The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Vol. No. Vol. 2818No. 2527

FREE PUBLICATION

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Festive Celebrations

Wednesday, January 17, 13, 2025 2016 Wednesday, December

END OF SCHOOL Pages 41-50

Inside

Pages 55-64

Plan reset for bypass A

BY LAUREN HENRY

new community reference group will guide a Horsham Rural City Council project plan to finalise a bypass route around the city.

Councillors passed a motion at Monday night’s meeting to confirm its intent to identify a preferred alignment for a full bypass of Horsham, incorporating the Western, Wimmera and Henty highways.

The council will also allocate $80,000 in the 2026-27 budget for the bypass planning project.

Mayor Brian Klowss and Crs Dean O’Loughlin and Angela Munn will be councillor representatives on the group, which will also include eight area-based representatives, from the four north, south, east and west areas around Horsham – one being a rural landowner and the other being an urban resident; as well as stakeholder representatives from Barengi Gadjin Land Council; retail business; agricultural business; and the transport industry.

Council officers – a project lead, project manager and engagement facilitator – will also sit on the group.

The project plan centres on engaging the community for input – a task all councillors admitted would be a challenge.

Cr Cameron McDonald said talk of a Horsham bypass dated back more than 80 years.

“The difference will be this time we really are going to get the community on board,” he said.

“We’re not going dictate what happens. It’s more about getting our community involved and consulting very widely – we’re going to take the community with us on this journey.”

Cr McDonald said the council could not adopt

an airport master plan or a housing strategy until a bypass route was put in place.

“The other big issue is the government promising us we’re going to get mining, they promise we’re going to get renewables and all sorts of other projects coming in, so with all that extra traffic, we’re saying it’s an opportunity now – quite quickly in fact – to say ‘we’re going to need an absolute bucket load of money to deal with all that because the extra traffic around town is going to be horrendous’.

“In fact, I don’t think it’s logically do-able.

“Here’s the opportunity for us to say ‘here’s the plan, and we’ll accept any amount of money you’d like to give us’.”

Mayor Brian Klowss used the opening of the Westgate Tunnel at the weekend as an example of needing to take heavy vehicles from local roads.

Cr Klowss said according to government figures, there were 18,000 vehicle movements through Horsham each day, which included 3240 heavy vehicles. “ Williamstown Road has around 2400 truck movements a day – nothing like what we have coming through the heart of our city,” he said.

“Is this another country-city divide – $10-billion was spent to build that tunnel. “ With our potential growth in mining renewables and the agricultural sector, we need a plan and to see where the road will be built and where we get the heavy traffic out of Horsham, and have a document so that we can lobby state and federal governments to fund it.”

Continued page 3

AMAZING: Rainbow’s Llew Schilling silo will officially open next week, showcasing the months’ work of contractors and artists who were engaged to complete the unique project.

Its exterior features Geoffrey Carran’s depiction of a cactus from Mr Schilling’s garden alongside a Mallee Emu-wren, and an all-abilities access tower that overlooks the area’s landscape. The silo’s interior features artwork on illuminated Digiglass panels. Mr Schilling, pictured, said the finished silo was ‘brilliant’. Story, page 7. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER.

IN THIS ISSUE • Terrorist attack felt far and wide • Chalambar proposal • Rainfall chart • Jelly off to worlds 21,505 COPIES DISTRIBUTED EACH WEEK (average)

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Terrorist attack felt far and wide I

BY LAUREN HENRY

t may have been more than 1000 kilometres away, but Sunday’s terrorist attack at Sydney’s Bondi has been acutely felt across the Wimmera and Grampians regions.

Fifteen victims died and one of the two shooters was killed in the attack, targeting people at the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.

The shooting also resulted in 42 people being injured and taken to hospital, where 25 still remain – six in a critical condition.

Thousands of people were caught up in the attack – fleeing the scene, hiding from the father-and-son gunmen and assisting those injured.

Police arrested the son, Naveed Akram, who remains in a coma in hospital, while experts dismantled explosive devices at the scene.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the ‘anti-Semitic attack’, with the political fallout from the attack continuing as questions are asked about whether enough was done to prevent the attack.

On Monday evening, Horsham Rural City Council held a minute’s silence at its meeting to pay tribute to the victims of the terror attack.

Mayor Brian Klowss said the council wanted to ‘acknowledge the lives affected and the pain being carried by so many’.

“This is a time for all Australians to be united in compassion, strength, and support for those who are hurting,” he said.

“We stand together clearly without hesitation, that there is no place for hatred and violence in our community.

Our diversity is our strength.

“In moments like this, unity must always prevail over division.”

Cr Dean O’Loughlin said there was no place for antisemitism, violence or racism in society.

“I think that we all should call it out, and I need to just applaud all the first-responders, and the community members that responded on that tragic day,” he said.

The Ararat community and community leaders gathered at Holy Trinity Anglican Church on Monday afternoon to mourn and remember those who lost their lives.

The Reverend Father Martin Nadarajan put out an open invite on Monday morning for people to join him for solidarity, compassion, and prayer during a short memorial service.

“Following the horrific mass shoot-

ing at Bondi, targeting Jewish community members celebrating the first night of Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, I join with other faith leaders in mourning those killed and injured,” he said.

“I strongly condemn this antisemitic attack, and all forms of antisemitism, which are evil, sinful, an affront to our neighbours, and an assault on human dignity. Such violence must be condemned in every instance.

“The news reports are shocking, distressing, and heartbreaking.

“Please keep the families, friends, and Jewish community who have suffered loss in your thoughts.”

Councils, government departments and emergency services across the region flew flags at half-mast on Monday as a sign of respect.

Ararat Mayor Bob Sanders said the council was ‘shocked and saddened’ by the Bondi attack.

“On behalf of councillors and staff, I wish the Jewish community and everyone affected peace and healing during this difficult time,” he said.

Member for Wannon Dan Tehan said he was ‘deeply saddened by the horrific and deadly attack at Bondi Beach’.

“I grieve for those who died, pray for the recovery of those who have been

injured, and stand squarely alongside our Jewish community,” he said.

“The Jewish Australian community are a cherished and treasured part of our nation. That is why the rise of antisemitism is abhorrent and so deeply troubling and must be stopped.”

Mr Tehan urged all Australians to reach out to the Jewish community and offer solidarity and support in this dark time.

“I thank all the first responders and citizens who acted so bravely to halt the terror and help the deceased and injured,” he said.

“I condemn this attack in the strongest terms and call for justice to be swiftly delivered.”

Member for Mallee Anne Webster condemned the horrific attack, emphasising the Labor Government must be held accountable for its inaction on antisemitism.

Dr Webster said her thoughts and prayers were with the families of those who had died or were seriously injured from the ‘unspeakable, unthinkable tragedy on Australian soil’.

“Australia’s international reputation as a welcoming, easy-going society has been rocked to its core,” she said.

“As leaders and parliamentarians, we must do better.

“As the Coalition Opposition, we hold the Albanese Labor government accountable given they had ample warning this atrocity could occur.

“The ASIO chief Mike Burgess warned in February that the biggest threat to national security was lone actors acting upon antisemitism.

“The Albanese government’s new antisemitism envoy, Jillian Segal, presented her report in July to government, which has received no formal government response.

“Those are the key facts and that should be the focus here, not a deflection to a debate on gun control.

“While there is some merit in the argument that non-citizens – that is those on visas – should not have a firearms licence, what I don’t want to see is, yet again, Australian farmers being targeted for problems that Labor governments refuse to tackle head-on at the source.”

Anyone needing support can call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14, or text 0477 13 11 14. People can also visit lifeline.org.au for an online chat service or lifeline.org.au/toolkit for resources to help.

• Editorial, page 11.

Horsham bypass in planning

FESTIVE: Sally Mewett and Mandy Kirsopp decorate a tree in preparation for the annual Uniting church Christmas lunch.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Community Christmas lunch invite Horsham Uniting Church will host its annual community Christmas lunch for people who may be alone or feel isolated on Christmas Day. The lunch, provided with support of the church and wider community, is an opportunity for people to be with others in a safe and friendly environment to share food and

laughter. Individuals who are home alone on Christmas Day; couples with their children living elsewhere or spending Christmas with other family members; single parents and children without family support; and any person or couple seeking company and fellowship are invited to attend.

Transport within Horsham is available. People are asked to register attendance and dietary needs by calling the Uniting Church office on 5382 4380 or Mandy Kirsopp on 0408 826 727. A donation of $5 per person is appreciated.

Guests can arrive from 11.30am.

From page 1 Cr Rebecca Sluggett acknowledged that past councils and community reference groups had tackled the bypass issue.

“It’s important that once again we involve the community in the decisionmaking process as it is going to have a very large impact on the municipality, especially if we’re successful in years to come to get it endorsed by other levels of government,” she said.

“By working with the community to determine a preferred route, we’ll only make advocacy opportunities so much stronger, and if we can go to the state and federal governments with a line that our community helped put on a map. It’s now more important than ever, given all the changes we face and the increased heavy traffic with heavy transport.”

Cr Angela Munn said past discussions about a bypass had been divisive in the community, and she expected it would again cause anxiety and heartbreak for some residents.

“Everyone agrees the bypass is needed, but nobody wants it near their home or their land, and that’s completely understandable,” she said.

“Despite how hard this is, I believe it is a decision that must be made,

because until a route can be identified, state and federal governments simply won’t engage with us on funding.

“If this had been finalised 10 or 15 years ago, it likely would’ve been easier for the decision. There was less development and fewer homes. If we walk away from it now because it’s too hard, it would simply shift the same problem into the future when there will be more housing and development, and even greater impact.”

Cr Munn said she believed it was inevitable that Horsham would need a bypass.

“Regardless of how difficult or unpopular it may be, now is the best time to deal with it,” she said.

“What matters most is how we do this. Starting with a blank canvas and genuinely involving the community is essential. This will be an incredibly difficult process, but it is also a necessary one, and it’s our responsibility to bring the community along.”

Further details on the project will be announced early in 2026, opening expressions of interest for the community reference group and the process for making submissions to the project.

Council will also establish a website to keep the community informed on progress.

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

World-class ballet under the stars

H

orsham will host The Australian Ballet’s Ballet Under the Stars at Horsham City Oval in February.

The free, outdoor performance is set to inject a much-needed boost into the region’s tourism industry, with local businesses set to benefit.

It will be the third major event at Horsham City Oval in February, with the second RegFest country music festival on February 7 and motorcycle show Freestyle Kings Live on February 14.

Ballet Under the Stars will transform city oval into an open-air theatre on Saturday, February 21, inviting audiences to experience world-class ballet beneath the summer sky.

The performance will showcase the elegance of The Sleeping Beauty Act III Polonaise and Grand Pas, the ethereal beauty of La Bayadère’s Kingdom of the Shades, and the technical brilliance of the heritage showpiece Grand Pas Classique.

Guests can purchase food and drinks from onsite food trucks or bring their own picnics.

The new stage at city oval allows Horsham to host not only major art companies making use of the outdoor stage, the large screen, and improvements to street access and parking.

Local secondary school students will also be invited to take part in a curtain-raiser performance before the main event, one of several community activities being arranged by the company’s education and outreach team for ballet enthusiasts young and old.

The team will host dancing stories for ages 3-5, adult ballet for ages 18 years and older, and seniors’ ballet for those aged 60 years and older, during their visit.

The main performance will begin with The Sleeping Beauty Act III Polonaise and Grand Pas, La Bayadère’s Kingdom of the Shades, and Grand Pas Classique, highlighting the company’s remarkable athleticism.

Flames of Paris ignites the stage with fiery energy, while the longawaited return of Grande Tarantella promises to dazzle ballet lovers with its virtuosity and excitement.

Contemporary dance takes centre stage with the Australian premiere of

Marco Goecke’s striking duet Morpheus’ Dream, with music by Lady Gaga and Keith Jarrett.

The program also features a worldpremiere by 2023 Telstra Emerging Choreographer award-winner Yuiko Masukawa, highlighting The Australian Ballet’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of choreographers.

There will also be an opportunity to watch The Australian Ballet dancers take part in a class on stage as a warmup for the evening’s performance.

Mayor Brian Klowss said Ballet Under the Stars was an amazing opportunity for everyone in the region to see outstanding performers beneath the Wimmera’s summer sky.

“We are delighted to host our national ballet company, and to invite visitors from across the wider region to join us for this unique event, an unforgettable magical evening under the stars,” he said.

The Australian Ballet’s artis­tic direc­ tor David Hallberg said he was excited to bring the event to Horsham, the furthest the program has ever travelled in Victoria.

“There’s something uniquely special about seeing the company perform outdoors,” he said.

“Audiences will see the breadth of the company, the talent, strength and world-class athleticism of our dancers in works that are thrilling, beautiful and fun.

“What excites me most is that the beauty of these works belong in regional Victoria just as much as on our biggest stages.

“This program honours ballet’s traditions while looking to the future, with new works being performed in Australia for the first time.”

First launched in 1966, Ballet Under the Stars was historically confined to capital cities, before Giselle was performed in Gippsland in 2019.

The event is backed by the State Government’s Regional Events Fund, which supports events across the region such as the GPT 100 Miler, the Grampians Grape Escape and Wimmera Steampunk Festival.

Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos said a free, world-class performance was a

pretty special way to showcase western Victoria.

“It’s the kind of event that turns a day trip into a weekend stay,” he said.

“We’re proud to support experiences like this, which drive local cafes, hotels and small businesses, supporting local jobs.”

Visit Victoria chief executive Brendan McClements said the event would attract visitors, as well as provide a major event for Wimmera residents.

“Events like this help make the decision to visit western Victoria feel easy, converting demand by giving visitors an experience to plan around then encouraging them to explore the region,” he said.

Gates open at 4.45pm, pre-show entertainment will begin at 5.30pm, and the main performance will be from 7.45pm.

Attendance is free, but bookings are still required to secure a spot.

For more details, people can visit australianballet.com.au/performances/ ballet-under-the-stars.

‘Feels Like’ a new tourism campaign Its sense of place has given rise to Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism’s new campaign for the regions.

‘Feels Like’ is the refreshed, overarching brand for the next three to four years.

Launching the campaign last week, Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism chief executive Marc Sleeman said the brand stemmed from speaking with people in the regions.

“When you talk to people across the Wimmera Mallee it just invokes this sense of place and it feels like just an amazing place to be,” he said.

“It just naturally, organically grew from that perspective, and that’s going to now lead the brand campaign and awareness for our region for the next three to four years.”

Mr Sleeman said the previous regional brand had been in place since 2017.

“Since then, the two regions, the Wimmera-Mallee and Grampians, have united under one regional tourism or visit economy partnership,” he said.

“We thought it was time for us to also create a new image for both the Wimmera-Mallee consumer brand

and also one for the Grampians, but then have an overarching brand for the whole region.”

Mr Sleeman said the key markets of Melbourne and Adelaide had low awareness of the Grampians and Wimmera-Mallee.

“This will be the major campaign push for 2026 in both of those markets,” he said.

“We’ve got State Government funding support through some recovery funding that will be rolled out over the next six, eight and 12 months.”

A new merchandising strategy was outlined at Friday’s board meeting.

“There was some really significant appetite from our industry partners wanting to help raise that awareness through the branding campaign,” Mr Sleeman said.

“But merchandise is also a great way of being able to help promote the region, too.”

Mr Sleeman said business owners were concerned about predicted low tourism numbers during summer, but they could expect an increase in the following months.

“When we launch things like this activity and our campaign activity

LAUNCH: Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism launched a new campaign at Pomonal last week. Spreading the message are, front, Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism chief executive Marc Sleeman, with back, from left, Georgia Bennett, Serena Eldridge, Vanessa Briody, Tessa Llewellyn, Laura Daniel, tourism chair David Jochinke and Ian Gumela.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER ahead, it just instils a bit more confidence in businesses in the region,” he said.

“They know the local government and Grampians and Wimmera-Mallee have got a plan for the future, and when they know that it just gives them a sense of positivity around what the future looks like,” he said.

“It showed us how resilient our

businesses have been, and their desire to continue to support our marketing activities just shows that they see the confidence moving forward and the destination is well positioned to continue to recover and grow.”

Mr Sleeman said business owners could be confident that a strong plan was in place to position the region as a must-do destination.

“The forward occupancy levels to about June is up on last year, so we’ve just got to hold on a bit tighter and get through the next month or two,” he said.

“Hopefully summer turns around and we are looking forward to a really exciting 2026.”

– Bronwyn Hastings

Whatever your Christmas tradition, I hope you enjoy and can spend time with your loved ones. It is a wonderful time of year to celebrate all that is good, reflect on the year that has been and find hope for the year to come.

We wish you and yours precious time together.

Warmest regards,

Anne and Philip Webster Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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HRCC NEWS Council welcomes ESVF levy freeze for farmers

HAVE YOUR SAY C85hors - HERITAGE AMENDMENT Planning Scheme Amendment C85hors (Heritage Amendment) proposes to apply the Heritage Overlay to:

Grants open to fund local Tiny Town projects Small communities across Horsham Rural City can now apply for grants of up to $50,000 to fund new local projects or upgrades to existing facilities.

Horsham Rural City Council welcomes the Victorian Government’s decision to freeze the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund (ESVF) rate for farmers for two years.

The decision, announced as part of the Government’s Budget update, follows extensive lobbying by Council’s across the state, including Horsham Rural City Council.

Campaigns by the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), Rural Councils Victoria and Regional Cities Victoria against the imposition of a primary producers’ levy sent a strong message to state government.

It is not a Council charge. However, councils are required by law to collect it on behalf of the State Government as part of their annual rates notices.

The MAV, the peak body for Victoria’s local councils, had called for a review of the ESVF fixed charge calculation for property classifications – specifically for commercial and primary production properties – to ease the cost burden on rural and regional businesses and primary producers.

The ESVF variable rate for primary production properties will remain at 28.7 cents per $1000 of Capital Improved Value (CIV), for at least the next two financial years.

Additionally, eligible CFA and SES volunteers may access a rebate for their primary place of residence or primary production land, with the rebate cap lifted from $5 million to $10 million of CIV. The fixed rate for non-primary place of residence properties will also remain at the current rate, until July 2027.

“This is much needed relief for our primary producers,” said Mayor Cr Brian Klowss.

“Our farmers and growers have had to deal with drought conditions and increasing cost pressures in a tough economic climate, and the ESVF places unfair hardship on regional communities like ours.

“While we strongly support the vital role of emergency services volunteers, the ESVF is a tax to fund services that should be supported from consolidated revenue, and its collection belongs with the State Revenue Office, not local councils.”

Round 3 of the Victorian Government’s Tiny Towns Fund opened on November 5 to communities of up to 5,000.

Around 350 projects from community groups, local organisations and local government authorities have already received support in the first two rounds of the fund.

Applications for Round 3 close on Sunday 4 February 2026.

NOTICE OF PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION The land affected by the application is located at:

• 31 individual properties, • 10 precincts • 1 serial listing containing 6 silos This is in response to the findings and recommendations within the Horsham Heritage Study (2014) and Review of the Horsham Heritage Study 2025.

These properties have been identified to be included in the Heritage Overlay as either an individually significant place, a contributory or non-contributory place as part of a heritage precinct.

For more information and to make a submission, please visit Engage Horsham with the QR code.

Engagement closes Monday 22 December.

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

13 Arthur Drive, Horsham VIC 3400 The application is for a permit to: Construction of two single storey dwellings, subdivision of land into two (2) lots and variation of a restrictive covenant A permit is required under the following clauses of the planning scheme: Clause 52.02 - Variation of a restriction under Section 23 of the Subdivision Act 1988.

Clause 43.02-3 - A permit is required to subdivide land Clause 32.08-7 - Construction of two or more dwellings on a lot Clause 32.08-3 - A permit is required to subdivide land

TENDERS AND RFQ Q09/2026 THREE LAKES PRECINCT FEASIBILITY STUDY AND MASTER PLAN Closes Friday 16 January

All tender, EOI and RFQ details at hrcc.vic.gov.au

Roaming Advent Calendar businesses this week

The applicant for the permit is: Asif Ahmed C/- Hatch Planning Pty Ltd

Council’s Roaming Advent Calendar is back in 2025 with customers rewarded daily for shopping local this Christmas.

The application reference number is: PA2500933

The Advent Calendar will stop at the following businesses in the coming week:

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application by: • Visiting the planning section at hrcc.vic.gov.au • Using a smart device to access via QR code • In person at the office of Horsham Rural City Council 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham Vic 3400 Telephone: (03) 5382 9777. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge.

Contact Officer: Kirsten Miller.

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions.

• Wednesday 17 December: Macchia Jewellery • Thursday 18 December: Lilli Vogue • Friday 19 December: Maria Da Ros & Earles • Saturday 20 December: Horsham Sports & Community Club • Sunday 21 December: Spuddy Good • Monday 22 December: Luxe Clothing • Tuesday 23 December: The Exchange Hotel • Wednesday 24 December: The Capital Shoppers go into a daily draw to win a $200 voucher.

An objection must:

Council services over Christmas and New Year

• Be made to the Responsible Authority in writing • Include the reasons for the objection • State how the objector would be affected.

There will be no waste collections on Christmas Day. Instead, bins will be emptied on Christmas Eve, Wednesday 24 December.

HRCC will not decide on the application before: Monday 5 January 2026 If you object HRCC will inform you of its decision.

Please have your bins out by 6am on Wednesday morning.

All other collection days are unchanged during the holiday period.

For all other services, please scan the QR code or visit the HRCC website.

Next Council Meeting: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 - 5.30pm Horsham Rural City Council: 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham | Postal address: PO Box 511 Horsham VIC 3402 | Phone: (03) 5382 9777 | Email: council@hrcc.vic.gov.au | Web: www.hrcc.vic.gov.au HRCC News

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December 17, 2025 edition

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

‘Best-possible scenario’ for Chalambar

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

F

rom dire financial straits to a potential ‘destination club’, the outlook for Ararat’s Chalambar Golf and Bowls Club has shifted dramatically in the past 16 months.

On Monday, club members will vote on whether to accept a takeover proposal by former Ararat resident Adam Haddow and his husband Michael Combs, who earlier this month outlined their vision for the club’s future.

The proposal would see the club, which has been operating under administration after declaring financial insolvency in August 2024, receive a large financial injection in order to redevelop its facilities, as well as paying creditors.

Mr Haddow and Mr Combs would purchase a parcel of the land and lease it back to the club, with a long-

term plan of building a boutique hotel alongside the clubrooms.

Mr Haddow, the president of the Australian Institute of Architects and a partner at architecture consultancy SJB, said he was motivated to keep the club as a vital part of the Ararat community.

“I grew up in Ararat and my family still lives there. When you grow up in a small country town, there are a few things that are really important, and a golf club is one of them,” he said.

“It does more than let people play golf, it provides lots of opportunities for people to get together and share stories.

“When dad, who has been a member of the club for a long time, said it was going to go into administration, I thought, ‘hold on a minute, we’ve got to do something to try to help’.

“Because if you lose it and it gets sold off, it’s going to be hard to ever get that back again.”

Mr Haddow outlined a long-term vision for the club at this month’s meeting with members.

“We want to upgrade the clubhouse and amplify the food and beverage offerings so that it can start to generate some cash to help support the club and the course itself,” he said.

“Ambition-wise, it’d be nice to think that over the next eight years we could get it to a point where it could hold a major under-21 Australian championship competition.

“It would really be an opportunity for people to come to Ararat and enjoy the course, because it’s a beautiful course.

“Long-term, I’d love to build a boutique 40-room hotel there and really amplify the offering, but we’ve got to walk before we can run.

“The first job to tackle is just to upgrade the existing facilities and create a better offering, and get the buy-in and agency from all the locals.”

Administrator Rebecca Hindson from Taylor Insolvency said club members received the proposal positively, giving Mr Haddow and Mr Combs a standing ovation at the meeting.

She said the plan represented the best-possible scenario for the club.

“From what we heard from the members and the local community, it was really important to them that it stay as a golf club and a bowls club,” she said.

“That was at the front and centre of our minds, along with our duty back to the creditors.

“We said no to a lot of potential parties, because they wanted to just come in and liquidate the club and sell off the land. In our position, we do have the ability to do that because it’s to the benefit of the creditors – they get 100 cents on the dollar – but we were able to get 100 cents on the dollar for them without doing that.”

While club members and creditors must still sign off on the proposal, Ms Hindson anticipated it would be accepted by both.

She said if the proposal was successful, Mr Haddow and Mr Combs would likely take control of the club in February or March, pending liquor licensing arrangements.

“This is what I love about administration – this is how it is done properly,” she said.

“This is what you should be doing.

You’ve got to take your time and listen.

“If you don’t get the community’s insight and get them on board, you’ve already lost the race.

“It’s not about taking an asset away, it’s about asking ‘can we deliver more to the community?’

“That is the case in this scenario.

This will bring people to Ararat. It will be a destination club, 100 per cent.”

Vision comes to reality Llew Schilling had many visions for Rainbow’s wheat silo since purchasing it in the 1970s, but did not envision seeing any coming to fruition in his lifetime.

The Rainbow Silo Tourism Development will open to the public on Tuesday, after being transformed – complete with construction of a new tower and viewing platform, as well as exterior and internal artwork.

A 27-metre-high tower features a stairway and elevator that leads to a viewing platform adjacent to the top of the silo, giving visitors panoramic views of the Mallee Plains.

The platform also provides access to a balcony within the silo itself, which will provide an opportunity to enjoy an innovative internal art activation, a first for the Silo Art Trail.

A lower viewing platform also includes an internal balcony from which visitors will be able to view the art.

Mr Schilling, now 89, said the finished product had exceeded his expectations.

“I’m more than happy to see that it’s finished. It’s just amazing – I didn’t expect it to be quite as good as what it is,” he said.

“The history timeline I didn’t expect to see right until the last, what a great idea that is. It’s wonderful – it’s brilliant.”

Mr Schilling said there were several people who had extended themselves to complete the project.

“I’ve seen a lot of this sort of work done, nowhere near as fast and as ef-

ficient and as happily done,” he said.

“The boys who worked on it were singers, you know, they’d sing, had radios going, happy as they are.”

Mr Schilling was born a stone’s throw from the silo, and lived and worked in the area until he was about 19 years old.

His son Peter said the family would visit the area in the 1970s – motorbiking, shooting and ferreting – and noticed the silo in a state of disrepair.

“One day dad must have made an inquiry to the Australian Wheat Board, who I think owned it at the time, asking if they were interested in selling the land,” he said.

“He made them an offer and they just went, ‘yep, done’.”

After purchasing the solo, his father had many ideas for its use, including plans for a revolving restaurant to sit at its top.

“He’s always thought big, and a lot of it seemed like dreams,” Peter said.

“A lot of people around here said, oh, Llew wants a ‘revolting’ restaurant on top.”

Peter convinced his father to lease it to council, and at stage one of the build, his father had developed new ideas of cable cars and a man-made lake.

“I like the structure of what they’ve built, but also the structure of the silo itself. A lot of people will never have seen inside a silo, so you’ve got that to start with,” he said.

“Then you’ve got the artwork on the outside that Geoffrey Carran’s done

FAMILY CELEBRATION: From left, Brock, Wendy, Peter and Leigh Schilling celebrate the Llew Schilling Silo at Rainbow. Leigh is making a documentary about the silo development.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER – it involves a cactus that’s actually in dad’s garden, and a Mallee Emu Wren, which are a very rare little bird now, they only weigh about four grams.

“But then when you go inside you’ve got this digiglass art that’s going to be something else, and I think that’s a point of difference.”

Peter said he was amazed the project was delivered on budget.

“They spent a lot of money on making sure the silo was sound first, and then the concept was this big building on top, a museum in the middle and a

spiral staircase,” he said. The council has a 30-year lease on the silo.

“The bonus for dad is that council will maintain the site and the building – he’s 90 in March,” Peter said.

“But the main thing, and it’s written to the lease, that the use of it’s to be for the benefit of the township of Rainbow, so it can’t really go off track.”

Artist James Voller, founder and director of Collide Public Art Initiative, responsible for the internal art, said he hoped the feature would be popular with visitors.

“We’ve really enjoyed developing the internal and external artworks for the Rainbow silo project, it’s such a unique opportunity,” he said.

“Geoffrey Carran’s external mural looks fantastic and has already received lots of positive feedback.”

The project has been funded by the State Government’s Tourism Infrastructure Program – Flagship Projects and Hindmarsh Shire Council.

– Bronwyn Hastings

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g n i m a o R h p l o d Ru NT E V E Y A TWO D

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FA M I LY J E W E L L E R S

FA M I LY J E W E L L E R S

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Police drive home safety message

A

15-day police operation will focus on road safety during the festive season – identified as one of the highest risk periods on Victorian roads.

Operation Roadwise, starting on Thursday and concluding on January 1, will involve police targeting high-risk areas, including major arterial roads and popular holiday hotspots across regional areas.

Acting Sergeant Craig Mauger, of Horsham police, said police would be highly visible and enforcing across the state to reduce road trauma and positively influence road-user behaviour.

Sgt Mauger said there would be a major focus on impaired drivers and testing for alcohol and drugs.

“It has been another terrible year on our roads, and we will be doing all we can to keep people safe on Victorian roads for the remainder of the year,” he said.

Sgt Mauger said police would focus on people driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

“The festive period is synonymous with events and celebrations, which often result in alcohol and drug consumption,” he said.

“There will be zero tolerance for drink and drug driving over the Christmas and New Year period, and motorists should expect to be tested while out on the roads – police will have a major focus on impaired drivers during this time.”

Sgt Mauger said miscalculation of alcohol consumption was one of the most common reasons given to police when drivers were caught over the limit, suggesting that many people were prepared to risk having a few drinks before getting behind the wheel.

“We need everyone to completely separate

the behaviours of drinking and driving – they don’t mix,” he said.

“Driving is a complex task that requires concentration, judgement and decision-making.

Alcohol affects these skills and your ability to safely control a vehicle.”

Sgt Mauger said the message was simple for people planning to have a drink over the festive season – don’t drive, leave the car at home, arrange a designated driver, and use alternative transport.

“We don’t want to see anybody getting behind the wheel if they’re impaired,” he said.

“While we won’t hesitate to remove impaired drivers from our roads, we also ask all Victorians to make smart decisions before getting behind the wheel.”

Sgt Mauger said people travelling across regional Victoria needed to be aware that police would be targeting speeding and distracted drivers on high-risk, rural roads and highways.

He said more than half of this year’s fatal collisions had occurred on regional roads, and police urged anyone heading to regional Victoria to take extra care.

Police urged drivers to be cautious when travelling near heavy vehicles and vehicles towing caravans and campers – maintain a safe braking distance and never overtake on double white lines or when visibility is poor.

Police will also be targeting speeding drivers throughout Operation Roadwise – not only dangerous drivers who excessively speed, but also those who think it’s acceptable to speed at low to mid-range.

“Speed remains the number one cause of road trauma and fatalities,” Sgt Mauger said.

“Slowing down could be the difference between arriving alive and not arriving at all.”

MEMORIES: Seventyyear service award recipient Max Hateley recalls the Black Saturday fire that impacted Haven in 2009 as being the biggest he has seen.

Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Volunteer service recognised The celebration of Max Hateley’s 70 years of CFA volunteerism was part of District 17 Headquarters Brigade awards presentation at Horsham, where more than 300 volunteer years were recognised.

A teenager when he attended his first fire, Mr Hateley said he knew nothing of his CFA registration.

“I was signed up and I didn’t know anything about it – I was sent to a fire with another bloke, we went to a fire down Laharum way,” he said.

“I wasn’t a member of any fire brigade at that stage, and Mitre never had a fire brigade.

“I feel that Natimuk signed me up then, because you had to be a member of a fire brigade to go to a fire.”

Mr Hateley fought fires at Mitre alongside his younger brother Geoffrey, who was also

captain of the brigade for several years.

Mr Hateley’s service records show he joined Natimuk and District Fire Brigade in 1955, and was a member at Mitre from 1973 until 2018, when he obtained a dual membership with the headquarters brigade.

Now volunteering for the authority in a different capacity, Mr Hateley said he assisted firefighters during major fires.

“You don’t necessarily have to be on a truck to be in a fire brigade,” he said.

“Headquarters brigade provides meals, drinking water, foam and all that sort of stuff to firefighters.

“We travel anywhere across the district, from Horsham to the other side of Edenhope, up as far as Rainbow.”

First registered in 2006, headquarters brigade also supplies

a forward operations vehicle, amenities trailer, mobile coolroom, fuel trailer and a staging area trailer at major fires in District 17 and beyond.

Service awards were also presented to headquarters brigade members, some of whom still have dual membership with other brigades, including: Campbell Mitchell, for 55 years; Dale Russell, 40 years as both volunteer and staff; Geoff Stratford, 35 years; Bronwyn McIntyre, 30 years; Amanda Krause, 20 years; Geoff Evans, 15 years; and 10 years for Don Topping, Debra Cook, Angie Wood and Kola Kennedy.

David Arnott and Judy Hill were absent from the presentation, and will receive their respective 30-year and 10-year medals at a later date.

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Page 9

Rogers earns green blazer for worlds

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

LIVING HIS DREAM: Competition shearer Dan Rogers, pictured during the 2025 Shearing and Woolhandling National Championships in Jamestown, South Australia, with teammate Mal Griffiths, will represent Australia at the Golden Shears World Championships in New Zealand next year.

F

or Telangatuk East’s Daniel Rogers, an appearance at March’s Golden Shears World Championships in New Zealand will be the culmination of years of ambition and improvement.

Rogers, 33, took up blade shearing as an 18-year-old on his family’s merino stud, but said he only began approaching it as a competitive endeavour more recently.

“In the stud industry we shear a lot of sale rams and show sheep with the blades because it gives them a better surface than machine shearing,” he said.

“I’ve been doing that with a crew – Ken French, Mal Griffiths and a few other young blokes – and we probably shear about 1000 rams a year in March and August.

“About four years ago I got a little bit keen and went in the competitions following Ken, who has been the Australian champion and has gotten as high as fifth in the world.

“He encouraged me to have a crack, so I started doing the comps and had a little bit of success – I made the Victorian team for the fourth time this year.”

An early taste of success made Rogers hungry for more, and representing his country within the sport soon became a major goal.

“You go to a show and have a bit of success and you just get sucked in a little bit,” he said.

“The show shearing is a little bit different to the stud shearing we do.

“It’s more like a sport. I’ve now given up footy and tennis and it’s just one of those things you practise at and

get a little bit better. I’ve just slowly been chipping away trying to get in that top-two position trying to get into the world championships.”

Rogers realised his dream in October at the 2025 Shearing and Woolhandling National Championships in Jamestown, South Australia.

Representing Victoria alongside his friend and fellow Wimmera resident Griffiths, Rogers placed second in the country behind only John Dalla – punching his ticket to the Golden Shears World Championships in the process.

Rogers said it was a proud moment for him.

“I suppose when everyone starts shearing they can always imagine themselves being a national champion or something like that,” he said.

“Especially in machine shearing,

I’ve always known about the world championships, and when you watch the machine guys on YouTube they’re incredible.

“Once I got into the competitions about four years ago, I made it a bit of a goal to try to make the Australian team and get my green blazer.

“It’s something you can say you’ve done that not many people have.”

But Rogers said the hard work had only just begun, with the championships in New Zealand likely to present a new set of challenges.

“Now I’m flat out training. I’m shearing a lot of crossbred lambs and sheep because over in New Zealand we’ll be shearing romneys and perendales, which I’ve never shorn before.

I’ve never even seen a perendale before,” he said.

“We’re used to shearing merino

rams, so it’s completely different.

They’re harder to get flat – with blade shearing you leave chip marks in them a lot.”

In addition to shearing new breeds, Rogers said he would face a steep rise in competition.

“New Zealand still does a commercial blade-shearing run up in the high country where it’s snowing. They’re still shearing 160 sheep a day with the blades up there – they’re absolute guns,” he said.

“In South Africa they still do quite a lot of blade shearing in parts of the country where they don’t have power, so they smash a heap out with the blades.

“We’re probably the only three countries that still do a bit of blade shearing – South Africa, New Zealand who do it commercially and then the

Australian stud industry, which is not huge – but in saying that there are some good Irish, Welsh and English blade shearers who have been going around the comps for a long time.

“Then there’s German, Japanese and French shearers.

“I’ve never seen the South Africans shear. They’ve been the top of the blade shearing pretty much since the competition started, so I’m keen to see them shear in real life because watching it on YouTube isn’t the same.”

While the competition will be stiff, Rogers said he would enjoy the experience no matter the outcome.

He said above all, his appearance at the Golden Shears was made possible by the two groups that got him into shearing in the first place – his family and friends.

He thanked his mentor French, his Victorian team-mate Griffiths and Sport Shear Australia for helping him improve in the sport, as well as his family for supporting his dreams.

“There’s just a good group of mates I go around with doing it. It always makes it fun,” he said.

“It’s about the camaraderie, the same as any sport. There’s the social side of it, and then physically pushing yourself and trying to improve.

“If you can see improvement in yourself then it sucks you into wanting to improve more to get to that next level.

“Now that I’ve made the Australian team there are also opportunities like this to travel, which is a bonus as well.

I’m just excited for the opportunity.”

• For more agricultural news, see AgLife, from pages 51 to 64.

NO ONE’S UNSINKABLE To all those Unsinkable Guys out there – You might think it’s safe to have a few drinks around water, skip the life jacket when you’re out on the boat or go for a swim without checking the conditions.

But statistics prove that 4 out of 5 drownings are men.

Just remember that no one’s unsinkable.

UNSINKABLE GUY

RETHINK

TAKING RISKS AROUND WATER

Page 10

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Always look for the helpers

“

When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping’.”

What a beautiful, uplifting quote so poignant in a horrible, heartbreaking and terrifying time in our country’s history.

Psychologist and parenting expert Justin Coulson shared the quote, by American television personality and Presbyterian minister Fred Rogers, on his Facebook page yesterday, when offering advice about how to speak to children about the Bondi massacre.

After first hearing of the Bondi shooting early on Sunday night, I deliberately waited until my child had gone to bed to watch any television news.

Going to bed with a heavy heart, and waking to find out the death toll had further risen to 16, I was still struggling the next day to find the right words to tell my eight-year-old about the tragedy.

What do you say about such a hor-

EDITORIAL

By Lauren Henry

rific event. Children were shot. A girl not much older than my daughter was killed.

For children living in regional Australia, it is – as it should be – unimaginable.

Shootings – to this scale – and terrorism are, thankfully, uncommon in Australia.

And while the shooting was targeted towards the Jewish community, it was also an attack on all Australians.

For it to happen in such a public place in Sydney, at Australia’s most famous beach, hits home to the psyche of all Australians.

It is the first time Australia has experienced a terrorist attack on this scale.

Of course, our heart firstly goes out

the Jewish community, particularly those attending the Hanukkah festival at Bondi, but there were many, many more people affected by this attack.

With thousands of people at Bondi on a sunny day, the list of witnesses is countless – and their stories of what they saw are heartbreaking.

The emergency services personnel and good Samaritans who helped the victims are all heroes, but they will carry the emotional scars for life.

A key point of Dr Coulson’s advice to how to talk about it with children – focus on the ‘helpers’.

The heroes, such as Ahmed alAhmed who tackled one of the gunman, and the woman who laid over a child not known to her to shield her from gunfire; the first-responders, including the lifeguards who were integral in saving people’s lives as they applied their first-aid training to a scene that looked more like a war zone than a beach; and the general public who stayed on to help victims or those who opened their homes to strangers.

In times like these, it is sometimes tough to see a bright side, but the countless acts of courage, sacrifice and protection shows that good outweighs evil.

On the whole, most Australians can live peacefully with people from other religions, nationalities and those that come from different walks of life.

As we are in the midst of festive celebrations – whether that be Christians celebrating Christmas, Jewish people marking Hanukkah, or any religion recognising their own special time of year – it should be a time of peace and joy for all.

Australia’s diversity is one of the reasons that makes us such a great country.

We look to help people, rather than hurt people.

So when the onslaught of media coverage becomes too much – and yes, this even happens to journalists – remember: Always look for the helpers.

Newspaper Christmas edition to be published Tuesday The Weekly Advertiser will publish a special Christmas edition on Tuesday, December 23.

The paper will change from its usual publication day of a Wednesday to a Tuesday to accommodate the Christmas public holidays.

The change of date also allows advertisers to publicise any last-minute Christmas shopping and Boxing Day

ore

sales. Brendan O’Loughlin, general manager of The Weekly Advertiser, 3WM and MIXX FM, said publishing a Tuesday edition meant that week’s edition avoided being delivered on Christmas Eve. “It made sense to publish an edition just prior to Christmas – rather than come back in early January after our annual two-week break over

the Christmas-New Year period,” he said.

“It is a little bit different to what we usually do – we have never published on a Tuesday before – but we think this will suit our advertisers, many of who also take a well-earned break over Christmas.”

To accommodate the earlier publication date, production deadlines

will be brought forward. “The Weekly Advertiser is compiled for publication on Tuesday, so meeting these revised deadlines will help us ensure your advertising appears as planned in the final pre-Christmas edition,” Mr O’Loughlin said.

The first edition for 2026 will be published on Wednesday, January 14.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Shoebox thanks

On behalf of Samaritan’s Purse, Operation Christmas Child, I would like to convey my heartfelt thanks to the numerous individuals and churches who were involved this year in packing a shoebox for a child in need.

Each child is special and they will receive one shoebox of gifts only once in their lifetime.

This gift will bring immediate joy and hope to the child and may open up further opportunities that they had never dreamed of.

Samaritan’s Purse can then assess the needs of the community such as safe clean water, education, health and other community empowerment projects then implement programs where possible.

The generosity of so many people was phenomenal.

Our region sent 2093 shoeboxes to Sydney for processing. In addition some people elected to pack a box online instead of a physical box.

The shoeboxes this year are destined for either the Ukraine, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Cambodia or the Philippines.

The total collected from Victoria was 31,700 shoeboxes, with more than 210,000 Australia-wide.

All of our local team would like to give a huge thank you to each person who took the time to become involved, either by packing a shoebox physically or online, or by donating goods or money.

Thank you also to the many people who made beautiful handmade items for the boxes.

Whatever you did will be so much appreciated by an excited child.

We look forward to working with you all again next year.

Ann Rohde, area co-ordinator Samaritan’s Purse

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Page 11

West Gate Tunnel now open The West Gate Tunnel offers a vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge. Drivers have more choices with new connections linking the West Gate Freeway to CityLink and Melbourne’s CBD. It will ease congestion on the West Gate Freeway and West Gate Bridge, so you can enjoy more of what Melbourne has to offer.

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Page 12

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

JOIN US ON OUR FULLY ESCORTED TOURS FROM HOME BRITAIN & IRELAND 2026

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PROUD: Horsham Arts Council representatives collected a Music Theatre Guild of Victoria award for best concert/review for The Last 10 Years.

Departs June 18, 2026

Arts council wins Guild honour H

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

orsham Arts Council production The Last 10 Years has won a Music Theatre Guild of Victoria award.

A mix of a dozen HAC members, representing this year’s productions, The Last 10 Years and Godspell, attended the awards ceremony in Melbourne on Saturday.

HAC’s Chris Versteegen said the amateur theatre event showcased 50 different companies from across the state attend.

“We had a mixture of life members of the Horsham Arts Council, cast members, production team members, and directors and vocal directors attend,” he said.

“It was a real mixture of young and old, because the guild’s award night is a great chance to see some of the other performers from across Victoria, see what they’re doing, and also catch up with people and network with people from other companies.”

Versteegen, executive producer of The Last 10 Years, said HAC members were incredibly proud of their win.

“To be recognised in among everyone in that concert revue section for the year, we’re incredibly proud,” he said.

“It’s not only the big budgets that they get in the Melbournes or the Geelongs, but it’s the access to talent they have when they’re in those major centres.

“You’ve got people who are musically-trained or performance-trained, who might be having a little break from the professional scene and they’re happy to just do a couple of amateur shows here and there.

“Whereas here in Horsham we’ve got such a small population-base to choose from, and to show we’re still able to bat with those big companies – we’re really proud.”

Versteegen said HAC had enjoyed a couple of wins during its time.

“We often get quite a few nominations and commendations, but to actually take home the trophy is a huge achievement,” he said.

“We were just thrilled to be there and be included in the same conversation as some of the huge companies with huge budgets and huge representation from the professional space – we’re really proud.”

New committee

HAC has announced its new committee for 2026 – a mix of old and new, Versteegen said.

“I have to mention how proud I am of my beautiful partner, Erin, who’s the new president of the Horsham Arts Council,” he said.

“She’s been on the committee now for a number of years and she’s already demonstrated leadership in directing roles and in set-designing, and she managed the props and set hire through the Horsham Arts Council last year, so she’s going to do an outstanding job as president.

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

EGYPT TOUR 2026

“We often get quite a few nominations and commendations, but to actually take home the trophy is a huge achievement”

Departs September, 2026

– Chris Versteegen

“The new committee has a few new faces, but lots of old faces who are there to support her.

Simon Dandy’s kept his role and Faye Johns has kept her role, so there’s lots of experience along with some fresh new faces to bring new ideas as well.

“It’s going to be a really, really good committee next year.”

Debbie Boutcher is vice president; Faye Johns, secretary; Simon Dandy, treasurer; and a general committee of Loucas Vettos, Sandy Wills, Darcy Hogan, Alayna Toporzisek, Ebony Hart and Ian Bennett.

Outgoing committee members are Nick Wilson, James Henwood, Kayla Wilson and Heath Johns.

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HAC has also announced its cast for its familyfriendly 2026 production, The Wizard of Oz, which Versteegen said was a challenging process with more than 160 people auditioning.

“It’s a bit like The Last 10 years in the amount of auditionees who put their hand up and wanted to be involved,” he said.

“Casting included kids all the way down to age five, which is always going to be really tough.”

Versteegen said it was the first time some children had sung for anyone outside their families.

“So to go through that process, they would’ve learned so much about the Horsham Arts Council and about singing in front of audition panels,” he said.

“It’s a great experience for all across the spectrum, and then you’ve got the kids who are actually lucky enough to be cast.

“They’ll be able to go through the rehearsal process and learn from some experienced vocal directors and experienced choreographers, and get to go up on stage in the full costume and makeup.

“It’s really exciting, and such a family-friendly show.”

Harriet Overman will play Dorothy; Darcy Hogan, Scarecrow; Noah Wineberg, Tinman; Noah Mibus, Cowardly Lion; Stacey Brennan, Wicked Witch; Jess Wilson, Glinda; and Simon Dandy in the title role.

Backing vocalists are Erin Smith, Faye Johns, Kerry Wilson, Lauren Douglas, Leonie Marshman and Tim O’Donnell. The featured ensemble is Ebony Hart, Loucas Vettos, Malcolm Smith and Sandy Wills, with an ensemble and two children’s casts for alternating performances.

The Wizard of Oz stages across April and May next year, tickets are not yet on sale.

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Drawcard fishing event ramping up T

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

he Horsham Fishing Competition will return for its 49th iteration in March next year, with plans already afoot for a half-century celebration in 2027.

President Bart Turgoose said features of past years would return, with the competition again partnering with the Wimmera Catchment Management Authority, CMA, to make the weekend as sustainable as possible.

“We’ll continue the catch-and-release program where people can catch a fish, take a photo of it on their brag mat and then release it back into the water,” he said.

“That’s one of our main things – working with the Wimmera CMA to try to return as many fish to the water alive as possible.

“Then we’re obviously working to try to eradicate carp out of the river as well, so there will still be the cash-for-carp competition.”

Mr Turgoose said organisers were working to determine a list of prizes for the upcoming competition, with local businesses again coming on board to support.

“Last year we had a travel voucher as our firstplace prize and we’ll probably look at something similar to that again,” he said.

“I think the committee is pretty happy with where our prize list sits and what it looks like.

“We’ve got our major sponsor in The Weekly Advertiser, and the Wimmera CMA is back on board again this year.

“We’re very thankful for all our sponsors. A business like Horsham Doors and Glass I think have sponsored the competition for pretty much

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SKATING FUN: The threeday Skate into Summer event at Ararat Town Hall at the weekend has been hailed a resounding success, with about 1000 tickets sold. Fun-seekers travelled from as far away as Hopetoun, Horsham, Ballarat, Warrnambool, Melbourne and Gippsland for the family-friendly event, coinciding with some Ararat businesses opening late, and Carols by Candlelight event at Alexandra Gardens on Friday night.

An over-18 karaoke event in the town hall foyer on Saturday night was another highlight, while sensory sessions over the weekend also proved worthwhile.

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every year that they’ve been around.” Mr Turgoose said the public’s support was also key in enabling the competition to run each year, and encouraged people to consider volunteering.

“Going into next year we’ll have our annual general meeting at some point, so if people are interested in joining and want to volunteer, that’s always something we’re in need of,” he said.

“It’s run by volunteers – we don’t get paid to do it, we do it because we love it.

“There’s a form on the website for anyone who is interested in volunteering.”

Mr Turgoose said it was the support of the community that had allowed the Horsham Fishing Competition to become a fixture on the Wimmera calendar for nearly 50 years.

“It’s a drawcard, and it brings about $500,000 into the community in one weekend, which is quite a whack of money,” he said.

“That’s the whole reason it was founded – to support local businesses, draw people into the town and make Horsham a place to be on the long weekend.

“That’s why we’ve continued to expand on it by partnering with the greyhounds, doing a movie night and hosting kids activities.

“There’s a bit of everything for everyone, and most of it is free, so people can come along and get involved without having to pay an arm and a leg.”

People can visit www.horshamfishingcomp. com.au for more information or to volunteer, and businesses interested in sponsoring the competition can email info@horshamfishingcomp. com.au.

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Festive fun

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HO HO HO: Donin Sarah Ciju and Diyon Ciju visit Santa at Horsham Plaza. Santa is JINGLE TO DIMBOOLA: ACE Radio’s Kelly Schilling, Tori Menzel and Olivia Lehmann from available for visitors from 3pm to 5pm weekdays and 11am to 1pm on Saturday and Dimboola Store, and Lily Olver, ACE Radio, enjoy Dimboola’s shopping celebration.

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FESTIVE: Stan Hart, Mariah Hart and Jess Mabanta, enjoy combined Oasis Wimmera and Wimmera Filipino Australian Club Christmas celebrations at Sawyer park.

TOGETHER: Wimmera Filipino Australian Club president Ruby Mackley, front, with the club’s committee and guests.

DRESSED TO IMPRESS: Horsham Golf Croquet players during a social Christmas event on Wednesday last week.

DESIGN: Artwork by St Mary’s Primary School Hamilton grade four student Chelsea Uebergang will feature on the cover of Member for Lowan Emma Kealy’s Christmas card this year.

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Doors reopen at Maroona Hotel W

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

ith the backing of a community, a committee of management and a proven catering team, the Maroona Hotel will officially reopen its doors today, a decade after closing.

Caterer Mick McKerron, who is running the hotel with partner and chef Jody Sutherland, said the previous owner wanted to sell, but with the community’s best interests at heart.

“The previous lessee Margie Wilson had been here about 20 years and she wanted to get out and travel,” he said.

“She put the pub on the market, and there was some interest from people who just wanted it for accommodation, but Margie stood firm and said, ‘no way’.”

Mr McKerron said the idea of he and Ms Sutherland running the hotel at Maroona, south of Ararat, was presented to them, but he thought it an off-the-cuff comment.

“It was mentioned at a dinner that we were catering, and I’d been feeding them wine half the night, so we just laughed it off,” he said.

“But then we were at home and Bruce McDougall – he’s the ringleader – rang, and we had a

ARRR!

chat. They spoke to other people too, but in the end, we decided we would be the best fit for what they were after.

“They knew what food we could do, and here we are – what have we got to lose?”

The hotel has more than 80 shareholders, and has had kitchen and beer system upgrades.

The menu is traditional pub food, served lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday, and caters to intolerances.

“We have gone heavily down the gluten-free way because Jody’s gluten-free,” Mr McKerron said.

“We’ve got several gluten-free meals – chicken parmas, tempura flathead, crispy pork belly, pasta, a vegie parma if people so desire, and pasta and children’s chicken nuggets.”

The hotel can host diners in its beer garden, bistro and café areas, has traditional beers on tap and will stock Grampians region wines.

“Hotels are a great meeting place for local farmers and families, and that’s what we want to try and bring back,” Mr McKerron said.

“Family-orientated, good meals, cold beer, and a friendly vibe.”

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Ararat Rural City Council is inviting residents and visitors to come together for Australia Day celebrations on January 26 to honour local achievers, welcome new citizens and enjoy free family activities across the municipality.

The program includes a civic ceremony and awards at Ararat’s Alexandra Oval Community Centre, a ‘Party in the Park’ at Alexandra Gardens and pool parties at Willaura and Lake Bolac.

The day will begin with a free breakfast at Alexandra Community Centre from 9am to 10am, cooked and served by the Lions Club.

From 9.30am the Ararat City Band will play live music to kick off official proceedings, with a show ‘n’ shine event also planned.

From 10am, the council’s Australia Day Awards will recognise Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, and Community Project of the Year, shining a light on the people and groups making a positive difference in the municipality.

Mayor Bob Sanders will lead a citizenship ceremony, with an affirmation led by the deputy mayor.

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Cr Sanders said the day was an opportunity to recognise the generosity of community-minded residents and hear their stories.

“Every year, our awards show just how many people quietly get on with helping their neighbours, backing their clubs, and supporting local projects, and it is a privilege to stand alongside them,” he said.

“Australia Day in our patch is about sharing a meal, enjoying our parks and pools, and celebrating the people who roll up their sleeves for this community.”

From midday to 3pm, the council anticipates hundreds of people to converge on the Alexandra Gardens for the Party in the Park event, featuring a free barbecue lunch, live music from The Runaway Strings, free face-painting, a balloon artist, free ice-cream, food vans and a coffee van.

Activities at Willaura and Lake Bolac pools, from noon to 3pm, will feature free barbecues, games, music and giveaways.

Further details, including any updates to the program and award presentation details, will be published on the council’s website and social media channels closer to the day.

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Summer safety plea

A

uthorities are sending a strong message ahead of the holiday season for people to make the right choices when it comes to road safety.

A new campaign, launched by the Transport Accident Commission, TAC, and Victoria Police, highlights the risks of speeding and drink driving, and the critical role police play in deterring dangerous behaviours.

Two new hard-hitting television ads are central to the campaign – one with a family in a drinkdriving situation, and another with a young group of friends in a speeding scenario.

In both ads, the driver is about to make a life-altering choice when they arrive at a crossroad.

One path reveals the harsh reality of being caught by police, while the other shows the aftermath of a devastating crash. Each ad closes with a powerful reminder: ‘How your holiday ends is your choice’.

Police will increase traffic enforcement operations over the Christmas and holiday period, targeting dangerous behaviours including speed, distractions, and drink and drug driving.

The campaign will be seen across television, billboards, radio, print, cinema, social media and mobile digital platforms, until February 1.

Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne said speeding and drink-driving have devastating consequences, and the new road safety partnership campaign showed how making the right choice can avoid the outcomes.

“We want every trip to end safely this holiday season, it’s our choices behind the wheel that will keep our roads safe,” she said.

Transport Accident Commission chief executive Tracey Slatter said the campaign was a reminder of how quickly drink-driving or speeding can turn a holiday into tragedy.

“The roads will be busy this holiday season, and we can all keep each other safe – slow down, separate drinking from driving, and make safe choices behind the wheel,” she said.

The campaign, which is targeted at holiday season travel, comes as 272 people have lost their lives on Victorian roads in 2025 – compared with 274 lives lost at the same time last year.

CFA warning

Many Victorians’ summer holiday destinations have a heightened fire-risk area, prompting the Country Fire Authority to warn people to be aware of conditions to safeguard their families.

Those travelling close to parks, reserves and open grasslands or paddocks need to be alert and stay informed.

While there has been above-average rainfall in parts of the state across October and November, the Bureau of Meteorology outlook is for hotter and drier conditions, which can quickly dry out the fuels making significant fires a real possibility towards the end of December and into January.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan encouraged Victorians to pre-

pare before enjoying a break or festive getaway.

“You may be travelling to an unfamiliar area and it’s important to understand the fire risk of your holiday location. Now is not the time to become complacent,” he said.

“Grassfires can move at speeds of up to 25km per hour, faster than you can run, and they can jump highways in the right conditions.

“Visitors should learn about the area they are travelling to and monitor the fire danger ratings every day throughout summer.”

Mr Heffernan said it was important to remember fire safety is a shared responsibility.

“We have already seen some large grassfires this season. Victorians must stay vigilant, have a fire plan in place and be ready to act,” he said.

“Bushfires and rural grassfires do impact built up areas, so it really is everyone’s responsibility.

“Recent growth across pastures, woodlands and roadside reserves has created unbroken stretches of dried grass along many roadsides, increasing the chance of roadside fires.

“It is also important not to drive if you can see smoke or fire. Thick smoke will make it hard to see and make accidents more likely.”

Victorians are urged to download the VicEmergency app, set up watch zones for the location they are visiting, reconsider travel on days of extreme fire danger rating and do not travel to bushfire risk areas on days of catastrophic fire danger rating.

RERUN: Richard Bansemer took Henry Mitchell, pictured, for a drive in the restored 1966 Valiant Regal last week. The car was bought new by Mr Mitchell’s parents and sold at a clearing sale in March. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Drive down memory lane Horsham’s Henry Mitchell went for a drive in an almost-as-new Valiant Regal last week, 60 years after his parents bought it new from Horsham’s Wilson Bolton.

Mr Mitchell’s parents Ray and Lorna bought the car in 1966, when Mr Mitchell was 31.

Mrs Mitchell used to drive the 10-or-so miles from their Karnak farm into Goroke for CWA and other commitments.

“Mum passed away in 2006 after she went into a nursing home, and it hadn’t been driven since,” Mr Mitchell said.

The car was towed from the shed earlier this year, when it was sold at a clearing sale after attracting a lot of interest.

Horsham farmer and Valiant enthusiast Richard Bansemer bought and restored the car – mice had chewed and nested in the driver’s seat, and tyres, radiator, steering arms, bushes and brake lines had to be

replaced – bringing it to roadworthiness on the first inspection. Its lights were still in good working order.

Mr Bansemer, who shares his father’s interest in Valiants, said there were few miles on the odometer.

“All the service books are still in there, and it’s got 29,000 miles on it – that’s what’s on the clock, we don’t know if it’s gone over because it only goes up to 29,” he said.

“But the condition that the car’s in, I don’t see how it could have done 130,000 – that’s 200,000 kilometres.”

Mr Bansemer said he had plans to show the car in a competition.

“There’s a big Chrysler show at AlburyWodonga every year, and I think we will take this one up there,” he said.

“They have competitions of different sections, so this will be in an original section, I’d say.”

The Wesley Committee sincerely thanks our community for the incredible support shown toward the Wesley Redevelopment Project.

Your generosity helped raise close to $450,000 and played a vital role in Horsham Rural City Council’s decision to commit funding to reopen this much-loved venue, closed since 2017.

With Council investing in The Wesley as part of its 2026/27 budget, this historic space will soon return as a vibrant hub for arts, events and community gatherings.

We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and thank you for helping secure The Wesley’s future.

You’re invited to make a submission on the draft renewable energy zones

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Page 17

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Kealy: crucial issues ignored

A

s the State Government continues to roll out speed-limit reductions – instead of fixing roads – Member for Lowan Emma Kealy is calling out the government’s inability to consult with affected communities.

Residents were outraged last week when signs appeared on the AraratHalls Gap Road, between Moyston and Ararat, reducing the speed limit from 100 kilometres an hour to 80km, without any community consultation.

Ms Kealy said Labor’s justification of changing the limit because ‘managing limits is key to bringing down the number of lives lost on our roads’ completely ignored the real key issue.

“Anyone who drives on our roads knows that the road surfaces are terrible, even on our major transport routes like the Western Highway,” she said.

“For Labor to continue to lower speed limits without fixing the real problem is negligent and an insult to our communities “What’s worse is that people who use this road found out about the decision to lower the limit on social media.

“They weren’t consulted about whether a speed limit reduction was necessary or the best course of action, just told that it’s happening.”

Ms Kealy asked why the government was not fixing the real problem and upgrading the Western Highway to make it safe – an issue she and residents had been calling for over many years.

“Locals have previously noted that Ararat-Halls Gap Road should not be used as a Western Highway alternate route because regular heavy traffic is destroying the road surface, but Labor hasn’t listened,” she said.

“It’s just another example in a long line of decisions that Labor has inflicted on our communities without giving them a voice.

“It’s absolutely wrong for locals to have limited access to safe roads when it’s a problem caused by Labor’s failure to invest in roads and make them safe.”

Ms Kealy also raised the condition of roads in Parliament, demanding answers about the dangerous state of roads across the electorate.

She spoke about a ‘massive pothole’ on the Donald-Murtoa Road, between Minyip and the Donald turn-off, measuring more than one-metre wide, fourto-five metres long, with a 100mm drop-off.

“This isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s a serious safety hazard,” she said.

“But it’s not the only one. Across our region, our roads are falling apart.”

Ms Kealy listed the Wimmera Highway, between Rupanyup and Marnoo; the Henty Highway near Horsham; the Glenelg Highway, between Casterton and Coleraine; and the Hamilton Highway as major roads with significant deterioration.

“And the Western Highway still awaiting duplication – all of these roads are riddled with potholes and crumbling edges,” she said.

WELCOME BACK: Parents Junaid and Zareena and two-month-old baby Junaidah are reunited with the East Grampians Health Service obstetrics and theatre team.

Special reunion at Ararat hospital It was a special reunion for East Grampians Health Service staff when they welcomed back baby Junaidah and her parents Junaid and Zareena this month.

Born prematurely at just 32 weeks in September, Junaidah was delivered safely by EGHS staff after the Paediatric Infant Perinatal Emergency Retrieval team decided the best outcome was an immediate birth at Ararat rather than being transferred to Melbourne.

In a heartfelt letter, Junaidah’s parents shared their gratitude for the staff.

“We truly feel blessed and thankful to have been cared for by such an amazing team,” they said.

“East Grampians Health Service is not just a hospital, it’s a family that stands with you in the most precious moment of life.”

EGHS director of clinical services Bec Peters said the reunion was a wonderful reminder of the strength and capability within the organisation.

“We have a great team of highly skilled clinicians at East Grampians Health Service who are well equipped to manage obstetric emergencies,” she said.

“The teamwork here is outstanding, with everyone pulling together to ensure good care and good outcomes across the whole health service.”

After hearing the uplifting story during their October meeting, EGHS board members expressed their appreciation to staff across ultrasound in the medical imaging department, the inpatient unit, and maternity and theatre staff, for their exceptional care and commitment.

“The reunion was not only a celebration of baby Junaidah’s progress, but also a testament to the dedication, professionalism and kindness of the EGHS team – qualities that continue to make a difference to families in our community,” Ms Peters said.

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Page 19

www.ararat.vic.gov.au

@araratruralcitycouncil

ROAD SAFETY STRATEGY & ACTION PLAN: HAVE YOUR SAY

We're improving road safety across the Ararat Rural City in collaboration with our local community. Council is working with DWB Engineering to develop a comprehensive 'Community Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan.' DWB has already surveyed local residents, and Tuesday 16 December from 9.30am-12.30pm they'll be conducting an in-person session to talk further with residents about specific locations they believe require road safety improvements at Alexandra Oval Community Centre.

Residents can also leave their recommendations and thoughts at Engage Ararat. Scan the QR Code to get further details or share your views.

COMMUNITY CONSULTATION SESSIONS COMING TO YOU

Council is hitting the road this month with a series of informal community engagement sessions, giving residents the chance to meet Councillors and key staff, ask questions, raise concerns and hear updates on local projects, budget priorities and future plans. These short, drop-in style sessions will be held in towns and communities across the municipality. Details about each session will be shared via Council’s Facebook page in the coming days and a full list of dates, times and locations will be on on Engage Ararat.

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN

The 2026 Australia Day Awards celebrate the people who contribute their time, skills, and energy to enrich local life.

Awards will include Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and Community Leader of the Year. We encourage residents to put forward a neighbour, volunteer, or leader who inspires others through their generous community spirit. Do you know a group, event or initiative that deserves to be celebrated? Is there a team of volunteers making a difference behind the scenes? Scan the QR Code to nominate. You can also pick up a paper nomination form from the Council Customer Service desk or the Ararat Library. Nominations close 5 January 2026.

KITTENS ARE AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION TO LOCAL RESIDENTS

Council has four adorable kittens ready to meet their new families that are now available for adoption. These playful tabbies (two girls and two boys) have been vaccinated, wormed and microchipped, and are keen to find loving local homes. Visit our website at the QR code to complete an adoption form. Kittens are $100 and that includes their microchip, vaccinations, worming, registration and desexing when they're old enough. Source ID # BR101787.

SUMMER FIRE RESTRICTION PERIOD ANNOUNCED

ARC's Fire Danger Period began on 1.00am Monday 15 December 2025. During this period, you can still use BBQs, small campfires and fire pits if you follow strict conditions, including a clear area 3 metres around the fire, constant supervision and fully extinguishing the fire before you leave. Scan the QR code to check the CFA “Can I or Can’t I?” page. Total Fire Ban restrictions are to be followed when called.

Sign up to Council’s official e-newsletter to receive important info about our community, including infrastructure updates, upcoming events, and the latest Council news stories. Scan the QR code to join via Engage Ararat (engageararat.vic.gov.au).

Page 20

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Health service sets annual report high

G

rampians Community Health has supported an additional 1000 people this year than last year, setting a record for the service.

The service’s annual report shows 5046 clients were supported by 230 staff and 36 volunteers.

Chief executive Greg Little said much of the growth came from aged care and NDIS services.

“GCH has also introduced new programs, including the community paramedic program, chronic health support programs, Diabetes Connect and other health-focused programs,” he said.

“We’re meeting targets and, in some cases, exceeding them and dealing with wait lists.”

During the year, staff covered 769,871 kilometres, while 168 volunteers drove 41,636 kilometres to take people to medical appointments.

Staff also answered 36,686 phone calls; provided 21,659 hours of family-violence support; 10,450 hours of carer support and respite; 1653 hours supporting healthy mothers, healthy babies; 3914 hours of counselling; 1306 hours chronic disease management and 1957 hours diabetes support.

A total of 1028 people accessed in-home supports and GCH supported about 250 home care package clients.

There were 535 counselling referrals, and 497 carers were supported. There were also 839 NDIS participants in the past year.

The need continues in the region to provide support for people with alcohol and other drug issues, with 417 people seeking support.

Outgoing chair Patricia Flood said GCH celebrated significant milestones during 2024-25, including accreditation under the Quality Improvement Council and National Mental Health Standards, while growing its regional impact

with new programs dedicated to equitable community-based care.

“Throughout four decades of change, GCH has remained true to its purpose – standing beside people, responding to local needs, and supporting our communities,” she said.

“GCH will launch a new strategic plan next year, and is well placed to meet future challenges.”

After warning last year of tight financial times for community health services, GCH recorded its first deficit, of $297,294, for almost a decade, despite revenue of more than $44-million. This follows a $60,665 surplus the previous financial year.

Mr Little said it was a tough environment for all community health services.

“Ongoing cost pressures and a lack of growth in community health funding cast a shadow over our work, but our staff continue to give their all, as we advocate for more government support,” he said.

“We have made tough decisions and are budgeting for a break-even result this financial year.”

Mr Little said GCH remained in a strong position with total net assets of more than $6-million.

“GCH remains a strong advocate for the community with a deep commitment to connection and care,” he said.

“Our role as custodians of the community health program is not taken lightly.”

Included in GCH’s highlights of the year, was the opening a new site at Nhill, new partnerships including with Grampians Health to support children in foster care, and a CP@clinic pilot to bring proactive health checks into community settings.

GCH was also involved in relief and recovery operations across the region during and after the summer bushfires.

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CHAMPION: Grampians Community Health media officer Rick Bayne, left, is presented the health service’s community health champion award by chief executive Greg Little.

Bayne wins inaugural award Writer Rick Bayne has won Grampians Community Health’s inaugural community health champion award for his outstanding contribution to the service.

Mr Bayne has been GCH’s media officer for more than five years and wrote the stories in the 40th anniversary publication ‘Celebrating 40 Years – Stories of Community Health’.

He also does media work for the Alliance of Rural and Regional Community Health, AARCH, and other community health organisations.

GCH chief executive Greg Little said the award was for an individual or organisation whose outstanding contribution, partnership and commitment had strengthened community health across the region.

“Rick will find something about a volunteer, a staff member or a client and turn it into an interesting story that helps to promote the work Wednesday, December 17, 2025

that we do,” he said. “His ability to find these stories makes us think about what we do and how we do it.

“Community health has never sought to be on the front page, but with Rick’s knowledge and ability to tell the story as it is, the work that community health achieves in supporting our local communities gets noticed.

“He is such a deserving inaugural award winner.”

Mr Bayne said it was easy to find good stories from GCH’s work.

“I’m always impressed by the positive work environment at GCH and the dedication of staff to stand up for people in the community and to enrich their lives,” he said.

A state-wide Community Health Champion winner will be announced at the AARCH conference in March at Ballarat.

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Page 21

from your local businesses

The team at The Mess & Barracks extends our sincere wishes to all our guests for a wonderful and joyful festive season.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

The team at Horsham Lanes and Games wish you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year and thank you for your support in 2025.

Grampians Insurance Brokers would like to wish our valued clients a safe and enjoyable Christmas and thank them for their continued support throughout 2025.

Thank you for your generous support throughout the year, we look Our office will be closed from 99 Barkly Christmas Street, AraratEve, • 3 Patrick Street, forward to welcoming you back in 2026. reopening onStawell 5352 2661 or 5358 4030 • www.grampiansinsurance.com.au January 5.

Open everyday over the festive season except Christmas Day.

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99 Barkly Street, Ararat • 3 Patrick Street, Stawell 5352 2661 or 5358 4030 • www.grampiansinsurance.com.au

The Team from

Horsham

Thank you to all our patrons, old and new for your support in 2025.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a safe, happy New Year. We look forward to welcoming you in 2026.

Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day only

1C Bennett Road, Horsham | 5382 1416

would like to wish all their valued Nutrien clients throughout the Wimmera and Mallee all the very best for Christmas and hope the following year is a prosperous one.

We look forward to serving you next year with the same professional service you’ve become accustomed to.

We will be closing at 6pm on December 23 and reopening noon on January 2. January hours are Sunday-Thursday noon to 6pm and Friday-Saturday noon to 8pm.

See you in 2026!

Insurance, it’s what we do

The team at Nhill Pharmacy wish everyone a merry Christmas and happy and healthy new year.

We look forward to helping you with all your health and wellbeing needs in 2026!

CLOSED: December 25th to 26th, January 1st

21 Victoria St, Nhill

5391 1456

Merry Christmas

Ararat

from the team at VICTORIAN STORE OF THE YEAR 2025 Priceline Pharmacy Ararat would like to wish a Merry Closed from 24th of December, Christmas and a Happy New Year to their customers!

Extended Christmas Hours: Sat 20, 9am - 4pm & Sun 21, 10am - 1pm. Closed for public holidays.

119 BARKLY STREET, ARARAT

PH: 03 5352 1007

The team at Grow Master Grampians would like to wish everyone Happy New Year!

We have enjoyed adding colour to your garden over the past 12 months and look forward to doing it all again next year. Closed for the public holidays.

Come See Us: 93 Lambert St, Ararat

(03) 5352 1977

Dain, Carly and the team would like to thank Horsham

reopening 5th of Jan, 2026.

133 High Street, Ararat 3377 Ph: 03 5352 1643 Web: www.araratauto.com.au Wimmera Lutheran College wishes its students and the wider community a blessed Christmas and Happy New Year.

The College will welcome students back across multiple dates in January, 2026.

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Jim & the team at Beaufort News & Tatts Would like to wish you a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year.

Anthony, Mark & Clint wish their clients a very merry Christmas & a happy New Year. Thanks for the support over the last 12 months, looking forward to the next 12 months.

Office is closed from the December 22 to January 6, 2026

Kevin, Lyn, Travis, Dallas, their families and the team at KLM Concreting Soil Yard and Plant Nursery thank their customers for their patronage and look forward to their continued support in the coming year.

All the best for a safe and prosperous new year!

Closed Dec 24 from noon – re-opening Jan 2

5382 6230 5382 5002

BEAUFORT NEWS & TATTS SMD wish their valued clients a safe and merry Christmas.

Josh looks forward to assisting with your service, diagnostics, auto-elec, accessories, a/c & batteries in 2026.

CLOSING ON DECEMBER 19 AND REOPENING JANUARY 19.

community for their continuous support in 2025.

We'll be taking a well deserved break between Dec 24 and Jan 1, reopening on the Friday, Jan 2.

Thank you for your support over the year and look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

CLOSED PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

With harvest underway and the season finish fast approaching, all the team at WG&SF McPherson Brim would like to wish all their valued clients and families a very Merry Christmas!

From Wavell and Shirley, Chris, Colleen and all the team, thank you all for your continued support and ongoing partnerships. We wish you all a safe, prosperous and Happy New Year for the 2026 season ahead.

BOWERS CHIROPRACTIC CENTRE Dr Pauline Walsh and her team at Bowers Chiropractic would like to thank all their customers for their wonderful support during the year and wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

The team would like to welcome Dade Gardiner to the team in the New Year.

We will be closing on December 22 and reopening on January 7.

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The Horsham Arts Council would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

They thank you for coming to see their shows in 2025 and look forward to seeing you at their April 2026 show, Wizard of Oz!

horshamartscouncil.com Fully qualified First Aid Trainer Casey and the team wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and looks forward to providing courses to the Wimmera in 2026 PO Box 6, Murtoa VIC 3390 Ph: 0408 341 755 Email: admin@caseykoschfirstaid.com.au

McAlpine Crash Repairs wish all our valued customers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Closed �rom 24th o� December to 19th o� January

MERRY CHRISTMAS

The Team from

Dimboola would like to wish all their valued Nutrien clients throughout the Wimmera and Mallee all the very best for Christmas and hope the following year is a prosperous one.

We look forward to serving you next year with the same professional service you’ve become accustomed to.

Page 22

Seasons greetings from Management and Staff at Manhari Recycling.

Jude, Al and the team from J & A Fencing wish their valued clients a Merry Christmas and happy New Year. Looking forward to providing the same professional service through out the coming year!

24 Hamilton Road, Horsham admin@jandfencing.com.au 5347 0343 Closed from noon, Friday Dec 19, re-opening 9am, Monday Jan 12 www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

We will be closed from midday on Friday, December 19; reopening on Monday, January 5, 2026.

T&B F LO O R I NG Carpet and Vinyl

Trav & Beck wish their valued customers a very Merry Christmas & a happy New Year.

Our the office will be closed from December 19 - January 12.

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Building safe, equal and respectful communities Working together to prevent violence against women and gender diverse people

Heightened risks of family violence T

BY LAUREN HENRY

he festive season is not always a time of celebration, presenting a heightened risk for family violence for many people.

Victoria Police statistics show that December consistently has the highest rate of family violence incidents.

For instance, in December 2024, 9734 family violence incidents were reported to police, with the second highest in March, followed by January.

In past years, police have noted an average increase of 33 per cent of family violence incidents on Christmas Day alone.

Family violence affects all areas of society, regardless of people’s socioeconomic status, background, education or profession.

Support service Berry Street has outlined five key reasons why family violence rates tended to increase during the Christmas period:

• Intensified family stressors: The holiday and Christmas period can bring significant stress, including financial pressures, increased childcare demands, and the burden of hosting or attending family gatherings.

These stressors can create tension within families – sometimes leading to violence. Someone already using violence or abusive behaviours may be more likely to increase those behaviours as a means to feel in control.

They may blame their increased stress as the reason, but it’s important to remember that many people experience increased stress at this time of year and do not use violence or abuse.

Violence and abusive behaviours are never okay.

• Reduced safe spaces: Often victimsurvivors may use places away from the home such as their workplace or places of education as a safe space away from their partner. However,

during the holiday period, schools break-up for the year, and workplaces often implement forced annual leave meaning for many Australians, a significantly increased amount of time is spent at home – meaning people who are targeted by someone using violence might have fewer opportunities for respite or to seek support.

Additionally, the presence of extended family members can make it more difficult for either the person using violence or the person they target to disclose the abuse or seek help.

• Creating the illusion of ‘togetherness’: The pressure to maintain a happy and harmonious family image during the holidays can lead people using violence and abuse or the people they target to conceal their behaviours or experiences. Many families do not want to consider that even if a family member appears friendly, charming or charismatic, they might be hiding

a pattern of behaviour towards their partner or children that reduces their family member’s access to choice, control and safety.

• Increased expenses: The financial burden of the holiday season can worsen financial stress within families. The holiday season often means increased expenses – things like presents, hosting events and attending celebrations can all cause financial strain.

• Increased alcohol consumption: Alcohol consumption often increases during the Christmas season, and can fuel existing violent behaviours.

While alcohol can contribute to an environment where existing violent tendencies are heightened, it should never be considered the cause of someone’s violence.

Police are committed to responding to all forms of family violence, keeping victim-survivors safe and holding perpetrators to account.

Police not only provide safety for victims who make a report, they also refer them to support services, so they can get assistance.

But police advise in an emergency, people need to call triple zero.

Nationwide 24-hour services include 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732; and Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Victoria-wide services are: The Orange Door – find a nearby location by visiting orangedoor.vic.gov.au; Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre, 24-hour service: 1800 015 188; emailing safesteps@safesteps.org.au; or there is a web chat available on weekdays from 9am to midnight at safesteps.org.au/chat.

No to Violence also runs a Men’s Referral Service, helping men who use violence to change their behaviour. They can be contacted on 1300 766 491.

150 member milestone Women’s Health Grampians, WHG’s, Communities of Respect and Equality, CoRE, Alliance has reached 150 members after Budja Budja Aboriginal Co-operative joined recently.

The CoRE Alliance, which commenced 10 years ago, is a partnership of organisations, businesses, clubs and groups led by WHG that share a vision for safe, equal and respectful communities in the Grampians region.

Members commit to a CoRE strategy to prevent violence against women and their children, using it to guide their individual and collective work fostering communities of respect, equality and preventing violence against women.

WHG chief executive Jennie Courtney said it was fitting the alliance celebrated adding its 150th member during the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence campaign.

She said she was delighted to welcome Budja Budja as an organisation that shared WHG’s enthusiasm and commitment to making change.

“We are delighted to welcome Budja Budja as our 150th member – it sits at the heart of the Halls Gap community and already embodies the collaborative values that are such a key part of CoRE. We look forward to working

with our 150th member well into the future,” she said.

Budja Budja Aboriginal Co-operative’s vision is to strengthen and empower its communities through providing culturally safe, quality, holistic health and wellbeing care.

Rebecca Biggs, the manager of Budja Budja’s Social and Emotional Wellbeing Centre, SEWC, said staff strived to provide a safe and welcoming place for healing, with strong social and cultural connections through a dedicated multidisciplinary team.

“We wanted to join the CoRE Alliance as it aligns with our principles and vision of providing safe, respectful and evidence-based services to our communities,” she said.

“Budja Budja strongly supports the collective efforts of all regionally based service providers involved in supporting victim-survivors and their families, and fostering healthy relationships, respect, strong familial and cultural bonds across our mob.”

Ms Courtney said all CoRE Alliance members wanted to do their part to prevent violence in their communities.

“CoRE provides a trusted framework to support the work they want to do in evidence-based ways that suit their specific circumstances,” she said.

ALIGNED: Budja Budja Aboriginal Co-operative is the 150th member to join Women’s Health Grampians Communities of Respect and Equality, CoRE, Alliance. From left, Paigen Muller, Budja Budja, Claire Evans, WHG, and Rebecca Biggs, Budja Budja, acknowledge the milestone.

CoRE Alliance members actively work to prevent sexism, discrimination and violence against all women in our workplaces and communities.

What is CoRE? CoRE is an alliance of organisations, businesses, clubs and groups that are committed to creating safe, equal and respectful communities in the Grampians region.

CoRE is based on the belief that the reach and influence across society of its wide and diverse partnership will help to drive cultural change, and reduce barriers to gender equality and re-frame cultural norms and acceptable behaviour – important steps in preventing violence against women and children.

Being a CoRE member is about committing to taking action.

With the support of Women’s Health Grampians, members review, plan and take steps to promote gender equality within their organisations and through their spheres of influence.

Find out more by visiting our website: whg.org.au

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER FAMILY FUN: Brian Harrison, Oaka Harrison and Andrew Harrison.

Pride in Wotjobaluk celebration

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

W

otjobaluk Nations has marked 20 years since Native Title recognition, Victoria’s first, with a cultural festival at Dimboola’s Horseshoe Bend campgrounds.

With celebratory features for the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk people and the public, Saturday’s Wotjobaluk Nations Festival brought more than 450 community, partners and allies together.

Barenji Gadjin Land Council chair Chris Harrison said the anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on the strength of Wotjobaluk Nations people and the work that continued.

“The 2005 Native Title determination was a defining moment for our people and for Victoria,” he said.

“It acknowledged our enduring connection to country and strengthened the foundation for the cultural, community and caring for country work we lead today.

“Twenty years on, we honour our elders and community who carried this work forward, and we celebrate our culture, our resilience and our future.”

KEEPING COOL: Kelanee Lovett and Savannah Marks enjoy a swim in the river.

The event featured river walks and cultural workshops, language, dance and storytelling workshops, weaving, boomerang painting, bush toy making, clapstick burning and other cultural activities, as well as food, music and creative performances.

An evening light, sound and move-

TOGETHER: From left, Josh Nichols, Beck Haby and Quistis Haby at the Wotjobaluk Nations Festival.

ment story projection brought together Wotjobaluk artists, storytellers, elders and youth, and was created collaboratively with Pink Lake Creative, Dalki Murrup Ceremonial Performance Group, The Dreaming Project, and The Little Projector Company.

Performers included Wergaia/

Wemba Wemba woman Alice Skye, from Horsham, Ngiyampaa singersongwriter Pirritu Brett Lee, and Andy Alberts and the Walkabouts.

BGLC board director Aunty Janine Coombs said the celebration gave her a sense of pride.

“To have Wotjobaluk Nations-cre-

ated dances, and to see the younger generation embrace culture so fully, and to witness that in all its glory, it gives me a real sense of pride,” she said.

“Today’s celebration is about connection to country, culture and community.”

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Centre opens with national prize T

he new National Centre for Environmental Art in Budja Budja-Halls Gap opened with a bang this month as Victorian artist Kate Gorringe-Smith was announced as the major winner of the 2025 WAMA Art Prize.

Ms Gorringe-Smith’s work ‘White faced Heron at Twilight’ took out the $15,000 major acquisitive prize at a ceremony on December 6, with fellow artists Deanne Gilson, Ro Murray and Dolores Skowronski Malloni each receiving $2500 awards of excellence.

Judges picked the winners from 54 finalist works that explored the relationship between art, nature and environmental awareness, with all works now on display at the National Centre for Environmental Art. Visitors to the centre will have an opportunity to vote for a people’s choice award, with the winner to be announced in March.

WAMA chief executive Francesca Valmorbida said the 2025 exhibition marked ‘a significant moment for WAMA’, with the prize presented for the first time within the purpose-built gallery.

Ms Valmorbida said WAMA was Australia’s only institution dedicated to the intersection of art and the environment, and that the National Centre for Environmental Art reflected the organisation’s core purpose to explore art, science and nature in accessible and diverse ways.

“It is incredibly special to see the 2025 WAMA Art Prize hung on the walls of the new National Centre for Environmental Art,” she said.

“The diversity of this year’s finalists

WINNER: Victorian artist Kate Gorringe-Smith’s work, White faced Heron at Twilight, was announced as the winner of the 2025 WAMA Art Prize this month. gives us insight into how contemporary artists are responding to the natural world and the climate crisis.

WAMA is proud to support environmental art and the conversations the artists stimulate.”

WAMA board director and art prize judge Jacqueline Healy said the diversity of the exhibition was reflected in the winning works.

“The standard of entries this year was exceptional. Kate GorringeSmith’s linocut, White-faced Heron at Twilight, will be an important addition to the WAMA collection,” she said.

Ms Gorringe-Smith said winning the major prize was ‘a huge thrill’.

“My art is always about engaging

with the environment, so to win this prize in particular is very special,” she said.

“Birds are our easiest wild animals to see and it is often through our birdlife that we gain a deeper connection and understanding of the environment.”

Ms Gorringe-Smith said the prize would transform her practice.

“It will always be a true highlight in my artistic career as the first major national art prize that I have won. And a prize that I have the most passionate connection with in regard to its support of nature and environmental concerns,” she said.

Ms Gorringe-Smith’s work will join

AWARDED FOR EXCELLENCE: Artist Dolores Skowronski Malloni received a $2500 prize for her entry Grampians Bitter-pea. that of inaugural major prize winner Melissa Smith, who received the acquisitive award in 2021, and Martin King, who received the award in 2023, in the permanent WAMA collection.

The other 53 finalists in the exhibition are available for the public to purchase.

The biennial prize attracts entries from across Australia, with more than 450 submissions received in 2025.

The judging panel for this year’s

prize included RMIT University and Yoonggama First Nations Transdisciplinary Research Cohort’s Vicki Couzens, former RMIT Gallery director and chief curator Suzanne Davies, Australian Print Workshop chief executive and artistic director Anne Virgo, and WAMA board director Jacqueline Healy.

The WAMA Art Prize exhibition is open from until March 8 and can be viewed online at wamafoundation. com.au.

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Community Newsletter Not a ‘luxury’: Period product vending machines installed Our RNH Warracknabeal and Hopetoun teams including (from left) CEO Jenni Masters, Executive Manager Community Services Paula Noble, Hopetoun Campus Manager Angela Naylor and Hopetoun Administration Assistant Tahlia Durie are celebrating the installation of the vending machines.

Menstruation, or having a period, is a natural part of life, with Menstrual Health an important part of sexual and reproductive health.

A lack of access to appropriate period products can have significant negative impacts across many areas of people’s lives. It can affect physical and mental health, and make it difficult to participate in education, employment and social activities.

Despite this, many people cannot afford to buy the period products they need to fully participate in school, work and social activities. Pads and tampons are a necessity, not a luxury, and people should be able to access them whenever and wherever they need them.

Rural Northwest Health is pleased to announce that it now has free period product vending machines installed at its Warracknabeal and Hopetoun campuses, as part of the Victorian Government’s initiative to help end period poverty.

For more information and to stay up to date on new machine locations, visit https://www.vic.gov.au/free-pads-and-tampons-public-places.

Brooke Rentsch PAG Assistant

Sherin Kuttikkatt Registered Nurse

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Fund open for project ideas W

est Wimmera Shire Council is inviting community groups and residents of small towns across the shire to submit project ideas for the State Government’s Tiny Towns Fund.

The program offers up to $50,000 for projects that support local facilities, strengthen community groups, improve shared spaces and encourage visitation.

The council received a request through its Innovation Platform seeking guidance on a Tiny Towns Fund application and is looking to extend assistance to all community groups.

Each town can receive only one allocation, so identifying priority ideas early is important.

Chief executive David Bezuidenhout said the program was an opportunity for smaller communities to progress initiatives that mattered to them.

“Community groups are encouraged to contact council early so we can help with guidance, eligibility questions and general support,” he said.

“This will ensure groups are well prepared to submit their own applications and put forward strong proposals that reflect community needs.”

Eligible project ideas could include improvements to public spaces, upgrades to community facilities, initiatives that celebrate local heritage

and activities that build community connections.

Applications for the Tiny Towns Fund close on February 4.

For further information or to discuss a project idea, people can contact Sarah Ellis or Aaron Shalders at West Wimmera Shire Council by calling 13 99 72 or emailing council@westwimmera.vic.gov.au.

Hindmarsh applications

A Dimboola dog park and Nhill visitor centre upgrades are two projects Hindmarsh Shire Council is proposing to submit applications to the Tiny Town Fund.

The need for a dog park at Dimboola has been raised at various community consultation sessions, with the council now seeking feedback on the conversion of the town’s old tennis courts.

The project aims to provide a safe, fenced area where dogs can exercise and socialise, while enhancing community recreation spaces.

The council is also looking to upgrade the amenities and visitor information centre in Nhill’s Goldsworthy Park, with general improvements to the centre and to the all-abilities bathroom.

For more information about the proposed projects, people can complete the survey response forms for each of the projects on the council’s ‘have your say’ website.

Submissions close on January 9.

CELEBRATIONS: The achievements and contributions of West Wimmera Health Service staff were celebrated at its annual meeting last month. Board chair Gary Simpson paid tribute to former chair Katherine Colbert for her nine years of service, the retirement of director Jo Martin, and welcomed new directors Marcell Judkins and Ryan Arthur. Staff service milestones across nursing, clinical, administrative, and support roles included: Janine Clark, 40 years; Craig Henley, 35 years; and Leonie Graham, 25 years. Leslie Robinson, who recently won the Outstanding Contribution to Rural Allied Health Award, was honoured for the achievement and for her 25 years in diabetes education.

Ararat council commits to road projects Ararat Rural City Council has reopened a section of Mount William Road to regular traffic after sealing it.

The two-kilometre section between Gordon’s Bridge Road and Yalla-YPoora Road is currently undergoing a $6.2-million rehabilitation, and was smoothed and upgraded in an effort to provide a safer and more comfortable drive for locals and visitors.

Mayor Bob Sanders said the council worked hard to complete the upgrade stage before harvest season to ensure minimal disruption for the community.

The next phase of the Mount William Road upgrade, jointly funded by the Federal Government’s Heavy Vehicle

Safety and Productivity Program and the council, will focus on an abutting five-kilometre road section to Armstrong Road.

Other major road projects planned by the council in coming months include: rebuilding the main bridge crossing of Buangor-Ben Nevis Road bridge, 1.2km south of Warrak, with closures starting January 12; strengthening a bridge on the same road at Billy Billy Creek; constructing new kerb and driveways at Webb Street, Ararat this week; building raised pedestrian crossings on High Street, Barkly Street and Vincent Street in Ararat; building a new deck on McCrows Road bridge at

Westmere, with works planned to start in February after harvest.

Cr Sanders said the council would notify directly affected businesses and residents of impending works and interruptions, and would give the broader community updates through regular communication channels.

“Over the next few months, our rural communities will continue to see significant road infrastructure improvements,” he said.

“While some road and bridge works will require short-term detours, the long-term benefits for safety and accessibility are going to be big.”

YARRIAMBIACK NEWS DECEMBER 2025 NEXT COUNCIL MEETING: 28 JANUARY 2025

Have Your Say Proposal for the Construction of a Private Hangar at the Hopetoun Aerodrome The Council is seeking public input on its proposal to permit the construction of a private hangar on Council property and to arrange a ground lease at market rates.

Proposal to Sell Land – Former Depot Sites in Hopetoun Two former depot sites in Hopetoun have been identified as excess to requirements and are proposed for consideration for sale.

Long Term Financial Sustainability Review Council has completed a Long Term Financial Sustainability Review for the next 10 years.

Proposed gifting of 2 Wood St, Rupanyup On 10 December 2025, Yarriambiack Shire Council endorsed in principle to commence the community engagement process to gift the land at 2 Wood Street Rupanyup (known as the Dunmunkle State Emergency Services (SES) Unit Building), to the State Emergency Services.

Find out more & have your say via our website

Procurement Opportunities Sale of Glass Pulveriser (Crusher) Expression of Interest (EOI 011-2026) Council is seeking expressions of interest for the sale of an Andela (GP-05L) Glass Pulveriser (Crusher), by way of public tender. Submissions close 2.00pm on Thursday, 18 December 2025.

Supply of Plant & Equipment (Wet & Dry Hire) and Labour Hire - Panel of Suppliers – Request for Tender (C365-2026) Council is seeking tenders from appropriately experienced Suppliers to form a panel of suppliers for the supply of plant and equipment (wet and dry) and shortterm labour hire to support Council’s Capital Works Program as needed at various locations across the Shire.

For more information visit www.yarriambiack.vic.gov.au/Business/Tenders

The Warracknabeal Library will be closed from Wednesday 24 December to Friday 2nd January, including self-service.

Holiday waste collections The scheduled Warracknabeal kerbside bin collection for 25th December will occur on the 24th of December instead, meaning residents will need to put bins out for collection a day earlier. All other kerbside collections remain unaffected.

The Warracknabeal, Rupanyup and Hopetoun transfer stations will be closed on the 25th December. All other transfer station operating hours remain unaffected around Christmas and New Year.

Residents are also reminded that transfer stations only operate for the first 2 scheduled operating hours on days declared as Total Fire Bans. In the event of the declaration of a catastrophic fire danger rating, transfer stations will be closed.

Residents are advised of the following operating hours for our Warracknabeal office these holidays: Fri 19th Dec - closed from 11.30am Closed from Wed 24 Dec to Fri 2 Jan

Contact Us: P | (03) 5398 0100 E | info@yarriambiack.vic.gov.au W | yarriambiack.vic.gov.au | Be social - like us on facebook and follow us on LinkedIn Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Swift performs at Taylors

Willaura pool opening nears

O

ne of Australian country music’s most recognisable figures, Andrew Swift, will perform in Warracknabeal on Saturday, January 10.

Horsham Country Music is excited to attract an artist of Swift’s calibre to Taylors Palace Hotel, Warracknabeal Swift will be supported by special guest Michael Honan.

With four Australian Recording Industry Association, ARIA, number one albums to his name, more than 8.3 million streams, and the face of Spotify’s Fresh Country in February, Swift will perform hits from across all his albums, including his fourth studio album, ‘Lucky Stars’.

Swift’s innovative country sound fuses gritty soundscapes of guitar and synth with stadium-sized backbeats, played with an ethos of part victory lap, part love letter, and all heart.

From flipping burgers to packing theatres, the multi-award-winning artist has played the long game – and it has paid off.

Described by Country Update as ‘an Australian songwriting heavyweight’, Swift has won three Country Music Association of Australia Golden Guitars, including the prestigious 2023 Male Artist of the Year.

He has toured with Australian stars The Wolfe Brothers and Shannon Noll, played the country’s biggest festivals, and performed at Nashville’s CMA Fest.

Meanwhile, Honan is an Australian country music artist inspired by renowned musicians like Larry Fleet, Alan Jackson and Keith Urban.

WARRACKNABEAL BOUND: Australian country music icon Andrew Swift will perform in Warracknabeal early next year, supported by special guest Michael Honan, below.

A perfectionist by nature, the Warrnambool-born and raised singer discovered his passion early – picking up the guitar at age six in a country music household – and his creative spark was further ignited during the COVID pandemic when he began posting covers on Facebook, gaining strong support.

In 2024, Honan won the Ridin’ Starts competition, earning him a performance slot at the Ridin’ Hearts Festival, where he played on marquee stages, met industry leaders, and received mentorship opportunities from music titans.

This year he was selected to perform at CMC Rocks 2025 as part of

the Back Forty lineup, showcasing his music as an emerging artist, followed by an eight-week trip to Nashville, where he wrote and recorded new music and performed his largest show to date at the ‘Country Goes Global’ showcase at Luke Combs’ Category 10 bar – as part of CMA Fest – the biggest country music event in Nashville.

Honan comes off the back of performing at BIG SOUND 2025 in Brisbane, and Groundwater Country Music Festival, on the Gold Coast festival.

People can buy tickets, $35 for the show, at Taylors Palace Hotel, Warracknabeal, by calling 5394 1097.

The Willaura Outdoor Pool is on track to open for the 2025-26 summer season, with Ararat Rural City Council aiming to open the facility by December 24.

The news follows positive developments associated with maintenance works at the pool, with a known leak, which the council previously believed to be a major issue, assessed and deemed smaller than initially feared.

Repair works are underway at the pool and will allow it to open this summer.

Once open, the Willaura pool is expected to operate for the remainder of summer in line with its normal operating hours.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison apologised to Willaura residents for the delayed opening and acknowledged the impact of the pool’s closure on local families and community groups who use it regularly.

Dr Harrison said the works were necessary to ensure the community could continue to enjoy the facility safely and comfortably.

“Council understands how much the Willaura pool means to local families, young people, and visitors, especially during the hotter months, and we are committed to keeping this facility in good condition for the long term,” he said.

“Thank you to residents for your patience and understanding while this important maintenance is completed, and we look forward to seeing people back in the water this summer.”

People can find more information about the confirmed opening date and operating hours on the council’s website and social media channels in the coming weeks.

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Group seeking Have your say on Sparrows Lane input from all

E

xpressions of interest are now open for Ararat Rural City Council’s new Disability Action Plan Working Group.

The group will help develop a fouryear plan to improve access and inclusion for people with disabilities across the municipality.

The council is inviting community members and representatives from organisations with lived experience or professional expertise in disability inclusion to help shape the plan and identify practical actions the council can take as a service provider, employer and community leader.

The Disability Action Plan Working Group will bring together up to 12 members, including people with disabilities, carers, advocates and representatives from organisations with specialist knowledge in inclusive practices.

The group will meet regularly across the next 12 to 18 months to consider community feedback, review the council’s current practices and create a draft Disability Action Plan.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the working group was part of the council’s commitment to making Ararat Rural City more inclusive.

“This is about listening carefully and acting in partnership with people who know, first-hand, what helps and what gets in the way,” he said.

“Council wants to build a community where everyone can participate,

Tim Harrison feel welcome, and have confidence that local decisions reflect the experiences of people with disability, their families, and the organisations that support them.”

Community members and organisational representatives interested in joining the Disability Action Plan Working Group can complete an online expression of interest form on the Engage Ararat website, engage.ararat. vic.gov.au/eoi-disability-action-planworking-group, before Friday.

Alternative formats or support to complete the form are available by contacting Ararat Rural City Council’s customer service team in an effort to ensure that people of all abilities can take part in the engagement process.

Ararat Rural City Council is calling on community members to share their final views on a proposal to name a currently un-named laneway adjoining 118 Barkly Street in Ararat as Sparrows Lane.

The proposed name relates to an 1867 event that saw the ceremonial release of 14 English house sparrows from the former Bull and Mouth Hotel balcony at the site – drawing public interest and making Ararat one of the earliest locations of bird acclimatisation in Australia.

Historical accounts from the community described how townspeople followed the birds through Ararat’s streets, with the event becoming part of the town’s folklore.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said architect and original Ararat resident Adam Haddow would commission Australian artist Anna-Wili Highfield to create a series of 14 bronze sparrows, each representing one of the original birds, if the naming proposal was successful.

The installation will include nine sparrows perched on the site’s Barkly Street façade overlooking the laneway, while five more will be placed across the town, forming a ‘sparrow trail’ that encourage people to rediscover Ararat’s history in an engaging way.

The council will also install a heritage plaque to interpret the story for residents and visitors, highlighting the site’s ties to the 19th-century acclimatisation movement.

Dr Harrison said the proposal honoured the community’s creative and historical spirit through storytelling and placemaking.

Bronze sparrow statues will be created under a plan to rename a street in Ararat Sparrows Lane.

“Sparrows Lane brings to life a piece of Ararat’s past that many people have never heard about,” he said.

“It’s a wonderful reminder that our town has always been curious, connected, and proud of its place in history. This project combines art, heritage, and community in a way

that adds real character to our civic heart.”

The proposed naming is now available for community feedback on www.engage.ararat.vic.gov. au until January 10 to help the council finalise its decision early in the new year.

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Scholarships awarded to health staff

T

en East Grampians Health Service staff were awarded scholarships to complete further studies in their chosen field.

Recipients were awarded at the EGHS annual general meeting last month.

Since 2009, the EGHS Building for the Future Foundation, BFF, has awarded scholarships to staff and has now reached a value of more than $700,000.

Scholarships presented at the service’s annual general meeting were from the foundation, as well as Epworth Healthcare, the Angela Laidlaw Clinical Scholarship and the Ord Family Scholarship.

The BFF made available scholarships up to the value of $30,000 this year to ensure the long-term viability of services, with the recipients Shonna Stewart and Joshua Ramsdell, who will both undertake a Bachelor of Nursing.

Kate Pitcher was the recipient of the BFF $20,000 scholarship to support an EGHS employee to complete a master course.

She will undertake a Master of Leadership and Management in Healthcare.

The BFF also made available three scholarships in the name of Joe Kapp up to the value of $15,000.

The recipients of the 2025 Joe Kapp scholarships were Leslie Pyke, who will undertake a Diploma in Leadership and Management, Hannah Jennings, a Women and Leadership Australia Impact Program, and David Romeril, a

Certificate IV in Leadership and Management.

Epworth Healthcare made available a scholarship up to the value of $15,000, to ensure improvements in the long-term viability of obstetric services.

The recipient was Bree Lowe, who will undertake a Graduate Diploma of Midwifery.

The Angela Laidlaw Clinical Scholarship, donated by the Laidlaw family in memory of Angela, creates opportunities for staff working in clinical areas to be supported in recognition of effort and where they demonstrate commitment to study in addition to the usual requirements of their role.

This year’s recipient was Marnie Skiller, who will undertake a Graduate Certificate of Perioperative Nursing.

Keith Little also provided two scholarships in the name of Ray and Wayne Ord. Decades after receiving a free university education degree, Mr Little gave the proceeds of the sale of a block of land to EGHS to fund scholarships.

The recipients of the 2025 Ray and Wayne Ord Scholarship were Neen Neen Wai Ju, who will undertake a Graduate Certificate of Perioperative Nursing, and Angela Nagpal, a Certificate IV in Human Resources Management.

A further five BFF $500 scholarships were awarded to secondary students who are studying in a health-related field: Teyjeshwar Thandi, Bachelor of Radiography and Medical Imaging; Miki Her-

GRATEFUL FOR SUPPORT: Left, East Grampians Health Service Building for the Future Foundation Trustee Graeme Foster is pictured with BFF scholarship awardee Angela Nagpal.

Below, Geoff Laidlaw is pictured with Angela Laidlaw Clinical Scholarship awardee Marnie Skiller. mosilla, Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science; Emma Vallance, Diploma of Nursing; Seth Dairo, Diploma of Nursing; and Kiara Davis, Bachelor of Nursing.

EGHS board chair Cameron Evans congratulated all staff who were awarded scholarships and wished them well in their studies.

“East Grampians Health Service is grateful for the support of the Building for the Future Foundation, Epworth Healthcare, the Laidlaw family and the Ord family, in enabling our staff to pursue further study and improve their skills, which ultimately benefits the health service and the community,” he said.

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B orn on this day in 1974, was which American actress, best-known for her roles in American Horror Story, Ocean’s Eight and Ratched?

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Cliff Richard starred in the film Summer Holiday in 1963.

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From The Weekly Advertiser archives: December 15, 2005 –

The Signposts program was supporting parents of children with developmental delay or intellectual disability, by giving new advice and demonstrating new techniques. A two-year project rolled out with Federal Government funding and received praise for its methods. Noah’s Ark co-ordinator at Stawell, Gill Friemanis, is pictured with members of the support group.

10 years ago: December 16, 2015

A book written by Goroke author Gerald Murnane was among 21 works in the running for the 2016 Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards. Murnane’s work ‘Something for the Pain’ was on a shortlist of six in a non-fiction category. Winners of the five award categories – fiction, non-fiction, drama, poetry and writing for young adults – each received $25,000 and went on to contest the $100,000 Victorian Prize for Literature.

Five years ago: December 16, 2020

This day in 1927 saw which Australian cricket prodigy

score 118 in his first-class debut for New South Wales against South Australia at Adelaide Oval?

4.

Daylight saving is part of summer in some parts of Australia. How many time zones are there in January across Australia – two, three, five or seven?

5.

I n the song, The Twelve Days of Christmas, how many presents are given in total?

6.

Who was the lead singer of 1960s band The Seekers?

7.

W hich boy band did Justin Timberlake launch from?

8.

W hich villain appears in the stories ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ and ‘The Three Little Pigs’?

9.

W hat’s the name of the flap that stops food from going down the ‘wrong tube’ when people swallow?

New owners of Murtoa’s historic Marma Gully Hotel were set to launch a resurrection of the iconic building with a re-enactment of a photograph celebrating the end of the First World War. Melbourne siblings Geoff Summers and Thelma Wakelam called on people from across the Murtoa district to join them for the photo, a sausage sizzle and drinks. The hotel was built in 1913 and the original photo taken in 1919, the re-enactment celebrating the century between.

10. O ther than the Bible and Shakespeare, who is the best-

One year ago: December 18, 2024

Answers: 1. Sarah Paulson. 2. Greece. 3. Don Bradman. 4. Five.

5. 364. 6. Judith Durham. 7. NSYNC. 8. The Big Bad Wolf. 9.

Epiglottis. 10. Agatha Christie – she is best-known for her 66 detective novels and 14 short story collections, as well as the world’s longest-running play, ‘The Mousetrap’. 11. Belgium. 12.

Cacao beans. 13. Goldfinger.

Warracknabeal Secondary College year-eight students were fundraising for their 12-day trip to Japan. They aimed to make $20,000 to subsidise the trip’s cost, with meat raffles, bake sales, and by donations from businesses and community groups. The college’s students learnt Japanese as part of their curriculum, and trips to the country were a regular occurrence up to a decade before.

selling novelist of all time?

11. W hich country invented French Fries?

12. W hich food was once used as currency by the Aztecs?

13. P remiering on this day in London in 1964, was which

James Bond film, starring Sean Connery and Honor Blackman?

FIVE-DAY forecast Thursday

41° Sunny.

Friday

39°

Partly cloudy.

Saturday

31°

Partly cloudy.

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Sunday

25°

Showers.

Monday

25°

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ARIES Lucky Colour: Grey Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 4, 1, 5, 9 Lotto Numbers: 5, 14, 23, 32, 39, 41 Success is on the horizon as past efforts begin to pay off. This could be a very intense period for love – stay loyal in relationships, as dishonesty may lead to trouble.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20) Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 7, 1, 6, 3 Lotto Numbers: 7, 16, 25, 30, 35, 43 Calculated risks yield high rewards if you act with confidence and clarity.

However, emotional changes might make decision-making tricky. Know what you truly want before moving on to new opportunities.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) Lucky Colour: Yellow Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 4, 2, 2, 11 Lotto Numbers: 4, 13, 22, 31, 38, 45 It’s not the ideal time for emotional decisions, as feelings might cloud your judgement. Financial improvements are ahead, but be cautious of friends seeking favours – ensure their intentions align with yours.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) Lucky Colour: Yellow Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 4, 2, 2, 11 Lotto Numbers: 4, 13, 22, 31, 38, 45 It’s not the ideal time for emotional decisions, as feelings might cloud your judgement. Financial improvements are ahead, but be cautious of friends seeking favours – ensure their intentions align with yours.

LEO (July 23 - August 22) Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 3, 6, 4, 3 Lotto Numbers: 2, 11, 29, 33, 36, 43 Keeping your emotions in check will help balance relationships and improve communication. Stay mindful of your health, particularly your diet and alcohol consumption. Positive news in your career is on its way.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23) Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 9, 2, 7, 1 Lotto Numbers: 9, 18, 27, 34, 41, 45 Travel plans bring variety and enjoyment. People are more likely to align with your goals now, and past kindnesses are set to be repaid, strengthening connections with those around you.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) Lucky Colour: Magenta Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 5, 1 Lotto Numbers: 8, 17, 26, 35, 40, 44 Travel opportunities look promising, offering excitement and intrigue. However, be cautious of overly ambitious ventures; sticking to what you know will yield better results.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 2, 2, 4, 6 Lotto Numbers: 2, 11, 20, 29, 38, 42 Many of your issues vanish, making this an excellent time for holidays or longdistance travel. However, patience with romantic relationships is critical to keeping things harmonious.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20) Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1, 9, 6, 4 Lotto Numbers: 1, 10, 19, 33, 37, 40 Unexpected visitors or trips could surprise you. Discuss challenges with your partner to ensure understanding. Success is likely in any endeavour you choose to pursue.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19) Lucky Colour: Dark Green Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 3, 4, 1, 2 Lotto Numbers: 3, 4, 12, 21, 30, 39 Keeping your temper under control is essential this week. Pay special attention to close relationships and carefully plan travel arrangements to avoid mishaps.

Getting in touch with The Weekly Advertiser 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 The publisher and general manager is Brendan O’Loughlin, C/- 2 Stawell Road, Horsham, for Ace Radio Broadcasters Pty Ltd, ACN 064 882 042. The Weekly Advertiser is a free paper printed by Newsprinters Pty Ltd, 1 McKoy Street, West Wodonga, and distributed by regional distributors and Australia Post.

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19) Lucky Colour: Mauve Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 3, 2, 4, 8 Lotto Numbers: 3, 12, 21, 30, 31, 44 This period is marked by significant change. Embrace new ideas, and your efforts will be rewarded. Missed opportunities may resurface, and finances should ease during this time.

i

PISCES (February 20 - March 20) Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 1, 5, 6, 2 Lotto Numbers: 1, 10, 19, 23, 24, 32 Expect lucky breaks from unexpected sources. Adapt your expectations to the current situation, and don’t hesitate to consult experts for advice.

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The Carey Covers team thank you and the community for over 40 years of support.

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Please note that we will cease operations on December 19

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

PUZZLEs

Brought to you by Thank you to our loyal and supportive community for 50 years.

Wouldn’t be possible without you!

Brought to you by

C CHRISTMAS O S S W O R D

Which One Is Different?

Which picture is different from the rest?

Thank Trick you to our loyal Santa’s Party

and supportive Which Christmas decoration from the top picture for 50 years. has Santa dropped incommunity the bottom picture?

*

Wouldn’t be possible without yo

To find Santa’s greeting See 35 Down & 32 Across

Sudoku

1 6

Word Trail

4

ACROSS 3 See 50 Across & 6 Across (3) 5 Loves (6) 6 See 50 Across & 3 Across (5) 9 What a star did (5) 11 Drinks (7) 13 Children’s favourite things (4) 14 Twelve Days ... Christmas (2) 15 Raise one’s glass (5) 18 Child’s nurse (5) 19 No room at it (3) 20 Party (2) 22 Written on Christmas cards (9) 25 Santa’s cave (3) 27 Used when cooking meat (4) Christmas Pyramid 28 Savoury or sweet ones (4) 29 Glad (6) Starting with A,aadd letter and Starting with A, add letteraand shuffle the shuffle the Night before (3) letters to make a new word each time, until you letters to make a new word each time, 30 32 * (9) reach WREATHS until you reach WREATHS: 36 Santa holds onto them (5) 39 Pleasingly dainty (4) 40 God (Hebrew) (2) 42 Santa’s call: See 10 Down & 3 Down (2,2,2)

9 5

6

8 7 1 9 1 5

8 4

5

2

2 7 3

6

Christmas Pyramid 4 1

A

Starting at the highlighted letter, move in any direction (but use each letter only once) to find a four-word phrase (5,2,5,4) which will tell you why Santa is looking puzzled.

12 Tops of Special Orders? (2) 16 Miracle ... 34th Street (2) 17 Decorated ... of shortbread (4) 18 Christmasmas carol (4) 20 Designated one in charge of a car (6) 43 Service (4) 21 ‘Do you ... what I ...’ (3) 44 What glows on a reindeer? 22 Given the green light (2) (3,4) 23 Type of pole (3) 46 Where does the star go on 24 Excesses (5) the tree? (3) 25 ‘A Christmas Carol’ author 47 Gold (Heraldry) (2) (7) 48 Type of log (4) 26 Poles apart? (init) (2) 50 Christmas song: See 29 The real star (5) 3 Across & 6 Across (4’1,3,5) 31 Victorians (abb) (4) 33 For Christmas dinner (3) DOWN 34 20 Down should be 1 Exclamation of surprise (3) teetotal (init) (2) 2 Thanks (2) 35 * (5) 3 After Christmas day (6,3) 37 Prepare the table (3) 4 You (poetic) (2) 38 See 42 Across & 10 Down 6 It can be roasted (8) (2) 7 Live high on it? (3) 41 Behold! (2) 8 Leonard (abb) (3) 45 Small child’s toy (5) 10 See 42 Across & 38 Down (2) 49 Before noon (init) (2)

Solutions

Puzzles and pagination supplied by Auspac Media

Silhouettes

Of these six silhouettes, only two match exactly. Can you find which ones?

A

B

C

D

E

W R E A T H S

Christmas Crossword ACROSS: 3 Boy, 5 Adores, 6 Child, 9 Shone, 11 Eggnogs, 13 Toys, 14 Of, 15 Toast, 18 Nanny, 19 Inn, 20 Do, 22 Greetings, 25 Den, 27 Foil, 28 Pies, 29 Joyful, 30 Eve, 32 Christmas, 36 Reins, 39 Cute, 40 El, 42 Ho, 43 Mass, 44 Red nose, 46 Top, 47 Or, 48 Yule, 50 Mary’s.

DOWN: 1 Cor, 2 Ta, 3 Boxing Day, 4 Ye, 6 Chestnut, 7 Hog, 8 Len, 10 Ho, 12 SO, 16 On, 17 Tins, 18 Noel, 20 Driver, 21 See, 22 Go, 23 Icy, 24 Gluts, 25 Dickens, 26 NS, 29 Jesus, 31 Vics, 33 Ham, 34 TT, 35 Merry, 37 Set, 38 Ho, 41 Lo, 45 Dolly, 49 am.

Sudoku Word Trail: 8 4 9 6 2 7 1 5 3 Where is North Pole 2 5 6 3 8 1 7 9 4 3 1 7 4 9 5 2 8 6 Santa’s Party Trick 6 2 8 7 3 9 5 4 1 No.7 4 7 1 2 5 6 9 3 8 Christmas Pyramid 5 9 3 8 1 4 6 7 2 1 8 5 9 4 2 3 6 7 a, as, sea, east, stare, hearts, wreaths 9 6 4 1 7 3 8 2 5 (There could be more than 7 3 2 5 6 8 4 1 9 one solution) Which One Is Different?

Pic A (Fingers uncoloured) Silhouettes B and F

2

F

One way is: a, as, sea, east, stare, hearts, wreaths.

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n i W MERRY CHRISTMAS

Colouring Competition

Horsham

Horsham

Kids! Colour in Santa & His Sleigh for your chance to win a prize pack!

Send your entries to: ‘Christmas Colouring Comp’, The Weekly Advertiser, PO Box 606, Horsham 3402 or drop into our office at 2 Stawell Road, Horsham.

Competition ends Friday, December 19, 11.59pm. Winners announced Monday, December 22, 2025. Competition includes 2 age catagories - must be 7 or under, or between 8 and 14 years of age to be eligible to win.

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Page 40

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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Celebration of high achievers

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

G

raduating year-12 students across the state are considering their pathways for next year amid celebrations of Victorian Certificate of Education results, released on Thursday.

With a completion rate of 97.3 per cent statewide, 65,586 students completed their VCE. Wimmera Lutheran College principal Jason Przibilla said while the school community was celebrating the achievements of its graduating students, it was also ensuring all students were set on a pathway.

“It’s about making sure students get down the path they want to go down,” he said.

“ATAR is important, but we always look at if they are going to get to where they need to get to for the next stage of life.”

Mr Przibilla said this year’s year-12 cohort of 43, the college’s largest yet, was a tight-knit group.

“Their first year of secondary school was in the first COVID-19 year of 2020, so they had a challenging start, and to see them rise through that and get through the way they have as a group has been fantastic,” he said.

“We’re also celebrating the fantastic efforts of dux Cadi Streeter and proxime accessit Samuel Hahn – they’ve both worked exceptionally hard to get to where they’ve got to, and we’ve had a number of students get over 80.”

Cadi scored 92.35 and would like to study for a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at Adelaide, while Samuel scored 91.95 and is eyeing a Bachelor of Engineering at RMIT. Samuel achieved a perfect study score of 50 in general maths under teacher Joel Beggs, who said it was a first for one of his students.

“I’ve had a few high scores, but not this,” he said.

“This year’s cohort was really strong and really collaborative as well.

“I think Sam’s hard work was what got him there, just sheer bloody-mindedness. He was very determined to get there, and he did – a credit to him.”

Horsham College’s Agnes Cibi, who is looking to study biomedical science at Monash and ultimately medicine, scored 94.1.

Alexandra Taylor, Paige Thompson and Ella Thompson each scored 90 or above.

“ATAR is important, but we always look at if they are going to get to where they need to get to for the next stage of life”

– Jason Przibilla

College principal Meg Woolford said the school community was proud of its graduating students.

“We had 76 students sit exams, and we’re incredibly proud of all of them, and of the other 60 who chose other pathways as well,” she said.

“I want to acknowledge the work of the students, the staff and the families – it’s through collaboration and high expectations that we’re able to support our students to achieve their best and to go on to amazing things.”

Horsham’s St Brigid’s College principal Gerald Raven said the graduating class had received good results.

“We’re extremely proud of the cohort of 2025, they’ve done exceptionally well with their results this year,” he said.

Continued page 44

WIMMERA LUTHERAN COLLEGE: Dux Cadi Streeter and proxime accessit Samuel Hahn.

Edenhope College dux Charlotte Henderson

HORSHAM COLLEGE: Dux Agnes Cibi, front, with high achievers Alexandra Taylor, left, Ella Thompson and Paige Thompson, right, who each scored an ATAR of 90 or above; and scoring 80 or above were, from top left: Samuel Jakobi, James Officer, Ada Binney and Macey Turgoose; Dusty Schellens, Olivia Tepper, Madison Smith and Kassidy Blair; Christian Macalinga and Grace Borgas; and Toby Lakin and Zane Joseph. Lilly Weir, Buzz Brennan, Hanxi Wu and Zoe Brennan also scored 80 or above.

Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Murtoa College dux Adelle Weidemann

THE WEEKLY ADVERTISER WOULD LIKE TO CONGRATULATE ALL STUDENTS ON COMPLETING THE 2025 SCHOOL YEAR AND WISH THEM ALL THE BEST FOR 2026 www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au Wednesday, December 17, 2025

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

The Weekly Advertiser

@theweeklyaddy Page 41

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Congratulations Class of 2025

Nirvan S Dezi C Jude B Oliver M Aiden N Joshua H Zac M Oscar N

Christian E Angus N Kyren P Xavier S Brodie F Leti T Kynan L Ethan R Zachary H

Maxiene L Tess W Mia N Shivansh B Nikolaos D Jacob R Chase B Leah M Tadhg M

Cadi S VCE Dux

Natalie C Jess D Stephanie W Zara N Cadi S Jaya M Evie S Regan B

Swathi S Prue H Rhianna W James P Samuel H Zara W Lexie H Isabelle B

Samuel H VCE Proxime Accessit

Wimmera Lutheran College is incredibly proud of the efforts of all Year 12 students.

The College wishes the Class of 2025 all the best as they begin the next chapter of their lives.

Providing a future focused Christian education from Foundation to Year 12 Dimboola - Horsham - Nhill Page 42

www.wlc.vic.edu.au

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

END OF SCHOOL

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Collaborative re-design at Rainbow

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

R

ainbow’s school community is reaping the benefits of a collaborative school re-design, which has retained its heritage building while modernising the campus.

Principal Colleen Petschel said the project was six years in the making, with builders arriving on site in May last year.

“We got the money in 2019 and there was COVID-19,” she said.

“The building works started in May, 2024. Our secondary component of the school was demolished, and then we got a STEM science building.

“They refurbished our heritage building to become an admin block and then we got a senior arts building, which was opened in April.

“Then two weeks afterwards, after we had a big Dine with Wine celebration to farewell our hall, the hall was demolished and stage two started, which is a music media centre, and then a sports store and some toilets.”

The 2016-17 State Budget’s school pride and sports fund allocated $350,000 to the college, while upgrade and modernisation funding saw $11.161-million allocated in the 2020-21 State Budget with a further $2.7-million in 2023.

Ms Petschel said the college’s new basketball court was a

“When we were going through the actual building work of stage one, all the senior classes were actually crammed into our hall because we didn’t want to spend money on portables, which were then going to disappear”

WELCOME SPACE: Rainbow P-12 College year-9 students, from left, James Fuller, Amaya Eckermann, Giaan Eckermann and Annika Petschel enjoy the new refurbished school.

– Colleen Petschel

‘game-changer’. “The students absolutely love playing basketball out there on our huge, very, very popular basketball court with the roof over the top,” she said.

“There’s also a year seven to nine common area, and then there’s a year 10 to 12 area, and it’s their space.”

The college’s furniture was chosen by company BFX, which specialises in school and office furniture.

“They were absolutely brilliant to work with,” Ms Petschel said.

“We had a consultant come up for a day and he talked to all staff and students, so the furniture is a collective effort from everyone.

“We’ve tried to mix it up. We’ve got kind of different chairs, different tables to suit different learning styles.”

Ms Petschel said the senior students made sacrifices during the construction process.

“When we were going through

the actual building work of stage one, all the senior classes were actually crammed into our hall because we didn’t want to spend money on portables, which were then going to disappear,” she said.

“It was wasted money, so we were able to pour all the money into the construction and refurbishment.

“But the big change has been that the hall was noisy and chaotic, and now with all the windows and the doors double-glazed, the first thing the kids noticed was how quiet and calm it was.

“It’s just a lovely place to work and teach.”

OLD AND NEW: Rainbow P-12 College redevelopment showcases the heritage building among new facilities.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

YOUR

FUTURE

ISN’T DEFINED BY YOUR ATAR

Navigate life after school with Skillinvest.

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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Page 43

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Students discover pathways From page 41 “People have achieved the outcomes that they were hoping to achieve, so we’re very excited for everybody,” Mr Raven said.

“Our dux is our college captain as well, and she’s done a fantastic job throughout the year, not just in her academics but also in leading the school, so she should be very proud.

“Our runner-up dux also received an excellent result.”

Maddie Carracher scored 92.9 and said she aims to study medicine.

“My ATAR was pretty much what I expected,” she said.

“I hope it will get me into medicine next year, I’m just not sure where. I’ll see how it plays out. I’m glad to start the next chapter.”

Liam Avery scored 90.75 and said he was happy with his result.

“I’m happy, I can do whatever I want with it, but I think I’ll do a gap year, because I’m not fully sure what I want to do yet,” he said.

At Marian College, Ararat, Bradley Carter scored 95.5, with special mentions of Molly Walker-Sutton and Maddison Rodger, while all students who undertook the VCE VM pathway either successfully completed their course or secured employment during the year.

Stawell Secondary College dux was Sasha Woltjen, who also achieved the highest results in English, food studies and general maths. Clara Thompson achieved the highest result in biology; Zali Harrison, business management

Warracknabeal Secondary College dux Benjamin Holland

Marian College dux Bradley Carter

ST BRIGID’S COLLEGE: 2025 dux Maddie Carracher and proxime accessit Liam Avery with graduating year-12 students.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER and legal studies; Cid Logan, Chinese language, culture and society and maths methods; Seth Manns, EAL; Angel Boothroyd, hospitality VCE VET; Ella Cassidy, physical education; Joseph De Leon, physics; and Olivia Rivera, psychology.

Warracknabeal Secondary College’s dux was Benjamin Holland, scoring

92.25; Dimboola Memorial Secondary College, Rian Pyers; Rainbow P-12 College, Zander Eckermann; Donald High School, Abby Griffiths, 87.55; Edenhope College, Charlotte Henderson; Murtoa P-12 College, Adelle Weidemann 85.05, and vocational major dux, Bella Noonan.

More than 15,300 students received

at least one study score of 40 or higher, while a record 664 students received a maximum study score of 50.

Increasing from last year, 487 schools offered the VCE Vocational Major this year compared with 477 last year, with 9777 students completing the VCE VM, an increase of 13.4 per cent on last year.

Dimboola Memorial Secondary College dux Rian Pyers

Congratulations to the Class of 2025!

The Murtoa College community is celebrating the remarkable achievement of all 20 Year 12 students, each of whom successfully completed their senior secondary pathway – earning a VCE, VCE VM or VPC certificate.

Special Congratulations: 2025 Dux, Adelle Weidemann Outstanding ATAR of 85.05 an achievement that reflects her commitment, resilience and passion for learning.

VCE Vocational Major Dux, Bella Noonan Bella was also awarded South West TAFE’s Beauty Trainee of the Year.

Median study score of 31 is an incredible result for our small school.

Phone: (03) 5385 2381 We are a

COMMUNITY

We are

INCLUSIVE

We are

RESPECTFUL

We have

INTEGRITY

Email: murtoa.co@education.vic.gov.au Address: Webb Street, Murtoa VIC 3390 murtoacollege.vic.edu.au

Page 44

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

END OF SCHOOL

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Gifts for preps

The Weekly Advertiser photographer PAUL CARRACHER caught up with 2026 foundation students during their visit to Horsham Primary School last week. The youngsters shared what they are most looking forward to in their first year of school.

Maverick Clark I don’t really know, but I want to have fun.

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2 20

Billy Rentsch Learning new things.

Sophie Chamberlain Playing with my buddy.

Grace Murray Playing with my friends.

Jordan Gross Playing with my friends.

Next year’s prep students will receive a bag full of free and fun books to kickstart their love of reading and learning.

Education Minister Ben Carroll shared the titles of next year’s books, which will be provided to about 65,000 government school students.

The Prep Bags will include five children’s books, selected by a panel of experts, to spark a lifelong love of reading and to lift students’ literacy outcomes.

Each prep student will receive: • Chooks in Dinner Suits – written by Diane Jackson Hill and illustrated by Craig Smith.

• The Concrete Garden – written and illustrated by Bob Graham.

• Frank’s Red Hat – written and illustrated by Sean E Avery.

• The Bin Monster – written by Annabelle Hale.

• Sharing – written by Aunty Fay Muir and Sue Lawson and illustrated by Leanne Mulgo Watson The books will also be produced in Braille, with tactile illustrations by the Statewide Vision Resource Centre to support students who are blind.

Mr Carroll said the prep bags initiative, first launched in 2019, supported children’s literacy by giving families access to highquality stories suitable for children aged four to six.

More than 2.2-million books have been delivered through the initiative so far.

“We’re helping families with the cost of living and giving every prep student the chance to fall in love with reading from day one,” Mr Carroll said.

“Every child deserves the best start to their education, and that includes access to great books – no matter their background or where they live.”

Mr Carroll said research showed how important it was for parents and carers to regularly read aloud to young children, particularly as they moved from kindergarten to primary school and adjusted to the next phase in their learning.

By reading together, families can help children to expand their vocabulary, make connections between spoken and written words, and strengthen the bond they share with their children.

Victoria’s approach to reading, which includes mandatory phonics education, is working to set up our youngest students for life-long reading success ahead of full implementation from 2027.

GOROKE P-12 COLLEGE A small school achieving great things!

6 2 0 2 n i s u n Joi

Goroke P-12 College offers small class sizes and personalised learning with a wide variety of subjects, electives and accelerated VCE options for students beginning from Year 9. Our VCE students consistently achieve results at or above the state mean.

We have well established hands-on learning programs that complement our academic subjects. Our school offers students Food Technology incorporating Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden, Performing Arts and STEM/Science subjects for students from Prep to Year 12. In 2026, we will also be offering VET Certificate II in Engineering.

Our personalised approach allows students to flourish both academically, socially and personally. Our 2025 student, staff and parent data indicates a culture that is caring but also with high expectations for success.

Students are exposed to a range of external learning opportunities that care for our environment, build community connections, showcase talents and highlight the terrific opportunities available in a small school. This was recognised in our Wakakirri Story-Dance state awards in both 2024 and 2025.

We believe in developing the whole child to prepare them for post schooling pathways as well rounded, upstanding citizens that are lifelong learners. Opportunities for leadership skill development is readily available for all students. All students benefit from a caring and committed team. We run a modern and comfortable bus each day from Horsham through Quantong and Natimuk.

Small Class Sizes – Excellent VCE Results For further information contact the school on 03 5386 1024.

Dedicated Staff – Caring Environment Kylie Smith, Principal Personalised Learning Programs

Come join us in 2026!

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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P-12 colleges face funding cuts P

-12 college budgets across the state may face cuts with changes to allowances and school budgets, including the removal of the administration complexity allowance.

The allowance recognises the additional complexity involved in managing a P-12 setting, such as those at Birchip, Rainbow, Goroke, Edenhope, Hopetoun, Murtoa, Nhill, and Kaniva.

It is based on the Principal Classification Budget – proportionate to the principal’s salary and school size and complexity –and allocated as credit

funding. This year the minimum allowance was $32,604.

A State Government spokesperson said changes had been made to next year’s indicative school budgets, including to the P-12 complexity allowance, to simplify school budget line items for business managers and principals.

“Following consultation with schools, adjustments are also being made to the School Carryover Policy, that will enable small rural P-12 schools to maintain existing programs – ensuring our students receive the

world-class education they deserve,” they said.

“We are ensuring that every dollar families spend on their child’s education directly benefits their entire school journey.”

Nationals’ Member for Mildura Jade Benham has called on Education Minister Ben Carroll to reinstate the P-12 Complexity Allowance, warning that recent changes would deprive P-12 colleges of vital learning support and opportunities.

“The recent SRP changes, which phase out the P-12 complexity al-

lowance over several years, will have significant and long-lasting impacts on our schools,” she said.

“Once these cuts are fully implemented, schools will face reduced VCE subject offerings, limiting pathways for senior students, and fewer VET and applied learning opportunities, which are essential for local employment readiness.

“Engagement in tertiary education in the north-west of Victoria is already much lower than the state average, so these VET pathways are crucial for preparing students for work.”

Ms Benham also highlighted the impact on individual student support.

“This funding has allowed schools to provide tailored academic and wellbeing programs, including literacy and numeracy intervention, mentoring, and social and emotional support. In a state where literacy and numeracy are at historic lows, removing this allowance puts remote communities at an even greater disadvantage,” she said.

“Schools in our electorate already struggle to attract and retain highquality staff, and these cuts will only make matters worse.”

LEADERS: Horsham College students elected Henry Overman and Nash McKenzie, centre, their school captains for the new school year. Leni Hopper and Violet McGennisken, left, are the 2026 vice captains, while Lexy Wade and Addison Walter will be student leaders.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

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Respectful. Safe. Willing to Learn.

JOIN US IN 2026!

Edenhope College is committed to providing an exceptional education for young people.

We strive to support our students to prepare for their future challenges and adventures through a holistic approach to our teaching and learning programs. We not only focus on our students’ academic aspirations, but we also aim to develop their social, physical and emotional selves through a broad range of opportunities both in and out of the classroom.

We dare our young people to be curious, to explore the unknown and to discover their hidden talents. Our students are exposed to a broad range of academic and hands-on learning opportunities including our dynamic agricultural program from F-12. Students participate in an extensive array of co-curricular and learning activities throughout the day.

We have a strong wellbeing team and programs to support and empower students, giving them voice and meeting their wellbeing and engagement needs.

Edenhope College offers small class sizes and personalised learning programs that cater to the needs of the individual. For a small school, we punch above our weight with opportunities and outcomes.

We encourage and nurture student agency and voice, with involvement in programs such as School for Student Leadership and the Rural Youth Ambassadors Program.

Our aim at Edenhope College is to engage and challenge all students, meeting them at their point of need. Come and have at look at what we offer – you won’t be disappointed.

40-48 Lake Street Edenhope, Victoria 3318

Phone (03) 5585 1277 www.edenhope.vic.edu.au

Student Learner Profiles • I am RESILIENT • I am RESPONSIBLE and show INITIATIVE • I show COMPASSION • I think CRITICALLY, CREATIVELY and with CURIOSITY

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At Wimmera Lutheran College, Nhill, we are dedicated to nurturing students into well-rounded individuals who positively conrtibute to our world and community, all grounded in our Christian values.

With an emphasis on engaging learning experiences and the support of our dedicated staff, we empower our students to cultivate key attributes such as resilience, compassion, collaboration, critical and creative thinking, curiosity, responsibility, and initiative.

Wishing you and your family a happy and blessed Christmas!

A quality, Christian education for your child from Foundation to Year 6 PH: (03) 5391 2144 Page 48

2 Mackay St, Nhill VIC 3418 www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

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2 20

Teddy treated after tractor tumble

C

hildren’s teddy tours are set to launch again at Grampians Health’s Wimmera Base Hospital, familiarising potential paediatric patients with the service and its equipment.

Once a feature with Wimmera kindergartens, children would bring in a sick teddy bear and then watch as a doctor examined ‘Teddy’ and recommended further tests and treatment.

The tours ran for more than two decades before being cancelled during COVID-19.

There was no sign of a return until Goroke P-12 College teacher Amanda Light contacted Grampians Health public relations manager Peter Miller about the possibility of her students visiting the hospital.

Mr Miller said the hospital, particularly the emergency department, was much busier since COVID-19.

“There were safety concerns about bringing the tour back, but the enthusiasm from Grampians Health clinical staff was overwhelmingly in support of giving it a go, so we did,” he said.

Guiding the Wimmera Base Hospital ‘teddy ambulance’, Goroke prep students brought Teddy into the ED after he had ‘fallen from a tractor wheel’.

He was examined in the George Howell Resuscitation Unit by Dr Andrew Trezise and nurse Taylor Besford, under the close watch of emergency department head Dr Peter Carter.

Teddy was then transferred to radiology, where radiographer Gabriel Abrahams and manager Kristy Paine took an x-ray.

After viewing the images, it was determined

that Teddy needed further attention, so he was wheeled to the Yandilla unit.

Yandilla nurse unit manager Michelle Coutts was there to greet Teddy and his entourage and complete his admittance, which included his patient wrist band.

Physiotherapist Amy O’Sullivan then brought crutches for Teddy and after bandaging his leg, explained what rehabilitation he would need to help with recovery.

After just an hour of care at Wimmera Base Hospital, Teddy was discharged and returned home with his friends.

Ms Light thanked all the Grampians Health staff who looked after Teddy and made his visit a very pleasant experience.

“The students enjoyed every minute of their hospital visit and they all said they would feel safe if they ever had to come into hospital again,” she said.

Dr Carter said his team was boosted, seeing the children bring Teddy in for care.

“There were a lot of smiling faces and cooing from the team and it was just such a fun day,” he said. “Everyone is keen for more of these tours to happen, and while they have always been for kindergarten ages, I don’t see anything wrong with increasing the limit to maybe grade-two classes.

“As long as groups are a manageable size, we would welcome them, the only issue being that access to all areas is never a guarantee.

“That’s just the nature of our business.”

Schools or kindergartens wanting to enquire about teddy tours next year can email communications@gh.org.au.

HEART CHECK: Dr Andrew Trezise helps Christopher Nicholas to check Teddy’s heart.

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VISIT: Teddy, on the ambulance, is pictured with Goroke P-12 College teachers Amanda Light and Liz Hage and Yandilla nurse unit manager Michelle Coutts, centre, with students, from left, Henry Eills, Chelsea Bourchier, Stella McCuish, Aria Newley, Christopher Nicholas and Theo Pilgrim at Wimmera Base Hospital.

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Congratulations

Class of 2025!

This year, 97% of our students successfully attained their Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), with 84% sitting examinations and receiving an ATAR. More importantly, they leave St Brigid’s College prepared for life beyond school, ready to embrace their next chapter with confidence and purpose.

Our graduates are now embarking on exciting post-school pathways, including university, TAFE, apprenticeships, traineeships, and employment. Each journey reflects the diverse talents and aspirations nurtured within our school community.

At St Brigid’s College, we provide a personalised education in a Catholic environment, that empowers every student to achieve their best.

Get in touch! (03) 5382 3545

info@stbc.vic.edu.au

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DIMBOOLA

Contact Us: PH - 5389 1626 26 Horsham Road Dimboola, VIC 3414 admin.dimboola@wlc.vic.edu.au

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December 17, 2025

Growing a generation Evan and Alex Barber harvest barley on their property at Wail. The brothers have grown into the family farm and are pleased with this year’s harvest after a dry start to the growing season. Story, page 57. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

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Exceeding averages

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ncreasingly volatile global markets will play a key role to growth prospects across the Australian agribusiness sector in 2026, underscoring the importance of maintaining strong diversified trade relationships.

Bendigo Bank’s 2026 Australian Agriculture Outlook report outlined a broadly positive 2026 for Australian agriculture, but with about two thirds of Australian agricultural products exported, global influences will be integral.

Bendigo Bank Agribusiness industry insights senior manager Eliza Redfern said seasonal risk and economic uncertainty remained at the forefront.

“While higher on-farm costs will weigh on the production of vegetables and milk, the tight supply outlook for sheep and wool, in addition to strong export demand for beef and demand lifting for some crops, will help support pricing into the new year,” she said.

With the Victorian harvest off to a slow start, running more than 50 per cent behind the five-year average, the delay has had an immediate firming effect on nearby cash prices for feed grains. However, Victoria is forecast to deliver a crop of 8.5-million tonnes, slightly exceeding the 10-year average.

Once the volume goes to market,

prices are forecast to face downward harvest pressure – the heavy flow, coupled with a globally wellsupplied market and weak international futures, is expected to reverse recent short-term gains, with many growers opting to store grain and await better post-harvest values.

The forecast for 2026 is that harvest pressure will keep wheat prices soft early, but strength should emerge in the second quarter of the year as Southeast Asian feed demand lifts.

Barley values are likely to find support from China and the Middle East in early 2026, with barley and canola to dominate first-quarter exports, allowing wheat to roll into the second quarter.

High-protein and noodle wheat are attracting early buyer interest, while demand for feed grain is at a historical peak, driven by sustained, high-volume output across all key intensive farming sectors.

“Australia’s total winter crop production for 2025-26 is now forecast at 62.3-million tonnes, representing a 12 per cent increase from our mid-year estimate of 54.5-million tonnes,” Ms Redfern said.

“This would be the third largest crop on record.”

Lamb and wool

The recent run of strong prices is expected to continue into 2026 due

to firm demand and the tight supply environment, with lamb and mutton supply likely to remain lower in the first half of 2026.

Australian lamb prices are expected to ease from the recent record highs, but will remain well above the five-year average.

Victorian lamb supply will continue to build, but the quantity of lambs available is still expected to be lower following a prolonged period of destocking.

Firm processor and export demand, as well as restocking activity should conditions allow, will also be supportive for prices.

Dry conditions over the past two seasons have resulted in destocking across the state, so sheep prices should remain elevated, should favourable conditions prevail.

“We’re also expecting Australian lamb and mutton supply will remain lower in the first half of 2026, with prices easing from recent record highs but remaining well above the five-year average,” Ms Redfern said “The recent run of strong prices is expected to continue into 2026 due to firm demand and the tight supply environment.”

The Victorian wool market is looking to continue its positive start to the season, with further price growth driven primarily by reduced supply.

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PICTURE PERFECT: ‘Evening Barley’ by Philip Down, of Speed.

Down wins photography award If a picture tells a thousand words, then the winning shots in the GrainGrowers annual calendar competition deliver a compelling visual story about the Australian grain industry.

Philip Down, of Speed, was judged the winner of the photographic competition.

Mr Down will receive $1000 for his first-place finish with a photograph titled ‘Evening Barley’.

The judges commented of his photo: ‘A beautifully lit image that draws the viewer straight into the golden crop.

The depth, warmth and gentle stillness make it a peaceful and captivating scene.’

Second place was Mindy Hussey, of Goondiwindi, Queensland, with ‘Golden Tonnes’, taking home $500; while third place, $250, was awarded to Georgie Hamilton, of Wee Waa, NSW, with

‘Super Harvest Moon’. The People’s Choice Award, $250, was Carly Egan, of Milbrulong, NSW, with ‘The Next Generation’.

GrainGrowers’ chief executive Shona Gawel said the competition was popular and had been running for more than a decade.

“The images really do help to capture the uniqueness of what happens on our grain farms across the country and the wide abundance of interesting subject matter,” she said.

The top 12 selected images will now be featured in the upcoming 2026 GrainGrowers calendar.

Winning entries will also receive industry-wide exposure through GrainGrowers’ publications and social media channels.

People can view the winning images on the GrainGrowers website.

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new plant protein hub and glasshouse at Horsham SmartFarm is now operational, allowing researchers from universities and private enterprise to work with Agriculture Victoria.

The facilities will help researchers and industry partners discover and develop high-protein crop varieties, tailored to meet growing global demand for plant-based foods such as lentils, chickpeas and field peas.

The hub will provide collaborative spaces for start-ups, researchers and growers, alongside a fully equipped test kitchen, advanced analytical equipment and facilities to explore new plant-based products.

The hub allows for up to 10 Doctor of Philosophy, PhD, students and three start-ups to shape future research opportunities.

Agriculture Minister Ros Spence said the hub was a $12-million investment from the State Government – $9-million for the hub and $3-million for the glasshouse.

“Victoria is leading the way in plant-based protein research, building world-class facilities and fostering collaboration that will transform agriculture and strengthen regional economies,” he said.

Ms Spence said construction of the hub created dozens of jobs across trades, suppliers, professional and technical services.

She said moving forward, it would continue to create opportunities in research, education and industry collaboration.

Students from primary school through to post-graduate level in the region will also benefit from handson learning in a dedicated education space, creating pathways for future careers in agriculture.

Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria Michaela Settle said the new glasshouse would accelerate crop research, improve pest and disease management and boost climate resilience – helping farmers adapt to changing conditions and maintain productivity.

“This investment will help our communities reach new markets, drive local jobs, champion sustainable practices, and ensure a strong

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

OFFICIAL: From left, Agriculture Victoria researchers Josh Fanning and Chloe Findlay, Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria Michaela Settle, Agriculture Victoria research head Simone Warner and research leader Cassandra Walker at the opening of a new plant protein hub and glasshouse at Horsham SmartFarm.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER and resilient future for regional Victoria,” she said.

Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora said the region was already a leader in growing crops for plant-based protein products.

“Having fit-for-purpose facilities like the Plant Protein Hub at Horsham SmartFarm strengthens our research capabilities and opens the door to new opportunities across agriculture and food innovation,” she said.

Victoria’s pulse industry generated $638-million in export income last year, and Australia exports about 2.5-million tonnes of pulses annually, making it the second-largest pulse exporter in the world.

The opening comes after Agriculture Victoria research employees at Horsham faced job cuts after a State Government plan to restructure and reduce staffing.

Positions ‘no longer required’ include five scientist positions in the Agriculture Resources Sciences division.

In August, a ‘Change proposal and staff consultation pack’ for Agricultural Victoria Research division, outlined proposed changes to improve ‘cross-branch co-ordination at Horsham Smartfarm’; and a new co-ordinator role at the Horsham Smartfarm to work across multiple branches at Horsham.

At the time, the Victorian Farmers Federation and Member for Lowan Emma Kealy expressed concern about the job cuts, with VFF president Brett Hosking saying: “Any reduction in staff and services would be a backward step for Victorian agriculture, particularly in areas safeguarding the sector against pests and diseases.”

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LEARNING: PhD student Amrit BK with food he cooked from plant-based meat.

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95 Nelson Street, Nhill CALL 03 5391 2106

ANOTHER DAY: Breanne Mills, of Kalkee.

SUN SETTING: Brett Wheaton working into the evening.

Barber’s season on track

F

BY BROWNYN HASTINGS

arming is a lifestyle more than an occupation for brothers Alex and Evan Barber, having spent their respective 27 and 22 years on their family farm at Wail, near Dimboola.

Working with their parents Russell and Lisa, Alex said this year’s harvest so far was pleasing, despite not getting much rain during the colder months.

“We’re doing four-and-a-half tonnes a hectare, five in some spots, so it’s not too bad,” he said.

A family-run business, Mr Barber said the progression into farming was a gradual one.

“Mum and dad got us into it when we were young and as time went on, we got more into it,” he said.

“But when you’ve lived it all your life, it’s just what you do. It’s a good lifestyle, I enjoy it, and I think mum and dad are happy with what me and Evan are doing.

“You never know, me and my brother might end up taking over the farm in years to come, and hopefully I’ll keep the generations going when I have kids one day.”

Above expectations

Minyip farmer and VFF Grains president Ryan Milgate said late rains had delayed harvesting in some areas.

“Everyone’s keen to get into harvest

and get some grain in the bin, but Mother Nature seems to have a few other ideas on her mind at the moment,” he said.

“I don’t think the rain per se has done much damage that I’m aware of, it’s probably the first rain, which is not normally a big problem, it’s the second and third that become an issue.”

Mr Milgate said there had been some isolated hailstorms in November.

“We were fortunate enough to get under a hailstorm last month, but that has knocked a bit of barley out,” he said.

“We’re not 100 per cent sure on the full extent yet, being fairly isolated, but it’s certainly causing a lot of damage to people’s confidence and nerves at the moment.”

Mr Milgate said lentils and canola were generally the first harvested in the region.

“There’s canola coming off, and lentils have been a bit of an interesting one this year. We’ve got guys that probably haven’t desiccated lentils yet, and there’s also lentils that have been harvested – they’re a bit all over the shop,” he said.

“And there’s been a little bit of barley done, it’s a bit of a stocking filler.

“If lentils or canola aren’t quite right, a lot of people are happy to have a crack at some barley and see what they find.”

Mr Milgate said he had heard that everything that had been harvested so far was yielding above growers’ expectations.

“Quality so far in the Wimmera area has been really good,” he said.

“There’s some pleasing results given it was a pretty tough season.

“But normally everyone in the Wimmera likes to have a finish-by-Christmas type scenario, in Horsham and north and east, but I think that’s well and truly off the cards now, unfortunately.”

Weather delays

Agriculture Victoria seasonal risk agronomist Dale Grey said although harvest was winding up in much of the Mallee, it had been a slow start in the Wimmera.

“Their season elongated out because the October rain they had was helpful to crops,” he said.

“And then the rain interruptions as well has meant the Wimmera is not getting a start that it would like.”

Mr Grey said models were ‘sitting on the fence’.

“At this time of the year, anything could happen, and that is normal,” he said.

The December to February prediction is for neutral rainfall with warmer temperatures than average.

IN FULL SWING: Derek Cameron, of Marnoo.

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Worthy of interest L

ike it or not, artificial intelligence is making its mark in agriculture.

As I’m learning, it can do extraordinary things, most of which we don’t have to fear.

I’m not very interested in mechanical things, like cars, which as far as I’m concerned, just need to get me comfortably from A to B. No need for all the bells and whistles.

But when it comes to saving farmers time, and therefore money, the latest technology available is worthy of interest.

So being a mechanical luddite, I was a tad overwhelmed when I was sent to report from the world’s largest agricultural machinery trade fair, Agritechnica, in Hannover, Germany.

Picture this: an exhibition site of more than 400,000 square metres with about 25 separate pavilions, filled with nearly 3000 exhibits from 50 countries.

This year was the first to have a small group of Australian exhibitors.

I only had two days at the event and no real idea where to start.

Needless to say, I did well over my 10,000 steps a day.

There were shuttle buses to take you around the vast expanse of

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Country Today with Libby Price

venues, but I kept standing on the wrong side of the road and missing the buses.

As you can imagine, the tractor manufacturers were throwing money at the event.

The latest advances spell it out clearly that autonomous tractors not only will become commonplace, they’ll be able to do a better job than human operators.

For example, this year’s Agritechnica winners of Smart Farming and Robotics were a tractor, which ‘uses camera sensors and artificial intelligence, AI, to analyse cropflow images in real time and automatically adjust processing parameters for optimal kernel processing in forage harvesters’.

I think that means it can slow down when AI tells it the crop load is heavier. Hopefully you know what it means.

The other was a forage harvester which could also make adjustments on its own.

For livestock producers, the big news is that, at last, the Victo-

rian and New South Wales governments approved the use of virtual fencing.

Tasmania was the first state to approve it and now it’s only South Australia that is lagging.

I think it’s a great win, especially for dairy farmers in our largest dairying state.

On Country Today I interviewed the Australian representative for the New Zealand company, Halter, which in less than a decade has grown to be the largest provider of virtual fencing in the world and is the fastest growing company in the country.

It’s proving its worth in Tasmania, and already Victorian dairy and beef farmers have signed up to adopt the technology.

The halters, or collars, on the cows are run by solar power and farmers just have to put up towers for reception and manage it from their iPhone or laptop.

The farmer simply draws boundaries with their finger on the app.

The cattle learn that a vibration on their collar warns them not to go too close to the boundary.

And it leads to happier cows as the collars can monitor cattle health and pasture productivity.

As they say, happy wife, happy life. Happy cow, happy farmer.

95 Nelson Street, Nhill CALL 03 5391 2106

PICTURESQUE: Relax among the vines at Grampians Wine’s first event of the year at Fallen Giants Vineyard on January 3.

Evening among the vines Grampians Wine will host its first event for 2026 at Fallen Giants Vineyard on January 3.

‘An evening in the vines’, from 4pm to 8pm, has become a regular event on the Grampians Wine calendar.

Each January, the region’s finest popup event offers an evening of wine tasting, music and food, plus a playground for children.

Food vans will be on site serving food at the vineyard, which sits at the base of the Grampians National Park, offering stunning views and a picturesque set-

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

ting. People are invited to bring a picnic rug or chair and enjoy a beautiful summer evening.

A tasting ticket, costing $8, entitles attendees to taste all Grampians Wines featured at the event.

‘An evening in the vines’ is free-entry for non-tasters, designated drivers and children.

Fallen Giants Vineyard is at 4113 Ararat-Halls Gap Road, Halls Gap. People can buy tickets at events. humanitix.com/an-evening-in-thevines-with-grampians-wine-2026.

Page 59

MARSHALL MULTISPREAD Multi-purpose Fertilizer Spreaders

2.5 to 16 Tonne models available. PTO or Hydraulic drive.

Range of options including 3 metre track, Weighing Systems and i4M Variable Rate System

Vertical Feed-mixers 10 to 40 cubic metre capacity.

Single or Twin Augers.

Front Door or Side Doors with 3—9 ft elevators.

ROLLER MILLS 12”, 24”, 36” & 48” models Precision-machined 16” diameter rolls, which provide more grain rolling area per revolution compared to other brands of roller mills with smaller diameter rolls. Save time and money year after year by rolling more grain per hour with less horsepower.

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79 Hamilton St Horsham Call (03) 5382 8600 Page 60

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Proudly brought to you by:

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Levy remains despite ‘pause’

C

ouncils are warning primary producers they will still be required to pay Emergency Service and Volunteer Fund levies, despite the State Government announcement of a ‘pause’.

As part of its Budget update earlier this month, the Labor government announced changes to the ESVF – including no increase to the variable rate for primary production land, an increase to the volunteer rebate cap for farmland from $5-million to $10-million, and a delay to the change for investment properties by 12 months.

But Hindmarsh Shire Council has issued a notice to farmers to say they will still see a charge for the levy on their rates notices.

The ‘freeze’ means they will be charged the same variable rate as what they were in the 2024-25 and 2025-26 financial years.

The ESVF charges are made up of the two following rates: variable, which will be 28.7 cents per $1000 of capital improved value for the next two financial years; and fixed, which is the current fixed rate for 2025-26, $275.00.

The rate is determined by the State Revenue Office and may change each financial year.

Hindmarsh Mayor Ron Ismay said the council would continue its advocacy against the ESVF. He said while welcoming the relief for

primary producers for two years, the council would continue to work with the Municipal Association of Victoria and Rural Councils Victoria to urge the government to enact permanent changes that did not unfairly burden communities.

“While this short-term outcome is welcomed, this is not the outcome that we have been advocating for,” he said.

“Victoria’s emergency services are so vital to our community, but their funding should not be unfairly taken from the pockets of dedicated emergency service volunteers.

“It is encouraging to see the Victorian government is listening, and we’re committed to continued advocacy for the needs of our farmers and wider community.”

The pause comes after backlash – particularly among regional councils and communities – with protests staged across the state this year, including a major rally on the steps of Parliament House in May, involving a number of Wimmera people.

Opposition to the ESVF was led by farmers, who face large increases on the property tax, and Country Fire Authority volunteers, who felt the new tax was an unfair imposition, given the volunteer hours they contributed to the emergency services.

‘Gingerbread’ enabling genetic profiling 95 Nelson Street, Nhill CALL 03 5391 2106

A graduate researcher is harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to make genetic selection easier for breeders and researchers seeking varieties from the Australian Grains Genebank, AGG, at Horsham SmartFarm.

Software engineer and PhD student at Agribio Bundoora, Nivin Goonesekera, is working on a thesis titled ‘Seeing is believing: Visualising the Australian Grains Genebank’.

Mr Goonesekera is part of Agriculture Victoria’s higher education program and co-supervised

by Agriculture Victoria’s Plant Functional Genomics team and the La Trobe University School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences.

Mr Goonesekera said his research had resulted in an AIdriven, multi-dimensional search and visualisation tool called Gingerbread, which would complement other digital tools in use and increase access to plant-genetic resources at the AGG. “The AGG currently stores over 190,000 types of seed from more than 150 countries worldwide,” Mr Goonesekera said.

“For plant breeders, this enormous and complex collection can be quite challenging and time consuming to search through.

“Gingerbread will benefit plant

Researcher Nivin Goonesekera

breeders who are wanting to identify genetic material best suited for their research.

“The tool has been coded with Python and uses AI algorithms to provide a 2D representation of the genebank genotype data.

“Through the client interface, researchers can input criteria and extract a world-map-like view of plant material contained in the genebank.”

Results from the AGG dataset can be displayed in many kinds of views such as geographical, plant pedigree disease or pesticideresistant traits, and also highlight variety duplicates.

Gingerbread leverages the genetic profiling of the AGG’s collection, which was funded

through a $30-million strategic partnership between Agriculture Victoria and the Grains Research and Development Corporation, to unlock the potential of AGG resources for Australian grain growers.

More than 50,000 genotypes have already been publicly released by the partnership and can be accessed on the Harvard Dataverse.

Mr Goonesekera intends to contact researchers and breeders to help with Gingerbread’s beta testing phase early next year.

People can learn more about the higher education program, the AGG and the AGG Strategic Partnership at agriculture.vic.gov.au.

To all our livestock, property & wool clients, thank you for entrusting AWN Wimmera with your business.

We hope 2026 is a prosperous year for all

First Horsham Market of 2026 14th January 2026 710 acres

FOR SALE Nixons Rd, Wonwondah Once in a generation chance!

710 acres available across 3 lots as per below; Lot 1 "Clara's" 320 acres Lot 2 "Jeffries" 196 acres Lot 3 "Racecourse" 194 acres The tightly held Wonwondah district boasts a very reliable annual rainfall, suited to growing all types of crops - canola, beans, wheat & barley. Close proximity to all major grain receival centres of the Wimmera, this property would be a great addition to your portfolio. Well fenced with GWM water to troughs throughout, as well as catchment dams and bitumen road frontage.

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

View

By Appointment

For Sale

By Expressions Of Interest Closing 13th February 2026 If Not Sold Prior

Size

710 Acres

Contact

Stephen Kelly 0457 481 594 skelly@awn.net

Page 61

COLOMBO IMI Lentil

A

High yielding disease resistant IMI tolerant lentil All Australia NVT predicted MET yield of lentil varieties (2023 & 2024)* and 2020-2024 mean (% GIA ThunderA)

Large red lentil variety Highest yielding of all the large and medium IMI lentil varieties Highest ascochyta blight resistance of all the IMI lentil varieties Good level of BGM resistance Scan QR for Brochure

Moderate to good vegetative frost tolerance Mid maturity Order seed now from your local reseller

More information PBSeeds 03 5383 2213

admin@pbseeds.com.au www.pbseeds.com.au

IMI tolerant varieties

2023

2024

GIA ColomboA PBA Kelpie XTA ALB Dane GIA ThunderA GIA LightningA ALB TerrierA GIA LeaderA PBA Highland XTA PBA Hurricane XTA PBA Hallmark XTA Conventional variety PBA Jumbo2A Year mean yield (t/ha) No. of trials

97 94 95 100 100 95 89 95 92 90

100 88 98 100 103 97 90 93 92 88

96 1.87 14

93 1.54 13**

2020-24 No. of trials 91 25 87 65 89 25 100 65 92 65 96 50 86 62 87 65 87 62 86 65 94 2.12

57

Data accessed 04/09/2025 from NVT Long term Yield Report, nvt.grdc.com.au. *2023 & 2024 individual years only presented as GIA Colombo not tested in 2020-2022 **Number of trials: Colombo & Dane=11; Jumbo2=5

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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Wishing all a prosperous 2026

95 Nelson Street, Nhill CALL 03 5391 2106

I

f there is one job that must test the mental fortitude of even the very best, it would have to be a hay-baling contractor in a soft spring like what we have just experienced.

In a weather pattern that has been beneficial for some, and very frustrating for others, things have finally started to dry off, with the forecast for the remainder of December looking more attune to the types of conditions we are used to in the Wimmera at this time of year.

One thing the weather has done is return to a more familiar system whereby the south has consistently received higher rainfall totals than the more northern regions as the events have rolled through.

This, combined with warmer weather and the usual cap on daily maximum temps, has seen an astonishing turnaround in feed levels in areas such as Hamilton, Mortlake and surrounds.

Sheep feed has quickly turned to cattle feed in those areas, however the appetite to trade livestock in order to utilise this feed has been there to some extent, but also limited at the same time.

This is due to factors such as being wary of what will happen when the weather gets really warm, enjoying some money flowing in for a change and not wanting to see it dis-

appear again straight away by buying trade stock at elevated levels, or simply wanting to have a spell knowing that purchasing trade stock now will inevitably require supplementary feeding in order to turn them around.

For those willing to put in the effort, the rewards look to be there.

Using new season lambs as an example, some early trade results from some of the more established feeding operators are yielding acceptable returns, even despite the high buy in costs.

All in all, with a little bit from column A and a little bit from column B in 2025, it all begs the question as to what is in store for 2026? Let’s wait and see.

At AWN, we would like to wish all of our clients and peers a restful Christmas and New Year period, and we look forward to another productive and hopefully prosperous season in 2026.

HELLO... AGAIN: Horsham resident June Liddy has had her third annual encounter with a brown snake – this year eating a pobblebonk frog metres from her house. Mrs Liddy said she was looking for a missing chook when she found the snake about three metres from her back door. “I raced inside, alerted the family, grabbed my camera and took several photos,” she said. “We called a snake catcher, but he said he could not arrive for two hours.” Mrs Liddy said she and her family set up to keep the snake corralled, but after an hour it made a break for it, slithering around the side of the house and heading for an in-ground water tank where they lost sight of it. “Last year she entered my glasshouse and stayed for three days until I banged a shovel on the back wall loudly, and the next day she had departed,” she said. “The year before I was carrying a basket of washing to the clothesline when movement caught my eye – there she was standing up on her tail. I stopped immediately, slowly stepped backwards and she went down and slithered off in the opposite direction.”

Women on Farms Gathering At Hamilton from March 20 to 26, the next annual Women on Farms Gathering has the theme ‘Fields of Strength, Seeds of

To the border

Stores in Horsham, Nhill, Kaniva & Edenhope and covering the whole Wimmera Mallee

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This year’s event at Benalla included keynote speakers, workshops, tours, live music and networking opportunities.

“A family business of true locals

Warracknabeal

Nhill Kaniva Dimboola

Edenhope

Change’. Guest speakers, programs, ticket information and more will be available in coming weeks.

HORSHAM ... NOW OPEN KANIVA ... Thursday fortnightly NHILL & EDENHOPE ... Every Friday Jamie ........................... 0417 119 216 Brett ............................. 0417 344 182

BROKEN WINDSCREEN? WE’LL FIX IT BEFORE YOU MISS A LOAD Busy harvest? We’ve got you covered.

Our onsite windscreen repairs & replacements service means less downtime & more time in the header or truck during the busy harvest period.

Call now — we’ll come to you, so you can keep the wheels (and the grain) turning!

60B Darlot St, Horsham (Next to Horsham Bearings) Wednesday, December 17, 2025

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Call 0427 977 336 Page 63

FARMERS SIZZLIN’ COMPACT OFFER WE SERVICE AND ARE YOU HARVEST READY? GET AHEAD WITH KäRCHER

ACROSS THE MASSEY FERGUSON COMPACT RANGE 1GC, 1800 and 2800 Series | 23–60 HP

MAINTAIN EXISTING KÄRCHER MACHINES!

SALE - 10% OFF SELECTED SWEEPERS & AIR PURIFIERS!

MF 1GC.23 | 23 HP

KM 85/50 W BP

KM 85/50 R BP

KM 70/30 C BP 2SB

KM 70/20 C 2SB

Find out more at www.tractionag.com.au - While stocks last! *Offer and advertised pricing are valid for new retail orders placed between 1st November 2025 and close of business on 28th February 2026, and for units delivered by 31st March 2026, or while stock lasts (whichever occurs first). Pricing is based on a standard specification tractor with loader and 4-in-1 bucket; all additional items and accessories are sold separately. Not available in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Images are for illustration purposes only and may differ from machines available in-country. Pre-delivery and freight charges may apply. ~Eligible purchases will receive one complimentary Weber® Baby Q® Red 1200N LPG, with estimated dispatch within one month of machine delivery. This offer applies only to the purchase of Massey Ferguson MF 1 GC Series, MF 1800 Series, or MF 2800 Series tractors.

Available from participating Massey Ferguson dealers only, while stock lasts. ^4-year warranty includes a standard 2-year / 2,000-hour warranty plus an extended 2-year term (total warranty: 4-years / 2,000 hours), subject to exclusions and an excess during the extended warranty period. Contact your local Massey Ferguson dealer for full details.

AIR PURIFIER AF 100

119 Stawell Road, Horsham | (03) 5382 6886

FARMERS: Richard and Tayten at Eureka Garages & Sheds Horsham wish all their valued clients and contractors a wonderful Christmas and New Year. They look forward to building with you in 2026!

The office will be closed from December 19, returning January 12.

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RURAL SHED • INDUSTRIAL SHED • ANY SHED Page 64

Phone (03) 5382 4140

horsham@eurekagarages.com.au www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

EUREKA Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Small SUV grows

E

nlarged and transplanted to a more modern and refined platform, the second-generation Kia Seltos fulfils a broader global brief than its predecessor, with Kia signalling the crossover would underpin the brand’s growth plans in internal combustion and hybrid markets.

Assembly of the Seltos starts in India later this month for that market, while South Korean production of the new-generation model is slated for early 2026 – an Australian launch is at least nine months away.

A statement provided by Kia Australia confirmed the fourth quarter of 2026 for a local release, with the brand set to start local ride and handling tuning in the coming months.

Having amassed more than twomillion sales since the outgoing firstgen’ model launched in mid-2019, the Seltos shifts onto a newer ‘K3’ platform shared by Kia and sibling brand Hyundai.

Product executives said the move to the K3 platform brought substantial gains in on-road behaviour.

Kia head of global business planning Spencer Cho said most of the ‘hard

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

points of the chassis and suspension’ had been changed and the new Seltos would have ‘much improved ride and handling characteristics’.

The South Korean brand will sell the new Seltos in European markets in a first for the nameplate, reflecting increased confidence about the maturity and sophistication of the small SUV. Annual sales targets have been set at 430,000 for the second-generation car, up 7.5 per cent compared with the outgoing model.

The region that includes Australia will be expected to find 30,000 annual sales, with regional goals set at 130,000 for North America, 100,000 for India and 60,000 for Europe.

While core 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated and 1.6-litre turbocharged fourcylinder petrol engines carry across, the Seltos line will expand with the arrival of a hybrid, HEV, option that is all but confirmed to come to Australia.

The Seltos HEV variant is expected to share the 104kW/265Nm 1.6-litre petrol-electric four-cylinder used by the closely related Hyundai Kona Hybrid.

Kia said the Seltos HEV would be differentiated by its deployment of

REVEALED: Kia has released details of its second-generation Seltos, expected late next year.

Smart Regenerative Braking 3.0 – which uses real-time traffic and navigation inputs – plus an in-cabin power outlet with vehicle-to-load discharging.

The exterior design of the Seltos incorporates ‘star map’ lighting stretching into the front grille, while the model picks up some of the slab-sided cues deployed on the EV5.

Inside, packaging enhancements include greater second-row legroom and reclining rear seats, while a shift-

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

by-wire type automatic transmission selector frees up additional centreconsole space.

A new horizontal dashboard design incorporates dual 12.3-inch displays, split by a 5.0-inch climate adjustment panel, while dedicated physical toggles for temperature and fan speed, hard shortcuts for key infotainment pages and a volume roller are all present and accounted for.

The Seltos’s technology stack runs on Kia’s ccNC architecture, with app

availability growing to include Netflix and Disney Plus streaming, ChatGPTlinked chat functions and over-the-air updating capability. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto will also come to Seltos.

Front- and all-wheel drive configurations will continue, while new driverassistance technologies include Highway Driving Assist 2 with hands-on detection capability for the steering wheel.

– Tom Baker

Page 65

s g n i t e e r G Seasofrnomsthe team at

O W R R O M MOTOR GROUP

Santa’s Christmas Deals on Used 2021 Hyundai Kona 2WD

2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Elite

2022 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain

202 Isuzu D-Max SX Cab Chassis

1TW-1BS. 74,530km, 2L 4-cylinder, 8-spd constant variable, petrol

CWD-177. 97,103km, 2.2L 4-cyl, 8-spd sports auto, diesel

CBC-614. 3L 4-cyl, 6-spd sports auto, diesel

1ST-5JL. 151,132km, 3L 4-cyl, 6-spd sports auto, diesel

25,990

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2020 Mazda 3 G20 Pure

2020 Mazda CX-30 G20 Evolve

2022 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport GLX

2023 Nissan Navara D23 Utility

BJU-417. 42,691km, 2L 4-cyl, 6-spd sports auto, petrol

1RO-5LT. 66,975km, 2L 4-cyl, 6-spd sports auto, petrol

1WP-9TO. 98,050km, 2.4L 4-cyl, 8-spd sports auto, diesel

2BI-8RP. 26km, 2.3L 4-cyl, 7-spd sports auto, diesel

26,990

$

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25,990

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MORROW MOTOR GROUP

Page 66

Craig Kemp

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Steve Chamberlain

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

ATTENTION ALL DRIVERS! Be among the first to experience the ALL-NEW NISSAN NAVARA before it officially hits the road

See it. Sit in it.

Feel what’s next.

This exclusive one-day pre-release event gives you the chance to get up close with Nissan’s latest evolution of the Navara – tougher, smarter, and more capable than ever.

More Power. More Torque. Better Fuel Efficiency.

All wrapped up in a bold new design built for work days and weekends alike.

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Thursday, December 18 – 8.30am to 5.30pm

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Page 67

HELLO

CURRENTLY IN STOCK

THE NAME’S

BRUCE NO, NOT THE SHARK…

THE MAN!

Local to Stawell for 50 YEARS!

SOLD WAS $46,950

2022 ISUZU MUX LS-M

2013 Ford Territory SZ Titanium

2019 Isuzu MU-X LS-M Wagon

1VU6HS - 73,500kms.

3.0L, Cloth Seats, 7 Seater, Keyless Start, Tow Bar DRIVE $ AWAY

ZTU734 - 149,952kms.

7st 5dr Seq Sport Shift 6sp 2.7DT DRIVE $ AWAY

AYZ745 - 157,952kms. 7st 5dr Rev-Tronic 6sp 4x4 658kg 3.0DT DRIVE $ AWAY

15,990

45,950

36,950

SOLD WAS $26,990

YOU MIGHT KNOW HIM FOR SELLING HOMES AND LAND,

2018 MAZDA CX-8

2013 Ford Territory SZ TS

2016 Hyundai i30 GD4 S2 Active X

2DD4NV - 145,117kms.

FWD, 2.2L Diesel Engine, 7 Seats, One Owner, 2 Keys DRIVE $ AWAY

ZJO971 - 152,452kms. 7st 5dr Seq Sport Shift 6sp 2.7DT

1JX9ZN – 74,979kms. 5dr Spts Auto 6sp 1.8i

14,950

25,990

$

17,950

$

DRIVE AWAY

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SANTA’S SLEIGH OF THE WEEK

BUT NOW HE’S YOUR GO-TO PERSON IN THE STAWELL REGION FOR NEW AND USED CARS!

2024 Ford Ranger Raptor Pickup Double Cab DQP828 – 3,495kms. 4dr Spts Auto 10sp, FullTime 4WD, 3.0TT

87,888

SAVE 1000s OFF NEW PRICE

$

DRIVE AWAY

SOLD

WAS $47,990

2020 Ford Ranger FX4

2015 Kia Carnival YP S Wagon

2015 Ford Everest UA Trend

BGY046 - 73,372kms.

2.0l 4x4 , One Owner , Leather Seats , Well Looked After

1Q3YY - 195,542kms.

8st, 5dr, Spts Auto, 6sp, 2.2DT 700776

1GB3AS - 167,876kms.

7st 5dr Spts Auto 6sp 4WD 3.2DT

$

$

$

44,990 DRIVE AWAY

22,990

26,990

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SOLD

COME SAY HELLO TO BRUCE NORTON MOTOR GROUP 33 WESTERN HIGHWAY, STAWELL

WAS $49,990

WAS $34,950

2020 FORD Wildtrak

2018 FORD RANGER PX MKII XLS

2019 Ford Ranger PX MkIII XL

1RX8SL - 70,321kms.

2.0L 4x4 Bull Bar, Driving Lights UHF , Roller Shutter

1OD3AM - 147,952kms.

3.2L, New all terrain tyres, bullbar, driving lights,

1ZG9AM - 200,051kms.

Double Cab, 4dr, Spts Auto, 6sp, 4x4 3.2DT, 700533

$

$

$

95 Stawell Road, Horsham

Ph (03) 5382 4677

YOU’LL LIKE BRUCE, HE’S DIFFERENT.

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24,990 DRIVE AWAY

33 Western Highway, Stawell

Ph (03) 5358 2144

Saint Nick

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Grinch Maconachie

HORSHAM

HORSHAM

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0419 510 284 – sales manager

HTTPS://WWW.NORTONMOTORGROUP.COM.AU/ Page 68

33,950

48,590 DRIVE AWAY

0408 846 244 – sales/finance

0497 305 287 – sales

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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For renovations of any size, a new barbecue or pizza oven in your outdoor area, or a garden feature, retaining wall, letterbox or brick fencing, then Garry ‘Bluey’ McIntyre can look after you.

With 19 years’ experience, Bluey has an extensive knowledge of bricklaying, bolstered through his work with Jeff Milton and Locks Constructions.

Bluey works on both homes – new and extensions – as well as commercial properties.

And no job is too small – give Bluey a call to discuss your bricklaying needs.

Got termites?

licence no.

CDB-U 75417

Call SOlver.

That’s Steve Olver, The Termite Man

Call Steve: 53 822 993

Email: admin@termitesolver.com.au

www.termitesolver.com.au

16 St, Horsham • Ph: 2230 54Sloss McLachlan St, Horsham • 5382 Ph: 5382 2230

SPECIALISTS IN DESIGN

Carpet, Upholstery, Window, Tile & Grout Cleaning

Registered Building Practitioner

Call Aaron Jennings 0488 110 715

T.V. C��NEC����S

Stockist of

passenger, commercial & Trojan golf cart batteries Contact Horsham Autoglass today to organise a prompt battery replacement for your vehicle.

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140 Golf Course Rd, Horsham Ph: 5382 5002 (Soil Yard) 5382 6230 (Nursery)

RUBBISH REMOVAL

5382 5429

Blue Ute Garden Services Aaron Robinson

blueute@myyahoo.com www.bevanart.com.au

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Professionals at: Cleaning: -

Supplying wood burning heater & stove parts ARARAT & STAWELL DISTRICT

Windows Commerical Industrial Builders Domestic Offices Building Sites

Sally: 0409 523 917 • sally@gallaghers.com.au

www.gallaghers.com.au

9 Madden St, Horsham

5379 3827

No obligation quote

Travel charges apply outside of Horsham

GALLAGHERS V&S SERVICES

Pty Ltd

FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES!

Lop The Top - Tree Service

Ph: 0405 775 900

- Pruning - Removal - Power line clearing - Palm trees - Can supply eucalypt garden mulch by request

All General Maintenance & Renovations including: Painting | Tiling | Gardening | Plastering | Concreting Carpentry | Plumbing | Paving | Electrical

Horsham Frames & Trusses

Wall Frames, Roof Trusses Commercial & Residential

Matt Liston - 0417 544 614 liston.builders@gmail.com

Proud silver sponsors of Laharum Football Netball ClubAll types of Tree:

H���n� �r����m� �i�� ...

• Digital TV • New house pre-wires • Phone point installations • Pay TV to all TV’s from one box

• New homes • Sheds • Concreting

ABN: 62573872522

AARON DEAN Ph: 0428 195 090

K

B D CONCRETING & BUILDING

SERVICES

Sheds Silos Weighbridges Entertaining Areas Footpaths Garden Edging Exposed Agg

CALL BEAU DICKERSON: 0419 628 294

WRB & SONS PAINTERS ABN: 88 588 471 350

• Interior / Exterior Painting • Residential or Commercial • New Homes or Renovations Phone: 0409 158 679 Email: wrbsonspainters@gmail.com

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

DOMESTIC MAINTENANCE

ABN 698 3206 7186

Page 69

LOCAL

TRADE

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your plumbing & electrical specialists Servicing the Ararat and Stawell areas daily

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P I N N AC L E PLUMBING & MAINTENANCE

Plumbing - Gas Fitting Roofing - General maintenance Gutter cleaning for residential & commercial properties.

PINNACLE@PLUMBING-MAINTENANCE.COM

LIC: 41089

Contact us today for a no obligation, free quote!

Tone Mason: 0474 751 896 Bryan Avory: 0497 832 480

2 Ballinger Street, Horsham

Ph: 5382 3823 • www.wadesgp.com.au

OVER 50 YEARS PLUMBING AND MAINTENANCE EXPERIENCE

• Aluminium & Timber Windows & Doors • Commercial • Shopfronts • Glass • Perspex • Showers • Robes • Splashbacks • Garage Doors • And More

Servicing Wimmera Mallee Area

5382 0885

www.glassworks.com.au

Advertise your business here!

For a small weekly investment you will receive an advertisement (as above) PLUS... Receive bonus radio credit mentions on MIXX FM and 3WM throughout your paper advertising period.

Contact The Weekly Advertiser

Phone: 5382 1351

12 month: $44 • 6 month: $46 • 13 week: $50 (all prices ex. GST)

NEED MILK? WE DELIVER!

Dave Hayter’s HORSHAM

Stumps Removed Quickly & Permanently ~ Clean & Inexpensive

PH: 0448 540 449

Ph. 0474 743 348

grantthegravedigger@gmail.com

ATTENTION FARMERS!

All automotive maintenance and servicing, air-conditioning, roadworthy, brakes and exhaust requirements.

45 DIMBOOLA ROAD, HORSHAM

Sheep, cattle & pigs can be killed, cut, and packed to your individual needs...

For more information & prices call

EDENHOPE

BUTCHERS

AUTH No: AU00880

5585 1597

*New Homes *Renovations *Extensions *Patch-ups *Suspended Ceilings *Rendering *Foam Cladding *Ornate Cornices * All jobs Plaster & Rendering Qualified Tradesmen, Quality Work

Horsham

Phone: 03 5382 2622

AH 5382 3030

FREE QUOTES Call Daniel

Sales & Rentals 31 O’Callaghans Parade, Horsham Ph: 5381 1131

HORSHAM

Specialisingininhouse house restumping restumping & relevelling.

Specialising & relevelling.

Aaron & Brylee Pope Mobile:Pope 0429 008 507 Aaron & Brylee Ah: 03 5382 1585

DB-L37993

DB-L37993

Email: abpope@bigpond.com

Mobile: 0429 008Vic507 PO Box 615, Horsham 3402 Ah: 03 5382 1585 Email: abpope@bigpond.com Page 70

Horsham & Districts Garry 0427 054 461

WE CAN PROVIDE ALL YOUR TRENCHING/BORING NEEDS

WIMMERA FIT A PIT • Trenching • Power • Telephone • Water • Footpaths • Storm Water • Driveways

ROD CARBERRY 0429 811 904

Email: noleen.mays@bigpond.com

T&B F LO O RI N G

GEOS STUMP MUNCHING SERVICE Domestic and rural farm properties

REMOVES TREE STUMPS PERMANENTLY

Carpet and Vinyl

Contact Travis 0419 707 196

PH: 0439 377 524

TANDBFLOORING1@GMAIL.COM

NEED A SKIP?

• Front Lift Bins • Skips • Hook Bins • Wheelie Bins Formerly

8 Turnbull Dr, Horsham • Ph: 03 5381 1300

30 years experience in renovation work Bathroom renovations - decks & verandas - friendly service.

Call for a free quote Dimboola 0498 064 825

s • Shutter s s d g n li in •B • Awn s in a t r u C • hutters • Roller S RSHAM ST, HO HERSON 62A McP 2 4219 8 PH. 03 53

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Email: mittsos58@gmail.com

• Lawn Mowing • Gutter Cleaning • Gardening • Pruning TOTAL GARDEN PROFESSIONALS • Weed Control HIGH QUALITY RELIABLE SERVICE • Pest Control INSURANCE COVER

131 546 www.jimsmowingwv.com.au

W: www.jjrichards.com.au

Dirk’s Carpentry Renovations | BBQ’s | Pizza Ovens Garden Features | Retaining Walls Letterboxes | Brick Fencing

Contact: John 0418 823 224 Josh 0400 020 666

Mob 0414 825 199

Residential, Rural & Commercial

(03) 53 62 62 62

GRACE JAMES • Regular pool servicing • Maintenance checks • Equipment repair & replacement

MILK RUN

Carpenter dirkaschenbrenner2812@gmai.com

SMASH REPAIRS INSURANCE COMPANY APPROVED 26 Gordon Street, Ararat

New Homes Renovations Units, Decks, Pergolas Property Maintenance Commercial & Residential

GOLF CART SALES, SERVICE & REPAIRS Our mobile service unit comes to you!

DEALER

PO BOX 214 NATIMUK VIC 3409 BENPERKINCARTS@GMAIL.COM

CALL BEN 0408 268 424

Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Cooling PH: 03 5382 1375 horsham@laserelectrical.com.au horsham.laserelectrical.com.au Rec No. 14579 ARC AU26861 24 HOUR SERVICE

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

TRADE

DIRECTORY TILING Uniforms • Apparel Pens • Hats • Key Rings • Stubby Holders • Marquees Flags and much more!

Nathan Henry

Bathroom Renovations, Kitchen, Toilet, Waterproofing, Plumbing, Plastering, Carpentry, Painting, Small Extensions 20yrs + Building Experience FREE QUOTES

0418 657 247

sales@ppandu.com.au www.ppandu.com.au

0427 963 906

NOW OPEN AT 50 Darlot St, Horsham

Hopper Electrics P/L

Across town or interstate IN BUS I N E S

S

HORSHAM ELECTRICIAN

www.rowesremovals.com.au > aluminium/timber windows > external/internal doors > door hardware > garage doors/openers > automatic doors > security doors > wardrobe doors > shower screens 8 Sloss St, Horsham 3400 > shopfronts p • 03 5382 4999 > splashbacks f • 03 5382 4773 > balustrades/pool fences e • info@horshamdg.com.au w • www.horshamdg.com.au > glass/perspex/mirrors 24/7 EMERGENCY GLAZING SERVICE

REC. 11963

HORSHAM Ph. 0428 820 175 STAWELL

Experienced in all types of electrical; new installs and repairs, offering 24 hour emergency maintenance!

REC. 11963

Celebrating 80 years!

PH: (03) 5382 3238

hopperelectrics.com.au

local plumbing & electrical specialists

MORROWS TRUCK HIRE

COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC REGISTERED BUILDER Work Covered: Commercial Projects, New Homes, Extensions, Renovations and Maintenance

Free measure & quote!

Horsham CAR SPARES & REPAIRS • Used car sales and servicing LMCT 10773 • Buying and wrecking most makes and models • Mechanical repairs • Pre-roadworthy work • New non-genuine parts and panels

03 5381 2434

BUILDING RELOCATION RESTUMPING

• Packing supplies

Shanan 0448 387 167 Trevor 0418 504 401 bakerbuilders3@bigpond.com

RUSSELL’S PAINTING SERVICE

þ 2m, 3m, 4m, 5m, 6m, 8m & 9m bins available 44 GOLF COURSE RD, HORSHAM. PH 0476 125 232 www.wastebusters.com.au

Individualising your pets’ care Phone us: 5381 1996 Visit our website: yourfamilyvet.com.au for more information or to request an appointment

Qualified Painter & Decorator

MORE THAN 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE Interior / Exterior • House Roofs Shed Spraying • Negotiate Rates

CONTACT RUSSELL - PH: 0488 322 279

Follow us on socials!

BEAUFORT NEWS & TATTS

P&S We can solve all your auto-electrical and air-conditioner issues!

Cross Builders

new home BuildS Renovations - Bathrooms

0428 384 876 www.prestonbuilders.com.au admin@prestonbuilders.com.au

•NEWSPAPERS •MAGAZINES •STATIONARY •CARDS •PHOTOCOPYING •LAMINATING •PHONE/INTERNET RECHARGE •TOYS •SPORTING GOODS •GIFTS •ATM/EFTPOS

The Local Trade Directory offers the only true multi-media platform combining print, radio and online services for businesses to ʻspread the wordʼ in across the Wimmera, Mallee and Grampians.

It’s affordable and effective!

For a small weekly investment you will receive an advertisement (as above) PLUS...

Receive bonus radio credit mentions on MIXX FM and 3WM throughout your paper advertising period.

Contact The Weekly Advertiser

Phone: 5382 1351 12 month: $44 • 6 month: $46 • 13 week: $50 (all prices ex. GST)

For all your sewer blockages, maintenance and general plumbing needs call the friendly team at Exells

OPEN HOURS

• TRUCKS • TRACTORS • CARS • HEADERS

• Family run business • Extensions • Concreting

• New homes • Renovations • Pergolas & Decking

phone | (03) 5382 3810 70 McPherson St, Horsham VIC 3400

Phone - 5382 2817

Peter - 0418 524 879

local plumbing & electrical specialists Wednesday, December 17, 2025

License No. CDB-U 52415

We want you!

Furniture Removals • Freight • Pre-packing Email slingshotremovals@gmail.com Web: www.sshotremovals.com.au

Morrow Motor Group - 5382 6163

43 GOLF COURSE ROAD • PO BOX 943 • HORSHAM 3400

HORSHAM (03) 5381 0622

– Local, regional, Wimmera & Interstate

Starting at just $150 a day!

Ideal for anyone moving house or businesses moving stock.

Call David - 0437 985 319

Ph. 0476 125 232

Hire a skip!

• Small, Big or Biggest Freight Truck Options • Up to 8.3t Capacity • Up to 12 pallet floor space

DB-U 39486

LOCAL

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MONDAY to FRIDAY 6am - 5pm SATURDAY 6am - 12:30 pm, SUNDAY Closed

66 - 69 NEILL STREET, BEAUFORT PH 5349 2380, 0419 471 309

facebook.com/wadeshorsham • Licence # PIC 316600 AU29407 REC 31566

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Page 71

MULTI MEDIA As part of an all-inclusive

Classifieds RUN IT TILL YOU SELL IT

With The Weekly Advertiser’s Run It Till You Sell It, your classified advertisement will run in the paper every week until you sell the item or six months have passed (conditions apply).

Prices start at $33 for the first 12 words or less* *$6 per 4 words thereafter. *This offer is not applicable to businesses.

EXTRA OPTIONS Photos $25, colour text $17.

package your advertisement will also appear on the digital version of The Weekly Advertiser located at www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au which is promoted via Facebook on a weekly basis.

DISPLAY ADVERTISEMENTS: Prices start at $15.00 per single column cm. *Multiple week specials available.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

PERSONAL NOTICES: $12.50 per single column cm.

Your classifieds team

GARAGE SALES: $52.25 inc GST includes a display advertisement in the paper and mentions on the radio.

Death Notices

CAMERON, Colin Robert ‘Bob’

Passed away on December 13, 2025 aged 90 years.

Dearly loved husband of Bev (dec).

Loving father and fatherin-law of Alister & Karen; Leona & Troy; Stuart & Shelley; Scott & Shona.

Adored Pa to all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

SIMPSON, Fred

Grampians Health is saddened by the passing of Fred Simpson, a respected and much loved member of our Horsham volunteering team.

We extend our sincerest condolences to Robyn and family.

Newspaper classifieds continue to be a trusted marketing tool and The Weekly Advertiser classified staff continue to give you the best customer service. Contact us today via online, phone or in person at our office.

Funeral Notices

Bereavement Thanks

HEDT, Max Louis

Thank you

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Max Louis Hedt will take place at the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Horsham on Monday, January 5, 2026 commencing at 2pm.

Privately cremated.

The service may also be viewed online at youtube. com/@horshamlutheran churchaustr7146

Reunited with Mum

STEHN, Kevin Charles

FECHNER, Timothy David ‘Tim’ 16.05.1971 – 22.11.2025 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Tim, who died tragically as a result of an accident.

Dearly loved son of Annette and Peter (dec). Fond brother of Sharyn and Andrew.

Proud father of Sophie and Darcy.

Fond uncle of Emily, Gabrielle, Kobe, and Torin.

Brother-in-law of Andrew.

Special friend of Baillie.

Rest in peace, my dear boy.

Will miss you forever.

— Mum

Horsham & District Funerals Dylan & Amity Hartwich

5382 1149

Passed away on December 10, 2025 aged 91 years.

Dearly loved son of William & Grace (both dec).

Loving brother and brother-in-law to Alice & Peter (both dec), Betty & Brian (dec), Colin & Julianne.

Adored uncle to all of his nieces and nephews.

Passed away on December 1, 2025 aged 87 years.

Dearly loved husband of Gwenda (dec).

Loving father of Michelle, Paquita and Rolf.

Adored MaxPa to all his grandchildren.

Isaiah 40:31

HEDT, Max Louis

2-7-1938 to 1-12-2025 87 years Dad has out-landed in Heaven’s paddock.

It’s paradise there and Mum is waiting, as usual.

Thanks for being a beacon of light, hope, faith and family.

We love you.

Already missed.

Michelle & Paquita, Eleni & Jonty, Hamish & Rory

STEHN, Kevin Charles The Funeral of Kevin Charles Stehn will take place at The Graveside, Goroke Cemetery on Thursday, 18 December 2025 commencing at 1pm.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

A Loved and Respected friend and neighbour In keeping with Glenice’s wishes a Private Cremation has been held.

~ CLARK ~ Elma

The family of Elma Clark wish to sincerely thank all those who attended her funeral, sent cards, rang and passed on their condolences at the time of her passing.

Special thanks to Wimmera Funerals and Susan Hobbs for their gentle caring at a time when we needed it most.

A very special thank you also to the McPherson Smith Residential Care home for their excellent caring of Mum in her final months.

The professional interactions we had were always appreciated and we know Mum was cared for lovingly and with dignity.

Thank you

~ WARRICK ~ Yvonne

Edwin, Donna, Wendy, Robyn, Mark and families wish to express our sincere thanks to everyone who sent cards, flowers, food and messages on the passing of Yvonne.

Your thoughtfulness was a great comfort.

W.B. Gardiner & Son 0407 340 064

Funeral Directors

Funeral Notices

Our professional staff will ensure your family is provided with the highest level of care available.

CAMERON, Colin Robert ‘Bob’ Bob Cameron will be farewelled at a private family gathering.

Ph: 5382 1149 | Email: admin@hdf.com.au Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member Event Services

How are you expected to deal with the loss of someone you love?

It’s a tough time and there’s so much to organise. Choose the right people to take care of it all.

Creative & igns Traditional Des

Horsham Florist 51 Roberts Ave, Horsham

www.horshamflowerdelivery.com.au

5382 1834

Page 72

Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

of Warracknabeal, on December 9th 2025

Funeral Directors Warracknabeal

HEDT, Max Louis

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Reunited with loved ones

THOMAS, Glenice Andrea

DEADLINE 10am Tuesday before publication, this includes payment and advertisement details.

Run It Till You Sell It advertisements are subject to review after six months with a lowcost fee to continue. Only applicable for one item per advertisement. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement. It is the responsibility of the advertiser to notify the publisher of any errors on the first day of publication. Every care is taken to prevent errors and accidental omissions but no financial responsibility can be accepted for loss resulting from such an error or omission.

Phone 5382 1351 email: horsham@aceradio.com.au online: www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Death Notices

PAYMENT: Mastercard or Visa card payments via phone or online. Alternatively, cash or eftpos available at 2 Stawell Road, Horsham.

Pre-arrange your wishes with Trevor Bysouth & Daughter of

5381 1444 (All Hours) www.wimmerafunerals. com.au

ABN 16 064 882 042

accommodation

Animals & Accessories

caravans

Bristlenose catfish, great tank cleaners $5ea until sold out Ph 2007 Billabong pop-top Port Fairy 4-bedroom getaway 0474159010 after 6.30pm caravan, EC, double bed, air with pool table – just $1500! Call Budgies, including white to con, 3way fridge, elec brakes, Langley’s now 03 5568 2899 yellow, assorted colours $10 gas and elec cooking, new each Ph 0428010996 to book Cocker Spaniel pups for sale, awning $19,500 Ph 0409182376 purebred pups black, female 2012 Regent Cruiser, 18’, Tare Animals & Accessories available from September, 1800kg, shower & toilet, single microchip# 978142000982266, beds, all modern comforts, Source# R185238 Ph as new tyres & battery, 0429912620 semi-offroad, only travelled a Kelpie x Staghound male pup, 6.5 months old, few thousand km’s, priced to sell sandy colour, microchip # $31,000 ono Ph 03 53870522 953010007025025280, vac x 3, basic handling, is affectionate, big, and boisterous, POA Ph 0428994210 Available now 3 Spoodle boys & 2 Spoodle girls are looking for their Furever Families, born on the 16th of October, raised in a loving family home with 2014 Billabong Grove 17’6 children and other dogs, cats twin beds, toilet & shower, large and farm animals have had fridge, lots of storage, stored their 6 week vet check with undercover when not traveling, first vaccination, microchip and more extras $30,000 Ph have been wormed regularly, 0419434790 microchip# 95600019516180, 956000019521435, Purebreed Dalmation 956000019515465, Puppies, 12 weeks old, 1 9 5 6 0 0 0 0 1 9 5 2 3 0 1 7 , male, 1 female, all vaccinated 956000019519593, source# and microchipped, source# RB265884 located just out M B 2 9 2 9 9 2 9 5 3 0 1 0 0 0 of Stawell $3000 please call microchip# MB2929927970314, Coronet prince Simone on 0400035456 for MB2929927970359 $1800each 2014 Ph Rob 0439878845 FS2-6150, Queen bed, ensuite, more information Roosters, ducks and guinea full oven, microwave, HWS, fowl wanted to buy Ph washing machine, 3 way fridge, The Weekly Advertiser 0480137184 air conditioner, solar panel, has welcomes your advertising.

We are required strictly by law gas, 12 volt, 240 volt and awning to include specific information $38,000 Ph 0481481902 on some items when publishing your adv your obligations are as follows: ANIMALS *All “for sale” or “to give away” advertisements, for either cats or dogs must include one of the following: • Individual microchip numbers • Vet certificate to exclude individual animals from needing microchips • Domestic animal-business number PLUS a source number from the Pet Exchange Register LIVESTOCK *Selling, giving away or bartering of all livestock must include a Property Identification Code (PIC number) in the advertisement.

*The Weekly Advertiser reserves the right to accept or refuse advertisements.

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

SquareMeater x Murray Gray, 4 yr old gray bull, 3yr old brown bull, a few cows, proven breeders, compact and muscly, commercial herd, NLIS, vaccinated, PIC# 3YKM L014 Ph 0428994210 Warracknabeal

caravans

2017 Franklin Core 22’, one owner, excellent condition, gas heater, twin bunks, washing machine, $1000+ extras, $59,900 Ph 0401986201 Annexe 3 sides and poles, and pole container, suits 13’ awning, GC $250 Ph 5387 0522

2006 Concept Ascot 18’, low kms, EC, stored under cover, lots of extras $17,000 Ph Black series total off road, all extras $50,000 Ph 0428788212 0413445347 Wednesday, December 17, 2025

caravans

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 Journey Outback, independant suspension, single beds, all Jayco features plus diesel heater, shedded &spotless $46,500 Ph 0429842224

caravans

for sale

for sale

Stereo $200, Outdoor setting $150, a round table and chairs REDUCED $290, a beautiful organ paid $8000 selling for $3500, Chiffonier paid $950 selling for $350, ironing board $60, green leather couches,1 x 2 seater and 1 x 3 seater, pristine condition, paid $6500 sell for $4000, all needs to go Flat deck tandem trailer, by 27th October Ph 53824788 Clothes & Accessories 4.2m x 2.3m, $4500 onoPh Toro zero turn 42 inch deck, 0407285097 2 years old, just had full Folding bike with training service with new blades, great stand $350, Snow sled condition, less than 15hrs use, 1050x500 $45 Ph 0418992631 $6000ono Ph Tim 0418258787 FOR SALE Teak TV Cabinet 2 shelves 2 glass doors at bottom, marine 151H x 104W x 700 as new $60. Outdoor setting laminex oval table 4 chairs washable cushions $90, Bird bath large $60, large towing mirrors $40.

Deb Dress For Sale, Size: Ph 0409967815, Pick Up 10-12, worn once, excellent Horsham. condition, dry cleaned, $400 Ph: Fresh Farm eggs! $5 a dozen 0429802767 Ph 0423182267 CCE cage on wheels 6x4 well made $400 ono, 500 gallon ex fuel tank $100 ono, Coolgardie safe $100 ono, Ute crate, 6x4 tub tight $50 ono, Bailey extension ladder 5.3 extends to 6.3 $500 Roadstar semi off road ono, new Holland Mower GC 20’, 2000 model, registered, photos available $14,000 Ph with parts, 44g drums ideal for grain feeding cattle, best offer 0428847475 Ph 0429857207

farm machinery

Industrial Extensions Ladder (Gorilla), closed 3.7 EXT 8.5 15’ fibreglass clinker inboard $475, Ph 53826461 or 0429 boat, no motor, make an offer 309 491 Ph 0407179433

Kimberley Off Road Kamper, genuine all Australian made in Ballina NSW $8000 Ph 042753521 Motorhome Jayco Fiat Conquest, model FA 25.3, 4080B with forks and bucket, 4yrs old, $13,000 of extras, GC $15,000 Ph 0419389693 EC, 10,000kms $148,000 Ph 0428340802

Inter Truck C1600, 72 Butter Box model, Jonker hoist, 14’, new head and radiator, front new tyres $5000 Ph 0429857207

L shaped lockable 5 glass shelf display case, with 5 downlights, 500mm lockable storage at bottom, 2.125 mm x 3.180mm x 400mm wide x 2.14mm high, $6200 ono, or lay by, can be dismantled to a flatpack, MINERALS NOT INCLUDED Ph 0428564422

Slasher 3PL J.Berands EP135, 4’6’’ cut wheel kit as new $2300, Small Bale Pickup loader Irish Masseuse Therapeutic $120, Hay Stack Elevator $120, REDUCED 1998 Cameron PH 0427 871 404 Dual-Pro massage chair, 2 yrs old, as new, cost $11,000 sell Canvas Camper, fully enclosed Small square bale hay stack $5,000 ono Ph 0413832765 annexe, off road tires, double elevator $120 Ph 0494034244 Ararat innerspring mattress, always stored undercover $4000ono Pea straw small square bales for sale Ph 0439553575 $8 per bale, great garden

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

20ft shipping container, $3500 ono Ph 0407285097

REDUCED New Age 2013, queen bed, TV, large fridge, microwave, gas/electric hot plates, toilet, shower, washing machine, full annex, sway bars, $39,000 Ph 0427778747

Bath Cast Iron, EC Pale Pink $200 Ph 53826461 or 0429 309 491

REDUCED Toyota Coaster camper, 2 seater, diesel heater, 1hz motor, solar and 12v awning much more $30,000 Ph 0418325662

mulch, pickup or delivery to Ph 0488303725

Radial arm saw bench OMGA 240v, tungsten blade, $460 Ph 0428535646

Immaculate family ski boat, 1993 Ski craft 5.6 meters, 350 Chev, regularly serviced, new gel coat, new bimini, refurbished rolco easy tow trailer, stereo system, and high pole included, boat rego CV679, trailer rego D81783 $15,900 Ph 0409180016 The Weekly Advertiser welcomes your advertising.

We are required strictly by law to include specific information on some items when publishing your advertisement.

A snapshot of your obligations are as follows: BOATS All advertisements for boats must include: • Hull number or registration number of the boat If a trailer is included with the boat, the advertisement must also include: • Registration number or chassis number of the trailer.

Bikes one ladys one mans, good order, $170 each ono Ph 0429820692 Brick pavers, H shaped, beige colour, 1600 $800 Ph 0459027575 Stawell Camper Trailer, all excellent condition $1500 Ph 0478254195

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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The Weekly Advertiser welcomes your advertising.

We are required strictly by law to include specific information on some items when publishing your advertisement.

A snapshot of your obligations are as follows: ROAD VEHICLES All advertisements for road vehicles must include a price, as well as: • A registration number, if registered • Either an engine number, VIN or chassis number if the vehicle is not registered.

Wanted Land to share-farm or lease anywhere south of Horsham and accross to the Grampians, from 50 to 600 acres, cropping country preferred Ph Roger Hallam at Mockinya 0418822700 Wanted, Billy Goat service for 2 milking goats Ph 53840253

Work Wanted Help Wanted, Spring/ House cleaning, located in Warracknabeal, price and time negotiable Ph 0435592080 Page 73

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

St Paul VI Catholic Parish Wimmera-Mallee

Mental health contacts Lifeline ��������������������� 13 11 14 1800Respect ������������� 1800 737 732 MensLine ��������������� 1300 789 978 Suicide Callback Service ���� 1300 659 467 Beyond Blue ������������� 1300 224 636 Kids Helpline ������������� 1800 55 1800 Headspace �������������� 1800 650 890 Mental Health Access Line ��� 1800 011 511 13YARN Crisis Line ������������ 13 96 76

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR TRADING HOURS:

Christmas Mass Times 2025

The Weekly Advertiser, 3WM and MIXX FM office will be closed from Wednesday, December 24, 2025.

We will re-open on Monday, January 5, 2026 from 8.30am.

Christmas Eve Vigil Mass Murtoa - 5:30pm Nhill - 6pm Horsham - 7pm Carols, prior to 7:30pm Vigil Mass Warracknabeal - 8.30pm

Black Dog Institute www.blackdoginstitute.org.au Suicide & Mental Illness www.mindframe.org.au Indigenous supports www.wellmob.org.au

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PUBLIC NOTICES

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Have a Safe and Merry Christmas!

Christmas Day Mass Horsham - 9am Hopetoun - 9am

The Weekly Advertiser will take a break over the Christmas / New Year period. The last edition of The Weekly Advertiser for 2025 is TUESDAY, December 23, 2025. The next edition will be Wednesday, January 14, 2026.

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horsham@ontgroup.com.au

Wimmera Wastewater Treatment is looking for a motivated and reliable Handyman / Service Technician.

If you enjoy problem-solving, working independently and providing high-quality customer service, this is a great opportunity to build a long-term career.

Key Responsibilities • Service, maintain and repair water treatment systems

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• Carry out routine inspections, testing and water quality monitoring • Diagnose faults and perform corrective maintenance • Communicate professionally with clients and provide technical support What We’re Looking For • Strong problem solving and a degree of mechanical aptitude • A can-do attitude and willingness to learn • Current driver’s licence

horsham@ontgroup.com.au

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• Trustworthiness and the ability to work autonomously Why Join WWT?

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• Full on the job training provided • Work vehicle provided • Competitive salary, with incentives

Christian Devotion

• Supportive and friendly team culture that values accuracy, growth and reliability

Evil at it’s Worst If Mary is the most famous woman in history, Herod goes down as one of the most infamous! A few years ago, I visited Israel. You literally can’t go anywhere without seeing Herod’s influence. One of the great ancient builders, he constructed the current temple (known as one of the 7 Ancient Wonders of The World). He also built a city dedicated Caesar (Caesarea) which boasted a bigger Coloseum than Rome, a 15,000 seat outdoor theatre and a hippodrome bigger than anything in the Empire. But he was a vain man, and ruthless too.

He murdered his own wife and children because he feared they were plotting against him. Augustus dryly remarked “I’d sooner be one of Herod’s pigs, that one of his sons.” In the Christmas story, he slaughters hundreds of babies trying to eliminate what he thinks is the next threat to his throne, Jesus.

How does someone with everything become so afraid? Because once you crave something, it gets a hold of you! Absolute power corrupts absolutely. Herod is a lesson to all driven people. As Jesus said “What does it

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profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?”. The answer… NOTHING! Dave Tolputt - Ararat Life Links Church of Christ

Page 74

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Situations Vacant

Situations Vacant

Catalogue distributors wanted

Waranga Dissolved Air Flotation Facility

• Horsham • Stawell • Ararat Administration Support / Works Coordinator Immediate Start | Applications close 16/01/2026 Unless filled prior | Full-time Laser Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Cooling Horsham is looking for an enthusiastic team player to join our administration teams as a Works Coordinator.

This varied, fast-paced position suits someone who enjoys coordinating tasks, supporting field teams, delivering great customer service and keeping operations running smoothly.

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Key Responsibilities • Coordinate and schedule daily maintenance jobs • Manage incoming calls, emails, and customer enquiries • Prepare job files, quotes, work orders, and invoices • Assist with tracking job progress, parts orders, and technician notes • Support compliance documentation, safety processes, and reporting What We’re looking For

Contract Number: C01454

Weekly pay Smartphone required ivehub.com.au Direct Care Worker – Stawell and St Arnaud Casual – $40.64 per hour including 25% casual loading Are you genuine and passionate about working with people to remain living independent? This is the role for you!

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Working a Monday to Friday roster, the position is responsible for supporting clients to achieve and maintain wellbeing and independence.

For a full position description and to apply by Sunday, January 4, 2026, please visit our website: www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/Careers BRENT McALISTER CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

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LOOKING FOR SOME EXTRA CASH?

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This Contract includes the following scope of works: > Modification to the existing Waranga Channel Pump Station operation. > Site preparation, civil works and building construction, including the construction of sludge management lagoons. > Detailed design and construction of 10 ML/day Dissolved Air Floatation (DAF) facility. > Detailed design and construction of a 1 ML clarified water storage tank. > Detailed design and construction of DAF facility diversion and return system with the existing South-West Loddon Pipeline. > On-site waste stream management system. > Design and construction of all electrical, PLC and SCADA systems. > Testing and commissioning of all completed works.

A non-compulsory pre-tender online MS Teams presentation will be held on Tuesday 13 January 2026 at 11 am and will be repeated on Monday 19 January 2026 at 11 am.

A compulsory pre-tender site inspection will be held in Borung,, Victoria, on Tuesday 20 January 2026 at 12 noon.

To register for these sessions, please contact Senior Project Engineer Jonathon Horsfall.

More information regarding this tender is available from the Buying for Victoria website, tenders.vic.gov.au. Enquiries may be directed to Mr Jonathon Horsfall on 1300 659 961.

Tenders close 2 pm on Thursday 29 January 2026.

GWMWater reserves the right to accept tenders in part.

The lowest or any tender may not necessarily be accepted.

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Page 75

Sport

Brought to you by

The Morning Rush

Weekdays from 6am

Day Birchip Running of the Bulls Santa race ready

T

he successful applicants for Victoria’s first harness slot race – to be staged at Birchip on March 8, 2026 – have been confirmed, with half the field having Wimmera-Mallee connections.

A mix of industry participants and supporters, sporting clubs, friends and family are set to take part in the inaugural Running of the Bulls at Birchip.

A selection panel including representatives from Harness Racing Victoria, Birchip Harness Racing Club and Buloke Shire Council met to settle on the nine parties following a six-week expression of interest period.

Major sponsor Cargill Cares for Community receives the 10th slot as part of its significant financial contribution to the event.

Each horse in the final field will be selected by the slot-holders, which have a position for the 2026 and 2027 races.

The slot-holders are as follows: Giddy Up with Gareth Hall, SEN Radio; Fillies In Charge, consisting

“The concept was something that had been talked about for many years here in Birchip and we are so pleased that it’s finally coming to fruition.

The town and local community here is buzzing with excitement”

– Brad Sharp

of Birchip and district women; DunnEzy Seed Cleaning, led by Horsham trainer Aaron Dunn; Birchip-Watchem Football Club; Murchison-Toolamba Football Netball Club; Lewis family, managed by Horsham president Terry Lewis; Ashwood Racing, Axedale trainer Alex Ashwood; Coffey family, managed by Caulfield Cup-winning jockey Harry Coffey, who has significant ties to Birchip; Crown Lodge Racing, Shepparton-region trainer Nathan Jack; and Cargill Cares for Community.

Harness Racing Victoria chief executive Matt Isaacs congratulated the

Birchip Harness Racing Club for its passion and commitment to help make the Running of the Bulls idea a reality.

“The annual Birchip meeting has long been one of the special days on the Victorian harness racing calendar and it will go to a whole new level next year with the inclusion of this race,” he said.

“It’s great that many new faces to harness racing want to get involved, broadening the sport’s reach and fanbase.

“The Running of the Bulls has been designed with country Victoria at its core, and I can’t wait to see who wins the inaugural race in March next year.”

Birchip Harness Racing Club president Brad Sharp said his committee was thrilled to deliver Victoria’s first harness slot race.

“The concept was something that had been talked about for many years here in Birchip and we are so pleased that it’s finally coming to fruition,” he said.

“The town and local community

here is buzzing with excitement.

“Everybody within the industry knows what an incredible day Birchip puts on – both on and off the track – and we will make it bigger and better in 2026.”

Thanks to the generous support of Cargill Cares for Community and the slot holders, the feature event will be run for $125,000 in each of the first two years.

The 2026 race conditions have been crafted to draw a field of emerging types and country warriors, with the criteria: a 2150-metre pacing race for horses four year and older, with a preferential barrier draw; horses must have a national rating of no more than 90 and have not won a race worth $50,000 or more since January 1, 2024; horses with a national rating of 91-plus are eligible, providing they haven’t won a race worth $15,000 or more; and the horse must be Victorian-trained from December 1, 2025.

The MIXX FM Santa Day races at Horsham and District Racing Club will be the place to be this Sunday, with festive season celebrations in full force.

People can enjoy the magic of Christmas while experiencing up-close racing action, and with the weather forecast to be 26 degrees, the race track is expected to be a site for many to enjoy end-of-year gatherings.

With live music from HeadRusH, playing non-stop hits from the 1960s to current; a children’s activity circuit; face-painting; and an appearance by Santa, the event is a family-friendly day out.

There will be food and cold drinks on course, with seven races scheduled featuring plenty of Wimmera trainers and horses.

While marquee and umbrella packages are sold out, general admission is still available.

Tickets can be pre-purchased online at country.racing.com/horsham or on the day at the gate.

Meek medals at states Wimmera athlete Asha Meek has added another gold medal to her collection after competing at the Victorian Track and Field Relay Championships in Melbourne at the weekend.

Meek, who competes for Ballarat’s Eureka Athletics Club and also trains at Stawell Little Athletics Centre, was a member of the winning under-16 girls four-by-400-metre Ballarat team.

The team defended its gold medal from the previous year, with Meek running the first leg.

She also picked up a bronze as a member of the Ballarat team that finished third in the under-16 medley relay final; ran the third leg of a four-by-100-metre team that finished second in its heat and sixth in the final; and was one of three team members in a long-jump relay final, which combines the best jumps of all three athletes.

Also competing at the championships in a combined Ballarat team was Horsham’s Kynan Stasinowsky, placing third in a heat of the open-age men’s four-by-100-metre relay and 11th in the long jump relay final.

Athletics coach Ricky Price, who trains Meek, said she had surpassed his expectations for the meet after a disrupted lead-up.

“She’s had a few issues that have interrupted her training over the past couple of months,” he said.

“I didn’t think she’d be able to run a very good 400 because of the preparation she’s had, but she ran a pretty reasonable race.

“I thought she’d struggle but she got through it all.

“She had a pretty big day on the Saturday. She lasted better and has recovered more quickly than I thought she might.

“I thought she was a little bit more underdone than what she showed.

“From my point of view it’s been a really good fitness session for her.”

Next for Meek will be the heptathlon at January’s Victorian Combined Event Championships in Cranbourne – an event at which fellow Wimmera athlete Charlie Inkster is also set to compete.

WINNING FORM: Asha Meek passes the baton to her Ballarat Eureka Athletics Club team-mate in winning style. The team took out the Victorian Track and Field Relay Championships under-16 girls four-by-400-metre event on Saturday.

THE GIFT OF SPORT Page 76

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Brought to you by

The Morning Crew Weekdays from 6am to 9am

Players score festive break

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

A

forfeit by Kalkee in its fixture against Central Park left Horsham Lawn’s match against St Michaels as the only pennant game played in the Central Wimmera Tennis Association on Saturday.

In the final round before a Christmas-New Year break, Lawn was too strong for the Saints on their Robinson Street home courts, winning 10 sets, 100 games to four sets, 66 games.

In search of an upset against the reigning premiers, the Saints got off to a hot start with wins in two of the four doubles rubbers – Eli Bailey and Chris Ellis defeating Lawn’s D’Artagnan Walls and Frazer Shurdington 8-5, while Mia Rees and Kassie Peachey triumphed 8-4 against Ella Thompson and Hayley Reid in the women’s half of the draw.

But Lawn kept proceedings on an even footing, as August Koch and Mitch Fromm beat St Michaels’ Peter Hayes and Archer Reading 8-5, while Emma Streeter and Chrisy Holmes downed Violet McGennisken and Barb Crough 8-2.

Bailey and Hayes kept the momentum up for St Michaels in their singles rubbers, with Bailey defeating Walls in an 8-7 tiebreak and Hayes outduelling Koch 8-4.

However the Lawn women knotted

up the scores again, as Thompson beat Rees 8-4 and Streeter blanked McGennisken 8-0.

The match-up turned firmly in Lawn’s favour thereafter, with the visitors winning each of the final six doubles rubbers.

The result all but guaranteed a second-place finish for Lawn on the ladder.

With five rounds remaining when play resumes on January 31, the reigning premiers trail undefeated ladder-leader Central Park by four wins, while they are now four wins ahead of third-placed St Michaels, with Kalkee fourth.

Results Seniors

Pennant: Horsham Lawn 10-100 d St Michaels 4-66; Kalkee forfeited to Central Park.

A Special: Central Park 10-97 d Brimpaen 4-61; Drung South 9-91 d Natimuk 5-63; Horsham Lawn O’Connor 14-112 d Horsham Lawn Dorman 0-51.

A Grade: Horsham Lawn Tigers 9-80 d Horsham Lawn Ahern 3-61; St Michaels forfeited to Haven Red; Horsham Lawn McGennisken forfeited to Homers; Central Park 8-78 d Haven Blue 4-63.

B Special: Natimuk forfeited to Laharum; Haven 13-90 d Horsham Lawn Bardell 3-53; Horsham Lawn Savage 11-77 d Central Park 5-53.

Juniors

Other grades

The association’s other grades also played their final matches before the break, with Horsham Lawn O’Connor earning intra-club bragging rights over Horsham Lawn Dorman with a crushing 14-112 to 0-51 A Special result.

But the win was not enough to vault Lawn O’Connor to top spot on the ladder, with Central Park hanging onto its perch thanks to a 10-sets-tofour win over third-placed Brimpaen.

Meanwhile fifth-placed Drung South kept itself in the finals hunt by downing bottom side Natimuk 9-91 to 5-63.

A Grade saw Haven Red and Homers win their respective matches against St Michaels and Horsham

Sport

FOCUS: Horsham Lawn Bardell’s Rory Starick is a picture of concentration in her match against Haven in B Special competition on Saturday.

Lawn McGennisken by forfeit, with Central Park retaining its place atop the ladder thanks to an 8-78 to 4-63 win over Haven Blue and Horsham Lawn Tigers downing Horsham Lawn Ahern 9-80 to 3-61 in another intra-club meeting.

Ladder-leader Laharum was the beneficiary of a forfeit from Natimuk in B Special, with second-placed Horsham Lawn Savage taking care of fellow finals aspirant Central Park 11 sets to five, and Haven downing Horsham Lawn Bardell 13-3.

Open: Central Park White 6-36 d Central Park Yellow 0-13; Central Park Orange 4-33 d Horsham Lawn Gold 2-223; Central Park Blue 4-33 d Horsham Lawn Green 2-25.

Section 1 Boys: Haven 4-29 d Horsham Lawn Green 2-18; Horsham Lawn Gold 4-26 d Horsham Lawn White 2-24.

Section 1 Girls: Horsham Lawn White 5-34 d Horsham Lawn Gold 1-14; Horsham Lawn Green 4-29 d Haven 2-23.

Section 2 Boys: Central Park 3-28 d Natimuk 3-27; Horsham Lawn Green 4-29 d Haven 2-22.

Section 2 Girls: Homers 3-29 d Central Park 3-22; Horsham Lawn Red 4-31 d Horsham Lawn Gold 2-20; Horsham Lawn White 5-33 d Natimuk Yellow 1-16; Natimuk Blue 5-31 d Horsham Lawn Black 1-16; Haven 5-32 d Horsham Lawn Green 1-9.

Section 3 Boys: Haven Blue 5-30 d Haven Green 1-15; Horsham Lawn Green 6-36 d Central Park 0-19.

Section 4 Girls: Haven 6-36 d Central Park 0-13; Horsham Lawn 5-35 d Homers 1-22.

Match Play Section 5 and 6: All matches abandoned due to heat.

B SPECIAL: Haven’s Hayley Ramsey and Todd Clark keep their eyes on the ball against Horsham Lawn Bardell in B Special competition on Saturday. Ramsey won three of her four sets in Haven’s 13-90 defeat of Horsham Lawn Bardell, 3-53, while Clark won two of his sets in the victory.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

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Page 77

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Page 78

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Sport

Brought to you by

The Morning Crew Weekdays from 6am to 9am

Bellman savours victory I

raced by Gary and Tracey Hull, who bred the horse from their former South Australian Oaks winner Sundon’s Pride.

“Gary and Tracey had a plan to go to the best stallions so they can compete against the best and they’ve got their moment in the sun with an absolute star. I can’t thank them enough for entrusting me with him,” Bellman said.

Mecarno heads off to the paddock shortly, with a record of nine wins, two placings and $129,990 from 15 starts.

BY JOHN DUNNE and TONY LOGAN

t took Michael Bellman 28 years to land his first Group 1 success and now he seemingly wins them for fun, thanks to his exciting young trotter Mecarno.

Mecarno, a $1.50 favourite, chalked up his third Group 1 win in the past six weeks with Bellman in the sulky when he led most of the way in the Breeders Crown three-year-old Trotting Colts and Geldings final at Melton on Saturday.

With his main danger Enchauffour, James Herbertson, on his back, Mecarno reeled off a 27.7 last 400 metres to score by seven metres in a mile rate of 1:58.5.

A delighted Bellman savoured another Group 1 victory after the race.

“They all get sweeter,” he said.

Bellman said the winner’s Breeders Crown preparation was not ideal. With good horses comes a lot of stress and he’s given us a few headaches this week, worrying about allergies and stuff like that. I’ve got no words, he’s just a star,” he said.

“He deserves a good little break now and we’ll come back and see what his spoils are next year.”

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Dunn’s day

Horsham horseman Aaron Dunn piloted his six-year-old gelding Hot Deal to take out the Vale Joey Thompson Pace at Mildura on Wednesday last week.

The son of Americian Ideal USA and Hotazgabby did it tough, working forward from the start of the 1790m sprint trip to be outside leader All Da Rage, Luke Dunne, at the bell. The tempo immediately lifted to a 28.1 quarter and the two frontrunners fought it out over the final stages with Hot Deal gaining the upper hand close to the line to score by a head in 1:56.7.

Dunn’s ultra-consistent pacer now boasts a record of 21 wins, 26 minors and $231,465 from his 75 career starts.

ALL SMILES: Connections of Mecarno, with Michael Bellman driving, celebrate a Group 1 win at Melton on Saturday night.

Picture: Stuart McCormick

Manning books spot

Trainer Peter Manning and three-year-old filly Huxham Chubb booked their spot in a $6000 final at Terang next week when the trotting bred pacer led from go to whoa in her heat at Geelong last week.

The filly is by the ill-fated sire Aldebaran Eagle USA from the former, smart squaregaiter Pocket Fantasy, which has left six individual winners of 69 trot races, including the outstanding Plymouth Chubb.

Win for Wind Storm

Charlton Harness Racing Club raced last week under the shadow of the recent passing of past

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president and life member Joey Thompson.

Charlton trainer John Tormey produced three-year-old filly Wind Storm for an impressive debut victory in the Merry Christmas Charlton HRC Members Maiden Trot with Jack Laugher in the sulky.

There were some anxious moments early for trainer, driver and owner Alison Tormey when Wind Storm broke in the score up and caused a false start.

It was all smooth sailing, however, at take two and Laugher was able to work forward from gate five to take the lead after they had gone 700 metres.

CBL accolades Ararat and Horsham players were prominent among the Country Basketball League south-west conference’s end-of-season awards this month.

Ararat Redbacks guard Zac Dunmore was unsurprisingly named the conference most valuable player after one of the most dominant individual seasons in recent league history.

Dunmore averaged an incredible 43.6 points per game, with a season high of 68 points in round two against Hamilton.

His season total of 305 points was 44 more than second-placed Josh Miller of Hamilton, despite the fact that Miller played in three more games than Dunmore.

The Redback dynamo also led the conference in made free throws by a staggering margin of 24, and was equal fourth in made three pointers, showcasing his ability to score from all levels.

Horsham Hornet Cody Bryan also won recognition for an outstanding season by picking up his fourth defensive player of the year award.

The versatile big man has set the defensive standard in recent seasons and shouldered an even larger burden this season with the Hornets fielding a smaller team compared with recent years.

Bryan’s team-mate Micah Livingstone, who won last season’s MVP award, was named in the league’s all-star five.

If not for the individual brilliance of Dunmore, Livingstone could have been in contention for backto-back MVPs after upping his scoring average from 18 points per game last season to nearly 24 a game this year.

Also named to the all-star five in the women’s competition was Horsham guard Georgia Hiscock.

The Hornets captain averaged 18 points per game with a season high of 31 against Colac, and was among the conference’s top-10 players in every scoring statistic despite missing three games during the season.

– Colin MacGillivray

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Outright wins imminent

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

S

wifts-Great Western, Noradjuha-Toolondo, Laharum and West Wimmera are all in strong positions after day one of Horsham Cricket Association’s round eight A Grade matches, each with chances for outright wins when play resumes this weekend.

The Bullants, playing at Horsham City Oval, had arguably the most impressive performance in the first half of the two-day round, securing first-innings points against visiting Lubeck-Murtoa and nearly completing an outright win in one day.

The visiting Mudlarks elected to bat after winning the toss but were unable to withstand a withering attack spearheaded by Bullant captain Tony Caccaviello.

Caccaviello struck in the sixth over, trapping Mudlark opening batsman Cam Newell leg before wicket for five, before Matt Combe followed up with a double-wicket maiden in the following over to claim Shannon Reddie, 11, caught and bowled and Jarvis Mitchell, bowled for a golden duck.

Josh Hedt, who finished the innings unbeaten on 25, was the only Lubeck-Murtoa batsman other than Reddie to reach double figures, with five ducks on the Mudlarks’ score sheet as they were bowled out for 69 inside 27 overs.

Caccaviello surrendered only 12 runs from eight overs bowled, claiming four wickets in the process, while Combe and Heath Lang had two apiece.

In contrast to the Mudlarks, runs flowed easily for the Bullants, with Combe reaching 43 and Jason Harris making 52 batting at three and four respectively.

Phoenix Hopper finished unbeaten on 51, with his half-century coming in just 37 balls, while Caccaviello blasted 31 from 17 deliveries before being caught off the bowling of Pramodh Pramodh.

The skipper declared with his team 6-209, giving the Bullants a first-innings lead of 140.

Combe and Caccaviello wasted little time getting stuck into the

Mudlarks’ line-up again before stumps, with Combe taking the wickets of Oliver Lindsay and Pramodh, each for ducks, to have the Mudlarks 4-20 at the close of play, still 120 runs in arrears as they seek to avoid a loss of an innings-plus on day two.

The situation also appears dire for Horsham Tigers, who will resume at 4-19 this weekend after Laharum made a total of 222 on Saturday.

The visiting Demons were undeterred after being sent in by the Tigers, overcoming early ducks to Daniel Griffiths and Monty Wynne thanks to 72 runs from Chaminda Gamage at number four and handy lower-order innings of 46 and 46 not out from Harrison Hoffmann and captain Josh Mahoney respectively.

The Tigers attack toiled for nearly 60 overs, with Archie Knight taking 3-24 while David Puls, Grant Connelly and Joel Plazzer had two wickets each.

The home side’s run chase faltered early, with Gavin Brown caught by Wynne off the bowling of Jackson Hoffmann, with Callum Jackson, duck, Martin Jones, nine, and Puls, five, joining him in the sheds soon after.

Reigning premier West Wimmera made a statement on day one of its match against second-placed Donald-Jeffcott, bowling the visitors out for 81 and surpassing the total without loss by the close of play.

Only Donald-Jeffcott’s Lachlan Jones, with an unbeaten 40, thrived at the crease, as four of his team-mates departed for ducks in the face of a balanced West Wimmera bowling attack.

With plenty of time to bat, Warriors openers Brad Alexander and Mitch Dahlenburg settled in, finishing unbeaten on 51 and 35 respectively to earn their team firstinnings points.

The Warriors could be in a position to challenge for an outright win this Saturday if they can quickly add to their lead and bowl the DJ side out again.

Swifts-Great Western will also look to build on a healthy first-

IN FORM: Swifts-Great Western’s Zach Marrow, 4-13, was the pick of a strong Lions bowling attack. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER innings lead at the resumption of play after bowling the visiting St Mary’s out for 79 on Saturday.

Zach Marrow, 4-13, was the pick of a strong Lions bowling attack, making a key breakthrough to remove Saint Colby Schmidt for 42.

In reply, the Lions were 3-114 at stumps, with Ethan Marrow topscoring on 41, while Max McMahon, 17, and Jesse Eckel, seven, were unbeaten at the crease.

Brim-Kellalac-Sheep Hills can afford to be patient in its run chase in the final match of the round after bowling the home-side Colts out for 102 at Dudley Cornell Park on Saturday.

The visiting Eagles sent the Colts in, and it proved an astute decision as the home side laboured for runs.

While the likes of Kane Tutchell and Joey Nagorcka were able to surpass 20, the team’s run rate hovered below two an over for much of the afternoon.

Colt opener Jaxon Crooks soaked up plenty of the strike, making 19 runs from 115 balls, but eventually fell to Fletcher Bright.

It was Jeremy Preston, 4-28, and Lachlan Mcginniss, 1-15 from 12 overs, who did the lion’s share of the work for the visiting Eagles,

earning their side 18 overs to bat before stumps.

While BKSH got off to a rocky start when Nagorcka removed opener Leigh Dovaston for one run, Sandon Schultz, 14 not out, and Preston, 10 not out, righted the ship to have their team 2-45 at the close of play, 62 runs away from a first-innings victory.

Other grades

A magnificent unbeaten knock of 120 from Noradjuha-Toolondo skipper John Heard helped his side to 2-295 on day one of its B Grade match against Brim-KellalacSheep Hills at Brim.

Heard was ably supported by Kent Hair, 80, and Mason Hair, 56 not out, in his effort, with his side in a commanding position when play resumes this weekend.

The only other B Grade batsman to surpass 50 runs on Saturday was Nick Gardiner, who made 58 for Horsham Saints on the road against Rup-Minyip.

No C Grade players recorded centuries at the weekend, with Henry Walsgott’s unbeaten 72 for Homers in their loss to Horsham Saints the top individual total of the round.

LAKESIDE

Clubs share in TAC grants Football and netball clubs across the WimmeraGrampians region are among more than 300 statewide to share in $700,000 through an initiative spearheaded by the State Government and the Transport Accident Commission, TAC. Clubs from the region to receive money this year were: Ararat, Dimboola, Edenhope-Apsley, Glenthompson-Dunkeld, Horsham, Horsham Saints, Laharum, Nhill, Rupanyup, SMW Rovers, Stawell and Taylors Lake, as well as the Ararat and District Junior Football Association.

The TAC Club Rewards program provides money for clubs working in their community to spread a road-safety message, with clubs able to receive up to $10,000 to use on initiatives including education, club transport, and new equipment and uniforms.

Delivered in partnership with AFL Victoria, the program encourages clubs to engage with players, members and supporters on road-safety issues, as well as promoting safe behaviours on the road.

The TAC invited clubs to apply for the program and show how they supported road safety throughout the year, including taking part in the TAC’s Road Safety Round.

Clubs were asked to start conversations and join a campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of speeding, with the tagline ‘Be the Difference’.

Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne said about 44 per cent of successful applications were from regional Victoria, where serious roadtrauma risk was the highest.

“From country roads to suburban streets, players, coaches and supporters have rallied behind road safety, sparking conversations, challenging behaviours, and protecting lives,” she said.

“These clubs are at the heart of their communities and have shown incredible leadership in promoting road safety, their efforts are helping to make every journey on Victoria’s roads a safer one.”

TAC chief executive Tracey Slatter said footballers and netballers often travelled long distances for games and training, putting them at greater risk.

“By making road safety a priority, these clubs are protecting their members and setting a powerful example,” she said.

Croquet festive fun Wimmera Croquet Association’s Christmas event on Thursday brought players together for social games.

Association president Rachel Cousins said the event attracted about 30 people.

“We don’t break up for Christmas because it’s our season, but we have a Christmas event each year,” she said. “It’s just a fun thing.”

David Wortley won division one with Marj Weidermann runner-up. Greg Phillips won division two.

On Saturday, Rob Bahr won division one with Gary Devlin the runner-up. Phillips again won division two, ahead of June Liddy. Kerrie Brody won division three with Elizabeth Todd the runner-up.

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Two-day camp to kickstart year A

BY DAVID BERRY

promising finish to the year by junior members has prompted Volleyball Horsham to develop its own junior development camp next month.

Success at junior country championships, especially by under-15 teams, has given the association great heart that junior members are performing on the biggest of stages and will benefit from further expertise.

Volleyball Horsham vice-president Matt McLoughlin said after discussions with key personnel it was agreed it would be feasible for the association to run its own camp.

“Matthew Berry was approached and he was fine with the concept put forward. He will be home at the time proposed and is excited to be able to give something back to the association. Local coaches Laelah Robertson, Sophie Quick, Tyler Puls and Jasper Ponseca are also keen to get involved,” he said.

“Matthew has been a key contributor to Vipers’ camps staged by Volleyball Victoria in the past few years, so he knows how to deliver a two-day camp and what it can do for participants.”

Mr McLoughlin said the camp would offer both on court and off court components to ensure the participants get full value for their time.

“We spoke with Scott Davidson at Volleyball Victoria and he helped with ideas for the off

court component, as he has developed those aspects for Vipers’ camps recently,” he said.

Mr McLoughlin said participants would receive eight hours of on court practical sessions and four hours of off court theory sessions throughout the two days.

“Matthew has a real feel for teaching participants and his on court sessions will be both educational and fun,” he said.

“Participants will learn plenty throughout the camp, but Matthew makes the environment fun at the same time.”

Mr McLoughlin said the off court sessions would be inciteful and relevant at the same time.

“These sessions include careers in sport to be delivered by Murtoa College careers teacher Shaun Bray, volleyball specific learnings by our own David Berry, pathways in volleyball, diet and nutrition,” he said.

Mr McLoughlin said the camp had been promoted right across western Victoria.

“There has already been a registration from a youngster from Shepparton, which came as a surprise, so we know the word is really getting spread far and wide,” he said.

“I can’t encourage our members enough as they will get so much out of the two days and it will really set them up for the year ahead.”

Registrations close on January 7. Further details can be obtained from Volleyball Horsham vai info@volleyballhorsham.com.au.

MAKING WAVES: Trophy winners at Wimmera District 12’s final meet of the year at Warracknabeal at the weekend, from left, Matilda Delahunty, Aleara Madex, Billie Donnan, Jesse Amos and Heidi Start.

Swimmers awarded before break Swimming Victoria’s Wimmera District 12 hosted its final meeting of 2025 at the weekend, with nearly 100 entrants hitting the lanes at Warracknabeal on Saturday.

Awarded at the meet were multiple trophies, with St Arnaud Swimming Club’s Jesse Amos picking up the Warracknabeal RSL Perpetual Trophy in the men’s open 100m freestyle final, while clubmate Heidi Start won the W. Maroney Per-

petual Trophy in the women’s 100m freestyle final.

Other trophy winners included Horsham Swimming Club’s Matilda Delahunty, who won the Phillips Perpetual Trophy for the fastest girls 10-11 years 50m butterfly; Emily Perazic, Ararat Swimming Club, 17 and older, Geoff Ferguson Memorial Trophy for best performing swimmer across all four strokes; and Ararat Swimming Club, Neil Ross Shield for the

District 12 team with the highest aggregate points from the meet.

District 12 co-ordinator Jenny Ough said the season would resume on January 31 with the Piranhas Meet at St Arnaud Swimming Pool.

Warmup for the event will be at 11.15am, with the meet commencing at 12pm. Spectators are welcome.

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BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

F

or a sport she never played until she was an adult, eight-ball pool has taken Horsham export Lauren Jelly a long way.

Jelly, the daughter of Wimmera business identity Gary Jelly, is preparing for next year’s World Eightball Pool Championship in Morocco after being crowned the top player in Australia last month.

The 42-year-old was not only the women’s singles champion, but won player of the carnival and captained the Queensland women’s team to a runner-up finish – earning a berth on the Australian team in the process.

“There’s not much more you could achieve other than winning the team final, which would have topped it off.

I’m really happy with the results,” she said.

Jelly was a member of the first-ever winning Australian women’s team at the world championships in 2007 and has subsequently competed at the tournament four more times, but said she envisaged none of her success when she began playing eight-ball pool.

“I took it up later in life. I used to play around when dad was at the pub – as a kid I would jump on the milk crate and hold the cue,” she said.

“It wasn’t until I was about 19 when I was at university in Ballarat that I

– Lauren Jelly, left

came home one week and dad needed a fill-in for his A Grade team in Horsham. He asked if I wanted a game and I said ‘I don’t really know the rules, but I’m happy to fill in’.

“I ended up winning two out of the four games I played that night and I thought, ‘wow, I’m pretty good at this’.”

From there Jelly joined the Ballarat Eight Ball Association – then one of the biggest eight-ball competitions in Australia – in its lowest division, quickly working her way up the ranks.

“They had eight divisions with 10 teams in each division and six players in each team, and I joined in division eight,” she said.

“I worked my way up through the divisions and as I was about to enter into division one I graduated from university and moved up to Queensland.”

Upon moving Jelly tried out for the Queensland state team, qualifying as a reserve in her first year and making the team on her second attempt in 2005.

Then, in 2006, she was a member

of the winning team at the championships, qualifying her for her first world championship appearance.

Jelly said the Australian team selected to compete next year in Morocco had a good blend of experience and fresh faces, with three of the six players having been part of the winning Australian team in 2007.

“The year that we won it we had a lot of experience in the team – some of the women had been there maybe eight or 10 years trying to win the title,” she said.

“This year with the team that’s been selected we still have a lot of experience. The captain is from Victoria and was part of the winning team when I first won it as well, so she’s got years of experience.

“Then there are three new players, and for one of the girls it’s only her second year ever of competing at eight-ball.”

Regardless of Australia’s fate at the world championships, Jelly said she knew she would receive plenty of support from the Wimmera, where she maintains close connections.

“I came back home in October for my dad’s 70th birthday party,” she said.

“Generally I try to get home once or twice a year, because my grandmother is 92 and still lives in Horsham, so I want to come home and visit her.”

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Swifts-Great Western spearhead Sam Wells bowls to St Mary’s middle-order batter Lincoln Westerland during a Horsham Cricket Association A Grade game at Central Park, Stawell, on Saturday. Wells later bowled Westerland, inset, as the Saints fell for 79. The Lions, 3-114, hold a comfortable first innings 35-run lead with seven wickets in hand. Play continues on Saturday. Story, page 80.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

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