The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, August 27, 2025

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Mine pipeline starts

Construction will soon begin on an 11-kilometre pipeline to enable water for the Donald Mineral Sands project, south-east of Minyip.

The pipeline connects into the Wimmera-Mallee Pipeline system via a GWMWater pipeline at the Gun Club Road pump station, travelling to the mine site.

DMS is paying for the pipeline, but it will be owned and operated by GWMWater, allowing for other users to also source water from the pipeline. Work on the pipeline, in the public road reserve along Minyip-Banyena Road and Gun Club Road to Walsh Lane, is due to start next week.

The pipeline will allow for the installation of water supply infrastructure for the mine, which expects to draw between two and three gigalitres of water from the pipeline annually.

In 2011, DMS purchased a 6.975-gigalitre water entitlement from GWMWater for $17.95-million.

The entitlement came from savings created by the Wimmera-Mallee Pipeline project.

A DMS spokesperson said DMS would also pay ongoing fixed charges and water use charges once the pipeline was operational.

The spokesperson said the water entitlement was subject to the annual allocation in any particular year to which the Wimmera-Glenelg system

storage manager allocated to entitlement holders.

“The DMS allocation is no more secure than other entitlements. DMS’ total water usage across all sources will vary depending on operational requirements,” he said.

“Holding a secure allocation of 6.975 gigalitres means that if an allocation of 50 per cent or less is provided in any one year, DMS still has enough water to operate.”

Ryan Milgate, whose farm neighbours the land set to be mined and is a member of the Dunmunkle Land Protection Group, said there was concern in the community and agricultural industry about how much water the mine would use.

“ GWMWater hasn’t convinced us properly yet that they have the capacity to supply the water to the mine and that no other existing customer will be any worse off than they are now,” he said.

Mr Milgate said his estimates showed rural customers – not those in town – used between 6.5 to nine gigalitres a year, and DMS was set to use two to three gigalitres.

“That’s coming up to half what the whole of the rest of the rural demand on the pipeline system is,” he said.

“Given it’s one supply line – the line they run on keeps going north and ends up at Woomelang – the question is ‘are the people at Woomelang going to be any worse off in the middle of

summer when DMS is pulling a heap of water out?’.

“Is the pipeline going to be sufficient? I’m not thoroughly convinced that those calculations are done. I don’t know, but we’re looking for answers on it.”

Mr Milgate said there was also concern in the community about enough water being secured for recreational lakes when the region experienced years of low rainfall.

The DMS spokesperson said DMS was committed to responsible and efficient water use, through multiple sources and reuse, ensuring operations did not impact community water security.

Continued page 3

RELATABLE: Horsham College’s production 13 The Musical opens at Horsham Town Hall tomorrow night, with seasoned performers from its student body telling the story of teenagers growing up and fitting in. The family-friendly production will be paired with a foyer display of resources available to young people in the Wimmera who may need support. Limited tickets are still available from the Horsham Town Hall website and box office for Thursday, Friday and Saturday shows, starting at 7.30pm each night. Tiffany Petering, Piper Taylor, Isaac Gregor, Isabella Iuele and Ray Barr are pictured portraying the ‘jocks’. More pictures, page 19.
Picture: PAUL CARRACHER.

HRCC NEWS

Youth Council officially sworn in, ready to make an impact

The latest group of Youth Councillors in Horsham has officially started their two-year term, with 11 young leaders, aged 11 to 18, now set to represent the diverse voices of young people in the municipality. The swearing-in ceremony held recently marked the beginning of this dynamic group’s journey to shape community decisions, programs, and opportunities for their peers.

During the ceremony, the Youth Councillors delivered a remarkable presentation to an audience of families, Councillors, CEO, Directors and other Council staff, where they confidently shared their vision and values.

Survey flyer circulating — Not associated with Council

Council wishes to alert residents to a recent flyer that has been distributed to mailboxes across the municipality.

Please be aware that this flyer is not endorsed, produced, or distributed by Council. The flyer with the heading 'What would you like to see in Horsham' contains a survey that is not affiliated with any Council initiative or program, and residents are advised to take caution when responding or providing any personal information via this survey.

Q02-2026

ALBERT STREET, BOWDEN STREET AND RAILWAY AVENUE SPEED TREATMENTS

Closes Wednesday 27 August

26-005

OCALLAGHANS PARADE UPGRADE - FIREBRACE STREET TO HOCKING STREET HORSHAM

Closes Tuesday 5 September

HAVE YOUR SAY

ROAD MANAGEMENT PLAN REVIEW

“This is an exciting time for our community,” said Mayor Cr Ian Ross

“The energy, confidence, and dedication shown by our new Youth Councillors speaks volumes about the future leaders in our region. I am proud to witness this group of young people take charge and offer their perspectives on the issues that matter most to them. I look forward to working with them as they help shape the future of our community,” Cr Ross said.

The Youth Council serves as a vital mechanism for representing, promoting, and amplifying the voices of young people in the Horsham community.

Seniors Month grant expressions of interest close this Friday

Horsham Rural City Council is seeking to partner with community groups to create memorable events for the Victorian Seniors Festival 2025.

The Festival will run throughout the month of October this year, offering a range of affordable and accessible events for seniors to participate in.

Council has a small amount of funding provided by the State Government to support the Victorian Seniors Festival.

Grants of up to $300 can be used to cover event costs such as venue hire, catering and promotion.

Events will also be promoted through the Victorian Seniors Festival program and Council media and communications.

If your community group is interested in hosting an event during the Seniors Festival please complete the Expression of Interest form online.

You are encouraged to contact Council's Grants Team on 53829777 if you require assistance to complete the online form or would like to discuss the event and how it can be supported.

The closing date for Expressions of Interest for the Horsham Seniors Festival is Friday 29 August. This will allow time for Council to allocate funding and start promoting events in September 2025.

Get involved and together we can look forward to an exciting Seniors Festival later in the year.

In today's digital age, it’s crucial to remain vigilant about unexpected communication—whether it's a physical flyer or an email in your inbox. Scammers can disguise their appearance to appear legitimate in order to trick people into sharing sensitive details. Always double-check the source before responding or sharing your data.

If you ever receive something claiming to be from Council and you’re unsure whether it’s genuine, please reach out directly to Horsham Rural City Council’s Customer Service team on 5382 9777 or email council@hrcc.vic.gov.au.

Council condemns racism targeting Barengi Gadjin Land Council

is dismayed by the recent appearance of racially motivated stickers aimed at the Barengi Gadjin Land Council (BGLC) scattered across the CBD.

This racially targeted vandalism is wholly unacceptable. While Council staff have removed the offensive materials, doing so has diverted time and resources from other services.

BGLC stands as a legitimate, legally recognised authority and represents the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia, and Jupagulk Peoples.

“BGLC is an integral partner in our region’s heritage and governance. We stand united against racism and condemn these actions in the strongest possible terms," Mayor Cr Ross said.

Together, let us ensure our community is a place of inclusion and respect.

Next Council Meeting: Monday, September 22, 2025 - 5.30pm Horsham Rural City Council: 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham | Postal

The Road Management Plan is a document that describes the responsibilities for road management, including those of Council, landowners and a range of utilities.

For Council, it also identifies the thresholds at which a defect in the road or its surrounds triggers a maintenance response, and the timeframe for those responses.

The Road Management Plan establishes the minimum maintenance standards Council aims to achieve in relation to its road network (rural and urban). This includes aspects like:

• The frequency of inspection of different classes of roads and footpaths

• The size of defects at which an intervention is triggered

• The response time for different types of defects.

You can have your say by submitting an online feedback form, emailing your feedback to council@hrcc.vic.gov.au or posting your feedback to Horsham Rural City Council, PO Box 511, Horsham VIC 3402 before Wednesday 17 September.

HOUSING STRATEGY FOR HORSHAM

Council has prepared a Draft Housing Strategy to guide how much housing is required and where it will be provided across the municipality to 2041.

The Draft Strategy responds to changing community needs and supports and advocates for more diverse and affordable housing options. It will help to ensure development is well-planned, well located and supported by infrastructure.

Our Strategy includes actions for things we can control (land supply and approvals) and advocacy priorities for things that require support and action from State and Federal Governments to improve housing construction, diversity and choice.

You can have your say by visiting the page on Engage Horsham or by attending a drop in session at:

•Natimuk NC2 - Tuesday 9 September 4.30-6.30pm

•Civic Centre - Wednesday 10 September 4.30-6.30pm

For details visit the Engage Horsham section of HRCC's website

| Email: council@hrcc.vic.gov.au | Web: www.hrcc.vic.gov.au

Mayor Cr Ian Ross speaking at the Youth Council swearing in ceremony.
Council

Council steps up lobbying

Horsham Rural City Council

will lobby the Municipal Association of Victoria State Council to pressure the state and federal government to further fund the duplication of the Western Highway.

At Monday night’s council meeting, Horsham councillors were strong in their highway safety plea, opting to seek MAV support to signal to governments the significance of the issue to all councils in Victoria.

The Horsham council will submit the motion to the MAV State Council to support the 10 member councils of the Western Highway Action Committee, WHAC, in calling for both governments to ensure sufficient funding and expedite the required legal and administrative processes to enable the delayed section of works near Ararat to recommence as soon as possible.

Pipeline plan

From page 1

“On top of a low-reliability entitlement, recreational lakes have benefited from security over the past 15 years due to GWMWater underwriting an allocation from its consumptive water holding,” the spokesperson said.

“The water savings the WimmeraMallee Pipeline project generated is supporting new industry, like the Donald Project, which in turn will bring significant employment and economic benefits to the region.”

All pipeline work, to be carried out by Horsham-based contractors CHS Group, will be from 7am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday, and is expected to be completed by December.

DMS says access will be maintained for road and landholder access.

The pipeline is part of DMS’ preparation works following State Government approval of a project work plan in June.

“The investment required to build the pipeline is obviously a sign that the project will proceed as planned,” the DMS spokesperson said.

The pipeline is enabling infrastructure, carrying water that will be used for construction and operations.

The Donald Project remains subject to a final investment decision by the Donald Mineral Sands board.

The Donald Project, trading as Donald Mineral Sands, DMS, is a joint venture between Astron Corporation and United States critical minerals company Energy Fuels Inc. Operations will include the mining of 7.5 million tonnes of mineral sands annually for 19 years.

“This project is imperative, in light of the continuing numbers of serious accidents, including fatalities, on that particularly perilous section of the Western Highway, which affects all western Victorians, as well as interstate travellers, including B-double and road train heavy vehicles, and tourists,” the submission reads.

The motion will be made, in understanding the highway duplication from Ballarat to Stawell was scheduled to be completed in 2018.

Cr Angela Munn said the motion was about  standing together for a safer future for ‘our families and for everyone else who travels this road’.

“The section from Buangor to Stawell has been overdue for duplication for quite some time, and unfortunately, this stretch has seen several serious accidents and tragic fatalities,” she said.

“Making this highway safer will

benefit everyone, local families, freight drivers and visitors to and through our region.”

Cr Brian Klowss said since the work stopped on the duplication in 2018, there had been eight fatalities and 30 serious injuries suffered in crashes on the highway.

“ I think this motion for the MAV reflects exactly what the community wants and deserves,” he said.

Cr Rebecca Sluggett said banding together with other councils and working in collaboration gave greater weight to the funding push.

“One council complaining about a significant highway not being duplicated is one thing, but for 10 councils to get together and say ‘this is not good enough, please help us’ makes a bigger impact,” she said.

“ This particular piece of road is increasingly creating a workplace risk to those in the transport industry as

well as all those in the community who have to travel down it regularly and sometimes now we’re doing that just to get basic health and wellbeing services.”

Cr Sluggett said the MAV was Victorian councils’ main advocacy body and a key pathway to lobby for funding from the State Government.

Mayor Ian Ross said the highway was so important to the region.

“It’s dangerous, and we look at how much the State Government is spending in urban areas – it’s a very, very small amount of money in comparison,” he said.

“Tunnels have been drilled, billions and billions of dollars are being spent in the urban areas.

“It’s time that projects are developed in the rural areas for the safety of our community.”

Volunteers out in force for annual appeal

Legacy Badge Week launches across the country on Sunday, with badges, pens, keychains and serviceuniformed teddies to be sold by volunteer groups, to support war widows.

Legatees will operate collection points at Birchip, Dimboola, Donald,

Hopetoun, Nhill, Rainbow and Warracknabeal, while stands at Horsham Plaza, Bunnings and Horsham Post Office will be operated by Legatees alongside Army Reserve, Lions Club and individual volunteers.

Proceeds assist mainly Second World War veterans’ widows with

expenses such as heating costs during winter, and allow recognition on their birthdays and the giving of Christmas presents.

Money raised by the Wimmera branch of Melbourne Legacy remains in the area to support its 60 widows.

Racist stickers removed

Horsham Rural City Council has condemned the appearance of racially motivated stickers aimed at the Barengi Gadjin Land Council, BGLC, scattered across Horsham city centre.

The stickers, put on parking meter boxes and other places, say ‘Don’t take a knee to BGLC’, and are thought to be in reference to BGLC’s involvement with protecting cultural heritage sites at Mount Arapiles.

A member of the public discovered the stickers last week, reporting it to BGLC and to the council.

Council staff removed the offensive materials last week.

Mayor Ian Ross said the racially targeted vandalism was ‘wholly unacceptable’ and strongly condemned the racism targeting BGLC.

“These disgraceful stickers are not mere acts of vandalism, it’s directed at a body with meaningful cultural and legal authority, and this behaviour has no place here,” he said.

“BGLC is an integral partner in our region’s heritage and governance.

“We stand united against racism and condemn these actions in the strongest possible terms.”

Council urges all members of the community to call out all socially unacceptable and non-inclusive behaviour including racism, and to immediately report any incidents of racially targeted vandalism or graffiti to council or police.

In April, council made a statement regarding racism in the community, after Barengi Gadjin Land Council, Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative, and other community groups reported continued examples of racism in the Wimmera.

“Together, let us ensure our community is a place of inclusion and respect,” Cr Ross said.

BGLC is a legally recognised authority and represents the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia, and Jupagulk people, recognised through a Federal Court Native Title Consent Determination in December 2005.

BGLC is also appointed as the Registered Aboriginal Party under Victoria’s Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006, granting formal responsibility for managing cultural heritage in the region.

BGLC did not wish to make a comment on the racist stickers.

GWMWater’s Customer and Stakeholder Workshop will be held on Friday 12 September 2025, starting at 9.30 am.

Topics for discussion include our customer survey results, water resource position and outlook, and the potential to use groundwater to supplement urban water supply. We hope you can join us!

Date: Friday 12 September 2025 Time: 9.30 am - 1 pm (lunch included)

Location: Horsham Golf Club (or option to join online) Register: gwmwater.org.au/stakeholderworkshop

SUPPORTERS: Horsham Army Reserve unit, 128 Transport Troop members Lance Corporal Gerard Emmett and Private Garry Hallam get behind Legacy Badge Week. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Downton Abbey : The Grand Finale

When Mary finds herself in a public scandal and the family faces financial trouble, the household grapples with the threat of social disgrace. The Crawleys must embrace change with the next generation leading Downton Abbey into the

Thursday, September 11, 2025 5

6.30pm for a 7pm movie at Horsham Centre Cinema

$35pp includes choice of Bubbles, wine, beer or soft drink and nibbles

Limited tickets for sale at Horsham Plaza Management office

Payment accepted by cash.

Enquiries Allison Roberts 0407 565 103

Proceeds to WHCG Friends of the Foundation and Rotary Club Supported Groups in need

Wind farm developer WestWind has prepared an Environment Effects Statement, EES, for public feedback on its Warracknabeal Energy Park project.

WestWind will also host an afterhours drop-in information sharing event at its Warracknabeal office tomorrow, extending on its office hours, which is open to the community for the duration of its EES public exhibition period.

The 26,000-hectare farm is set to be one of Australia’s largest, with up to 219 turbines across two sites near Warracknabeal – one five kilometres northwest, the other eight kilometres southwest.

The Victorian planning minister determined in 2023 that an EES was required for the park, given its potential for a range of significant effects on matters of biodiversity, Aboriginal cultural heritage, and landscape and visual amenity.

Informing the EES, technical assessments were made on effects and impacts on air quality, noise and vibration, landscape and visual, ecology, shadow flicker, bushfire risk, land use and planning, traffic and aviation impact, cultural and historic heritage, socio-economic, electromagnetic interference, and surface and ground water.

The planning minister will assess the effects to determine whether the project has acceptable environmental outcomes.

EESs are conducted on a caseby-case basis.

“This will change our community, skyline and living conditions forever,”

– Ross Johns

WestWind Energy’s head of development for Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia, Michael Jones, said the process was ‘very thorough’.

“The preparation of an EES is considered to be the most rigorous and transparent form of environmental assessment in Victoria,” he said.

Mr Jones encouraged people to visit the office at 104 Scott Street, Warracknabeal, to find out more about the project.

“Our project office will be open every Monday and Thursday throughout the exhibition period for the public to read and discuss the EES,” he said.

“Members of the team will also be available at our after-hours drop in event this Thursday from 5pm to 8pm.”

Wimmera Mallee Environmental and Agricultural Protection Association president Ross Johns also encouraged people to review the EES and make submissions.

“This is major industrial infrastructure in our rural community – this will change our community, skyline and living conditions forever,” he said.

“The cumulative impacts of so many wind projects on our unique Australian wildlife and habitat cannot be understated.

“There are also serious impacts on our clean and safe food pro-

WestWind drop-in

duction – 60 kilograms of blade shedding per turbine per year on crops and animals grown underneath and nearby.”

Mr Johns said the construction phase of up to five years would cause congestion, noise and destruction of roads.

“Council will not be able to keep up with it,” he said.

“The government has given us 30 business days to respond to the EES.

“Please contact WestWind Energy for a copy and tell the government what you think about this project, or online to warracknabeal energypark.com.au/ees.

“This is your last chance to make a difference.”

The park is in its environmental assessment, planning and permitting phase, and once established, will have the capacity to supply enough electricity to meet 12.5 per cent of Victoria’s energy needs.

The EES is in its submission stage, which will be followed by hearing stages, before reporting is due early next year.

Fostering a love of reading

Horsham Special School captains officially opened the school’s library as part of Book Week celebrations last week.

and the themes of the room. “I love the Aboriginal art, it’s really pretty,” she said.

The EES is also available for viewing at Yarriambiack Shire Council office, and Warracknabeal Library.

People can also request digital and printed copies of the EES on the Warracknabeal Energy Park website.

Written submissions must be made during the public exhibition period, until September 30, via the Engage Victoria website at engage.vic.gov.au/warracknabealinquiry.

The library relied on a grant from book store Dymocks and work by staff in the 18-month incorporation of the library into the school’s play-based learning space.

Captain Natalie Fox said the space offered more than an opportunity for reading.

“People can come here for peace and quiet, and some mindfulness,” she said.

“When you get a bit sad or upset, it’s really important to take yourself out of that and do something quiet.”

Natalie said she liked the new furniture

Teacher Lisa Ward was instrumental in establishing the library.

“There are a couple of little refinements that we still have to make, but we really want to celebrate the new space in the school,” she said.

“We’ve got a whole heap of brand new children’s books that we got with a grant from Dymocks, so we were able to really stock up.

“It’s a great space to foster the love of reading and enhance play based learning.”

OFFICIAL: Captains Robbie Turmine and Natalie Fox open Horsham Special School’s new library.
Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

String of fraudulent charges

AHorsham family and three Horsham businesses have been caught up in a man’s alleged fraudulent activities.

The former Horsham man faces 28 charges of fraudulently obtaining money from various alleged victims – including $1.193-million from his Horsham family.

The man cannot be named due to Horsham Magistrates’ Court granting a suppression order on August 14.

He will face court at a later date in relation to the charges.

The man faces charges of deceptively purporting to have bought a boat, dishonestly obtaining property to the value of $4200 from an Ararat man in August, 2022.

The man then allegedly deceptively

purported to have repairs carried out on the boat, further dishonestly obtaining $1675.

He is also charged with similar offences regarding the importation of roof-top tents, with the same victim paying the man two separate payments of $2000 and $6000.

The man then allegedly made false documents with the intention to induce the same victim to accept documents as being genuine and making the victim believe he had received amounts of $375,000 and $85,000.

In Horsham in 2023, the accused purported to have been victim to fraud himself – resulting in his bank accounts being frozen and unable to access $2-million.

He used this information to then

allegedly dishonestly obtain amounts of $315,000 and $878,000 from another victim.

In February and March 2023, the man allegedly produced false documents on three separate occasions in relation to a house deposit.

Also in February 2023, the man allegedly deceptively purported to suffer cancer and require medical treatment, obtaining $9400 from a victim in Horsham.

The man continued to purport to have cancer and in April 2023, allegedly dishonestly obtained amounts of $200 and $400 from another victim.

In March 2023, the accused also allegedly made false documents in a bid to induce another victim to believe he had earned a financial advantage.

The man is also charged with offences that allegedly occurred later in 2023, making false documents in relation to two purchases – valued at $85,759 and $70,000 – at a Horsham car dealership, and a $69,830 purchase at another Horsham car dealership.

He is also charged twice with attempting to commit obtaining property by deception.

In late 2023, the man allegedly made false documents to make another victim believe they would soon receive $2.6-million.

He is also charged with three offences of using identification information from email accounts to facilitate obtaining property by deception.

Welfare advocating continues 110 years on

Australia’s oldest veterans’ charity is marking the 110th anniversary of the passing of a meeting’s motion at the Overseas Club in Melbourne, that formed its inception as the Returned Soldiers Association.

Established in 1915 while Australian soldiers were still fighting in Gallipoli, the association’s focus was to advocate for the welfare of returned soldiers.

Early motions of the committee included free public transport, reduced entry fees to the theatre, and most importantly, the establishment of welfare for sick and injured soldiers.

Victoria’s RSA was quickly followed by similar associations in other states, before the national Returned Sailors and Soldiers Imperial League of Australia was formed in 1916, with its name later changed to the Returned and Services League, RSL.

Horsham RSL president Gareth Lane said the charity’s focus had not changed; it still played a critical role in providing assistance to veterans and their families.

“We have a very good support group here, with our welfare committee and our veterans’ advocate Lou Rothery, who supports nearly 100 members in the area,” he said.

“We provide the veterans around town with simple things to help out around the household, such as ongoing yard maintenance care, financial aid for those who are under hardship, and outings.”

Morning teas, monthly dinners, Christmas bus trips and gift packs, home visits, free transport to medical appointments, access to lost or unpre-

sented medals, DVA-card-accessed free monthly cinema screenings, yoga and newsletters are also among the RSL’s services.

“A couple of years ago, Lou helped start an annual open day called Open Gate 128, which is our army reserve unit,” Mr Lane said.

“It’s now been taken over by the troop, and is open to the public as a recruitment drive, and a lot of us ex-members go just to catch up every year, too.”

Looking to the future, Mr Lane said Horsham RSL was trying to attract younger members to its volunteer

base. “A lot of our committee members are getting older and ageing now, so we are looking at trying to get more younger members to get more people into these committees,” he said.

“It’s not just us here in Horsham, I think it’s RSL Australia-wide, where a lot of the younger members just don’t want to be involved.

“We still have a lot of people who do serve, and people can have issues just for their service.

“One of the local training members here in Horsham, Bob Lockwood, who is an ex-president, spent most of

his career doing a bit of peacekeeping at Bougainville.

“And then you’ve got young blokes who come in and they’re in the Army for six months and all of a sudden they’re in Iraq, Afghanistan, fighting, it’s really strange, that way.”

Veterans or their family members who need assistance, or people who are interested in volunteering to assist the delivery of RSL’s services, can call Horsham RSL on 5382 5222.

– Bronwyn Hastings

Recreation lakes transfer

GWMWater has confirmed it plans to allocate water to support pipelinesupplied recreation lakes this summer.

The GWMWater board has approved the transfer of up to 1850 megalitres from its urban and rural water holdings to the Recreation Water Entitlement, ensuring water supplies for 14 lakes and weirs across the region.

A further 680 megalitres of highreliability Murray and Goulburn entitlements will be used to supply Ouyen Lake and Green Lake at Sea Lake.

The full list of recreation lakes and weir pools to receive a water allocation are: Beulah Weir Pool; Brim Weir Pool; Donald Caravan Park Lake; Green Lake, near Sea Lake; Lake Lascelles at Hopetoun; Lake Marma at Murtoa; Ouyen Lake; Rainbow Lake; Tchum Lake at Birchip; Walkers Lake at Avon Plains; Warracknabeal Weir Pool; Watchem Lake; Wooroonook Lake; and Yaapeet Lake.

GWMWater managing director Mark Williams said supply to recreation lakes was a priority outcome for the Wimmera-Mallee Pipeline.

“Water for recreation remains a high priority for our communities and visitors alike. It supports local economies, encourages tourism, and adds significantly to the liveability of towns across the Wimmera and Mallee,” he said.

Recreational lakes supplied via the Wimmera Mallee Pipeline have been consistently underwritten by GWMWater for more than 15 years using unused growth water.

In 2024-25, 2699 megalitres was delivered to Grampians-supplied lakes, with 753 megalitres carried over into the new season – leaving a shortfall of about 1850 megalitres , which will now be made up from GWMWater’s urban and rural holdings.

Mr Williams said the supply would not compromise water supply to other GWMWater customers.

“Transfers will start this month, which is normally a low demand period in the rural pipeline network,” he said.

A recent study revealed that 10 key pipeline-supplied recreation lakes contributed $8-million to the regional economy each year.

In addition to the allocations, the storage manager has authorised the transfer of 12,360 megalitres from Rocklands Reservoir to Taylors Lake, which began on August 18.

Mr Williams said the transfer was essential to ensure an adequate supply was held in Taylors Lake to meet expected environmental demand for the 2025-26 water year, while also providing recreational value and acting as a backup supply for the WimmeraMallee Pipeline.

If you are experiencing difficulty in paying your water bill and would like support to manage your payments, we’re here to listen and assist you where we can. Our customer service team can help with a range of options including:

MILESTONE: Returned and Services League, RSL, is set to mark its 110th anniversary. Horsham RSL president Gareth Lane said the charity’s focus has remained the same from day one – to provide assistance to veterans and their families.
Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Party leader guest

Aformer business owner turned political aspirant will address a meeting of the Victorian Farmers Federation, VFF, Wimmera branch in Horsham on Monday.

Ian Cook, the founder of Ian Cook’s Fair Go Party, will speak about his journey into politics following the closure of his catering business, I Cook Foods, in a 2019 saga known as ‘slug gate’.

I Cook Foods was ordered to close by thenchief health officer Brett Sutton after an investigation by Greater Dandenong Council linked the business to a listeria infection found in a woman who died at Knox Private Hospital.

A subsequent inspection by a council health inspector allegedly discovered a slug on the floor of the I Cook Foods facility, used as evidence of unsanitary conditions.

Mr Cook has maintained the slug was planted by the inspector as part of a conspiracy to close his business, which was a competitor to another catering company, The Community Chef, that was partially owned by the then-council chief executive.

In 2023 the Supreme Court of Victoria ruled Mr Sutton unfairly shut down I Cook Foods, but dismissed Mr Cook’s claim for millions of dollars in compensation.

Mr Cook said the incident led him to found the Fair Go Party on an anti-corruption platform. He said he would outline the party’s position to Wimmera VFF members at Monday night’s meeting.

“We’ll give them a little bit of background and the corruption we’ve come across firsthand … and we’re talking to a couple of people about running a candidate in the Western Victoria Region at next year’s state election,” he said.

“We say our message isn’t about right and left, it’s about right and wrong. And at the moment there are some things that are terribly wrong in Victoria.”

Mr Cook has previously contested the district of Mulgrave – the seat of former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews – twice, first running

against Mr Andrews in 2022 and then at a 2023 by-election following Mr Andrews’ resignation.

Mr Cook received 18 per cent of the primary vote in 2022 and a year later achieved nearly 19 per cent, edging out the Liberal Party candidate after the distribution of preferences but losing to Labor’s Eden Foster.

Mr Cook said a swing of more than 10 per cent against Labor at the by-election showed his platform was effective.

“We took what was a safe Labor seat and turned it into a marginal seat,” he said.

“Now we’re going to aim for the upper house and see if we can hopefully get enough people up to take control of the upper house.

“We think if some people don’t stand up, put their hands up and say ‘we think we can make a difference’, nothing will change.”

Mr Cook said while he was not from a regional background, he found his message resonated with country voters.

“The thing that’s coming across when I’m talking to people from those areas is the stuff this government has done – this Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy, the fact that farms are now seen as commercial so they’re increasing land tax on them, all the issues with wind turbines and solar,” he said.

“We know those are very hot-topic issues at the moment, but then there’s the perennial ones too like water rights, private property rights. All of those messages come together.

“We’re not going up there just to convert a bunch of Nationals voters just to vote for an independent party. We just want to talk to people so that when they go to the pub and talk to their friends, they take the message so that people who might be feeling a bit disenfranchised or lost see there is somewhere they can go if they’re not happy with the major parties.

“Because of the infighting in the Liberal Party, I know a few farmers who are very unhappy with the state of play at the moment and they don’t feel like there are people to stand up for them. That’s exactly why I said I’d come and talk.”

Rural Round Up invitation

Adesire to bring the community together is behind a Rural Round Up event planned in Stawell next week.

Hosted by Hewitt and Whitty Stawell, the free event at the North Park clubrooms on Wednesday, September 3 will feature guest speakers Abbi Power, a mental-health consultant, as well as media personality and former VFL footballer Sam Kekovich.

Hewitt and Whitty’s Luke Ralph said he was inspired to organise the night in an attempt to offer local farmers and their families a much-needed chance to interact in a relaxed social setting.

“Farmers have been going through some tough times, and I wanted to put something on just to get them off the farm and out for a social event,” he said.

“It’s basically so people can get out, have a chat, mix and mingle for a few hours. Part of it is to talk about resilience and mental health with Abbi, and then have a bit of a laugh and a fun time with Sam.

“It was going to be a sales night, but I’ve moved away from that because that sort of thing has been happening for years and years. I wanted it to be something a bit new.”

Mr Ralph said he had Mr Kekovich in mind ‘from the first day’ when planning the event.

“He’s the Australian lamb ambassador and he’s got great ties to the agricultural world. Everybody knows him from being the ‘lambassador’ and

“Part of it is to talk about resilience and mental health with Abbi, and then have a bit of a laugh and a fun time with Sam”

an ex-footballer,” he said. “One of my colleagues had heard Abbi speak and thought she would be good to have along. He had her contact details and she was more than happy to come and do it.”

The event, which begins at 5pm, will include door prizes and giveaways donated by several sponsors, with a light dinner and refreshments also provided.

Mr Ralph encouraged as many people as possible to attend.

“We’d love to get as many as we could. There’s been a fair bit of interest. It’s been positive,” he said.

Mr Ralph admitted he had been nervous to organise a social function for the first time, but had been encouraged by the support he received.

“I’ve been having a chat with one of our suppliers, because there’s a fair few groups supporting me in this, and I told him I was a bit worried about how it was going to go,” he said.

“He said the company he works with has a philosophy of ‘be brave’, so that’s what I’m doing – being brave and having a go.”

The free event is supported by Agriculture Victoria’s Look Over the Farm Gate grants program.

Horsham Rural City Council’s new youth councillors with chief executive Gail Gatt and Mayor Ian Ross following their swearing-in ceremony.

Youth councillors begin journey

Horsham Rural City Council has elected a new youth council.

The latest group of youth councillors have officially started their twoyear term, with 11 young leaders, aged 11 to 18, now set to represent the diverse voices of young people in the municipality.

A swearing-in ceremony last week marked the beginning of the group’s journey to shape community decisions, programs, and opportunities for their peers.

During the ceremony, the youth councillors delivered a presentation to an audience of families, Horsham councillors, council chief executive Gail Gatt, directors and other council staff, where they confidently shared their vision and values.

The group reported on the recent youth engagement feedback gathered during the Western Victorian Careers Expo, showcasing their ability to speak with clarity and purpose.

Wimmera Lutheran College stu-

dent Casarra Rowan, 15, said she joined the youth council to make a difference in the community.

“I’m here to be the voice of the young people in the community,” she said.

“There are 11 of us doing it and we’re all very keen on making an impact and very happy to be a part of this council, which is great.

“This is a new thing for all of us, and I’m hoping that this will be one of many generations that’ll make an impact on this community.”

Horsham Mayor Ian Ross said having a youth council in place was exciting for the community.

“The energy, confidence, and dedication shown by our new youth councillors speaks volumes about the future leaders in our region,” he said.

“I am proud to witness this group of young people take charge and offer their perspectives on the issues that matter most to them.

“I look forward to working with them as they help shape the future of our community.”

In addition to electing a youth mayor and deputy mayor, the youth councillors have been assigned specific roles, and will meet monthly to continue their work.

The meetings will be chaired and minuted by the youth councillors, ensuring they have an active role in the decision-making process.

Council youth services planning and engagement officer Louise Kelly said council had hosted a youth council program since 2018, and last year a young mayors’ program as well.

“This is our first youth council official swearing in at Horsham Rural City Council, with all the councillors present,” she said.

“I think the councillors are very excited and supportive – they’re enthusiastic about youth council.”

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Filling health gaps one step at a time

Lou Bibby’s passion and advocacy for health has seen her launch organisations Central Mallee Health and Outreach Osteo, a gym, a walking group and initiatives The Fat Farmer and Stronger Foundations.

She is now organising Sea Lake’s biggest ever walking event.

Raised at Berriwillock, Ms Bibby studied osteopathy at university, and returning to her home each summer and working at the area’s grain receival centre, she said she noticed deficits in access to health care.

“I looked around at the men, women and families who had shaped my life and I thought, why is access to care still so hard for the people who need it most?” she said.

“So in 2009, I started Central Mallee Health. In the beginning it was just me, long days, a car and a mission.

“I was driving between Berriwillock, Woomelang and Birchip and doing whatever I could to help people in small towns.”

Ms Bibby’s business expanded; first opening at Swan Hill in 2014, then with her expanding team, opened at Sea Lake and Kerang.

“But in 2020 COVID-19 hit, services shut down, travel became impossible, and people couldn’t get to us – so we flipped the model,” Ms Bibby said.

“When they couldn’t come to us, we went to them, and that was the birth of Outreach Osteo.

“We turned up wherever we could. We ran clinics in silos at Horsham, footy sheds in Underbool, the old

“This is bigger than fitness –it’s about community health. It’s about social

connection,

mental well-being, prevention over reaction, changing long-term health outcomes for rural people”

school at Rainbow, we worked in Horsham, Warracknabeal, Donald, Boort, and Wycheproof, we showed up to Cohuna, Barham, Moulamein, Balranald, and even the pub at Lascelles.

“Fuelled by nothing more than the heart to do so, and the value it brought to the people that we serve with gratitude and impact.”

Ms Bibby said her services have never received funding, nor travel reimbursements or public government backing.

“But we continue because we believe the work matters, because we believe access to care should never depend on a postcode,” she said.

“Now we cover 40,000 square kilometres of the Mallee, and we’re just getting started.”

Ms Bibby said that even with everything she and her team had built and achieved – including being finalists at the Allied Health Industry Awards in 2021 and 2022 for Rural and Remote Excellence, and recognition by Member for Mallee Anne Webster and AHWAI for recognition of outstanding contribution to allied health in Victoria, two major problems still remained.

“There is very limited access to fit-

a program for rural men in farming, trades and small business to move, talk, to improve their health and their well-being, regardless of what grows in a year; and Stronger Foundations, where we open the gym for free on Tuesdays for women, Thursdays for men, and Sundays for everybody.”

Ms Bibby said to be able to sustain and extend the gym program, support was needed, and a prospectus had been created for individuals, businesses and partners.

“We’ve got one of the lowest health scores in Australia for timely access to care. Change starts with advocacy, permission and belonging and showing people that we’re ready to be proactive,” she said.

“This is bigger than fitness – it’s about community health. It’s about social connection, mental well-being, prevention over reaction, changing long-term health outcomes for rural people.

“And it comes with a gift. It’s a membership to gift yourself, your staff, a customer or someone in your community a way to show that you care. Because no matter what we’re facing – drought, financial pressure, family challenges or rural turmoil –our health is still our greatest wealth.”

Ms Bibby said people were invited to participate in Sea Lake’s Biggest Striders’ Club Day.

ness, rehab and recovery and spaces in rural towns, so I made another decision,” she said.

“At the beginning of 2024, I spent $300,000 to build a gym in Sea Lake. Not just a gym, a place to move, recover, connect and belong.

West Wimmera council calls for fairer drought support for ratepayers

West Wimmera Shire Council has called on the State Government to expand the drought declaration area to cover the entire shire.

Council agreed at a meeting last week to provide support to eligible primary producers through the government’s Primary Producer Support Payment Program.

The program helps farmers affected by drought to meet their general rates and municipal charges.

But only rural properties with the postcodes 3312, 3317, 3318, and 3319 are eligible for the payment.

Council also resolved to lobby the government to expand the drought declaration area to cover the entire shire.

Mayor Tim Meyer said there had been a severe drought impact across the entire shire, with last year’s low rainfall and reduced crop and hay yields highlighting the ongoing challenge for farmers.

“Many of our farmers are really struggling,” he said.

“While we are grateful the State Government has recognised the situation and provided this support, it doesn’t fully reflect the reality on the ground.

“You only have to look at the grain bunkers that are only half as full as previous years. There is hardly a hay shed with a bale of hay left in it.

“People are really battling and this support payment, while beneficial, doesn’t go far enough.”

Cr Meyer said the current criteria for the support payment was concerning as it would split the shire into eligible and ineligible areas.

“This decision effectively divides our shire

in half, and that doesn’t make sense. We have situations where one farmer will be eligible for support and their neighbour across the fence will not,” he said.

“The drought does not stop at an arbitrary line on a map – the impact is being felt right across our community.”

The government announced $35.8-million in funding in July for selected drought-affected councils in southwest Victoria.

West Wimmera Shire Council is expected to receive about $1.15-million to support eligible primary producers.

“This support is important, but we need to keep highlighting the challenges our farmers face,” Cr Meyer said.

He also raised concerns about the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund and the impact it would have on ratepayers.

“That’s $5 million out of our shire, and this Primary Producer Support Payment is only bringing back in $1.15 million,” Cr Meyer said.

“Ninety-five percent of that money from the ESVF is going to come from farmers; it’s robbing Peter and Paul to pay no one. We still have to keep fighting this and expressing our frustration.”

For those eligible for the Primary Producer Support Payment Program, no action is needed – the payment will appear on rates notices as a partial payment already received, providing immediate financial relief to affected landholders.

For more information about the payment and eligibility, people can visit agriculture.vic.gov. au/farm-management/drought-support/grantsand-financial-support/drought-support-package.

“Together, we started making strides, one foot in front of the other.

“Now, this year, we have piloted two more initiatives: The Fat Farmer,

“In 2024, we launched the Sea Lake Striders’ Club, a Sunday walking group for mums, dads, kids, prams and pets – for anybody ready to start somewhere.

“I’ve applied for some grants to have an event, so we’re trying to get 100 people to walk in Sea Lake on Sunday – everybody’s welcome, I’d love to see you there,” she said. People can find more information on the event at the Sea Lake Striders’ Club’s Facebook page.

Farmer jailed for animal cruelty

Mallee farmer Steven Ralston has been jailed for six months for animal cruelty offences.

Ralston pleaded guilty at Bendigo Magistrates Court last week to 14 charges under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, including nine charges of aggravated cruelty of 128 animals.

He was also fined $10,000 for failing to comply with three notices issued by Agriculture Victoria.

At the time of offending, Ralston was the owner and person in charge of about 2400 sheep on properties in the Chinkapook region, while living in Corack, north of Donald.

The Chinkapook properties were made up of seven separate parcels of land, allocated to five paddocks, totalling about 3038 acres.

Between November, 2022, and January, 2023, Agriculture Victoria officers responded to reports of dead and dying sheep at several of the Chinkapook properties.

Sheep on Ralston’s properties suffered from emaciation, flystrike, grass seed impaction and internal parasites, requiring Agriculture Victoria officers to euthanise more than 180 sheep.

In early January, 2023, Agriculture Victoria seized all remaining animals, where 1567 animals were further assessed as unfit to travel and

were required to be euthanised on site. Ralston – a repeat offender – was also fined for failure to attend court previously, breaking bail and receiving a fine of $250.

Agriculture Victoria compliance manager Daniel Bode said the weight of the sentencing was significant and would send a clear message that those who committed such serious offences against animals would not have the privilege and opportunity to care for them in the future.

Mr Bode said the dedication and professionalism of the Agriculture Victoria officers, plus the outstanding investigative work undertaken, was fundamental in ensuring a conclusive result.

“Apart from the obvious pain and suffering of the animals, animal welfare breaches can jeopardise Victoria’s reputation as a humane and responsible producer of food, which can in turn affect all producers,” he said.

“This is a reminder to all livestock producers that animal cruelty will not be tolerated by the Victorian Government or our community.”

Anyone wishing to make a specific complaint in regard to livestock welfare can contact Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 or aw.complaint@ agriculture.vic.gov.au.

Action and assistance grants open

Hindmarsh Shire Council’s annual business assistance and community action grants are now open for applications, with $20,000 allocated in the 2025-26 budget for each program.

Last year’s Community Action Grants program assisted 17 community groups and organisations with funding for a range of initiatives including landscaping and street beautification, strategic planning, personal protective equipment, laptop computers, sporting

equipment, kitchen appliances and hall cleaning equipment, as well as event sponsorship.

The Community Action Grants program has three categories available for funding applications: community assistance, event sponsorship and small equipment.

The Business Assistance Grants program offers support and assistance across two funding categories: business development and streetscape improvement. For all Business Assistance

Grants, businesses must match $1 to every $2 of council grant, and any new businesses that have operated for less than 12 months will need to meet with council’s economic development team prior to applying. Community Action Grants and Business Assistance Grant application forms and grant guidelines are available on council’s website at www.hindmarsh.vic. gov.au/Apply-for-Grants. Applications for both grant programs will close at 5pm on September 4.

EXPANSION: Health advocate Lou Bibby launched The Fat Farmer, a program aimed at rural men in farming, trades and small business to improve their health and well-being, at Mallee Machinery Field Days earlier this month.
Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

United voices not being heard

VicGrid’s release of a finalised Victorian Transmission Plan blew up last week, leaving many farmers, communities and councils disappointed and angered for various reasons.

The State Government’s finalised Victorian Transmission Plan now includes major changes to the Renewables Energy Zones, REZ – areas where the government wants to build wind, solar and battery projects.

The Wimmera Southern Mallee zone – now one of two sections in a Western REZ – has more than doubled its footprint, plus an area south of Harrow and Balmoral has been added to the South West REZ.

It was a vast change from the original draft plan, and has made people who did contribute to the community consultation feel like they haven’t been listened to.

In fact, VicGrid seems to have gone in the opposite direction.

According to VicGrid’s website: ‘VicGrid heard consistently through the consultation process from energy industry stakeholders that our modelling for future energy demand did not have sufficient contingency built in, and greater size and flexibility was needed to enable the development of technically and commercially viable renewable projects. We also heard from some landholders in the region, calling for more opportunity to benefit from hosting infrastructure’.

“VicGrid’s role is to balance the need for new renewable projects that will deliver reliable and affordable power with a range of other factors, including how we minimise impacts on landholders, communities, agriculture, the environment and power bills,” the website reads.

“Not all community or industry requests have been adopted. The Victorian Transmission Plan reflects difficult choices, made by weighing up many factors to deliver a plan that best serves all Victorians.”

VicGrid says combining the Wimmera Southern Mallee and Grampians zones to be called the Western REZ, allows access to the electricity grid to be allocated across both sections combined, ‘providing more flexibility in where renewable energy projects such as turbines are developed’.

“The boundaries of the western section have been expanded due to the need to provide greater opportunities for project developers to par-

EDITORIAL

ticipate,” the VicGrid website reads. “This will mean that the proposed zone will include more farmland, which we know will be of concern to some community members.

“Research has shown that dryland broadacre cropping and grazing may be more compatible with renewable energy infrastructure than other forms of farming.

“Also noted is that we have heard from the agriculture sector that all farms are unique and the impacts on landholders may vary and need to be considered by any proposed project development.”

In a nutshell – to me – it says VicGrid heard the complaints – from farmers, communities and councils – and didn’t take it on board because it didn’t align with their policies, ideas and plans. It clearly needs to follow the government policy on renewable energy and reaching netzero targets and therefore, the plan reflects that.

It has chosen to side with the renewable companies over the affected communities and farmers.

It is another example of farmers feeling like an anti-agricultural sentiment is running through this government.

Farmers’ feelings have been further explored in the Victorian Farmers Federation’s first State of the State: Victorian Farmer Priorities Survey, where the results, released on Monday, have revealed nine in 10 farmers do not believe the State Government understands local issues or has a positive plan to grow the industry.

And on the home front – out of the mouths of babes – my eight-year-old daughter asked me why I was going to Marnoo last week to the meeting between landowners and politicians.

I gave her a simplistic explanation that the government wanted to put windfarms and transmission towers on farmers’ land and many did not want them.

Her reply: “Why is the government always giving farmers the shits?”

ELECTED: Wimmera Hospice Care Auxiliary president Lesley Lane presented a cheque for $28,000 to Grampians Health palliative care nurses Jody Membrey and Maire Coffey at its annual general meeting last week. The $28,000 will top up available funds to $50,000, which is used for leasing the necessary equipment to allow palliative care clients to remain at home. All equipment is at no cost to the client. Also at the AGM, new office bearers were elected. Pictured are, standing, welfare officer Joy Smith, vice-treasurer Jane Bolwell, treasurer and secretary Maureen Webb, vice-secretary and volunteer co-ordinator Kellie McMaster, and publicity officer Lea Crammond, with president Lesley Lane, left, and vice-president Jan Ackland seated.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Costly power and blackouts

Why does the National Party want blackouts and higher electricity prices?

The last two coal-fired power plants in Victoria are scheduled to close within the next decade.

While it may be easy for Nationals MPs to preach their anti-renewable energy stance to their base on platforms like Sky News, this is simply lazy politics.

It demonstrates their inability to develop rigorous policy, a failing that has become evident throughout their recent history.

During their last three terms in government, the Federal Liberal-National Coalition consistently postponed meaningful action, appeasing political donors while failing to achieve a single, coherent energy policy over nine years.

To this day, the Coalition has not provided a single credible alternative that is economically viable or achievable within our current time constraints.

Their credibility on energy is non-existent. Their proposals for nuclear, gas, and coal are mere distractions.

The feasibility of new gas plants is negated by a gas turbine order backlog in the United States that extends for more than seven years.

Furthermore, no expert has credibly argued that nuclear power or Small Modular Reactors, SMRs, are deployable within the required timeframe, and their immense cost makes them economically unfeasible.

Finally, no company has even proposed building a new coal plant in Australia.

Energy retailers are primarily motivated by profit and will always purchase the cheapest energy available.

With solar and wind projects, including firming technology, priced at $67-$137/MWh, and gas at $85-$145/MWh – according to the CSIRO Gencost Report – retailers would never consider the significantly more expensive nuclear SMRs, which are priced at $285-$487/MWh.

Therefore, the only credible solution is the one being implemented now, a combination of solar, wind, and firming technologies.

For a reliable power supply and the cheapest

energy on the grid, our region must support projects like VNI West and the Grampians Wimmera Renewable Energy Zone.

Any further delay to these projects only increases their cost and increases the risk of blackouts, which is precisely the ideological outcome the Nationals appear to desire.

If the Nationals continue to oppose this transition, MPs Anne Webster and Emma Kealy may leave a legacy being defined by an energy crisis marked by costly power and blackouts by 2030.

Tom Parkes, Stawell

Super tax change

Anne Webster, The Weekly Advertiser, July 30, 2025, says the Federal Government’s new tax on superannuation balances of more than $3-million is a tax grab, but the Greens wanted a $2-million ceiling and the change only raises more than $2-billion in its first year of operation.

Sure, it could be indexed, but that is a future issue.

She then says that some farmers will have to sell some land to pay the yearly tax grab.

But if farmland has increased in value by 79 per cent between 2020 and 2023, I am sure that they can deal with it.

Tax advisors are suggesting that it would cost more to change their very generous super arrangements than pay the tax.

Webster implies that lots of farmers will be affected but the super tax changes affect about one half of one per cent of superannuants.

What’s more, only seven per cent of this tiny cohort live in rural areas with only some involved in farming, and even fewer with over $3-million in super.

Most people affected by the super tax change live in affluent regions in the major capital cities with very few in regional and remote areas.

The super tax change is sensible, affects very few people and is badly needed.

It could be a lot worse, if the very generous super tax arrangements applied only to balances of up to $3-million and people paid normal rates of tax on all investments outside this protected superannuation envelope.

Robert Blakeley, Horsham

Progressive financial planning

Are you a hardworking individual who has dedicated your life to raising and supporting your children? As they grow into successful adults, have you ever wondered about your own financial situation?

Are you on track for a comfortable retirement? Don’t worry, we are here to help!

ON TRACK:

People from across the state contributed to Parks Victoria’s Volunteer Track Ranger program to assist the firerecovery of the Little Desert National Park, clearing tracks, painting tables and chairs and making areas safe.

Helping park recovery

Ateam of more than 20 volunteers travelled from across Victoria to Little Desert National Park earlier this month to join the first Volunteer Track Ranger post-fire recovery effort.

Dry lightning sparked a blaze at the park, which falls between the towns of Dimboola, Goroke and Nhill, burning more than 175,000 acres of land.

With the area receiving only 80 millimetres of rain since the fire, recovery has been slow – and access to the park has been limited.

Wimmera area chief ranger Lisa Freeman said the day was a huge success, with walking tracks at Horseshoe Bend and Ackle Bend campgrounds cleared; newly built park chairs and tables painted; mulch put in areas with hazardous trees to allow people to camp safely; and shrubs cut back.

Ms Freeman said without volunteers the

work completed over that weekend would have taken weeks.

“The recovery process at Little Desert is going to be long, and it’s going to take volunteers to help bring this place back,” she said.

Parks Victoria is working towards a goal of reopening the park for visitors this Spring.

For Jess, from Edenhope, it was the first time participating in a volunteering day with Parks Victoria.

She said events like one on August 9 helped volunteers see the impacts firsthand that fires have on flora and fauna and let them play an important role in bringing impacted parks back to life.

“Now’s the time for volunteers to get in and do some hard work to let the bush recover back to how it was,” she said.

“It was an easy thing to come along to.

“You don’t have to have experience, people are really happy to show you things. It’s a great opportunity to learn

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY FROM REPCO ARARAT!

something new. When you come to these kinds of events, you always find people that care about the environment and are passionate.

“That’s what’s brought me out, it’s that good feeling of spending time with likeminded people.”

This year marks 20 years of Parks Victoria’s Volunteer Track Ranger program.

Since 2005, thousands of volunteers have provided countless hours of work and dedication to protect parks and enhance visitors’ experiences in them.

Ms Freeman said for places like Little Desert National Park, help from volunteers was critical in helping to ensure areas impacted by fires could safely reopen to visitors.

“Thank you to all our volunteers who helped at Little Desert National Park for their time, effort and dedication to helping us get this park back to a state where the local community, visitors and campers can safely enjoy it,” she said.

Protecting schools ahead of bushfires

Ararat Rural City Council has welcomed a State Government announcement of $8.4-million in grants to help hundreds of government schools reduce bushfire risk as part of a Bushfire Preparedness Vegetation Program, BPVP.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll last week announced Ararat North Kinder Care, Ararat North Primary School, Buangor Primary School, Moyston Primary School, Maroona Primary School, Pomonal Primary School and its afterschool care program would receive money under the program.

The schools are listed on the state’s Bushfire At-Risk Register, BARR, and will be able to use the money to clear vegetation and carry out targeted maintenance works before the bushfire season starts.

Ararat Rural City Council Mayor Jo Armstrong said the investment would assist the schools to implement their vegetationmanagement plans for the safety and wellbeing of their students and staff.

“This funding will help these local schools to make real progress in reducing fire risk. It’s reassuring to see these targeted investments, and I encourage everyone to have a plan, stay alert, and look out for one another as the warmer months approach,” she said.

The BPVP, introduced in 2018, allows eligible schools to engage accredited bushfire consultants and additional professional services to provide expert advice and practical support in preparing for the annual fire danger period.

Cr Armstrong encouraged families and staff to create their own bushfire plan and download the VicEmergency app to stay informed.

Across the region, primary schools at Apsley, Beulah, Concongella, Great Western, Halls Gap, Marnoo, Navarre, St Patrick’s at St Arnaud, and Tempy, as well Beulah Outreach Preschool and St Arnaud Early Learning Centre will also receive funding.

While secondary schools Dimboola Memorial Secondary College, Horsham College’s McKenzie Creek Campus and St Arnaud Secondary College are also on the list of recipients.

For more information about bushfire preparedness and developing a fire plan, people can visit fireplanner.vic.gov.au

A full list of schools receiving BPVP funding can be found on the State Government’s Bushfire At-Risk Register website at www.vic.gov.au/bushfire-risk-register-barr.

www.thedonaldproject.com.au

Community Information Sessions

DMS is developing the Donald Rare Earth and Mineral Sands Project near Minyip, one of the world’s largest untapped deposits of mineral sands and rare earth elements. Our 42-year project means regional growth, jobs, and infrastructure improvements.

What: Community information sessions

Where: Minyip Senior Citizens Hall, 72 Main Street, Minyip

When: Wednesday 10 September 2025

Two sessions: 2pm to 4pm and 5pm to 7pm

What to expect

• Next steps following Work Plan approval

• New water pipeline along Gun Club Road

• Project displays and information

• Jobs and supplier opportunities

• Ask questions and share feedback

• One-on-one discussions with project team

We’ll start each session with a short presentation but please drop in any time.

www.thedonaldproject.com.au enquiries@thedonaldproject.com.au

Native species at risk of extinction

AFederation University researcher is warning that recent bushfires coupled with drought in western Victoria could push several native species to the brink of extinction.

Wildlife ecologist Grant Palmer said ongoing dry conditions in the state’s west meant vegetation regeneration was lagging following large bushfire areas including Grampians-Gariwerd, Little Desert and Mt Cole, where more than 70 per cent of each of the parks was burnt.

Dr Palmer said the conditions were putting species including the south-eastern red-tailed black cockatoo, brush-tailed rock wallaby and longnosed potoroo at risk in Victoria’s west.

Elsewhere in Victoria he said populations of eastern bristlebird, eastern ground parrot, glossy black cockatoo, southern greater glider, broadtoothed rat and spotted-tailed quoll were also struggling to recover following the Black Summer fires in 2019-20.

“There is always a long road to recovery after fires but these most recent events at the start of this year have followed other equally devastating fires and that has upset the balance,” Dr Palmer said.

“The environment has been recovering from earlier fires, but the latest fires shift the recovery

trajectory and have amplified the problems these species have.”

Researchers estimate about 1400 red-tailed black cockatoos remain in western Victoria, with more than 90 per cent of their traditional habitat cleared or severely modified.

Dr Palmer said when remaining woodlands were affected by large fires, there was even less available habitat for the birds to find sufficient food sources or nesting hollows.

He said conservation agencies, landholders and citizen-science groups were working to protect the cockatoos, with monitoring programs and proactive measures like nestboxes installed to encourage their breeding.

He said the cockatoos lived for about 25 to 50 years but had low reproductive rates, contributing to concerns about their long-term survival prospects.

“Many people are passionate about these birds and the risk is that another major fire could really push them to the brink,” Dr Palmer said.

“This is an ecosystem that does need fire to regenerate and produce a good level of seeds, but it can take five to 10 years to get into that optimal range. The habitats just don’t get that opportunity where fires occur too frequently or burn too severely.”

SHOW OF SUPPORT: From left, Ararat Rural City Council strategic project lead Phuong Au, Regional Development Victoria chief executive Xavier Csar, Pomonal Community Assets Committee secretary Andrea Shelley, and Regional Development Victoria Grampians regional director Sarah Henderson meet to discuss Pomonal’s bushfire recovery.

Ongoing recovery efforts shared

Regional Development Victoria officials visited the Pomonal Recovery Centre to meet with stakeholders from across the region playing a role in Pomonal’s bushfire recovery.

During the visit, representatives from Ararat Rural City Council’s Pomonal Recovery Centre, Pomonal Progress Association, and Pomonal Hall and Recreation Reserve Community Asset Committee met with Regional Development Victoria, RDV, chief executive Xavier Csar and other representatives to discuss Pomonal’s bushfire-recovery efforts.

RDV representatives heard stories about the initial informal recovery hub that was selfestablished at Pomonal General Store before it moved over to the Pomonal Hall, and how the local Toyota dealership helped co-ordinate much-needed donations.

They also discussed progress made in rebuilding homes and the loss of Jill Miller – a prominent local who was instrumental in the initial post-bushfire period, connecting the community needs with the required support.

Mr Csar said he was amazed by the Pomonal community’s fortitude.

“The stories we heard, of bravery and resilience in the face of significant challenges, were very moving and a great testament to the strength of the community,” he said.

“It’s wonderful to see the community are back on their feet – we look forward to seeing the recovery process continue to return people to a sense of normalcy.”

In February 2024, the State Government provided a $200,000 grant from the Tiny Towns Fund to help Ararat Rural City Council establish a central community hub with critical infrastructure and resources.

So far, the funding has delivered: wheelbarrows and other gardening equipment used for clean-up efforts; equipment and resources for the Pomonal Recovery Centre to assist residents with claims and other administrative matters; and three-phase power upgrades, enabling Pomonal Hall to host larger community activities and events that help to build social connections.

Pomonal residents also talked about ongoing benefits the funding provided to the community, including the ability to power the Pomonal Market, and the Pomonal Growers and Producers Market, held on alternating fortnights.

“We were pleased to once again host Regional Development Victoria in Pomonal,” council chief executive Tim Harrison said.

“This visit provided a valuable opportunity to directly discuss our community’s remarkable resilience and the ongoing bushfire recovery journey.”

DEPARTURE DATE: MARCH 16, 2026 DURATION: 16 DAYS

Making a healthy change

Grampians Community Health, GCH, leaders are urging people concerned about their use of alcohol and other drugs to make lifestyle changes in the lead-up to International Overdose Awareness Day.

GCH will offer a structured alcohol-and-other-drug, AOD, day rehabilitation program, titled Making a Change, for people in the Wimmera-Grampians region.

GCH leaders said while evidence suggested drug and alcohol use rates had not declined across the region, rehabilitation programs were not utilised as often as expected.

Making a Change facilitators

Alisha Piper and Jess Bowater said the program could change people’s lives for the better, improving daily living skills, health and wellbeing, and preventing overdoses and other harms from AOD use.

Ms Piper has facilitated the program for three years and Ms Bowater joined this year.

“The program is great for people to reduce the harms associated with their use,” Ms Piper said.

“People find that by creating a structure and routine over a few days each week, it allows them to reduce the harms associated with their use.

“We’ve had people who have done the program two or three times and we see them recover.

“The last time we see them they are abstinent and in a completely different stage of their lives.”

Ms Bowater said the Making a Change program gave participants

a place where they were genuinely cared for.

“Whether it’s the facilitators or the other people in the program, they feel that care and it helps them to keep going,” she said.

“People make mistakes, and people using GCH services can be assured that this place is judgementfree.”

Making a Change attendees are not required to be abstinent from alcohol and other drugs to attend

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the program, but cannot be visibly affected by substances during their attendance.

“I worry that people think they have to be abstinent, or ready to be abstinent, may not be engaging in the program because they aren’t ready to give up just yet, but as long as they are ready to make a change to their lives, even a small step, that’s what really counts,” Ms Piper said.

The State Government-funded

Fighting for Mallee

program is delivered by GCH in Horsham, Stawell and Ararat under the auspices of Ballarat Community Health.

Ms Piper said attendance numbers were low in the current Stawell program and encouraged more people to consider joining.

“We know there are people using alcohol and drugs in harmful ways, so we’re concerned that people don’t know about the program,” she said.

The facilitators called on the community for support, including asking local shopkeepers to display posters to promote Making a Change.

Ms Piper said public transport could be an issue for people in rural communities, but that the facilitators would work with potential participants to try to find solutions.

The program is eight weeks, with attendance on three or four days each week. It covers topics including communication, healthy relationships, relapse prevention, conflict management, stress and anxiety, exercise, cooking, budgeting, employability skills and selfesteem.

It also covers harm-minimisation, the impacts of substance use on the body, stress and anxiety.

People can make appointments by calling Grampians Community Health on 5358 7400 and asking for an intake worker.

International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31 highlights that overdose solutions exist and that a community-wide effort can end overdoses.

Volunteer grants

Member for Wannon Dan Tehan has announced that all 23 applications from the electorate in the 2024–25 Volunteer Grants round have been approved, with a total of $64,725 in funding going towards supporting local volunteers and their vital work.

The successful applicants included Ararat Men’s Shed $3675 and Ararat Scout Group $3675.

“As your local member, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact of volunteering across Wannon,” Mr Tehan said.

“Our volunteers are the backbone of many community organisations, and their hard work continues to strengthen our region.

“Volunteering brings people together and also delivers significant social and economic benefits to our communities.”

Pool progress

Hopetoun’s community can expect to enjoy upgrades to its pool during the approaching summer; Yarriambiack Shire Council has announced the pool’s upgrade works are underway.

Separated into two phases – the first phase to commence next month and the second phase early next year – council chief executive Tammy Smith said it was to avoid delays and ensure the pool would open during summer.

The first phase is the construction of a disabilitycompliant family changeroom and a refurbishment of the existing changerooms, while the second phase consists of upgrade works to the main pool and toddler pool, including the installation of a new wet deck, all-abilities access ramp, pool slide and rebuilding the balance tank.

The project’s total cost is $1,358,676 – including construction, project management and contingencies, and is funded by the State Government’s Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund, Yarriambiack Shire Council, Hopetoun Swimming Pool Committee, and community donations.

I enjoyed a recent article in The Australian by demographer Bernard Salt, reminiscing about his Terang upbringing: reading the local paper and listening to the local radio with scarcely a care about Melbourne or events beyond.

Bernard argued that city folk are being enticed to locations within cooee of Melbourne or other capital cities seeking personal safety and a romanticised, perhaps work-from-home country lifestyle.

Bendigo, Ballarat and Geelong have bloomed thanks to their proximity to Melbourne and the largesse of a Victorian Labor Government that cynically apportions taxpayer money (well, future debt actually) for political gain.

Meanwhile Horsham, Mildura, Swan Hill and scores of towns in Mallee suffer next to zero investment from a citycentric government.

Monday week ago in Donald, Wendy shared with me her terrible story that due to several serious medical conditions she is selling up and moving to Melbourne just to access the healthcare she needs to survive. On Monday I shared Wendy’s story in Parliament.

The only alternative is to take the perilous drive on roads councils can’t afford to improve. The Victorian Government prefers to pour $billions more (debt) into the Suburban Rail Loop project rather than invest in our regions.

At the same time our local news services struggle – Mallee does not have one locally based television news service. We have become invisible to the state and nation, even to ourselves – unless, as I do, we use satellite TV capability, social media and protests in Melbourne and Canberra to make ourselves seen and heard.

Mallee produces the food and bre for our nation and the world. We also frequently stage or host signi cant tourist drawcard events. We provide a rapidly growing amount of government revenue but receive nowhere near that investment is made back into our region.

Mallee residents are justi ably indignant and I continue to serve as your voice in the best form of retaliation that works: politics – demanding a fair go for our region and more broadly for regional Australia.

Northwest Victorian residents have inadequate bus and train services and can otherwise only get to Melbourne - or beyond - by plane with high ticket prices.

HELPING HANDS: Grampians Community Health’s Making a Change facilitators Alisha Piper and Jess Bowater.

Council outlines highway projects

West Wimmera Shire Council has outlined its top priorities for the Western Highway as part of a new advocacy strategy.

Council adopted the Western Highway Action Committee

Advocacy Strategy at its August meeting on Wednesday, which lists council’s advocacy priorities.

The strategy establishes council’s minimum expectations for highway infrastructure to support growing freight demands and improve safety for all road-users.

It will guide council’s advocacy within the action committee, and in direct representations to state and federal governments.

The strategy also incorporates priorities such as addressing mobile black spots on emergency detour routes and ensuring prompt maintenance of wire road barriers.

Mayor Tim Meyer said the strategy ensured the council’s voice was heard in key planning forums.

“We’re in the unique position

of being at the end of the line, so many of our priorities focus on safety because we often face the toughest conditions,” he said.

“However, we are supportive of all upgrades on the highway.

An upgrade at Caroline Springs is a benefit to us; an upgrade at Horsham is a benefit for us.

“This strategy is not just about trying to fix things in our neck of the woods – it’s an important document for the entire region.”

Council’s long-term strategic priorities for the highway include duplication between Nhill and the South Australian border; cross-border freight and transport consistency through standardising road conditions and signage to align with other states; forward planning for alternate routes in case of closures; and building climate-resilient infrastructure that can withstand flooding, extreme heat, and heavy freight wear.

Short-term priorities focus on immediate safety and efficiency gains.

The short-term priorities in-

clude sealed shoulders wide enough for vehicles to stop safely; maintaining clear roadside areas; expanding wide centreline treatments to reduce head-on crashes; and installing wire-rope barriers and guardrails in high-risk areas.

Council will also advocate for more overtaking lanes and slow vehicle turnouts, upgraded intersections and turning lanes, and modern all-weather rest areas suitable for heavy vehicles to support fatigue management.

Cr Meyer said there were many safety issues that needed urgent attention.

“Some of the changes, like overtaking lanes and sealed shoulders, could save lives right now,” he said.

“Others, like duplication and climate-resilient designs, are about making sure the highway serves us well for decades to come.”

Cr Meyer said the adoption of the strategy reinforced council’s commitment to safer, more reliable road connections for freight operators, industry, and the wider community.

Off to the pictures at Stawell

Residents of Grampians Health Stawell’s Care Community are enjoying unique trips to the movies with the opening of their own cinema.

A donation from Halls Gap’s Mangle family paid for a disused sunroom at Macpherson Smith Residential Care to be transformed into a purpose-built cinema, complete with a big screen, external audio system, bar and snacks, and a genuine popcorn-making machine.

Macpherson Smith Care Community manager

Tess Beniga said the cinema provided residents with an opportunity to relive their younger days when cinemas were the major entertainment.

“Residents have always been able to watch movies on big televisions in the main living areas but this is providing the complete cinema experience of a sun-blocked room and all the facilities,” Ms Beniga said.

“The walls were repainted in colours chosen by the residents and everything in there is new, including the chairs and the carpet.

“There will be snacks available at every show-

ing and the refrigerator will have ice creams and icy poles and there will be a team member on hand to get them whatever they want.”

Ms Beniga said the cinema was named the Pinnacle Picture Theatre to honour the generosity of the Mangle family.

“The family’s support for Macpherson Smith is overwhelming and we are very thankful to them,” she said.

“The cinema will mostly screen older movies but the residents can request what they want to see. We want them to have the experience of old and new. They’ve already been watching the footy in there and I’m sure it will be a popular space on AFL grand final day.”

The cinema entrance has a display of Broadway-style lights which will turn on when a movie is playing inside.

Grampians Health Stawell site director Sue Campigli said the organisation’s redevelopment and infrastructure team oversaw the project, led by Phil Hutton.

Horsham Table Tennis Association

Our Club, The Horsham Table Tennis Association, feels honoured to be one of the recipients of your recent grants, and we sincerely thank West Side’s ongoing generosity to the local community. The Horsham Table Tennis Association offers diverse and engaging programs and competitions for juniors, seniors, access all abilities, and veterans. Members play for the social interaction, to develop skills, and to aid physical and mental alertness and wellbeing. Our aim is to build numbers by encouraging new members to see the values of participating and offering different programs throughout the year rather than just a winter competition. The facility is used for table tennis every weekday and we also hire the hall out as a community event centre. Our tables are used during practice times, for social hits, seasonal competitions, and both internal and inter-regional tournaments throughout the year. They have been well used and are showing their age. Over time, and as finances permit, these tables will be upgraded. This grant from West Side will be an invaluable contribution towards our upgrades program. Until recently, our Club suffered a downturn in participation due to the state of our equipment and clubrooms. We now have our own table tennis centre which we are paying off and we are trying to increase the number of programs and competitions. We try to generate our own revenue, but we also rely on funding from other sources, and for that we are most appreciative. This new table will hasten our endeavours to rebuild our centre.

Victoria SES responds to thousands of requests for assistance each year in a number of areas of response. This includes storm response, flooding, landslide, road crash rescue and technical rescue. Our technical rescue includes Horsham units response to high angle rescues at surrounding Mt Arapiles and Grampians areas. The vital piece of equipment your Grant has enabled us to purchase is called a Pezel Rescue Harness in a size 0. This is a specialised Harness allowing a safer, more efficient response to technical rescues both in and out of our Local coverage area.

West Side Horsham: Proud to be supporting our locals

West Side Horsham proudly sponsors local community groups through it’s Community Grant Program. Scan here

Victoria SES
MOVIE MAGIC: A donation from Halls Gap’s Mangle family is helping residents in Grampians Health Stawell’s Care Community enjoy the experience of going to the cinemas. Pictured is Grampians Health Care Community manager Tess Beniga, right, with Stawell’s MacPherson Smith resident Barbara.

CalistheniCs Competition

TALENT: Horsham Calisthenics College hosted its annual competition across four days last week, drawing talented competitors from across Victoria and South Australia. Horsham soloists and teams also graced the Horsham Town Hall stage, their performances recognised with many awards.

Among the more than 500 performers were, clockwise from above: soloist Adaline-Rose Lunt of Warrnambool; Tonique soloist Evie Watson; Horsham sub-juniors Priya Stacey, Hope Hofmaier, Mollie Armstrong and Gracie Sudholz; Horsham tinie Aubree Schnaars; Horsham sub-juniors Imogen Lane, Isla Burns and Priya Stacey; Horsham tinies Ruby Witmitz and Clara Lane; and centre, Loch Ard soloist Scarlett Bourke.

Christopher secures national seat

Horsham Rural City Council employ -

ee Paul Christopher will serve on the board of directors of Saleyards Australia

Limited, marking a significant milestone for both Mr Christopher and the Horsham region.

Mr Christopher’s appointment was confirmed following a national member ballot, prompted by seven available board positions.

With more nominations than vacancies this year, the election process was competitive – highlighting the esteem in which Mr Christopher is held by his peers across the industry.

He will serve on the board for the 2025–2026 term, bringing decades of experience and leadership to the national body.

Mr Christopher’s election is a notable achievement not only for him personally, but for Horsham, placing the region firmly on the map as a key player in the national saleyards industry.

Mr Christopher said his contacts and experience in the in-

“Paul’s election is a remarkable achievement and one that brings national recognition to Horsham”

dustry allowed him to give a voice from the ground level.

“For Horsham, I suppose it means that we get our name out there – I like promoting the sale yards whenever I can. I think it’s still the best sales medium as far as putting a price in the market,” he said.

“We advocate for the saleyards through government groups now – so if governments are doing something, they usually contact Saleyards Australia to be on their committees and consult with us.

“I’m actually on a Victorian one now for looking at truck washes and that sort of stuff, so it’s good to be able to be on there and voice your opinion.”

A shearer for about 20 years, Mr Christopher said he enjoyed working in the industry.

”I’ve been around livestock

all my life and I do like it and I love the way that it’s going –animal welfare seems to be going ahead in leaps and bounds and genetics – it’s really an exciting place to be,” he said.

Horsham Mayor Ian Ross said Mr Christopher’s appointment reflected his longstanding dedication and influence within the livestock sector.

“Paul’s election is a remarkable achievement and one that brings national recognition to Horsham,” Cr Ross said.

“His presence on the board means Horsham will now have a voice at the top level of industry decision-making, including key government committees.”

Mr Christopher has previously served for 18 years on the board of the former Australian Livestock Saleyards Association, where he established a strong reputation for strategic, industry-focused leadership.

Saleyards Australia Limited was formed in 2024 following the merger of the Australian Livestock Markets Association and the Australian Livestock

Saleyards Association, creating a unified, national body to represent the industry.

With more than 35 years of hands-on experience in the livestock sector – from running his own stock to leading industry initiatives – Mr Christopher brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the saleyards network.

His journey began at 16 years old in the shearing industry, and since 2005 he has been a key figure at Horsham Livestock Exchange.

In addition to his role at council, Mr Christopher serves on several other boards and committees including Longerenong College Animal Ethics Committee and National Saleyards Quality Assurance.

His commitment to professional development has seen him travel internationally to research best practices – from studying foot and mouth disease management in Nepal to exploring electronic ear tagging in Europe.

“This appointment comes

ELECTED: Paul Christopher, of Horsham, will serve on the board of directors of Saleyards Australia.

as Paul marks his 20th year at the Horsham Livestock Exchange,” Cr Ross said.

“Being elected by his peers to a national leadership role is a

fitting way to celebrate his two decades of service and continued commitment to advancing the industry.”

VFF calls for fair deal for farmers affected by plan

The Victorian Farmers Federation says the State Government’s new Victorian Transmission Plan looks more like a roadmap for developers than a fair deal for regional communities.

VicGrid, the government body in charge of co-ordinating the planning and development of Victoria’s Renewable Energy Zones and transmission infrastructure to support the state’s transition to renewable energy, released its finalised plan on August 17.

It now includes major changes to the Renewables Energy Zones, REZ – areas where the government wants to build wind, solar and battery projects. Under the updated plan, the Wimmera Southern Mallee REZ and Grampians Wimmera REZ are now two sections called the western and eastern zones in the newly named Western REZ.

The western zone has more than doubled its footprint, outraging many communities and the Yarriambiack and Buloke

shire councils. An area south of Harrow and Balmoral has also been added to the South West REZ.

VicGrid’s draft plan, first made public in May, had been met with strong opposition in the Wimmera during community consultation.

VFF president and Quambatook farmer Brett Hosking said many farmers believed in deep, economy-wide emission-cuts and the industry had already made huge steps forward, but the way the government was going about the changes was leaving families in regional Victoria facing an uncertain future.

“This plan has been sold as a way to keep the lights on, but it still leaves farmers in the dark,” he said.

“The government has redrawn the Renewable Energy Zones to suit developers, yet we still don’t know how much power will actually be built, what protections farmers will get, or what benefits will flow back into local communities.

“We keep seeing the see-sawing cost of these projects and you must wonder where it will end. How is a plan a plan if it fails to outline even the basic details of how much it will cost?”

Mr Hosking said the plan showed renewable projects in the new zones could either double what was on the ground now, or grow by more than 10 times by 2040.

However the government has indicated it hasn’t set any firm limits.

“That means a farming family can wake up and find themselves mapped into a zone, but have no idea whether they’ll see a few turbines or a wall of projects built around them,” Mr Hosking said.

Mr Hosking said the zones now covered nearly two-million hectares of farmland, yet the rules on compensation, community benefits and fair consultation were still missing.

“Right now, developers are getting the green light, while

farmers are told to sit tight and that’s completely unacceptable,” he said.

“If you want a fast and fair transition, you’ve got to bring communities with you and not just bulldoze past with a plan to have a plan.

“The government is forgetting that in the path of these mega-projects are generational farming families, utilising some of the most productive farmland in the country.

“They matter and we won’t let the government forget that.”

Mr Hosking added the VFF’s message was simple: the government needs to stop leaving farmers guessing and be transparent.

“Farmers can work with change. But we won’t cop being treated as second-class citizens on our own land,” he said.

“If the government wants to get this transition done, it needs to put communities at the centre, not at the end of the queue.”

NEW ZONES: The map shows the original Renewable Energy Zones, REZs, in the draft plan in yellow, with the shaded areas showing the footprint of the new REZs in the finalised Victorian Trasnmission Plan.

Touring after dark

The Wimmera Biodiversity Seminar returns to Dimboola this year – featuring an evening tour of Snape Reserve.

The seminar, on September 4, will start at 12.30pm at Dimboola Golf Club where participants will not only be entertained by guest speakers, but will enjoy the culinary delights of chef Cat Clarke.

The 28th Wimmera Biodiversity Seminar, with the theme ‘Creatures of the Night’ is departing from the usual full-day event to a lunch-time start so that participants can take part in the evening tour.

Continuing without a break for 28 years, Wimmera Biodiversity Seminar has brought knowledge, experience, research, practical applications and revelations, as well as inspired many fascinating conversations to the region.

Organising committee member La Vergne Lehmann said the theme focused on creatures of the night, ‘fas-

cinating animals, fungi and plants that do amazing things when most of us are not watching’.

“Twenty-eight years and still going strong, our audience knows that we work hard to present an amazing day of information, entertainment and for this event, illumination as well,” she said.

“The speakers will provide some fascinating insights into what happens when the sun goes down and these animals, fungi and plants come out to play.

“We also love being able to support small communities by bringing the event there and in the case of Dimboola, it is after the recent January fires.”

This year’s event includes six presentations throughout the afternoon event on microbats, bioluminescent fungi, the brains of spiders in a world of light pollution, and the tail of the squirrel glider.

As well as a field trip to Snape Reserve, guided by Trust for Nature,

participants will receive a handmade and unique mug crafted by artist Wendy McInnes, of Wartook Pottery.

This year’s logo, poster and program have been created by Laticia Shanaughan, a Wimmera local who is studying for a Bachelor of Environmental Science and Conservation at Federation University

Registrations have opened and tickets, through Humanitix, are already selling fast.

People can follow information about the event through the Wimmera Biodiversity Seminar Facebook page.

The event is supported by a range of organisations including the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, DEECA; Wimmera Catchment Management Authority; Bank Australia; Hindmarsh Shire Council; Barengi Gadjin Land Council; Yarriambiack Shire Council; Horsham Rural City Council; GWMWater; and Trust for Nature.

Blood bank bus rolling into Ararat

Ararat Rural City Council is again partnering with Australian Red Cross Lifeblood to host its Blood Bank Bus in October.

Following on from previous successful community visits, residents will have another opportunity to roll up their sleeves and donate blood to help save lives.

The Blood Bank Bus will be in Ararat to give locals the convenience to make a blood donation close to home.

Mayor Jo Armstrong said with blood supplies always in demand, every donation made a difference, with one donation able to save up to three lives.

“The fact the Blood Bank Bus always books out is a testament to the generosity and community spirit of our local community,” she said.

Cr Armstrong encouraged community members to register for a donation slot.

Spaces are limited and bookings

are essential. People can book at: lifeblood.com.au/donor-centre/vic/ ararat-mobile-donor-centre, via the Donate Blood app, or by phoning 13 14 95.

The bus will be at the Ararat RSL and Ararat Library Car Park, 74-76 High Street, from October 14-18.

The donation times are open between: October 14, 12-5.30pm; October 15, 12-7pm; October 16, 127pm; October 17, 10.30am-5.30pm; and October 18, 8.30-11:30am.

Award-winning architect Adam Haddow will return to Ararat to share his vision for the rural city.

Networking breakfast

An award-winning architect, agribusiness leaders and Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Tim Harrison will be among speakers at the next Greater Ararat Business Network Business Breakfast event next month.

The Business Breakfast series aims to offer attendees networking opportunities while keeping them informed on key developments in the Ararat region.

The next event on September 4 will feature Adam Haddow, an award-winning architect originally from Ararat and now Sydney-based, who will share his vision for the potential of urban design in Ararat.

Dr Harrison will provide an update on local council projects across the region, while members of the Commonwealth Bank regional and agribusiness

team will discuss investing in and supporting businesses in the community.

“Ararat Rural City Council is proud to support opportunities that bring together our region’s business community,” Dr Harrison said.

“Events like this networking breakfast help spark new ideas, strengthen local partnerships, and position Ararat as a place where businesses are empowered to grow and thrive in the future.”

The Business Breakfast will be in the function room at Ararat RSL, 74-76 High Street, Ararat, from 7am to 9am on September 4.

People interested in attending must register by Monday, September 1, via www.trybooking.com/DEMYR.

COUNTING DOWN: Horsham College students are putting the final touches on their production 13 The Musical, which will take to the Horsham Town Hall stage for three shows, starting tomorrow night. Pictured during a dress rehearsal on Monday are, clockwise from above: Clara Shirrefs as Richie; Paige Millar as Molly; Isaac Gregor, as Brett, thumps Henry Overman, as Evan, in front of Annnabelle Gregor who plays Kendra, left; Violet McGennisken as Lucy and Isaac Gregor as Brett; Lily Wearn, Amelia Altmann and Paige Millar; Henry Overman surrounded by cast members; and centre, Orlan Hart as Archie and Ella Lloyd as Patrice.

Invest, watch it grow

When you have a spare $500 and are wondering whether to spend it or save it, consider a third option – invest it.

Make a commitment to your financial future instead of wasting it on purchases that will deliver only temporary pleasure.

Invest that $500 and watch it grow. Here’s how.

Decide on a goal

Investing with a purpose means that you are more likely to stick to your intention. If your aims are short-term, such as spending one to three years increasing your available funds for a holiday, then choose a lower risk, passive option.

A term deposit or high interest savings account is probably your best choice. You can find the best rates by searching for ‘high interest term deposit’ or ‘high interest savings account’. Note that some savings accounts have qualifying criteria for the high interest rate, such as a minimum monthly deposit.

If you have longer-term objectives, such as accumulating a house deposit, saving for retirement, or simply building wealth, you could contemplate taking more risk in order to generate the potential for higher returns. Consider investing in the share market.

Investment type

Assuming that you have longerterm goals that will not be satisfied with a savings account, you have several share market choices that lend themselves to a $500 investment:

• Exchange-Traded Funds, ETFs: ETFs are an excellent choice for

FINANCE focus

getting started in share market investment. They deliver diversification because your investment is spread across a large number of companies. This reduces your risk while mirroring the generally growing value of the market over the long term.

• Managed funds: In a managed fund your money is pooled with that of other investors. The fund manager buys and sells assets with the aim of steadily increasing the value of the fund. Before investing, check the fund’s fees, any withdrawal restrictions, and long-term historical returns. Since some funds’ minimum initial investment is higher than $500, your choice of funds may be limited.

• Robo funds: Robo funds are online investment advisors using AI and algorithms to make investment suggestions and allocate funds. They are particularly useful for initially small investors, with features like automated regular small investment deposits, or investing the spare change from your credit or debit card purchases. However, fee structures can be complicated and their investment strategies vary widely.

• Individual shares: Investing in individual shares can be risky. If you’re not a stock market expert, it’s best to stick to strong, blue-chip companies, but you may struggle to meet the minimum trading parcel size for companies with a higher share price.

Select a platform

If you wish to avoid managed funds and micro-investing robo fund apps, you can still control your own investment portfolio via a share market broker. The ASX has a comprehensive list of both full service and online brokers.

Full service brokers tend to have minimum investment and amounts larger than $500, and higher fees, but online brokers generally have a low flat transaction fee. You can link your online trading account to your bank account for speedy deposits and withdrawals, and making a buying or selling transaction is relatively simple. It would be a good idea to stick to investing in ETFs until you find your feet.

Take a long view

By all means start with $500, but to see your portfolio really start to grow you will need to commit to adding to your invested amount regularly.

A monthly automated deposit, however small, from your bank transaction account into a savings account or online investment platform will create long-term wealth.

Don’t panic if your share portfolio value suffers short-term falls. Follow the advice of billionaire Warren Buffet and aim to stay in the market for the long term rather than buying and selling frequently.

Get some good advice

As with all financial decisions, good advice is of paramount importance. Contact your financial adviser for expert guidance on building a secure financial future through sound investments.

LUNCHBOX LEGENDS: Birchip P-12 School students, led by Kristy Knights, will serve up healthy lunches at BCG’s Main Field Day on September 10.

Serving up healthy choices

Birchip Cropping Group, BCG, and Birchip P-12 School will partner to deliver healthy and affordable lunches to attendees at BCG’s Main Field Day as part of a Lunchbox Legends initiative.

Hospitality students at the school, led by teacher Kristy Knights, will prepare a fresh menu based on National Centre for Farmer Health, NCFH, guidelines, aiming to fuel conversations about diet, wellbeing and the role of health on farms.

BCG project manager Louisa Ferrier said Main Field Day, which will be in Birchip on September 10, typically attracted about 500 growers, advisors, researchers and secondary students each year to explore research trials and network with experts and other farmers.

“We know the most valuable asset

on any farm is its people,” she said. “Lunchbox Legends is about starting conversations around making small, healthier choices during busy periods like sowing and harvest, that can have a big impact over time.”

The initiative builds on other BCG health-focused efforts, including free water refills, sunscreen stations, free health checks and special guest speakers such as Mark Modra, who spoke about the importance of fatigue management at last year’s event.

Lunchbox Legends is supported by the Look Over the Farm Gate Community Grants program, funded by Agriculture Victoria under the State Government’s 2025 Drought Support Package.

For more information about the BCG Main Field Day, see AgLife, inside today’s edition.

Benchmark

Isuzu Ute Australia says its MY25 MU-X seven-seat SUV range is setting new sales benchmarks across the country, with the recently updated model range registering ‘extraordinary market response’ since its arrival in March.

Having finished 2024 as Australia’s sixth best-selling four-wheel drive overall – and outright third in the sub$80,000 large SUV segment – MU-X deliveries were tempered in quarter one of 2025 due to low stock levels of run-out 24MY MU-X models.

Isuzu Ute Austalia, IUA, said that changed with the ‘influx’ of MY25 models, reporting 1643 sales in May, followed by 2033 unit deliveries in June – an all-time monthly record.

Another 1635 units were delivered in July, setting yet another monthly record.

IUA said it was the first time its dealer network had achieved more than 5000 MU-X sales – 5311 to be exact – in any three-month period, with IUA managing director Junta Matsui saying demand for flagship X-Terrain variants had been particularly strong.

“With its effortless combination of capability, value and versatility, our ambition was for the new MU-X to be well received,” he said.

“But these results have confirmed just how strongly Isuzu Ute’s allpurpose SUV resonates with a broad cross section of Australians.”

Year-end results for 2024 saw a total of 17,978 MU-X models delivered to Australian buyers, when Isuzu Ute’s family-focused SUV was Australia’s 15th best-selling car overall.

IUA said interest in the MU-X suggested a potential increase even on that record result, pending supply exThailand.

Notably, the Isuzu MU-X rallies strongly against segment competitors, including ute-based rivals from Ford, Mitsubishi and Toyota.

As a genuine four-wheel drive offering – one that is fitted with a dualrange transfer case and high ground clearance – the MU-X vies directly against the Ford Everest, GWM Tank 300 and Tank 500, Jeep Wrangler, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Toyota Fortuner, and Toyota LandCruiser Prado, as well as up to 19 other large SUV

contenders. Adhering to those rivals with comparable abilities to the Isuzu MU-X, a standout success in year-todate sales is the Toyota LandCruiser Prado, with 17,922 deliveries securing a 21.4 per cent segment share, ahead of the Ford Everest, 14,719 units for a 17.6 per cent share, Isuzu MU-X, 9453 units for 11.3 per cent, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, 3306 units and 3.9 per cent, and GWM Tank 300 with 2810 units for 3.4 per cent.

The top five four-wheel drive finish

ers are trailed by the Toyota Fortuner, 2003 units and 2.4 per cent, GWM Tank 500, 894 units and 1.1 per cent, and slow-selling Jeep Wrangler, 264 units for 0.3 per cent.

The sub-$80,000 large SUV segment is currently Australia’s third most popular with total year-to-date sales of 83,822 units, or 11.8 per cent of the overall new-vehicle market.

Of those, the genuine four-wheel drive offerings listed previously comprise a combined volume of 51,371

units, or 61.3 per cent of the segment overall.

“With spring approaching and school holidays almost upon us, IUA is determined to help more families unlock the best of the Australian lifestyle,” Mr Matsui said.

“From off-road to on-the-highway, from the Red Centre to the school run, MU-X delivers both reliability and refinement in a genuine go-anywhere, do-anything vehicle.”

– Matt Brogan

INSIGHT: Isuzu Ute Australia is celebrating ‘extraordinary market response’ to its facelifted MU-X SUV.

Mahindra unveils road ahead

Indian

auto-maker Mahindra has unveiled several concept vehicles and announced it is moving to a new modular multi-energy platform to be implemented under its recently announced Global Vision 27 program.

The NU-IQ platform will underpin a new range of ‘disruptive’ premium SUVs exemplified in a quartet of concept vehicles that offer a glimpse of the manufacturer’s next-generation vehicles, scheduled to enter production as soon as the beginning of 2027. Concepts based on the new platform cover multiple applications including family SUVs through to more focused 4x4s, comprising the Vision.S, an apparent Suzuki Jimny rival, the Vision.T, a GWM Tank 300 rival, Vision.SXT, Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco rival, and Vision.X, a rival of the Toyota RAV4.

They were engineered at Mahindra Research Valley to address market ‘white spaces’ while staying true to Mahindra’s credo of ‘turn-on design – unmissable presence, spirited performance, on-tap power, world-class safety, sci-fi today and tough yet sophisticated’.

Mahindra says the concepts ‘represent their commitment to redefining personal, all-terrain mobility for a global audience, combining strong brand heritage with advanced, expres-

sive design’. Each model has a distinct personality and was developed collaboratively by Mahindra India

Design Studio, MIDS, in Mumbai and Mahindra Advanced Design Europe, MADE, in Banbury, UK.

Mahindra’s ‘flat-form’ skateboard

NU-IQ architecture takes the first flatfloor internal combustion engine, ICE, SUV from drawing board to reality,

suggesting such a model may be first cab off the rank for production, although it is not yet known if or when this will reach Australia.

The platform’s lightweight design is said to deliver ‘top-tier’ safety standards complemented by ‘sci-fi tech’ with an intuitive ‘NU-UX: Next-gen Integrated Domain Architecture’ technology suite.

How this interplays with Mahindra’s BE – Born Electric – range of models underpinned by the company’s purpose-built Inglo platform, which uses components and batteries from Volkswagen Group’s MEB architecture, remains unclear.

Mahindra says the NU-IQ platform is engineered to address untapped market niches across India and global

markets, giving the company an adaptable architecture suitable for multiple top hats – bodies, powertrains, front and all-wheel drive layouts, and adaptability for left and right-hand drive markets.

With a production start imminent, the new vehicles feature a new styling language, which Mahindra calls ‘Heartcore design’ and will be equipped with a ‘command’ seating position, ‘superior’ driving dynamics and a ‘super spacious’ cabin with class-leading boot space.

Speaking at the NU-IQ platform reveal, Mahindra president of automotive technology and product development Velusamy Ramasamy described the architecture as ‘a strategic blueprint for the future of Mahindra SUVs globally’.

“With its modular, multi-energy architecture, it gives us the flexibility to innovate across multiple top hats and powertrains whilst staying true to our SUV DNA,” he said.

“Designed to resolve paradoxes, NU-IQ forms the foundation for our next generation of SUVs.

“It marks a bold step and the start of a new era that frees customers from compromises and puts truly desirable, premium core SUVs squarely in the mainstream.”

– Peter Barnwell

EXPANDING: A multi-energy skateboard platform will underpin a plethora of new Mahindra SUVs from 2027.
Mike Bush
Chief Commissioner Victoria Police

On This Day

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: September 1, 2005 –The Country Covergirl and Charity Queen Quest winners were announced – organiser Andrea Cross is pictured with prize-winning contestants, clockwise from top left: Amy Bell, Lateesha Gascoyne, Lauren Clark, Sophie Cramer, Mary Bysouth, Breeanna O’Brien and Sarah Matthews. The quest was judged by Girlfriend Magazine fashion editorial assistant Belinda Frizza. The event raised $5500 for Natimuk Road Kindergarten and was hailed a success by organisers, who had already started planning the 2006 quest.

10 years ago: August 26, 2015

Heritage painting works were underway at Horsham Town Hall, after the hall was added to the Heritage Register in 2011. Sample areas had been painted to review recommended heritage colours, while other works such as tiling in toilet areas and the installation of theatre equipment were underway.

Five years ago: August 26, 2020

Nhill businesswoman Jo Ussing provided an unofficial library for those who were unable to access the usual service during COVID-19 lockdowns. Mrs Ussing offered a collection of books for borrowing, available from her shop Westprint Outback Maps and Books. She said she offered the service to cheer people up, and found people had donated books to the collection.

One year ago: August 28, 2024

The last of the Norfolk Island pines that lined Ararat’s Barkly Street were scheduled to be removed, following community consultation about the trees’ poor condition. It was unknown whether disease, lack of water or end-of-life was the cause.

TaKE a BREaK

yOUR LUCKy sTaRs

Australia’s

FOR THE WEEK AUGUST 31 TO SEPTEMBER 6

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Dark Green

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 4, 5, 5, 9

Lotto Numbers: 3, 18, 23, 28, 32, 33

1. On this day in what year, did US Senator Barack Obama become the first African-American to be nominated by a major political party for President of the United States, by the Democratic Party?

2. How many eyes do bees have – two, five, or eight?

3. Who said, ‘Before you marry a person, you should first make them use a computer with slow internet to see who they really are’?

4. True or false? Peanuts are not nuts.

5. What, also a brand of camera, is the name of the home of the Greek Gods?

6. The Oxford English Dictionary 2023 Word of the Year, ‘rizz’, is derived from which word?

7. How old are the earliest known Homo Sapiens fossils: 3150, 31,500 or 315,000 years old?

8. Which standard unit is a measure of sound frequency?

9. Last week’s Children’s Book Council of Australia’s Book Week, which encourages the love of reading through various activities and celebrations in schools, libraries and early learning centres, celebrated its 80th anniversary. What was this year’s theme?

10. Which American blues guitarist died on this day in 1990 in a helicopter crash at the age of 35?

Answers: 1. 2008. 2. Five. They have two large compound eyes on the sides of their heads and three smaller simple eyes, called ocelli, located on the top of their heads in a triangular pattern. 3. Will Ferrell. 4. True – peanuts are legumes. 5. Olympus. 6. Charisma. Referring to a person’s ability to charm and attract a romantic partner, it gained popularity through social media, especially TikTok and Twitch. 7. 315,000 years old – the skull and jaw fragments were found at the Jebel Irhoud site in -Mo rocco in the 1960s. 8. Hertz. 9. ‘Book an Adventure’. 10. Stevie Ray Vaughan.

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

Advertising: Mark Sulic: 0407 313 456, marks@team.aceradio.com.au; Lee Meadows: 0407 046 864, leem@team.aceradio.com.au; Kelly Schilling: 0437 894 257, kschilling@aceradio.com.au; Danica Cutter: 0488 473 562, dcutter@aceradio.com.au; Heidi Higginson: 0438 759 220, heidih@aceradio.com.au; Lily Olver: 0411 784 001, lolver@aceradio.com.au Newsroom 5382 1351: Lauren Henry: lhenry@aceradio.com.au; Bronwyn Hastings: bhastings@aceradio.com.au; Colin MacGillivray: cmacgillivray@aceradio.com.au; Georgia Bailey: georgiab@team.aceradio.com.au

Focus on completing your immediate tasks and delegate when possible. Accepting help will free up time for rest and relaxation. This is a productive period for those who prioritise their workload wisely.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Brown

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 1, 9, 7, 3

Lotto Numbers: 3, 11, 13, 24, 31, 33

Pleasant surprises and thoughtful gifts may come your way. Your love life will bring joy, though travel plans might require adjustments. Financial prospects are set to improve soon.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 7, 2, 3, 5

Lotto Numbers: 12, 23, 25, 30, 38, 44

This is not a favourable time for bargains, so avoid unnecessary purchases. Focus on action rather than overthinking to advance in your career and business.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 6, 2, 5, 6

Lotto Numbers: 13, 20, 26, 31, 32, 40

Take health matters seriously and address any issues. Avoid keeping secrets as they may unintentionally slip out. Discretion is essential this week.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Gold

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 4, 6, 2, 5

Lotto Numbers: 1, 9, 18, 29, 36, 37

Positive thinking will help you succeed during this period. Be open to opportunities – something good and unexpected may come your way. Others will appreciate your efforts.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Plum

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 5, 1, 2, 8

Lotto Numbers: 8, 19, 24, 30, 31, 42

Most of your plans will succeed, and time spent with loved ones will enhance your happiness. Mixing business with pleasure is not advisable this week.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Purple

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 7, 3, 6, 9

Lotto Numbers: 7, 12, 15, 23, 30, 38

Managing household expenses will be your priority. Good news will help you tie up loose ends and resolve lingering issues. Real estate transactions can yield positive outcomes.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 8, 2, 4, 1

Lotto Numbers: 2, 17, 19, 27, 39, 44

Now is an excellent time to learn new skills or refine your expertise. Accepting limitations can sometimes open doors to better opportunities. Gatherings with family or friends will bring joy.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Aqua

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 7, 2, 4, 3

Lotto Numbers: 10, 18, 21, 32, 33, 41

Decisions may feel challenging, so allow events to unfold naturally. Avoid paying in advance for items you have not yet received, and exercise patience.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 5, 1, 8, 3

Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 18, 26, 30, 32

Romance might be expensive, so consider budget-friendly options. A trusted advisor could assist in making significant career decisions. Stay calm in any conflicts that arise.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Aqua

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 3, 7

Lotto Numbers: 5, 15, 22, 26, 30, 43

Avoid overindulgence for your health. There are better times to take risks in business. Romantic relationships are improving, but caution is advised with irritable individuals.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 4, 8, 1, 6

Lotto Numbers: 2, 17, 23, 26, 35, 36

This is a highly romantic and loving period. Loved ones will appreciate your ideas, but clear communication is essential to avoid misunderstandings.

LOCAL TRADE DIRECTORY

PROUD SUPPORTERS OF LOCAL SPORT

Fill in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and 3x3 block.

Quick Workout

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

Longerenong College student Katy Pollard showcased

Decades of industry growth

Hay producer Johnson’s is celebrating 30 years of operation and continued expansion in the Horsham area, with a community presentation and tour that showcased its new Dooen plant.

Now merged with a Japanese company and operating as Johnson Asahi, operations manager Russell Hier said the occasion was an opportunity to thank the hay growers, who are situated from Bordertown to Donald, to Ararat and Hopetoun.

“Thirty years is a long time, it’s a celebration of being at Horsham, but it’s to thank the growers more than anything,” he said.

Production moved to the first of two sheds at Dooen about three years ago, with the Horsham site closing about 12 months ago.

“It’s all been moved out here now, and we’ve changed how it works –the x-ray is now in line with production, which has been a big change,” Mr Hier said.

“The majority of the hay is then exported, with some kept for domestic use for the live cattle boats.”

Hay is transported to the site on a needs basis from storage facilities at Johnson’s depot sheds or growers’ farms, before being processed and transported via road.

The Victorian Farmers Federation, VFF, welcomed the release of the State Government’s Victorian Freight Plan 2025-30 earlier this month.

VFF president Brett Hosking described the plan as a positive step toward strengthening the state’s freight network and delivering improved outcomes for the Victorian agriculture sector.

He said the VFF appreciated the opportunity to contribute to the development of the strategy through its participation in an industry stakeholder reference group.

“Ensuring we have a fit-for-purpose freight network that delivers increased efficiency, productivity and safety is a non-negotiable and this plan must strive to deliver exactly that,” he said.

Mr Hier said there were no set amounts supplied by growers each season.

“At the end of the day, nature dictates what happens,” he said.

Serviceton farmer Leon Heinrich said he had been selling hay to Johnson Asahi for about three years, ‘for many reasons’.

“Making hay helps us clean up our paddocks,” he said.

“We have about 46 staff working 24-hour days at Dooen,” Mr Hier said. “Ideally the target is 50 staff –most of it is onsite learning, and we have skilled forklift and loader drivers and plant operators.”

“Obviously, you cut them for any weeds in your cropping paddocks, and it’s quite economic and viable for us to do so.

“Instead of letting the crop go and then trying to combat our weeds, ryegrass is the main one, we cut it and do the hay in our rotations. It works well because it helps us with the weed control and it’s pretty reasonably lucrative as well.”

Mr Heinrich, who produces fat lambs alongside cereals and legumes, said he sold sheep off early.

“We were selling the hay rather

than feeding it to the stock – it’s just a management decision we made,” he said.

“It’s just all part of the game we’re in. But the potential is there for above-average rain in Spring.”

Mr Hier said among the improvements the facility was making, was dust management.

“We’re working on a few little things to try and compress and get rid of it, we’re working on a few solutions,” he said.

“There’s always something happening here.”

“We’re particularly pleased to see initiatives aimed at improving access to and the competitiveness of the Port of Melbourne, which is essential for the export and import of agricultural products and inputs vital to farming operations. Victorian produce has never been in such demand in the global market and investment in our critical freight infrastructure will help ensure we retain our mantle as Australia’s most valuable agriculture exporting state.”

The plan outlines 58 initiatives under four key objectives.

Mr Hosking said the publication of key performance indicators to track the plan’s success would provide greater transparency and accountability, but that adequate funding would be essential and that current commitments only covered a limited number of initiatives.

MARKING A MILESTONE: Johnson Asahi operations manager Russell Hier leads a tour group through the Dooen facility to celebrate Johnson’s 30th anniversary at Horsham. Leon, Matt and Angela Heinrich are also pictured. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Planning for the land and self

Planning for different futures and recovery from their outcomes, in good times and bad, was the theme of an Agriculture Victoria adaptive farming workshop led by Think Agri consultant Kate Burke at Wonwondah last week.

Dr Burke said the points of productivity, landscape, climate, people management, including self-management, and decision-making were discussed.

“It’s about how we can make better decisions, and then put together some planning tools to bring that all together,” she said.

“It’s about adaptive planning for different futures, so in good times and in bad – the main takeaway is to think about different futures and plan for each type of scenario.”

Dr Burke said the current late season presented different scenarios, such as moderate or good rainfall, and how that could impact harvesting plans.

“It’s the same with temperatures –what happens if we get a really hot day in the middle of September, and things like that,” she said.

“So just to think through scenarios and then you’re sort of ready to act if you need to.”

The profit drivers of farming were also discussed at the workshop.

“The guts of it is, and I wrote this in

a book a couple of years ago, if you’re good with production, so good with crops and livestock, good with people, and good with money, you can make money out of farming,” she said.

“But the tricky bit is you don’t always know what you’ve got until you’ve got it.

“In the good times it’s around using the surplus of those good times strate-

gically, so you’ve got something in the nest egg for the poor times, and then in the poor times it’s about taking opportunities you’ve got, but at the same time battening down the hatches so that you’re not leaking money.”

Dr Burke quoted Mark McKeon, who said that stress was not the problem, the problem was lack of recovery.

“For the young blokes playing footy,

they go and do their recovery on the Sunday morning, go and walk in the pool and whatnot, looking after their legs, we’ve got to do that with our minds and bodies as well, even if it’s just getting away for a weekend,” she said.

“We can be really hard on ourselves and we’re used to being frugal and self-sacrificing, but we’ve probably

“The guts of it is, and I wrote this in a book a couple of years ago, if you’re good with production, so good with crops and livestock, good with people, and good with money, you can make money out of farming”

learnt that those stoic ways of our parents and grandparents actually don’t serve us that well.

“It’s not about blowing the budget and being silly, it’s about looking after ourselves and being kind to ourselves.”

Dr Burke said attendees appreciated the opportunity to attend the workshop and take time away from their farms.

“They could think about working on the business rather than being in the business, just to be able to have a bit of thinking time,” she said.

Dr Burke also hosted the workshop at Dunkeld on Thursday and Friday, following the Wonwondah workshops on Monday and Tuesday. People can find more information about drought support at www. agriculture.vic.gov.au/drought or call 136 186.

FINDING BALANCE: From left, Cherie Wood, Joel Pymer, Think Agri consultant Kate Burke and Andrew Bell during an adaptive farming future workshop at Wonwondah.
Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

My new best friend

Imust confess that I was extremely sceptical when I first tripped over the concept of artificial intelligence.

Like many livestock farmers, mention AI and I’d first jump to artificial insemination. Often to my embarrassment.

Then when it was discussed as a possible way to make a reporter’s life easier, I dug my heels in. Now I must confess it has made my work as a reporter much easier.

Dr Google working hand-in-hand with AI is a beautiful thing.

Type in a few words pertinent to a topic and ‘Bob’s your uncle’, albeit not perfect every time.

My search today on Australian Wool Innovation and the breakdown of funding to 60-40 marketing and research told me Stuart McCullough was still chief executive of AWI.

Woolgrowers will know he parted company some time ago.

Where is this all leading? To a 19-year-old with his display of worker bee drones at the recent FutureAg Expo in Melbourne.

Attracted like a certain bear to honey, I was intrigued by the stand’s video display of drones spraying very hilly, largely inaccessible paddocks in Gippsland, to drones with heat sensors detecting calving cows at night, to even mustering cattle.

I shouldn’t have been so surprised.

If Ukraine can take out 40 Russian jets using smuggled drones, very much in the fashion of the Rogue Heroes TV series on the first battalion of Special Armed Forces, the possibilities are endless – if you’re into war dramas, you simply must watch Rogue Heroes.

What was the standout was that this young

Country Today

man had set up his own business using drones to do jobs that farmers could not.

Trying to negotiate such rugged terrain wasn’t possible on foot, let alone with tractors or ATVs.

First the drones use AI to map the topography of the country, probably the slowest part of the process.

Then the drones take flight on autopilot and do their thing.

And Ethan, the 19-year-old, has set it all up himself. I was stunned.

I’ve struggled to put together a Bunnings wheel barrow. Actually, I couldn’t put together the wheelbarrow and a friend came to the rescue.

The icing on the technology cake was when he introduced me to his Mum who was there helping him on the stand.

We gave each other that knowing ‘proud mother’ glance as I used the latest in audio technology to interview him with a tiny microphone through my mobile phone and emailed the audio to myself, all with it automatically transcribed.

Forty years ago, I was carting around a 10-kilogram reel to reel tape recorder and then racing back to the office to edit the interviews quite literally with a razor blade and sticky tape. Technology is becoming my new best friend.

Main Field Day on September 10.

Wheat, barley trials focus at field days

Visitors to BCG’s Main Field Day at Birchip on September 10 will have an opportunity to hear the latest on national trials of wheat and barley varieties.

BCG research agronomists

Anna Marcus and Ashlee Tierney will present an overview of Grains Research and Development Corporation’s, National Variety Trials, NVT, program.

The talk will examine how key varieties are performing under this season’s dry start, and what growers should be watching for as spring unfolds.

“There’s always an interest in what came out on top last season, and this year, we’re also taking a close look at how

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To

early establishment has played out given the challenging conditions in May and June,” Ms Marcus said.

Attendees will receive updates on top-performing varieties including Shotgun, Tomahawk, Brumby and Rockstar, as well as barley standouts Compass, Neo and Combat.

With no significant disease pressure so far this season,

BCG officials said the focus would be on growth, yield potential and agronomic performance.

Ms Tierney said growers could also get an early look at new, unnamed varieties in the pipeline.

Ms Marcus and Ms Tierney will be joined by plant breeders and local agronomists for an interactive discussion covering varietal traits, herbicide tolerance groups, and how newer lines are shaping up under Mallee conditions.

Growers are encouraged to ask questions and take advantage of an opportunity to talk directly with researchers, breeders and agronomists. For more information, people can visit bcg.org.au.

“This year we’ve included two new barley lines. One is an IMI-tolerant variety from Intergrain suited to low rainfall environments, and the other is a herbicide tolerant line for low rainfall conditions from AGT,” she said.

ALL WELCOME: BCG research agronomists Anna Marcus, left, and Ashlee Tierney will share the latest wheat and barley varieties at BCG’s

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Grass roots ram sale

Glenelg Regional Merino Field Day at Balmoral sold 76 of its offered 96 rams, with a top price of $8000 for Stud Park South Merinos.

Field day president Warren Russell said a similar number of rams were offered at the event last year.

“We had a good line-up of rams, the crowd might be a bit lighter than normal, which is probably understandable for the season,” he said.

“Prices seem to be going okay, but it’s important to get your product out so people can see it, so grassroots sheep breeders and wool growers can come and see what’s available locally.”

Several studs participated in the event, with an average sale price of $2246.

Stud Park South sold two of four, with a top of $8000 and an average of $6250; Glenera North poll six of six, $6500, $3375; Kevlyn 19 of 19, $6500, $2750; Kurra Wirra five of five, $4250, $2550; Glenpaen four of four, $4000, $3000;

Rockbank south two of two, $3509, $2750; Mount Yulong six of six, $3000, 2000; Wurrook two of three, $2500, $2250; Melrose two of five, $2250, $2125; Gleneden 11 of 14, $2250, $1522 Gringegalgona 14 of 20, $2000, $1285; with Kalena Poll nil of four, and Glendonald and Orrie Cowie both nil of two.

Mr Russell said prizes were awarded to the topsellers – the best group of sale rams was won by Craig Eagle of Glenera North for the first time.

“The champion long wool sale ram was won by Glenpaen and the reserve was Melrose, the champion short wool sale ram was won by Stud Park South, with the reserve Glenera North. It was a very good night for Craig Eagle,” he said.

Mr Eagle, who farms south of Horsham, said he took 10 sheep to the event, and was pleased to be awarded.

“I’m very happy – it was good to get recognised for my work. For the season, they’re really good,” he said.

GOOD TIMES: Left, Ollie Close and Willeka Beaton enjoy the day; middle, judge Geoff Davison with Craig Eagle, of Glenera North stud, won the Fitzgerald trophy; and right, John Brewis, Coby Brewis and Andrew Howells at Glenelg Merino Field Day at Balmoral earlier this month. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Student stampede to study at Longy

Longerenong College’s new year enrolments have ‘delighted’ staff, with an overwhelming amount of interest in its agricultural courses following its annual open day.

College marketing and business development co-ordinator Brad Barber said about 40 students had already enrolled.

“We had some fantastic conversations during the open day and have been really pleased with the response since,” he said.

“There is a lot more choice now and we’re trying to give students a bit more of what they want.

“We are adjusting our courses to suit what we’re seeing in the industry, and what the industry wants from graduates.”

Mr Barber said students could ‘mix and match’ to study two courses each year, taking in the college’s agronomy, agribusiness, and wool classing qualifications.

“We expanded on our displays this year, with agronomists in the agronomy rooms, wool classers in the wool classing room, and we had

one of the trainers with our drones in the technology room,” he said.

“We had a lot more interactive displays where students and their parents could come and talk to the trainers and get an understanding of how the students learn on campus.”

A jump-on, jump-off bus toured groups to show steers, an historical display, partner RAGT’s on-site greenhouse, and the college’s agribusiness centre.

“We set up stations where prospective students could speak with current students about courses, scholarships and apprenticeships, finance, and generally living and studying at Longerenong,”

Mr Barber said.

“We had students doing walking tours as well, which took in the on-campus living and dining areas.”

Mr Barber said the open day was a culmination of a number of touch points, after meeting some of the applicants at career expos and field days.

“Prospective students are excited, but by the end of the day, parents are getting excited because they can see the potential for their children as well,” he said.

Fine achievement for Katy

ing

This year studying Certificate IV in

ture

Certificate IV

First-year Longerenong College student Katy Pollard enjoyed success at the Australian Wool Show at Bendigo, winning first place in both her woolclassing sections.
agricul-
and
in wool classing, Ms Pollard said her family had ‘a few sheep at home’. “I haven’t done much with them, but I’m look-
to get into it,” she said. “My grandparents had sheep and cattle when I was growing up and I’ve had horses, so I just wanted to do some more with the sheep and cattle and livestock industry.”
Ms Pollard said she would study agronomy and agribusiness next year.
INTERACTIVE: Longerenong College students, from left, Katy Pollard, Lexie Heinrich and Amelia Lymer with woolclassing teacher Craig Mackley during the college’s open day.
ON SHOW: Longerenong College student Bella Hardy during the college’s steer show.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Left, Andrea, David, Archie and Ellen Coates spent time exploring Longerenong College during its open day. Below, college students Olivia Sudholz and Georgia Anderson show prospective students Jobe Harten, Blake Mannes, Cameron Strachan and Noah Edwards around the college.
Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Classifieds

70th

Wedding Anniversary

~ WRIGHT ~ Jim & Therese

27-8-1955

Wishing you both a lovely anniversary.

Love from the all the family; Donna, Butch, Melinda & David, 6 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren.

CUTTER, Jeffrey Robert

Passed away on August 24, 2025. Aged 62 years.

Dearly loved friend of Ellen.

Adored father and father-inlaw of Damien, Anthony & Danica, and Lachlan. Treasured memories.

CUTTER,

Jeffrey Robert

22-12-1962 to 24-8-2025

So many beautiful memories of special times shared.

You will be so sadly missed. Ellen

He was brave, courageous, and a risk-taker.

A hard worker who understood the importance of family above all else.

He was stubborn but also kind and giving, a funny, often inappropriate “shit stirrer” who could bring laughter and brighten any room.

To us, he was just dad.

Love ya dad

Damien, Anthony & Danica and Lachie.

“Full noise matey”

Love Damien

“Keep it in a straight line”

Love Anthony

“Get back to the goal square”

Love Lachie

ETHERTON,

CUTTER, Jeffrey Robert

Beloved son of the late Sid & Heather Cutter.

Loving brother & brother-in-law of Barb, Eric (dec), Ian,Will, Sharon, Fiona & Dean.

Idolised uncle & great-uncle to 17 nieces & nephews.

We are so broken, a big part of our family has slipped away from us. Jeff you will be forever in our hearts.

Love & condolences to Ellen, Damien, Anthony, Danica & Lachlan xx

Jeff our breaky and coffees will never be the same. Here is hoping the cappuccinos in heaven are always extra hot mate… Love, your big brother Ian xo

Much loved Brother & Best mate of Will.

Dearly loved Brother-in-law of Sharon.

Treasured Uncle of Christie, Danielle & Nick.

Very Special Great-Uncle of Evie, R-Jay & Pippa xx

Some people leave this world, but never leave our hearts. Its not just their absence we mourn but the silence where their voice used to be & the light they brought into our lives.

Reunited with Mum & Dad

Keep those wheels turning Jeff

All our love Will & Shazz xxx

Uncle Jeff, what a wonderful journey in life we have been on together, from a little blonde haired girl to an adult, I have always had my best friend by my side.

I am not sure how I am meant to navigate life without you. We have shared so many wonderful & incredibly special moments together, which I will treasure forever.

I am going to miss our regular chats, going out for breakfast & you yelling out at me across the street for everyone to hear.

You were always there to guide & help me whenever I needed you. My heart is broken, I love you with all my heart & a piece of my heart will belong with you forever.

I love you Uncle Jeff, I will never forget you, rest easy now & keep those big wheels turning.

Lots of Love always and forever Christie xxxx

Uncle Jeff, I am so sad that you are gone, it’s just not fair, you are my best friend. I just really wish you could stay with us forever.

I am going to miss our special times together, our coffee & apple juice catch ups & most of all you and I stirring up Mum & Pa. You could always make me laugh even when I was sad.

Uncle Jeff I promise to keep eating our Tim Tams & I will keep on trucking for you. I love you so much forever my best friend.

I love you to the moon and back a million times.

Lots of love always and forever.

Your special little mate R-Jay William xxxxx

Uncle Jeff although the time has come for us to part you will never be far away because you are always in our heart.

All the memories that we shared will never disappear.

The time has come for you to join the stars and light up the sky just like you lit up our lives, you will be forever loved and deeply missed. Keep it in a straight line. We love you more than lollies.

Love Danielle, Nick, Evie and Pippa

Jeff, our lives changed forever the day you went away.

Our hearts so heavy, we wanted you to stay.

We are at a loss & not sure what to do.

Our world feels so lonely, already without you.

We hold your kindness, your humour, your laughter, your love deep in our hearts. Jeff, you were adored by so many, & we are so very proud of you buddy. Rest easy….

Love always Ona, Dean, Jack, Tayla & Sid xx

Betty

The President Committee

And Members of the Horsham Croquet club Inc

Regret the passing of our Esteemed Past President Betty on 3-8-25

Sincere sympathy to Betty’s family

HOLTKAMP,

John Frederick

“Jack”

10/05/1935 - 12/08/2025

Eldest child of Georg and Johanna Lauterbach (both dec).

Adopted son of Victor and Violet Holtkamp (both dec).

Brother to George (dec), Ingrid, Renate (dec) and Jörg (dec).

Loved father and fatherin-law of Rennie and Peter, Rohan and Sandra, Ingrid, and Shane and Lee.

Beloved Grandad to Quade and Mich, Maelisa, Melinda and Dan, Claire and Julia, Michael and Taylah, Seth and Ellie, and Tia.

Great-grandad to Oliver (Ollie).

At peace with his Lord and Saviour.

PARKER, Raymond John

Passed away on August 19, 2025 aged 81 years.

Dearly loved husband of Sandra (dec).

Loved by all his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Gone but not forgotten

SIMPSON, Roma May

Passed away peacefully, 22nd of August 2025, aged 87

Sister of Rae

Sister-in-law of Peter (dec)

Auntie of Kim and Jodie & Families

Rest in Peace

TAYLOR, Brian George

29.1.1961 - 20.8.2025

Dearly loved Son of Joan Britton & the late George Taylor

Fond Stepson of Alf (dec)

Loved Brother-In-Law of Colin & Julie, Stephen & Annette, David, Dianne & Tony and Robert (dec)

Our loved one at rest, no more pain.

CUTTER, Jeffrey Robert

The funeral service to farewell the late Mr. Jeffrey Cutter will be held at Horsham Church of Christ, River Road on Wednesday 3rd of September commencing at 1.30pm with interment to follow at Horsham Lawn Cemetery.

Amity & Dylan Hartwich 5382 1149

HOLTKAMP, John Frederick “Jack”

A Memorial Service to Celebrate the Life of John Frederick “Jack” Holtkamp will take place at St John’s Lutheran Church, Murtoa next Friday, 5 September 2025 commencing at 1pm Privately cremated.

Murtoa Funerals

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5385 2833 AFDA Member

PARKER, Raymond John

Please see next edition for funeral details.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

WILLS, Athol

1930-2006

My memories go back to the 1950’s when we first met, memories are mine to keep. Ath, love you Heather

Thank you ~ PAYNE ~ Lynette

Terry, Sharon, Brendan and their families would like to thank everyone who attended Lynette’s funeral on July 22, 2025, as well as those who visited, called, sent flowers, cards, or brought food. Our sincere gratitude goes to Wimmera Funerals for their compassion during this difficult time. Also a heartfelt thank you to Sharon Hinch for the lovely service given at the graveside, and to Kings Katering for providing the refreshments at the wonderful Edenhope Golf Club.

Lynette was deeply loved and her kindness touched many lives. The support we received from friends and family has been a great comfort to us during this time of loss.

Death Notices

3 year old black and tan bitch working kelpie, great yard dog, Ph or PM for details to Harry 0458318200

Aged pensioner looking to buy a male chihuahua, 1 1/2 - 2 years old Ph 0421237043

Beeamma White, Australian White Stud purebred rams, private sale on farm, BRUC, ACC, OJD, VAC, ewes available, Elders Alan Thompson 0427849779, Rod Donnell (08) 87582095

Bristlenose catfish , great tank cleaners $5ea until sold out Ph 0474159010 after 6.30pm

Budgies , assorted colours

$10 each Ph 0417533579

Cocker Spaniel pups for sale, purebred pups black, female available from September, microchip# 978142000982266, Source#

R185238 Ph 0429912620

Kelpie puppies for sale, good working parents, great temperaments, 2 male brown/ tan, 2 female black/tan and 2 male black/tan available, currently 7 weeks old and have been vaccinated and microchipped, source# MB 286176, 956000018852127, 956000017246586, 956000017239009, 956000017249996, 956000017239349, 956000018852851, $500 Ph 0408575398

Love birds assorted colours $20 each pick up only Warracknabeal Ph 0447776408

Mixed breed of goats, pregnant females, young male goats, mixed sheep available for sale, call for prices Ph 0414851313

Princess Parrots for sale, breeding pairs, various colours Ph 0439655239 Stawell area

Purebred black faced

Dorper , rams and ewes, rams 2yrs old, ewes 9months old, pic# 3HSDC083 Ph Liz 0419664345

Purebred German Shepherd, 7 months, black and tan, great temperament, toilet trained, straight, one boy & one girl source# MB115424, m/chip# 956000016586733/6681104 Ph 0421018631

Reduced price to reflect age of puppies, Spoodle puppies, 2 Spoodle girls - could one of these girls be the missing piece in your life, raised in a loving family environment with sweet natures, 6 week vacations, microchip and vet checked, ready to join their new furever families. Born 9 May, microchip# 956000017221175 & 956000018924045, source # EE223376 $2000 price neg Ph 0400035456

Welsh Pembroke male and female Corgi puppies red and white, born 11/6/2025, vet checked vacc and microchip, available on the 8/8/2025 for there new home, microchip# 953010007914643, 953010007914649, 953010007914762, 923010007914686, the pups are reg with MDBA and come with Pedigree paper on limited reg, source# RB110579 Ph or text for pic and info 0448024815

Restored Antique cast iron/ timber garden benches $250 each Ph 53522691

13' 1992 Colt Caravan, tv, a/c, 2 way fridge, awning, VGC, reg till May 25, as is $8500 Ph 0487750540

1998 Cameron Canvas Camper , fully enclosed annexe, off road tires, double innerspring mattress, always stored undercover $5000ono Ph 0439553575

2000 Jayco starcraft , full annex, TV lots of extras, very good condition, one owner, very little use $20,000 or nearest offer Ph 0456601681

2013 Jayco Starcraft, 21', one owner, very little use, as new, many added extras suit retired couple planning to travel $39,000 Ph 0427909230

2014 JB dirt roader 19’caravan, full ensuite queen bed, 3 way fridge washing machine, reverse cycle a/c diesel heater, Sirocco fans, 2 solar panels, 2 batteries, 280 litres water $44,000 Ph 0427902375 Beulah

REDUCED Caravan 2015

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

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

Colorado Summit 210E 21'

Queen bed, large ensuite, full oven, 3way fridge, washing machine, A/C, diesel heater, sirocco fan, solar panels., lithium battery, AC-DC charger, rollout awning Great condition many extras $48000 ONO Ph 0400189163

Jayco Finch Pop Top, double beds with fly mesh, electric brakes, boat rack, annex

$12,000 Ph 53582560

MDC Highside Cruiser 2019, 3 ton McHitch, fridge, redarc dc to dc charger, EC $14,500 Ph 0407147996

REDUCED 2014 Jayco Silverline Outback

23ft-72-1, satellite dish, gas heater, 4 x 130 watt solar panels = 520 watts, Epever Triron 42ION MPPT 40 AMP controller, 2 x llithium batteries, 227 litre compressor fridge/freezer, full annexe

$48,000 Ph 0448099981

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

Jayco starcraft, 16ft, queen sized bed, tv, full sized fridge freezer, microwave, gas electric hotplates and oven, toilet and shower, full annex, sway bars $36,000 ono Ph 0417573022

REDUCED Jayco Optimum 2013 motor home 28.5', 2 slides, extras inc, 400 watt solar, diesel heater, bulbar, security system, 92,000kms, $150,000 Ph 0438951101

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

REDUCED Toyota Coaster camper , 2 seater, diesel heater, 1hz motor, solar and 12v awning much more $35,000 Ph 0418325662

Roof top tent, 2024 Outback Tourer, hardshell with ladder, 230 watt solar panel & roof rack, 12V power inside, 2 x cig socket & 2 x USB ports, 360 LED internal light strip, 1.5 width x 2.1 length, EC $2500 Ph 0418350445

Slingshot campervan, light weight, easy to tow and setup, annexe, two single beds, EC $13,900 Ph 0429585845

11 PVC pipes, 39" long x 6" diameter, $50 for the lot Ph 0428504301

2 saddles, 2 bridles, 2 horse bits, 1 drench bit, 1 riding cap Ph 0447590865

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

Brick pavers , H shaped, beige colour, 1600 $800 Ph 0459027575 Stawell

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, new Holland Mower GC with parts, 44g drums ideal for grain feeding cattle, best offer Ph 0429857207

Folding bike with training stand $350, Snow sled 1050x500 $45 Ph 0418992631

Galvanised trailer, 5x5 $800 Ph 53522691

Gold and opal ring, approx 80yrs old, current valuation $4500 would like $2500 Ph 0458014560

J Berends pasture harrows 8' $400 Ph 0429309491

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

Rinnai Convector portable gas heater, VGC, $50 Ph 0427911765, 0477138363

Nhill

Round bale hay ring $350 Ph 0429200566

Sherwell PTO bin $1200 Ph 0428857312

Stereo $200, Outdoor setting $150, a round table and chairs

REDUCED $290, a beautiful organ paid $8000 selling for $3500, fridge $200, Chiffonier paid $950 selling for $350, outdoor vacuum $50, ironing board $60 Ph 53824788

Stihl FS 38 whipper snipper, just serviced, VGC, $65 Ph 0427911765, 0477138363 Nhill

Carlson Console Radio, ex condition Ph 53824316

Tent Dune Eyre, 10x10, near new, easy set up for Easter Ph 0491644368 Horsham

Toledo 4 berth dog float, good condition, reg til Dec 25

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

Single bed , excellent condition, includes mattress if needed and doona covers $100 ono Ph 0417566140

Wall unit sliding door & shelves $30, coffee table with tiled top $25, timber corner unit $15, outdoor setting with 4 chairs & laminex oval table $80 Ph 0409967815 Horsham

3.7 m boat and cover , QL624, an aussie made trailer P83061, Yamaha 15 HP motor, near new $4000 Ph 53582560

3.7 savage aluminium boat, UM198, 25 HP Mercury forward steer reyco trailer, b15834 electric motor and lawrence fish finder $2600 Ph 0428523919

Extreme Motorboat , low hours, well maintained, $45,000 Ph 0428788212 Pietscraft 3.5m Fishing Boat, 15hp, Johnson tilt trailer, boat cover, all accessories $5000 Ph 0428822730

Stacer Aluminium fishing boat, 25 horsepower Yamaha outboard motor, trailer & boat registered, VGC $6000 Ph 0498549832

Strongberg

Aspire wheelchair, as new condition, barely used once a day for 3 months, extremely comfortable, cost $3500 from Action AIDS, reduced price $950 Ph 0427562913

Horsham

Freedom forearm walker

$250, wheelchair $150 Ph 0437600095

Invacare Pegasus mobility scooter, excellent condition, includes, shade canopy, front basket & rear carrier $3500 Ph 0408826727

Quickie electric wheelchair, hardly used, EC $16,000 neg Ph 0429881523

Top Gun mobility scooter, EC, shade canopy, front basket, rear carrier, inspections welcome $4000 Ph 0438354414

2020 Harley Low Rider 107 FXLR 1745 cc, heaps of extras, EC, rego 3 monthly basis, 27,270 kms, 2K4ZJ $20,000 Ph 0409590596

BMW K1200 RS, 2010 model, comes with panniers, top box, reg til Aug, RW, BY136 $4800ono Ph 0419508310 Stawell area

REDUCED BMW R1200RT

Solo, 2007, Ex SA Police, GO, HGR, EWS, CC, RW cond, unregistered, service manuals $3000 Ph 0428154961

Mitsubishi Lancer , 2000, excellent condition, genuine kms, registered, RWC on sale, TXU090, 92,813 kms $3750 Ph 0418319587

Peugeot 407 HDI, beautifully cared for car, $8000 Ph 0484355030

REDUCED 2013 VE Commodore V6, grey, aftermarket exhausts, aftermarket speakers in doors, subs in boot, GC, will provide road worthy certificate, 240,000km, ZOT852 $9000 Ph 0488050839

Hilux Toyota tray, excellent condition with push on tarp $1200 Ph 0484355030

2010 Holden Captiva , 4-cylinder automatic, petrol, cruise control, 5 seats, 5 doors, a/c, electric windows, tinted windows, remote central locking, parking sensors, black exterior and black/ grey interior, 205,602 km still works well, has wear and tear for its age, some paintwork damage to bonnet, selling due to new work car $2500 Ph 0438132484

1994 Ford ED Futura Auto 4.0i, drives strong, great duco, no RWC or rego $5500 Ph 0409423541

2005 SP Mazda 3 Hatch, 5 speed manual, power steering & aircon, black in colour, 1YD6TE, 193000km, RWC, $4500, Ph 0423335246

2011 Honda 750 Shadow Shaft, as new cond, reg til 2/26, spares inc some new, 27,700kms $5250 Ph 0488023477

2013 Ford Mondeo Zetec hatch, auto, economical turbo diesel, silver colour, full service history, registered June 25, RWC, 317,000km, 1AG2PW $5500ono Ph 0428928248

Ford BF Sedan 2005, dual fuel, ex cond, 280,000kms, WIY315 $4500 Ph 0468 559 166

Honda Civic , 1994, great condition with RWC, automatic & aircon, colour black, Vtech motor, vin JHME6548005203141 $10,000 Ph 0428501109

2011 Triton Extra Cab 4x4 diesel manual ute, towbar, trailer brakes, extra battery, trade racks, business sold no longer needed, current RWC, 40,000km on fully rebuilt engine, WWT002 $16,000 Ph 0419505783

2005 Isuzu NPR250 car license truck, 6 months rego, 230,000kms, 1OC9FA

$22,500 Ph 0438521591

2014 Isuzu D-Max, 5 speed, auto, 3.0lt turbo diesel, 4x2, Tommy Gate loader 460kgs, RWC, reg til 19/1/26, 285,658kms, 1DQ6HB

$23,990 Ph 0466375088

2014 Toyota Hilux, 3 litre diesel, new shockers and springs and injectors, oil filter and oil every 600km, great for towing vans, 290,000kms

$25,500 Ph 0417109816

2019 Ford Ranger XLS grey double cab with full screen, very good condition 125,000km, 8 mths rego, new tyres, snorkel, arb bull bar, air bags, side steps, black duck seat covers, under tray tool boxes, many extras always shedded, minimal towing

$45,000 inc Gst Ph Andrew 0427923236

Stawell Lady recently moved to Stawell, interests include art, camping, ukulele, singing, bushwalking, dancing, looking for a respectable man for possible relationship aged between 60 -70yrs Ph 0413375338

Wanted Mackenzie punch and shear, have you got one in the shed not being used? Ph 0499911102

Toyota Ute, no Ev tax on this one, dual cab SR5 auto transmission, 3 litre motor, diesel, 2011 model, RWC supplied, high rise canopy, tub liner, trailer pull, electric brakes, as new inside, 106,500 kms, YFK992 $32,500 plus Gst Ph 0428 832 227

Landcruiser Prado 150 series 31/8/90 alloy nudge bar, PZQ2960420, serial# 0110 $155 Ph 53569340 or 0412482521 Landsborough

Landcruiser ute with slide on camper, 2002, 4.2 litre diesel, 4x4, Millhaven tray towbar, bullbar, Superwinch, tool lockers, Polyair bellows, Davsher hitchhiker camper, new 90L, 3-way dometic fridge/freezer, fiamma awning, 2 burner gas cooktop/griller, sink,120kW fold up solar panels, 200W inverter, 200AH AGM house batteries, queen bed, robe, spacious storage, midge-mesh screening, Highjacker hydraulic legs, 2nd spare wheel, plus extras, excellent condition, 228,961km, HZJ79R Ph 0427482976

48 year old separated/single true gentleman bloke from Horsham who likes reading, music, occasionally going out for dinner then next the movies or watching movies at home, fishing and camping, walking and swimming, looking for 48+ old lady for serious relationship Ph 0491230835

Ararat man, 67 years old, interests include gym, fishing, camping, singing, acting, Lions Club, bushwalking, ballroom dancing, looking for a lady aged between 40-70 years old, Ph 0467791009

Ararat

Jill Nicholson went to Dover girls tech in the 60s Adelaide, lived 5 Broadway South Brighton left Adelaide to live in rural Victoria early 70s Ph John 0423315174

3 bedroom house to share, near Horsham cbd, own walk in robe and ensuite, semi-furnished Ph 0427963906

Looking to Buy a Home in Horsham I'm a genuine buyer seeking a house in Horsham. If you're considering selling-now or in the near future-please get in touch. No agents, just a straightforward sale, any condition considered, call or text Ara on 0425906535

Funeral remembrance videos edited with cherished media by professional, each project individual, AI photo restoration available Ph 0478609837

Keyte's mowing service , lawn mowing, lawn aeration (coring), block slashing, general pruning Ph 53826461 or 0429309491

Massage service, very clean, full body massages available for both men and women, very discreet, you come to us or we can come to you, call for quote and booking, in the Wimmera area and beyond Ph 0473311660

Massage ......Don't deprive yourself of time to be completely pampered, to made feel like you've not felt in a very long time, discreet in all aspects, is here at your service, can have all your sensual desires catered for including massage oils to help you relax, feel comfortable and put you in a state of euphoria, clean in all regards, a safe home environment, including off street parking that you can arrive at your appointment at ease, catering for both male and female Ph 0422275320

Sheep slaughtered at $15 per head Ph Andy 53838240

TOP STUDENT TUTORING, one-to-one individualised tutoring for Years 7-12

English, working with Children

Check Ararat & Stawell, email Philippa: philippak1@bigpond. com

Aged pensioner looking to buy a male chihuahua, 1 1/2 - 2 years old Ph 0421237043

Wanted, Billy Goat service for 2 milking goats Ph 53840253

2 tanker loads of water as running low

Do You Wish to Have More Time?

We all struggle with time. The question is why? There are many things that can drain our time away from our life. One of them is distraction. Interestingly, most things that become a distraction are not unavoidable. Rather, it’s the opposite; things become a distraction because you allow them to be. So how do we create a space in our busy life? Nehemiah is a capable guy who is incredibly busy. All of this, while facing opposition from enemies. You can find his story in Nehemiah 6. Nehemiah’s enemies plotted to distract him by attempting to make him confront them. They tried all sorts of incitement and provocation, but Nehemiah’s answer was firm. Nehemiah said, “No”. Why did he reject such an opportunity to ‘win’ from the opposition? Nehemiah understood just because he could, doesn’t mean he should. We all have that moment of regret when we are distracted or over-committed to something that is not our priority. Here’s the wisdom that is offered from Nehemiah’s response. Saying no, creates boundaries. Boundaries create space. Do you wish to have more time? Perhaps it’s time to set up boundaries and say, ‘no’. This is a prayer from Reinhold Niebuhr (19th century pastor) - “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Amen.”

Kevin Tanan - Olive Branch Church, Ararat

Design & Construction: Nhill Tank Renewal Project

Contract Number: C01445

GWMWater invites tender submissions for the design and construction of the Nhill Tank Renewal Project.

The Contract includes the following scope of works:

> Construction of tank foundation.

> Design and construction of 1,800 kL tank.

> Design and construction of tank interconnecting pipework.

> Supply and installation of control valve.

> Supply and installation of instrumentation.

> Integration of new control valve and instrumentation into existing SCADA (Control) System.

> Testing and Commissioning of the completed works.

A compulsory site inspection at the Nhill Urban Water Facility Site, Corner Western Highway and George Street, Nhill, will be held at 1 pm Tuesday 9 September 2025. To register for this site inspection please contact GWMWater’s Senior Project Engineer Chris Baker.

More information regarding this tender is available from the Buying for Victoria website, tenders.vic.gov.au. Enquiries may be directed to Chris Baker, Senior Project Engineer at chris.baker@gwmwater.org.au

Tender closes: 2 pm, Thursday 2 25 September 2025. GWMWater reserves the right to accept tenders in part. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted.

Mark Williams Managing Director

GWMWater is an innovative water corporation providing, managing, operating and protecting water supply and sewerage systems within the Grampians, Wimmera and Mallee regions of Victoria.

Need help spreading the word?

Call The Weekly Advertiser on 03 5382 1351 or email weeklyadvertiser@team.aceradio.com.au

The College is seeking a full time professional and experienced General Manager to lead the successful operation, governance and growth of the College Rare opportunity to join a well regarded agricultural college

You will be responsible for driving the ongoing success of the College through partnerships, marketing, increasing numbers and promoting Longerenong College as a progressive educational institution whilst being at the forefront of agriculture technologies and opportunities

For a confidential discussion, contact Darren Webster, CEO on 5381 6200 or email: darren webster@skillinvest com au

Applications must address the key selection criteria and be accompanied by a covering letter and submitted via kylie pickering@skillinvest com au

Applications close Thursday 4 September 2025

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Entries now rolling in

V

olleyball Horsham’s 30th anniversary annual tournament will go ahead this year and entries are starting to roll in.

The milestone event was in doubt due to the staging of the World Beach Volleyball Championships in Adelaide in the two weeks around the event, but Volleyball Victoria has given the all clear to run what has become a staple on the Victorian volleyball tournament calendar.

Volleyball Horsham vice-president Matt McLoughlin said the tournament had come a long way in its 30-year history –starting with 10 teams, six mens’ and four womens in 1994 and again in 1995.

“The tournament has always been seen as a great way to finish the year for most clubs, especially for those with players finishing their year-12 exams, as it came at the right time,” he said.

“The association took the opportunity to host the tournament as a hole developed in the tournament calendar due to Shepparton not hosting its tournament.”

By 1996, the tournament had more than doubled its number and did so for most of the rest of the decade, necessitating the use of the Horsham College gymnasium as a second venue.

Some of Victoria’s premier clubs have supported the tournament over its 30 year history, with Heidelberg men and women’s teams proving too strong in the first decade – the men winning four of the first six and their women winning six in a row.

The middle decade belonged to Padua Sharks who accessed some of the best players from Adelaide, enabling them to win five of eight between 2002 and 2010.

The women’s spoils went to Melbourne Uni Renegades from 2010 to 2020, winning five titles in that period.

Then along came an amazing group of boys from Mazenod who were the premier team in Victoria from 2010, as they recorded seven successive men’s premier titles only to be denied by a Volleyball Horsham men’s team in 2018.

Volleyball Horsham women’s premier team has won two of the four this decade to stamp its legacy on the event, while BBJSC Pakenham has won four consecutive premier men’s titles, along with state league victories and National Club Championships in the post-COVID era.

The event reached an all time high in 2023 when 59 teams entered, necessitating the need for 10 courts and for the first time the use of the Ian Maroske Hall and Wimmera Lutheran College hall for matches involving junior teams.

Last year 47 teams participated, making it more manageable for the association’s volunteers.

McLoughlin said the growth in participation not only came from Volleyball Victoria affiliates, but also unaffiliated teams, and those teams had let down the tournament in the past two years with their lack of understanding of what commitment was required.

“Unfortunately some teams have failed

to play on the Sunday over the past two years, leaving a bitter taste in the mouths of all participants and organisers,” he said.

“So a seismic change has been instituted for the 2025 edition of the tournament, with the tournament now an invitationonly event, with invitations extended to long-time supporter clubs and teams.

“Hopefully this weeds out those who have let the event down in past years, and they get the message loud and clear that their participation will come with special conditions should they wish to go on a waiting list.”

McLoughlin said there were plenty of associations and clubs in Victoria that looked forward to the tournament season, which ensured good numbers for the events.

“We’ve seen Bendigo and Mornington experience an increase in their tournament numbers in the same period, so we know they are out there,” he said.

“We just want to keep our event free of those who see the dollar sign as their only reason to participate, rather than participating in the spirit of the Horsham Tournament that has stood us in good stead over the journey.”

The 30th anniversary tournament will be throughout the weekend of November 15 and 16 and will be preceded on the Friday night by the seventh edition of Harry’s Match.

Tournament entries close on November 1.

NOTCHES MILESTONE: Horsham horseman Aaron Dunn notched up his 400th winner in the sulky on Saturday night at Melton and, fittingly, it was with a horse he bred, educated, owns and trains. Three-year-old gelding Ruff Nut out-toughed the opposition to score a deserved victory in the $15,000 Renown Silverware Pace in a rate of 1:55.7 for the 2240-metre journey. The son of former juvenile performer Poster Boy took his record to five wins and five placings from 22 starts and also gave Dunn his 220th as a trainer. Just two hours later, the stable’s white, yellow and blue silks were back in the Melton winner’s circle when Dunn reined his three-yearold colt Forty Love to an all-the-way victory in the Pryde’s Easifeed Pace.

NEW – MASSAGE

DUNN

Semi-final action starts at Yanac

With the end of the Wimmera Hockey Association’s regular season and the commencement of the finals this week, the pressure to perform ramps up, with more significant rewards on offer for the winners and more dire consequences for a team that loses.

After 15 rounds of hockey, dominant leaders have emerged at the top of each competition who deserve to enter the finals as favourites, but regardless of accomplishments up to this point, it will be performances over the next three weekends that will define the season.

The semi-finals will be played at Yanac on Saturday and will see some great games of hockey as six teams compete for direct passage to the grand finals and six others play for the chance to remain in the race.

Open

First semi-final: Kaniva Cobras v Horsham Hurricanes.

The Cobras and Hurricanes have enjoyed similar seasons, marked by patches of good form and periods of below-par performances, but their thrilling draw on Saturday suggests the form of both teams is peaking at the right time of the season.

While at the weekend they put on a quick and skilled display on the artificial surface at Dimboola, this week will be a totally different game.

On the grass at Yanac, and with the prospect of some rain during the week, both teams will need to reassess their game plan to adapt to vastly different conditions.

With a head-to-head record of a win each and a draw, this game could go either way, with the Cobras’ victory when they last met at Yanac possibly making them slight favourites.

Second semi-final: Yanac Tigers v Warrack Hoops.

One of the longest-running and fiercely contested rivalries in Wimmera sport will write another chapter on Saturday when the Yanac Tigers and Warrack Hoops once again play off for a place in a grand final.

For several decades, these two teams have been putting on entertaining shows in their regular meetings, but with the Tigers undefeated so far in 2025, including two wins and a draw against the Hoops, and their current undefeated streak now reaching 68 matches, it is not easy to tip against them qualifying for another season decider.

Despite this, the Hoops are sure to test them and do their best to repeat their victory in the same game in 2019, the last time the Tigers were defeated.

Women

First semi-final: Kaniva v Horsham Jets.

Both Kaniva and Horsham Jets have shown irregular form across this season, and both play with more confidence when certain key players are on the field, so the availability and fitness of these individuals will be a key factor in which team earns a place in the preliminary final and whose season comes to an end.

Kaniva’s two big wins over the Jets earlier in the season suggest they have the better overall form, but a hardfought draw at the weekend showed the Jets are closing the gap.

Recent finals experience and the incentive to keep their premiership defence alive should see Kaniva victorious, but they will have to work hard to earn it.

Second semi-final: Yanac v Dimboola Roos.

Yanac goes to the 2025 finals as fa-

FOCUS: Nhill Thunderbirds’ goalkeeper Erin Wallace is focused on the ball as Yanac’s Mikayla Mackley lines up for a shot at goal during a penalty corner.

vourites with an unblemished record, which will be hard to tip against, but if any team can mount a serious challenge, it is the Dimboola Roos.

Both teams will start equal on Saturday, with their season to date meaning little once the first whistle is blown, and they will have to battle four hard quarters of hockey to earn the prize of a place in the grand final.

Under-16

First semi-final: Kaniva Raiders v Warrack Revengers.

After an intense three-way battle for the last two places in the finals that has been played out over the latter half of the season, Kaniva Raiders and Warrack Revengers now have the chance to prove that they deserve to be there alongside the leaders.

With the next task for the winner to take on one of the dominant two teams in the preliminary final next week, they will want to boost their confidence with a strong performance this week.

This will be one of the closest matches of the first round of finals, with the record between the two being two drawn matches and a narrow victory for the Raiders two weeks ago, which might give them the advantage.

Second semi-final: Nhill Leopards v Yanac Warriors.

The Warriors and Leopards have dominated this competition, finishing well ahead of the rest of the field, and they could not be much more evenly matched after going into the last round tied on points.

A one-goal win to the Warriors last Saturday was all that has separated them after 15 rounds of hockey, but in the finals, both will start from scratch in a winner-takes-all match.

The game being played on the Warriors’ home ground is the only tangible point that can be used to separate these two on paper, so it is now up to the teams to show on the field which can hold their nerve the longest in the big games.

Round-15 results –

Open: Horsham Hurricanes 1 (goal, T. Leffler; best, T. Batchelor, W. Gulline, P. Mackereth) drew with Kaniva Cobras 1 (J. Clark; J. Clark, N. Dickinson, L. Mills). Yanac Tigers 6 (T. Alexander 2, J. Harding, J. Honeyman, B. Alexander, A. Zanker; T. Alexander, B. Alexander, S. Alexander) d Nhill Rangers 1 (S. Carew; J. Knoll, H. Gill, J. Reichelt).

Women: Horsham Jets 1 (H. Mackereth; M. Trillini, M. Noallies, A. Heal) d Kaniva Women 0 (S. Williams, L. Stimson, I. Williams). Yanac Women 11 (E. Alexander 3, C. Alexander 2, M. Mackley 2, I. Hedt, S. Hedt, A. Farmers, H. Zanker; E. Alexander, A. Farmers, S. Hedt) defeated Nhill Thunderbirds 0 (K. Clark, B. Cannell, B. Clark). Dimboola Roos 9 (J. Hauselberger 4, E. Baldock 3, N. Kuhnell, V. Ward; J. Hauselberger, A. Rintoule, N. Kuhnell, E. Baldock) d Warrack Women 1 (S. Williamson; S. Williamson, E. Williamson, Mel Bentley).

Under-16: Horsham Bombers 1 (J. Di Pietro; J. Di Pietro, J. Mackereth, H. Di Pietro) drew with Kaniva Raiders 1 (J. Beattie; J. White, J. Beattie, C. Champness). Yanac Warriors 2 (S. Pedie, I. Hedt; S. Pedie, L. Dickinson, L. Cramer, H. Zanker) d Nhill Leopards 1 (D. Bee; O. Bone, B. Clark, L. Clark, T. Bee). Warrack Revengers 3 (N. Eilola, C. Peters, S. Williamson; N. Eilola, E. Williamson, R. Bish, S.Williamson) d Dimboola Kangaroos 1 (J. Ward; L. Hauselberger, J. Ward, R. Hadzig). Development program: Horsham Black Hawks 5 (A. Neumann 2, L. Rose 2, M. Rose) v Kaniva Rampagers 0. Yanac Lowan Stars 0 v Nhill Bandits 2 (N. Krelle, Z. Chequer). Warrack Avengers 2 (M. Marra, L. Hauselberger) v Dimboola Kookaburras 1 (L. Elliott).

Pigeons beat driver home Country series entries soar

Wimmera Kart Racing Club is celebrating its most successful event in years after hosting round four of the Victorian Country Series go-kart competition.

Nearly 200 entrants descended on the club’s track at Dooen for the twoday event on Saturday and Sunday.

Club secretary Phil Hobbs said it was the highest number of entries the club had seen for its leg of the series since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It was a big success for us. We had about 140 or so entries last year and we had 198 this year, so it was a good turnout,” he said.

“Someone was saying we had similar numbers before COVID, but this is our biggest number of entries since COVID.

“The Victorian Country Series as a whole this year has been getting record numbers across the four rounds so far. It’s definitely picking up for us. Every event has been packed to the gills, which has been great.”

Local racers enjoyed success at the event, with Remo Luciani winning the combined masters category, Robbie Turmine finishing third in the KA3 senior medium class and Hobbs taking second in the restricted medium category from a field of 18 drivers.

Hobbs said he was looking forward to continuing the series, with the final two rounds in Hamilton next month and Cobden in October.

“I’ve had a pretty good run this year, so I’m looking forward to trying to continue that run and finishing out strong,” he said.

Hobbs said the Wimmera Kart Rac-

ing Club would host a few more club racing days before it officially wrapped up its season, with anyone welcome to enter the club days.

He thanked the club’s volunteers, sponsors and Horsham Rural City Council for supporting the event.

“Everyone walked away pretty happy. I think that early spring vibe

helped out a bit – everyone was in a good mood,” he said.

“Our event last year was marred with a bit of rain in between sessions and everyone hides under their gazebos.

“Every time it’s over winter it’s a toss up what the weather is going to be, and we race rain, hail or shine.”

Entrants of Horsham Racing Pigeon Club’s race from Colac on Tuesday last week made remarkable time, arriving home 15 minutes ahead of their driver.

The fourth race on the southeast line, 11 members entered 152 pigeons.

The winning pigeon averaged 75 kilometres per hour, or 1234 metres a minute, on the presumption it flew the 205-airline flight path in a straight line.

This is most unlikely as racing pigeons tend to by-pass mountain ranges, in this case the Grampians.

A slight easterly breeze, later tending north-easterly, would have assisted the entries.

John Aisbett registered the win, with a two minute 16 second gap to the second placed pigeon, owned by Terry Brauer.

Leigh Arnott was third, 15 seconds later again.

Friday’s races from Coombah, 30 minutes apart, were 418 airline kilometres from Horsham on the north line.

Seventeen members entered pigeons in the two races, the northerly breeze of eight to 14kph provided great assistance.

In the open age race, 324 pigeons were entered.

The winning pigeon, owned by the Paul and Sue McPhee partnership, flew the 422 kilometres at 1735 metres a minute, or 104kph.

Rob Nelson’s first pigeon was only 21 seconds behind the winner with Brian Watts’ first home 1.05 after the winner.

There were 273 entrants in the second Coombah race, restricted to young birds in their first year of racing.

To the surprise of many members, a small number of those 273 young birds caught up the 30 minutes to the earlier open age pigeons to arrive home the same time as the open race winner.

A young bird owned by Brian Watts took first place, just 17 seconds ahead of second-placed Bruce Rentsch’s entry, followed 16 seconds later by Rob Nelson’s in third.

The first three pigeons averaged close to 118kph, the winner flew at 1969 metres a minute.

The next race will again be from the Coombah Roadhouse.

SUPPORT: Young karter Jack Morrell gets some last minute support from his dad Haydn Morrell.
TAKING THE LEAD: Horsham’s Remo Luciani leads Ash Mitchell in the Combined Masters event.
Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

AFL LIVE ON

Around the leAgues

Minyip-Murtoa crowned club of year

Minyip-Murtoa Football Netball Club has won both the state and national Toyota AFL Community Club of the Year awards.

The Wimmera league club was nominated for a range of initiatives that reflect its ongoing commitment to community, growth, and inclusivity –in the face of population decline.

Key elements were the introduction of women’s and girls’ football at the

club as part of the Wimmera League’s inaugural season – showcasing its long-standing commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity in sport; growing its junior membership base, particularly through Auskick level, which increased by 35 per cent this season – largely due to the launch of its new junior development program in Horsham; and upgrading its facilities across both the Minyip and Murtoa precincts – a major achievement

LEAGUE’S BEST: Horsham District Football Netball League’s junior best and fairest awards were presented on Monday night. In the netball, 17-and-under best and fairest was Abbey Williams, of Kalkee, pictured above, and the runnerup Phoebe Sudholz, of Natimuk United; 15-and-under winner Ruby Williams, Pimpinio, above centre, and runner-up Maya Przibilla, Laharum; 13-and-under winner Ane Van Zyl, Rupanyup, above right, and runner-up Makaylah Rabone, Natimuk United. The football’s under 17 best and fairest was Micah Erhardt, Noradjuha-Quantong, pictured right, and runner-up Hugh Weidemann, Rupanyup; and under 14 best and fairest Judd Oakley, Noradjuha-Quantong, far right, and runner-up Joel Plazzer, Laharum.

The league’s senior vote count and presentation night is on September 8.

made possible by record levels of cocontribution and vision for long-term investment in the community.

President Chris Delahunty said it was exciting for the club – particularly its volunteers – to be recognised with the awards.

“It’s great recognition of the amount of work that the club has done to put our club in the right direction,” he said.

“It’s just a really inviting club –

we’re fully inclusive and I think the way we’ve shown that is by introducing our women’s and girls’ football, that we’re a place for all avenues for people to play sport  and with our junior programs, just to bring kids in, of all backgrounds, just so they can have a great social connection to our community through our club.”

AFL Wimmera Mallee region manager Ange Ballinger and AFL Wimmera Mallee club development lead

Liam Brady made the announcement to the club following a training session last week.

The club will be formally recognised with a prize package that includes a three-night trip to Melbourne, an invitation to the Welcome to Melbourne function, attendance at the AFL Grand Final parade, and a reserved seat ticket to the 2025 Toyota AFL grand final, plus a celebration at the AFL Victoria awards in October.

Solid start for Ararat Eagles

Ararat Eagles and Tatyoon each made the best possible start to their Mininera and District Football League finals campaigns at the weekend, winning against Penshurst and GlenthompsonDunkeld respectively.

The Eagles and Bombers faced off at Great Western on Saturday for the right to challenge minor premier Lismore-Derrinallum this weekend.

The Bombers were one of only two sides to beat Ararat this season, inflicting a 42-point defeat in round 12, but the Eagles were up for the challenge.

A tough, low-scoring first term saw Ararat nab a slender four-point advantage despite recording fewer scoring shots, but thereafter they began to dominate proceedings.

With captain Jack Taurau setting the tone as he rucked to a dominant midfield including Jesse Bennett, Tom Cousins and Chevy Cameron, the Eagles kicked 10.12 to 5.10 after quarter time, going on to win 13.14 (92) to 7.14 (56).

The result earned them a berth in Saturday’s second semi-final against the Demons at Willaura, with a spot in the grand final and a week of rest awaiting the victor.

Meanwhile Tatyoon’s success story continued at Penshurst on Sunday as the Hawks downed Glenthompson-Dunkeld 9.12 (66) to 6.10 (46) in an elimination final at Penshurst.

With skipper Josh Bibby kicking three goals and Lachie McGrath adding two, the Hawks had enough firepower to overcome the Rams in the low-scoring match – atoning for their eight-point loss in round five in the process.

Sunday’s first semi-final at Lismore represents the toughest test yet for Tatyoon, which has now won eight of its past nine games.

Tatyoon’s only meeting with Penshurst this season saw the Bombers triumph by 34 points, but came before the Hawks’ mid-season form reversal.

The winner of the match will play the loser of Saturday’s meeting between the Eagles and Demons for the other spot in the grand final.

horshAm district leAgue

Weekend stage set

The stage is set for a pair of potential instant classics as the Horsham District Football Netball League gears up for its senior semi-finals this weekend.

Reigning premier Harrow-Balmoral will challenge minor premier Noradjuha-Quantong for the right to advance directly to the grand final on Saturday, while Laharum and Pimpinio will on Sunday renew a budding rivalry that has produced multiple thrillers in the past two years.

The Roos and Bombers will square off at Kalkee Recreation Reserve on Saturday in a rematch of last season’s grand final, and while neither side faces elimination, a psychological edge and a week of rest for the victor will be vital.

Harrow-Balmoral advanced to the second semi-final after comprehensively beating Pimpinio 13.7 (85) to 5.6 (36) in a qualifying final at the weekend.

The reigning premiers appeared too big and strong around the contest for the Tigers, setting a tone early with relentless pressure.

Brock Summerhayes, who transferred from Taylors Lake to join the Roos mid-season, played his best game in blue and white, bobbing up

as a livewire forward to kick three goals, equalling the tally of swingman Connor Deutscher.

Defenders Clinton Robinson and Dalton Burns were sturdy, helping keep Tiger forwards Nick Groves and Tom O’Dwyer to only three combined goals. And while Pimpinio’s star midfielders Matt Rosier and Jason Westley again stood up when their team needed them, Harrow-Balmoral’s deeper onball brigade, spearheaded by Will Burbury and coach Jai Thompson, won the day.

The Tigers will need to regroup quickly to meet the challenge posed by Laharum, which was at its smothering best in a 12.13 (85) to 3.7 (25) elimination final win over KanivaLeeor United on Sunday.

The Cougars entered the finals on the back of a strong second half of the season, driven by mid-year recruits Tyler Roos and Josh Clayton in the midfield, while co-coach Jacob Eats led the league goal-kicking tally.

But the Demons were prepared from the opening bounce, refusing to allow the Cougars’ stars any latitude.

Laharum led by 19 points at quarter time and 20 at the half before completely smothering their opponents after the long break – allowing only one behind in each of the third and fourth

quarters. Eats was kept goalless for only the second time all season, while the pressure applied by Laharum onballers such as Daniel Easson and Reuben Launder denied Kaniva-Leeor United clean forward entries.

“I’m most proud of our competitiveness at the ball and a stifling defence led by our full back Alec McCallum and the rest of the team. It’s a credit to them,” Laharum coach Shannon Argall said.

“Ryan Thomas was on Jacob Eats and we spoke about some strategies to nullify his influence, which Thommo did a great job at. But it’s also our midfield, half-forward line and wings who create a lot of pressure and influence that forward line delivery.

“We did some homework and watched some footage. Accountability was key in making sure that particularly Roos and Clayton weren’t able to get off the leash.

“That doesn’t mean that we tagged them, but we had accountability with our rotations to make sure at all times that everyone involved knew their responsibilities.”

Argall himself played a key role in the game, outduelling Cougar ruckman Hamish Bennett, while veteran forward Gerard ‘Jedi’ Matthews turned the clock back with four goals.

“It was really pleasing for Jedi –somebody who has played a lot of senior football and won multiple premierships but has really been balancing his body as he’s aged,” Argall said.

“Sometimes he’s been rested weeks, sometimes he’s playing twos, sometimes he’s in the ones.

“On a personal level it was great to see his success. That’s also something you can attribute to the team and the depth in our forward line.”

Argall said the Demons would require another week of strong preparation in order to best the Tigers, who eliminated them from the finals last season before beating them by five points in round three and 34 in round 14.

He said while there was plenty of

narrative intrigue around the match –with three of the teams’ past five meetings decided by single-digit margins – the Demons would not be caught up in it.

“I think speaking about last year’s final would probably be more of a distraction than anything,” he said.

“We have had some great battles over the past two years as both Pimpinio and Laharum have rebounded or rebuilt. We’ve got a lot of respect for them, but we’re just focusing on ourselves this year.

“We haven’t put our best game together against them and we’re really clear on what we need to do to achieve that, so we’ll be focusing on that and not the emotion of some kind of retribution or anything like that.”

Noradjuha-Quantong ends Laharum’s title reign, Kalkee wins in thriller

Entering the Horsham District league

A Grade netball finals, coaches of all five finals sides spoke of the perceived evenness of the 2025 competition.

That perception was borne out at the weekend as Kalkee beat Edenhope-Apsley in a one-goal thriller in Saturday’s qualifying final, while Noradjuha-Quantong ended Laharum’s title reign in a hard-fought elimination final on Sunday.

The Kees are now only one win from a grand final after holding their nerve in a nail-biting final quarter at Dock Lake Reserve, withstanding a fierce Edenhope-Apsley fightback to win 45-44.

Kalkee outplayed the Saints through the first three quarters, building a seven-goal lead at the final change as midcourter Millie McRae worked hard both ways, while Casey Rentsch and Jarrah Martin gave their side multiple avenues to goal.

Rentsch finished the match with 21

goals while Martin netted 24, standing in contrast to the Saints, who relied on Dee Dee Lambert, 35 goals, to provide the bulk of their scoring.

But while Kalkee looked to have built a match-winning lead, the Saints had not abandoned hope.

After a nervy start to the final quarter in which both sides missed shots and turned the ball over multiple times, it was Edenhope-Apsley that scored four of the first five goals.

On several occasions the Saints trimmed the deficit to two goals as defenders Danielle Grindlay and Olivia Spence worked tirelessly to turn the ball over and secure rebounds, but their team-mates were never able to find the killer blow.

With less than a minute remaining in the game, Lambert finally tied the scores, but Kalkee raced forward from the subsequent centre pass and found Martin under the ring. Martin’s initial shot missed, but an obstruction call on

Grindlay gave the Kees another opportunity, and Rentsch stepped in for Martin to calmly convert the second attempt with only six seconds left, giving the Saints no time to respond.

Kalkee coach Paula Wiedermann was thrilled with her side’s first three quarters, as well as its ability to stand up to the final-quarter challenge.

“I think we were really disciplined in those first three quarters. We stuck to our structures, moved the ball quickly, and made sure we were patient when we needed to be,” she said.

“Defensively we applied a lot of pressure which created turnovers, and then we were able to capitalise going forward. It probably dropped away a bit in the last, but those first three quarters showed what we’re capable of. I think what got us over the line was our defensive pressure and a couple of crucial interceptions.”

Kalkee will now play minor premier Rupanyup in Saturday’s second

semi-final – coincidentally at Kalkee Recreation Reserve – with a spot on the grand final up for grabs.

In the weekend’s other game, Noradjuha-Quantong took care of business against Laharum, downing the Demons 46-39 to end their premiership defence.

While Laharum was understrength, with goalie Maddie Iredell out and coach Rebecce McIntyre limited by an ankle injury, Noradjuha-Quantong co-coach Taylor Shelley was thrilled with the win.

“We don’t let anything get taken away from our win. We all turned up and played a really great team game,” she said.

“We had to adapt to some changes they made at half time and at the start of the third quarter, but after a few minutes we were able to do that and finish the game really strongly.”

Captain Brooke Pay was a welcome inclusion for the Bombers after miss-

ing their round 18 clash with Kalkee, helping shore up a sturdy defence, while goalie Taya Quick was on target with a game-high 33 conversions.

Shelley said while the Bombers’ task would not be any easier in Sunday’s must-win first semi-final against Edenhope-Apsley, her side’s performance at the weekend had shown it was capable of matching any team.

“This finals series is probably one of the closest across the top five that it has been in years,” she said.

“We’re all stoked to have another week in the finals. We look forward to playing Edenhope-Apsley. The key this weekend is definitely going to be shutting down their goalies. Between Lavinia and Dee Dee they have one of the strongest duos in the competition, so that will be the biggest task and if we can do that we’ll be ready to match up really well with them.”

BOWERS CHIROPRACTIC CENTRE

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Well you’ve either got it or had it or know someone who has. So what is it? Carpal Tunnel Syndrome as described by the Mayo Clinic is when someone experiences numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand and it generally affects the thumb, index finger, second finger and sometimes the ring finger, but generally not the little finger.

This can be experienced as sensation travelling from the wrist to the forearm, be aggravated by driving or maybe it wakes you at night and feel you have to shake out your hand. So what do we as Chiropractors do? Well interestingly enough we look at your neck and right down your arm. This is because the nerves which start at the base of your neck go down your arm and work the muscles of your arm wrist and hand. We check with specific positioning of the neck if we can recreate your sensation. We also check your neck, shoulder, elbow and wrist for jammed and locked up areas which maybe aggravating the nerves or causing the muscles to be tight. Now not only can these locked up areas be causing the problem; it may also be locked up area in your upper back. This is because your neck muscles go down this far and tight upper back can also be restricting neck movement.

As a chiropractor we take into consideration that there are many factors which need addressing and work with our patients to get the best results. You may not need surgery.

GOAL: Laharum veteran forward Gerard Matthews celebrates one of his four goals on Saturday with Daniel Easson. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Thunder wins double chance

After 18 rounds of home and away matches, Wimmera league senior footy finals are set to kick off this weekend.

Second-placed Nhill will take on a fast-finishing Southern Mallee Thunder in Saturday’s qualifying final at Dimboola, and Stawell will play Dimboola in the elimination final at Nhill on Sunday.

After finishing on top of the ladder, Ararat will have a week off before taking on the winner of the Nhill versus Thunder match.

The Thunder is rolling home strong, winning the past four matches including an 84-point drubbing of Dimboola on Saturday.

It was only weeks ago the Thunder was contesting a finals spot – Saturday’s win not only secured third spot but the double chance in the finals series.

“The boys certainly put in a good full quarter performance and got off to a really good start,” Thunder coach Kieran Delahunty said.

The Thunder fired early, kicking 7.6 in the first quarter, keeping Dimboola scoreless.

“We came out with a bit of intent to play, which was nice – we’ve been building the last couple weeks and starting to get a full squad on the park,” Delahunty said.

“For some of the guys, it has taken all year to get a little bit of that continuity, but it’s all shaping up in the right direction before finals.”

The Thunder was ruthless, holding a 61-point lead at half-time, and extending that to 96 by the last break.

Dimboola had kicked only three goals in the first three quarters, but the Roos showed some improvement in the last term to score another five goals.

Delahunty said he was impressed by the Thunder’s backline, who were ‘starting to work together as a tight unit’.

“I thought we were really good at being able to lock the ball in their front half, but in saying that, I thought our defenders stood up really well,” he said.

“They had a great game and they repelled everything that came their way.”

Brad, in the backline, and onballer Jarrod Stokes, Haydn Drew and Sam

KICKS AWAY:

Sam Hanna kicked two goals for Warrack Eagles at Anzac Park. Hanna has enjoyed a stellar 2025 season.

were instrumental in the win.

Delahunty praised the Stokes brothers, Jarrod and Bradley, and said they were fantastic to play with.

“They’re great team-mates and they’re always willing to do whatever role is needed for the team,” he said.

“They’re both highly skilful, have got quite a bit of pace about them and they make good decisions.”

The Thunder has now set its sights on Nhill, who come off a 56-point loss to Ararat.

Nhill started strongly to take a twogoal lead into the first break, but the home side piled on five goals in the second term to hit back – while keeping Nhill goal-less.

Ben Taylor, Cody Lindsay and Harry Ganley impressed for the Rats, who retained their consistency heading into finals.

For Nhill, Liam Albrecht, Jake McQueen and Jobe Dickinson were named in the best.

Three weeks ago, Thunder scored a 61-point win over Nhill, but Delahunty said while his side would go into the qualifying final with confidence, they knew the Tigers were a good side.

“The way we played against them last time, it was a really good fourquarter effort from us, and I think the boys would certainly have some con-

fidence going into the game,” he said.

“But we know that we’re going to have to work hard to make sure we get the win.”

Despite a strong 46-point win over Warrack Eagles, Stawell dropped down to fourth spot on the ladder.

Other than a third blip where the Eagles outscored them, the Warriors were impressive, with the likes of Josh Fowkes and Jakob Salmi.

Forward Paul Summers booted six goals to take his season tally to 76 and win the league’s top goal-kicking

UNDER PRESSURE: Stawell’s Riley Ika is tackled against Warrack Eagles on Saturday.

award, and Harry Grintell, listed with VFL side Werribee but tied to Stawell, was also named in the best.

Grintell won’t be in the Warriors’ side against Dimboola this weekend, but going on the weekend’s form, Stawell will go into the match confident but wary of the Roos, who beat the Warriors by 42 points in round 16.

The other match of round 18 featured Minyip-Murtoa and Horsham Demons, with the Burras taking an 11-point win – both teams won’t contest senior footy finals this season.

Dimboola in form

Dimboola showed it was primed for finals with an eight-goal win over Southern Mallee Thunder in Wimmera league A Grade netball on Saturday.

The Roos secured third spot – on equal points with second-placed Horsham Demons – who they will play in this Saturday’s qualifying final on their home court at Dimboola.

Dimboola used 11 players in the match, making the most of the rolling substitute rule, allowing players to rest when needed and give the side a boost by bringing on fresh legs.

Centre Paige Glover and wing defence Rianna Kuhne shone in the win, where the Roos led at every change.

For the Thunder, goal-shooter Emma Mill and goal defence Caitlin Douglass were judged best. For the Demons, they were able to bounce back from a loss to Thunder the week prior, cruising to a 48-goal win over Minyip-Murtoa.

Centre Ella Janetzki and goal attack Georgia Batson were outstanding, while defender Romi Miller returned to the side for just her fifth game of the season.

Meanwhile, the Thunder will take on Ararat in the elimination final at Nhill on Sunday.

The Rats scored a 19-goal victory over Nhill on Saturday, giving them a confidence-boost ahead of finals.

Laney McLoughlan, with 26 goals, and midcourter Monique Scott were Ararat’s best players as the Rats led throughout the match.

In the other round 18 match – which has no bearing on finals – Warrack Eagles scored a strong win over Stawell. The Warriors started well to lead by one goal at quarter-time, but the home side was determined in the second quarter and took the lead 26-16 at the main break.

Led by wing attack Emma Koschitzke and Isabella Orszulak, in goal keeper, the Eagles did not look back in the second half, piling on 35 goals while restricting Stawell to 12, handing them a 33-goal victory to finish off their season.

The Saints had a bye at the weekend, and will have another week off as they sit and wait for the outcome of the Demons versus Dimboola match.

White, six goals,

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McDonald signs with Mavs

Edenhope-born netballer Sa-

cha McDonald is set to make her long-awaited debut at the sport’s top level next year after signing with the Super League’s Melbourne Mavericks last week.

The Mavericks announced on Thursday they had elevated McDonald to their list of 10 contracted players for the 2026 season after she captained the team’s inaugural reserves squad this year, winning its best-and-fairest award.

McDonald has taken a winding path to her first full Super Netball contract after previously serving as a training partner for the league’s other Melbourne-based team, the Vixens, without appearing in games.

McDonald has captained the Victorian under-19 team, won a premiership with the Victorian Fury in the second-tier Australian Netball League and played for the London Pulse in the UK-based Netball Super League and the Victorian Netball League’s Casey Demons.

She has also starred for her hometown club Edenhope-Apsley, guiding the Saints to back-to-back Horsham District A Grade premierships as a goalie in 2022 and 2023.

This year she captained the Mavericks to the grand final of the Super Netball Reserves competition, end-

ing in a loss to the West Coast Fever. She was called up to the Mavericks’ senior squad in round three as an injury replacement for Sasha Glasgow but did not take the court during the game.

McDonald said she was thrilled to secure a contract with the Mavericks.

“It feels so surreal to be able to join the Mavs as a fully-contracted member of the squad for 2026,”she said.

“I’ve said before that I thought elite netball might have been behind me not all that long ago – and I was okay with that – but I have thoroughly enjoyed training and learning with this group over the last year. It’s pretty impressive what this club and this playing group have managed to build in just two seasons, so I’m excited to be remaining a member of the Mavs family in 2026 and give it all I’ve got.”

Mavericks general manager Shae Bolton-Brown said McDonald’s signing would give the team a new look next season.

“We are thrilled to have Sacha sign on to remain with us at the Mavs in 2026,” she said.

“Her netball journey to date is the definition of what it means to be Maverick, which is probably why she was such a good fit within our wider squad both on and off the court last year.

“The way she’s kept working at her game, and developed it to the point where she’s an asset both in the shooting circle and in the midcourt is to her absolute credit, and so we can’t wait to see how that versatility unfolds on the SSN court next year.”

McDonald’s signing filled the last

of the Mavericks’ 10 roster spots for 2026. Her team-mates for the upcoming season include Reilley Batcheldor, Kim Brown, Jessie Grenvold, Tara Hinchliffe, Shimona Jok, Molly Jovic, Uneeq Palavi, Amy Parmenter and Jamie-Lee Price.

Weir rises to challenge

Horsham’s Lilly Weir has cemented her status as one of the fittest teenagers in the world.

Weir travelled to the United States this month to take part in the CrossFit Games –an annual global competition affiliated with branded fitness discipline CrossFit.

From a field of 30 finalists in the female 16-17 years category, Weir placed 13th, and was the second-best performer from the Oceania region behind only fellow Australian Sophie Robinson, who was 10th.

Weir was consistent across the games’ various challenges, placing seventh, 16th, 15th, 14th, 17th and 12th across her six events.

Overall winner Miley Wade from the United States and second-placed María Granizo of Switzerland were the competition’s two clear standouts, with neither finishing outside the top three in any of the six events.

The games marked the culmination of years of training for Weir, who took up CrossFit when a centre opened in Horsham about two years ago.

She qualified for the global quarterfinals of the CrossFit Games, which can be completed remotely under the supervision of a CrossFit instructor, in 2023 and last year reached the semi-finals but narrowly missed qualification for the finals in the USA.

After qualifying for the finals this year, she embarked on a community fundraising campaign to secure the money necessary to make the trip to Columbus, Ohio.

She exceeded her $10,000 goal, with locals donating a total of $13,366.

Apprenticeships and Traineeships

An apprenticeship or traineeship with Skillinvest will place you with a local business, where you will receive hands-on practical training, valuable work experience and personalised career advice and support, all while completing a nationally recognised course and getting paid as you learn.

We’ll help you create a rewarding employment and training pathway to make sure you become fully qualified, highly skilled, confident and successful in your chosen profession.

Give us a call to learn more.

2nd-4th Year Electrical Apprenticeship

Horsham – Applications close: ASAP

• Opportunity for ongoing employment upon completion of apprenticeship

• Great team environment

• Providing service to Horsham and surrounding areas

Advance your electrical career with Wades! Opportunity available for a 2nd–4th year apprentice. Gain experience, expand your skills and work with a supportive team. Is this you?

• Logical thinking and diagnostic ability

• Able to work independently or as part of a team

• Have the ability to work at heights

For more information, please

Donald – Applications close: ASAP

• Casual position working full time hours Mon – Fri + overtime opportunities

• PPE supplied & maintained annually

• Support vital road upkeep across the Loddon Mallee area Road Worker required for an immediate start! Join a great team where you gain valuable exposure to civil projects in Regional Victoria.

Requirements:

• Construction Induction White Card

• Medium Rigid (MR) Truck Licence

• Traffic Management Certificates (TC1 & TMI1 at minimum)

For more information contact Tamira Cullinan on 0408 109 324 for a confidential discussion.

Seasonal Harvest Intake 2025/2026

Horsham – Applications close:

• Casual position –Monday to Friday shifts

• Students, Back packers & Grey nomads encouraged

• Training provided, no prior experience necessary Casual workers required for seasonal roles in Horsham & Longerenong. No prior experience required, just a great attitude and willingness to work hard! Is this you?

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• Permanent role based in Regional Victoria

• Attractive annual salary negotiable

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This is a fantastic opportunity to join a customer focused and family-owned business. If you like hands on work, are physically fit and keen for a fresh start, apply today.

Requirements:

• Trade Qualified Light Vehicle Mechanic

• Current Drivers Licence with the ability to drive manual vehicles

• Experience servicing Ford vehicles preferred

For more information contact Tamira Cullinan on 0408 109 324 for a confidential discussion.

Employers, do you need to expand your team?

An apprentice or trainee might be the solution! Skillinvest has you covered!

The Skillinvest difference:

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• Shared hosting arrangements available if you are not able to commit full-time

Ask about our host employer incentives. Call us today.

Road Worker
Qualified Mechanic
THRILLED: Edenhope-born Sacha McDonald has been contracted to the Melbourne Mavericks for the 2026 Super League netball season.

Accolades for racing clubs

Horsham and District Rac-

ing Club is Country Racing Victoria’s Community Club of the Year for 2024-25 after being crowned at a gala dinner in Melbourne at the weekend.

Community Club of the Year is one of the major prizes at CRV’s annual awards night, going to a club with six or fewer race meetings on its calendar deemed by judges to have achieved the best performance during the racing season.

Horsham was one of three Wimmera-based clubs up for the award in a field of five finalists, with Ararat Turf Club and Donald and District Racing Club also nominated.

Horsham and District Racing Club manager Charmayne Parry said the award was a win not only for the club, but the wider Horsham community.

“Our dedicated committee of 15 driven individuals is united by one clear goal; community success,” she said.

“When one race day concludes, our committee celebrates not just the event’s success, but the joy it brings to the community. Each smile shared and memory made fuels our ambition for the next year.”

Great Western Racing Club was also feted at the ceremony, winning the Community Club Event of

the Year for its Australia Day long weekend race meeting.

Chairman Carl Barry paid tribute to the work of the club’s volunteer committee in organising the event.

“We’re passionate racing enthusiasts, we do it for the love of our great sport and to put on a show for everyone who turns up year after year. What an honour for our club and our small regional wine village,” he said.

Stawell’s Linda Meech won the Jockey of the Year award.

The Donald-based Buloke Times was also a winner on the night, picking up the Country Racing Victoria

Media Award. About 650 people attended the awards ceremony at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday.

Country Racing Victoria chairman Chas Armytage said it had been another racing season worth celebrating.

“We have plenty to celebrate across country racing in Victoria, and to see not only the award winners recognised, but everyone involved with the industry, is most pleasing,” he said.

“We look forward to another bumper season ahead in 2025-26.” Other award winners included

Warrnambool Racing Club, which was named Club of the Year as the best-performing club with more than six meetings on its calendar; Wodonga Gold Cup Day for Event of the Year; Aaron Purcell-trained six-year-old gelding Dashing, Horse of the Year; brothers Ben, Will and JD Hayes, who shared the Trainer of the Year award; Logan Bates, Apprentice Jockey of the Year; and Latrobe Valley Racing Club chief executive Frank Bezzina, who received the Tony Shanahan Award for services to country racing.

OUR BISTRO IS BACK!

After more than 12 months of planning in the background, West Side Horsham is excited to announce its Bistro will re-open on Wednesday, September 3 for lunch and dinner service, ve days a week.

“We are so excited to have executive chef Chris Little and his team bringing amazing, high-quality food to Horsham,” general manager Kim Millar said.

“There is nowhere else in town where you can look out the windows whilst dining in a modern environment and see luscious green lawns right in the centre of town!”

Hi, my name is Chris Little and this is my life as a chef.

I started my career at The Vic in Horsham as a first-year apprentice. While I was at trade school in Geelong I was offered a job in one of the best restaurants, so I jumped at the opportunity! 26 years later, I’m back to bring my knowledge of food to Horsham.

In that time I won apprentice of the year three times, regional apprentice of the year, captained a team in cooking competitions across the country where we won gold, then won best restaurant two years in a row, as well as other accomplishments along the way.

Now I run three kitchens in Geelong as an executive chef.

The Bistro and Sports Bar will open for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday:

Lunch Service – 11.30am to 2.30pm Dinner Service – 5.00pm to 8.00pm

The Sports Bar will have its own ‘quick and easy’ meals such as freshly made burgers, pizza & pasta, just to name a few.

Cup trophy in Warracknabeal

Wimmera residents will have a chance to get up-close with the iconic Melbourne Cup trophy as it visits Warracknabeal on Saturday.

The cup’s visit is timed to coincide with the running of the Sheep Hills Cup at Warracknabeal and forms part of a wider Melbourne Cup Tour in the lead-up to the ‘race that stops the nation’ on November 4.

The race day will feature the Sheep Hills Lunch, reimagined as the 150KM Feast Lunch in collaboration with Horsham Agricultural Society and 150KM Feast.

Inspired by the hearty turkey luncheons once served at the original Sheep Hills track, the all-inclusive dining experience showcases the best of Wimmera-Mallee produce. Guests will enjoy four courses paired with local wines, served alongside live music in a warm indoor setting. The lunch, from noon to 4pm, includes race admission and access to the Living Legends experience.

Earlier in the day, the Melbourne Cup will visit the Sheep Hills silo art site at 8am, moving to Warracknabeal Fauna Park for a free community barbecue at 9.30am. From 11am to 12.30pm the trophy will be at Yarriambiack Lodge for a private lunch attended by lodge residents and local kindergarten students. Finally, from 2pm to 4pm the cup will be displayed at Warracknabeal Racecourse during the Sheep Hills Cup, with racing industry identities in attendance.

For more information people can visit www. facebook.com/warracknabealracing.

Tickets for the Sheep Hills Cup can be purchased at country.racing.com/warracknabeal/ calendar/sheep-hills-cup.

RECOGNITION: Horsham and District Racing Club officials collect their Country Racing Victoria Community Club of the Year award at a gala presentation in Melbourne at the weekend.
Kalkee wing defence Alex Lucas cuts EdenhopeApsley goal attack Lavinia Fox from the ball during the Kees’ thrilling one-goal win in the Horsham District Football Netball League A Grade qualifying final at Dock Lake on Saturday. The Kees will take on flag-favourite Rupanyup in the second semi-final this weekend. Full finals coverage, page 52.
Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Dimboola’s road to the finals

Coaches: Andrew Moore, Dean Toet

Roos ready to WFNL FINALS

Round 1: L. 10.10 (70) to Minyip-Murtoa 17.9 (111). Away.

Round 2: L. 6.5 (41) to Ararat 24.14 (158). Home.

Round 3: W. 12.7 (79) d Horsham Saints 8.13 (61). Away.

Round 4: W. 19.8 (122) d Nhill 7.6 (48). Home.

Round 5: W. 21.9 (135) d Horsham 7.4 (46). Away.*

Round 6: Bye.

Round 7: L. 10.10 (70) to Stawell 10.14 (74). Home.

Round 8: W. 8.10 (58) d Warrack Eagles 6.8 (44). Away.

Round 9: L. 8.9 (57) to Southern Mallee Thunder 15.7 (97).

Round 10: L. 6.6 (42) to Minyip-Murtoa 15.10 (100). Home.

Round 11: L. 2.5 (17) to Ararat 21.15 (141). Away.**

Round 12: W. 16.12 (108) d Horsham Saints 7.6 (48). Home.

Round 13: L. 6.7 (43) to Nhill 6.15 (51).

Round 14: W. 21.7 (133) to Horsham 5.7 (37). Home.

Round 15: Bye.

Round 16: W. 16.11 (107) d Stawell 10.5 (65). Away.

Round 17: W. 19.11 (125) d Warrack Eagles 6.7 (43). Home.

Round 18: L. 8.7 (55) to Southern Mallee Thun der 21.12 (138). Away.

*Highest score. ** Lowest score.

Total: Won: 8. Lost: 8. For: 1262. Against: 1262. Points: 32. Percentage: 100.

Leading goal-kickers

Jackson Calder, 57. Benjamin Brett, 22.

Dimboola

It’s been a rollercoaster ride this season at Dimboola but the Roos – who did not confirm their spot in the finals until round 17 – are now looking set to shake things up in Wimmera league senior footy.

After a couple of heavy losses to Minyip-Murtoa and Ararat in the opening rounds, the Roos were back on track with three wins – importantly trouncing Nhill by 74 points in round four.

A four-point loss to Stawell on their home ground in round seven was the start of a mid-season slump for Dimboola, losing four out of five matches from rounds seven to 11.

Injuries – particularly season-ending to Jayden Kuhne and Michael Pohlner – plus player unavailability such as Dylan Landt who went overseas for seven weeks – were a factor in the Roos’ performances.

But co-coaches Andrew Moore and Dean Toet were able to steady the ship towards the latter part of the season.

“The Stawell game for me – that was do or die for us –we were relying on Minyip-Murtoa’s run home, but we had to win that to give us the best possible chance,” Toet said.

“Last time we played them, we let a 31-point lead at half time slip through and they beat us by four points on our home ground – that had been in the back of our mind and we spent weeks focused on that Stawell game, and making sure we got that right.”

While there is plenty of talk around the league about the fly-in players for Dimboola – there is no doubt stars such as former SANFL player Moore, brothers Dylan and Jack Landt, Jackson Calder and Jonathon Ross make a difference to the Roos’ side.

Jack Landt
Will Griffiths

WFNL FINALS

shake things up

But it is captain Ben Miller – a player who has risen through the ranks from his junior days at Dimboola – who has stepped up to the plate this season and become a Wimmera league standout in his own right.

“He’s just gone to another level this year,” Toet said.

“His work rate, what he does in the offseason, the way he goes about it is unbelievable.”

While Dimboola should field a side close to full strength in the finals, the players will need to take each finals game as if it is their last for the season.

Toet said he thought Southern Mallee Thunder was a ‘dark horse’ in finals.

“They are probably very similar to us. We’ve got a lot of players who come in and out from week-to-week and that’s always challenging,” he said.

“I’ve always believed that when you’ve got players coming in who aren’t training with the club during the week, I think that always takes probably eight to 10 weeks for players to sort of gel.

“They Thunder probably started off a bit slow, just for that reason – you’ve just got your locals on the track and then you’ve got half your side coming in on the weekend and you don’t train together.

“You play on Saturday and then one week they’re in and the next week they’re not – that can be challenging to manage as well.”

And after missing finals in 2024, what does Toet think of Dimboola’s chances in the finals this year?

“I think when we play our best footy, we’re as good as anyone,” he said.

Players to watch

Ben Miller

The Roos’ skipper has had a stellar year, named in the best in all but one game this season. The former Dimboola junior will proudly lead his club into the finals this year – and be a key to the Roos’

Jack Landt

After stepping away from his 2024 coaching role –and although he heads to the Northern Territory to play for St Mary’s each off-season – Landt keeps returning to the Roos, where he consistently performs well. He also brings along a handful of his NT football mates to give Dimboola a boost in playing personnel.

Jonathon Ross

Returning to the club this year, Ross brings with him plenty of football experience and fitness after playing in the NT in the off-season. Ross, in his fourth year at the Roos, has moved from being primarily a forward to relishing a position on the wing where he has enjoyed his best season at

Jackson Calder

The Roos’ leading goal-kicker for 2025 – and third in the league – Calder has booted 56 goals so far this year. A teammate of Landt from St Mary’s in the NTFL, where he kicked 65 goals last season, Calder can kick a bag when he has the chance – which he showed when he kicked a Wimmera league season-high of 14 against Horsham Demons in round 14.

Andrew Moore

Stawell Warriors

Stawell’s road to the finals

WFNL FINALS

Coaches: James O’Sullivan, Perry Meka

Round 1: W. 16.12 (108) d Southern Mallee

Thunder 13.9 (87). Away.

Round 2: L. 8.11 (59) to Minyip-Murtoa 12.7 (79). Home.

Round 3: L. 9.4 (58) to Ararat 23.16 (154). Away.

Round 4: W. 12.14 (86) d Horsham Saints 12.10 (82). Home.

Round 5: L. 7.11 (53) to Nhill 12.8 (80). Away.

Round 6: W. 23.16 (154) d Horsham 9.6 (60). Home.*

Round 7: W. 10.14 (74) d Dimboola 10.10 (70). Away. Round 8: Bye.

Round 9: W. 12.7 (79) d Warrack Eagles 10.8 (68). Home.

Round 10: L. 12.12 (84) to Southern Mallee Thunder 14.9 (93). Home.

Round 11: W. 10.10 (70) d Minyip-Murtoa 7.5 (47). Away.

Round 12: L. 10.9 (69) to Ararat 21.8 (134). Home.

Round 13: W. 15.6 (96) d Horsham Saints 8.10 (58). Away.

Round 14: W. 5.11 (41) d Nhill 5.6 (36). Home.**

Round 15: W. 16.17 (113) d Horsham 12.7 (79). Away.

Round 16: L. 10.5 (65) to Dimboola 16.11 (107). Home.

Round 17: Bye.

Round 18: W. 16.14 (110) d Warrack Eagles 10.4 (64). Away.

*Highest score. ** Lowest score.

Total: Won: 10. Lost: 6. For: 1319. Against: 1298. Points: 40. Percentage: 101.62.

Leading goal-kickers Paul Summers, 76. Cody Driscoll, 55.

Warriors rise

Stawell may have had a rollercoaster season but the Warriors know how to win the close matches.

They won three matches by less than a goal this season – two of them against top-five sides Nhill and Dimboola.

Finishing fourth on the ladder, the same position as last season, Stawell will be hoping for an improved performance in this finals series – they were knocked out in last year’s preliminary final after a heavy defeat to Southern Mallee Thunder.

Co-coach James O’Sullivan, a new player to the club last year, took on the coaching role with off-field coach Perry Meka this

“We’re extremely confident that on our day and we play our best footy – we’re right up there with the best in the competition,” O’Sullivan said.

“So if we can get that opportunity and can play our best footy, it will be exciting to see how far we go.”

O’Sullivan said the Warriors had faced a lot of changes in the off-season with new senior coaches and new playing personnel – including a change of 28 to the playing list – but the biggest challenge was for the team to adapt to a new game plan.

“We weren’t sure whether it would take a couple of weeks, couple months, or the whole year for the boys to start progressing towards that game style,” he said.

“To the boys’ credit, I think they picked it up pretty quickly and I think we were probably in a better spot at the halfway mark than potentially what we thought we might have been.

“The game against Dimboola a couple of weeks ago was a bit of a step back and pretty disappointing, but outside of that, I think we’ve put ourselves in a really good position.”

Zach Marrow

Players to watch WFNL FINALS Stawell

to challenge

O’Sullivan said two wins – a come-from-behind victory over Dimboola in round seven and five-point thriller over Nhill in round 14 – were standouts in the Warriors’ season.

“The Wimmera league is a strong league – you can never go into a game thinking, or knowing, that you are going to get the four points, so you have to be on each game you play,” he said.

“It’s incredibly hard to be on and up for a long period – it’s a long season.

“But having said that, consistency is something that we have been working on, and even just consistency throughout each game – it’s an area where we need to improve, quarter-toquarter, but also game-to-game.”

Captain Sam Williams has upped his game this season, with the onballer playing a bit more forward, impressing O’Sullivan.

“Sam’s had a great year, he’s definitely led from the front. He sort of just likes to get his hands dirty when the game’s there to be won,” O’Sullivan said.

“Obviously we’ve had our top couple that have been a bit stronger, but I think it’s probably the bottom six on each game day that we’ve been happy with this year.”

O’Sullivan said after Ararat, the teams placed from second to fifth were relatively even – with many winning one each in the two games against each other this season.

“Early on there was the talk that everyone’s playing for sec ond, but you just never know – I’ve definitely been a part of a few leagues where teams have gone undefeated and not ended up winning it,” he said.

“Finals were a different ballgame, but in saying that Ararat is a quality outfit and it’s going take another team’s very best in order to get to them.”

Sam Williams

A Warrior through and through, the captain has really stepped up to the plate this season and relished his leadership role.

Josh Fowkes

After crossing to Stawell from Navarre last year and impressing, the dependable ruckman has continued to work tirelessly around the ground this season, and will be relied upon if Stawell is to go deep into the

Paul Summers

Summers returned to the Warriors this year after a season at the Swifts where he honed his goal-kicking craft, kicking 124 goals for the year. While this year he’s faced different challenges in the Wimmera league, he leads the league’s goal-kicking with 70 goals.

Zac Marrow

Marrow shows his athleticism and flexibility for the Warriors weekin, week-out, and sets up plenty of play for the club he has been a part of since his junior days.

Jacob Salmi

Southern Mallee Thunder

WFNL FINALS

Southern Mallee Thunder’s road to the finals

Coach: Kieran Delahunty

Round 1: L. 13.9 (87) to Stawell 16.12 (108). Home.

Round 2: W. 13.18 (88) d Warrack Eagles 10.6 (66). Away.

Round 3: Bye.

Round 4: W. 18.9 (117) d Minyip-Murtoa 11.8 (74). Home.

Round 5: L. 5.7 (37) to Ararat 13.11 (89). Away.**

Round 6: L. 8.5 (53) to Horsham Saints 14.6 (90). Home.

Round 7: L. 14.8 (92) to Nhill 17.6 (108). Away.

Round 8: W. 13.12 (90) d Horsham 13.11 (89). Home.

Round 9: W. 15.7 (97) d Dimboola 8.9 (57). Away.

Round 10: W. 14.9 (93) d Stawell 12.12 (84). Away.

Round 11: W. 12.8 (80) d Warrack Eagles 7.8 (50). Home.

Round 12: Bye.

Round 13: L. 11.9 (75) to Minyip-Murtoa 11.11 (77). Away.

Round 14: L. 6.9 (45) d Ararat 10.10 (70). Home.

Round 15: W. 13.10 (88) d Horsham Saints 9.6 (60). Away.

Round 16: W. 18.15 (123) d Nhill 9.8 (62). Home. Round 17: W. 17.16 (118) d Horsham 7.7 (49). Away.

Round 18: W. 21.12 (138) d Dimboola 8.7 (55). Home.* *Highest score. ** Lowest score.

Total: Won: 10. Lost: 6. For: 1421. Against: 1188. Points: 40. Percentage: 119.61.

Leading goal-kickers

Sam White, 34. Kai Sheers, 27. Brayden Ison, 16. Rupert Sangster, 16.

Thunder rolls in

t might have taken most of the season for its side to click, but Southern Mallee Thunder has timed its run perfectly for the Wimmera

The Thunder has finished the season in third place – securing the double chance for finals – after a

It was a statement to the rest of top five that the perennial finalists were coming good at the right end

cruits during the season, and with many interstate players not training with the club during the week, it often takes a bulk of the season before the team

“We got a few injuries early in the season, which gave some really good opportunities to blood some kids through – I think we played 39 players this year – so certainly everyone’s had a chance and have had to play multiple roles throughout the year,” Thunder

“But I think in the last month we have been able to steady the side and steady some

that continuity is starting to pay off.”

Hayden Drew

WFNL FINALS

at right time

After a first-round loss to Stawell, the Thunder scored two wins, but then lost the next three – to Ararat, Horsham Saints and Nhill.

However it was the one-point win over Horsham Demons in round eight that was a standout game in Delahunty’s eyes.

“It probably wasn’t all to plan – we started the year two and four and it was looking unlikely that we were going to get over Horsham halfway through that last quarter,” he said.

“I think that was probably the turning point for our season to get that win and to be able to get 10 wins, and get that double chance was obviously pleasing.

“But a new season of finals begins now, so we’re looking forward to the next challenge.”

For Delahunty, among the players to play consistent footy for the Thunder this season were Sam and Lou White, Coleman Schache, Billy Lloyd, and Angus McSweyn.

“I actually wouldn’t know who would win our best and fairest at the moment –there would be half a dozen that could be up there,” he said.

While the Thunder won’t be at full strength – with the losses of Harry McLeod and Bailey Morrish early in the season, they are hoping to have Jake Garvey, out injured, later in the finals series.

But the Thunder is not getting ahead of itself – with the focus firmly on the first

final – a qualifying final against Nhill, at Dimboola on Saturday.

“Everyone would love to go as deep as possible, I’m sure that’s the case, but the nature of the competition and the Wim mera league this year is that it’s been really strong and really even,” Dela hunty said.

“We set ourselves up to get the top three and hope fully get a spot as possible in I think we forward any week really against Nhill.

“They finished second on the ladder for a reason and they’ve got some really good players –contest.”

After a heartbreaking nine-point loss to Ararat in last year’s grand final, there is no doubt the Thunder would love nothing more than a premiership in their hands.

“Ararat  is deservedly favourites, they haven’t lost a game and they’ve won comfortably in pretty well every game they’ve played, so I think for us it’s just a matter of making sure we get to play them and we’ve got nothing to lose re ally,” he said.

“I think they’re the favourites and the pressure is probably on them a bit.”

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Players to watch

Kieran Delahunty

The coach, a three-time Toohey medallist, has only played half the season due to suffering a broken lower leg against his old side Minyip-Murtoa in round four, so he should be primed for finals.

Billy Lloyd

Captain consistency, Lloyd has cemented himself as a key player for the Thunder in his three seasons at the club. They will be looking for something special from their leader if they are to progress through the finals series. Opposition clubs are well aware of how important Lloyd is for the Thunder so the skipper will need to overcome their attention to step up for his team.

The club veteran continues to shine for the Thunder – named in the best in eight games this season, he has had another impressive year.

One of the Thunder’s leading goal-kickers in season 2025, White has booted 34 goals. His mid-season form was a standout, kicking 15 goals in four games. He is more than capable of kicking a bag of goals - booting six major against the Demons in round 17 and then another six against Dimboola at the weekend. White will need to have his kicking boots on for the Thunder to be a force

Southern Mallee Thunder FNC

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Heath Smith

Nhill’s road to the finals

Clear vision in WFNL FINALS

Coaches: Jake McQueen, Trevor Ryan

Round 1: W. 13.8 (86) d Horsham Saints 6.9 (45). Away.

Round 2: Bye.

Round 3: W. 17.19 (121) d Horsham 9.13 (67) Home.*

Round 4: L. 7.6 (48) to Dimboola 19.8 (122). Away.

Round 5: W. 12.8 (80) d Stawell 7.11 (53). Home.

Round 6: W. 13.13 (91) d Warrack Eagles 10.13 (73). Away.

Round 7: W. 17.6 (108) d Southern Mallee Thunder 14.8 (92). Home.

Round 8: W. 12.11 (83) d Minyip-Murtoa 9.9 (63). Away.

Round 9: L. 8.9 (57) to Ararat 18.7 (115). Home.

Round 10: W. 14.9 (93) d Horsham Saints 9.12 (66). Home.

Round 11: Bye.

Round 12: W. 14.12 (96) d Horsham 11.10 (76) Away.

Round 13: W. 6.15 (51) d Dimboola 6.7 (43). Home.

Round 14: L. 5.6 (36) to Stawell 5.11 (41). Away.**

Round 15: W. 10.12 (72) d Warrack Eagles 9.8 (62). Home.

Round 16: L. 9.8 (62) to Southern Mallee Thunder 18.15 (123). Away.

Round 17: W. 11.13 (79) d Minyip-Murtoa 6.13 (49). Home.

Round 18: L. 7.7 (49) to Ararat 15.15 (105). Away. *Highest score. ** Lowest score.

Total: Won: 11. Lost: 5. For: 1212. Against: 1195. Points: 44. Percentage: 101.42.

Leading goal-kickers

Drew Schneider, 41. Xavier Bone, 23. Daniel Batson, 21. Clay Shadforth, 17.

hill co-coach Jake McQueen is daring to dream for this year’s finals series.

The Tigers finished the Wimmera league season second on the ladder, where they have sat for most of the year.

In his second year of coaching, McQueen – a Nhill boy who after playing in the Victorian Football League returned home to play and coach the Tigers – is clear on his vision for Nhill’s

After just qualifying for finals last year where they knocked over Horsham Demons in a thrilling elimination final, McQueen said the Tigers were eying a grand final berth this

“ I’m not putting any pressure on anyone really, because I’ve never really done that – I just want to take each week as it comes – but it’ll be massive for the town if we do make a grand final,” he said.

“The last grand final was possibly in 2010, so it was a long time ago, and the last one we won was 1981, so it’d mean a lot to get there and obviously to win one – that’s just another

But the reality is Nhill is the second-best team behind Ararat – the reigning premiers are undefeated this year and pose a huge hurdle for any opponent.

After winning the league’s coach of the year last year, McQueen has teamed up with Trevor Ryan as senior co-coaches at Tigerland in 2025.

Nhill’s onfield leaders have excelled – captain and midfielder Lucas Dahlenburg has enjoyed a topclass season; while Darcy Honeyman and Liam Albrecht have led by example in the backline.

Liam Albrecht

WFNL FINALS

run for flag

They’ve also added the pizzazz of Clay Shadforth – an exciting forward who has an uncanny goal sense – while regaining the services of backman Frazer Driscoll, who had been playing for North Adelaide in the South Australian National Football League, and pulled off a more-than-handy midseason pick-up of Adam Zimmermann – a 200-plus centimetre ruckman who has come back to play for his hometown.

Three early wins were a great start for Nhill but it was a 74-point loss to Dimboola in round four that McQueen believes set up their season.

“I think that was a little bit of a reality check, which was good. I think that’s what we needed – a bit of a kick up the bum,” he said.

“Even though we hadn’t lost before then, that got us all mentally in the right frame and helped us for that next period, which I think we only lost one game in eight, so that was probably a pivotal moment in our season.”

While Ararat are rated number one in the league, McQueen said Thunder and Dimboola also posed a threat.

But the Tigers have done their best to set themselves up for success.

“ If you told us that we were going to finish second on the ladder, I’d be absolutely stoked – and I am still absolutely stoked,” McQueen said.

“But, and I’ve said a few times, that four-quarter effort, we haven’t really strung together yet.

“So who knows? We could be very damaging if we can actually do that.

“I’m very, very happy where we are on the ladder and how we’ve performed – but I just would love to get that four-quarter effort.”

Tigers

Players to watch

The Tigers veteran has again had a consistent season, showing his resilience and onfield leadership in Nhill’s backline. Albrecht never shirks a contest and is rarely out-marked, making him a key player for Nhill.

Another loyal Tiger who is ever-reliable in defence, Honeyman is the general of the Nhill backline. He will again be looked to for his leadership during the finals series.

Another homegrown hero who has this season played mostly up the ground from his traditional full-forward position out of the goal square. But he’s relished the change, kicking 35 goals, including seven goals in a half against Horsham Demons early in the season. The Tigers will be looking for him to regain his standout form and shine in the

The playing coach probably hasn’t been as dominant on the field in season 2025 – compared to last season. But the cream rises to the top in the finals so keep an eye out for him to make a big impression in September.

Jake McQueen

Ararat’s road to the finals

Coaches: Tom Mills, Tom Williamson

Rats prepared WFNL FINALS

Round 1: W. 32.12 (204) d Horsham 8.8 (56). Home.*

Round 2: W. 24.14 (158) d Dimboola 6.5 41. Away.

Round 3: W. 23.16 (154) d Stawell 9.4 (58) Home.

Round 4: W. 19.20 (134) d Warrack Eagles 4.7 (31) Away.

Round 5: W. 13.11 (89) d Southern Mallee

Thunder 5.7 (37). Home.

Round 6: W. 12.9 (81) d Minyip-Murtoa 9.7 (61). Away.

Round 7: Bye.

Round 8: W. 18.14 (122) d Horsham Saints 3.4 (22). Home.

Round 9: W. 18.7 (115) d Nhill 8.9 (57). Away.

Round 10: W. 27.13 (175) d Horsham 5.1 (31).

Round 11: W. 21.15 (141) d Dimboola 2.5 (17). Home.

Round 12: W. 21.8 (134) d Stawell 10.9 (69). Away.

Round 13: W. 11.16 (82) d Warrack Eagles 2.1 (13). Home.

Round 14: W. 10.10 (70) d Southern Mallee

Thunder 6.9 (45). Away.**

Round 15: W. 18.15 (123) d Minyip-Murtoa 8.3 (51). Home.

Round 16: Bye.

Round 17: W. 17.18 (120) d Horsham Saints 4.3 (27). Away.

Round 18: W. 15.15 (105) d Nhill 7.7 (49). Home. *Highest score. ** Lowest score.

Total: Won: 16. Lost: 0. For: 2007. Against: 665. Points: 64. Percentage: 301.8.

Leading goal-kickers

Tom Williamson, 58. Jack Ganley, 55. Henry Shea, 21. Tom Mills, 20.

Choices Flooring Ararat

ed-hot favourite to take out its third-straight Wimmera league senior football premiership, Ararat has hardly been pushed in season 2025.

With an average winning scoreline in the vicinity of a staggering 84 points, ironically the team that has got closest to Ararat on the scoreboard is Minyip-Murtoa – which will finish in sixth spot and miss out on playing finals.

It has been one of the most dominating of any Wimmera league sides in recent years.

But co-coaches Tom Mills and Tom Williamson are not letting their side get ahead of itself and take the finals matches too lightly.

“As coaches, we probably go the other way where we try and keep everyone on edge,” Mills said.

“Especially when you look at results from two weeks ago where there was a few upsets – anything can happen, so you have just got to be prepared to play your best.”

While Mills admits the season has panned out ‘pretty great’ for the Rats, he said it hadn’t all be smooth-sailing, with a couple of away games in testing conditions proving a challenge.

“The first time we played Minyip-Murtoa up there, they were with us all game – they were probably the first team that had been close to us all the way until the third quarter, and it was just the way we finished it with a bit of composure to change the way we were playing allowed us to finish strong,” he said.

“It was the same as that game up at Jeparit in the wet too – the Thunder was really close to us at three-quarter-time but we finished really strong.”

Already a very good side, Ararat added a couple of strong recruits into the mix this season, with Naish McRoberts and Brayden Draffin becoming regular fixtures in the senior side.

Ben Taylor

WFNL FINALS Ararat Rats

for anything

Henry Ganley has returned to the club to play with brother Jack, who lit up the Rats’ forward line this season.

“Jack’s probably played more forward this year, whereas he would normally go in the midfield, and he’s had a good year,” Mills said.

“Jim Jennings has been pretty good in his second year down back, obviously Tom’s had another great year, and Ben Taylor around the ball – they both have been fantastic.”

The Rats field a big-bodied, strong, experienced team weekin, week-out and embody a professional unit on the ground.

Even more ominous is that Ararat is set to go into the finals at full strength, with every player fit and available at the right time of the season.

There will be no bigger shock exit in country football if the Rats bow out of the finals before the grand final – so who are their biggest challengers?

“A lot of us have been sort of talking about it – who are we going to play in our first final,” Mills said.

“We haven’t played Dimboola when they’ve had a full side, so that’s something we’re not too sure about.

“Same as Thunder – they’ve had a couple out when we’ve played them.

“But all teams – like Nhill and Stawell as well – they’ve trou bled us in some areas of the ground as well, so I mean they’ve all got potential to play well.”

If the Rats do make it a three-peat, there is no doubt the town will again turn red and white.

“It would be huge. A lot of work goes into it – I mean, it’s great for the players, but also just like the people that do the hard yards that don’t get recognised,” he said.

“For the volunteers, it’s massive for them. People might not realise how much it means to them, but that’s why they do it – to win premierships.”

Players to watch

Tom Williamson

The best player in the Wimmera league, the Rats’ co-coach will no doubt show he is a class above in the finals series. The tall, onballer-forward has booted 53 goals this season and is favourite to win back-to-back Toohey medals.

Jack Ganley

The talented Ganley has kicked 55 goals this season – more than half of which were in a four-week period from rounds 10 to 13, including a 10-goal haul against the Demons. Strong, and experienced, Ganley will be keen to win back-to-back premierships for his home town.

Sonny Kettle

A standout footballer since his junior days, Kettle has proven himself as a key player in the Rats’ midfield. Kettle has missed a couple of games through injury this season, but when he does play, he earns himself a spot in the best more often than not.

Jake Robinson

The reliable Robinson is one of the Rats’ unsung heroes. The onballer sets up plenty of play for Ararat, continuing his good form from last year and in 2023, where he was joint winner of the Toohey Medal.

Tom Williamson

Ararat’s road to the finals

Coach: Sally Noble

Round 1: L. 48 lost to Horsham 56. Home.

Round 2: L. 44 lost to Dimboola 60. Away.

Round 3: W. 59 d Stawell 39. Home.

Round 4: W. 49 d Warrack Eagles 43. Away.

WFNL FINALS

Outstanding year

Round 5: W. 51 d Southern Mallee Thunder 42. Home.

Round 6: W. 61 d Minyip-Murtoa 23. Away.

Round 7: Bye.

Round 8: L. 42 lost to Horsham Saints 87. Home.

Round 9: W. 62 d Nhill 43. Away.

Round 10: L. 41 lost to Horsham 48. Away.

Round 11: W. 43 d Dimboola 40. Home.

Round 12: W. 63 d Stawell 33. Away.

Round 13: W. 48 d Warrack Eagles 27. Home.

Round 14: L. 40 lost to Southern Mallee Thunder 43. Away.**

Round 15: W. 78 d Minyip-Murtoa 36. Home.*

Round 16: Bye.

Round 17: L. 49 to Horsham Saints 80. Away.

Round 18: W. 55 d Nhill 36. Home.

* Highest score ** Lowest score

Total: Won: 10. Lost: 6. For: 833. Against: 736. Points: 40. Percentage: 113.18.

Players to watch

Maggie Astbury

Astbury, a new recruit for Ararat this season, teams well with Laney McLoughlan to provide a strong attack. She is in the league’s top four goalers.

The Biddle sisters It’s hard to separate Faith and Paige Biddle and their contribution to the rise of Ararat this season. Although both are under an injury cloud, if fit, they will have an impact on the Rats’ finals fortunes.

owever the finals play out for Ararat, it has already won – just making the finals alone is a long way from not winning a game

The Rats have finished fifth on the A Grade ladder in 2025, climbing from the bottom last season, thanks to a new coach and an injection of playing

A revelation this season – for both Ararat and the Wimmera league – has been Paige and Faith Biddle. The sisters crossed over from Ararat Eagles and have led the way for the Rats – there hasn’t been many games where at least one of them has

While Faith started the season playing mostly in attack, she later moved to the defence end where she combines superbly with Paige. With injuries to both Biddles a worry for the Rats, if they can return to the court fit and in form, it could well determine how deep into finals Ararat can progress. Another handy recruit is Maggie Astbury, who after crossing over from Mininera league club Tatyoon, has cemented herself as a key goal-attack in the league. Astbury teams well with goal-shooter Laney McLoughlan to provide Ararat with a strong attack, ably helped by the Rats midcourt, led by captain Jess Taylor – the former best-and-fairest winner returned to the club this season after having a baby, and has had an impact

with her drive and feeds into the goal circle. Ararat A Grade coach Sally Noble said it had so far been a great season for the Rats, who had shown ‘huge improvement’.

“Our highlights of the season for us have been strong on-court performances across the whole team. Positive team dynamics, with the girls showing their skills and confidence also being encouraging and united,” she said.

Noble pinpointed matches such as the three-goal win over Dimboola in round 11 and against Horsham Demons – where the Rats lost but came close to the reigning premiers – as standout games.

Ararat has matched up against the Demons well this season – in round 10, losing 41-48 and in round one, losing by eight goals.

“All of the girls have been outstanding this year, their teamwork, sportsmanship and dedication has been the standout,” Noble said.

But with the home-and-away season now done and dusted, the Rats turn their attention to finals.

“Our hopes going into the finals is that we stay focused, utilise our strategies that have got us to finals and just maintain a positive mindset and be consistent and competitive,” Noble said.

But no matter what results are achieved in the finals series, the young Ararat A Grade team has come a long way in season 2025 – and has set itself up for even greater success in coming seasons.

While there has been consistency in terms of the players on the court this season, Noble has also used junior players to great effect.

“Our side is young and versatile, and absolutely the future looks bright for our club,” she said.

ARARAT FOOTBALL NETBALL CLUB

The Ararat Rats Football Netball Club

Paige Biddle

WFNL FINALS

Systems in place

They are the wildcard of the Wimmera league A Grade competition – and Southern Mallee Thunder could well make their way deep into the 2025 finals series.

While the undefeated Horsham Saints are firm favourites for the premiership, the next four teams in the top five have the ability to cause an upset.

Finishing in fourth place, Southern Mallee Thunder showed what they are capable of –two weeks ago defeating reigning premiers Horsham Demons.

That 12-goal win and a three-goal victory over Ararat were confidence-boosters for the Thunder ahead of finals, according to co-coach Steph Thomson.

Thomson, who coaches the A Grade with Jodie Hayes, said 2025 had been a successful season, building on last year’s inaugural season as the Thunder after a merger between the Giants and Jeparit-Rainbow.

“We have put a strong emphasis on building on our first season of Thunder in 2024 in order to be a competitor come finals time. We missed finals by one game last year so we were determined to do better in 2025,” she said.

Thomson said the team had worked hard all season to implement systems on the court, which was paying off.

She said coaching a highly motivated and driven group of A Grade players who make an effort to improve and be the best team they could be was a highlight for both coaches.

As a playing coach and one of the lead-

ing goal-attacks in the league, Thom son thrives on playing quality netball against the top five sides in the com petition – and her leadership rubs off on her players.

“Everyone has been working really hard and playing their role,” Thomson said.

“We have had team meetings and set indi vidual goals. Jodie and I can see each player working hard to achieve them and also keep themselves accountable.”

Emma Mill has come back into the side this year, which has not only provided the Thunder with versatility in the goal circle, but direction, leadership and positivity on court.

Codie Robins has had a stellar season, run ning through the midcourt, inserting herself as a dynamic player, offering speed and strength in the Thunder attack.

Defender Sydney Thorogood has also been a standout for the Thunder this year, making life difficult for the league’s goalers.

It was the Thunder’s defence that was key to giving the Saints a scare in round six where the margin was just 14 goals.

“We have huge belief in the group that we have and how they combine both on and off the court,” Thomson said.

“Our initial goal was to be in the top five at the end of the home-and-away season and the girls have done that.

“We have given ourselves every opportunity to go as far into September as we can.

“We hope to continue playing at the level we have been the last few weeks and enjoy it.”

Southern Mallee Thunder’s road to the finals

Coaches: Steph Thomson, Jodie Hayes

Round 1: W. 48 d Stawell 39. Home.

Round 2: W. 35 d Warrack Eagles 23. Away.**

Round 3: Bye.

Round 4: W. 59 d Minyip-Murtoa 29. Home.

Round 5: L. 42 lost to Ararat. Away.

Round 6: L. 43 lost to Horsham Saints 57. Home.

Round 7: W. 55 d Nhill 33. Away.

Round 8: L. 44 lost to Horsham 60. Home.

Round 9: L. 53 lost to Dimboola 58. Away.

Round 10: W. 65 d Stawell 38. Away.

Round 11: W. 57 d Warrack Eagles 29. Home.

Round 12: Bye.

Round 13: W. 68 d Minyip-Murtoa 22. Away.*

Round 14: W. 43 d Ararat 40. Home.

Round 15: L.47 lost to Horsham Saints 75. Away.

Round 16: W. 68 d Nhill 40. Home.*

Round 17: W. 59 d Horsham 47. Away.

Round 18: L. 38 to Dimboola. Home.

* Highest score ** Lowest score

Total: Won: 10. Lost: 6. For: 824. Against: 687.

Points: 40. Percentage: 119.94.

Players to watch

Steph Thomson

The Thunder’s co-coach and star goal-attack is a standout in the attack end, and consistently provides a reliable option in the goal circle. She has shot 516 in her 16 games this season, sitting third on the A Grade goal-shooting leader board, Sydney Thorogood

A tall timber in defence, Thorogood has relished her time in mostly goal-keeper this season, providing a key asset to the Thunder’s defence – a formidable opposition to any side’s goalers.

Emma Mill

WFNL FINALS

Dimboola’s road to the finals

Coaches: Ant Toet, Olivia Beugelaar

Round 1: W. 59 d Minyip-Murtoa 28. Away.

Round 2: W. 60 d Ararat 44. Home.

Round 3: L. 47 lost to Horsham Saints 70. Away.

Round 4: W. 74 d Nhill 44. Home.

Round 5: L. 58 lost to Horsham 61. Away.

Round 6: Bye.

Round 7: W. 67 d Stawell 50. Home.

Round 8: W. 58 d Warrack Eagles 31. Away.

Round 9: W. 58 d Southern Mallee Thunder 53. Home.

Round 10: W. 90 d Minyip-Murtoa 35. Home.*

Round 11: L. 40 lost to Ararat 43. Away.**

Round 12: L. 48 lost to Horsham Saints. Home.

Round 13: W. 59 d Nhill 29. Away.

Round 14: W. 52 d Horsham 47. Home.

Round 15: Bye.

Round 16: W. 59 d Stawell 36. Away.

Round 17: W. 47 d Warrack Eagles 37. Home.

Round 18: W. 46 d Southern Mallee Thunder. Away.

* Highest score ** Lowest score

Total: Won: 12. Lost: 4. For: 922. Against: 727. Points: 48. Percentage: 126.82.

Players to watch

Bridget Dorrington

Dorrington has been a standout this season. Whether playing at goal-defence or goal-keeper, she has been named in the Roos’ best on more than seven occasions and must be a chance to poll well in the Hatcher Medal count.

Rianna Kuhne

The Roos’ captain leads by example. Mostly playing centre, she can just as ably bring her A-game to play wing-attack or wing-defence, giving Dimboola great flexibility.

Revisiting goals

imboola’s exciting brand of fast, energetic netball could be an Xfactor in this season’s Wimmera league A Grade finals.

The Roos finished the season in third spot – the same as last year – with a win-loss record of 11-4, including a coveted win against Horsham Demons in round 14.

Co-coach Ant Toet said the competitive nature of Wimmera league netball made every game important because ‘you can’t underestimate anyone’.

“We’ve made the last two preliminary finals, so we’re still hoping we can do that and possibly better that if everything goes our way and we stick to our plans and our goals,” she said.

Toet said with most of the players former Dimboola junior netballers, and the addition of two players from former neighbouring club JeparitRainbow, the A Grade side’s success was even

“It’s really rewarding and they’ve got that passion, but we’ve still got a job to do – the weeks ahead are going to be tough. We don’t have that pool of girls that we can pull from like the Horsham teams or the bigger cities and towns can, so we know it’s tough,” she said.

“We know that we’re probably seen as underdogs as well. We’re certainly not taking anything for granted. We’re loving it and hopefully we can take the next step this year.”

Dimboola lost rising star Indy Ward to injury in round 11, and have had player unavailability affect

their season. “In our second half of the season, we knew going into it that we’d have a lot of absences and that we were going to have to use more than just our starting seven,” Toet said.

“We’ve used the bench and the rolling subs, probably more than other clubs.

“And that’s also been a challenge for the girls and they’ve coped with that – to know that they’ve got someone on the bench they can rely on to come on and the intensity doesn’t drop, to know that ‘oh, I might need to come off and just sit back and watch and see what’s happening on the court’ and then go back on –  that plays with your mind a lot and they’ve worked a lot on that.

“We knew we had to develop that over the season, because at the end of the day, it’s the team that plays four quarters.”

Toet said Dimboola had set goals before the season and then revisited those goals throughout the year to reassess.

The motivated Roos have worked on poor starts to games, and also set ‘mini goals’ for themselves to achieve.

Toet said the team had identified each player’s strengths and weaknesses prior to the season and depending on the match, had seen individuals shine throughout the season.

One particular player to shine for the Roos this season is defender Bridget Dorrington, who has been named in the best seven times.

“She’s super fit, she’s super keen to take on any feedback and work with whoever is in the circle with her or even when she goes out,” Toet said.

Dimboola Football Netball Club would like to thank all their sponsors and members for the 2025 season

Intersport

Isaac & Breanna Eldridge

Kip McGrath

Café

Dimboola Community Bendigo

Bank

Dimboola Store

Emmetts Horsham

Horsham Toyota

Promotional Product & Uniform

Shine Hairdressing

SMS Rural Jeparit

Wimmera Mallee News

Betta Home Living Horsham

BMP Plumbing BMP Civil

Dimboola Pharmacy

Dimboola Post Office Drift

Eleven & Us

Horsham Tyre & Battery

Horsham Wool

Mitre 10 Dimboola

MTB Carpentry

Road Runner Offroad

Thai Basil

Westech Ag

Wimmera Bakery

Wimmera Trophies & Gifts

Z & B Dorrington

Chef Teacher Cat Clarke

Elite Contender 24-7 Gym

Dimboola

Helen Baker Hairdressing

Mel Obst Art

Michelle Menzel Hat Bar

Permanent & Personalised

Toughy’s Garage

GoodYear Autocare Horsham

Rianna Kuhne

WFNL FINALS

Full-team effort

While they may have suffered some unexpected defeats this season, Horsham Demons will no doubt bring their A game to the A Grade finals series.

It would be a brave pundit to write off the seasoned finals contenders – the Demons know how to play strong netball at the right time of year.

Coach Georgie Carberry said 2025 had been a year of growth and development.

In her first year of coaching, under the guidance of past coach and star defender Ebonie Salter, Carberry said the focus after last year’s premiership was to reconnect.

The Demons lost a couple of key players from last year’s team, replacing them with new recruit Jorja Jones and Demons’ 15-and-under player Sienna Manserra.

“I feel like we’ve got a  young team. As much as we do have a few players from our premiership side last year, we’re very new – we’ve had to make new connections and grow and find out our systems, and what works best against which team,” she said.

Carberry said elevating Ella Janetzki from the Demons’ B Grade team to the senior side midseason had been a positive.

Janetzki, who plays in the midcourt, added depth and versatility to the A Grade team.

“That’s been a big highlight because it just shows that everyone, no matter where you get selected at the start of the year, there’s always room for developing,” Carberry said.

Other players to stand out for the Demons

this season include goal-shooter Imogen Wor thy, who had developed in her accuracy and held her own against the competition’s best defenders, while Salter has teamed well with Manserra and Keely Pope in defence.

“I think all games we’ve played this year have had their challenges, and had its posi tives,” Carberry said.

“We are a team that just has to keep on working hard for every game and every op portunity. We are not a team that has the expectation that we’re just going to go out there and win it.

“We know that every team in the top five is very strong, so for us – I think just every game has been a bit of a nail-biter. We just have to keep working hard.”

Carberry said aside from the premiership favourites Horsham Saints, she expected tough games against Dimboola and Southern Mallee Thunder – both of whom had beaten the Demons this season – but she also believes Ararat could be a ‘dark horse’.

“I think come finals, it can be anyone’s game. I think it’s about going out there and working really hard, playing as a team and trusting and believing in ourselves,” she said.

“If we can do all those three things, I think we’ll go a long way.”

Carberry said she was looking forward to seeing how the A Grade finals played out.

“It’s really good for the league – we’ve had some years where it’s just been Horsham ver sus Saints, so it’s really exciting that the whole top five are in with a chance,” she said.

GO DEES!!!

Horsham’s road to the finals

Coach: Georgie Carberry

Round 1: W. 56 d Ararat 48. Away.

Round 2: L. 40 lost to Horsham Saints. Home.**

Round 3: W. 82 d Nhill 50. Away.

Round 4: Bye.

Round 5: W. 61 d Dimboola 58. Home.

Round 6: W. 75 d Stawell 46. Away.

Round 7: W. 52 d Warrack Eagles 44. Home.

Round

Round

Keely Pope

Now in her third season of A Grade netball at the Demons, Pope is an unsung hero of the side. Playing mostly at wing-defence, her agility and connection she provides is key to the Demons’ side.

Imogen Worthy

WFNL FINALS Horsham

Horsham Saints’ road to the finals

Coach: Vernetta Taylor

Round 1: W. 101 d Nhill 38. Home.*

Round 2: W. 60 d Horsham 40. Away.

Round 3: W. 70 d Dimboola 47. Home.

Round 4: W. 84 d Stawell 36. Away.

Round 5: W. 66 d Warrack Eagles 27. Home.

Round 6: W. 57 d Southern Mallee Thunder 43. Away.

Round 7: W. 97 d Minyip-Murtoa 25. Home.

Round 8: W. 87 d Ararat 42. Away.

Round 9: Bye.

Round 10: W. 89 d Nhill 42. Away.

Round 11: W. 65 d Horsham 57. Home.

Round 12: W. 81 d Dimboola 48. Away.

Round 13: W. 100 d Stawell 36. Home.

Round 14: W. 53 d Warrack Eagles 25. Away.**

Round 15: W. 75 d Southern Mallee Thunder 47. Home.

Round 16: W. 98 d Minyip-Murtoa 20. Away.

Round 17: W. 80 d Ararat 49. Home.

Round 18: Bye.

* Highest score ** Lowest score

Total: Won: 16. Lost: 0. For: 1263. Against: 622. Points: 64. Percentage: 203.05.

Players to watch

Jorja Clode

The Saints’ focal point in attack, Clode plays well beyond her 17 years. She is the league’s highestscoring goaler  – 684 from 15 games – shooting more than 50 goals on six occasions this season.

The Saints skipper is ever consistent – a cool head to lead what has often been a young team during the season. Last year’s Hatcher medallist will again be vital to the Saints’ finals campaign.

Composure key

After an undefeated home-and-away season, Horsham Saints have earned the title of raging-hot premiership favourites in Wimmera league A Grade netball.

The Saints have not only won 16 games straight, they have the highest goal-scoring total of 1263, and the lowest total of goals scored against, 622. Saints coach Vernetta Taylor is obviously pleased with how the season has so far unfolded, and is proud of her players – many of whom she has coached in their junior days and have progressed through the club’s exemplary netball department.

“I’m most proud of the fact we’ve actually kept improving. We’re not staying at that same standard – we’re working really hard to continually improve every week because we know that every other team is doing that ,” Taylor said.

While the Saints’ season seems nice and shiny on the surface, they have faced their challenges.

When they lost defenders Holly Phillips, moved overseas, and Erin Martin, pregnant, early in the season, they looked to 17-and-under players Maddison Bethune and Lena Marshman to fill the void.

Shannon Cross also moved from her usual wingattack position to play wing-defence.

The Saints’ lineup has also been affected by player injuries and the availability of star goal-shooter Jorja Clode, who has had to manage her Saints duties around her commitment to Bendigo Strikers’ 23-and-under side in the Victorian Netball League. Taylor, in her return to A Grade coach this season, has also made a point of ensuring the side had flexibility to cater for any unplanned

availability. “I think that’s been a real positive that we are not reliant on any one or two players in the team – it’s a very balanced team that is led very well by Ash Grace, who is a wonderful captain and on-court leader,” Taylor said.

The match that cemented the Saints’ superior season was on Anzac Day, when they scored a 20-goal win over arch-rivals Horsham Demons – the side that had beaten them in last year’s grand final.

“ It’s always a big occasion – it feels like a final and it’s round two, and we always say across the board as a club, you know where you’re at after Anzac Day because you’re playing against a really quality club in the netball,” Taylor said.

“So to go out and win that game by 20 goals was like ‘yeah we’ve got something here – this can be something special’.”

Taylor said despite the 100 per cent success rate during the home-and-away season, the finals series would require the Saints to hold their nerve and stay focused.

“ I do feel a little uneasy going in undefeated – I won’t lie – I’ve seen a lot of teams get to grand final day and lose after being undefeated, it’s happened to Saints,” she said.

“So I know that it’s not an easy journey ahead. We all know that we really have to stay focused and committed to each other and what our goals are and what we set at the start of the season.

“If they continue to play like they’ve been playing, I expect that we should make it to grand final day, but finals are a tricky thing, and there’s no guarantees. We have to work really hard for it, and we have to make sure we maintain our composure.”

we include we achieve we care

Ashlee Grace
Maddison Bethune

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