Moorabool News July 18

Ballan ballet

By Lachlan Ellis

A Moorabool performing arts studio has plenty of silverware to show off this month, after stellar performances from its troupes and individual dancers in Warrnambool.

Students from Ballan’s Studio C Performing Arts headed to the Warrnambool Eisteddfod, which ran its Dance section from Monday 3 July to Sunday 9 July, with the studio winning multiple first, second, and third place medals.

First time competitor Alice won first place in the 6yrs & Under Novice Neo-Classical Solo and second in the Classical Ballet Solo, while fellow 6yrs & Under competitor Maisie came first in both the Classical Ballet Solo and Jazz Solo.

Other first place winners were Milly (Jazz Solo, Demi-Character Solo, and Neo-Classical Solo 8yrs & Under), Reina (Neo-Classical Solo 8yrs & Under Novice), Ella (Jazz Solo 14yrs & Under Novice), and Tilly (Lyrical Duo 12-14yrs with Ella).

Phoebe finished second in the 12yrs & Under Novice Jazz Solo, while Tilly finished third in the 14yrs & Under Novice Lyrical Solo, and Charlotte finished second in the Open Age Novice Contemporary Solo.

As for the troupes, both the Neo-Classical and Jazz Troupes from Studio C came first in the 12yrs & Under group, while the 13yrs & Over Contemporary Troupe finished third.

Studio C owner and director Charlotte Hamilton said she was beyond proud of the effort her students had put in, and the results they had achieved.

“I’m really pleased with how much work they’ve put in and how much they’ve progressed this year. They should be so proud of themselves. I think it’s a really wonderful accomplishment to perform on stage, and so great to also gain recognition for your achievements,” Ms Hamilton told the Moorabool News.

“The kids train every week, some take private lessons for their solo routines. In the

lead-up to competitions we have extra rehearsals. The commitment is so good. There were around 20 other schools competing from all over Victoria, from Ballarat, Ararat, some from Melbourne even and Geelong. So to see our girls do so well was amazing.”

Studio C ballerina Willow Arthur said being in her first competition was an exciting experience, and she hopes to compete again in the future.

“I think I was seven or eight [when I started ballet], and my best friend Rosa was doing ballet, so I started doing it with her. Miss Charlotte said I might be able to compete solo in the next competition or the one after that,” she said.

“I like being in a team, but I might try doing it on my own and see if I like it. I really enjoy it. It was really exciting being in the competition in Warrnambool…I’d done concerts before, but never competitions.”

Ms Arthur said “practicing a lot with timing” helped the Neo-Classical Troupe she was a part of win in their age group.

MAIN: dancers in white: Milly O’Hanlon, Willow Arthur

TOP : Neo Classical Troupe: Reina Borg, Ivy Damons, Milly O’Hanlon, Willow Arthur, Matilda Stewart, Imogen Borg.

BOTTOM: Jazz Troupe, Milly in a leg hold: Matilda S, Ivy D, Milly O, Reina B, Imogen B.

Photo – Studio C Performing Arts Ballan

ENTERTAINMENT IN THE WEST

EXHIBITION

Creating Positive Change Exhibition

28th July - 20th August

FAMILY FUN

The Ballan Arts Space

Mister Ants Slapstick Circus

TICKETS AVAILABLE VIA TRYBOOKING www.trybooking.com/CJRKQ

TICKETS:

Adults $10

Children $10 (Recommended for 3-6 year olds)

DATE:

Saturday 5th August 2023 at 11.30am

LOCATION: Sweet n Sassy (upstairs)

Shop 5, 22 Fisken Street, Ballan PH: 03 5368 2678

Moorabool one day, Queensland the next

By Tina Seirlis

For those who live in Moorabool it is widely known that the weather is a much-loved topic of conversation, perhaps even giving Melburnians a run for their money during winter. From painfully beautiful frosts, rain-shadows, and endless damp, Moorabool Shire certainly provides a never-ending source of weather-driven conversation.

For all of its beauty, including the charming morning mist over our vast farmlands, for some of us it is still hard to get past that chill in our bones as we layer up through to 10am, layer down until 3pm, and batten down the hatches after that.

This diverse climate experience begins with Long Forest on the eastern end, through to Leigh Creek in the west, and locals can either embrace it or leave it. During the rollercoaster

of COVID lockdowns, many locals and Victorians in general decided that the grass was greener in Queensland. Meantime city dwellers eagerly snapped up regional properties at never-before-seen top of the market prices. And while the exodus has slowed, apparently it hasn’t quite come to a complete stop.

According to one real estate agent in Bacchus Marsh, locals are still quietly slipping away to Queensland, heeding the call of endless sun, employment opportunities, and winters that never require a beanie or the annual shop for a new puffer jacket.

Josh Grieve of Rayner First National told the Moorabool News roughly five to ten percent of property sellers are looking to move up the coast, with a considerable amount more having it as a strong consideration.

“One reason for leaving that has consistently gained trac-

tion over the previous few years is moving up the coast. Most commonly Queensland,” he said.

“This includes young families looking for a lifestyle change, feedback has been based around more job security with remote working availability, and the demand for trades means appropriate compensation and job security. The other group seems to be retirees or nearly retired, people who may be able to work a part time job and don’t require steady work but prefer the climate of the warmer states up the coast.”

This sentiment is also reflected across other agencies. Steve Creese, Director of Arbee Real Estate said he can’t remember selling a home for anyone locally that was moving interstate except for Queensland.

“We see a mix of reasons that people are moving,” he said.

“The most recent instances that I can think of have been people moving for work purposes, they have received promotions or job opportunities in Queensland that were too good to refuse. The weather and lifestyle change are other positives for them. People are often concerned about leaving their friends and family, and it is normally the most difficult for children that have to move schools and leave their friends behind.”

While Moorabool is losing some locals to Queensland, the population is still going strong. This includes locals moving locally as young people move out and establish their own families, along with migration from cities and the western metropolitan area.

Mr Grieve concluded that the large attraction to the area is its country feel and ease of transport.

“We are located in a phenomenal geographical location in which we have direct access via freeway and train lines to Melbourne and Ballarat. This a large drawcard for people looking to get out of the city but still work there a few days a week,” he said.

“We are a beautifully connected area with a lot of diversity and whilst we are growing, we aren’t losing our country feel, which is why so many people love to call the Moorabool Shire their home.”

WHAT THE ABS SAYS

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, and for the year ending December 2022 the state of Victoria experienced a net interstate migration of -9995, only surpassed by NSW who experienced over three times the number of people exiting their state. During that same period, Queensland celebrated a net interstate migration gain of 34,545, followed by WA with 10,593, and SA with 670. All other states and territories experienced a decline.

In an interesting and somewhat circular twist identified via the Regional Movers Index for the year ending March 2023, Moorabool has overall experienced growth in net domestic migration, with Moorabool Shire identified as being within the Top 5 Regional Hotspot local government areas with the ‘greatest growth in net internal migration inflows’. Moorabool sits alongside Townsville, Port Lincoln, Campaspe and the Pyrenees, however our humble Shire also differs from its Victorian counterparts due to its migration inflows resulting from capital cities rather than other regional areas.

Concern over “misleading” tactics

By Lachlan Ellis

A farming lobby group has accused the national energy market operator of trying to pressure landowners into providing land access, for a divisive transmission line plan.

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) called on energy market operator AEMO to stop issuing “misleading information” to farmers, which its President Emma Germano says is designed to pressure them into signing away access to their land.

“The tactics used by AEMO to try and coerce farmers into signing away their rights is shameful and is yet another example of the way they have acted in bad faith with farming communities,” Ms Germano said.

“If the Victorian Government continues to allow for this sought of behaviour from AEMO, farmers won’t cooperate and there is no way that Victoria will be able to meet its renewable energy targets and keep the lights on.”

Ms Germano said AEMO had published statements suggesting it could use powers under legislation to force land access for surveying purposes, but it had not been provided the licence required by the Essential

Services Commission (ESC) to use these powers.

“The shell company AEMO has created to undertake this work called Transmission Company Victorian (TCV) does not have the power to force entry onto farmland at this time. AEMO and TCV have not been issued a licence by the ESC, and therefore have no ability force entry onto farms,” she said.

“Had AEMO and the Victorian Government engaged with farmers and communities in good faith from the start, we would not be seeing the widespread opposition to the proposed project. Farmers won’t let authorities run over the top of their rights and the Victorian Government has a responsibility to ensure that farmers are not taken advantage of.”

But Nicola Falcon from TCV says the company would rather work hand-in-hand with farmers than coerce them.

“New transmission built in the right places will play an important role in keeping the lights on for all Victorians. The right place for VNI West needs to be based both on the information we get from the community, and

the needs of electricity customers across Victoria,” Ms Falcon told the Moorabool News. “We will be talking to farmers to help work out where the project will be built and how farming and transmission can exist side by

side. When we need to build part of the line on a particular property, landholders will be fairly compensated. We also want to work with groups like the VFF, to make sure we are talking to the right people.”

Tax time scam warning

As tax season hits in Australia, it unfortunately also brings with it a surge in tax scams, and Aussies are being warned to stay vigilant to avoid falling victim to cybercrime.

In 2022–2023 alone, the ATO has reported receiving a staggering 19,843 allegations of scams, with impersonations of the organisation itself being the most frequent during tax season. As people gear up to file their taxes, it is anticipated that scam activity will continue to rise.

Farmers, lease your land for passive income

thorised access.

“In the wake of greater sophistication and a rise in AI that is aiding cybercriminals in evolving and developing their devious tactics, it is more important than ever that Australians are continuing to educate themselves on the warning signs,” he said.

Cyber safety company Norton – which blocked over 25 million threats in Australia from January to March alone –is urging Australians to be careful when filing tax returns, and has provided some handy tips.

Norton APAC managing director Mark Gorrie said tax time was an enticing time of year for cybercriminals.

“With the amount of personal and financial information that is being stored and shared at this time, coupled with the stress that comes with filing tax returns, it is the perfect storm for scammers to target Australians,” Mr Gorrie said. “Tax time can be difficult to navigate, and it can be easy to fall into the palm of a scammer offering to ease this burden. But it is important to understand that practising online security should never be sacrificed in exchange for convenience.”

Mr Gorrie shared three common example of tax scams: tax-related identity theft, ATO impersonation scams, and dodgy tax preparers.

Tax-related identity theft refers to cybercriminals accessing a victim’s account and impersonality them, fraudulently lodging refunds from the ATO using stolen information.

To avoid this, Mr Gorrie says it’s vital to keep your tax file number safe by shredding any documents with personal info before throwing them away, and protecting your online accounts such as your myGov account with strong passwords and two-factor authentication.

ATO impersonation scams are becoming particularly prevalent – these occur when scammers pose as ATO representatives or direct victims to legitimate-looking websites, which are designed to steal personal information.

Mr Gorrie says telltale signs of these scams include urgent threats - the ATO won’t use urgent threats, such as arrest, payment, or suspension of your TFN – and suspicious looking links. If you are contacted by phone, email, SMS, or post by someone claiming to be from the ATO and are unsure if they’re legitimate, the best thing to do is call the ATO directly to validate the request.

Finally, enticing offers from tax preparers offering large tax refunds can be tempting, but sometimes these so-called tax preparers seek access to their victims’ myGov accounts and lodge tax returns through the ATO’s myTax web portal, or take personal details and payment before disappearing.

Mr Gorrie says it’s also important to never share your myGov password with anyone, and that you should enable two-factor authentication on myGov to prevent unau-

You can check that anyone claiming to be a tax preparer is registered on the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) at www. tpb.gov.au/registrations_search.

Photo – Matt Forster, Unsplash

Lyla to celebrate 100 years

By Lachlan Ellis

She moved from the Mallee to Ballan 66 years ago, and a soonto-be 100-year-old woman is looking forward to celebrating the milestone with family and friends.

Lyla Geary (née Gleeson) was born on 13 August 1923 in Pira, a sandy wheat growing hamlet near Swan Hill, the second of seven children born to James and Susan Gleeson.

She’s seen many changes during her life, with some of the more notable being the advent of the washing machine replacing the scrubbing board, and the car replacing “our slow old horse”.

She acknowledges that life “has its ups and downs”, with the challenges she’s experienced including drought, mice plagues, and the sadness of the Second World War in her younger years – the latter of which she recalls as “a terrible time where each day you would scan the newspaper to see which of your friends wasn’t returning home”.

But despite the hard times, Ms Geary says her childhood was a happy one, and the happiest moments in her life have been having her four children, and marrying her husband Jack in 1948.

As many couples of their time did, Lyla and Jack met at a country dance, with Jack being from nearby Chillingollah. The two moved from the area in March 1957 with the four young kids.

“We didn’t have much [when I was a kid], very little in fact, but we were happy. We had one another,” she told the Moorabool News. “I never thought I’d make it to 100, I never really thought about it to be honest. My family have been marvellous to me.”

As for a secret to a long life, Ms Geary said there wasn’t anything in particular she’s done that might have contributed to the upcoming milestone, but living a “country lifestyle” and being strongly involved with the community may have helped.

Ms Geary has seven children, 11 grandchildren, and four great grandchildren, and says

Aged care handover

By Lachlan Ellis

Five aged care facilities, including one in Moorabool Shire, have been purchased by a not-for-profit, which has pledged a “smooth transition” for residents.

Aged care and retirement living service provider mecwacare announced on 4 July that it had purchased five facilities from Royal Freemasons including Susan Barton House in Bacchus Marsh, which will “allow mecwacare to serve even more seniors in need of aged care and retirement living options”.

mecwacare Chief Executive Michele Lewis said it was an exciting time, and the organisation would be working closely with staff, residents, and their families through the transition process.

“We have purchased the Freemason’s Bacchus Marsh aged care facility as part mecwacare’s expansion of aged care services across the whole of the Moorabool Shire corridor which includes Bacchus Marsh, Ballan and all the way to Ballarat. Our aim is to have staff across the region with continuity of care which includes Home Care packages,” Ms Lewis told the Moorabool News.

“We are delighted to welcome these facilities into the mecwacare family. We are committed to providing quality care and support to seniors in our community, and this acquisition will allow us to expand our services and reach even more individuals in need.”

Ms Lewis acknowledged that any takeover could be a worrying time, but said mecwacare was working to make the transition seamless.

“We understand that this may be a time of uncertainty and change for residents and their families. We are committed to making this transition as smooth as possible, and to providing high-quality care,” she said.

“There will be no changes to the Bacchus Marsh facility other than renaming the facility ‘mecwacare Susan Barton House’, and the addition of Home Care services.”

Also purchased by mecwacare were Berwick Brae Gardens, Gregory Lodge, Wahroonga Ballarat, and The Pines.

The organisation acknowledged the long history of providing quality care to seniors each facility has, and said it is “committed to maintaining the high standards of care and support that have been established at these facilities”.

mecwacare also runs Ballan District Health and Care, which it acquired in 2021.

“family is everything to me”.

“Having a family and watching them grow and teaching them to keep going, despite difficulties has always been important to Jack and I. When you have children, you need to encourage them and show a real interest yourself,” she said.

And show an interest she has over the years

– Ms Geary was Treasurer of the Ballan Tennis Club for 17 years and is a Life Member, was involved in St. Brigid’s Church groups and activities, undertook various roles at St. Brigid’s School Mother’s Club, is a member of St. Vincent De Paul, the local Care Group, and delivered Meals on Wheels for many years.

On Sunday 13 August, family and friends of Ms Geary will gather at an Open House celebration at the Ballan Golf Club from 2 to 5pm to celebrate her 100th birthday.

While she is far from the hot Mallee sun she grew up under, after being in Ballan for 66 years, Ms Geary now sees it as home.

Lyla Geary with a photo from her and Jack’s wedding, in 1948. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Susan Barton House is one of five aged care facilities recently purchased by mecwacare. Photo - Submitted

STOPIT marks one year in service

A new service to stamp out unwanted sexual behaviour on public transport has received more than 1500 notifications in its first year.

Text-based notification service ‘STOPIT’ launched on 11 July last year, to help combat sexual offending on public transport and give commuters greater confidence when they travel.

It’s the first service of its kind anywhere in Australia.

Victoria Police analysis shows more than 40 per cent of notifications to STOPIT related to threatening and offensive behaviour such as verbal abuse and harassment. Almost one in five notifications related to unwanted sexual behaviour.

This can include catcalling, sexual gestures, non-consensual touching, and flashing.

Since inception STOPIT has led to 13 arrests.

This includes:

• A 20-year-old man who was charged after performing allegedly explicit acts towards five women on a number of train lines between March and August last year. Police were able to link the incidents after one victim used STOPIT.

• A 51-year-old man charged with sexual assault after allegedly making inappropriate sexual comments and touching a woman at Southern Cross Station on 23 December last year.

• A 24-year-old man who was charged after performing allegedly explicit acts and making inappropriate sexual comments towards a woman on a city-bound Werribee line train on 11 November last year.

• A 44-year-old man who was charged with two counts of sexual activity directed at another after boarding a train at Clayton Railway Station on 25 October last year. A commuter took a photo of the incident and sent it to police using STOPIT. Police then linked the offender to a second incident.

• A 33-year-old man charged after two witnesses saw him allegedly perform an explicit act towards a woman on a citybound Sunbury line train on 6 September. Both witnesses notified police through STOPIT. The man was also charged with committing an indictable offence while on bail.

A number of separate notifications remain under investigation by detectives.

Women and girls have made up more than half of people using STOPIT, with all notifications reviewed and assessed by a dedicated team of transit police.

Many are then escalated to detectives at the Transit Crime Investigation Unit for investigation.

Information received also gives police a broader picture about behaviour across the public transport network, be it a particular train line or time of day.

It means deployment of transit police is intelligence-led.

Inspector Mark Zervaas from the Transit Safety Division thanked everyone who had used STOPIT over the last 12 months.

“Every piece of information received has helped us make the network a safer place for all commuters. Without STOPIT, more than a dozen investigations may have never been solved,” Mr Zervaas said.

“These offenders have now been charged and put through the courts – all thanks to commuters who have stood up to this type of behaviour. We encourage all commuters to save the number in your phone and text STOPIT if you experience or see unwanted sexual behaviour on the network.

“Your information could be the final piece of the puzzle we need to arrest an offender.”

To use the service commuters simply text ‘STOPIT’ to 0499 455 455.

The service is not monitored live and should not be used if an urgent response is required.

For further information go to https://www.police.vic.gov. au/stopit.

Farmers seek answers over missing disaster funds

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is demanding answers over the Victorian Government’s refusal to help local government councils impacted by the 2022 flood events across the state.

In a letter to Premier Daniel Andrews, VFF President Emma Germano questioned why the Victorian Government decided not to take up fast-tracked funding from the Commonwealth’s $1.8 billion Disaster Relief Funding Arrangements.

“The 2022 floods had disastrous impacts on regional communities and agricultural production.”

“The VFF has expressed its disappointment to the Premier following Victoria’s decision not to take up funding to help local government rebuild infrastructure that farming communities depend on,” Ms Germano said.

“We have sought clarification from the government as to their reasons for not taking up the funding opportunity, and how the government intends to provide

immediate assistance to flood impacted councils.”

Ms Germano said farmers and local government councils were particularly frustrated with the lack of action on fixing damaged roads.

“The VFF has held discussions with representatives from local government across northern Victoria who are desperately concerned by the lack of support being provided to them to fix critical infrastructure, such as the regional road network.

“The Victorian Government’s inability to provide funding to these councils will only further hamper and delay recovery.”

Ms Germano said this inability placed additional burden on farmers and freight transporters, increasing their costs and impacting food affordability.

“Victorian farmers are crying out for the government to take action and deliver immediate and meaningful funding to the local government sector in the aftermath of the floods,” she said.

STOPIT has led to 13 arrests since being launched on 11 July last year. Photo – Victoria Police

Car thefts and burgs, man arrested

Police have arrested and charged a man in relation to a string of burglaries, and motor vehicle thefts across Western Victoria. Detectives from the Western Region Crime Squad believe the crime spree occurred over the last three weeks in locations including Bacchus Marsh, Ballarat, Geelong, and Werribee.

A police spokesperson said the investigation came to a head on Thursday 6 July, after police located an alleged stolen Nissan Navara travelling between Geelong and Werribee.

“Police Air Wing tracked the man travelling in the alleged stolen vehicle, before it came to a stop at a Werribee south address. The man was arrested, and the stolen vehicle was recovered by police.”

Police also allege that the man stole a Toyota Hilux from Mount Wallace and a Nissan Patrol from Bacchus Marsh.

“The Toyota Hilux was recovered by police while the Nissan Patrol remains outstanding,” the spokesperson said. “Detectives later conducted a search warrant at an address in Tarneit, recovering three stolen vehicles and two stolen box trailers.”

A 27-year-old Bowenvale (near Maryborough) man is facing 25 charges including: aggravated burglary, burglaries, theft of motor vehicles, theft and conduct endangering persons. He was remanded to appear at Geelong Magistrates Court on 7 August 2023.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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Published by Helen Tatchell, 15 Haddon Dv, Ballan, 3342 for The Ballan News Pty Ltd, 15 Haddon Drive, Ballan, 3342. 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.

By Tina Seirlis

It’s that time of the year that many of us love or loathe. For some it generates feelings of confusion, anxiety, escalating perspiration. An envisioned shadow over the shoulder, watching your every move, every expense, every kilometre. For others there is that joyous and slim feeling of hope and glass half full optimism, much akin to holding a lotto ticket and mentally having spent the winnings, identifying which friends and relatives will benefit from instant financial success paired with overwhelming generosity.

High steaks in community award

By Lachlan Ellis

A local business has been nominated for a Victorian Community Achievement Award, and the owner says he’s feeling hopeful about their chances of winning.

The Ballan Local Butcher has been nominated under the Connecting Communities category, and owner Shane Zammit said it was exciting to be in the running.

“We’re over the moon, we’re pretty chuffed. It’s only early days, we want to take the award out, but we can appreciate the value of being nominated. It’s really good. There are a few other nominees, but we’re optimistic about our chances for sure,” Mr Zammit told the Moorabool News.

“Running a family business in Ballan has been good. There have been challenges at every corner, especially over the COVID period by having a retail business, but also in going through the evolution from a small family business into something more substantial. Although we are a family business, there’s a lot of corporate structure that’s had to be developed and incorporated into how we operate.”

The business is closely connected with the community, collaborating with other local businesses and supporting sporting clubs, schools, and charity groups, including the Ballan, Myrniong and Gordon Primary Schools, and the local Scouts.

It currently employs 17 staff, and uses its own family-farmed, locally grown lamb all year round.

Judging for the Victorian Community Achievement Awards will take place throughout October, with winners to be announced on Friday 1 December at the 2023 Community Achievement Awards Presentation Dinner.

A taxing time Bad luck for biker

By Lachlan Ellis

A motorcycle rider caught speeding in Bacchus Marsh said he wasn’t fully aware of the capabilities of the sport mode on his bike, but admitted that was no excuse.

And down the middle there are the rest of us. Those who plod along each year, working and making a living, paying the escalating mortgage interest and utility bills, revising supermarket expenditure, and making sure we’ve dotted the i’s and crossed the t’s in preparation for our tax returns. And now that we have well and truly crossed into the new financial year, it’s time to start preparing. The Moorabool News spoke with Sue Forte from Seek Accounting services in Ballan to uncover the latest updates and tips. Sue says the ATO is doing some things differently this year that individuals need to be aware of.

“The ATO has discontinued the low to middle income tax offset this year which will reduce most taxpayer refunds by $1500,” she said.

“The working from home claims have also changed and people need to be aware of the new rates and rules. They also need to have very accurate records of hours worked from home, as estimates are not enough.”

Ms Forte said it’s really important to keep accurate records and all receipts.

“Any sales of cryptocurrency also need to be reported in your tax return.”

There are also many common mistakes that can result in individuals and business operators coming up on the ATO’s radar. According to Ms Forte these include: • individuals claiming motor vehicle costs when they are

not actually using the car for a genuine work purpose.

• or, if people claim their mobile phone without evidence of percentage use for business purposes.

• Investors with rental properties need to apportion the interest claim correctly, particularly if they have redrawn on the loan for personal use. They will need to be able to calculate only the interest that relates to the rental property.

There have also been recent changes to the self-education expenses with the $250 non-deductible threshold removed for the 2022-23 income year.

For small business operators Ms Forte says, “an important factor coming into the new financial year is to note that from 1 July 2023, the instant asset write off has been reduced to just $20,000, from its previous value of $150,000”.

For more information in preparation for tax time, visit www.ato.gov.au

Chad Dezwart appeared at the Bacchus Marsh Magistrates Court on Friday 14 July, charged with speeding at more than 25 kilometres an hour over the limit, but below 35 kilometres an hour over.

Mr Dezwart said the day of the offence was the first day he’d owned the motorbike he was riding.

“It was day one of owning that bike…switching from one mode to the next, that was first gear, and 2.7 seconds to 100 kilometres an hour. There’s no excuse for it, I was in a remote area and got done,” Mr Dezwart said.

“It was a spike, then I slowed down. It had been in standard mode all day, that was the first instance I’d engaged it over to sport mode.”

Police Prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Justin Smith said Mr Dezwart had been caught at 30 kilometres and hour over the speed limit.

“26 July 2020, 5.38 pm, police observed the accused driving a Honda motorbike southeast direction along Lees Road in Bacchus Marsh. Police estimated he was driving at about 130 kilometres an hour. They used a prescribed speed detector, and detected the speed being 130 kilometres an hour in a 100 kilometre an hour zone. Police then issued an infringement notice to the accused,” LSC Smith said.

“It does have a mandatory [licence suspension] period of three months.”

Mr Dezwart entered a guilty plea, stating he should’ve known the capabilities of the bike before using the sport mode on the road.

“What I’m going to do is ask you to make a promise for six months. That promise is to be of good behaviour, don’t get in trouble with the police. Do you make that promise?” Magistrate Guillaume Bailin said.

“I promise,” Mr Dezwart said.

On top of the promise of good behaviour, Mr Dezwart also received the minimum suspension period of three months.

The Ballan Local Butcher was previously the recipient of the Ballan & District Chamber of Commerce’s Business of the Year Award in 2019.

Ballan Local Butcher owner Shane Zammit is “optimistic” about the business’ chance of winning an award in December. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

Photo by Elisa Ventur on Unsplash

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor,

Regional drivers are forced to drive on crumbling roads, but life only gets harder under this Labor government, as motor costs continue to rise and road maintenance continues to be neglected.

Labor’s incompetence has left Victorians broke, continuing to punish families with another rise in motor costs.

Families continue to be slugged, with the cost of car registration and licence fees rising for another year. Regional Victorians will now have to find almost $850 in the household budget to register the family car.

Victorian road users are paying more for less, with the Andrews Labor Government slashing their road maintenance funding by 45 per cent since 2020.

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) will be raided by Labor, again, which puts vital road safety initiatives and accident responses at risk to balance the government’s budget.

With car fees increasing despite our roads deteriorating, the cost of living only gets tougher for hardworking Victorians.

Labor is unwilling to fix our roads but continues to hammer Victorian road users with price increases. Bad roads are dangerous roads, which sadly the Andrews Labor Government refuses to address, with more than 150 tragic deaths in 2023 - 30 per cent more than this time last year.

Managing Director of road surfacing company VSA Roads, Justin Bartlett, said they have witnessed a massive deterioration of Victorian roads since 2022.

He says, “our rural main road and highway network has quickly become one that resembles a patchwork quilt with short-term quick fixes becoming the norm … the decision to cut off all funding defies any logic.’’

While Labor refuses to properly maintain our roads, Daniel Andrews and Jacinta Allan are happy to send Victorian road users higher bills to use dodgy roads riddled with potholes.

Peter Walsh MP, Leader of The Nationals

Weaving Wadawurrung history

By Lachlan Ellis

A new exhibition from a local artist is tying traditional Indigenous practices with contemporary styles, while expressing the artist’s connection to Country and ancestry.

Gordon’s Tammy Gilson is an award-winning weaver whose lineage is linked to basket weavers through both her Wadawurrung and English heritage – and her ‘Beenyak’ (Basket) exhibition at the Art Gallery of Ballarat is showing that heritage to the world.

Ms Gilson said it took around six months to put the exhibition together, which including not only creating the woven items and adornments that are on display, but researching and speaking with elders on weaving techniques and meanings.

“What I’ve created is some traditional plus contemporary designs, sort of based on Lake Burrumbeet. There’s a fish trap system on the lake bed, I’ve made some eel traps, including one big one that’s more a contemporary design. I took some design elements I learned through the Blak Design program at the Koorie Heritage Trust, and sort of brought those elements into it as well,” Ms Gilson told the Moorabool News.

“For instance, one of the adornment pieces has a lost wax silver casting pendant on it. I made that out of wax and printed it into one of the woven earrings I made. There’s also a beautiful basket that’s a reference to one of the old Aunties’ baskets from the Von Stieglitz collection. I created pieces that showcase me as a Wadawurrung woman, giving me identity…the pieces all speak for themselves and have their own story. I’ve named them in Wadawurrung language as well.”

When asked which piece she was most proud of, Ms Gilson said it had to be the ‘Babarrang’ basket.

“I really love the big basket, Babarrang, which is our word for aunty. I really love that recreation, because that [original] basket is currently situated in the Ulster Museum in Northern Ireland. What I’ve created really are artifacts, with some being more traditional and some being more contemporary,” she said.

The Beenyak exhibition opened on Thursday 29 June, and finishes on Sunday 13 August.

Ms Gilson thanked curator Kiri Smart for her work in helping to prepare the exhibition.

Search for a coach

By Matt Romania

Two new Head Coaches are being sought by the Bacchus Marsh Basketball Association, for their Women’s and Men’s CBL Teams for the 2023/24 season.

Despite a healthy turnout of applicants, the club is keeping its doors open for potential candidates who can bring the right blend of experience and community spirit.

This is a unique opportunity to join an ambitious club committed to community connection and player development, with the coaching positions being advertised for the Country Basketball League (CBL), a senior representative level basketball league. The Bacchus Marsh club aims to attract applicants who have prior experience coaching at a senior level.

Wayne Slack, the Club’s President explains the coaches’ role as more than simply guiding a team on the court.

“What we’re looking to achieve is a stepping-stone for our youth in Bacchus Marsh. We need coaches who can contribute to this vision, helping players transition from under-18 basketball to higher leagues like Big V and Youth League,” he told the Moorabool News.

The Club is hopeful that the right coaches can help bridge the gap for local players.

“We’re trying to provide a pathway for those who want to continue to play after aging out of junior divisions,” he explained, adding that the goal is to give these players “something to aim for rather than having to turn around.”

Supporting the new coaches will be a priority for the Bacchus Marsh Basketball Club.

Mr Slack said they provide assistant coaches from our internal panels, a team manager, and a coaching coordinator.

“The aim is to ensure consistency and smooth player development.”

He also noted that the incoming coaches would be expected to contribute to the club by running coaching clinics, player improvement clinics, and fostering goodwill towards the CBL program.

The Bacchus Marsh Basketball Association, established 11 years ago currently boasts around a 1000 members. Exciting developments are on the horizon for the club, including a new stadium due for completion by year-end. This facility will provide a central hub for the association and support the club’s next phase of growth.

More information about the club and coaching opportunities can be found at https://www.bacchusmarshbasketball.com.au

From the BMBA CBL Lions 2022/23 season Photo creditJulie Hass

Creativity celebrated

By Matt Romania

In a vibrant celebration of youthful creativity, the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall transformed into a pop-up art gallery on Friday, June 16, 2023. The event marked the grand showcase of the Youth Art Competition, which gathered young artists aged between 12 and 25 from across the Moorabool Shire.

The Youth Art Awards attracted entries across a diverse range of mediums, underscoring the artistic spirit among Moorabool’s youth. Jaxon Giofches, 12-year-old artist from Gordon, was among the talented young individuals awarded.

“I was really shocked and excited to win the award, it has inspired me to enter more competitions with my artwork,” Jaxon told The Moorabool News.

The competition’s judging criteria focused on the impact and storytelling of the artwork, composition and technical skills, design and style, and the use of light, color, and shading.

The vibrant and diverse collection of art pieces presented a spectacle on the awards night. However, the honor of having artwork displayed at the Lerderderg Library in Bacchus Marsh was reserved for the winners.

The works were showcased from Saturday, June 17 to Saturday, June 24, providing a week-long opportunity for the broader community to appreciate the impressive artistic talent brewing in Moorabool’s youth.

And the winners are...

Indeya Phillips

Olivia Baumann

Jai Pilbeam

Lily Norman Madison Borg

Kelly Joyner

Jaxon Giofches

Connor Hughes

Laura McIntyre

“I love drawing things that catch your eye” - Jaxon, 12, received a Moorabool Youth Art Award (Photo - Supplied)

Tool thieves costing millions

By Matt Romania

The issue of tool theft in Victoria has become a scourge, costing the state’s tradespeople a staggering $20 million over the past year. The Crime Statistics Agency reports an alarming 29,000 tools stolen leading up to March 2023, underscoring the significant financial blow to individual workers and the crippling impact on productivity until replacements can be secured or vehicles repaired.

Ballan tradie Will Greenock fell victim to such a crime recently. His work truck was broken into recently, lockboxes tampered with, and some of his tools removed. The brazen thieves caused such damage that he can no longer access two of his toolboxes, disrupting his work and jeopardising his livelihood. To add insult to injury, the thieves discarded welding equipment worth thousands of dollars in the rain.

Speaking to the Moorabool News, Mr Greenock remarked, “It’s more than just an inconvenience,” emphasising the ripple effect such incidents have on a tradie’s productivity, morale, and the need to enhance security measures.

“At the end of the day, my priority is getting it sorted, so I can get back on the job. But when stuff like this happens, it makes it really hard. It’s tough”, he said.

Responding to this escalating issue, the RACV is urging tradespeople to ensure they’re adopting practical measures to safeguard their tools against theft.

“Store tools in a heavy-duty truck bed or portable toolbox with a strong padlock. If your toolbox is portable, fix it to your vehicle with a hardened steel security chain,” Darren Turner, RACV General Manager Home Portfolio said.

Council Mee�ng

Moorabool Shire Council

Commi�ee Mee�ng

The RACV also recommends the use of small GPS trackers on high-value tools.

“This solution allows owners to monitor the live location of their tools via a smartphone app, providing real-time updates, peace of mind and something to give to Police,” Mr Turner said.

“Clearly marking or engraving your ID details on tools will make them much harder for thieves to resell, easier for you to report and recover, and more likely to discourage theft in the first place.”

Keeping a detailed inventory of tool makes, models, and serial numbers, ensuring the declared value is accurate, and maintaining clear photographs of your tools can also speed up recovery efforts if tools are stolen. As Mr Greenock has discovered, even the added protection of adding his name to the welding helmets is not foolproof but remains a part of the broader effort to protect valuable tools.

Navigators Community Centre Incorporated Public Mee�ng

Council Mee�ng

The next Ordinary Mee�ng of Council will be held Wednesday 2 August, at 6pm 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 Public Mee�ng

Employment

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

• Youth Development Officer – Full-Time Permanent Based at Darley

• Youth Development Officer – Full-Time Fixed-Term Based at Darley

Employment Tenders Have Your Say: Female Friendly Strategy

• CALD

•

Planning Permit

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

•

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

Ballan resident and tradie, Will Greenock (Photo – The Moorabool News)

Community grants open soon

A Moorabool Shire Council grants program is opening for applications in two weeks, and workshops are on offer to perfect your application.

Council’s Community Grants Program will open to local non-profit organisations between 1 - 31 August, with a pool of over $270,000 on offer for projects that benefit the Moorabool community.

Past recipients The Pentland Hills Landcare Group have received a $3,000 grant under the program, as part of their ‘Myrniong Wildlife Corridor’ project.

The project included a large planting of native trees and shrubs, and installation of educational wildlife signage at the Myrniong Recreation Reserve, and the Landcare Group plan to create an intergenerational connection through the project, engaging the help of staff and students from Myrniong Primary School with the tree planting.

President of the Pentland Hills Landcare Group, Alan Morton, said the grant was helping the group with its mission to encourage awareness and protection of the local landscape and wildlife.

“We have the opportunity to teach local children about the environment and encourage our local young people to be hands on in creating an area for future benefit to our bird life as well as activating our community reserve,” Mr Morton said.

“Planting of the new small shrubs and ground covers will with time attract a wide range of birds and hopefully, butterflies, small bees and insects.”

Moorabool Shire Mayor Cr Rod Ward urged local non-profit groups like the Pentland Hills Landcare Group to put apply for Community Grants funding, so Council can help bring their fantastic plans to fruition.

“Are you part of a community group looking for some extra funding for a great new project in the Shire? Our Community Grants Program might be able to help, with over $270,000 available this year,” Cr Ward said.

“Bacchus Marsh Platypus Alliance received funding via our

Arts and Culture funding stream last year for a fabulous mural. So why not give it a go?”

Two online Grant Writing Workshops will be held on Wednesday 19 July and Tuesday 1 August, both from 6pm –7pm on Microsoft Teams.

Two in-person drop-in sessions will also be held for appli-

What’s next for native garden?

By Matt Romania

The Darley Native Garden is a beautiful example of Australian native botanical species

Anna Beddoe of the Darley Gardners Group said there is always something stunning flowering throughout the year and it’s best appreciated if visited regularly.

“The garden is a fantastic local educational resource for discussing plant tolerance under harsh Australian climatic conditions, demonstrating water sensitive urban design in landscapes, native plant diversity and habitat for birds, bugs and reptiles.”

Faced with the prospect of current members retiring from their duties in the next four to five years, the garden group has developed a refreshed management plan. Over the next 6-12 months, the community can expect to see notable changes at the native garden.

“We hope that with more exposure and more funding, we will be able to secure more volunteers in the near future who are prepared to make a long-term commitment to helping to maintain the gardens,” Ms Beddoe said.

In a collaborative effort with the Moorabool Shire Council, the garden’s bed retainers are being replaced, keeping paths clear of plant debris, and signage updated. Furthermore, an arborist’s report will

be commissioned to assess the health of mature trees in the park, including the Eucalyptus erythrocorys, commonly known as Red-Capped Gum or Illyarrie.

For those keen to lend a hand in this community endeavor, the Darley Gardeners Group can be contacted via Instagram, or by calling Anna Beddoe (0488 176 577) or Andy Whiteley (5367 2616). The group plans to set up a marquee at Darley Market days, starting in September 2023, where interested individuals can learn more about volunteering and the garden’s treasures.

“The Darley Park Native Garden can benefit community members’ mental health and well-being if visited and enjoyed often”, Ms Beddoe said.

The garden is free to visit and is open to the community seven days a week and, is located on the corner of Fitzroy St and Raglan St, Darley.

cants to discuss their projects with staff. The sessions are free but require bookings, and will be held from 9am – 5pm on Friday 4 August at Council’s Ballan Office, and from 9am –5pm on Wednesday 9 August at Lerderderg Library. For more information and to book a workshop or drop-in session, visit moorabool.vic.gov.au/CommunityGrants.

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor,

Just this week a trip into the country vividly brought into focus the state of Victorian, and of course our district’s roads.

Parwan Road between East Maddingley Road and the railway crossing is an absolute disgrace with at least half the south side of the road being in an unusable state for well over 12 months. Just this week I noticed a car swerve into the centre of the road to avoid the broken surface, and nearly hit another car head on.

So now we cross over the railway line hoping that the roundabout will be clear so cars won’t be stuck on the railway line in the path of oncoming trains. School times exacerbate this problem with buses, cars and trains in an unholy mix of ‘traffic lotto’ with cars waiting to turn right into South Maddingley Road, blocking the crossing, holding up incoming and outgoing traffic on Parwan Road, and let’s not forget those people trying to go around the roundabout to travel up Griffiths Street.

However, we do negotiate this pending road traffic disaster and travel down Grant Street, contending with double sand trucks, wheat trucks, and rubbish trucks.

By the way what was the ginormous rubbish truck doing in Grant Street at school time with the City of Knox emblazoned on its side?

So back to Grant Street, on both sides of the road there are several large areas of broken asphalt with their indentations getting deeper and deeper, and longer and longer as the months go past.

Any engineer worth their salt knows that once the surface of the asphalt is broken it is letting in moisture and undermining the subsurface and causing more damage to both the road and the vehicles that use it.

You can’t swerve to miss these holes so you drive over them doing untold damage to tyres and suspensions, hopefully whilst you are still able to negotiate the traffic around you.

Once out onto the Western Highway the problem becomes even more dangerous because you are negotiating these hundreds and hundreds of potholes and indentations, at 100kms per hour plus.

Both sides of the Highway are the same, it is so dangerous, and this time of the year increases the risk exponentially.

So please, speak to your local Councillors or put in a complaint to Vic Roads before we have a catastrophic traffic accident and point out to them that putting up signs that announce there is rough road ahead, DOES NOT fix the problem.

Jan Lowe Maddingley

Moorabool Shire Mayor Cr Rod Ward is inviting community groups to give applying for a grant a go. Photo – Moorabool Shire Council

Don’t ask Google...

OPTOMETRY Q.

Common Contact Lens Questions:

A.

Children should be flossing their teeth as soon as they are able to. From the ages of 2-3 years most of the baby teeth have come out so food and plaque can easily get stuck in between the teeth. Teeth with large gaps can be cleaned with a toothbrush alone but teeth close together cannot. Of course, at this age mum and/or dad will need to help them floss. If your child doesn’t like string floss, they can use interdental brushes or flossettes instead.

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CONVEYANCING

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What is an eCT?In simple terms, an eCT is an electronic Certificate of Title.

All of the major banks and Land Victoria commenced replacing paper Certificates of Title with electronic Certificates of Title in September 2016 in line with electronic conveyancing guidelines.

Since then thousands of certificates of title have been converted to electronic titles when they have been lodged at Land Victoria for the registration of a dealing, i.e. a transfer of the land, mortgage, etc. This has the advantage of titles no longer being misplaced, lost, or destroyed and they can easily be traced back to the CT Controller.

CASA CONVEYANCING

Contact JASMINE VAGHERA today: info@casaconveyancing.com.au

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HEALTH Q.

Why is Exercise important for Osteoarthritis?

Q. Does wearing contact lenses hurt?

A. Your contacts should not hurt when applied correctly.

What age should my child start flossing?Q. What does wearing Contact Lenses feel like?

A. Strange at first, but you will adjust to them quickly.

Q. Are they difficult to put in?

A. Yes, but only at first. As part of your consultation we will teach you how to insert and remove them and you will be given a free pair to trial.

Q. What are the best Contact Lenses for sport?

A. Our Optometrist will help you find what will work for you.

Kirstie Shanahan (Practice Manager)

Darryl Wilson Optometrist by George & Matilda Eyecare bacchusmarsh@georgeandmatilda.com.au

ph. (03) 5367 4944 • 21 Grant Street Bacchus Marsh

At what age can a child travel in the front seat?

Any child aged 7 years or over can travel in Victoria without a booster seat in either the back or the front seat of a car. But this is not to be recommended. An adult lap-sash seatbelt is designed for people with a minimum height of 145 cm, therefore in order to prevent children from sustaining serious abdominal and chest injuries in a crash, a booster seat should be used.

A. GRAINGER LEGAL Contact Laura Paterson today: info@graingerlegal.com.au • ph. 5303 0250 105 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh, VIC 3340

REAL ESTATE Q. Should I wait until Spring to list my home?

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Osteoarthritis is a disease that affects the whole joint. The cartilage on ends of bones change’s structure & can become thin over time. Exercise can help with regeneration of the cartilage. A guided exercise program helps to improve joint range & stability to help us move better.

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Community football to ‘band together’

Victoria’s football and netball communities will rally behind road safety this week, donning blue armbands to honour people killed on Victorian roads and show a commitment to reducing road trauma.

The fourth annual TAC & AFL Victoria Road Safety Round will run statewide July 21 -23, seeing thousands of people from country and suburban football and netball leagues ‘Band Together’, wearing blue armbands to honour all lives impacted by road trauma and to promote road safety.

Players, coaches, volunteers and supporters from more than 1000 AFL Victoria-affiliated clubs will wear the bespoke armband, which features a QR code linking people to an online hub of stories from people impacted by road trauma: www.tac.vic.gov.au/road-safety/band-together/band-together.

This year, 165 people have been tragically killed on Victorian roads – a 28 per cent increase on the 129 lives lost at this time in 2022.

Road deaths in regional areas are a continued concern, with 94 fatalities this year compared to 73 at the same time in 2022. The number of people aged 21-to-39 who have died on the roads has risen by more than 20.

The TAC and AFL Victoria’s Road Safety Round provides the perfect platform to speak directly to the thousands of Victorians travelling hundreds of kilometres on the state’s roads for games and training every year.

“Victorian football and netball clubs are often at the centre of their communities and we are proud of the way Road Safety Round is embraced by the clubs, and how it empowers players and members to have life-saving road safety conversations with their peers,” TAC CEO Tracey Slatter said.

“Any life lost on Victorian roads is one too many. The impact of these tragedies on local communities across our state is devastating,” Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne added.

“Road Safety Round is an opportunity for clubs to honour those impacted by road trauma and have important conversations with their members about the role they play in keeping our roads safe.”

Road Safety Round is just one aspect of the TAC’s long-standing partnership with AFL Victoria, with the TAC Club Rewards Program offering clubs up to $10,000 for their efforts in promoting safe driving behaviours throughout the season.

Former Western Bulldog Mitch Wallis (centre), who now plays community footy, will wear a blue arm band for his mother-in-law Katie, who passed away after being struck by a car in 2022. Photo – TAC

Cause raises serious coin

By Lachlan Ellis

The coins have been counted for a local fundraiser, and over $10,000 has been raised to keep those less fortunate warm this winter.

Local foundation Bacchus Up to Pay it Forward (BUTPIF) ran the ‘Coin for a Cause’ program over 31 days from March to April this year, asking local businesses to either donate a portion of their sales to the cause, or make a direct donation.

39 businesses took up the call, with retail businesses donating between 50 cents to $1 from their sales over the 31 days, or making direct donations in the case of non-retail businesses like real estate agents.

A sausage sizzle and a movie night were also held to raise funds, thanks to the support of the Bacchus Marsh Community Bank Branch and Urban Markets.

In total, $10,500 was raised, which meant 120 blanket-style hoodies, thermal blankets, thermal gloves, thermal beanies, and thermal socks were able to be bought by BUTPIF and put in ‘cosy packs’, for people who are homeless, elderly, or escaping domestic violence.

BUTPIF founder Judy D’Attoma said it was a fantastic result from local businesses and their customers.

“It was hospitality businesses that got involved mainly, but also some other retail businesses and real estate. They’d donate a dollar a sale for the day, and we promoted them on the BUTPIF Facebook page. We were also able to promote them on Apple FM, letting people know they were fundraising and encouraging people to go there,” she told the Moorabool News.

“It’s been a great effort from businesses and the community I feel, the community helping keep the community warm really.”

Ms D’Attoma joked that her house “looked a bit like a sweatshop” with all the hoodies and blankets in it, but that they were now being distributed to those who need them.

“There’s three organisations distributing them in the cosy packs. We’ve already got a few businesses who want to come on board if we do it again next year which it looks like we will, it’s been quite successful,” she said.

“Next year we’ll run the movie screening a bit differently, we’ll run it alongside a market and have a bit more happening. And we’re going to do it during the day.”

For more information on the work done by BUTPIF, visit the Bacchus Up to Pay it Forward Facebook page, or head to www. butpif.org.au.

Bill Hawken is the owner of Bacchus Marsh Farm Supplies, which raised $250 for Coin for a Cause to help keep those in need warm this winter. Photo – Lachlan Ellis

New spearhead for tourism

Its aim is to position the region as one of Victoria’s premier tourism destinations, showcasing its unique attractions, rich history, and vibrant community.

In another pivotal announcement, TMV is pleased to confirm the appointment of the Honourable John Pandazopoulos as its inaugural and independent Chair following a rigorous and transparent recruitment process.

Mr Pandazopoulos has more than 30 years public sector experience as a Member of Parliament, State Minister, Mayor, and Board Member of Statutory Corporations developing, advocating and implementing public policy and investment.

Mr Pandazopoulos has officially taken the helm of the TMV board and will be charged with providing the organisation with leadership and governance, and oversight of the strategic operations.

Mr Pandazopoulos said he was looking forward to helping promote the unique experiences and culture of regional Victoria.

“For me, regional tourism is the essence of what Victoria is. People know about Melbourne, but it is the diversity of the people and places that exist across regional Victoria that shape the quintessential Victorian experience,” he said.

ingness to do more for its visitors. Let’s roll up our sleeves and build this new entity together to ensure Midwest Victoria’s tourism businesses have the ultimate chance of success,” he said.

TMV’s board will have strong regional representation, including five Industry Partner Directors representing different skills, experiences, and backgrounds; and five CEOs or authorised delegates from the relevant councils. A state government representative will observe the board. TMV’s dual announcement comes in response to the Victorian Government’s plans to transition Victoria’s existing Regional Tourism Boards (RTB) to a new network of Visitor Economy Partnerships (VEPs). VEPs are the result of the government’s Regional Tourism Review and Visitor Economy Recovery and Reform Plan, which provides actions to address challenges and opportunities within the regional tourism market.

VEPs aim to enhance and strengthen boards so each entity has the structure, resources, strategy and scale to perform its role.

Key TMV deliverables include a Destination Management Plan (DMP), which will be a critical seven-year strategic plan for the region.

The DMP will deliver actions to support the tourism industry’s continued recovery from the pandemic and help build resilience.

Tourism Midwest Victoria (TMV) revealed its plans on Monday to launch as a groundbreaking partnership between industry, and local and state governments, to boost regional visitation.

As Midwest Victoria’s new peak tourism body, TMV will be focused on driving visitation to the City of Ballarat and the Pyrenees, Moorabool, Golden Plains, and Hepburn shires.

“Just look at Midwest Victoria – I see the region as a core part of Australia’s story. These lands have been nurtured and cared for by many First Nations communities and we continue to learn from their resilience and creativity. The region is also recognised as one of Victoria’s better known foodie meccas, with a long history of culture and crafts which continues to be shaped by the many talented chefs, producers, creatives and smart businesspeople operating across all five LGAs.”

Mr Pandazopoulos believes the new VEP model will provide Midwest Victoria with “an opportunity to create something that transforms and captures the broader region”.

“After all, tourism is about sharing the places we love and cherish with others. This is a welcoming region, with a will-

The City of Ballarat’s Visitor Economy Unit will resource the operational work of TMV, and Executive Manager Visitor Economy Sarah Pilgrim will continue to oversee the operations.

The Victoria Government’s new VEP network means TMV will be fiscally supported through a combination of state government funding, local government budget cycles of the partner councils, and industry partner contributions.

Tourism and hospitality businesses in Midwest Victoria are being urged to sign up as TMV Industry Partners to access vital information, support and opportunities with no initial membership subscription cost.

To stay up to date on TMV news, follow Tourism Midwest Victoria on LinkedIn, or visit www.tourismmidwestvic.com. au.

The Bacchus Marsh Express

Bacchus Marsh & District Historical Society Inc / Victorian Heritage Register National Trust

The Bacchus Marsh Express was founded by George Lane, a book binder and the first issue was published on 7th July 1866. The second edition was published by the Bacchus Marsh Express Printing Co., which consisted of Dr. Rae (editor), Rev James Scott, John Saunders, James E Crook, James Young, William Watson and George Lane (printer). This syndicate failed after 3 months and the ownership was then taken up by Lane and Christopher Crisp, an Englishman who had been employed as a compositor by the company. Crisp was the editor of the Express from 1866 till his death in 1915 when he was succeeded by his son, Christopher, till 1932 and his grandson, FCM. Crisp, thereafter

George Lane remained as the printer until his death in November 1899. Under Crisp’s direction, the Express widened its readership and was subscribed to by public men and civil servants in Melbourne. In the 1870s Crisp argued for the extension of government responsibilities as a basis for social and political progress. In the 1880s Alfred Deakin and James Service acknowledged the influence of the Express on their legislative thinking and its proposals for federation were debated during the drafting of the Federal Constitution in 1895-98. Crisp’s comments during the drafting stages of the Federal Constitution in 189598 were valued by several convention delegates.

George Lane established his printing works sometime between 1860-66. The original

shop, constructed of hand-made bricks with a gabled shingle roof with a pair of skylights, remains at the rear of the existing property. Between 1868 and 1876 this building was added to at the front of a two-storey brick shop front with a rendered facade and a gabled corrugated iron roof. The building had two sash windows above and a large shop window and double glazed doors below. It is believed that the doors were taken from Leahy’s Farmers Arms Hotel at Hopetoun. It is highly probable that William Watson was also the constructor of these two buildings as he was Lane’s brother-in-law. The verandah was added between 1876-83. The concave corrugated iron verandah was supported on timber posts with decorative brackets and drop-pendants (now missing). The ends of the verandah were filled with a simple panel. A later extension was made to the building between 18831900 to extend the width of the two-storey front and verandah and to return the two levels along the north face of the original building. The outbuilding seems to have had three stages of development. The northern half has the oldest form of weatherboard and probably had a shingled skillion roof. The remainder was added before 1900, it appearing in a photograph of that date held by Mrs Nancy Simmons of Bacchus Marsh. The building is clad with three types of weatherboard and has a gabled corrugated iron roof. The older parts of the building have multi-paned windows with slender mullions and, of particular interest is the partition wall between the bathroom and the laundry which is clad with rough 10 inch boards. This house is one of three buildings adjacent to each other along Gisborne Road all connected with the Bacchus Marsh Express. They are the office and on each side the homes of the original printer and editor. This building is of great importance as the home of George Lane and is an integral part of the Express complex.

A former MP and Mayor has been named the inaugural Chair of a new tourism industry body, which will advocate for western Victorian communities including Moorabool Shire.

John Pandazopoulos has been named the inaugural Chair of Tourism Midwest Victoria. Photo – Tourism Midwest Victoria

Photos - State Library of Victoria

Ballan

Dates: August 12 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: August 5 9am - 1pm • Cnr Fitzroy & Grey Sts, Darley A Farmers’ Market/Flea Market held at Darley Park - on the 1st & 3rd Saturdays of each month.

Eynesbury

Dates: July 27 9am - 2pm • 487 Eynesbury Road, Eynesbury

Relaxed surroundings with a wide range of stalls from produce growers & makers, food vendors & artisan crafts.

ENGINEERING

Reddrop St, Bacchus Marsh

PH: 5367 1141

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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.

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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.

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DEATH NOTICE

SCOTT (nee Leddin) – Rita Magdalen

27.01.1925 – 12.07.2023

Aged 98 Years

Passed away peacefully, after being surrounded by her loving family. Devoted and dearly loved wife of Les (dec).

Cherished and loving mum to Jim, Ray & Michelle, Theresa & Michael.

Adored and proud Nan to Emily & Clint, Billy & Claudia, Courtney & Trent, Natalie, Tom & Jordyn, Jack, Ben & Brooke. Doting Great Grand Nan to Mackenzie and one on the way. Reunited with Dad

A Blessed life, full of faith and family

We will carry you in our hearts forever.

DEATH NOTICE

KUMMERLOWE – Hilmar

‘Irish’

20.03.1949 – 06.07.2023

Dearly loved husband of Bev. Loved father of Natasha & Kylie.

Adored Pop of Taylor, Blake, Conner & Paige.

FUNERAL NOTICE

KUMMERLOWE – Hilmar ‘Irish’

The Military Funeral Service for the late Mr Hilmar ‘Irish’ Kummerlowe will be held at Michael Crawford Funerals Chapel, 226 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh on THURSDAY (July 20, 2023) commencing at 1pm. Following the Service, the Funeral will leave the Chapel for the Maddingley Cemetery, Bacchus Marsh. If possible, please wear a splash of Green In Memory of Irish. The Service for Irish will be Live Streamed and available to view on our website: michaelcrawfordfunerals.com.au (Select –Funeral Notices)

IN THE CARE OF

Bacchus Marsh • Ballan

✆ 5367 6733

SCOTT (nee Leddin) -

The Requiem Mass for the Repose of the Soul of the late Mrs Rita Magdalen Scott will be offered at St Bernard’s Catholic Church, Lerderderg Street, Bacchus Marsh on SATURDAY (July 22nd, 2023) commencing at 12.30pm. Following Mass, Rita will be laid to rest at the Maddingley Cemetery.

The Service for Rita will be live streamed and available to view on our website: michaelcrawfordfunerals.com.au

(Select – Funeral Notices)

IN THE CARE OF

Bacchus Marsh • Ballan

✆ 5367 6733

Ballarat Football League

RESULTS – ROUND 12

Central Highlands Football League

Central Highlands Netball League

Dunnstown Netball

RESULTS – ROUND 12

13 & Under B

Dunnstown 3 lost Ballan 11

Awards - Milla Richardson, Oakley Munday & Lakyla Douglas

13 & Under A

Dunnstown 16 def Ballan 0

Awards - Milla Flanagan, Neve Taylor & Bonnie MacDonald

15 & Under Dunnstown 16 lost Ballan 30

Awards - Anna Jones, Olivia Hyland & Harriet Manifold (Lachie’s Legacy)

17 & Under

Dunnstown 29 def Ballan 14

Awards - Abbey Britt, Chloe Wales & Brooke Peart

C Grade

Dunnstown 22 lost Ballan 49

Award s- Charlotte Austin-Lund & Elly Hewitt

B Grade

Dunnstown 16 def by Ballan 26

Awards- Annie Flood, Holly Keating & Amy O’Loughlin

A Grade

Dunnstown 30 lost Ballan 40

Awards - Abbey Britt, Amy Purtell & Felicity Griffith

This week – Dunnstown v Daylesford (H)

Ballan Brumbies Basketball

Players returned to the hardwood over the weekend, the Under 12 Boys B looking to maintain their hold on top spot on the ladder against Celtic Tigers. Both teams love to play attractive, up-tempo basketball, Celtic through their foot speed, Brumbies via crisp ball movement.

Ballan got on the board first through Hamish Stewart with Eli Rogers and Harry Garner following suit to give Ballan an early break. Celtic had their chances, though were met with the fierce rim protection of Marley Solterbeck, who blocked four shots inside the first five minutes. Oli Cox eventually got Celtic going with a driving layup. Ballan’s combination of stifling defense and quick transition offense was causing all sorts of issues for Celtic. Stewart and Rogers were controlling the defensive glass with Garner the primary beneficiary, scoring 12 of his eventual game high 21 points in a blistering opening half.

When Celtic were able to slow Ballan down, quick passing by Toby Rewuk set up Stewart and Rogers for buckets.

Just as the game threatened to break open, Celtic ramped up their defensive pressure, creating just a hint of hesitation in Ballan’s passing game, then using their speed to pick off those loose

passes. Jai Carey scored a couple of baskets from turnovers for Celtic, though Ballan were spared as Celtic missed far more chances than they converted as the Brumbies turned the ball over seemingly everytime they had it late in the half. Still, Ballan held an 18-12 lead as the teams took a break after Tristan Cox scored just before the buzzer.

The game continued in a similar pattern in the second half, though Ballan were noticeably more diligent in looking after the ball. Whilst they were able to get into good positions, shots were refusing to fall, the usually reliable Felix Trinder having an off shooting day, though his movement was on point.

Celtic continued to push, Carey especially causing issues with his speed and ability to score in traffic. With just under 10 minutes to play, he’d dragged Celtic back to within a solitary point of Ballan. Needing a boost, Harry Garner stepped forward.

The pocket rocket came through with a series of baskets - a give-and-go with Trinder, a jumper from a Rewuk pass, another after a lovely find from Rogers - that eased the pressure on the Brumbies. Further baskets from Rogers and Stewart put the game beyond doubt, Ballan running out 37-28 winners.

RESULTS

Under 8

Ballan 20 lost Celtic Tigers 22

Under 10 Boys

Ballan D 9 lost Wildcats 56

Ballan B 26 def Celtic Tigers 18

Under 12 Boys

Ballan F 30 def Wildcats 15

Ballan B 37 defCeltic Tigers 28

Under 12 Girls

Ballan 16 lost Phoenix Emeralds 19

Under 14 Boys

Ballan 29 F 29 def Saints Hawks 12

Ballan E 36 def Celtic Tigers 22

Ballan D lost Sovereign Knights

Ballan B 37 lost Saints 60

Under 14 Girls

Ballan E 11 lost Exies Acmy 20

Ballan B 31 def Wildcats 19

Under 16 Boys

Ballan G Blue 28 lost Wildcats 38

Ballan G White 36 def Drummo

Dragons 12

Ballan D 45 def Wildcats 39

Ballan C 37 def Sovereign Knights 28

Under 19 Boys

Ballan E 56 def Saints Pirates 44

Ballan C 37 lost Wildcats 48

Under 19 Girls

Ballan 29 def Sovereign Knights 25

Ballarat Football/ Netball League

This week we welcomed Melton to Maddingley Park under slightly grey skies but the weather held out, as did the Melton Bloods. It was a hard fought senior match and the Cobras can hold their heads high as we went down to the Bloods 19.9.93 to Cobras 8.6.54

Reserves saw Bacchus Marsh 4.9.33 go down to Melton 12.7.79 and the Under 19’s Bacchus Marsh 8.10.58 def by Melton 12.9.81.

Senior Netball 23 def by Melton 62 Bacchus Marsh Senior Women’s 15 defeated by Carisbrook 29

This week saw the girls play in different directions with the under 14s haven a bye and the under 16 & Senior women take a road trip up the highway to on Carisbrook and under 19s taking on north Ballarat at city oval on fresh but bright sunshine for Ballarat.

The under 16s play well they tackle hard with great team skills heading in to last few games of the season before we strap ourselves in for a great finals series. With an underman 19 side with some of ours girls unable play they fought hard with some great team work and some great level of skill with some of the girls only just starting are putting up great effort and level of football being played its a credit to all coaches but unfortunately went down to a strong north Ballarat.

The senior women took on Carisbrook in Carisbrook put up a fine effort with great passage of play and some great skills continue to put in a great effort each and every week but unfortunately went down to Carisbrook in a well fought out game.

Under 16

Cobras 14.7.91 def Carisbrook 0.0.0

Under 19s

Cobras 2.4.16 def by North Ballarat 9.4 58

In our Junior ranks held on Sunday 16 July we had the following results:

U/17 Seniors - Bye

U/17 reserves BM 6.5.41 def by Lake Wendouree 10.13.73

U/15 Seniors 10.8. 68 def Storm 3.3.21

U/15 Reserves Bacchus Marsh 0.1.1 def by Darley 11.17.83

U/13 Seniors Bacchus Marsh 4.4.28 def Storm 0.1.1

U/13 Reserves Bacchus Marsh 1.5.11 def by Darley 2.2.14

U/11 Seniors Bacchus Marsh 3.9.27 def Darley 3.4.22

A big thanks to one of our generous Sponsors, Bacchus Marsh Community Bank who along with all their current and previous support contributed to our new carpet flooring in the Maddingley Clubrooms, enjoyed by all over this past weekend. Thanks so much Bacchus Marsh Community Bank!

Don’t forget Thursday night training along with team selections and Parma for dinner, from 6pm @ Maddingley Clubrooms keep up to date on our social media www.facebook.com/bacchusmarshcobras

Upcoming Club Social Events

Saturday August 12 – iPod Shuffle @ Maddingley Clubrooms

Saturday August 26 – Jazz & Shiraz @ Maddingley Clubrooms Go Cobras!

Bloods down Cobras

By Todd Whelan

Ladder leaders Melton proved too good for a competitive Bacchus Marsh, winning by 39 points last Saturday.

The Cobras were not shy on their fair share of possession but were made to pay for their inefficiencies against the competition benchmark.

For all of the red, yellow and black buyin, scoring was scarce for the opening three quarters managing just one goal, one behind for each period.

The visitors were the ultimate beneficiaries of the Cobras poor kicking game and led by as much as 51 points at the final change. But for all of the Cobras inadequacies there were positive signs that saw the Bloods made to work hard for their spoils.

Progressive Cobra youngsters Isaac Nixon and Josh Huxtable were busy. Externally (later confirmed) it was thought Nixon had a defensive forward role on Bloods rebound ace Jordy Cotter. Not only did the Western Jets listed Nixon (one goal) deny Cotter his usual license to manipulate transition he was able to have an impact of his own. The sum of all Nixon’s contributions validated his listing as the club’s best player.

Huxtable had the ball on a string early proving an important metres gained contributor when the game was still seemingly in the balance.

While it was no surprise to see Luke Goetz shade Bloods big man Ben Archard for hit outs, the Cobras in essence failed to gain any real bang for buck out of stoppage and lacked a key aerial target across half forward.

Prime Cobras mover Jake Owen spent the first three quarters in defence before a final term switch saw him convert just six minutes into his more familiar role forward.

Co-Captain Jack Parente (two goals)

Aussie trotter off to USA

was industrious the longer the game went while Alex Porters ball use by foot was an exception to the Cobras struggles in this area of the game.

Defender Jonathon Bissell continues to improve and broke even against his more experienced opponent Ryan Carter (three goals).

Furthermore, there was some reward for the Cobra’s intent to play the game out with a five goals to three fourth quarter win.

Another opportunity presents for the Cobras this Saturday when they meet cross town rival and fourth placed Devils (8-2) on the broad expanses of Darley Park. If similar returns on the efficiency front are forthcoming for the Cobras regardless of effort, it’s fair to expect a similar result to their weekends shortfalls. A correction, however, would see the window slightly ajar causing an unlikely upset.

*LIVE RADIO - Darley v Bacchus Marsh via Apple 98.5FM from 2pm or stream via the BFNL.com.au Match Centre.

What the coaches said Williams (B/Marsh) - “Big improvement today, having the Coates league players available and in the side make a big difference. Our future is really exciting. We battled hard against a really good footy side.”

Tymms (Melton) - “Not the prettiest performance but we’ll take the four points. Pleased with the grind for three quarters and credit to the Marsh for making it difficult all day.”

Final Score

Bacchus Marsh 8.6-54 lost Melton 14.9-93

B/Marsh (Whelan’s Best) - I. Nixon, L. Goetz, J. Huxtable, J. Bissell, J. Parente, A. Porter.

B/Marsh (Goals) - E. McKercher 2, J. Parente, R. Huxtable 1, J. Owen, J. Freeman, I. Nixon

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.

ATTENTION – Local Business Owners

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

Back in winning form

By Greg Tinkler

The last two rounds without head coach Bronwyn Gell resulted in drawn games, but with Bronwyn back from Indonesia BM Tigers were looking for a strong win to cement their place on top of the ladder ready for the run up to the finals.

A drizzly day in Geelong provided a very wet and slippery game day, particularly for the pitchers. By the end of the game the pitching mound had been reduced to a muddy bump.

BM Tigers were first to bat with Nat Gell leading off with a walk, then stealing from first base to third base, then getting home on an overthrow by the catcher, setting the scene for a game with lots of good strong base running.

Guild struggled against the Tigers pitching battery, which started with James Early, who pitched three innings, only allowing one run to be scored from 55 pitches, and finished with James Bailey pitching for the final two innings, also only allowing one run to be scored from 33 pitches.

In the second innings BM Tigers recorded the maximum allowed runs in a single innings of 10 runs then continued to dominate throughout the game.

All BM Tigers players got on base at least once, with almost every player getting at least one hit. They also put up a solid defence in the field, coping well in the wet conditions.

Kilmore wrap-up

By Tim O’Connor (HRV)

Dean Braun produced Holy Basil for a long-awaited victory in the Bob Cain Memorial Winter Championship (second heat) at Kilmore last Saturday night.

The injury-plagued seven-year-old had not prevailed since success in Tasmania during March of last year, but showed significant improvement third-up from a break to claim his eighth win at just start 13.

That was the first of two wins for driver Nathan Jack, who then claimed the Bob Knight Memorial with Ross Graham’s Major Manbar.

The Long Forest trainer-driver, husband-wife combo of Andy and Kate Gath secured the evening’s other winning double thanks to the efforts of Pull The Other Leg

and Central Otago.

Pull The Other Leg produced a stunning finale from last to win the Vin Knight Memorial before Central Otago closed the card with a front-running success in the Roger Reeves Memorial Trot.

Aaron Dunn’s impressive four-year-old Eyethink continued to build on an outstanding career record by winning the first heat of the Ken ‘Snowy’ Chapman Memorial Winter Championship.

The Horsham horseman sent his charge forward and quickly found the front, and despite some early pressure from Hes Olly, was able to control the early stages of the race before ripping home in 27.3 and 27.9 closing quarters.

Eyethink has now won seven of 16 lifetime starts.

Bacchus Marsh Little Athletics

Week 12 of Cross Country competition was conducted at Rupert Moon Reserve, Bacchus Marsh.

After tough conditions at Bostock Reservoir last week, athletes appreciated the flat, fast course set along the Lerderderg River and amongst the Avenue of Honour market gardens.

The Open Age athletes were first to compete this week, racing over a 3km distance. Athletes headed out along the gravel walking path for 1500m to the turnaround point and before heading back towards the finish line. Under 14 athlete Jujhar Tamber from Melton was declared the overall winner. Lachlan Simons (BM) claimed the win for the Under 13s and Braydn Rich (BM) for the Under 17s. Lily Norman (BM) and Mia Preddy (Melt) were confirmed winners for the Under 13 & 14 age groups respectively.

Melton’s Ella Preddy was declared the overall winner in the combined Under 11/12 2km event but was pushed right to the finish line by Zeke Horne (BM), who was rewarded with a PB time whilst also claiming maximum points for the Under 11 boys. Chord Wilson (Melt) recorded a 17 second PB after a well-executed run.

In the 1.5km event Bacchus Marsh athletes Auden Sundqvist and Lyla Clark were acknowledged as the Under 9 winners while team-mates Anni Clarke and Joshua Askew continue their dominance in the Under 10 competition. Melton athletes Octavius Pirangi, Sofia Anikeev, Mahena Pirangi and Bacchus Marsh’s Harry Johansen all recorded their fastest times this season.

Twenty-five athletes toed the start line in the Under 7 & 8 1km event. After a fast start, it was Melton’s Fletcher Reid who led the field out through the market gardens. Being pushed by team-mate Chayse Johnson, Fletcher was able

to maintain the lead and cross the finish line in 1st place. Chayse was 2nd overall but 1st Under 7 athlete home. For the girls, Mckinley Wilson (Melt) was the Under 7 winner while Rylee Robinson (BM) was the first home for the Under 8s.

The highlight for the morning was the Under 6 500m race, with 7 athletes recording PBs. A great tussle by the top 5 athletes – Jude Brody-Wall (BM), Sahib Cameron (BM),

Zyah Cameron (Melt), Kai Mills (BM) and Olivia Anikeev (Melt), all recording season best results. Meanwhile, Cory Lewis (Melt) and Scarlett Tatchell (BM) were also rewarded for their great effort with a PB result.

This week – The venue is Lake Dewar, Myrniong. This will be a good opportunity for our intermediate and senior athletes to have a run at the same venue as this year’s scheduled State Championships.

This Saturday – BM Tigers will be playing second on the ladder Alfredton, in Ballarat.

The Under 6 athletes ready for their 500m event at Rupert Moon Reserve in Bacchus Marsh Photo – BMLAC

Pull The Other Leg was one of two winners for Long Forest trainer-driver, husband-wife combo of Andy and Kate Gath (Photo – Stuart McCormick)

James Early winning pitcher (PhotoG Tinkler ©

RESULTS – ROUND 12 BM Tigers 15 def Guild All Stars 2