Wimmera duck
breeder Andy Flett, with one of his Elizabeth ducks, which he wrote a book about to celebrate 50 years of the breed. Mr Flett is preparing for the Wimmera Poultry Club’s annual auction this weekend.
Full story, page 3.
Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
BY LAUREN HENRY
Roads funding – for a Western Highway duplication, freight route upgrades and programs to boost rural roads – is at the forefront of Wimmera councils’ wishlists ahead of the 2025 federal election.
The Weekly Advertiser requested details of what the Horsham, Ararat, Northern Grampians, Yarriambiack, Hindmarsh and West Wimmera councils wanted parties to commit to as election promises.
The election, on May 3, will see Australians go to the polls to decide who will form government for the next three years.
Housing was another common topic listed among Wimmera councils’ key concerns.
Horsham Rural City Council, HRCC, Ararat and Northern Grampians councils all listed duplication of the Western Highway as top priorities they want to see funded.
Ararat particularly want the Buangor-to-Ararat section of the highway upgraded, which it says is urgently needed to improve safety and transport efficiency.
As the major road link between Melbourne and Adelaide, the highway is crucial for farming, grain production, manufacturing, tourism, and access to essential services.
More than 6000 vehicles, including 1500 trucks, travel the highway west of Ballarat each day, and councils want both the federal and state governments to commit to duplicating the road west of Ararat to improve safety and efficiency.
HRCC has identified essential link roads to upgrade key freight routes –seeking leveraged funding from state and federal governments to spend $2.5-million a year to widen six-metre road seals, allowing B-doubles to pass safely without moving onto gravel shoulders; and add four-metre gravel on 70 kilometres of farm-machinery routes to make them suitable for allweather use.
HRCC has also listed The Wesley performing arts centre upgrade, which Member for Mallee Anne Webster has already made an election pledge of $750,000 for if the Coalition is elected.
A detailed route alignment for an alternative truck route around Horsham, involving a second road bridge across the Wimmera River; and a new regional sports stadium, to be built in
Dimboola Road – catering for netball, basketball, volleyball, and hockey –and giving Horsham capability to host major regional and state-level sporting events were also on HRCC’s wishlist.
Ararat Rural City Council is advocating for the full delivery of the East Grampians Rural Water Pipeline Project; $6.25-million for continuation of the Buangor-Ben Nevis Road upgrade – a key link between the Pyrenees Highway and Western Highway, a significant route for freight vehicles as well as local and tourist traffic; and $3-million for stage two of Mt William Road, which will reconstruct one of the region’s main heavy-vehicle freight routes for agriculture.
As well as a sustainable funding model for roads, which Hindmarsh Shire Council estimates to be about $3-million for its shire, Hindmarsh
has also listed the $3.8-million replacement of the Jeparit Weir; the $2.8-million stage-two redevelopment of Davis Park, Nhill; $1-million for public amenities redevelopment at Rainbow MECCA; and $1.3-million for Dimboola Swimming Pool upgrades.
Dr Webster has already made election commitments to Davis Park and the Rainbow MECCA projects. Northern Grampians Shire Council is advocating for housing development; a transport intermodal in Stawell to allow a connection between freight and rail; and the development of a discovery centre, to coincide with Stawell Underground Physics Laboratory, allowing for a science-based experience in the old Stawell TAFE building.
Continued page 3
BY LAUREN HENRY
Detectives continue to investigate the death a Wimmera woman who died after being hit by a truck in Kiata.
A passing truck driver located human remains in the eastbound lane of the Western Highway in Kiata, at about 8am on Friday.
The highway was closed for most of the day as police, including the Major Collision Investigation Unit, investigated the scene.
Kiata, a small town with a
population of 64 recorded at the 2021 census, is located between Dimboola and Nhill.
Detective Inspector Craig McEvoy, of the Major Collision Investigation Unit, said while the victim was yet to be formally identified, police believe the body to be a woman from the region.
Det Insp McEvoy said the cause of the death was yet to be determined but police believe the woman may have been struck by a truck or heavy vehicle.
Police believe the woman was struck sometime between
9pm on Thursday and 2am on Friday.
However the body, located on the road in between the closed Little Desert Hotel and Kiata Memorial Hall, was not reported to police until 8am Friday.
Det Insp McEvoy said it was unknown why the woman was on the road.
“The party that has struck her – be it known or not known – hasn’t stopped,” he said.
“We don’t know at this point in time – but we believe she may have been impacted by a truck, only from the evidence that’s been located at the scene,
but we don’t know if that truck driver may even be aware.”
Det Insp McEvoy said police had dashcam footage to identify the woman was dead on the road at 2am.
“We’re looking for dashcam footage from anybody who was in that area from 9pm through until 2.30am,” he said.
“It doesn’t get reported though until around 8.15am, so police don’t attend for some six hours following, obviously because we are unaware, so potentially she’s been on the roadway for a long period of time.”
TREASURE TROVE: The 41st annual Horsham Car and Bike Swap Meet on Saturday attracted a good crowd to look at a vast array of goods at more than 250 sites. Pictured is Stuart Norris and Brent Bellamy at Horsham Showground.
Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
WIM Resource’s Avonbank Mineral Sands Project has received approval by a delegate of the Federal Minister for Environment and Water under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
The approval authorises WIM Resource to develop and operate the Avonbank Mineral Sands Project at Dooen, subject to conditions designed to protect the environment and ensure the project is carried out responsibly.
The approved action involves opencut mining of heavy mineral sands and secondary processing activities within the Wimmera Intermodal Freight Terminal precinct.
The Federal Government approval follows the State Government ticking off an Environment Effects Statement last year.
Resources Victoria, a State Government body, is currently assessing WIM Resource’s application for a mining licence for the Avonbank mine, which spans
3426 hectares, staged over 38 years, and is about 1.3 kilometres northeast of Dooen – with a footprint that is split by the Wimmera Highway.
The Earth Resources Regulator has received more than 300 submissions from the public about the mining licence.
WIM Resource board director John Bradley said the project was now positioned for construction to start in 2026, pending final approvals and a financial investment decision.
“This is an important milestone for the Avonbank project and confirms that we can move forward with confidence, knowing the project meets Australia’s highest environmental standards while delivering lasting economic and social benefits for the Wimmera region,” he said.
WIM Resource executive team members Eddy Wu and Michael Winternitz said the Federal Government approval recognised the project’s adherence to the
principles of ecologically sustainable development and its capacity to avoid and mitigate significant impacts to matters of national environmental significance.
They said WIM Resource would continue to engage with relevant stakeholders, including the local community, as the project progresses.
The project has attracted a growing criticism from landowners whose properties will be affected and from a larger group of farmers across the region who believe agriculture land should be prioritised, and the community should be aware of mining risks concerning radiation; dust; economical impacts and environmental concerns.
The approval decision and conditions, published yesterday morning, is available on the Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water website at epbcpublicportal.environment.gov.au/all-notices/.
From page 1
Other projects on the Northern Grampians council’s list are: $640,000 for Market Square senior play upgrades at St Arnaud; $12.6-million for the Heath Street Bridge, Halls Gap; $3.5-million for a shared path linking Halls Gap Zoo and WAMA on Ararat Road; and $200,00 for Stawell Airport apron upgrades.
West Wimmera Mayor Tim Meyer said ‘road funding, of course’ was at the top of his council’s wishlist.
“Also, a return of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure, or
Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Det Insp McEvoy said it was a graphic scene that confronted first-responders.
“We believe we know who the victim is, but we need to have 100 per cent confirmation from the coroner, who will utilise several methods,” he said.
“At the moment, we’re trying to establish what put her there.”
Investigators have asked for anyone travelling in the Kiata area from 9pm on Thursday to 3am on Friday to contact police, and if they have dashcam footage, to submit it to police.
“We’re calling out for witnesses – anybody who was
driving through Kiata either eastbound or westbound because any footage can assist us with the investigation,” Det Insp McEvoy said.
“We call on anybody who’s got that dash cam footage through the area at that time to contact Crime Stoppers, and provide that dash cam footage for us so we can then review it and that’ll assist our inquiries.”
People contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au
‘See the change, join the movement and finish what we’ve started’ is the catch-cry to a Wimmera - Southern Mallee early years initiative fighting for survival.
Funded by the State Government, By Five is at risk of missing out on future funding in the State Budget next month.
Executive officer Jo Martin called on the community to demonstrate their support by attending an online forum on Tuesday, from 2pm to 2.45pm.
“We invite people to demonstrate their support for By Five by attending the online community event – they can hear firsthand how this initiative has impacted children, families and the Wimmera,” she said.
Facilitated by Professor Sharon Goldfield and hosted by By Five chair Ash Brooks, guest speakers will include Dr Felix Ritson, a GP at Lister House; Harrow parent Jessie Ferguson; Grampians Health speech pathologist Louise Mason; Rainbow P-12 college principal Colleen Petschel; and Federation University Future Regions Research Centre team lead Cathy Tischler.
To register, people can visit www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1377654.
Duck breeder Andy Flett is one of Wimmera Poultry Club’s members who are preparing birds for sale in the club’s auction this weekend.
A keen, decades-long breeder of Australian species the Elizabeth, three years ago Mr Flett wrote a handbook three years ago to celebrate 50 years of the breed.
“It was the first domestic Australian breed of waterfowl that was developed,” he said.
“People were looking to breed a quick-growing meat duck that would be suitable for two people, and in the process of breeding for that, the Elizabeth popped up, so they went with it and developed the breed from there.”
Mr Flett, who breeds his ducks to show, said the Elizabeths are popular at poultry shows around the country.
“A couple of years ago I was at the Sydney Royal and had the champion reserve Elizabeth – I only took two birds,” he said.
“I went more to promote my book, so it was a nice result for a long trip.”
Mr Flett’s interest in ducks started in high school – more than 30 years ago.
While his ducks are less social than chicken, Mr Flett said there were backyard benefits.
“Ducks are great for the garden, but it depends on the time of year,” he said.
“They will go through and clean up, so it’s best to wait until the tomatoes, cabbages and lettuces have finished.”
Mr Flett prepares his ducks for showing by handling them as a judge would.
“I have the process of getting them used to being in a cage, pulling them out, and pulling their wings out to look them over,” he said.
Wimmera Poultry Club’s poultry, birds, pets and sundries auction is at Natimuk Showground from 11.30am Sunday. The live-call auction will take place via livestream to the football clubrooms.
similar program, which trusts councils to make decisions and fund projects that are best for their communities,” he said.
“We also need a better way of supporting childcare services, rather than just subsidies for users. Support to attract and retain staff is the highest priority.”
Cr Meyer also listed assistance with land and housing development; a fairer share of tax returns; more protections for prime agricultural land from renewables, transmission, and mining; support for rural and regional health
services, especially doctors; mobile phone blackspot funding; and drought support as key priorities.
Yarriambiack Mayor Kylie Zanker said council would continue advocating to all sides of politics for key issues such as fairer energy and mining; roads; housing; and infrastructure.
“Councillors recently adopted a position statement on mining and renewable energy, confirming our commitment to advocating for legislative reforms to ensure that community members residing close to mining, transmission and renewable energy in-
frastructure are considered, and their health, wellbeing, and the social cohesion of our community are taken into account,” she said.
“Our ‘All Roads Lead to Yarriambiack’ advocacy document has long outlined our need for a regional approach to tackling the many challenges faced in providing quality regional roads, with solutions like funding for tree-trimming, long-term funding programs, road-widening for heavy vehicles, and upgrades to key bridges.”
On Monday, Dr Webster welcomed a Coalition pledge for a new agricultur-
al and mining roads program, through which it plans to allocate $600-million across Australia over four years.
The program will invest in sealing, widening and strengthening roads, highways and bridges, building flood immunity and resilience upgrades, and working with representatives of the trucking, farming and mining industries to identify the priority roads to be upgraded.
• For more on the election, see editorial on page 11.
Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
Fight
Parkinson’s announced at Horsham’s Walk in the Park event on Sunday that it will contribute $815,000 towards a worldclass multi-disciplinary care model ParkinsonNet pilot in Australia.
Fight Parkinson’s chief executive Emma Collin said 20 researchers from across Australia would take part in the five-year project.
“There are two pilot sites – and this is the exciting piece for all of you – the two sites are Western Victoria and Tasmania,” Ms Collin said.
“Led by Professor Michele Callisaya from the University of Tasmania, the project has just received a $2.88-million Medical Research Futures Fund grant to build the capability of your allied healthcare professionals here to understand and know
Parkinson’s, and give people clear and easy access.
“Part of that grant, Parkinson’s has made a commitment of $815,000 community-sourced research funding to help build that model for Australia.”
ParkinsonNet is a globally recognised, evidence-based healthcare model, which has been implemented in Europe and the United States, improving access to high-quality care, reducing hospitalisation, lowering disability rates, and cutting healthcare costs.
“So when people ask what we are walking for today, we’re walking for the free services and supports that we provide every day, but also for the research of how we can implement sustainable models of care for people with Parkinson’s in the community – in your community, where the pilot site will be,” Ms Collin said.
“That’s exciting news, and it can mean world-changing levels of services and support for rural and remote areas, that’s what this project’s about, and that’s what we’re seeking to do.”
More than 100 people supported Horsham’s event, raising about $2000 to assist Fight Parkinson’s to deliver education, peer support services and resources that empower people impacted by Parkinson’s and Atypical Parkinson’s.
Event organiser Shona Cross said the turnout was truly heartwarming.
“It was a sea of smiles and strength,” she said.
“Horsham has shown up in the most incredible way to say we care, we are here and we are walking this road together.”
People can find more information on Parkinson’s support services, or donate, at www. fightparkinsons.org.au.
A Town Hall meeting tomorrow, Thursday, will provide the region’s farmers and community stakeholders with more information about the current status of the East Grampians Water Pipeline Project.
GWMWater will attend the meeting to provide information and updates, and there will be an opportunity for stakeholders to ask questions about the project.
The pipeline has had significant delays in its rollout, and is currently planned to be delivered over a smaller footprint due to cost overruns.
“All stakeholders – our farmers, CFA brigades and recreation reserves – are looking for answers on where they stand with the delivery of the pipeline,” Ararat Mayor Jo Armstrong said.
“Water security is so critical to our eco-
A Unity Parade at Wimmera Steampunk Festival on Saturday will pay tribute to the dedication of CFA and VICSES volunteers and celebrate the resilience of the Dimboola community shown during and since the Little Desert National Park bushfire.
Supported by Wimmera Southern Mallee Development, WSMD, Settlement Services the parade will feature 50 performers from the Philippines, Burma-Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, India and Timor-Leste.
Iconic performer ‘Wanda Queen of the Little Desert’ will lead the procession, flanked by two giant Steampunk bicycles, and there will also be a vintage fire truck.
Children will play a key role, carrying ‘Thank You’ banners in appreciation of emergency service personnel.
WSMD migration and settlement program manager Sara Barron said the tribute would blend cultures and music while bringing a touch of the extraordinary.
“Inspired by the vibrancy
nomic prosperity, community safety, and to maintaining our vitally important recreation facilities.”
Dobie farmer Charlie de Fegely said the meeting was important for farmers and rural communities.
“We need to know what is happening with the pipeline. We need access to good quality water for farm enterprises, we need it to fight fires, and we need to have somewhere green to kick the footy… we are worried about where the water will be going and how we can help to lobby for a full delivery of the pipeline,” he said.
The meeting will be at Ararat Town Hall at 9am on Thursday. Council would appreciate people providing an RSVP by calling its customer service team on 5355 0200 or visit https://bit.ly/3EcGtcY.
of Rio de Janeiro, costumes will be themed around fire, symbolising strength, and resilience,” she said.
“This dynamic street dance procession will really bring Dimboola’s main street to life.”
Head-dresses and costumes were made collectively by the Wimmera Filipino Australian Club, Nhill and Horsham Karen Community Club, the Timor-Leste Community in Stawell and WSMD Settlement’s Harmony Sewing Group. Support was also provided by Nhill Learning Centre and Centre for Participation.
WSMD chief executive Chris Sounness said since the festival’s inception in 2022, WSMD Settlement Services had played a key role in ensuring multicultural communities remain at the heart of Dimboola’s Steampunk celebrations.
“This involvement reflects WSMD’s broader vision of fostering an inclusive, vibrant, and thriving region, contributing to the goal of facilitating
population growth of 7000 people by 2032.”
The parade will start at 6pm and end at 6.30pm. It will enter Lloyd Street from the post office side and travel towards Lochiel Street and conclude near IGA.
Train rides
A heritage train will be available to shuttle passengers from Horsham to Dimboola and return on Saturday for the festival. With snacks and drinks available, people can enjoy the features of the parlour or dining car in the 1937 Spirit of Progress carriages.
The service will depart Horsham for Dimboola at 8.30am, 11am, 4.20pm, and 10.10pm, and depart Dimboola for Horsham at 9.30am, 1pm, 9pm, 11.15pm.
The Nhill Dimboola Band will perform on the platform for the train’s 4.50pm arrival.
Tickets are available from www.trybooking.com/ events/1338297/sessions.
Tickets cost $30 adults, $15 a child, and $70 a family of two adults and two children.
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The region’s fire-affected businesses and farmers are still waiting for government grants to open – 29 days after the package was announced, which was 85 days after the first fire.
The state and federal governments announced a $24-million fire recovery package on March 11 – including $5000 Business Bushfire Recovery Grants.
The package also included a Business Recovery Advisory Service; funding for tourism marketing and promotional activities; and $5-million allocation for environmental recovery of public land in the Grampians National Park.
The package was criticised for not only its tardiness, but the lower amounts compared with past fire packages, and funding offered to businesses who had suffered from Queensland natural disasters.
The Yarram Gap fire began in the southeast of the Grampians in December, followed by two other major fires in the
Grampians in late January, coinciding with the Little Desert National Park fire.
While most businesses were not physically damaged by the fires, they were forced to close for extended periods of time and also suffered financially through cancelled bookings.
The Weekly Advertiser submitted the following questions to the State Government: when will businesses be able to apply; what has caused the delay; and what is being done to implement the other parts of the funding package.
A State Government spokesperson did not answer the questions, rather pointing to Business Victoria providing an update to registered businesses on March 21, and confirming an email notification will be sent when grant registrations open.
He said the governmetn was supporting small businesses through recovery grants, tourism support and dedicated advice.
“Business recovery advisers are on the
ground supporting businesses, providing tailored guidance and financial advice along with support to access a range of state and Commonwealth assistance.”
Member for Mallee Anne Webster, in Halls Gap on Thursday, said she was ‘horrified’ that businesses were still waiting.
“I cannot believe what I am hearing –that businesses are being told the eligibility criteria still hasn’t been determined, 23 days after federal-state funding was announced,” she said.
“After cyclones or floods in Queensland, generous equivalent state-federal government funding was released in under two weeks, not months. The delay in Victoria is disgraceful’.
GWMWater has lifted the blue-green algae warning for Taylors Lake. Tests indicate the water in the lake is safe for recreational activities, including swimming, boating, fishing and other water sports. GWMWater will continue to regularly monitor the water quality at the lake. For algae alerts, visit gwmwater.org.au/bga.
“I call upon the federal and state ministers to intervene immediately and review the adequacy of the funding itself and the delay in delivering it.”
• For Member for Lowan Emma Kealy’s letter on the delay, see page 11.
Artists grieving the temporarily lost landscape of the Grampians will exhibit their related works in the Grampiana ‘Recovery Through Creativity’ event at Willaura Modern Railway Gallery.
Project co-ordinator Lois Reynolds said the exhibiting artists either lived in the region, or were regular visitors to the Grampians.
“Many of the artists have been personally affected by the fires, and are now grieving the lost landscape,” she said.
“At Willaura Modern, we felt the immediate need to focus on supporting both the creative artists and the renewal of the burnt environment, as a way to encourage recovery through creativity.”
Artists include Victoria Valley’s Rosanna Blacket, Pomonal’s Michele Richardson, and Mirranatwa’s Ros McArthur.
Oil painter Ms McArthur said her surroundings and everyday experiences influenced her work.
“A lot of our land was burnt in the fire – we were in the middle of it,” she said.
“It advanced towards us rapidly about three times in that two-month period.”
Ms McArthur said she had lived in the area for about 25 years and had always painted scenes of the nearby bushfires.
“I think the power and the strength of the fire is just amaz-
ingly awesome and needs to be captured. With oil paint you can get that vibrancy of colour, which is really rich, so you can show a great big burning mass or a great big cloud that’s coming towards you that’s full of feisty anger,” she said.
Ms McArthur said although none of their sheep were lost to the fire – they moved them to less-treed areas ahead of the firefront – many kilometres of their fences were burnt.
“BlazeAid has been wonderful,” she said.
“And we have had a little mob of wallabies living in the garden here – they’ve particularly enjoyed the roses – but there’s a bit of green in the paddock so they’ll soon go back to their own native vegetation.”
Ms McArthur, who paints landscapes, still life and portraits in abstract and impressionistic styles, paints every day. She exhibits her work at her gallery, which is open to the public.
“I’m on my own journey here with my painting,” she said.
“I’m in this for me and to push myself in new areas where I haven’t painted before.
“It’s a great big learning curve, which is just joy.”
The exhibition starts on Friday until May 18, and is open each Friday and Saturday from 10am until 2pm or by appointment.
A meet-the-artists event is on this Sunday at 1pm.
PERSPECTIVE: Artist Rosanna Blacket prepares her installation piece Lobelia in the Old Willaura Courthouse, part of Willaura Modern’s exhibition at the renovated Willaura Railway Station Gallery.
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
An easter egg hunt, live music, activities and displays will feature at Dimboola’s Good Friday Appeal event at the town’s recreation reserve on April 18.
Organised by Dimboola’s Lions Club members and Bendigo Bank staff, the event will raise money for the Royal Children’s Hospital’s annual appeal, an ongoing statewide effort that helps the hospital deliver the best care to its patients and their families.
10-month-old Dimboola resi-
dent Monty Smith, grandson of Bendigo Bank staff member and organiser Amanda Ingeme, has been a patient at the children’s hospital in recent weeks.
His mother Cadence Smith said she and husband Scott had taken him to the hospital for numerous tests to find the cause of seizures, which they first noticed when he was about six months old.
“At first, it was just like he was staring into space and couldn’t be distracted out of it,” she said.
“Then he started having headdropping seizures, which can happen quite violently and often, which make him really upset.”
Monty most recently had an extended video electroencephalogram, EEG, to monitor his seizure activity.
“They were found to be nonepileptic and will resolve by the time he starts school, so that’s one of our biggest concerns crossed off the list,” Mrs Smith said.
She said Monty has had eye turns since he was born.
“During our visit to his eye specialist, she mentioned his dysmorphic facial features and referred us to the children’s hospital,” she said.
“We are still waiting for his genetic test results to hopefully give us more information on the seizures, and his developmental delays.”
Mr and Mrs Smith have three other children: Sebastian, nine; Victor, six; and Tessa, four, and
run an Airbnb and beauty business from their home, while Mr Smith also works full-time as a builder.
“It’s been a stressful and worrying time, but we have had great support from our family, especially my mum, Amanda, and Scott’s mum, Robyn,” Mrs Smith said.
“We are now working on his developmental delays with physiotherapy, as he is still not rolling or making any attempts of crawling.
“He is only just starting to bab-
Dimboola’s Monty Smith, 10-months, is a regular visitor to the Royal Children’s Hospital since his parents Cadence and Scott noticed seizures when he was about six months old. Dimboola Lions Club and Bendigo Bank will host activities in the town to raise money for the children’s hospital.
ble and make good eye contact, but he is giving us proper smiles and interactions, so that’s encouraging.”
Last year’s Good Friday Appeal raised a record-breaking $23,368,724 for paediatric care, $2.5-million of which was shared between six regional health services, including Grampians Health.
Dimboola’s event starts at 9.30am at a cost of $5 per child, with an evening concert beginning at 6pm.
Stawell will host the Country Fire Authority and Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria State Firefighter Championships next year.
After a weekend of traditions and surprises at the urban junior championships at Mooroopna, where Melton won for the fifth consecutive year, it was announced Stawell would be the new location in 2026.
Thousands gathered for the Mooroopna event and were welcomed to the competition with an opening parade, as well as special guests, Emergency Services Minister Vicki Ward, CFA board chair Jo Plummer, and VFBV state president Samantha Collins.
Stawell captain Mal Nicholson said the brigade was chuffed to have the championships move to their town.
“We ran the state championships in Stawell in 1995, 2000 and 2006 so it will be great to have people back in the town supporting the area, especially after the bushfires over the Christmas period,” he said.
“We know the Stawell community and Northern Grampians Shire will get behind us to make the 2026 state championships a fantastic event. See you all in Stawell next year.”
West Wimmera Shire Council has secured funding to develop a dedicated off-leash dog park at the Kaniva Wetlands and Fauna Park.
The $90,000 project will see the construction of an off-leash dog exercise area, which will feature secure fencing, a holding yard, a water fountain, accessible footpaths, and seating.
West Wimmera Shire chief executive David Bezuidenhout welcomed the funding, highlighting the benefits it would bring to dog owners and the wider community.
“This will be a secure and purpose-built space for dogs to exercise, socialise, and train off-leash in a safe environment,” he said.
“These upgrades will not only provide a welcoming environment for dog owners but also expand the picnic and recreation space, improving the park’s appeal for families, visitors, and tourists.”
There will be no kerbside rubbish collection on Good Friday in Northern Grampians Shire. Bins usually collected on a Friday will instead be collected on Thursday, April 17. Please ensure bins are placed out for collection overnight on Wednesday, April 16. Anyone requiring further information can call (03)5358 8700.
The Weekly Advertiser, in conjunction with our radio counterparts MIXX FM and 3WM, will host a federal election forum for Mallee candidates on Monday, April 28 – and you’re invited.
The public forum, starting at 7pm at Coughlin Park Community Centre, Horsham, will also be live-streamed via our social media channels.
All seven candidates who have nominated so far have been invited – sitting member Anne Webster, Nationals; Greg Olsen, Labor; Nicole Rowan, Greens; Chris Lahy, Australia Citizens Party; Vaughan Williams, Pauline Hanson’s One Nation; Ashleigh Gray, Family First; and Jeff Barry, Libertarian Party Australia.
But as nominations of candidates don’t close until tomorrow, Thursday, and the final declaration scheduled to be announced on Friday, more candidates could still be added.
At the forum, each candidate will have two minutes to introduce themselves, tell the audience about their background, outlining why they are standing for election, and what their priorities are if elected.
The public will then have an opportunity to ask questions of the candidates. At the end of the forum, candidates will be given one minute each to add anything further and wrap up their pitch.
As chair of the forum, I am looking forward to hearing directly from the candidates on local issues. And that is where we need our readers to help out – to make the forum a success and to help get to know the candidates, their policies and views, we need people to ask about issues that are important to them and our community.
According to councils across the region, roads – whether it be general maintenance or major projects such as duplication of the Western Highway – are the number one concern and a high priority on all councils’ wishlists.
Another hot topic sure to be highlighted is about renewable energy and mining projects, and the protection of agricultural land. While housing – both cost and availability; the rise of cost-
By Lauren Henry
of-living expenses; and access to health services are issues sure to be on the list.
But what are the other topics that readers would like to see raised at the forum?
If people can’t make it to the forum and would like to a particular question to be asked, they can email weeklyadvertiser@aceradio.com.au with their suggestion.
Questions on the night will be checked before they are allowed to be asked – just so we can ensure they are questions, there is no duplication, and they are appropriate so the forum flows as succinctly as possible.
From experience from the Horsham council candidates forum last year, question time can run overtime – so please keep questions brief and to the point.
With the Mallee electorate covering a third of Victoria, candidates have a lot of ground to cover in the lead-up to the May 3 election, and it is important they hear directly from constituents about what is important in the Wimmera.
A separate Wannon election forum, hosted by the Ararat Advocate, will be held in Ararat on April 29, and we’re sure there will be plenty of interest in that event.
With school holidays, Easter and Anzac Day all thrown in during the lead-up to the election, it certainly wasn’t easy to schedule a suitable date, and quite a bit of organising goes on behind the scenes to stage such events.
So we encourage all voters to support the forums, the more people in engaged in the issues that affect our region, the better place our community will be.
Business grants further delayed
Last month – more than 12 weeks after fires ripped through the Grampians and after countless pleas for help – the Allan Labor government finally announced support for impacted businesses.
However, more than three weeks later, with some businesses struggling to stay afloat, the government still has not opened applications for financial assistance.
To make matters worse, Grampians business owners were shocked to learn that their counterparts in Queensland and New South Wales, who were affected by ex-tropical cyclone Alfred – which hit two-and-a-half months after the fires – were granted access to business support within three days of the cyclone hitting, and are eligible for 10 times the amount of money that Victorian businesses are.
While this support is already flowing, bushfireaffected businesses in the Grampians remain locked out of any meaningful assistance.
This is yet another devastating example of just how heartless and incompetent the Victorian Labor government is.
It’s why I’ve stood in Parliament to call out the Premier, the Minister for Emergency Services and the Minister for Tourism for the way they have failed our region.
I also asked for an explanation as to why Grampians businesses are only eligible for $5000 in disaster support, while cyclone-affected businesses in northern states are eligible for $50,000, and why support for our state has been so incredibly slow to get to where it’s needed.
St Arnaud’s Dunstan Library will once again house a photograph of its namesake, Thomas Campbell Dunstan, after a search by his son unearthed the portrait that had been missing for nearly 20 years.
The Dunstan Library was named for Mr Dunstan and his wife Enid, née Montague, in recognition of their longstanding support of the St Arnaud Mechanics’ Institute and Library.
A photograph of Mr Dunstan hung in the former library in Market Square before being taken down in 2006 during construction of the current library.
Northern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Karen Hyslop said when the portrait subsequently went missing, Mr Dunstan’s son William ‘John’ Dunstan embarked on a quest to find it.
“John has been on a mission to track it down and bring both the photo and the story behind it back to the Dunstan Library,” she said.
“John first started searching seriously three or four years ago, bringing it up with St Arnaud librarian Belinda Huggins and council customer service.
“In this time, we have had a few maintenance men for the St Arnaud building – all who searched fruitlessly.”
Cr Hyslop said the younger Dunstan’s search unearthed a plaque about a year ago, but without the accompanying photo.
“Belinda recently organised for the current maintenance man, Josh, to meet with John and members of St Arnaud Historical Society to identify and sort a room full of ephemera upstairs in the town hall,” she said.
“It turned out the photo was the first thing they saw as they walked into the room.”
The plaque that accompanies the photo reads: “This library was named after Thomas Campbell Dunstan who served 21 years as a Kara Kara Shire Councillor, three terms as Shire President, and played an active role in the former Mechanics Institute Library Committee.”
Cr Hyslop said John Dunstan
recalled his parents as excellent readers and supporters of the mechanics’ institute, which included a public library, reading room and meeting place.
“John said his parents would travel to other towns and swap books so that St Arnaud always had an interesting and varied collection,” she said.
The current Dunstan Library has about 7000 items for loan and welcomes about 1000 visitors a month.
“Our library team receives comments from locals and travellers alike about how lucky we are to have such a beautiful and welcoming facility that caters for so many activities,” Cr Hyslop said.
Natural disasters don’t discriminate, but it would certainly seem that Labor governments do. If you live in Victoria, sadly you cannot rely on Premier Allan to deliver, even in your time of greatest need.
The two Labor MPs representing Western Victoria in Parliament’s upper house in Jacinta Ermacora and Gayle Tierney, along with their Ripon colleague Martha Haylett, have not stood up for our region or called out the government for its total lack of appropriate response – it’s simply not good enough, and our community deserves better.
Businesses in our region have lost trade during what would normally be their busiest season, the time that sets them up financially for the rest of the year.
Now, some have their backs against the wall, while others have been forced to close.
While any support is appreciated, $5000 does not go far enough.
The Allan Labor government should have immediately used every mechanism available to help support the community, but instead they sat on their hands.
While our local communities are amazing at supporting each other and have been doing what they can to keep these wonderful businesses afloat, we have seen that local dollars alone will not be enough.
I will keep fighting to ensure Labor delivers the support our region desperately needs and deserves.
Emma Kealy The Nationals’ Member for Lowan Deputy Leader of The Nationals
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BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
An example set by her ‘backbone of the country’ mother saw Nhill’s May Craig find, and take advantage of, rare opportunities presented to her as a young woman.
She signed up for World War II service, danced with actor Chips Rafferty, and considers the 1939 Black Friday bushfires the most dangerous situation she has faced during her 104 years.
Mrs Craig, speaking at Legacy’s monthly meeting, said she grew up on a farm at the Otways. Her father died when she was 10, leaving her mother to raise six children, who were aged between 12 months and 15 years.
“My mum was one of those women who were the backbone of the country – after the first year, she never looked back,” she said.
“I think that those early women were absolutely wonderful, what they suffered and how they brought up big families – and there were a few in those days.”
Mrs Craig has no memory of seeing a doctor before she was 10, and has lived a healthy life thus far.
“I do forget things sometimes – but I forgot things when I was 15,” she said.
When Darwin was bombed in 1942, Mrs Craig said she wanted to do something to help – one of her cousins was killed during the war – so in ‘desperate times’ she joined the newlyformed Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force, WAAAF.
“I had a day off so I went to Melbourne – I didn’t tell anyone – and joined up,” she said.
An estimated 716,000 women served in the armed forces during the war years. Many of them had never worked outside the home, but took on jobs previously done by men.
Mrs Craig said she did three weeks’ rookie training and a three-week stewardess course, where she learnt how to march, and carry three bowls of boiling soup.
“I also learnt how to throw an enemy to the ground if I was attacked,” she said.
In March 1943, Mrs Craig made history.
“We assembled on the parade ground at Melbourne University and swore the oath of allegiance and were enlisted in the RAAF – the first women’s service to do so, other than the nursing services,” she said.
When the war ended, Mrs Craig was stationed with a friend in Adelaide.
“Everything just stopped,” she said.
“Everybody rushed out on the street. In sheer jubilation you hugged and kissed total strangers. It was just magic.
“Until you heard about the prisoners of war.”
After the war, Mrs Craig rented a small flat opposite Melbourne’s exhibition building with two other women and worked at Easy Fits River Factory, where they were ‘crying out’ for staff and paid good rates.
“That was run by three lovely Jewish men,” she said.
“One of them had lost his whole family in the holocaust, and I believe another one of them went on to become a film-maker in Australia.”
Mrs Craig and her husband Keith moved to Kaniva ‘for a year’ after visiting her brother-inlaw one Christmas, and stayed.
She now lives at Nhill, near daughters Lesley and Donna and her legatee Merv Schneider.
Mr Schneider, an active community member and aged 99 years, said he first met Mrs Craig about 10 years ago and has assisted with her welfare since.
“She’s a marvel,” he said.
Grampians Health has opened a new gynaecology clinic in Stawell as part of its Women’s Health clinic project, offering specialised care for a range of women’s conditions.
Grampians Health chief operating officer Ben Kelly said he was excited to expand the service’s care options.
“Our overarching goal is to ensure we make care accessible to the communities we serve,” he said.
“The gynaecology clinic in Stawell represents our ongoing commitment to providing accessible and specialised healthcare to our community.
“We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our patients’ lives.”
The clinic will operate three times each month and will be staffed by a gynaecology registrar, addressing a range of conditions including menstrual disorders, pelvic pain and endometriosis.
The clinic also offers health education to sup-
port women’s overall reproductive health. The gynaecology clinic follows the recent opening of pelvic health physiotherapy clinics across Stawell and Horsham, that provide care for conditions such as pelvic floor disorders, pelvic pain and post-partum care.
Grampians Health is among one of the first sites in Victoria to have launched women’s health clinics, aimed at addressing conditions including pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, prolapse and incontinence, contraception and menopause services.
A clinic to address heavy menstrual bleeding was recently launched in Ballarat and aims to improve access to specialised care for women experiencing abnormal periods. GP referrals are required to access the clinic; people can contact Stawell Outpatient Clinics at 5358 8531 for more information.
A45-year-old glasshouse in Ararat’s Alexandra Gardens is set to be torn down, with local councillors encouraging the community to think of options to replace it.
The glasshouse, donated by Ararat Rotary Club in 1980, had been used to house orchid displays but became disused due to vandalism in recent years.
At its March meeting, Ararat Rural City Council voted to remove the structure from the gardens and is seeking community input on how best to use the space in the future.
Council major projects officer Rebecca Rodger said while it would be sad to see the glasshouse demolished, the potential future possibilities for the gardens were exciting.
“At the moment it is just a steel structure as we’ve removed the glass in the past couple of years due to ongoing vandalism,” she said.
“We’ve had informal discussions about what the area could be used for and some ideas have been along the lines of a sensory garden or a performance space with an electronic screen that could be used for events such as carols by candlelight, school concerts, weddings or even just over the summer having it opened up to the public with free-to-air sport.
“The recommendation is that we remove the glasshouse but we open up to the community through Engage
Ararat for their ideas about our proposals.”
Cr Teli Kaur voiced her support for the idea of a performance space.
“I think having a performance space with an electronic set up would be a great idea for weddings, concerts and any type of get-together,” she said.
Cr Bill Waterson said the area, if developed in the right way, could become a community meeting point.
“It’s such an opportunity to make that particular area a really good hub for entertainment,” he said.
“It would be wonderful to get there on a nice hot summer’s night and see the joint packed, whether they’re watching a screen or watching entertainment or whatever we put there.
“We need people to engage to give us some great ideas, but it is an opportunity for us to make it a really good hub.”
Cr Luke Preston said the project could enhance the Alexandra Gardens precinct.
“I think it’s a great spot for us to do something with,” he said.
“The garden is beautiful down there and the council staff do a great job of keeping it that way, so it’s going to be a great feature to have down at that end of town.”
People can provide feedback and suggestions for the glasshouse site by visiting engage.ararat.vic.gov.au/ orchid-glasshouse-alexandra-gardens.
Submissions close tomorrow.
HARD WORK: The Grampians Health Edenhope team in preparation for the
A group of eight people from Edenhope cycled more than 520 kilometres across Victoria at the weekend, raising money for Grampians Health Edenhope along the way.
Two teams of four riders from Edenhope were among thousands to join the annual Murray to Moyne ride, which begins in Mildura and ends at Port Fairy.
The ride, which began more than 30 years ago, encourages participants to raise money for hospitals, health services and health-related charities.
The Edenhope teams completed the ride as a relay in order to finish within the 48-hour time limit.
Forming part of the Edenhope contingent was 76-year-old Rob Kenna, who took part in the first Murray to Moyne ride in 1987.
“On that first event I was on my own – the group had formed teams
and I was just an add-on, so I didn’t get a rest,” he said.
“It was tough, and I nearly gave up at about 2am with a puncture, but I finished within 20 hours.”
Mr Kenna said he was proud to raise money for Grampians Health
Edenhope by taking part in the ride. He regularly drives Lakeside Living aged care residents and community members to medical appointments across the district.
“I’ve been a volunteer driver for a while now, but I’ve also had a few stints in hospital myself,” he said.
“Let’s face it, the community has ownership of the health service and it’s so important we build it up and keep it going.”
Mr Kenna, who said he lived for a challenge, has spent his life racing bikes, motorbikes and yachts.
But he said his approach to the weekend’s Murray to Moyne event was different to that of his first ride 38 years ago.
“I’ve been training every second day and it’s been bloody tough,” he said.
“I know how to get in a bunch and sit at the back so I can bludge off the other riders – I have to.”
Aprogram to bring paramedics to regional communities has been introduced at Dadswells Bridge and Pomonal, delivering chronic disease prevention, management, and health promotion service to the areas.
Grampians Community Health’s CP@Clinic involves free one-on-one sessions between clients and community paramedics and provides chronic disease screening, education and onward referral.
“We are hearing anecdotally from some of our more vulnerable clients that because of cost-of-living pressures, some people are not attending their GP as they can’t afford the gap fees. This free program can help to address that problem”
– Kate Astbury
Ararat Rural City Council’s Volunteer Expo will showcase the municipality’s diverse range of community volunteer groups and organisations, in the lead-up to National Volunteer Week.
Sporting clubs, local history, creative arts, faith, health and wellbeing, and more will be on display, sharing their missions and activities, with all open to recruiting people.
Council mayor Jo Armstrong said she encouraged people to attend and explore the opportunities available.
It aims to help people to manage their health outside of an emergency setting.
awarded a research grant to evidence the outcomes and value of CP@ Clinic in a rural Victorian context.
“Volunteering provides a unique opportunity to meaningfully contribute your time, unique skills and knowledge towards making a tangible difference in our community,” she said.
Grampians Community Health general manager aged and disability Kate Astbury said international evaluations had shown the program led to improved health outcomes for people while also impacting on social isolation.
“It has been well received in the local community and already leading to benefits,” she said.
“Paramedics go into a community where there is an identified need and provide a comprehensive health assessment and then conduct a fortnightly clinic to monitor the health of local residents.
“It’s an excellent model that uses the skills of highly trained paramedics to help people and divert those who are not seriously unwell but need monitoring away from the overburdened health system.”
The community paramedicine model was developed by McMaster University in Canada and adapted for Australia in partnership with La Trobe University, which has been
It was first introduced in Australia about three years ago by Sunraysia Community Health Services.
Grampians Community Health is the fourth organisation to introduce the program and has funded the employment of a paramedic two days per week, enabling four clinics to run each month.
Ms Astbury said Dadswells Bridge and Pomonal were chosen because of the impacts of recent bushfires. Both communities have also been supported by Grampians Community Health recovery staff in the wake of the fires.
“While we’ve been working with these communities, we’ve seen an opportunity to provide extra support with their health,” Ms Astbury said.
The first Dadswells Bridge clinic was at the CFA station at the request of the brigade captain because of his concern about the impact of the fires on the health of volunteers and others in the community.
Brigade captain Peter Jackman said the program was already benefitting the community.
WELL RECEIVED: Grampians Community Health has funded the employment of a paramedic two days per week, with clinics at Dadswells Bridge and Pomonal. Community paramedic Jacinta Reid visits Dadswells Bridge.
“We suggested it be held at the CFA shed because we thought we could capture the interest of the wider community and include CFA members,” he said.
“A lot of CFA members are farmers like myself and we’re not that good at going to the doctor until there’s something serious wrong.
“After the fires there was a fair bit of stress and we’ve had a pretty ordinary season which has added to the stress, so it was good to get together.
“Everyone felt comfortable doing the tests and it was a great opportunity for everyone to have a bit of a talk.”
Ms Astbury said some people had stopped going to their GPs because of financial strain.
“We are hearing anecdotally from some of our more vulnerable clients that because of cost-of-living pressures, some people are not attending their GP as they can’t afford the gap fees,” she said.
“This free program can help to address that problem.”
The CP@Clinic program will continue with a focus on Ararat Rural City and Northern Grampians Shire, with sessions planned for Ararat and Stawell.
The expo will run in collaboration with the Ararat Market on Sunday at Elizabeth Park from 7.30am to 1pm.
Community volunteer groups are welcome to participate but must register their attendance via www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1371415.
Grants are now open for sustainability initiatives within Ararat Rural City, Northern Grampians and Pyrenees municipalities.
Ararat Wind Farm is providing the Sustainable Community Grants Fund, with grants of up to $7500, or $15,000 with a co-contribution, on offer to support projects in the categories of sustainable environment; education and youth; social, health and wellbeing; and cultural diversity and creative arts.
To be eligible to apply, groups or organisations must demonstrate they are a not-for-profit entity or local community group.
People can find more information on council’s website www.ararat.vic.gov. au/ararat-wind-farm-sustainable-grantsprogram. Applications close on April 13.
Two draft documents set to guide the long-term vision for the newest iteration of Ararat Rural City Council are now on public display, with councillors urging residents to share their thoughts.
Following each council election, councillors work to develop a plan laying out overarching objectives for their four-year term.
The council also produced a draft Community Vision 2035 document outlining aspirations for the municipality in the next 10 years, extending beyond the term of the current coun-
cil. Both documents are now available for public feedback, after which a final draft incorporating residents’ thoughts will be presented to the council for approval.
The draft council plan contains six themes: growing our place; building robust local economies; preserving the environment; developing and maintaining key enabling infrastructure; enhancing community life; and strong and effective governance.
The Community Vision 2035 document outlines future challenges for the municipality, including strong projected population growth and as-
sociated employment, housing and environmental factors.
Cr Bob Sanders, who was re-elected as a councillor in October, said he was pleased to see the council plan and community vision aligned with the previous council’s goals for the region.
“It really follows straight on from what we’ve been doing in our last term,” he said.
“I’m very happy that our new councillors were happy to continue on the same forward projection.
“I would encourage all community members to get online and read it as
serves sausages during a Horsham Special School community barbecue at Horsham’s May Park.
Horsham Special School celebrated the end of term one with a community barbecue at May Park.
Principal Ben Tait deemed the event a wonderful success.
“It is the first time since COVID lockdowns we have hosted a community barbecue like this and the turnout from students, families, carers, friends and staff was amazing,” Mr Tait said.
“It was wonderful to see so many smiling faces enjoying the celebratory atmosphere.”
An Easter raffle was held as part of the event to raise money for the Good Friday Appeal, a charitable cause chosen by the school’s Student Representative Council.
soon as they can. It’s a very good short document and it is very well worth reading.”
First-time councillor Peter Joyce said he enjoyed the process of outlining goals for the council’s term.
“As a new councillor I was super impressed with how well the new plan has come together,” he said.
“We already had an amazing base to start from.
“I particularly like the measures of success and how we are pushing ourselves to try to make sure we have good successes over the next 10 years.”
People can view the council plan and community vision and make submissions on both via engage.ararat.vic. gov.au/community-vision-2035-anddraft-council-plan-2025-2029.
People can also submit feedback by emailing council@ararat.vic.gov.au or mailing to PO Box 246, Ararat, 3377. Submitters can request to speak in support of their submission at a council meeting.
Submissions close on May 9 and a final draft of the Council Plan 20252029 will be presented at the council meeting scheduled for June 24.
Political leaders across Victoria are being asked their views on the importance of local newspapers and their ongoing sustainability as part of an Australia-first research project.
The Victorian Country Press Association has engaged Deakin University researchers to examine the impact of the State Government’s decision in 2022 to introduce the equivalent of a page of public awareness notices each week in most newspapers across rural and regional Victoria.
The move attempted to provide some surety to the business model supporting local news in a challenging digital environment.
The Victorian government is the only state government in Australia to make this guaranteed commitment.
The Federal Government has pledged a minimum $3-million of its advertising budget to support local newspapers as part of its new $153.5-million framework to support public interest journalism in Australia.
VCPA executive officer Peter Kennedy said the research project would survey political leaders at local, state and national levels across Victoria as well as local news proprietors.
Professor Kristy Hess said government public messaging was an important area to research because it differed from election advertising spending as it provided awareness about a range of issues, from road safety to bushfire awareness, new infrastructure projects, and health messaging.
She said it was the first-time politicians had been surveyed about their perceptions of, and role in, supporting public interest journalism.
“Government and media are often uneasy bedfellows and tend to keep ‘distance’ from each other, when actually they share a symbiotic relationship,” Professor Hess said.
“Any form of government advertising should not buy favours of the press, but it has been an important, unspoken revenue source for local newspapers for decades. A lot of this spend has shifted towards social media in recent years.”
Dr Alison McAdam said all tiers of government would be approached to be involved in the survey.
“We know some local governments, for example, produce their own publications rather than spend money advertising in a newspaper, so we want to understand that further,” she said.
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9.30am Warracknabeal Golf Club Men’s and Women’s Stableford Event
1.00 pm Cemetery tour with Graeme Massey
8:30pm Steve Messer’s Strange Country music at Easter Convention
9.00 am Ladies Rest Rooms Homemade jams, pickles, preserves and scones with jam and cream
9.00 am Easter Egg Hunt at The + 10.30am Community Garden Two sessions 9.30 am Face Painting near Post Office - 1.00pm 10.00am Wheatlands Machinery
Museum Easter Rally Machinery demonstrations and displays, kids activities, catering available
11.00 am Community Garden famous baked spud lunch
Sunday April 20
10.00 am Wheatlands Machinery Museum Easter Rally Machinery demonstrations and displays, kids activities, catering available
11.00 am Music at The Museum - 5.00 pm Featuring Sam+Sam and Matty Chaps, food vans, kids activities and more
Sponsors Saturday April 19 9.30 am Warracknabeal Golf Club 4BBB S’ford Any Combination
8.30 am “IT’S A DOGS BREAKFAST” - 10.00 am Free breakfast for dogs and humans at the Kelsall Street Dog Park (Rotary Park) Organised by The Rotary Club
9.00 am Lions Club
Community Market IGA carpark
10.00 am Uniting Church BBQ in front of 12.00 pm the Tourist Information Centre.
11.00 am Grand Parade – Vintage cars, floats, machinery in Scott Street
11.00 am Show ‘n Shine to 1.00pm Woolcock Street, near Post Office
11.00 am Easter Race Meeting Country racing at it’s best, TAB, catering available, fashions on the field, kids activities and music
5.00 pm
Wheatlands Machinery Museum Twilight Tractor Pull
Competition and social golf and bowls at Warracknabeal Golf Club.
Wimmera Christian Easter Convention. Bookings required, contact Hugh Keam 0437 016454.
The Willenabrina CWA is hosting a Creative Easter Bonnet and Basket Competition. Entries will be displayed at the Commonwealth Bank.
Australianslove a good tax deduction. It is almost ingrained in us – if there’s a way to pay less tax, we’re all ears.
But what happens when tax savings become the main reason behind an investment decision?
As I’ve seen time and time again, people are being sold on property investment strategies that prioritise negative gearing and tax outcomes over the actual quality of the investment.
While these strategies may sound appealing on paper, they often lead to financial stress, high debt levels, and poor long-term outcomes.
The selling point
Many Australians are encouraged to invest in residential property purely because it can be negatively geared. The promise? You’ll reduce your taxable income by offsetting property losses against your earnings.
But here’s the catch: negative gearing means you are losing money every year. You are spending a dollar to save 30 cents.
That’s not a winning formula – it’s a financial drain disguised as a tax-saving opportunity.
I’ve seen clients earning well over $200,000 annually who are still struggling with cash flow because they have overcommitted to negatively geared properties. Why? Because they were sold on the idea of tax savings without considering the broader impact on their financial health.
The property market is filled with salespeople whose advice is driven by commission.
They’re not concerned with your long-term goals or financial well-being – they’re focused on closing the deal.
Here’s the truth. Property marketers want to sell you property because that’s how they make money. Banks want to lend you as much as possible and keep you in debt for longer because they profit from the interest.
These are not unbiased sources of advice. If the recommendation is coming from someone with something to sell, it’s worth asking whose best interest is this advice really serving?
Another troubling trend is the normalisation of taking on large amounts of debt to fund taxdriven property investments.
When property prices rise rapidly – as they have for decades in Australia – buyers feel pressured to stretch their budgets to secure a piece of the market.
But debt levels have now reached a point where even high-income earners are feeling the pinch. High debt tied to negatively geared properties creates: cash flow problems, more debt means
with Robert Goudie CFP GradDipFP Consortium Private Wealth
more repayments, which squeezes your day-today budget; financial stress, the burden of covering losses while waiting for potential capital gains can weigh heavily; limited flexibility, debt limits your ability to pursue other lower risk opportunities, like investing in superannuation or diversifying your portfolio.
This isn’t a new problem. Twenty years ago, Australians were lured into tax-driven investments like blue gum plantations. The promise of a hefty tax deduction was enough to convince many to invest, but poor investment fundamentals led to financial losses.
A good investment stands on its own merits, and should fit within your overall financial strategy. Tax benefits should always be a bonus, not the driver.
When you are considering any investment, it’s essential to seek advice from someone who can provide a balanced perspective and not incentivised to sell one strategy over another.
A financial adviser, for example, will consider your long-term goals and objectives; alternative strategies, like salary sacrificing into superannuation; investment diversification; the risks and returns of the investment – not just the tax outcomes.
By working with someone who is not tied to a single product or strategy, you will gain a clearer understanding of your options and make decisions that truly align with your goals.
If you are considering an investment property where the selling point is how much tax you will save, take a step back. Ask yourself: Am I spending a dollar to save 30 cents? Is this property overpriced or overhyped? Would my money be better spent on a more balanced strategy?
Tax savings are great, but they should never come at the cost of quality, sustainability, or peace of mind.
Remember, a good investment is one that works for you – not just for your tax return.
•The information provided in this article is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice.
Fill in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and 3x3 block.
Fit the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.
Fit the given numbers into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same No number is repeated in any hexagon
bmpuzzles Distributed by Knight Features
Mitsubishi Motors Australia
Limited is progressively launching additional Triton ute variants to join its existing Triton double-cab range that was launched back in February of 2024.
Rolling into Mitsubishi dealers this week will be the Triton double cab/ chassis with other variants in single cab/chassis, Club cab/chassis, and Club cab/pickup, including sub onetonne payload GLX, GLX+ and GLXR models arriving later this year.
Pricing for the expanded Triton range starts at $34,490 for the base
model GLX manual two-wheel drive cab-chassis, to $63,840 for the GSR double cab pick-up.
All told, the Triton is now available in 18 variants factoring in grade, transmission, and driveline configurations.
In ascending order, the Triton will be available across GLX, GLX+, GLXR, GLS, and GSR grades. All are powered by the existing 2.4-litre twinturbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine developing 150kW/470Nm.
Two-wheel drive is available on entry GLX Single cab-chassis grade with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions and GLX
Double cab-pick-up with a six-speed automatic only.
A four-wheel drive Triton with manual transmission option appears only on the GLX Single cab-chassis and GLX Double cab-chassis. The remainder of the line-up is automatic only.
Triton cab-chassis offerings are available with a wide array of tray options through Mitsubishi Genuine Accessories. These feature an integrated rear-view camera for ‘confident vision and safety’.
The alloy tray range offers a galvanised finish, while the premium steel trays are presented in galvanised or body-colour finishes.
“Triton has always been known for its ability to work hard and play hard,”
Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited general manager of product strategy Bruce Hampel said.
“The cab-chassis and Club cab variants provide customers another opportunity to create a vehicle that suits their lifestyle – from tackling their chosen trade to chasing weekend adventures.
“Cab-chassis variants offer impressive scope for customisation, while the new Club cab-pick-up caters to those who only need a single seat row – but with ample cab storage space.
“Our vision is to drive Australians to
be more adventurous, and these new models give Triton the product depth to deliver on this promise.
“Additionally, we have also introduced a sub-one-tonne payload option for Triton GLX, GLX+ and GLX-R Double Cab Pickups.
“This follows a successful introduction of similar payload GLS and GSR grades last year and further broadens Triton’s fleet appeal.”
The Triton range remains covered by a conditional 10-year warranty and capped-price servicing program. – Peter Barnwell
It is hard to believe the Nissan Patrol is into its seventh generation – soon to be six in Australia –in 74 years, chalking up a quarter of a million sales along the way.
The hi-tech and more luxurious Y63 is expected to arrive in Australia next year or 2027, having already lobbed in Middle East markets late last year.
The very same month Nissan Australia marks its Patrol sales milestone, the soon-to-be-replaced Y62 has outsold its LandCruiser 300 Series arch rival for the third consecutive month, having just recorded its best sales year in two decades despite the LC300 outselling Y62s almost two to one overall during the 2024 calendar year.
As the Y63 follows the LC300 into six-cylinder power, it could be that Aussies are passing on a Toyota to secure ‘one of the last V8s’.
The launch of the Patrol Warrior in 2023 – a vehicle enhanced in Australia specifically for Australian conditions through Nissan’s long-term engineering partner Premcar – has also drawn attention toward the Y62 and given it a late-life lift.
Since arriving in local Datsun –later Nissan – dealerships in the early 1960s priced from around $1800, Patrol has achieved ‘legendary’ status with serious off-roaders and within the towing community, helped by motorsport icons such as the late Les
Siviour who successfully raced the unlikely big off-roader.
The Patrol’s reputation started with a baptism of fire soon after it arrived here, completing the first motorised crossing of the vast Simpson Desert in 1962.
In chronological order, the first 4W60/70 model, not sold in Australia, was a Willys Jeep knock-off that started the ball rolling in 1951 on the Japanese domestic market. There followed the 60/G60/H60
from 1959-80, 160 Series, aka MQ, from 1980-89, Y60, aka GQ, from 1989-97, and the Y61, aka GU, from 1997-2016 including a three-year overlap with the now 15-year-old Y62.
After years of slow sales, the Y62 started selling its socks off in Australia following a facelift in late 2019 that went on to benefit from a combination of sluggish LC300 supply, backlash to the Toyota’s lack of V8 and a holidayat-home boom during the pandemic
that put more people behind the wheel of a Patrol and helped the nameplate regain critical mass.
The large four-wheel drive had been a popular choice in Australia through all generations that were imported, starting with the Jeep-like 4.0-litre in-line six-cylinder G60, but really hit its straps with the square-set SWB and LWB MQ model in the 1980s that was available with petrol and diesel straight-six engines of various capacity.
Patrol sales rates redoubled when the GQ arrived in SWB and LWB, again a square-set beast but with a more homogenous body instead of what looked like a hard plastic canopy tacked on the back of some SWB versions of its MQ predecessor.
Drive was once again courtesy of in-line six cylinder units in petrol and diesel configuration.
The Y61, GU, ushered in a monumental change with the first availability of a four-cylinder turbo-diesel ZD30DDTi engine accompanying large capacity, up to 4.8-litre, in-line six petrol and smaller diesel six-cylinder units.
V8 power arrived with the Y62 in the 5.6-litre VK56VD naturally aspirated petrol unit that it retains to this day Down Under, but this generation also saw the disappearance of SWB variants, being available only in fivedoor wagon configuration and diesel off the menu completely.
Nissan Oceania vice-president and managing director Andrew Humberstone said last year Nissan Australia recorded its best sales on record for the Y62 Patrol, and the best sales for the Patrol nameplate since 2004.
“While we like to think of the Patrol as legendary, so too are all of its owners, for it’s their stories, memories and adventures that have shaped the legend of Patrol in Australia, and continue to do so today,” he said.
From The Weekly Advertiser archives: April 7, 2005 –Horsham Rural City Mayor Roslyn MacInnes turned the first sod to commemorate the beginning of building at the Horsham Leisure and Aquatic Centre at Bolton Park. The $8.45-million project was due for completion in May 2006.
10 years ago: April 8, 2015
Work was scheduled to start on the Wimmera River pedestrian bridge from Apex Island to Southbank. The $1.2-million suspension bridge was to be pre-fabricated in Wangaratta and constructed on-site. The previous State Government contributed $500,000 to the bridge, with the outstanding balance from council and a Southbank developer. Other works associated with the project included upgrading the footpath on the north side of Apex Island; constructing a culvert across the causeway from Apex Island to Barnes Boulevard for better access, particularly emergency services; and concrete paths to connect the new bridge to the existing footbridge.
Five years ago: April 8, 2020
The State Government announced all primary, secondary and special school students would move to remote learning when term two started the following week. In what we now know to be the early days of COVID-19, the move was made on recommendation of the chief health officer in an attempt to slow the spread of the virus.
One year ago: April 10, 2024
Donald’s Jacob Donnellon was announced the Wimmera Agricultural Societies Association junior show ambassador. He was one of five finalists showcased at Dimboola, and was chosen for his contribution to Donald Show, including raising more than $20,000 in sponsorship for the event. Other finalists were Nhill’s Bailee White, Goroke’s Lucinda Smith, Kaniva’s Jessica Cassar, and Warracknabeal’s Amber Nuske
1. Born on this day in 1963 in New York City was which American fashion designer, famous for his work with the Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs labels?
2. Celebrating 40 years of adoptions in 2018, was which popular doll?
3. Sherwood Schwartz and Frank De Vol wrote the theme song for which television series, which premiered in 1969?
4. What kind of horse racing sees horses trot or pace while pulling a driver in a sulky?
5. The collective noun for a group of kangaroos is a what?
6. Which Australian actor, television host, writer and singer, appeared in Neighbours as Greg Davis, Home and Away as Frank Norman, and also had roles on The Henderson Kids II, The Flying Doctors and Playschool?
7. Which street artist, also known for his work at Wirrabara, Nullawil, Arkona, Horsham, Murtoa and Lameroo, has just completed Rupanyup’s silo art?
8. Which club did AFL’s Gary Ablett Senior play for before he moved to Geelong – Hawthorn, St Kilda, Richmond, or no other club?
9. How heavy was the Murray cod that Bert and Reg Deutscher caught at Lake Charlegrark in 1995 to establish an official Victorian angling record for the species –42kg, 35kg, 26kg, or 110kg?
10. Who said ‘be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind’?
Answers: 1. Marc Jacobs. 2. Xavier Roberts’ Cabbage Patch Kids. 3. The Brady Bunch. 4. Harness racing. 5. Flock, mob or troop. 6. Alex Papps. 7. Smug. 8. Gary Ablett Senior played six games for Hawthorn in 1982 before moving to Geelong; his brothers also played for Hawthorn. 9. 35kg 10. Bernard M. Baruch.
Our office is at 2 Stawell Road, Horsham. Mail: PO Box 606, Horsham 3402. Telephone: 5382 1351 Website: www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au Email: weeklyadvertiser@team.aceradio.com.au For classified advertisements: 5382 1351 – email: horsham@aceradio.com.au
dcutter@aceradio.com.au; Heidi Higginson: heidih@aceradio.com.au; Lily Olver: lolver@aceradio.com.au Newsroom 5382 1351: Lauren Henry: lhenry@aceradio.com.au; Bronwyn Hastings: bhastings@aceradio.com.au; Georgia
3pm on
WiTh saRah KULKEns
Australia’s Trusted Psychic Family
FOR THE WEEK APRIL 13 TO APRIL 19
ARIES (March 21 - April 20)
Lucky Colour: Violet
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 9, 6, 5, 3
Lotto Numbers: 9, 6, 12, 25, 40, 33
Keep an eye out for potential deception during this period. Be cautious with your belongings to avoid theft or loss, and try to stay focused to avoid any accident-prone tendencies.
TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)
Lucky Colour: Yellow
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Racing Numbers: 5, 9, 6, 2
Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 23, 34, 40, 33
This is a loving and optimistic time for you, especially with family and close friends. A relationship might undergo a positive change, and long-distance travel could soon be on the horizon.
GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)
Lucky Colour: Red
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 5, 9, 6, 7
Lotto Numbers: 8, 15, 24, 40, 39, 7
Romantic surprises could leave you speechless, and your busy social life could bring unexpected proposals. Be mindful of people who may leave you paying the bill.
CANCER (June 22 - July 22)
Lucky Colour: White
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 7, 9, 6, 2
Lotto Numbers: 7, 15, 26, 34, 40, 22
Avoid sharing your personal feelings with others during this period. Some wonderful reunions with long-lost friends may fill you with nostalgia, making you reflect on old times.
LEO (July 23 - August 22)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Monday
Racing Numbers: 9, 6, 4, 2
Lotto Numbers: 9, 15, 26, 34, 40, 45
This period favours real estate deals, and many Leos may find themselves moving house. Make sure all important business agreements are in writing, and if they’re not, walk away from the deal.
VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)
Lucky Colour: Orange
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Racing Numbers: 9, 6, 4, 2
Lotto Numbers: 9, 15, 26, 34, 8, 22
After some bumps with colleagues, your career should start advancing. Romance looks smooth, and an unexpected proposition could make things exciting.
LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)
Lucky Colour: Orange
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 3, 5
Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 26, 39, 9, 11
Financial stability is within reach, and there’s more cash flowing in. However, trust only those who have proven to be reliable in the past – others may let you down.
SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 9, 6, 5, 1
Lotto Numbers: 9, 12, 26, 34, 40, 45
Your romantic life is thriving, and you may receive more attention than ever before. At work, success may depend more on who you know than what you know.
SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)
Lucky Colour: Blue
Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 4, 6, 5, 2
Lotto Numbers: 4, 15, 12, 26, 35, 36
The start of the week may feel off-balance, but once you find your footing, things will improve. Use your newfound knowledge to gain the upper hand in challenging situations.
CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)
Lucky Colour: Silver
Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 4, 6, 2, 3
Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 26, 9, 3, 11
Success lies in being punctual, so don’t miss out by being late. Even in your romantic life, timing is everything – make it count.
AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)
Lucky Colour: Blue
Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 9, 6, 4, 2
Lotto Numbers: 9, 15, 26, 34, 40, 12
Your love life is intense, but don’t let jealousy spoil the moment. In business, things may not be perfect, but there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.
PISCES (February 20 - March 20)
Lucky Colour: White
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 5, 9, 6, 2
Lotto Numbers: 9, 6, 15, 24, 45, 33
Your social life is buzzing, and you may hear from people you haven’t spoken to in years. If you’re planning changes, make sure you consult your loved ones first.
Based on unprecedented reader and listener demand, we encourage regional trade-based businesses to become part of The Weekly Advertiserʼs Local Trade Directory.
The Local Trade Directory offers the only true multimedia platform combining print, radio and online services for businesses to ʻspread the wordʼ in across the Wimmera, Mallee and Grampians.
It’s affordable and effective!
For a small weekly investment you will receive an advertisement (as above) PLUS... Receive bonus radio credit mentions on MIXX FM and 3WM throughout your paper advertising period.
2014 Lagoon Pasadena
Caravan, 2 single beds, showr & toilet, diesel heater, air con, annex & rear camera, sat king TV, $38,000 Ph 0427861784
2017 Ezytrail Stirling, excellent condition, forward folding hard floor, full annex, 600w inverter, TV, 80lt WACO fridge, memory foam mattress topper, always stored undercover, $18,500 ono Ph 0439022870
2017 Jayco Starcraft caravan, 16’, queen size bed, full oven, ensuite, easy to tow, hardly used, as new van Ph 0429982394
2019 Ezy Trail Stirling GT
Mark 2 camper, EC, full annex, used 4 times, full rego
$14,999 ono Ph 0428820446
Caravan 20’ full length, solid annex, ensuite shower, basin toilet, on permanent site in Portland Seaside Caravan Park, fully furnished, for holidays or permanent living $5800ono Ph 0432544164
CUB Escape camper, 2020, Australian made, off road camper that will go anywhere, queen size bed, all canvas awnings, very good condition $24,800 Ph 0490532715
Jayco 1985 pop-top caravan , elec brakes, full annex, new tyres, microwave, tv, lots of storage, new mattress, full rego $4500 ono Ph 0428820446
Jayco Finch Pop Top, double beds with fly mesh, electric brakes, boat rack, annex
$12,000 Ph 53582560
Jayco Starcraft pop-top , 18’, 4 birth, disel heater, porta potty, outdoor shower, hot water, full annex and awning, tv, GC $12,900 Ph 0419560817
MDC Highside Cruiser 2019,
3 ton McHitch, fridge, redarc
dc to dc charger, EC $14,500 Ph 040714799
REDUCED 2006 Concept
Ascot pop-top, immac cond, shedded, low kms, new full annexe, R33763 $18,500 Ph Ray 0413445347
REDUCED 2009 Jayco
Stirling Expander , immaculate cond, front club lounge, slide out q/bed, full ensuite, roll out awning and full annex $40,000ono Ph 0428913307
REDUCED 2014 Concept
Innovation, 590R, 19ft 6in, full ensuite, WM, Q bed, full fridge/freezer, TV, new microwave, 2 batteries, AC, 2 toolboxes, awning, annex, ex cond, $42,000 Ph 0437164589
REDUCED 2018 Dingo
Ultimate Camper , heavy duty top of the line off-road trailer including boat rack, fully enclosed annexe including ensuite, lots of storage, built-in instant gas hot water to sink and shower, dual AGM batteries and built-in inverter and charger, innerspring mattress and ability to make up second double bed, two new off-road tyres, VGC, Y76535 $16,500ono Ph 0407360212
REDUCED Isuzu Outback
Express Motorhome for sale, 2 seater, sleeps 3, 4ltr diesel engine, solar panels, auto, diesel, fridge, tv, shower, toilet, stove and lots more, have to see to believe, can drive on normal car licence, 3.1m long, RWC, $38,000 with 6mth rego and RWC Ph Phillip 0428173606 or Susan and ask for Phillip 0458727370 Horsham
REDUCED New Age 2013, queen bed, TV, large fridge, microwave, gas/electric hot plates, toilet, shower, washing machine, full annex, sway bars, $44,000 Ph 0427778747
Toyota Coaster camper , 2 seater, diesel heater, 1hz motor, solar and 12v awning much more $40,000 Ph 0418325662
1997 Hercules Tipper
$76,000 plus Gst Ph 0428386295
ir Seeder RFM 30’ $20,000 Ph 0427031310
Cox ride on lawn mower $900 Ph 0407285097
REDUCED 2022 Mahindra
6110, 60 HP, front end loader, 4 in 1 bucket, FWA, a/c cab, balance of new warranty, 368 hrs on clock $43,900 Ph 0428349401
REDUCED Versatile 555
Tractor, good working order
$12,000 ono Ph 0493394223
Tradesman trailer, off road $4500 Ph 0407285097
2 saddles, 2 bridles, 2 horse bits, 1 drench bit, 1 riding cap Ph 0447590865
23 of PVC pipes, 39” long x 6 1/4” diameter, ideal planters $150 for the lot or $5 each Ph 0428504301
30 ton silo $650 ono Ph 0427361940
5 step platform ladder , galvanised, on wheels with brakes $450 Ph 53522691
Archery equipment , 3 compound bows, 35 pound youth bow, 60 pound adult bow, 16 wheeler antique, 1 45 pound Samic longbow, arrows, tool boxes, apres and fletching jig $500 Ph 0429164375
Camping equipment, 2 dome tents, 10 man and 4 man, sleeping chair tent, 3 roll up tables, shower tent, 2 gas stoves, 4 spare bottles, camp kitchen, blow up q/bed $450 Ph 0429164375
Camping Equipment, including as new Yamaha 2KVa inverter generator never used, aqua cube shower, porta potty, Komodo pantry, and clothesline $2500 Ph 0458683879
CCE cage on wheels 6x4 well made $400, 500 gallon ex fuel tank $100, Coolgardie safe $100, Ute crate, 6x4 tub tight $50, Bailey extension ladder 5.3 extends to 6.3 $500, leith grain measuring sheep feeder $1000, new Holland Mower GC with parts, best offer Ph 0429857207
Configura twin motor tilt recliner lift chair, beige vinyl, model S15444, $2500ono, Royale Medical over bed tilting split table $200ono Ph 0428810806 Horsham
Craftsmen ZTS700 ride-on zero-turn mower, good condition, 21 hp engine, reconditioned spindle and deck, many hours left in this machine $2850 Ph Eddy 0428922335
Exercise bike , Horizon Paros Pro, as new $450 Ph 0407553804
Flip Billiard/ Air Hockey table , 110cm x 210cm, accessories included, trailer required $300 Ph 0409122968
Galvanised trailer, 5x5 $800 Ph 53522691
Gold and opal ring, approx 80yrs old, current valuation $4500 would like $2500 Ph 0458014560
Good Clean Faber Beans, 10 tonne ready to sow, graded and treated with cruiser insecticide $650 a tonne plus Gst Ph 0429836055
Hot potato mobile van , bought new 2018, never used $980 ono Ph 0432544164
Invacare Pegasus mobility scooter, excellent condition, includes: shade canopy, front basket & rear carrier, $3500 Ph 0408 826 727
Kirby Avalir 100th Anniversary, EC, clean and functions perfectly, includes filter bags, brand new home care system, all attachments some brand new $750 Ph 0429679481
Metres Console Radio, ex condition Ph 53824316
Omega gold watch , approx 65yrs old, still keeps perfect time $1500ono Ph 0458014560
Pea straw small square bales, $7 per bale, great garden mulch, pickup or delivery to Horsham Ph 0488303725
Rare 1895 Furphy tank, both casts are in good condition $6000 Ph 0428519879
REDUCED 1 Bridgestone Turanza Tyre , R35 55 R17, done 10,000kms $30 Ph0428504558
REDUCED 4KW 240V Generator, gauges and trolley $550 Ph 0428504558
Round bale hay ring $350 Ph 0429200566
Round dining table with 4 velvet chairs $340 Ph 53824788
Sherwell PTO bin $1200 Ph 0428857312
Slow juicer, Kuvings, very good condition, no further use $295 Ph 0408823136
Strongberg Carlson Console Radio, ex condition Ph 53824316
Tradies Trailer enclosed , containing shelving storage, power points $680 ono Ph 0432544164
Turkey Bones for soup or dog food, $3 per kg, Deutscher’s Turkey Farm Dadswells Bridge Ph 53595220
Tyres and rims, brand new from 2023 Dmax, Bridgestone Dueler H/T 265/60R18 $890 lot for 5 tyres and 4 rims Ph 0407553804
Outdoor spa , sapphire, 5 person $4500 Ph 0407285097
Wall unit sliding door & shelves $30, coffee table with tiled top $25, timber corner
or
or
April 16, 2025
7.30pm
A reminder that the Fire Danger Period is scheduled to cease. The Fire Danger Period will terminate at 0100 hours on the dates shown.
www.wellmob.org.au
-Edenhope Rd, North of Macdonald Hwy (tk). Then following Nhill-Harrow (north) to Shire Boundary line).
Information
West Wimmera Shire Council is seeking Expressions of Interest from suitably qualified contractors to undertake a major residential building project in the towns of Edenhope and Kaniva. This project will consist of up to 6 residential constructions subject to funding.
Please call Julie Van Driel on 0428 909 627 for general inquiries or Aaron Shalders for technical information on 0476 448 795. Expressions of Interest close at 5pm on 19th of May 2025.
Expression of Interest documents may be downloaded via Councils e-tendering portal at:
www.eprocure.com.au/westwimmera/ Expressions of Interest will only be accepted if uploaded to the eProcure Portal, during the allotted time the tender is advertised.
Certain restrictions on the lighting of fires are in force during the Fire Danger Period.
Information about fire restrictions within the Country Area of Victoria can be obtained from www.cfa.vic.gov.au, your local CFA District Office or Municipal Fire Prevention Officer. Jason Heffernan
DAVID BEZUIDENHOUT CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Great workers
per hour
Positions available at Wimmera Laundry Services
Multiple positions needed between 10 and 38 hours per week
Please email your details to accounts@regionallaundryservices.com.au
Priceline Pharmacy Horsham is seeking a part time candidate to ll this of ce-based position.
Duties include accounts payable, payroll, BAS, banking, debtor maintenance and bookkeeping in Xero software.
The role is a shared one, however experience in of ce administration is essential.
Applications and enquires to hr@horshampharmacy.com.au by COB, Thursday, April 17, 2025.
Shed Attendant in Piggery
Job Summary:
• Four evenings per week 9hrs per shift
• Must be fully experienced for this position
• Expected Salary $75K
• Accommodation available if required
We are a family owned and operated 350 Sow Farr/ Finish Piggery located at Marnoo West.
As this is a new position we are anticipating the start time to be 4.30pm up to 1.30am, (to be finalised).
Please send resume to Jo: wallaloodowns@hotmail.com
Family Preservation & Reunification - Intensive Family Supports Practitioner
DO YOU HAVE
Knowledge
WE OFFER
Attractive Remuneration
Get in touch for more details: ceo@goolumgoolum.org.au
Closing Date: 5pm 25 April 2025
GWMWater is an innovative and progressive employer committed to contributing to the sustainable growth of communities within the Grampians, Wimmera and Mallee regions.
Manager Communications & Engagement, Horsham
Position number VG/3201A
Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for communication and community engagement? Do you thrive in dynamic environments and have a knack for inspiring, managing, and developing a team for success? We are seeking an experienced and passionate communicator who can drive our digital transformation projects to enhance customer experience.
Applications close: Monday 28 April 2025
GWMWater contact: Adele Rohde, Executive Manager Customer & Employee Experience
Water Treatment Plant Operator, Wimmera-Mallee
Fixed Term: 13 months
Position number VG/5416A
Wim Mix Concrete is seeking a motivated individual to join our team. We offer great conditions, modern equipment, and above Award rates.
Duties Include:
• Oversee the operation of the concrete batch plant.
• Accept, set up and dispatch customer orders, including truck scheduling.
• Follow company policies and procedures including any required training.
Successful applicant must display:
• Concrete industry experience
• Concrete batching experience advantageous (UBatch)
• Front end loader & HR licence advantageous
How to apply:
Submit resume in person (Selkirk Dr, Horsham) or email personnel@conholdings.com.au
For site safety information, company
Do you have great problem-solving skills, can meet deadlines and communicate effectively? If so, we want to hear from you to be part of a dynamic team as our Water Treatment Plant Operator!
Experience in water and wastewater operation and maintenance, or plumbing, electrical or mechanical trades, is desirable.
Applications close: Thursday 24 April 2025
GWMWater contact: Narelle Ezard, People & Culture Officer
GWMWater is committed to achieving ‘Zero Harm’ across all operations. We prioritise a safe working environment, ensuring that everyone returns home safely every day.
As an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, we are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. For confidential support throughout the application process, please contact our People, Culture & Legal division at 1300 659 961 to ensure a fair and inclusive experience.
Subscribe to receive GWMWater job alert emails by visiting gwmwater.org.au/careers
Mark Williams Managing Director
11 McLachlan Street Horsham gwmwater.org.au
VBY DAVID BERRY
olleyball Horsham’s summer season competitions will take a break for the school holidays with ladder-leaders in all grades sitting comfortably on top after strong starts to the season.
In A grade, Phantoms have picked up where they left off last season and sit on top undefeated after five games. Tyler Puls has his team working well together with Tristan Rayes the team’s big improver as a middleattacker, while Noah Werry is setting consistently well.
Dimitrios Vettos’ Hellenic Nuggets sit second on the ladder, and those two teams have stolen a march on the rest of the competition with Heidelberg, Rangers and Tsunami in a threeway battle for the final two spots on the ladder.
In Women’s A, Lily Adams’ Phantoms are also sitting pretty on top with six wins from six starts and are well clear of Kayla Kelm’s Lakers in second, with Laelah Robertson’s Tsunami hot on their heels in third.
The young teams in this competition – WLC Thorns and Heidelberg –are improving each week, and while they may not make it to finals this season, their rapid improvement will see them contend next season without a doubt.
Perennial favourites Waterhammers sit in second place, with CHS Group in third and Von Steiger Bloods holding onto fourth spot just ahead of Cooked.
In B Grade, the Horsham College Wilson team is sitting nicely on top, undefeated after five wins ahead of the WLC Tigers while the Filos, Hurricanes and Phantom Masters are locked in a three-way battle for the last two positions in the top four.
While not quite achieving what they set out to in term one, the WLC Titans will now set their sights on claiming the C Grade title.
Qualifying for SSV state titles was their goal, and while they fell agonisingly short of that goal, the improvement the youngsters from WLC have made over the course of this season will stand them in good stead going forward.
Set For Glory is hot on the heels of the youngsters while Stars and the Dig Dogs round out the top four.
The Von Steiger Sisters have shown the benefit of regular training sitting clear on top of the Women’s B competition undefeated with six wins.
Venjie Munn, Meg Armstrong and May Rosello are leading by example
The A Reserve competition has Delaney Bray’s Heidelberg well clear on top, undefeated with five wins in their bank. The experience of players like Bray, Ronan Garth-Lindsay and Cobba Harrison has enabled them to play good consistent volleyball.
for the Von Steiger Sisters who are sitting on top of the ladder ahead of the two young teams Power Divas and Bombers.
The junior competition is split into Junior A and B with the more experienced teams making up the Junior A competition, while the younger lessexperienced teams are in Junior B.
Eden Pumpa’s Strikers are showing the benefit of having played together for a while now, sitting clear on top ahead of Lacy Perry’s Phantoms, with Shayne Johns’ Stars Blue and Matilda Smith’s WLC Nuggets rounding out the top four.
In Junior B, the new-look Murtoa team has taken an early grip on top spot, but the WLC teams the Cubs, Tigers and Sixers are hot on their heels with any of the four capable of going deep into finals come June.
The improvement the kids are making each week is visible, and the best thing is that all the kids are having fun and enjoying their volleyball irrespective of the scoreline.
Good Friday
Team nominations are rolling in for the Good Friday Lightning Spike with entries closing on Monday. There will be separate competitions for senior and junior teams, with all proceeds raised on the day going to the Royal Children’s Hospital appeal. Visit the Volleyball Horsham socials to enter a team.
CANCER FUNDRAISER: Shirley Sproule, Lyn McCrae, Noela Hair and Elaine Milbourne at Horsham Golf Club Pink Lady Day on Monday. Organiser Noela Hair said 94 golfers played and raised more than $5000 for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation.
Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
Several Wimmera and Grampians region junior cricketers are among Western Waves Country Academy cricket squads announced this month.
The academy program, run by Cricket Victoria, enables talented juniors to train at regional hubs during winter, with an aim of furthering their development in mental, physical, technical and tactical aspects of cricket.
Academy-affiliated juniors are also given an opportunity to try out for the
Western Waves squads to compete in next season’s Cricket Victoria Country Cup.
Among the players named in the Waves academy program were Homers’ Phoenix Hopper in the boys under-16 squad as well as under-15 girls Danielle Armstrong, Grampians; Clair Crute, Horsham Saints; Milla Mitchell, Swifts-Great Western; and Grace Robertson, Tatyoon.
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
Horsham Croquet Club officials are encouraging people to give the sport a go after hosting the first of three player-development workshops planned for this year.
Croquet Victoria coach Maurice Cevaal-Hewitt hosted the workshop for novice players, with two further sessions planned in the next four months.
Horsham Croquet Club assistant secretary Leanda Elliot, who took part in the first workshop, said she enjoyed the session and hoped others would be inspired to try the sport.
“It was for novice players, which means people with a handicap of 10 or above,” she said.
“They’re newer members, and it’s designed to give them skills so they can then go on and compete in tournaments like the tournament we have here.
“There were about 15 people who took part and a few who couldn’t make it.”
Ms Elliot said the Croquet Victoria workshops were supported by a State Government grant, with workshops also scheduled in other locations across country Victoria.
She said the new members would be eagerly practicing their skills ahead of the next workshop in about two months.
“We have two more two-day sessions later on
“We have a casual day on Tuesday afternoons that people can come along to if they’re interested. We’ve got mallets they can use here”
– Leanda Elliot
in the year, so the skills we learned, we’ll be able to practice over the period between the first and second workshops,” she said.
“Hopefully at the end of the three workshops our handicaps will have improved.
“We’ll go home and busily practice for the next few weeks before we have our next workshop.”
Ms Elliot said prospective new club members were welcome to attend regular casual sessions at the club, located in the Horsham Botanic Gardens.
“We have a casual day on Tuesday afternoons that people can come along to if they’re interested. We’ve got mallets they can use here,” she said.
“They can come along and have a go as long as they wear appropriate footwear, which is flat shoes.
“We’d love people to come along and have a go and see if they’re interested.”
People can email horshamcroquetclub@gmail. com for more information.
A masterplan to determine demand for potential facilities at Kaniva Recreation Reserve is being developed by West Wimmera Shire Council. The plan will guide decision-making as well as community and council investment across the next decade, with a focus on improving facilities, increasing participation in sport and active recreation, and ensuring the reserve meets the needs of the community now and into the future. Kaniva Recreation Reserve is home to an oval, netball courts, hockey fields, a skate park, show society buildings, the Kaniva Community Hub, the Kaniva Sporting Complex, and playgrounds. Community members can share their views by completing a survey on the West Wimmera Shire Council website or by collecting a hard copy from the council office at Kaniva.
Drop-in sessions will also be held in front of Doyle’s IGA on Saturday from 9am to 11am and
at Kaniva Recreation Reserve from 1pm to 3pm on the same day.
Bowling club upgrades
Funding for an $825,000 project is sought by West Wimmera Shire Council to help transform the Kaniva Bowling Club into a fully accessible and inclusive facility.
Council will apply for funding from the State Government’s Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund for the proposed project, which will see the construction of a new synthetic bowling green, installation of energy-efficient LED lighting, installations of new accessible toilet facilities, and construction of accessible pathways throughout the facility.
It is hoped the upgrades will provide a modern and accessible environment for both casual bowlers and those with disabilities, and will support the growth of lawn bowls in the region.
BY LAUREN HENRY
Minyip-Murtoa will celebrate its 30th anniversary of the merged club against Dimboola in its opening match of the season on Saturday.
The Wimmera league returns for 2025, with other round one matches Southern Mallee Thunder hosting Stawell; Ararat will play Horsham Demons; while Horsham Saints face Nhill; and Warrack Eagles has a bye.
The Burras will don a special 30th anniversary jumper, featuring the surnames of senior footballers and netballers, a list of all of the club’s premierships and both Murtoa and Minyip club logos prior to the merger.
Minyip-Murtoa Football Netball Club formed in 1995 when rivals Minyip and Murtoa merged to form what was initially a powerhouse club, winning three senior football flags in the first four years. While the club will mark the anniversary with all-day celebrations, starting with juniors in the morning and extending through to an evening function, senior coach Gareth Hose will have his chargers primed to impress in front of a big home crowd at Minyip.
After missing finals in 2024, the Burras are determined to be a top-five side this season – and have recruited and welcomed home several players to make a difference.
Past premiership players Jake Ballagh and Jake Boschen have returned, while other recruits include Aidan Kidd, from South Belgrave; Joe Clancy from Osborne in the Hume league; Cooper Anderson, Donald; and Dustin Okely, Ararat Eagles.
After making quite the impression in his first senior year
of footy, Oscar Gawith, who injured his knee in round 13, will be primed to make a big impact, as will Sam Griffiths, Dusty Cross, and Kade Petering.
But standing in the Burras’ way on Saturday is Dimboola, who have had a change of senior coach in the off-season as Jack Landt steps aside for co-coaches Andrew Moore, a former AFL, VFL and SANFL player, and Roos stalwart Dean Toet.
Landt will remain at the club as a player, as will his brother, Dylan, and key forward Jackson Calder – all coming off seasons in the Northern Territory.
Similarly to the Burras, the Roos come off a disappointing 2024 season – and both sides will be looking to make amends, starting on Saturday.
Tough test
Another club looking for significant improvement this season is Horsham Saints, who will host Nhill.
After finishing seventh last season, the Saints have lost some experienced players in the off-season – and will look more than ever to its rising crop of youngsters.
But the Saints will have a tough task in their opening round – facing a Nhill side that is on the rise.
Led by playing coach Jake McQueen, the Tigers were an exciting prospect last season, and improved as the year progressed.
This year McQueen is joined by the experienced Trevor Ryan, who will co-coach from the sidelines as McQueen tackles the best of the league’s midfielders and leads from the front. Add in a couple of new recruits, and the Tigers look set to make their mark on the Wimmera league.
Consistently making their mark, Southern Mallee Thunder will have a tough task in round one when it faces Stawell.
Playing host at Beulah, the Thunder will aim to bank the early four points against the Warriors, who play their first game under new coaches James Sullivan and the experienced football brain of Perry Meka.
Stawell’s new game plan will be put to the test early – without last year’s coach and longtime Wimmera league superstar Tom Eckel, the Warriors are an unknown quantity and will be one to watch in 2025.
The last time the two sides met was in last season’s preliminary final – where the Thunder scored a big win to progress through to the big dance, which they went on to lose to Ararat.
The reigning premiers will open their premiership defence with a match against Horsham Demons.
Just when Wimmera league fans thought the Rats were at the top of their game, they have further bolstered their playing list – both with more homegrown talent and the recruitment of some handy footballers who just happened to move to Ararat.
Meanwhile the Demons, who have lost a handful of handy senior players in the off-season, are under no illusions that this season will be a challenge. It will be a mammoth effort to knock over the Rats on their home ground – but early season matches can sometimes dish up the most surprising of results – let’s see what round one throws out this weekend.
Junior representative netballers from the Horsham District and Wimmera football netball leagues gathered at Horsham’s Holy Trinity Lutheran College on Sunday for a special clinic run by coaches of the Victorian Netball League’s Melbourne University Lightning.
Horsham District league board member Sharon Fedke said the clinics were about giving some of the region’s best young netballers a chance to witness the professionalism and training methods of top-tier netball competitions.
“It’s just about them having the opportunity to learn and be coached by coaches from that next level up … and showing them a pathway to that next level,” she said.
“Our own Maggie Caris and Lavinia Fox, who have played both Wimmera league and District league [respectively], have done their junior programs through our leagues here and then been able to go onto that next level through the Melbourne Uni Lightning.”
Fedke estimated about 40 netballers took part in the clinics, which Melbourne University Lightning has hosted in Horsham for the past four years.
She said it represented the start of training for representative squads for both leagues, with the District league set to play a tournament in Bendigo on June 1, followed by zone championships and an interleague match later that month.
While Laharum celebrated its 2024 A Grade netball premiership by unfurling a flag in front of its home crowd on Saturday, it received a reminder the road to a repeat will be full of obstacles.
Despite going undefeated last season, the Demons were nearly handed a first-up loss by Kalkee, coming from two goals down at three-quarter time to win 44-43.
Playing without Caitlin Jones-Story, who will be a sideline assistant coach this season, the Demons leaned heavily on goal attack Maddie Iredell for scoring, with Courtney Taylor and Jemma Thomas also rotating through goals.
At the other end, shooter Jarrah Martin stood out for the Kees, shooting 30 goals, and looked to have her side on track for a win after putting them ahead 43-41 with less than three minutes remaining.
From the subsequent centre pass the Kees pushed forward again, but Martin’s shot to virtually seal the game came up short and Laharum whisked the ball away for a quick goal.
Iredell goaled again to tie the scores after a trademark offensive rebound, and desperate work by Thomas to save a deflected ball in the centre third set up her game-winning score.
While beaten, the Kees showed they will remain premiership threats this season, as will 2024 runner-up Rupanyup, which demolished Kaniva-Leeor United 65-16 in front of its home crowd.
Panthers goalie Zanaiya Bergen shot 35 goals, but it was defender Lucy Bussenschutt who stood out, while midcourters Zoe Hawker and Lauren Brown put forth good efforts for the Cougars.
Edenhope-Apsley also signalled its premiership credentials with a 59-44 win against Pimpinio, with 35 goals from coach Lavinia Fox leading the way, while Tahlia Thompson scored 23 for the Tigers.
A strong second half from Swifts saw the team overcome Natimuk United 46-34 on the road, with Jade Ralph stout in defence and Rebekkah Seeary on song in goals, while captain Danielle Hanson did her best to lift the Rams.
Taylors Lake supporters had plenty to smile about as their side downed Harrow-Balmoral, building on a six-goal lead in the first quarter to hold on to win 44-36, with Kayla Kelm and goalie Tayla Eltze leading the way.
For the Roos, coach Emily Langley and goalie Brittany Burns were the top performers.
Harrow-Balmoral will be tested again this weekend as it hosts Laharum, with Noradjuha-Quantong to play its first game in a home blockbuster against Rupanyup, while Edenhope-Apsley is away to Swifts, Taylors Lake travels to Pimpinio and KanivaLeeor United hosts Natimuk United.
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
The Horsham District Football
Netball League returned with a bang at the weekend, as a series of intriguing results offered hints at an entertaining season ahead.
Two-time reigning premier HarrowBalmoral kicked off its flag defence with an away game against Taylors Lake, and while the Roos emerged victorious, the fruits of the Lakers’ off-season recruiting drive were on display.
In their lone meeting last season Harrow-Balmoral dismantled Taylors Lake by 178 points, but on Saturday the plucky Lakers refused to be blown away.
Trailing by 25 points at quarter time and 36 at the half, the Lakers played the Roos to a virtual standstill in the second half to go down 17.12 (114) to 11.10 (76).
Bray Cullinan picked up where he left off last season, kicking two goals from the midfield for Taylors Lake, while Dimboola recruit Patrick Lindsey had a solid debut for his new club. Meanwhile for the Roos, playing coach Jai Thompson showed the form that took him to last season’s Dellar
Medal, kicking two goals, while Michael Close repelled numerous attacks across half back and Cody Deutscher booted four majors.
Pimpinio showed it will not be content to rest on its laurels after breaking a 15-year finals drought last season, smothering Edenhope-Apsley 21.13 (139) to 6.5 (41) at Edenhope.
Only errant kicking kept the contest close at quarter time, with the Tigers booting 4.6 to the Saints’ 2.0 in the first term, but once the likes of Nick Groves, five goals, and Dylan Bates, four, found their range, Pimpinio ran away with the game.
Veteran midfielder Matt Rosier put in a best-on-ground performance for Pimpinio with three majors, while Edenhope-Apsley half-backs Clint Rokebrand and Josh La Rocca did their best to drive the Saints forward.
Laharum also showed a hunger for further success in 2025, defeating Kalkee 13.16 (94) to 3.8 (26) at Cameron Oval.
A six-goal haul from youngster Chase Whelan showed why co-coaches Shannon Argall and Robbie Miller are excited about Laharum’s development potential this year, while Todd
Heynen slotted seamlessly back into the side across half back.
Veteran Ben Lawson led from the front for the Kees, kicking two goals, while Charlie Millar stamped himself as a young player to watch for the side.
Swifts’ quest for a grand final appearance got off to a good start against Natimuk United, with the Baggies running away after half-time to win 13.17 (95) to 5.4 (34) at Natimuk Showgrounds.
The Baggies shared the load in attack with 10 individual goal kickers, but it was captain Liam Scott who won plaudits for his work at centrehalf-back, helping keep the Rams to only two behinds after half time. Natimuk United, which remains among the league’s youngest sides this season, was best served by Horsham Saints recruits Drew Harris and Mitchell Clark, while Kyah Wilkinson also impressed.
Tight match
The closest game of the round was played at Rupanyup Recreation Reserve, with the Panthers coming from behind to defeat visiting Kaniva-Leeor United 13.8 (86) to 11.9 (75).
Panthers co-coach Daniel Schaper admitted the Cougars got the better of his side in the first term, but praised his players for responding well to a series of tactical adjustments.
“We put Jesse Jesson into the forward line, and we also put Max Sudholz from a wing into the forward line in order to match up a bit better,” he said.
“We got our match-ups right down back and the midfielders probably became a bit more accountable after quarter time.
“We didn’t want to be bees to a honeypot, we wanted to hold our space out on the wings because they were killing us on the overlap.
“Once we got our structures right we were able to play the brand of footy that we want to play.”
Leading the way for the Panthers was Daniel Weetra, whose presence was felt across half-back all day.
Weetra was one of several former Rupanyup premiership players to return to the club during the summer, along with the likes of Mitch Musgrove and Joe Tormey, who also impressed, while Domonic Grant showed he will be a handy inclusion
with a long-range goal in the first quarter.
While beaten, the Cougars can be encouraged by the debuts of brothers Jacob and Lochie Eats, the former of whom kicked four goals while the latter was a standout in the midfield alongside Sam Vivian.
With a match against 2024 runnerup Noradjuha-Quantong looming this weekend, Schaper said the Panthers would again need to limit their opposition’s ability to hurt them on the outside.
“[Noradjuha-Quantong] have obviously recruited pretty well after playing in the grand final last year,” he said.
“They defend really well and then create good attack from their wingers and half-backs.
“We’ll try to get our match ups right. Obviously they’ve got [Dylan] Shelley and [Brock] Orval up forward who can create havoc.”
Other matches this weekend are Harrow-Balmoral host Laharum at Balmoral; Taylors Lake travelling to play Pimpinio; Swifts at home to Edenhope-Apsley; and Natimuk United take on the Cougars in Kaniva.
Netball League board members Paula Wiedermann and Ben Tait mark HDFNL joining the CoRE Alliance to promote gender equality and social change.
Horsham District Football Netball League, HDFNL, is now a member of Women’s Health Grampians’ Communities of Respect and Equality, CoRE, Alliance.
HDFNL joins the Wimmera Football Netball League and now also AFL Wimmera Mallee Umpires to promote gender equality and social change.
The alliance is a partnership of organisations, businesses, clubs and groups who share a vision for safe, equal and respectful communities in the Grampians region.
HDFNL deputy chair Ben Tait said the HDNFL recognised the powerful role that sport played in shaping communities, and driving positive social change.
“Our clubs are more than just teams, they are hubs of connection, belonging, and leadership within our rural and regional areas,” he said.
“By joining the CoRE Alliance, we are strengthening our commitment to gender equality, respect, and the prevention of violence against women.
“We believe that through our actions, we can set a standard that promotes fairness, safety, and equality for all.”
Mr Tait said football and netball clubs were at the heart of the community in regional areas, influencing attitudes and behaviours.
“We understand that true leadership goes beyond the scoreboard, it’s about creating a culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and safe,” he said.
“The HDFNL is proud to take this step towards a more inclusive future. We encourage all clubs, players, and supporters to join us in embracing this commitment.”
Through its commitment to the CoRE Alliance, the HDNFL will aim to challenge outdated stereotypes and champion inclusion within the league; inspire players, coaches, and supporters to be active allies in promoting respect and equality; create safer club environments where discrimination, harassment, and violence have no place; and lead by example, using sport as a platform to inspire change across the wider
Injury and illness were not enough to stop Wimmera athlete Asha Meek from finishing in the top 10 in under-16 girls heptathlon at the Australian Athletics Championships in Perth. Meek finished the heptathlon, which ranked competitors based on a combined score from seven events across Saturday and Sunday, in seventh place with 3934 points – a personal best points result.
Wimmera athletics coach Ricky Price said despite the untimely illness and a nagging hip injury that interrupted her preparation in the lead-up to the championships, Meek had outperformed her own expectations.
“Although somewhat of a struggle over the last few weeks … she has performed very well,” he said.
“Still lots of improvement to come and more experience will set her up well for the future.”
Meek ran fourth-fastest of the competitors in the 90-metre hurdles on Saturday, running a time of 14.31 seconds into a strong headwind, and recorded a near personal best of 1.39 metres in high jump.
Sitting in seventh position at the end of Saturday, Meek recorded a personal-best throw of 28.93 metres in javelin to finish fifth, and then finished seventh in the 800 metres.
