The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, July 23, 2025

‘Fundamentally broken’

BY LAUREN HENRY

WestWimmera Shire Council staff have demanded that councillors stand down chief executive David Bezuidenhout, amid allegations of a ‘toxic and fearful’ workplace culture.

Staff passed a motion of no confidence in Mr Bezuidenhout and Mayor Tim Meyer, and allege the senior leadership has repeatedly misled the public and endangered staff.

The Australian Services Union, ASU, has written to councillors demanding they immediately stand down Mr Bezuidenhout until a full, independent investigation is completed.

The latest development comes after in June, staff moved a motion of no confidence in the ability of Mr

Bezuidenhout and Cr Meyer to manage the council and protect staff health and wellbeing.

Council employees also took strike action in May after negotiations over a new enterprise bargaining agreement, EBA, faltered.

The ASU has provided councillors with a dossier of staff complaints, demanding they take immediate action to restore confidence and ensure a safe workplace.

ASU branch secretary Tash Wark said the situation at the council had reached a breaking point, with staff feeling intimidated, belittled, and unsafe at work.

“For staff to take a vote of no confidence in their leadership is an extraordinary step that only happens when

a workplace is fundamentally broken,” she said.

“Our members have raised serious allegations of bullying, harassment, and mismanagement that have been ignored, minimised, or dismissed by the very people who have a duty of care to protect them.

“The councillors have a choice: they can either protect the CEO or they can protect their staff and the integrity of the institution they were elected to represent.”

It is understood the council has also cut an Income Protection Scheme for employees, provided since the first EBA in 1999, as part of a trade-off for a lower percentage pay increase – which the ASU said was done with little to no consultation.

“This isn’t just about protecting workers; it’s about the integrity of the council and its accountability to the community,” Ms Wark said.

“When you have a leadership that allegedly misleads the public about cutting essential services, interferes in planning reports, and strips away hard-won conditions from its own staff, it demonstrates a profound failure of governance.

“Residents of West Wimmera deserve to know the truth.”

Staff have raised serious allegations of inappropriate and potentially unlawful conduct by council’s senior staff, including Mr Bezuidenhout, which left them feeling intimidated, belittled and fearful at work and in their public life.

Staff also raised issues in relation to the council’s decision to outsource maternal and child health and early years services, saying council leadership had ‘misled the community by denying a decision had been made’ in a confidential meeting.

Earlier this year, council also decided to outsource its aged care services.

The Weekly Advertiser put the allegations to the council, requesting a response on several of the issues raised by the ASU.

West Wimmera Shire Council responded with: ‘Council is currently reviewing the letter from the ASU and will provide a media release in due course’.

• Maternal and child health cuts, page 9.

CENTRE STAGE: Rehearsals are in full swing for the annual Wimmera Music Eisteddfod, which will be staged at two Horsham venues on Friday and Saturday. Vocal soloists, ensembles and choirs, strings and a new speech drama section will showcase Horsham and district talent, including Rhianna Williams, Zara Adams and Hannah Arnup, front, pictured with this year’s women’s choir group. Story, page 11. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER.

HRCC NEWS

Councils call for review of drought-funding eligibility criteria

Northern Grampians Shire and Horsham Rural City Councils are calling on the State Government to thoroughly review its eligibility criteria for its latest round of drought funding, which excludes the municipalities’ farmers despite some of the most challenging conditions in recent memory.

Earlier this month, the government announced an additional $75 million in drought support for farmers in Victoria’s south-west, including $35.8 million for Primary Producer Support Payments to provide eligible farmers with the equivalent of a 40 per cent reduction on their property rates.

The payments will provide much-needed cash-flow relief for farmers in 12 Local Government Areas (LGAs), including Ararat, Southern Grampians and southern parts of West Wimmera, but not Northern Grampians or Horsham Rural City.

Northern Grampians Shire mayor Karen Hyslop said both councils were concerned and disappointed about the inequitable application of drought grants and assistance packages, including Farm Drought Support Grants (formerly On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants).

“The drought support grants provide farmers in our shire, and Horsham Rural City, with grants of up to $5000, while farmers in neighbouring LGAs may access up to $10,000,” she said.

“Now the additional $75 million drought assistance package, which includes rate rebates, and food and grocery support among other relief, is not available to us at all.

“Given we are both in LGA areas currently experiencing dry conditions with the consistent severity of drought conditions across the region, we are advocating for equitable access to financial support for all affected farming communities.”

Cr Hyslop and Horsham Rural City mayor Ian Ross have written letters to Premier Jacinta Allan and Agriculture Minister Ros Spence respectively, advocating for their municipalities to be made eligible for further drought relief.

Cr Ross said livestock maintenance costs had soared, while the depletion of pasture and seed banks had made it nearly impossible for farmers to sustain their operations without external support.

"Our farmers are battling conditions far worse than we’ve seen in recent history,” he said.

"With the high cost of maintaining livestock and the long-term implications for local farming families, we are deeply disappointed by the exclusion of our southern regions from the Primary Producers Support Payments.

“To have these areas excluded from the new support measures is a blow to our agricultural community, and council is calling for a review to address this oversight.

“These farmers need assistance now more than ever."

Cr Ross said he believed the exclusion of Horsham municipality’s southern and western areas from the latest drought support measures not only contradicted previous decisions but also undermined the hard work and resilience of local farmers.

“We welcome the government’s commitment to supporting farming communities and believe the taskforce has strong potential to deliver meaningful and lasting outcomes.”

Building disaster resilience in high-risk communities

Council will commence a project to build disaster resilience in Dadswells Bridge, Laharum, Wartook and Natimuk.

Horsham Mayor Cr Ian Ross said the recent Grampians Complex and Little Desert fires underscored the importance of local people understanding disaster risks, being prepared, and having plans in place—especially in high-risk areas.

“We know that when a community is well-prepared, it can reduce disaster impacts, rely less on external help, and strengthen resilience in tough times,” Cr Ross said.

While the project is primarily aimed at residents of Dadswells Bridge, Laharum, Wartook and Natimuk, members of the wider community are also welcome to attend the free community information session. It will focus on understanding the local risks, what to expect when disaster strikes, and how to plan your property, animals and yourself for disaster. People will also learn about emergency warnings and advice, how to stay informed and to be psychologically prepared.

After the information session, there will be an opportunity for each of the targeted communities to come together.

Funding for the project has been provided through the State Government’s Council Flood Support Fund.

“Planning isn’t just about responding—it’s about empowering our communities to act together in a crisis. Knowing your risks, having a plan, and helping your neighbours makes all the difference.”

“The session is a chance for residents to build practical plans and connections that boost community safety ahead of the next emergency. We encourage people to come along to the information session and learn more about how this important project can benefit their community.”

Free Community Information Session

Date & Time: Wednesday, 6 August 2025, 5.30pm–8.30pm (doors open at 5.10pm)

Location: Horsham Civic Centre (18 Roberts Ave)

To register for the information session, please scan the QR code or call Horsham Rural City Council on 5382 9777.

Riverfront Winter Warmer event this Sunday

Taking place on Sunday 27 July from 12pm, this special afternoon will showcase the very best of Horsham’s community spirit, food, music, and winter charm. The event includes:

• Voddy and Vacay and Rightbank Brewing Society serving cold drinks.

• Guys Coffee keeping hands warm with hot drinks.

• Live music from 2pm to set a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Fire pits to gather around and stay toasty.

• Lawn games to entertain the whole family.

Whether you’re looking to socialise, fill your belly, enjoy local entertainment, or simply stay warm by a fire, the Winter Warmers events offers something for everyone.

TENDERS AND

Upcoming maintenance works will involve

Toilet Closure and Alternative Facilities: May Park Toilets – May Park Terrace

First half closure: 21st July – 28th July 2025

Second half closure: 28th July – 3rd August 2025

Sawyer Park Toilets – Hocking Street, Horsham

Closed: 21st July – 28th July 2025

Nearest alternative: Botanic Gardens Public Toilets

Skate Park Toilets – Park Drive, Horsham

Closed: 28th July – 3rd August 2025

Nearest alternatives: Bennett Road Public Toilets or Woolworths car park, Darlot Street.

For more information or inquiries, please contact Customer Service on (03) 5382 9777.

Doing

business with Council: A free information session for businesses

Council is inviting all businesses—whether large or small, established suppliers or new vendors — to attend a free information session on how to do business with Council.

This session is designed to make the procurement process more accessible and help businesses understand how to supply goods and services to Council.

You'll learn:

• How Council purchases goods and services

• Where to find procurement opportunities

• How to register your business to receive notifications

• How Council ensures transparency in procurement

Location: Horsham Rural City Council, 18 Roberts Ave, Horsham VIC 3400

Date: Wednesday, 30 July 2025

Session Times: 10am–11.30am and 5.30pm–7pm

Registrations close 25 July, follow the QR code or visit the HRCC website to learn more and register.

Council Meeting: Monday, July 28, 2025 - 5.30pm Horsham Rural City Council: 18 Roberts

the upgrading of anti-slip flooring in public toilets. Alternative nearby toilets will be available to the public.

Renewables opposition made formal

BY LAUREN HENRY

Northern Grampians Shire Council has formally opposed the State Government’s proposal for a Renewable Energy Zone to be placed in their shire.

At an unscheduled meeting on Monday, Cr Murray Emmerson proposed a notice of motion to oppose the proposed REZ and continue to advocate against it in its current proposed form, which encompasses an intensive prime farming area of the shire; and advocate for the rights of occupants to be in charge of their own destiny.

Councillors voted 3-2 in favour of the motion, with Crs Jenny Greenberger and Justine Hide against.

Mayor Karen Hyslop left the meeting due to a conflict of interest, citing discussions with a renewable energy company for a windfarm, leaving deputy mayor, Cr Hide, to oversee proceedings.

VicGrid’s proposed Victorian Transmission Plan, announced in May, sets out how much more wind and solar energy Victoria is expected to need over the next 15 years, outlining seven Renewable Energy Zones, REZ, which are identified for new renew-

able energy and transmission projects.

Another REZ is set for alongside the Henty Highway, north of Horsham.

At Monday’s meeting, Cr Emerson said his motion was influenced by ‘a consistent and passionate campaign from a large group of community members concerned about their agricultural businesses being affected’ if a renewable energy zone was created in the region.

Cr Emerson said  there did not appear to be any new or additional benefits for the community from having a REZ, and more renewable energy projects, in the shire.

“ Agriculture is the backbone of the Northern Grampians Shire economy, community, landscape, and lifestyle,” he said.

“ It is becoming too common, especially in the renewable energy space, for the government to make rules and regulations without meaningful and respectable consultation.”

Cr Jack Blake said it was a complex subject but the only positive feedback he had heard in support of renewable energy projects came from those set to financially benefit.

“I’m not against having a renewable energy zone, but to compromise our

Slow down and show up

The football and netball community will observe its annual TAC Road Safety Round this weekend, with players, supporters and officials wearing armbands to show their support of the program and its message.

Designed for all levels of AFL Victoria-affiliated football and netball, from grassroots to elite, the program aims to highlight road safety awareness and promote safe practices.

Wimmera District Football Netball Association operations manager Jennie French said all 20 Wimmera and Horsham District league teams would participate.

“I don’t think we have any club that has not been affected by the road toll over the years, unfortunately,” she said.

“A lot of our players travel a long way, not just for games, but for training. Being the region that we are, we have such a long distance that people do travel, so it’s important for our region.”

Ms French said this year’s campaign slogan was ‘show up for your team –slow down on the road’.

“There are a couple of different hashtags to go with it too, including, ‘A tackle hits hard, a crash hits harder’ and ‘Speeding? The fastest way to let the team down’,” she said.

“TAC also has a rewards program clubs can be part of, where they can receive funding of up to $10,000 through their participation of the program and promotion of road safety.”

Ms French said people could follow a link from the TAC website to learn ‘how safe is your car’, and that clubs were already taking measures to ensure people arrived safely at their destinations.

“Some clubs run buses to reduce the number of vehicles on the roads, some make sure learner drivers are logging their hours,” she said.

“We have 18 rounds, plus finals where our players are travelling, not just to game day but to training, so it’s a great opportunity for learners.”

Ms French recognised that many clubs utilised players from across Victoria and interstate.

“We do travel such long distances and the driving conditions aren’t always great,” she said.

“We’re really passionate about road safety – there is a massive ripple effect when we do lose somebody.”

Laharum Football Netball Club will again support the TAC Road Safety Round with a series of initiatives aimed at keeping its members safe on the roads.

Club secretary Rowena Doyle said

food chain and the interruption to the way of life of our farming community is not the way to go,” he said.

“So we must get this right and to find out there is a plan B that is being ignored by people that aren’t affected by plan A just goes to show, this is more about greed than common sense.

“We are not talking about an uneducated bunch of hillbillies refusing to back down, just because they are being bullied, but it’s a group of welleducated people who are passionate about now and the future as well as the many people that they feel that they are obligated to feed all over the country and the world.”

However Cr Greenberger said the  plan provided the blueprint for the transition to a clean energy future –  and was a ‘well-researched, best scenario possible plan for Victoria to do’ at this moment in time.

“ We in Northern Grampians Shire should do our bit, take on our share of this transition plan and work together to do our very best to minimise any adverse impacts,” she said.

“The REZ does not make it compulsory for any property owners to accept renewable energy infrastructure, but for those who do want to and those

who might want to in the future, to diversify their income streams, we should support them by accepting the opportunity to be a REZ.”

Cr Greenberger said the council was not experts in renewable energy.

“Let’s do everything we can as a community and as a council to protect our biodiversity, minimise impact on our best farmland and participate in education and training to deal with any additional risk,” she said.

Cr Karen Probst said  country people carried the load for energy production – both in the past and renewable energy projects in their current form.

“These renewable changes – they don’t just affect people’s work, but they affect lifestyle, family, and future security,” she said.

“We’ve seen long-standing relationships in our community are breaking down and people’s connections are damaged.

“Although the decision to host a wind turbine on your own land rests with you, the combined effect of turbines, even if they’re on neighbouring land, and the compulsory transmission lines is too great an impost on our farming community without justification as to why this is the best

approach.” Cr Hide said she did not believe council should be making decisions on behalf of landowners if they wanted a renewable project on their land.

“ Unlike transmission lines, by having a REZ does not give permission to organisations the right for compulsory acquisition of land, and the landowner has the right and the ability to say no to any solar or wind turbine,” she said.

Cr Hide said VicGrid chief executive Alistair Parker told her the REZ would remain in Northern Grampians Shire ‘as it is in a critical logistical location’.

“With regards to just renewable energy zones, they will occur regardless of this motion for or against,” she said.

“To have a seat at the table over the next several years is important for the whole community – being shut out from the conversations will not do anyone in this community a favour.”

In June, the council voted to oppose the State Government’s VNI West project, which proposes a high-capacity, double-circuit overhead transmission line that will cut across agricultural land starting at Bulgana, east of Stawell, to New South Wales.

Laharum, which is nicknamed the Demons, was promoting a slogan of ‘Be a Speed Demon on the Field, Not on the Road’.

“As part of our campaign, we will hold our second annual Speed Demon Race at training on Thursday, to crown the fastest Demon in the club,” she said.

“Last year’s inaugural champion,

Pat Lattanzio, will return to defend his ‘Speediest Demon’ title – adding some friendly competition to an important cause.”

Ms Doyle said the club had also invited its players, members and supporters to sign a road-safety pledge that promoted driving within the speed limit, staying focused and avoiding mobile phone distractions, taking breaks to avoid fatigue while driving, making safe decisions about drinking and driving, and supporting learner drivers to gain safe driving experience.

“We also encourage non-drivers, especially young supporters, to sign a special ally pledge – committing to wear seatbelts, avoid distracting drivers, and speak up to help promote safe behaviour on our roads,” she said.

LEAGUE EFFORT: From left, Ashlee Ison, Jayde Ellis, Dave Thomas and Tom Baker promote the annual TAC Road Safety Round for football and netball. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Wimmera farmers to rally

BY LAUREN HENRY

Wimmera farmers will once again rally on the steps of State Parliament, this time voicing their opposition to the State Government’s proposed changes to land access rights.

The rally, on Wednesday, July 30 at 11am, comes after the Emergency Services Volunteer Levy protest in May, where thousands of people gathered at Parliament to protest the government tax.

Speakers at next week’s rally will include St Arnaud farmer Glendan Watts, Ben Duxson, from Wallalo near Marnoo, and Marcia McIntyre, Kanya, who oppose the Transmission Company Victoria’s VNI West transmission line project, which will start at Bulgana, east of Stawell, going through farmland to New South Wales.

The government plans to legislate for transmission project workers to gain access to private land, which

will enable authorities to fine people up to $12,200 if they try to hinder work, including removing work permit signs, barring access to farmland and refusing to identify themselves to authorised officers.

Rally organiser Andrew Weidemann said the rally was not just about land access, but the mounting issues faced by farmers due to the State Government’s changes to policy and legislation.

Other issues to be raised include regional health cuts and increased costs to all Victorian businesses.

“We’re also going to be talking about mining, renewables, mental health, and the energy policy of government in relation to the hospitality sector,” he said.

“The indication is so far there’s very strong support because this is a draconian piece of legislation that the government is trying to put in place on access rights on farmland.

“Essentially the legislation they’re

Operation ongoing

Horsham Police’s Operation Shelter will continue beyond its original two-week timeframe after the arrest of 13 youths.

Aged between 10 and 15 years, the offenders were arrested in relation to numerous matters, and face several disposition options, including appearing at the Children’s Court.

Initially for the school holiday period, Acting Inspector Eddie Malpas said Operation Shelter would extend until at least mid-August.

“We are making a sustained and ongoing effort to tackle the incidents of harm that are occurring, and to reassure the community so they not only know they are safe, but they feel safe,” he said.

“We had an external partner meeting, which brought together several government and community organisations that have input into young people at different stages of their lives.

“We spoke about not just the offending, but the impact on victims as well. From this, I have sent messaging to the Department of Education to push out to teachers, students, staff, and parents.”

The Horsham Proactive Policing Unit, overseen by Acting Inspector Cam Ross and including a youth specialist officer, works to engage

and support victims and their families, as well as supporting young people who come into contact with police, or who are charged with offences.

The unit visits schools to deliver presentations on a variety of topics that support students and families, and address at-risk behaviours.

Acting Inspector Malpas said there was a growing community understanding of the complexities of incidents involving youth.

“It’s not just complex for those who are offending, it’s complex for the victims,” he said.

“Supporting everyone involved and connecting them to local support services is an absolute priority for us.”

Acting Inspector Malpas said there was an increased police presence around schools at the beginning and end of the day, to give students, parents and teachers an opportunity to engage with police, and for police to engage with school communities.

“This is also an opportunity for victims, or parents of victims, or witnesses, to report incidents to us.

We can’t take formal action unless we have formal reports,” he said.

People can also report incidents at a police station, call the non-urgent

trying to put in place is so far above any other state in Australia because they’re that far delayed they’re trying to force themselves onto farm land.” Energy and Resources Minister Lily D’Ambrosio announced last month she would introduce a National Electricity, Victoria, Amendment, Stage Two VicGrid, Bill, in what she said would ‘further strengthen VicGrid as the body responsible for the planning and development of Renewable Energy Zones and transmission infrastructure in Victoria’.

But farmers – particularly opponents to Transmission Company Victoria’s VNI West transmission line project, planned to be built on farmland in the north-east of Northern Grampians Shire – fear the new legislation will result in increased powers over landowners and communities.

The Coalition plans to oppose Labor’s Bill, which would allow public officials to force their way onto farmers’ land and other property own-

ers as part of new energy policies. Shadow spokesperson for energy and resources, David Davis, said a Liberal and Nationals government would restore ‘normal rights and democratic approaches’, with a commitment to review and repeal the Bill.

“There is massive, and building opposition, from many rural communities to the imposition of renewables and associated wires and grids on those communities without their support or consent,” he said.

Opponents have also started a petition requesting the Legislative Council call on the government to amend the relevant agriculture legislation to include the right for all Victorian farmers to veto any proposed land access where they believe access activities would adversely affect their farm.

People can find the petition at www. parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/ petitions/farmers-land-access-vetorights.

Cameron Ross at Horsham Police Station. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

police line on 131 444, or call triple zero in an emergency.

Acting Inspector Malpas said police would not accept any form of anti-social behaviour and the community could be assured every offence was treated seriously and thoroughly investigated, regardless of a person’s age.

“However, it’s important to remember that most young people in Horsham are respectful, responsi-

ble and contribute positively to our community,” he said.

“Children make up just seven per cent of all crime in the area, with the majority of offending committed by adults.”

Acting Inspector Malpas said police still had active investigations, which were progressing well.

“We are not taking our foot off the pedal at all,” he said.

Glass smashed

Police are investigating after Horsham’s Moe’s Mexican Bar and Grill and the Exchange Hotel sustained damage to their glass shopfronts early Sunday morning.

Moe’s Ash Wilmot said he and his wife Tabitha took ownership of the restaurant almost three years ago.

“It’s taken us a long time to build up our clientele and our reputation. And then for this to happen, it’s just a kick in the teeth,” he said.

A door and glass panel at a third Firebrace Street premises, Bonnie and Clyde’s, was also vandalised in recent weeks. Stolen pigeons return

Most of the 520 homing pigeons that were stolen from Horsham Racing Pigeon Club on Friday night have been recovered.

A sign-written BT Mazda utility and attached purpose-built carrier, loaded with some of the birds for Saturday’s race at Hopetoun, was taken along with cash and alcohol. A tandem trailer with a further 300 birds was left in the clubrooms.

Club member Brian Watts said birds started returning home across the weekend.

“We think the ute has been damaged as it seems some have escaped the cage. A small number have been seriously hurt, yet they’ve flown home – they’re a very gallant bird,” he said.

Items from the utility were recovered about 15 kilometres north of Horsham, but the vehicle has not yet been found.

People with information are asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

CCTV registration call

Horsham Police are seeking to add residential and business CCTV locations to a secure database to assist in solving crimes.

People with security doorbells or cameras that cover driveways, front yards, streets and rear laneways can submit their details to Horsham-uni-oic@police.vic. gov.au.

Second fatality

A second fatality in a fortnight has occurred along the Western Highway, between Ararat and Buangor.

A car and truck collided just after 5pm on Friday, with the female driver of the car dying at the scene.

The male truck driver was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigations are ongoing into the circumstances of the collision. The highway was closed in both directions between Beaufort and Ararat on Friday night.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam or CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or file a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

The fatality comes after a man died on July 6 when a motorist crossed onto the other side of the road.

• Editorial, page 11.

PRESENCE: Acting Inspectors Eddie Malpas and

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Current and past parents are also invited to attend and share their experiences.

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For more information or to register, scan the QR code.

Councils call for drought overhaul

BY LAUREN HENRY

Northern Grampians Shire Council has joined Horsham Rural City Council in calling on the State Government to thoroughly review its eligibility criteria for its latest round of drought funding.

Announced earlier this month, the government’s latest round of drought funding included $35.8-million for primary producer support payments for farmers living in 12 local government areas that have been affected by drought conditions for the past two years.

The payments will provide eligible farmers with the equivalent of a 40 per cent reduction on their property rates.

But while farmers in Ararat, Southern Grampians and southern parts of West Wimmera are eligible, those in Northern Grampians or Horsham municipalities are not.

Northern Grampians Shire Mayor Karen Hyslop said both councils were concerned and disappointed about the inequitable application of drought

grants and assistance packages.

“The drought support grants provide farmers in our shire, and Horsham Rural City, with grants of up to $5000, while farmers in neighbouring LGAs may access up to $10,000,” she said.

“Now the additional $75-million drought assistance package, which includes rate rebates, and food and grocery support among other relief, is not available to us at all.

“Given both LGAs are experiencing ongoing drought conditions across the region, we are advocating for equitable access to financial support for all affected farming communities.”

Cr Hyslop and Horsham Mayor Ian Ross have written letters to Premier Jacinta Allan and Agriculture Minister Ros Spence, advocating for their municipalities to be made eligible for further drought relief.

In her letter to the premier, Cr Hyslop extended her appreciation and support for the Victorian Drought Response Taskforce, which she said she believed had strong potential to deliver meaningful and lasting outcomes.

Rewarded for excellence

Horsham’s Wilson Bolton received two awards at the annual state Mitsubishi Dealer Awards at the weekend – one for its service to its customers, the other for a staff member’s service to the company.

Dealer principal Brian Thomas was recognised for his quarter-century with the company, and service manager Tim Schumann with parts manager Drew Carmody earned the Diamond Aftersales Award.

Mr Thomas said he started working with the company in 1982, when it was a Chrysler dealership.

“I have also been in principal for Wilson Bolton for over 25 years, so they recognised the term of service with a long-term distinguished dealer award,” he said.

“We met the standard for the aftersales award, up against 28 other metropolitan and regional dealers.”

Wilson Bolton, one of Horsham’s oldest continuing businesses, employs 25 people in selling and servicing a range of Mitsubishi vehicles, as well as a 24-hour RACV service.

“It’s always nice to receive these awards, we work hard for them,” Mr Thomas said.

“Sometimes it’s not easy to get there, but then to be recognised and to be meeting targets is always nice, and to share it with the other dealers as well – it was an exciting night.”

“However, we are concerned by the absence of direct representation from the Wimmera region on the taskforce and the absence of communication to date regarding its activities, plans and opportunities for engagement,” she said.

“Regular updates, clear lines of communication and access to any emerging support programs would greatly assist council in co-ordinating local efforts and ensuring our communities are informed and connected to the process.”

Cr Hyslop said she would welcome an opportunity to work with the taskforce and extended an invitation to host a taskforce meeting in Northern Grampians Shire.

“Here, we could facilitate engagement with local farmers, enabling taskforce members to hear firsthand the concerns of our agricultural community and better understand how support packages can meet local needs,” she said.

“As our areas have been experiencing the effects of drought for quite

some time, our region is experiencing significant economic, social and mental health pressures.”

Taskforce members include government ministers and representatives from local government, banks and the Victorian Farmers Federation.

Regional Cities Victoria and Rural Councils Victoria have also been advocating heavily on behalf of councils, including Horsham Rural City and Northern Grampians Shire, and are represented on the taskforce.

Cr Ross said livestock maintenance costs had soared, while the depletion of pasture and seed banks had made it nearly impossible for farmers to sustain their operations without external support.

“Our farmers are battling conditions far worse than we’ve seen in recent history,” he said.

“With the high cost of maintaining livestock and the long-term implications for local farming families, we are deeply disappointed by the exclusion of our southern regions from the Primary Producer Support Payments.

“To have these areas excluded from the new support measures is a blow to our agricultural community, and council is calling for a review to address this oversight. These farmers need assistance now more than ever.”

Cr Ross said he believed the exclusion of Horsham municipality’s southern and western areas from the latest drought support measures not only contradicted previous decisions but also undermined the hard work and resilience of local farmers.

“The contradiction between being included in earlier drought relief programs and then being excluded from the latest support payments is creating unnecessary confusion,” he said.

“We are calling on the government to ensure that all drought-affected farmers, regardless of location, receive the support they need.”

The latest drought support measures, totalling $75-million in support, also included $15-million for the East Grampians Rural Pipeline, which required extra funding to deliver water to farmers in the Ararat municipality.

Parks invite

Parks Victoria is hosting two community drop-in sessions this week about the draft amendment to the Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park, Dyurrite Cultural Landscape, Management Plan.

The sessions at the NC2 Building, old council chambers, in Natimuk, will share feedback that Parks Victoria gathered for its community engagement summary report.

Parks Victoria staff will also talk about the ways they are strengthening their local presence in response to community input.

The sessions, tomorrow, are between 1.30pm and 3.30pm; and 5.30pm and 7.30pm. People can drop in anytime.

To read the full summary of the report, people can visit engage.vic.gov. au/dyurrite.

Payphone removal

People are invited to submit feedback on Telstra’s proposal to remove a payphone from Yanac in coming months. The next closest to the Maude Street payphone is at Netherby-Baker Road, Netherby.

A decision regarding its removal will be made on September 9. People can make a submission via email to payphones@team.telstra.com, and can find more information at telstra. com/payphones.

REWARD: Wilson Bolton parts manager Drew Carmody and service manager Tim Schumann, right, earned the Diamond Aftersales Award at the annual state Mitsubishi Dealer Awards, while dealer principal Brian Thomas, inset, was recognised for his quarter-century with the company.

Council votes to transfer services

BY COLIN MACGILLIVRAY

Acontroversial

transfer of West Wimmera Shire Council’s maternal and child health, MCH, services to West Wimmera Health Service, WWHS, is set to proceed after the council approved the move at a meeting last week.

The MCH service involves qualified nurses conducting home visits or seeing clients in centres, assessing the development of young children and monitoring their health, as well as the physical and mental health of mothers.

While the council has until now delivered the MCH service, corporate and community services director Dalton Burns said it was at risk of becoming noncompliant with clinical governance requirements.

“It will likely be that there will be a number of restraints on additional services and flexibility that we provide because of governance processes,” he said.

Mr Burns said that clinical governance changes had evolved over time and the council ‘may not have kept up with as well’.

“[That is no] reflection on the current practitioners we currently have. We have every confidence they are doing a wonderful job – this is from a management point of view, not the practitioners,” he said.

In a report Mr Burns recommended the council transfer its MCH service to WWHS, saying there was a chance the council would need to suspend home visits and immunisations until it developed more appropriate governance frameworks if it continued to operate the service.

Mr Burns said under the proposed transfer, the current council MCH staff would continue to operate an unchanged service locally, but under the auspices of WWHS rather than the council.

Councillors debate

Cr Richard Hicks questioned why WWHS was better positioned to deliver MCH services compared to the council.

“It’s not like West Wimmera Health is going to send out a doctor to undertake more clinical evaluation each time a maternal health person goes out,” he said.

“I don’t see the difference whether the paymaster is the health service or the shire. You’re still relying on the professional integrity of our verywell-qualified maternal health staff.”

Cr Hicks said the risk to council was vaguely defined.

“We may or may not have to change the rules regarding clinical governance. Right now there are no deficiencies that have been highlighted with regard to the way that we operate under clinical governance,” he said.

“You’re just presupposing that at some point in the future we might have to, and the rules might change and tighten up.”

Cr Helen Hobbs also voiced reservations about the move.

“I spoke to … three past midwives slash maternal-health nurses … [and] I don’t necessarily feel that they left feeling that they had the confidence in West Wimmera Health Service,” she said.

Cr Hobbs said with the council transferring its aged-care services to WWHS earlier this year, an additional

transfer of MCH services felt like ‘asset stripping’.

But Mayor Tim Meyer pointed out that WWHS was already operating MCH services in Hindmarsh and Yarriambiack shires.

“I find it quite amazing that people trust us more than a health service to provide a health service. I don’t know what that says about the health services or what it says about us,” he said.

Cr Meyer said it was a ‘very tough decision’.

“We have to do what’s in the best interest of our ratepayers, we have to do what’s in the best interest of our families, but we also have to do what’s in the best interests of ourselves,” he said.

“We sit here as a board of directors and we are well aware of what the risks are and well aware of where we need to tidy things up.”

Council chief executive David Bezuidenhout said he believed the more robust governance structure of WWHS made it more appropriate to handle MCH services.

Cr Hicks moved the council retain its MCH service in the current form, but his motion was defeated, with he and Cr Hobbs voting in favour and Crs Meyer, Jodie Pretlove and Tom Houlihan opposed.

A subsequent motion by Cr Houlihan to approve the transfer of MCH services to WWHS was passed with the same division.

Community opposition

The decision was met with dismay by some members of the public, including West Wimmera Shire resident Danielle Grindlay.

Ms Grindlay said she feared resi-

dents would be left worse off. “We want a local service to be managed and run by local managers who understand our community,” she said.

“The concern is that when managers are operating from more than 100 kilometres away, they don’t really understand the needs of our community, of our staff.”

Ms Grindlay said the council’s transfer of aged-care services to WWHS in April, which she said was done ‘for more understandable reasons’ had been far from smooth.

“In Edenhope we had a really tight team of five people delivering that service and … three of those staff members quit,” she said.

Ms Grindlay, who has four children and is a past client of the council’s MCH service, said she feared a similar outcome if the service was transferred out of the council’s control.

“We have an example of how that outsourcing of aged care has gone terribly. It’s an example of what can go wrong, so that is the fear,” she said.

“If you lose a qualified midwife in a town like ours, there is a huge concern that you’re not going to get another one.”

Ms Grindlay said she had repeatedly asked council officials why they were unable to put appropriate governance procedures in place to continue operating MCH services, but had not received a satisfactory response.

She said she knew of only two other councils – out of 79 in Victoria – that have outsourced maternal health services.

“If 76 other councils are not concerned about this risk, why is our council suddenly worried about this

risk? And if they are, why can’t they mitigate that risk themselves?,” she said.

Ms Grindlay said she ‘didn’t buy the rhetoric’ about clinical governance.

“Our mayor said this would not happen without community support. My question for all of the councillors is, could you find 10 people who support this?” she said.

“When this first was raised it was going to be aged care, maternal and child health services, our kindergartens and our childcare centre all going to be outsourced, and not once was a risk mentioned when it was introduced.”

Ms Grindlay said despite the public being told it would receive a better service, a West Wimmera Health Service representative confirmed at a public meeting there would not be any extra services.

“That’s when this new rhetoric came out that we need to be worried about clinical governance,” she said.

WWHS chief executive Ritchie Dodds said the health service was determined to retain current staff and vowed to uphold the high level provided through the MCH service.

“We are supportive of this initiative. We have no intention to materially alter the scope or delivery of the MCH service currently provided by WWSC, from whenever the transfer may take place,” he said.

“Importantly, and consistent with the transfers in Hindmarsh and Yarriambiack, the WWSC service would continue to be delivered locally. There would be no additional travel required for families accessing the service compared to the current arrangement.”

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For now, it’s up to us to adapt

Fatalities and road crashes are everyone’s responsibility.

They are usually not ‘accidents’ – most times someone or something is to blame.

More often than not it is driver error.

Too fast, too tired, too distracted or too drunk are the common causes.

But it can just be someone had a brain-fade, and they pay the ultimate price.

And it’s not just fatalities that can rock people’s worlds – crashes that cause serious injuries can have disastrous results.

The trauma – both physical and mental – suffered by not only the person directly affected, but also their family, is a horrible consequence of road crashes.

Then there is our emergency service workers – police and paramedics – and volunteers in the Country Fire Authority and Victoria State Emergency Service who are the ones to deal directly with the confronting scenes of a crash.

As of Monday, 176 people have died on Victorian roads – higher than 157 lives lost at the same time last year.

Ninety-five of those fatalities have occurred in rural Victoria – a 21 per cent increase from 2024.

So far this year, there has been 11 people die in road crashes on the Western Highway in this region. Eleven people’s families who are left to grieve their loved one, try and find answers to why it happened, and deal with the consequences.

Three of the 11 people have died in crashes on the Western Highway, east of Ararat – two in the past fortnight.

And while there is no doubt the highway needs to be a dual carriageway, it is not yet conclusive that it was the blame for those particular fatalities.

As the major road from Melbourne to Adelaide, thousands of trucks and cars travel each day on the

EDITORIAL

By Lauren Henry

Western Highway. But it is residents of our region who face the gauntlet on a regular basis, using it to travel to Melbourne or Ballarat, or just in between towns across the Wimmera and Grampians.

The highway needs to be duplicated – firstly finish the planned dual carriageway to Ararat. That is a non-negotiable for the safety of our region.

And it needs to be done immediately as first planned.

But the dual highway also needs to be extended past Ararat.

Stop with the endless announcement of funding for ‘plans’ and just get the job done.

Both state and federal governments need to see the Western Highway as a priority, not drip-feed funding every couple of years to make it seem like they are addressing the issues.

But, alas, we will not be holding our breath for the governments to make any type of real improvements to the highway.

In the meantime, it will be up to us as motorists to adapt to the road conditions in order to keep our region safe.

This weekend’s annual TAC Road Safety Round will bring road safety into the spotlight for all football and netball clubs across the Wimmera and Grampians.

It is so important to educate and remind people of all ages, sexes and experience about road safety – it is the responsibility of everybody and every level of government.

Council: framework falls short

Horsham Rural City Council is calling for changes to the Payment in Lieu of Rates, PILOR, Scheme, which if approved will allow energy storage systems to pay lower rates than local businesses.

With the expansion of renewable energy projects, including the State Electricity Commission’s Horsham Energy Park, council believes it is time for a fairer system that benefits the community.

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, DEECA, is seeking feedback on proposed amendments to the PILOR Scheme, which enables energy projects and electricity generators to negotiate payments to councils instead of paying property rates.

Mayor Ian Ross said the Horsham council believed the discounted rates for energy projects were unfair to local businesses.

“The government is reviewing how energy storage projects are rated, but we believe a full overhaul is needed,” he said.

“These projects should pay their fair share, just like any other business. The current system gives them huge discounts, leaving local businesses to pick up the slack. It’s time for a fairer deal.”

As a municipality hosting renewable energy projects, Cr Ross said the council was committed to ensuring they delivered real benefits to communities.

He said the council continued to engage with DEECA and other stakeholders, and was hopeful the changes would lead to a fairer, more transparent system that supported both industry and local communities.

“The increasing number of energy storage systems, such as large-scale batteries, presents an opportunity for local economic and community growth – but the current PILOR framework falls short of achieving this,” he said.

“Council advocates for energy storage systems to be charged the same rates as other industrial facilities. This would ensure that local communities share in the benefits of the renewable energy transition, including better funding for services and infrastructure.”

The council is calling for a consistent rating approach where energy storage systems are taxed based on the industrial value of the land they occupy, which would provide certainty for developers while ensuring communities benefit more from these large-scale energy projects.

“These facilities occupy vast amounts of land and play a significant role in the state’s energy infrastructure,” Cr Ross said.

“They should be treated the same as any other industrial development and pay rates based on the capital improved value of the land.

“The renewable energy industry is growing rapidly, and its importance to our future energy needs cannot be overstated.

“However, it’s crucial that this growth doesn’t come at the expense of the communities hosting these projects.

“The State Government must revise the PILOR framework to ensure energy projects contribute fairly to the local economy and community.”

Opportunity to shine

Speech drama will debut at the Wimmera Music Eisteddfod starting Friday, alongside traditional vocal, piano and string performances across two Horsham venues.

Eisteddfod president Lisa Thomas said two full days of Wimmera talent was scheduled, accompanied by Melbourne-based pianist and conductor Stuart Andrew, and judged by vocal adjudicator Melissa Langton and instrumental adjudicator Caroline Almonte.

“We’re expecting we should have a good turnout and good performances,” she said.

“We had more entries than last year; however, we’ve had a few scratchings with the weather, a few colds, and things like that.

“A lot of new, younger primary students are performing in vocals for the first time, so that’ll be good.”

Mrs Thomas said traditional choirs would perform, with ensembles and mostly vocal performances making up the program.

“We have speech drama for the first time this year, which is exciting,” she said.

“We start at 9.30am at both venues, with the afternoon sessions at 2pm.”

Performances are at Horsham Church of Christ and Horsham Lutheran Church Hall on Friday and Saturday, sessional or wholeevent tickets are available at the door of each venue.

People can find more information and a detailed program at wimmeraeisteddfod. com.au or on the eisteddfod’s Facebook page.

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Show judging information session

The Wimmera Agricultural Shows Association is hosting a How to Judge Day on Sunday.

The information session, starting at 10am at Horsham’s Maydale Pavilion, is for people interested in becoming a show judge.

People can learn how to judge preserves, craft, flowers and cookery.

Following completion, people will need to

complete shadowing at three Wimmera shows to become an agricultural shows judge.

The day costs $20 and includes lunch.

Anyone interested in becoming a show judge can contact their local agricultural show society or email wasawimmera@gmail.com by Thursday to secure a place.

SHOWCASE: Yolande Grosser and Rhianna Williams rehearse for the 2025 Wimmera Music Eisteddfod, starting Friday. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

New paramedics for region

Four paramedic recruits have been deployed to Horsham and Ararat as Ambulance Victoria aims to boost its numbers.

Three graduate paramedics have joined Horsham Ambulance Station, while one has been posted to Ararat as part of a batch of 59 new paramedics starting with the service.

AV chief executive Jordan Emery said the recruits would help meet rising demand for ambulance services during winter as illnesses circulated.

“Demand on our crews is increasing, as usual, at this time of year and will likely remain heightened in the coming months as

cases of the flu and other respiratory viruses stay high,” he said.

“We always plan ahead to meet extra winter demand – and that’s why we bring forward our first intake of new recruits for the financial year.

“As we hit the middle of winter, we also urge all Victorians to do their part to help reduce demand and ensure our highly skilled paramedics are available for the sickest patients.

“There are many options people can access when they need timely medical care and health advice but don’t need an emergency ambulance, including the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, VVED, and urgent care centres.”

In 2024-25 AV recruited 229

new graduate and qualified paramedics.

The first intake of graduate paramedics for this financial year started on June 23, with the recruits becoming operational on Monday this week.

Mr Emery said three quarters of the new paramedics were deployed to regional Victoria for onroad training, including in Horsham and Ararat.

“Working as a paramedic is an extraordinarily unique experience.

Very few jobs will have such a profound and deep impact on peoples’ lives,” he said.

“Our paramedics, first responders, volunteers and support staff are our greatest strength. It is through them we lead the way in

patient care, including the nation’s best cardiac arrest survival rates.

“We now have more than 5500 on-road paramedics delivering the very best life-saving care, everywhere, and it’s great to see more joining our ranks.”

After completing a university degree, all new graduates start at AV with a four-week induction and training program aiming to give them the skills required to operate alongside experienced paramedics.

During their induction, recruits learn skills such as safely moving and loading patients to prevent injuries, aggression and assault prevention, and safely driving ambulance vehicles.

Liveability feedback

West Wimmera Shire Council is seeking community feedback on its draft Small Towns Plan, a strategic project focused on supporting the development and liveability of the shire.

Presenting locally tailored ideas to enhance public spaces, grow tourism, strengthen town centres and guide land use and development, the plan builds on a review of the West Wimmera Planning Scheme, which found that key local policy settings had not been updated since the 1990s and required revision.

Council chief executive David Bezuidenhout said the draft plan captured the distinct characters of Apsley, Edenhope, Goroke, Harrow and Kaniva, and suggested ideas to help them thrive.

“Each town has something different to offer. This plan recognises those differences and outlines opportunities to support each town’s growth and wellbeing,” he said.

Apsley’s priorities include enhancing the Wimmera Highway streetscape, promoting events such as the Apsley Cup and mosaic walk, and exploring tourism and short-stay accommodation opportunities.

In Edenhope, the focus is on improving connections between Lake Wallace and the retail strip, supporting new business activity, and promoting the town as part of the broader Wimmera Lakes region.

For Goroke, the plan highlights the potential to restore and repaint key buildings, upgrade streetscape elements, and grow tourism through links to the Little Desert, a silo art trail and a proposed HorshamGoroke rail trail.

Harrow is identified as having potential for boutique tourism development, with proposed improvements along Blair Street and support for repurposing heritage buildings for accommodation or commercial use.

In Kaniva, the plan suggests capitalising on highway traffic by improving amenities and caravan parking, installing tourism signage, and encouraging the activation of underused buildings in the town centre.

The community is invited to read the draft plan online or view a hard copy at council’s customer service centres in Kaniva and Edenhope.

Feedback can be submitted via the online form and must be received by 5pm on August 8.

To view the draft plan and provide feedback, people can visit www.westwimmera.vic.gov.au/Have-YourSay/West-Wimmera-Small-Towns-Plan.

The SEC is delivering Victoria’s first 100% publicly owned, large-scale renewable energy project – right here in Horsham. Construction of the solar farm and renewable energy storage facility on Horsham-Lubeck Road is well underway, and we’re on track for completion in 2027.

Help shape the Community Benefit Fund

We are setting up a Community Benefit Fund of $126,000 during the three year construction period and an additional $2 million over the project’s operational life.

We are calling for your ideas to help guide how this fund will be designed and delivered to best support the Horsham community.

Have your say online or attend a local information session.

Come along to meet the team and share your ideas. Dates and venues in the link below.

Have your say: engage.vic.gov.au/secrenewable-energy-parkhorsham

NAIDOC WEEK: Horsham West and Haven Primary School celebrated NAIDOC Week with children participating in a variety of activities such as Indigenous games, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander curriculum, NAIDOC colourings and dreamtime stories, concluding the week with a dress-up day. All students were encouraged to wear the colours of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags and fundraised to donate to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. Pictured are, from left, Will Abraham, Jett Skiller, Olivia Papst, Emily Johns, Shilo Hurley, Willow Benson and Adele Meyer.

Wimmera Lutheran College Horsham Campus Presents...

Inspiration kiosks ‘ground-breaking’

Three world-first off-grid digital inspiration kiosks – powered entirely by solar and wind using sodium ion batteries – are now in use at Halls Gap, Dunkeld and Lake Tyrrell.

Designed and assembled in St Arnaud, the kiosks will provide visitors with essential information about events, attractions, dining options, and nature trails in the region.

Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism, with the support of the State Government and Northern Grampians, Southern Grampians and Buloke shire councils installed the kiosks, and they are already being embraced by visitors eager to explore.

GWM Tourism chief executive Marc Sleeman described the kiosks as ‘ground-breaking’ and said the initiative aimed to enhance the visitor experience and promote economic recovery in the region.

“The kiosks, accompanied by a new visitor app tailored specifically for our region, aim to create an interactive and enriching experience that truly highlights the charm and diversity of our area,” he said.

Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos encouraged visitors and residents to experience the kiosks first-hand, supported through the government’s Visitor Servicing Fund.

“These kiosks sum up what Grampians and Wimmera Mallee tourism is all about, delivering world-class, innovative experiences that make the region special,” he said.

“There’s so much on offer through the Grampians and Wimmera Mallee and this initiative will help visitors to experience more of this breathtaking part of Victoria.”

Delivered by Specialist Apps, the kiosks serve as hubs of knowledge, showcasing nearby businesses to encourage longer stays for visitors.

Each kiosk includes a wheelchair-accessible ramp, ensuring inclusivity for all, while an intuitive touch-screen interface with adjustable navigation options caters to users of varying heights.

Other key features include proximity awareness sensors that activate audio cues upon approach to engage visitors; free wi-fi and mobile charging points to keep visitors connected while enjoying the sights; CCTV for added security and access to emergency management feeds and warnings; and voice-activated features that allows users to interact through audio exchanges to discover attractions or get directions.

The kiosks – the world’s first transportable and foldable off-grid kiosks – can also be relocated depending on usage and visitor feedback to ensure optimal service.

Ararat hosts council leaders

Representatives from councils across western Victoria gathered in Ararat last week for a meeting of the Municipal Association of Victoria’s, MAV, Wimmera Southern Mallee Central Highlands Region group.

The meeting, at Gordon Street Recreation Reserve on Thursday, saw Ararat Rural City Council host officials from Horsham Rural City, Northern Grampians, Hindmarsh, West Wimmera, Yarriambiack, Hepburn, Moorabool and Pyrenees shire councils and City of Ballarat.

Ararat Mayor Jo Armstrong, the serving MAV Wimmera Southern Mallee Central Highlands Region group director, said the meeting covered the MAV’s campaign in the lead-up to the recent federal election and the State Government’s response to MAV submissions to the Inquiry into Local Government funding and services, as well as reviewing motions submitted from the region to the MAV state council meeting in May.

Nearly all of Victoria’s 79 councils were represented at the May meeting, which addressed the State Government’s controversial Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund, ESVF.

During the meeting councils objected to being made to collect the ESVF through rates on the

State Government’s behalf and moved the State Revenue Office be made to collect the principal place of residence component of the levy instead of councils.

Councils also called for the full reimbursement of costs incurred by local government for collection, reporting and debt-recovery services, as well as improved transparency and communication regarding the ESVF.

Other notable resolutions from the state council meeting reviewed last week included calls for early-years infrastructure funding, an evidencebased approach to recycling reforms, natural disaster recovery funding and countering misinformation.

Cr Amstrong said attendees also engaged in discussions on emerging regional issues directly relevant to the local government sector.

“Hosting this MAV regional meeting in Ararat has been an invaluable opportunity for our councils to unite, share insights, and advocate for the needs of our communities,” she said.

“The discussions last week, particularly around the ESVF and regional development, underscores our collective commitment to ensuring fair and effective governance for all Victorians.”

THUMBS UP: Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism chief executive Marc Sleeman and Northern Grampians Shire Mayor Karen Hyslop approve the Halls Gap digital kiosk.

‘When the Dust Settles’ premiere

BY TED JOHNSON

The Outback Mind Foundation, a men’s mental health charity, is partnering with film studio Zephyr Studios to bring an impactful story to Horsham audiences.

The documentary titled ‘When the Dust Settles’ details the stories of regional people losing their male friends and family members to suicide and the impact on everyone involved.

Founder of The Outback Mind Foundation

Aaron Schultz, who grew up in Horsham, said the movie aimed to educate regional men about mental health and give them a place to talk.

“The film really highlights the impact of male suicide, which is very rarely spoken about, and also what happens afterwards,” he said.

“And then we look at solutions and what we can do as communities to be able to address the problems so there’s less risk in the future.”

After 20 years of managing male teams across multiple industries, Mr Schultz said he saw first-hand the amount that silent, struggling rural men go through, so he decided to form The Outback Mind Foundation, in 2019.

Another catalyst for Mr Schultz was his best friend who took his own life more than 30 years ago.

“I lost a mate in 1994 and I was the last person to see him,” he said.

“If I had the ability to be able to pull him back

Business after dark

Greater Ararat Business Network hosted another of its Business After Dark events this month, with representatives from more than 25 local businesses in attendance.

Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the events were ‘a fantastic opportunity’ for people to showcase their businesses in a relaxed setting.

“Events like these provide a valuable space for businesses to connect, learn from each other, and grow stronger together,” he said.

People interested in attending or hosting the next Business After Dark event can contact Greater Ararat Business Network at admin@ gabn.org.au.

and be able to ask the right questions at the time, I have no doubt he would still be here.”

Outback Minds puts significant emphasis on proactive solutions to mental health issues, urging men to not just talk about their struggles, but to do it consistently.

Mr Schultz said he used the term ‘get on with it mentality’ to describe the mindset of those who suffered mentally yet refused to tell others in fear of being looked down upon.

“That mentality is so suffocating when you have stuff going on and it feels really difficult to talk about it. You don’t want to be a burden, or you don’t want to lay your stuff on other people,” he said.

“But it’s really important to get that energy out of your body and do it proactively.”

Mr Schultz, who currently lives in Ballarat, said he decided to return to Horsham to show his film because he owed a lot to its community.

“As a young boy, I knew that I wanted to do something good to help Horsham because the community had been really good to me,” he said.

The film will screen at Horsham Centre Cinemas on August 27. Tickets can be purchased online at events.humanitix.com/when-the-dustsettles-premier-horsham.

• Anyone experiencing mental-health issues can call Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, Lifeline, 131 114, Kids Helpline, 1800 551 800 or 13 YARN for Indigenous people.

Tyre disposal solution

Horsham Rural City Council has introduced a cheaper option for the disposal of unwanted tyres, helping to reduce illegal dumping and protect the environment.

Throughout the past 12 months, council reported a surge in the illegal dumping of tyres across rural roadsides, bushland and waterways.

To address this, the disposal fee for tyres at Horsham Transfer station has been reduced.

Director of infrastructure, John Martin said the change was part of a broader effort to make responsible waste disposal more accessible for everyone.

“This is about making it easier to do the right thing. We want to give our community practical solutions, not just penalties,” he said.

“Dumping tyres not only looks terrible – it can leach chemicals into the soil, create fire hazards and attract vermin.

“We all benefit when our parks, roadsides and natural areas are clean and cared for.”

Council is also monitoring known hotspots for illegal dumping so it can further crack down on the issue.

To further support safe waste practices, Mr Martin said a small charge for the disposal of whitegoods, particularly refrigerators, had been put in place.

“This covers the cost of safely handling the waste before recycling, preventing environmental damage,” he said.

For more information or to report illegal dumping, people can visit www.hrcc.vic.gov.au or call 5382 9777.

Bistro Open 7 Days

11.30am to 2pm & 5.30pm to 8pm (8.30pm on Fri & Sat) Available at lunch & dinner

Volleyball Horsham, David Berry:

We were lucky enough and really appreciative of the support the Horsham Sports and Community Club has given us for the publication of our fiftieth anniversary book. We received $1500.

The book is going to highlight 50 years of great male players, 50 years of great female players, 50 years of memorable wins and some great photos as well.

It’s important that we document the history of our clubs and associations and we’ve been lucky enough to have access to some great memories and files that we can put together to make a book.

DETAILS: ACE Radio Broadcasters’ newsreader Emma Clark, Ted Johnson, working with The Weekly Advertiser, and Aaron Schultz, founder of The Outback Mind Foundation discuss the premiere of documentary ‘When the Dust Settles’, to launch at Horsham Centre Cinema next month.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Patient care ire

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy and the State Government have traded barbs over Victoria’s nonemergency patient-transport system and the Victorian Patient Transport Assistance Scheme, VPTAS, with Ms Kealy calling for urgent reforms.

Ms Kealy, the deputy leader of the Victorian Nationals, said changes to eligibility criteria for non-emergency medical transport, as well as pre-existing issues with the VPTAS program, were preventing rural Victorians from accessing medical care.

“This government’s changes to non-emergency transport, combined with a VPTAS system in crisis, are leaving regional Victorians behind, especially those who rely on regular treatment like dialysis,” she said.

“Strict new rules around nonemergency patient transport might be manageable in Melbourne, but they are devastating for rural patients who don’t have alternative options.

“Patients who previously had access to subsidised travel are now being told they’re ineligible. For people in small towns with no public transport, this means they are missing appointments or unable to receive treatment altogether.”

Ms Kealy said VPTAS, a program through which rural patients can be reimbursed for the cost of travelling to access spe-

cialist care, had been plagued by issues.

“I am regularly contacted by constituents about lengthy delays with processing VPTAS applications. Patients are waiting months for reimbursements while calls and emails go unanswered. The system is clearly overwhelmed,” she said.

“With the rising cost of living, having to pay up front and then wait months to be reimbursed is putting significant financial strain on families already doing it tough.”

A State Government spokesperson said the Department of Health was currently training additional staff to speed up VPTAS application processing, as well as investigating technology solutions and other improvements that could provide a more efficient service. “We won’t be taking lectures from the Liberal-Nationals – the same party that went to war with our paramedics, cut health services, and stood by while their federal colleagues gutted primary care,” the spokesperson said.

“Our focus is on delivering better care closer to home for regional Victorians – the Victorian Patient Transport Assistance Scheme helps those who do need to travel long distances to receive specialist medical care.

“Reimbursement applications for VPTAS are reviewed as they come in chronologically – users of the service can submit a reimbursement application at any

point in the 12 months following their transport.”

Ms Kealy said in addition to reimbursement wait times, VPTAS eligibility criteria was creating barriers to medical treatment.

She said some rural patients were unable to access the scheme because they lived just inside a required travel threshold, even when no treatment was locally available.

“This is a system that punishes people for where they live,” she said.

“It is not just a bureaucratic failure – it is a moral one.

“Regional patients deserve affordable, timely access to care, and this government must stop ignoring the needs of rural communities.”

The government spokesperson said the VPTAS was periodically reviewed to ensure it met the needs of patients.

They said councils and community groups often offered alternative transport options locally, while statewide support was also available through Red Cross Patient Transport, Connect Health and Community, LINK Community and Transport, and Federal Government schemes including My Aged Care and the NDIS.

People can find more information about non-emergency medical transport by visiting www. health.vic.gov.au/rural-health/ victorian-patient-transportassistance-scheme-vptas#vptasguidelines.

to assist the municipality’s low

earners to have their cats desexed at Horsham vet clinics.

Horsham PAWS funding control

Animal welfare and support group Horsham PAWS has been granted $13,000 to provide a free desexing service to address cat overpopulation in the Horsham municipality.

Healthcare and pension card holders will be able to access the free program through Horsham PAWS, with Fur Life Vet and Your Family Vet clinics completing the services.

Horsham PAWS president Vicki Johnstone said the program would launch next month.

“We are going to desex as many cats as we possibly can,” she said.

“Being just before kitten season, this will hopefully reduce the number of kittens we have surrendered to us.”

Fur Life Vet clinic lead Nicole Timms said she had always been aware of an overpopulation of cats.

“For as long as I’ve been practicing there’s always been an overabundance of cats – we had two stray cats yesterday who were injured and had to be euthanised,” she said.

“To save having to do things like that would be wonderful. We’re always glad to

help Horsham PAWS with whatever we can, and this allows us as local vets to help our rescue groups.”

Horsham PAWS is one of 33 recipients in round 12 of the Animal Welfare Fund Grants program, with $1.6-million awarded to shelters, community rescue and rehoming organisations.

The program aims to improve companion animals’ welfare, encourage responsible pet ownership, and provide better animal welfare outcomes.

Ms Johnstone said Horsham PAWS had several health-checked, desexed and microchipped cats ready to be homed.

“We have 39 cats who could go to homes tomorrow,” she said.

Adoptable animals can be viewed at www. horshampaws.com.au/adoption.

People can visit the Horsham PAWS website or the Firebrace Street op shop at the beginning of August for more information and to register for the service.

Now hiring an unfor

UNITED: Horsham PAWS president Vicki Johnstone and Fur Life Vet Horsham’s clinic lead Nicole Timms unite

income

Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Defining career for Maddison

AWimmera woman is encouraging people to consider a career in child protection after describing her own experience in the field as ‘lifechanging’.

Maddison Cook, 23, joined the State Government Department of Families, Fairness and Housing’s child protection team in Horsham about three years ago after graduating university and said she had found the experience a positive one.

“I have found a real purpose in helping others that’s helped me grow and flourish in so many ways I just could not get in any other job,” she said.

Ms Cook, who grew up in the Wimmera, said a typical week in her role saw her taking on new investigations and making assessments for two days, while the other three days involved working directly with children and families to understand their needs and ensuring they were able to access services and support.

She said her confidence had grown since starting the job, especially when speaking with parents.

“As a young woman at the start of my career, I assumed parents would think I don’t know what I’m doing and I couldn’t help them,” she said.

“But I’m able to tailor my practice to each family, to get the best outcome for them.”

Ms Cook said helping a young mother in her first case on the job was a standout experience.

“Because we were similar in age, she was able to relate to me, and because of that I was able to have confidence in my skills and help her get things back on track,” she said.

“It’s something I’ve held close, and it continues to push me forward when I think

“Joining child protection has been the best decision I’ve made.

I’m grateful for the relationships I build with families, and my work mates are like family”

– Maddison Cook, right

of them. It’s an even more amazing feeling to think of all the families like hers, that are together because of the difference I made.”

Ms Cook said helping local families helped her feel a special connection to the Horsham community.

“There are jobs like mine in every part of the state,” she said.

“For people from the city who have always wanted to give country life a try, I say give it a go – it’s worth it to try a tree change, plus we have an amazing team.

“It is an emotionally driven industry, and we see the impact we have in the local area.

“My team is also amazing – we’re all there for each other.

“Joining child protection has been the best decision I’ve made. I’m grateful for the relationships I build with families, and my work mates are like family.”

Ms Cook encouraged others to consider a career in child protection, citing the opportunities the job offered.

“I have so many opportunities to wear different hats and pursue different paths in child protection,” she said.

“It’s about understanding where people come from and helping them through rough times so they can be at their best and that’s worth getting out of bed for every day.”

People interested in learning more about a career in child protection can visit vic. gov.au/child-protection-jobs.

Applications now open

Horsham Sports and Community Club has again allocated $50,000 to support groups and organisations in its area to realise major community projects. New projects, facility upgrades, and new initiatives can be submitted, and must be to the benefit of the wider community, not directed to any particular sporting, community, social or economic group.

In its fourth year, previous projects funded by the program are; Wimmera Health Care Group’s lung function testing unit, Christian Emergency Food Centre van and the smart water project at Horsham Cemetery.

Applicants will be shortlisted by the Horsham Sports and Community Club board before being put to club members to vote.

Applications are now open and will close at 5pm on August 14; people can visit hscc.au/50k for more information and to apply.

Seniors’ event

Sheep dog trial demonstrations and guest speakers from hit television series Muster Dogs will feature at a West Wimmera Shire Council seniors’ festival event in October.

Helen McDonald, Jack Kennedy, Kim Dodson and Rob Tuncks will share stories from the series, their experiences of working with dogs, and will showcase their dogs’ herding skills.

Muster Dogs merchandise will be available for sale.

At Kaniva Recreation Reserve on October 9, the event is open to the public and free tickets are available at the Eventbrite website.

DROYLSDEN HOUSE

SHED OPEN DAY

Sunday, July 27

10am to noon

Immerse yourself for a morning of wellness and mindfulness:

10.15am – 10 min meditation with Wendy 10.30am – 10 min sound bath with Judith 10.45am – 10 min chat with Sally 11am – 10 min chat with Carlie

Come along and experience our offerings in this beautiful space

Welcome to stay and chat with each practitioner after the sessions.

For all enquiries, please contact: Wendy Robertson info@wendyrobertsonwellness.com.au 145 Baillie Street, Horsham | 0425 742 994

Changemakers return inspired

Four women from the Wimmera-Grampians region have returned inspired from a three-day National Changemaker Gathering in Cairns.

Hosted by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation under the Federal Government’s Future Drought Fund initiative, the event brought together 47 leaders from across rural, regional and remote Australia with a focus on drought readiness and community.

Among attendees were West Wimmera Shire councillor Helen Hobbs, McKenzie Creek empowerment coach Sally Pymer, Yaapeet lawyer Alexandra Craig and behaviour support company Choosing Harmony founder Caroline Smith from Mount Cole Creek.

Participants took part in immersive learning sessions that covered listening practices, systems-thinking tools and future-building frameworks.

Ms Craig said it had been ‘incredibly inspiring’ to meet regional leaders from across Australia working to create change in their communities.

“The gathering offered exactly what I needed – space to reflect, recharge and reconnect with purpose,” she said.

Ms Smith described the conference as ‘a transformative experience’

“Surrounded by passionate individuals committed to justice, inclusion and community innovation, I was reminded that real change often begins with a single courageous conversation and grows through collective action,” she said.

“I left with a notebook full of ideas, but more importantly, a heart full of resolve.

“I began asking myself – what if Ararat could become a model for inclusive, neurodiversityaffirming communities?”

“The gathering offered exactly what I needed – space to reflect, recharge and reconnect with purpose”

– Alexandra Craig

Ms Pymer said she felt equally energised after attending the gathering.

“To be amongst 47 like-minded people from all over Australia was truly amazing – people who genuinely cared about their communities and were a sponge for information. I’ve come back so excited about the people I met and the positive possibilities ahead for our region,” she said.

Cr Hobbs said an adaptive cycle model resonated with her during the gathering.

“It helped me to understand that each town in the Wimmera is in a different part of the cycle –growth, maturity, collapse or renewal – and these phases are always shifting,” she said.

“We were reminded not to rush the discomfort of the collapse phase, because that’s where creativity and change often emerge.”

The participants thanked the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation, Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry for supporting the gathering.

“It was a surreal experience and so great to connect with a room full of visionaries. I walked away with clarity of thought, a deeper appreciation for story and a renewed belief in the importance of collaborative communication,” Cr Hobbs said.

More information about the National Changemaker Gathering is available at rural-leaders. org.au/revitalising-rural-resilience-throughchangemaker-workshops.

Chance to repurpose structure, site

Ararat Rotary Club and Ararat Rural City Council are seeking expressions of interest from the community to remove the Rotary Orchid House structure at Ararat’s Alexandra Gardens

The project will require the complete removal of the structure and shelving from its current site.

Ararat Rural City Council workplace health and safety rules will apply during the removal process.

The council will erect temporary fencing to ensure public safety during the works.

The structure has potential to be repurposed as a nursery shade house with shelving for plants, a livestock yard shelter, or a general-purpose shed.

Expressions of interest close on Wednesday, July 30 and should be directed to the Ararat Rotary Club secretary by texting or calling 0408 544265, or emailing rotaryararatsec@gmail. com.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the council had liaised with Ararat Rotary Club to arrange for the structure’s removal and consider new uses for the space.

He said the council gathered community input on the future of the site via the Engage Ararat website in March this year.

“We’re pleased to be working alongside the Ararat Rotary Club to remove the Rotary Orchid House structure at Alexandra Gardens,” Dr Harrison said.

“This project will not only clear the unused structure but also open new possibilities for the site, as we’ve explored with community input received earlier this year.

“We look forward to eventually seeing this space repurposed for everyone in the community to enjoy.”

Prime Highway Frontage

Commercial 2 Zoning Horsham – 157 Stawell Road – 6065m2

• One of the last blank canvas Highway blocks available.

• Large block size 6065m2 – a rare 50 m frontage with prominent exposure on the Western Highway.

• A great opportunity to design & construct your own industry specific showroom / offices.

Price: $1,100,000 plus GST

Mark Clyne M 0417 568 200 Features Include: Mountain views, fully-fenced, bitumen driveways, extra wide 7.0mt crossovers, 2-phase 40 amp power at pit, GWM Pipeline water available & extra wide road reserves. All lots are titled and ready to build on.

& Titles

LEADERS: From left, Wimmera-Grampians women Sally Pymer, Alexandra Craig, Caroline Smith and Helen Hobbs at the National Changemaker Gathering in Cairns. The four women were among 47 regional leaders to attend the gathering.

Finding your own ‘unique’ is key

Owning and operating a business has become an increasingly unpredictable journey.

The evolving preferences of local customers and online consumers are significantly shaped by external markets, making it essential to stay informed about new innovations, products, services, and methods of conducting business.

This has turned into a full-time commitment in its own right.

Sticking to the same approach creates a singular path, which can lead to a slow, and in some cases, a swift decline.

No matter your past achievements, the pursuit of improvement, innovation, and new goals should never be sidelined or saved for when you ‘have time’ – make time.

In today’s economic landscape, it is vital to take a step back and evaluate your business practices, identify your strongest revenue streams, and determine where improvements can be made.

This reflection is crucial for stimu-

Celebrating 150 years

Ararat Primary School’s 150 years of education and community will be celebrated in October, with a twoday event.

Former student and eventual school principal Bill Jones said the school had evolved to accommodate its students and their needs, following the informal start to education in the Ararat community.

“Initially, there were often church schools and privately-run schools by people who were not necessarily well educated,” he said.

“But by the 1860s we had a common school, which was partly government funded, and within 10 years it was too small, so it was decided to put a school on this site.

“Building commenced in April 1875 and the school, known as 800, opened in November.”

Mr Jones said while improvements were made to the school buildings, parts of the original school were identifiable.

BUSINESS

with Stacey Taig West Vic Business Ambassador

lating growth and enhancing your chances of survival.

What steps can you take to review your business, it’s products and or services?

Firstly, we need to acknowledge that times of crisis are often a chance for significant change and grabbing opportunity that previously we may not have been brave enough to reach for.

Secondly, searching for a unique selling proposition is key.

This is becoming tricky with exposure to a global market, a daily experience for most through social platforms.

But here lies your opportunity to identify new trends, new products and new services. More importantly, seeking out the potential for the experiential.

What can you do within your business that creates a unique experience for the customer or client?

Duplicating the success of others is easy. Saturating the market is also easy. So what is your ‘unique’? What will set you apart from the rest? What will make customers chose you over the others?

The answer lies somewhere in between adaptability, innovation and courage.

It could be a complete change of scenery is required.

It may be your current locale is no longer fit for purpose or positioned to capture your target audience.

At West Vic Business, we place a high level of importance on strategic leasing and clustering simply because it works.

You do not have to spend thousands on marketing, you simply position yourself where your target audience is on mass. A cluster of competitive or complimentary businesses is an ideal way

in which to ensure your customers, which are increasingly time-poor, will come to shop, especially when considering your online competition provides convenience and time efficiency.

If service based, look for business hubs. None available? Ever thought of property development?

These business parks are a sure-fire way to ensure long-term tenancy and help build sustainable tenants through increased foot traffic.

Doing business different is not only exciting, it’s crucial.

Look at your core product or service. Are there other opportunities that exist? Think laterally. Don’t dismiss the ‘crazy’. Discuss. Talk to your staff and customers.

If you are a member of a business group or chamber, ask for a one-onone with their small business advisor.

Sometimes the greatest ideas are the most obvious solution.

Most importantly, take the time to review your finances.

Evaluate your revenue streams and identify where your strongest path-

ways are. Build upon them and take advantages of the gaps.

Discard what is not working and seek out the new. Ensure your costings are sound, and that your product or service will in fact make you money. This sounds like common sense, but is often an overlooked fundamental of business planning.

Finding your ‘unique’ is the key to accomplishment.

As David J. Schwartz says ‘The size of your success is determined by the size of your belief. Think little goals and expect little achievements’.

Change is definitely here, but that shouldn’t be feared. Embrace the new and you capture opportunity.

Constant readjustment to the ever-changing business landscape is a chance to build big and reap the rewards.

Your uniqueness ensures you stand out from the rest, it puts you front of mind.

Embrace it, celebrate it and it will become your superpower.

Winter read challenge

Ararat Library is encouraging readers to snuggle up with a book as part of its annual Warm Winter Reads challenge. The challenge, now in its fourth year, is designed to encourage longlasting reading habits.

Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Tim Harrison encouraged people to select a book from their to-be-read pile, finish one they started months ago, or discover something new at the library.

“This reading challenge is a great way for community members to build lasting reading habits, discover new stories, and connect with the fantastic resources at our libraries,” he said. “Initiatives like this are key to promoting literacy and lifelong learning, both of which are essential for our community. I really encourage everyone to get involved and enjoy the journey of a good book.”

Mr Jones said people were welcome to contribute to the celebration event’s display of memorabilia.

“The last time we had a celebration we were able to get hold of some old photos, and people were able to

“Part of the school still has Gothicstyle windows, however they didn’t let a lot of light in, so by the 1920s there was a need to improve the school and a lot of those small windows were knocked out and bigger windows were put in,” he said. “A lot of the history of the school is intact, if you know where to look.”

name some that we already had,” he said.

“It’s important to build the social history of Ararat and the school, and the more documentation we can find, the richer that heritage is.

“There are families here that are now in their seventh or eighth generation at this school. It’s got quite a

rich history. It has a significant history in terms of students as well, with politicians and doctors and scientists and a whole range of human endeavour because of education here.”

People can follow the school’s Facebook page or website to find updates of the October 24 and 25 event.

– Bronwyn Hastings

The challenge is open to anyone aged 16 and older, and includes audiobooks, graphic novels and magazines.

To participate, people track what they read each day until August 31 for a chance to win book-themed prizes. Participants must register via readbooks.com.au and track their reading efforts online.

For more information, people can call Ararat Library on 5352 1722.

PLANNING: Former student and principal of Ararat Primary School 800 Bill Jones, with current school captains Mia Taurau, Emma Louden and Joe Bennett, discuss the school’s upcoming 150th birthday celebrations. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Tax time

Take your time, get it right

Australia’s largest accounting body, CPA Australia, reported that one of the biggest and most common mistakes taxpayers will make this tax time is rushing to lodge their returns.

Last year, about three million individual tax returns were lodged by July 23, soaring to 5.8 million by August 20.

CPA Australia’s tax lead Jenny Wong urges taxpayers to take time to gather their evidence of work-related expenses over the next few weeks and wait for the ATO to pre-fill their information before lodging.

“Cost-of-living pressures could mean some people are eager to lodge their tax return as quickly as possible to access a refund, but it’s important to be patient, gather your evidence and claim everything you are entitled to,” she said.

“Firing the starting pistol on your tax return too quickly means you could end up shooting yourself in the foot.

“There’s a misconception that lodging early means you’ll receive your refund first, but it’s not as simple as that.

“It is common for people who lodge early to end up having to amend their returns later anyway, so it’s best to wait. It’ll save you in the long run.”

“Failure to properly declare your income increases your chances of being audited by

the ATO. Failing to claim everything you’re entitled to means less cash back than you could otherwise get”

– Jenny Wong

Ms Wong said another common mistake people made was not giving enough thought to how their circumstances have changed during the past 12 months.

“Some people go into autopilot when they do their tax returns,” she said.

“They cut and paste from their last return and fail to consider any changes to their personal circumstances.

“Turn off the autopilot and take time to seriously consider what’s different about your expenses this year and think about what you could claim.

“Maybe you travelled more for work and were not reimbursed by your employer for meals or other travel essentials.

“Or maybe you started a new job where you had to buy tools, subscriptions, or pay for training and security clearances, for example.

“Check what type of expenses you

At

BE PREPARED: Taxpayers are urged to take time to gather their evidence of work-related expenses over the next few weeks to prepare their information before lodging.

could claim that are relevant to your type of work.

“The ATO has a comprehensive guide to industry and occupation types.

“We strongly advise against using AI advice when preparing your tax return.”

CPA Australia encourages taxpayers to consider seeking professional advice with their returns, especially if they have complex finances and earning activities such as owning rental properties and crypto assets.

This cost is itself tax deductible.

Ms Wong reminds taxpayers not to exaggerate work-related claims.

“Getting your tax return right is your responsibility,” she said.

“This means declaring all of your income and claiming the appropriate expenses.

“Failure to properly declare your income increases your chances of being audited by the ATO.

“Failing to claim everything you’re entitled to means less cash back than you could otherwise get.”

Protection from scams

Millions of Australians are preparing to lodge their tax returns – and scammers are actively seeking new ways to exploit personal information.

If successful, they can use stolen details not only to commit fraud against the Australian Taxation Office, ATO, but also carry out broader identity theft and financial crimes across the community.

The ATO has reported a sharp rise in impersonation scams, with a 150 per cent increase over the past 12 months. Ninety per cent of ATO impersonation scams are sent via email.

To help keep personal information safe and protected, the ATO’s app now has powerful new safety features designed to give users real-time control over their tax affairs through alerts and instant account locking to help stop fraudsters in their tracks.

ATO assistant commissioner Rob Thomson said downloading the ATO app was simple and an effective way to stay one step ahead.

“We have strengthened the ATO app with new security features. It’s fast, free and puts security in your hands, giving you the power to monitor your account in real-time and instantly lock it if something doesn’t feel right. People can also report the interaction on the ATO website or call 1800 467 033 during business hours to discuss any suspicious activity,” he said.

People can find out more at ato.gov.au/ scamsafe.

Our

Ease your tax season stress

It is the same time every year, but it seems that no matter how prepared property investors are for June 30, when it comes to gathering up the necessary documentation to complete tax returns, this exercise creates more stress than it should.

This process can be made much easier if proper methods of recordkeeping are put in place – and the best part is that once you have your system in place, it should work every year.

To make tax time easier this year, all you need are a few manila folders marked with the following:

• Loan statements: These statements are important for calculating, and subsequently deducting, the interest costs on your investment loan.

• Invoices and receipts for repairs, replacements and capital works: These costs may be claimed on your tax return.

• Rates notices: These notices detail the applicable rates charges on

Take the extra time to set up your system this year and when the next June 30 rolls around you will be so glad you did

your property, and should be retained alongside your other records to be claimed as a tax-deductible expense.

• Real estate statements: These statements detail necessary information about your rental property income, the real estate agent’s management costs, and perhaps even repairs undertaken on the property.

• Insurance policies: Keep these on hand at tax time as any premiums for building replacement, contents, or landlord insurance can be claimed as tax-deductible expenses.

• Depreciation schedule: Depreciation is a valuable means of generating tax deductions. Keep a depreciation schedule and include any depreciation on buildings or fittings in your tax

Tax time

return to help reduce your assessable income.

It also makes sense to keep this information together in a secure location.

A good idea is to scan documentation and store the information electronically to minimise the piles of paperwork.

Some mobile phone apps allow you to take a photo of a document and save it in various document formats.

However, it is important to retain the hard copies.

Be aware that any records relating to deductions claimed for property expenses must be retained for at least five years in order to comply with the

requirements of the Australian Taxation Office.

Take the extra time to set up your system this year and when the next June 30 rolls around you will be so glad you did.

• Information provided by Consortium Private Wealth, Horsham.

ATO: Have your morning coffee before opening messages

Australia’s largest accounting body,

CPA Australia, is urging people to be wary of tax scam emails, SMS and other communications this tax time, including those that arrive in your inbox overnight designed to catch you off-guard in the morning.

CPA Australia tax lead Jenny Wong said Australians should prepare for a deluge of scam activity around June 30 – and make sure they have their morning coffee before opening emails and text messages.

“Scammers take advantage of any situation, and at tax time that means targeting unsuspecting individuals through unsolicited messages claiming to be the ATO or another reputable organisation,” she said.

“These ‘phishing’ scams not only look legitimate, but they’re designed to catch you off-guard.

“That’s why you’ll often see them arrive first thing in the morning because you may be more likely to have

a momentary lapse in judgement.

The scammers know Australians will have tax on their mind and are vulnerable to prompts to act, which is why these messages usually create a sense of urgency or claim of significant refund.

“While they could come at any time, be especially careful opening up and reading messages while you’re still waking up in the morning.

“It’s crucial to see through the lies and review these communications with a clear mind once you’ve started your day and had a coffee or two.”

Data from the National Anti-Scam Centre shows a significant increase in scam losses in the first four months of 2025.

The biggest increase in reported losses comes from phishing scams – where scammers impersonate government agencies and financial institutions – accounting for $13.7-million in losses, compared to $4.6-million

in early 2024. Meanwhile the ATO reported impersonation email scams had increased by more than 300 per cent from this time last year.

Scam emails seen by CPA Australia include titles like: ‘Urgent new notification in your account inbox’. The messages direct individuals to log into their myGov account and claim to provide a secure link.

These messages try to trick individuals to click the link to see ‘official government correspondence’, an ‘update regarding your benefits’, a ‘new refund notification’ or they need to click to ‘avoid being penalised’. They even encourage individuals to ‘keep checking your inbox to stay informed about important updates related to your tax, pension and other government services’.

How to spot tax scams

Distinguishing between legitimate and scam messages from the ATO

is becoming increasingly difficult, however there are signs.

• Look for any grammatical errors and unusual language. This could include American English spellings such as using ‘z’ instead of ‘s’ for certain words.

• The ATO does not use hyperlinks in unsolicited SMS messages. If you see any links in an unsolicited SMS or any QR codes in a message claiming to be from the ATO, treat it as a scam.

• When it comes to emails, check the sender’s address. Anything unusual is a red flag. If the address includes the acronym ATO or Australian Taxation Office in full, look for subtle anomalies like using a number, adding extra letters, or even removing a letter.

• Be wary of anyone making unexpected requests for personal or financial information, especially if they claim it is urgent. The ATO will

never ask for passwords, account numbers or other sensitive data by email or SMS.

• If you see a social media account claiming to be the ATO or myGov, look for the official logo and profile verification, such as the blue tick on Facebook and Instagram or grey tick on X. The ATO will never discuss your personal ATO account on any social media platform, including private messages.

• If you’re still unsure, you should always verify if the contact is legitimate by contacting the ATO on 1800 008 540 or by visiting the verify or report scam page on the official ATO website.

Tax scams are the topic of one of four special CPA Australia With Interest podcasts this month with Joda Water, Assistant Commissioner of Cyber Governance at the ATO.

HELP AT HAND: Consortium Private Wealth Horsham staff, from left, Olivia Glare, Rachael Todman, Robert Goudie, Amy Lehmann and Ashley Rowan.

Your Trusted Smash Repair Service is now in Horsham

Gemcan Autobody offers comprehensive services designed to meet all your vehicle’s needs. Our expertise covers everything from smash repairs to car spray painting and detailing.

At Gemcan Autobody, we take great pride in our work and strive for excellence in everything. You can trust us to handle your vehicle with care and attention to detail like ours.

We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and exceeding your expectations. With us, you can ensure your vehicle is in the best hands.

A family-owned business with extensive experience.

Fully licensed and insured, giving you peace of mind

A dedicated team of skilled technicians at your service

Commitment to using high-quality materials.

OPEN DAY

Friday, July 25, 2025

Gemcan Autobody is bringing its streamlined, professional automotive repair business to Horsham, combining city pace and country service in the former Mick Cramer Smash Repairs premise.

Co-owner Josh said he had holidayed in the region with his wife Laura and four children for several years, enjoying water sports and motorbiking, and wanted to become a bigger part of the community.

“We were notified that Mick wanted to get out of the shop, so we took a drive and had a bit of a squiz, and saw the shop’s potential,” he said.

Josh and business partner Mark bought the business earlier this year in May.

They have been in partnership for several years, owning a variety of automotive-based businesses across Melbourne and Geelong.

Mark a spray painter by trade, decided he wanted to branch away from his employment and do something on his own, so we opened our own shop in Geelong about two years ago.”

Josh is a mechanic by trade, earning an apprenticeship at the age of 14 in eastern Melbourne, and working his way into bigger and better premises.

and more ...

In 2017, Josh & Laura opened their own mechanic shop under their own brand, which grew into bigger premises and eventually branched into smash repairs and advanced driver assistance system, ADAS calibration.

“We are partnered repairers for YOUI, Allianz, RACV, QBE, CGU, Suncorp and the Auto & General group, Josh said.

Horsham’s Gemcan Autobody is currently installing several state-of-the-art machines in its workshop, streamlining the repair process, and keeping essential services in-house.

“Mark and I are really big on product, everything we use is

In the big blue shed next to the old mill

high-quality because it does show in the end result,” Josh said.

Mr Cramer was set to close his business in April if it was not sold, but Gemcan Autobody’s purchase has ensured its continuing service to the region, although with some differences in practices and staffing.

Josh & Mark are looking to be part of the community.

“We do want to be part of the community – Mark and I sponsor some cricket, footy & netball clubs and all that sort of thing back home,” he said.

“We want to build that network here.”

PUZZLEs

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

Quick Workout

Fit the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.

Each word must be four letters or more * Find at least one nine letter word

* No swear words * No verb forms or plurals ending in ‘s’ * No proper nouns and no hyphenated words

Fit the given numbers into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same No number is repeated in any hexagon

Hyundai’s crown

Hyundai has crowned its Australian Ioniq battery electric vehicle range with the Ioniq 9, a three-row large SUV that delivers 600 kilometres of claimed driving range and ‘lounge-like’ comfort.

It is priced from $119,750 before on-road costs – or $9367 north of the brand’s next most-expensive model, the ballistic Ioniq 5 N.

Arriving in Australia as a single, fully-equipped Calligraphy grade with six and seven-seat layout options, the Ioniq 9 is positioned as a premium alternative to electric people movers and three-row electric SUVs such as corporate cousin Kia’s EV9 and premium brand Volvo’s EX90.

Hyundai undercuts the entry-level Volvo EX90 Plus by $5240, while commanding a $22,750 premium over the base Kia EV9 Air, although the Ioniq 9’s standard 110.3kWh battery pack eclipses the Kia for capacity across all three EV9 grades – 76.1kWh

base, 99.8kWh for Earth and GT-Line.

Against its most direct rival, the similarly specified EV9 GT-Line, priced from $121,000 plus on-road costs, the Ioniq 9 offers comparable luxury appointments and a larger battery for $1250 less, though Volvo’s EX90 Plus delivers slightly more battery capacity and Swedish prestige for those willing to stretch an extra $5240.

Those cross-shopping against electric people movers could look to the Volkswagen ID.Buzz GTX from $109,990, Mercedes-Benz eVito Tourer from $136,898, LDV Mifa 9 from $104,000 or Zeekr 009 from $135,900, all plus on-road costs.

Powered by twin 157kW electric motors, the all-wheel drive Ioniq 9 produces 314kW of power and 700Nm of torque, which Hyundai claims to enable zero to 100kmh acceleration in 5.2 seconds and 80 to 120kmh for overtaking in 3.4 seconds.

Built on Hyundai Motor Group’s ubiquitous 800-volt Electric-Global

Modular Platform, E-GMP, the flagship SUV is said to charge from 10 to 80 per cent in as little as 24 minutes when connected to a 350kW DC charger.

The Ioniq 9 introduces several Australian firsts for the Hyundai brand, including ‘Digital Key 2.0’ technology and Google Places Search integration, joining Hyundai’s Bluelink smartphone-enabled connected car services and over-the-air update capability.

The interior combines a 3130mm wheelbase and flat floor to create what Hyundai describes as ‘the most spacious cabin in its class, accommodating up to seven occupants in lounge-like comfort’.

A curved dashboard display combines dual 12.3-inch instrument cluster and infotainment interfaces, while Nappa leather upholstery, synthetic leather door panels and aluminium garnish promise to create a premium look and feel.

The six-seater configuration carries

Ioniq 9 flagship electric SUV arrives with 600km range claim, luxury features

a $2000 premium and gains a ‘Universal Island 2.0 Centre Console’, which slides up to 190mm fore and aft to provide access to storage for both first and second-row occupants, plus ‘relaxation seats’ for second-row passengers, matching those at the front.

Claimed cargo capacity also remains decent with all three rows occupied, offering 338 litres behind the third row and expanding to 908 litres behind the second row. Additional storage is provided by a front cargo area under the bonnet.

The ‘Connected Car Navigation Cockpit’ infotainment system incorporates artificial intelligence voice recognition for handsfree control as part of the primarily touchscreen user interface.

Hyundai’s ‘Digital Key 2.0’ debuts in Australia with the Ioniq 9, featuring both near-field communication and ultra-wideband technology for automatic unlocking from approximately one metre away using a smartphone.

The digital key can be stored on one device and shared with up to 15 others, functioning without mobile network signals and continuing to work even with a flat smartphone battery.

The Ioniq 9 features comprehensive safety equipment including 10 airbags.

Hyundai’s SmartSense technology suite includes second-generation forward collision avoidance, highway driving assist and lane following assist systems along with blind-spot monitoring, blind-spot camera views on the digital cluster, and key-operated remote parking assist. Digital door mirrors are available for $3000 extra.

The Ioniq 9 rides on MacPherson strut front and five-link rear suspension.

Hyundai provides a five-year unlimited kilometre vehicle warranty and eight-year/160,000km high-voltage battery warranty.

– Haitham Razagui

Mazda calls for CX-5 hybrid ASAP

The third-generation Mazda CX-5 will arrive in Australia in mid-2026 with a revised version of its predecessor’s naturallyaspirated petrol four-cylinder engine, while a more powerful and lower-CO2 hybrid engine option will not join the range until late 2027 or 2028.

The delay between the CX-5’s model changeover in Australia and the addition of a new Mazda-developed hybrid system for the best-selling midsize SUV is linked to engineering and production timing, which is prioritising left-hand drive at two key life cycle stages.

Mazda has not finished development work on its bespoke ‘Skyactiv-Z’ petrol-electric hybrid powertrain, which will see the new CX-5 directly target the Toyota RAV4 hybrid on fuel economy while potentially outpunching it on power.

As a result, in the face of stiff CO2 emissions penalties in Australia – and even more urgently in Europe – the Hiroshima, Japan-based carmaker will rely on lower-emission, detuned versions of its familiar 2.5-litre Mazda ‘Skyactiv-G’ non-hybrid, non-turbo engine.

Despite Japan sharing right-handdrive status with Australia, production of the third-gen CX-5 will initially be left-hook in order to prioritise European deliveries, which start in late

2025 with a mild hybrid version of the Skyactiv-G engine, though power and torque figures have not been released.

In Australia, the new CX-5’s carryover 2.5-litre, all-wheel drive launch combination skips the mild hybrid in favour of pure petrol, though the detuned 132kW-244Nm outputs should result in a shallow CO2 reduction compared to its predecessor’s 172gkm emissions.

While it remains available for now, in outgoing CX-5 shape, Mazda’s punchy turbocharged version of the ‘G’ engine, which made 170kW420Nm, has been discontinued in

large part because of its stubbornly high 191gkm emissions, according to Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi.

“New Vehicle Efficiency Standard does have an impact on a turbocharged, performance-type powertrain,” Mr Bhindi said.

But salvation is on the horizon in the form of the CX-5’s future hybrid engine, which is slated to produce more power and torque than the nonhybrid while slashing CO2 emissions to a level closer to that of the Toyota RAV4 hybrid.

“The US market has informed that

2027 is when they will be launching the hybrid,” Mr Bhindi said.

“Australia will be thereabouts. We have requested it earlier rather than later.”

Meanwhile, US outlet CarBuzz quoted Mazda North America vicepresident of strategic planning Stefan Meisterfeld as stating the CX-5 hybrid system would have performance comparable to or exceeding the turbo powertrain.

Unlike the US-market Mazda CX50, which is available with a hybrid engine utilising a Toyota hybrid system used by the Corolla Cross,

the CX-5 hybrid’s electrified powertrain employs in-house hybrid tech designed to meet Mazda’s internal driving dynamics goals.

“There is still a lot of engineering work to be done on the CX-5 hybrid)” Mr Bhindi said.

“Our engineers are ensuring they fine-tune it to capture that ZoomZoom feeling. It will be very Mazda. It will deliver the things important to what the driver feels in the car.”

When the CX-5 hybrid does finally arrive in Australia – either squeezing into late 2027 or in early 2028, depending on whether Mazda Australia gets its way – it is likely the non-hybrid engine will stick around as a more affordable option.

The CX-5 hybrid powertrain is likely to sit above the non-hybrid in the line-up, at least while some level of customer demand remains.

Australia has accounted for seven per cent of the 4.15-million CX-5 sales banked by Mazda since the model’s inception in 2012, meaning the Australian regulatory environment plays an outsized role in product planning for the vehicle.

Local NVES emissions laws penalise fleet average CO2 emissions of greater than 141gkm in 2025, but these limits tighten annually – relevantly to just 92 and 68gkm respectively in 2027 and 2028, being the release window for the CX-5 hybrid.

– Tom Baker

On This Day

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: July 21, 2005 –George Taylor, originally from Drung, reminisced about his life as a shearer. After tagging along with his father to South Australia as a young boy, Mr Taylor scored an opportunity due to a shortage of shearers. An elderly man at the shearing shed asked him if he wanted to learn how to shear and he accepted. Mr Taylor, pictured with his wife Marge, went on to teach more than 100 other shearers including four of his own children.

10 years ago: July 1, 2015

Ten-year-old Brodie Fitzgerald of Horsham featured as an extra in the film, The Dressmaker, a major motion picture starring Kate Winslet, Liam Hemsworth, Judy Davis and Hugo Weaving. He was one of about a dozen children from across Victoria and New South Wales to be chosen as an extra for the film. Brodie’s mother Lisa said her son fitted the casting director’s brief of a ‘skinny white kid with freckles’.

Five years ago: July 22, 2020

Ss Michael and John’s Primary School teacher Anna Robertson retired after a career spanning more than 40 years. Throughout her long-term employment, Mrs Robertson has seen her year one and two students grow up to put their own children through the same school, or even start working as there as her colleagues. According to then-principal, Andrea Cox, she provided ‘invaluable support for many children.’

One year ago: July 24, 2024

Grampians Health Edenhope purchased a variety of toys to be used in paediatric care, particularly speech and occupational therapy. Speech pathologist Daniella Macolino said this was a unique idea that she had not seen implemented anywhere else.

TaKE a BREaK

yOUR LUCKy sTaRs

FOR THE WEEK JULY 27 TO AUGUST 2

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 9, 6, 5, 2

Lotto Numbers: 9, 15, 26, 35, 36, 30

1. Born on this day in 1989 was which movie star famous for his roles in the Harry Potter films?

2. In what year did the band Journey release its iconic song titled Don’t Stop Believin’?

3. Which AFL team won the 2016 grand final?

4. Which country has the fourth largest population in the world?

5. Italian-American actor Tony Sirico played which character in the television series The Sopranos – Uncle Junior, Silvio Dante, Paulie Walnuts, or Christopher Moltisanti?

6. How many direct male descendants does Genghis Khan have?

7. What is the most popular sport for Canada, Finland and Latvia?

8. What is the most populated city in the world?

9. What was Pixar’s first feature-length film?

10. Who is the quote: “sometimes I think I am the tiredest man on Earth” attributed to?

You may receive surprising news from afar, affecting your close relationships. When seeking support, start with the most obvious people – they’ll likely be the most understanding.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 4, 6, 5, 9

Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 26, 9, 7, 11

Increased focus on health and fitness will add more activity to your life in the coming months. Expect luck in games of chance and a delightful surprise from your loved ones.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 4, 9, 6, 7

Lotto Numbers: 4, 15, 29, 37, 9, 22

This is a busy period for career matters, and decisions about someone in your life may need attention. However, there’s room for fun, making it an exciting time overall.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 6, 5

Lotto Numbers: 2, 15, 26, 9, 33, 34

Your career is set to improve, with positive changes likely on the horizon. While relationships may feel stagnant, better times are on their way.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 6, 5

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 26, 35, 40, 5

Answers: 1. Daniel Radcliffe. 2. 1981. The song reached -num ber eight on Billboard’s mainstream rock chart and number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. 3. Western Bulldogs, previously known as Footscray, won their first premiership since their win in 1954. 4. Indonesia, with a population of 270 million as of their last census in 2020, ranks behind the United States, China and India. 5. Paulie Walnuts. 6. 16 million. According to research published by the American Journal of Human Genetics in 2003, approximately 16 million men across east Asia carry a Y chromosome that is assumed to have originated from Genghis Khan. 7. Ice Hockey. 8. Tokyo, with a population of more than 37 million. 9. Toy Story. 10. Abraham Lincoln. Getting

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

Pty Ltd, 1 McKoy Street, West Wodonga, and distributed by regional distributors and Australia Post.

A hectic social schedule could leave you longing for rest. Domestic tensions may arise if someone feels neglected. Strive for balance to manage these challenges effectively.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 4, 6, 2, 3

Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 26, 36, 39, 8

Restarting stalled projects may feel disheartening, but persistence will pay off. Leave financial decisions to the experts and watch your diet to maintain good health.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 6, 5

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 25, 26, 33, 36

You should begin reaping the rewards of your hard work, but only effort will yield results. New ideas could revitalise your relationships during this period.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 4, 9, 3, 2

Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 26, 36, 34, 45

Resist the urge to be overly aggressive. Focus on your goals and avoid unnecessary risks. Your social life may be active, but it could impact your rest.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 2, 3

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 32, 23, 36, 38

This marks the beginning of an exciting time for relationships. Be mindful of those close to you, as your availability is vital to them. New business connections are likely to succeed.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 5, 6

Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 26, 9, 22, 4

Travel plans should proceed smoothly and bring enjoyment. Relationships will deepen, offering more understanding and support.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 2, 3

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 26, 34, 40, 45

Yearning for solitude might cause tension with loved ones, so communicate your plans. A budding idea could lead to success if appropriately nurtured.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Lilac

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 2, 1, 3, 2

Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 26, 5, 44, 41

Avoid overpromising during this period and stick to a strict budget. Exciting career developments could be on the horizon.

LOCAL TRADE DIRECTORY

is the man to see for any repairs on your car.

Horsham Car Spares and Repairs team has been operating in the Horsham area for more than 20 years.

Macka and his team are known for their strong focus on customer service and ensuring each customer’s car leaves the business repaired efficiently.

Even people who have moved away from Horsham district will still make the effort to have their cars repaired at Horsham Car Spares and Repairs.

Horsham Car Spares and Repairs provides all general car servicing and repairing.

They have a large range of new and second-hand parts on site to deal with any mechanical repairs.

Macka and the team are also licenced to sell and buy cars, licence number 10773.

If your car is ever in need of a repair job – big or small – make sure you contact Horsham Car Spares and Repairs.

The business is open Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.30pm, and Saturday, 9.30am to 12.30pm.

Contact Macka and the team today on 5381 2434.

Classifieds

Christine Haven’t aged a bit!

Love always from your loving family

Wishing Bryan & Christine a Happy 49th Wedding Anniversary

CREASEY, Peter Con

02.03.1947 – 13.07.2025

Passed away peacefully on 13.07.2025

Dearly loved husband of Lisa Creasey.

Father to Mark, Heather, Timothy (Dec), Charles (Dec), Rebecca, Mathew & all his grandchildren. Forever in our hearts.

Horsham & District

Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

~ O’REILLY ~ David Hugh

Passed away peacefully at Frankston on Saturday, aged 92 years.

Dearly loved husband of Jean.

Cherished and loving father of Peter, Jon and Catherine.

Loved father-in-law of Margaret and Catherine.

Treasured “Popsie” of Hannah and Sophie.

Son of Hugh and Jessie, brother of Mollie, Will and Margaret (all dec).

The Young Farmer has shut the gate for the last time. Always in our hearts

ROBERTS, Noel David

Passed away on July 14, 2025 aged 73 years.

Loved father to Kerrie (dec), Debra and their families.

Cherished brother and brother-in-law of Janette & Ray, Brian & Jacki.

Reunited with his loved ones

TEPPER, (nee Smith)

Marion “Janice”

Passed away peacefully at St John of God Hospital, Ballarat on July 13, 2025 aged 65 years.

Dearly loved wife of Daryl.

Loving mother and mother in law of Katelyn & Gerard; Aaron & Amy; Matthew; Nathan & Carly.

Adored Oma to Kaden and Amelia; Sienna & Isobel; Louie, Isla and Oakley.

Cherished by her brothers, sisters and their families. In God’s Care

TYLER

(nee Berry), Shirley Janet

Passed away on July 21, 2025 aged 90 years.

Dearly loved wife of Tom (dec).

Loving mother and mother in law to Neville & Christine; Glenn & Sue; and their families.

Reunited with Tom CREASEY, Peter Con

The memorial service for the late Mr. Peter Creasey will be held at the Horsham Salvation Army Church on Saturday 2nd of August 2025 commencing at 1pm.

Peter will be sent for private cremation prior to service. No livestream will be available.

Amity & Dylan Hartwich 5382 1149

GEORGE, Eric William

The Funeral of Eric William George will leave Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Horsham on Tuesday, 29 July 2025 after a service commencing at 1.30pm for the Horsham Lawn Cemetery.

The service may be viewed online at youtube.com/@ horshamlutheranchurchaus tr7146

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

KOOP, Keith Norman

The funeral service for Keith will be held at St Paul’s Lutheran Church, Nhill on Thursday, 31 July 2025 at 1:30 pm.

Emiley & Mathew Bone Nhill, Dimboola & Kaniva District Funerals 0419 008 464

MATTHEWS, Anthony ‘Tony’

The funeral service for the late Mr. Tony Matthews will be held at Brimpaen cemetery on Friday August 1st 2025 commencing at 11am.

Amity & Dylan Hartwich 5382 1149

ROBERTS, Noel David

The Funeral of Noel David Roberts will take place at St John’s Anglican Church, Horsham on Friday, 25 July 2025 commencing at 2pm. Private cremation.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

RUSSELL, Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Mary Anne

Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Ms. Betty Russell will be held at Ss Michael & John`s Catholic Church, Horsham Friday 25th of July 2025 Commencing at 11am, Interment to follow at the Horsham Lawn Cemetery

Amity & Dylan Hartwich 5382 1149

TYLER, Shirley Janet

A Memorial Service to Celebrate the Life of Shirley Janet Tyler will take place at the Rupanyup Community Centre (Gibson Street) next Thursday, 31 July 2025 commencing at 2pm. Privately interred.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

3 year old black and tan bitch working kelpie, great yard dog, Ph or PM for details to Harry 0458318200

8 week old Miniature Dachshunds puppies , 1 male and 1 female, ready for new home, microchipped and vaccinated, m/chip# 985141007722153/4 $2500 each Ph 0421756746

Aged pensioner looking to buy a male chihuahua, 1 1/2 - 2 years old Ph 0421237043

Beeamma White, Australian White Stud purebred rams , private sale on farm, BRUC, ACC, OJD, VAC, ewes available, Elders Alan Thompson 0427849779, Rod Donnell (08) 87582095

Bristlenose catfish, great tank cleaners $5ea until sold out Ph 0474159010 after 6.30pm

Budgies, assorted colours $10 each Ph 0417533579

Love birds assorted colours $20 each pick up only Warracknabeal Ph 0447776408

Mini Foxy/ Jack Russell pups, 2 males, ready to go, microchipped, vaccinated, vet checked and wormed, microchip# 95301000773

8028/953010007737972, source# MB116953 Ph 0409350743 or 0458913225

Mixed breed of goats, pregnant females, young male goats, mixed sheep available for sale, call for prices Ph 0414851313

Princess Parrots for sale, breeding pairs, various colours Ph 0439655239

Stawell area

Purebred German Shepherd , 13 weeks old, black and tan, great temperament, toilet trained, straight, 2 boys source# MB115424, m/chip# 953010007067038/7069200 Ph 0421018631

Purebred German Shepherd, 7 months, black and tan, great temperament, toilet trained, straight, one boy & one girl source# MB115424, m/chip# 956000016586733/6681104 Ph 0421018631

Spoodle puppys, 2 Spoodle girls could one of these girls be the missing piece in your life, raised in a loving family environment with sweet natures, 6 week vacations, microchip and vet checked, ready to join their new furever families ����microchip# 956000017221175 & 956000018924045, source # EE223376 $2500 Ph 0400035456

Restored Antique cast iron/timber garden benches $250 each Ph 53522691

Purebred black faced

Dorper , rams and ewes, rams 2yrs old, ewes 9months old, pic# 3HSDC083 Ph Liz

13' 1992 Colt Caravan, tv, a/c, 2way fridge, awning, VGC, reg till May 25, as is $8500 Ph 0487750540

1993

Jayco Micro Poptop 12ft roll out, awning, 2 singles, fridge cooker, 11mths reg 35970C $5250 Ph 0490364260

caravans

Antiques

2000 Jayco starcraft, full annex, TV lots of extras, very good condition, one owner, very little use $20,000 or nearest offer Ph 0456601681

2013 Jayco Starcraft, 21', one owner, very little use, as new, many added extras

$40,000 Ph 0427909230

2014 JB dirt roader

19’caravan , full ensuite queen bed, 3 way fridge washing machine, reverse cycle a/c diesel heater, Sirocco fans, 2 solar panels, 2 batteries, 280 litres water

$44,000 Ph 0427902375

Beulah

2015 Jayco StarCraft 20ft

6' dual axle, full ensuite, queen bed, L shape seating, full oven, agm battery bike rack, full size fridge freezer, reverse cycle heating cooling, washing machine, new tyres 12 months rego, ESC $39000 ono Ph 0429227860

2017 Ezytrail Stirling, excellent condition, forward folding hard floor, full annex, 600w inverter, TV, 80lt WACO fridge, memory foam mattress topper, always stored undercover, $18,500 ono Ph 0439022870

2017 Jayco Starcraft caravan, 16', queen size bed, full oven, ensuite, easy to tow, hardly used, as new van Ph 0429982394

2019 Ezy Trail Stirling GT

Mark 2 camper, EC, full annex, used 4 times, full rego

$14,999 ono Ph 0428820446

Caravan 20' full length, solid annex, ensuite shower, basin toilet, on permanent site in Portland Seaside Caravan Park, fully furnished, for holidays or permanent living

$5800ono Ph 0432544164

Caravan 2015 Jayco starcraft, 16ft, queen sized bed, tv, full sized fridge freezer, microwave, gas electric hotplates and oven, toilet and shower, full annex, sway bars $42,000 ono Ph 0417573022

Colorado Summit 210E 21' Queen bed, large ensuite, full oven, 3way fridge, washing machine, A/C, diesel heater, sirocco fan, solar panels., lithium battery, AC-DC charger, rollout awning Great condition many extras $48000 ONO Ph 0400189163

Jayco Finch Pop Top , double beds with fly mesh, electric brakes, boat rack, annex $12,000 Ph 53582560

Jayco Optimum 2013 motor home 28.5', 2 slides, extras inc, 400 watt solar, diesel heater, bulbar, security system, 92,000kms, also Suzuki 2008 4 door w/afame $155,000 Ph 0438951101

MDC Highside Cruiser 2019, 3 ton McHitch, fridge, redarc dc to dc charger, EC

$14,500 Ph 0407147996

Millard caravan pop-top, 12mths reg, always garaged, GC, located in Nhill $4900 Ph 0408128556 after 12pm

REDUCED 2009 Jayco

Stirling Expander , immaculate cond, front club lounge, slide out q/bed, full ensuite, roll out awning and full annex $40,000ono Ph 0428913307

REDUCED 2014 Jayco

Silverline Outback 23-72-1, satellite dish, gas heater, 4 x 130 watt solar panels = 520 watts, Epever Triron 42ION

MPPT 40 AMP controller, 2 x llithium batteries, 227 litre compressor fridge/ freezer, full annexe

$52,000 Ph 0448099981

REDUCED 2018 Dingo

Ultimate Camper , heavy duty top of the line off-road trailer including boat rack, fully enclosed annexe including ensuite, lots of storage, built-in instant gas hot water to sink and shower, dual AGM batteries and built-in inverter and charger, innerspring mattress and ability to make up second double bed, two new off-road tyres, VGC, Y76535 $16,500ono Ph 0407360212

REDUCED New Age 2013, queen bed, TV, large fridge, microwave, gas/electric hot plates, toilet, shower, washing machine, full annex, sway bars, $44,000 Ph 0427778747

REDUCED Toyota Coaster camper , 2 seater, diesel heater, 1hz motor, solar and 12v awning much more $35,000 Ph 0418325662

Slingshot campervan , light weight, easy to tow and setup, annexe, two single beds, EC $13,900 Ph 0429585845

1997 Hercules Tipper

$76,000 plus Gst Ph 0428386295

11 PVC pipes, 39" long x 6" diameter, $50 for the lot Ph 0428504301

2 saddles, 2 bridles, 2 horse bits, 1 drench bit, 1 riding cap Ph 0447590865

4 of 10Ft / 3meter high scaffolding propes, $700 the four Ph 0428504301

5 step platform ladder , galvanised, on wheels with brakes $450 Ph 53522691

Archery equipment , 3 compound bows, 35 pound youth bow, 60 pound adult bow, 16 wheeler antique, 1 45 pound Samic longbow, arrows, tool boxes, apres and fletching jig $500 Ph 0429164375

Brick pavers, H shaped, beige colour, 1600 $800 Ph 0459027575 Stawell

Camping equipment , 2 dome tents, 10 man and 4 man, sleeping chair tent, 3 roll up tables, shower tent, 2 gas stoves, 4 spare bottles, camp kitchen, blow up q/bed $450 Ph 0429164375

Camping Equipment, including as new Yamaha 2KVa inverter generator never used, aqua cube shower, porta potty, Komodo pantry, and clothesline $2500 Ph 0458683879

Folding bike with training stand $350, Snow sled 1050x500 $45 Ph 0418992631

Galvanised trailer , 5x5 $800 Ph 53522691

Gold and opal ring, approx 80yrs old, current valuation $4500 would like $2500 Ph 0458014560

Hot potato mobile van , bought new 2018, never used $980 ono Ph 0432544164

J Berends pasture harrows 8' $400 Ph 0429309491

Kirby Avalir 100th Anniversary, EC, clean and functions perfectly, includes filter bags, brand new home care system, all attachments some brand new $750 Ph 0429679481

Omega gold watch , approx 65yrs old, still keeps perfect time $1500ono Ph 0458014560

Pea straw small square bales, $7 per bale, great garden mulch, pickup or delivery to Horsham Ph 0488303725

Round bale hay ring $350 Ph 0429200566

Ph 0428857312

Strongberg Carlson Console Radio, ex condition Ph 53824316

Tent Dune Eyre, 10x10, near new, easy set up for Easter Ph 0491644368 Horsham

Toledo 4 berth dog float, good condition, reg til Dec 25

$950 Ph 0400192571

Tradies Trailer enclosed, containing shelving storage, power points $680 ono Ph 0432544164

3.7 m boat and cover , QL624, an aussie made trailer P83061, Yamaha 15 HP motor, near new $4000 Ph 53582560

3.7 savage aluminium boat, UM198, 25 HP Mercury forward steer reyco trailer, b15834 electric motor and lawrence fish finder $2600 Ph 0428523919

Pietscraft 3.5m Fishing Boat , 15hp, Johnson tilt trailer, boat cover, all accessories $5000 Ph 0428822730

Quintrex FishAbout MKII Repowered 40HP Yamaha, low hours, new Oceanic Trailer Bimini Hummingbird Finder 40Ib Elec Motor Dec Estate Ph 0491644368 Horsham

3 PL cultivator , 3 row, 2.250m wide $450 Ph 0429821539

Expression of interest, for sale, international 511 28 row trash floats combine, 211 33 tyne scarifier, 18 disc Connor-Shea hyd lift 4 fold, B46 baler working order, Lowan round bale carrier Ph 0407911884 evenings

Header Gleaner R62 , retired, no further use, $15,000+gst Ph 0438701392

REDUCED 2022 Mahindra 6110, 60 HP, front end loader, 4 in 1 bucket, FWA, a/c cab, balance of new warranty, 368 hrs on clock $43,900 Ph 0428349401

CCE cage on wheels 6x4 well made $400, 500 gallon ex fuel tank $100, Coolgardie safe $100, Ute crate, 6x4 tub tight $50, Bailey extension ladder 5.3 extends to 6.3 $500, new Holland Mower GC with parts, 44g drums ideal for grain feeding cattle, best offer Ph 0429857207

Round dining table with 4 velvet chairs $340 Ph 53824788

Single bed , excellent condition, includes mattress if needed and doona covers $100 ono Ph 0417566140

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Belonging One. Today’s date is significant to me, for religious reasons. No it isn’t ”St Damian’s Day”, that’s 26th September, (when chocolate may be left at the manse). It’s not even “International Buy a Priest a Beer Day”, which is 9th

and the Church; and today is my personal celebration of that. Stawell Uniting Church is currently working with two people who are seeking baptism and confirmation. These ancient rituals may have troubled histories, but really they’re just about belonging. To publicly identify yourself and your family as Christian might be a brave thing, but it’s a thing that brings welcome, hope, and home. Today I am reminded that I belong, and where I belong. It feels cozy, even when church buildings are freezing on Sundays in July.

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Teams’ finals prospects on the line

BY SIMON KING

The finals prospects of several teams will be on the line when they take to the field for round 11 of the Wimmera hockey season at Davis Park in Nhill on Saturday.

The biggest match-up will see the two under-16 teams, vying for fourth place on the ladder, go head-to-head in a game that could decide which claims the last place in the finals.

All three games in the women’s competition could have far-reaching consequences for several teams and the rank in which they enter the finals.

Open

In open competition, the top two teams face off against the bottom two, but both matches are still expected to be entertaining.

Yanac Tigers deserve their place at the top of the ladder, and the inconsistent form of Horsham Hurricanes will not fill their supporters with confidence that they can knock off the leaders; however, they still need to put in a good performance if they are to build their confidence as finals approach.

The match-up of Warrack Hoops and Nhill Rangers should be a close game, with the Rangers still chasing their first win for the season. The Hoops will have to take them seriously if they are to firm their grip on second place on the ladder.

Kaniva Cobras have the week off

with the bye, but will be keenly watching, as a Hoops’ loss keeps them in with a chance of claiming second place.

Women

Fourth place on the women’s ladder is still undecided, and with Nhill Thunderbirds and Horsham Jets battling to claim it, every game involving either of these teams over the next few rounds is important.

The Thunderbirds can gain the advantage this week when they take on winless Warracknabeal, while the Jets have their work cut out for them when

they face undefeated Yanac. If the results of these games reflect current ladder positions, the ’Birds will move four points ahead of the Jets, a margin that will be difficult for the Horsham team to claw back in the ensuing four games. The closest women’s match of the round will see second-placed Dimboola Roos play Kaniva. Currently, only four points separate these teams, so a Dimboola victory would see them increase the margin to eight points, which would almost ensure they finish the regular season in

second place. But a Kaniva win would draw these teams equal on points, with only goal difference separating them, which would set up some big games over the last four rounds.

Under-16

The biggest match-up for the weekend will see Dimboola Kangaroos and Kaniva Raiders fighting it out for last place in the finals.

The winner of this game will create a four-point buffer over the other, which will be difficult for the vanquished to claw back in the remaining four rounds.

Both have a similar recent form line, making this a difficult match to predict a winner.

Despite their first loss for the season last weekend, Yanac Warriors should be too strong for the winless Horsham Bombers, and while Warrack Revengers will challenge Nhill Leopards, the home team should be too strong and keep hold of the top place on the ladder.

Round 10 results –

Open: Yanac Tigers 2 (goals, B. Alexander, K. Croot; best, B. Alexander, T. Alexander, K. Croot) d Nhill Rangers 0 (A. Zanker, D. Reichelt, J. Reichelt).

Kaniva Cobras 3 (L. Mills, J. Bedford, N. Dickinson; L. Mills, N. Dickinson, J. Clark, C. White) d Horsham Hurricanes 1 (P. Mackereth; T. Leffler, P. Mackereth, W. Gulline).

Women: Yanac Women 2 (M. Mack-

ley, C. Alexander; E. Alexander, A. Farmers, S. Hedt, C. Alexander) d Nhill Thunderbirds 0 (K. Clark, R. Clark, C. Rowe, B. Cannell). Kaniva Women 8 (L. Stimson 3, S. Williams, J. Braisby, I. Williams, H. Beattie, Z. Smith; L. Stimson, I. Williams, H. Braisby) d Horsham Jets 0 (S. O’Connor, K. Eilola, R. Batchelor, D. Vallance). Dimboola Roos 13 (J. Hausleberger 8, E. Baldock 3, A. Baker, L. Hauselberger; J. Hauselberger, E. Baldock, A. Rintoule, B. McMaster) d Warrack Women 0 (S. Williamson, M. Bentley, E. Williamson).

Under-16: Nhill Leopards 4 (C. Bone 2, B. Clark, D. Bee; B. Clark, T. Bee, O. Bone) d Yanac Warriors 0 (S. Pedie, L. Cramer, A. Pedie). Kaniva Raiders 2 (J. White, F. Dodson; J. Beattie, C. Campness, F. Dodson) d Horsham Bombers 0 (C. Wickson, J. Di Pietro, E. Hill). Dimboola Kangaroos 3 (R. Hadzig, C. Elliott, W. Hadzig; R. Hadzig, R. Williams, C. Elliott) drew with Warrack Revengers 3 (N. Eilola, S. Williamson, C. Bentley; S. Williamson, E. Williamson, L. Heron). Development program: Yanac Lowan Stars 2 (A. Cramer, S. Hedt) v Nhill Bandits 1 (N. Krelle). Horsham Black Hawks 6 (C. Claassen 2, A. Janetzki, M. Rose, L. Rose, E. Batchelor) v Kaniva Rampagers 1 (A. Bedford). Dimboola Kangaroos 6 (C. Wallace 2, L. Elliott 2, I. Ward, L. Hauselberger) v Warrack Avengers 2 (Z. Rethus).

IN CONTROL: Nhill Rangers’ Jason Reichelt runs the ball out of defence.

Picture: SIMON KING

OUT AND ABOUT: The Weekly Advertiser photographer PAUL CARRACHER was out and about on Saturday capturing some of the action between Wimmera League teams Minyip-Murtoa and Southern Mallee Thunder, and Horsham District league teams Pimpinio and Laharum. Earlier in the week, Carracher visited an Auskick clinic at Horsham City Oval. Pictured are, clockwise from above: Southern Mallee Thunder’s Emma Mill; Laharum’s Angus Atchinson tackles Matt Rosier, Pimpinio; Annie Pryor at the AusKick clinic; Minyip-Murtoa’s Jessica Newell and Sydney Thorogood, Southern Mallee Thunder; youngster Patrick Dart; Pimpinio’s Nick Groves tackles Connor Walsh, Laharum; Arlo McMaster at the Auskick clinic; and centre, Tim McKenzie, Minyip-Murtoa, and Southern Mallee Thunder’s Brayden Ison.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Penshurst inflicts first Eagles’ defeat

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

T

he Ararat Eagles are undefeated no more.

Reigning Mininera and District Football League senior football premier Penshurst dealt the ladder-leaders their first loss of the season on Saturday in a convincing 12.9 (81) to 5.9 (39) result at Penshurst.

It was a stark contrast to the round two meeting between the teams in which Ararat triumphed by 10 goals.

Entering round 12 with a perfect 11-0 record, the Eagles were looking to cement their status as premiership favourites, but struggled to impose themselves on the contest.

While Eagles Ben Robertson, Jake Peters and Bhun Joiner were solid as usual, the Penshurst midfield was able to give spearhead Josh Rentsch plenty of opportunities.

Rentsch kicked six goals in a matchwinning performance for the visitors, with Andrew Cameron and Jack Wil-

son the only multiple goal-kickers for Ararat with two apiece.

With four weeks left in the homeand-away season Ararat remains a lock for a finals berth, but its bid for a minor premiership could be under threat.

A testing game at home against Glenthompson-Dunkeld looms this Saturday, before a run of three straight games against teams outside the top five to close the season.

One of those teams, however, could soon be in the top five.

Tatyoon continued its late-season climb through the ranks on Saturday, defeating Woorndoo-Mortlake 11.6 (72) to 6.4 (40).

It was the fourth win in a row for the Hawks, who were led by Angus Johnston and Brad Horsham, with Josh Lee kicking four goals and coach Andy Challis adding two.

Tatyoon is now just four premiership points adrift of fifth-placed Wick-

liffe-Lake Bolac and has a superior percentage after the Magpies lost to Lismore-Derrinallum 18.9 (117) to 5.5 (35) at the weekend.

Great Western also tasted victory for the first time since round three on Saturday, downing Caramut 12.14 (86) to 10.6 (66) after a slow start at Caramut Recreation Reserve.

Best in the Lions’ win were Josh Arkell, Lochie Morrissey and Tom Randone, with Sam Cocks kicking a bag of five goals.

But the team was without recruit Silver Yousif, who was suspended by AFL Victoria this week for his part in a salary cap infraction at Goulburn Valley league club Euroa last season.

Yousif was handed a four-match ban over the incident, in which Great Western had no involvement.

Moyston-Willaura’s luckless run continued, with the Pumas going down to SMW Rovers 22.19 (151) to 9.6 (60).

HISTORIC: Mikaela Turvey, left, and Bec Hallam made history in the Horsham District Football Netball League this month when they became the first all-female panel from the Wimmera Mallee Umpires Association, WMUA, to umpire a senior football match in the Wimmera. The pair officiated a match between Kalkee and Laharum at Kalkee on July 12. WMUA president Amy Stasinowsky said the organisation prided itself on giving women and girls opportunities in umpiring and encouraged more female umpires to consider joining. People can find more information on becoming an umpire at play.afl/ umpire.

Captain Liam Kaine kicked four goals on an otherwise difficult day for the team.

The final match of the round saw Glenthompson-Dunkeld 17.6 (108) defeat Hawkesdale-Macarthur 15.4 (94).

This weekend will feature Ararat Eagles hosting the Rams, with Tatyoon to visit Hawkesdale-Macarthur, Moyston-Willaura at home to Caramut, Great Western also hosting Lismore-Derrinallum, SMW Rovers travelling to Woorndoo and Penshurst visiting Lake Bolac.

Mammoth milestone

While Tatyoon’s senior footballers had plenty to celebrate, there was just as much buzz around the club’s reserves side, as backman Tim Barr notched his 500th senior appearance for the club.

Starting in the reserves in the mid1990s, Barr eventually established himself in the Hawks’ senior side dur-

ing an incredible run of club success. Across both grades, Barr has appeared in 14 grand finals for the Hawks, winning eight of them.

His mammoth milestone was something he said he never envisioned.

“When I first started I never thought I’d get as many as I did. It was a pretty hard side to break into early on, so I’ve been pretty lucky,” he said.

“Generally I’ve always been a backman. I’m playing a bit of half-back at the moment, but in the senior career I’ve probably played a lot of full-back.

“I’ve got long arms and legs and people used to compare me to a Simon Prestigiacomo.”

The 45-year-old’s milestone match was made more special by the appearance of his son Hamish, who received a one-match clearance from the Wimmera league’s Ararat Rats under-17 side to play alongside his father.

“One thing I always dreamt of was playing a game with him,” Barr said.

Laharum, Burras grand final

With one round of the inaugural Wimmera Football Netball League senior women’s football season remaining, the grand final is set, with Laharum to play Minyip-Murtoa at Murtoa on Sunday, August 3.

The match will be a replay of Sunday’s penultimate round, which saw Laharum beat the Burras 5.6 (36) to 1.3 (9) to improve to 5-0 for the season with a percentage of 500.

But while Laharum has been the season’s standout team, Sunday’s game was its most testing encounter yet.

The Demons led by only four points at the halftime break, as a goal to Ashlee Ison and handy turns from Scarlett Funcke, Stacey Arnold, Tegan Kerrins, Rory Starick and Adele Reardon kept the Burras in the contest.

Only in the second half did the Demons show why they have been regarded favourites to win the first-ever senior women’s premiership, kicking 4.1 to two behinds in the third and fourth quarters.

Leading the charge was onballer Violet McGennisken, who has been one of the competition’s standout players when commitments with the Talent League’s Greater Western Victoria Rebels allow her to appear for Laharum.

McGennisken kicked two goals, with fellow midfielders Ruby Manson and Hailey Puls also prominent, wings Cathering O’Dea and Poppy Peters getting involved in the action and Rylee Hateley adding two goals of her own.

Despite the loss, Minyip-Murtoa has locked in a grand final spot alongside Laharum, with a twowin lead over Horsham on the ladder and only one round to play.

The Burras will face Horsham at Warracknabeal’s Anzac Park this Sunday to conclude the home-and-away season.

Juniors

Laharum virtually assured itself of a grand final berth in the under-14.5 girls competition on Sunday as well, downing a combined side of Minyip-Murtoa and Warrack Eagles juniors 15.9 (99) to 6.10 (46).

The Demons put their stamp on the game early, kicking 4.7 to one behind in the first term to establish a lead that was never seriously threatened. Georgia Foster, with four goals, was a standout for Laharum, with Lilly Peucker and Imogen Young kicking three apiece and Chloe Butsch adding two.

The Warrack Burras’ best were the likes of Eedie Rowe, Boh Adams, Sadie Arnold and RubieeJane Crisp.

The final round on Sunday will see the Warrack Burras side host ladder-leader Horsham, which is guaranteed to play in the grand final as the minor premier.

While a win would see the home side draw even with Laharum on premiership points, a percentage gap of nearly 60 points means the Warrack Burras are unlikely to overtake Laharum for second place.

horshAm district leAgue

Bombers and Roos secure

Ascrap for finals places is officially on following a round of intriguing results in the Horsham District Football Netball League.

Only ladder-leader Noradjuha-Quantong and reigning premier HarrowBalmoral’s finals bids seem secure, with Pimpinio, Laharum, KanivaLeeor United and Swifts – third through sixth respectively – all fighting to claim the final three spots.

Pimpinio went a long way to securing itself a finals berth, as well as a second chance with a top-three finish, by defeating Laharum 13.11 (89) to 8.7 (55) on Saturday.

Most of the recent clashes between the sides – including an elimination final last year – have come down to the wire, but Pimpinio bucked that trend by racing to a 27-0 lead at quarter time.

The Demons, with the wind at the back in the second quarter, fought back to within a kick, but Pimpinio extended the margin again to nearly 40 points in the third term, and the visitors were unable to muster another comeback in the last.

Amid tricky conditions it was experienced campaigners who stood up for both teams, with Matt Rosier, Adam Westley and Daniel Baker leading the way for the Tigers, while Phil Butsch kicked four goals for the Demons and Todd Heynen and Daniel Easson were solid.

The win was important for Pimpinio, which has the worst percentage of the top six sides but now sits two wins clear of Laharum in third place.

Meanwhile, Kaniva-Leeor United vaulted into the top five thanks to its 13.8 (86) to 8.7 (55) win over Edenhope-Apsley at Edenhope.

The Cougars trailed at the long break but subdued the Saints in the second half, with Billy King running loose on a wing and Blake Dodson controlling play at half-back, while Jacob Eats extended his lead atop the goal-kicking table with four.

While the Cougars ended the round in the top five, the team they surpassed, Swifts, had a bye at the weekend, setting up a thrilling race between two teams with nearly identical percentages over the season’s final

By Colin MacGillivray

month. The results were the perfect set-up for this weekend’s meeting between the Baggies and Laharum at Cameron Oval, with a loss likely to put a large dent in the finals aspirations of either side.

Other results in round 14 saw Noradjuha-Quantong and Harrow-Balmoral easily account for Natimuk United and Kalkee respectively.

The Bombers’ 12.13 (85) to 6.3 (39) win over their traditional rivals at

Quantong Recreation Reserve was set up by Jack Vague and Wade Francis, as Jye Walter proved a wild card up forward with five goals.

Recruit Oscar Miller and youngster Archie Sudholz, with two goals, were among the Rams’ best contributors. It was a similar story at Balmoral, where the Roos had too much firepower for the Kees in a 16.11 (107) to 6.7 (43) win led by big games from Ethan Appleton, six goals, and Con-

nor Deutscher, five. Matt Magee and Karl Campbell were two of the best for Kalkee.

In addition to Saturday’s showdown between Laharum and Swifts, Natimuk United will host Rupanyup, Noradjuha-Quantong will travel to Edenhope to play the Saints, Taylors Lake is at home to Kaniva-Leeor United and Kalkee hosts Pimpinio.

Natimuk United continues to gather momentum

Natimuk United’s march towards what would be a remarkable Horsham District league A Grade netball finals berth continued to gather momentum at the weekend, with the Rams beating Noradjuha-Quantong by two goals.

The Rams started the season slowly, winning just one of their first six games.

But a dramatic reversal in form has seen them capture six of their past seven contests after downing the Bombers 46-44 at Quantong.

With captain Jayne Tucker playing her 300th club game, the Bombers started brightly, goaling on five of

their first six possessions to take an early lead.

The height of goalies Shannon Couch and Taya Quick looked menacing, but at the other end of the court

Natimuk United’s Emma Uebergang was a match for the pair.

Uebergang netted a game-high 38 goals for the afternoon and helped the visitors to a 13-12 lead by quarter time.

The Bombers, however, were undeterred, winning the second quarter by four goals as midcourter Holly Nuske and co-coach Taylor Shelley worked to limit the Rams’ scoring opportu-

nities. With only a goal separating the sides at three-quarter time it was anyone’s game.

The Bombers looked to have done enough to get themselves across the line when Couch sent them five goals up with less than 10 minutes remaining, but the Rams refused to yield.

The visitors’ pressure led to several key turnovers, which Natimuk’s goalies were able to capitalise on.

A held-ball violation called on Tucker, who had no open team-mates to pass to, proved a crucial turnover with less than four minutes remaining and the Bombers up by two.

Uebergang goaled on the resultant possession, and another score from the ensuing centre pass saw the visitors tie the scores.

A deflection from Emily Hateley then set up the match-winning goal, with the Rams converting again to make sure of the result.

Natimuk United is now level with the fifth-placed Bombers on 28 premiership points, although the Rams’ lacklustre percentage kept them from overtaking their rivals.

The clash was the only tight contest in a series of otherwise one-sided results, with Edenhope-Apsley de-

feating Kaniva-Leeor United 65-35, Laharum downing Pimpinio 57-39 and Kalkee beating Harrow-Balmoral 59-20.

Natimuk United’s finals bid will receive its sternest test yet this weekend as the Rams prepare to face ladderleader Rupanyup, which will be fresh from a bye.

Other games will see Kalkee host Pimpinio, Swifts take on Laharum at Cameron Oval, Edenhope-Apsley hosting Noradjuha-Quantong in a topfive clash and Kaniva-Leeor United travelling to play Taylors Lake.

IN CONTROL: Pimpinio’s Matt Healy takes control against Laharum. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

KNOCK: Laharum’s Daniel Easson and Jordan Barnett, Pimpinio, battle for the ball.

CAUGHT: Adam Westley, Pimpinio, takes down Laharum’s Phil Butsch.

By Lauren Henry

Nhill sets standard in run to finals

The in-form Nhill sent a statement to the rest of the Wimmera league that it was building for finals with an eight-point victory over Dimboola on Saturday.

It was an 82-point turnaround since the last time the two teams met in round four, and has cemented the Tigers in second spot on the senior football ladder.

Nhill co-coach Jake McQueen said he had expected a close match with the Roos, who earlier in the season towelled up the Tigers by 74 points.

“It was windy but we did play the conditions well – other than scoring a heap of points,” he said.

“But credit to them, their defence held up really well and their midfields put a lot of pressure on ours when trying to enter into the 50, so I’ll give a bit of credit to them.”

Daniel Batson and Liam Albrecht were once again named in the best – both enjoying stellar seasons for the Tigers.

“When we need a bit of stability in the middle, Batto (Daniel Batson) goes in there and he is a wise head and he plays very well in that role,” McQueen said.

“And Alby (Albrecht) at centrehalf-back just takes marks and keeps up in the game. Along with Darcy Honeyman – he was our general down back – they were both good down back.”

Wallace Wheaton was also named in the best.

“ I gave him a role to play on Jonathan Ross on the weekend. He did quite well.  I thought he nullified him pretty well,” McQueen said.

While Nhill has won the past three games and looks to have cemented second place on the ladder, McQueen said his side still had some improvements to make ahead of finals.

“We’re still not quite happy because we haven’t really played a four-quarter game yet, which is quite surprising considering how well we’re doing. If we can string a fourquarter game together hopefully we can knock off Ararat, because that’s one that we need to,” he said.

The Tigers will be tested over in their final five matches of the season – starting with Stawell this Saturday, followed by Warrack Eagles, Southern Mallee Thunder, Minyip-Murtoa and then the undefeated Ararat.

“It’s a good run home – I’d probably prefer that to be honest, coming into finals. It’s good to play the better sides so it’ll be a good test to see where we’re at,” McQueen said.

In the closest match of round 13, Minyip-Murtoa jumped back on the winner’s list with a two-point victory over Southern Mallee Thunder.

Playing at Murtoa, the home side trailed by eight points at half-time but a five-goal third term put them

in the lead. Separated by just less than a goal at the last break, it was anybody’s game and the Thunder’s never-say-die attitude was at the fore.

The Burras did themselves no favours by kicking 2.5, but were able to hang on for an important win in the context of their finals’ chances.

Kade Petering was at his usual best, Liam Kidd bobbed up with four goals and Dusty Cross was dominant for Minyip-Murtoa.

The Burras now sit fourth, and after a bye this weekend, come up against

a Dimboola side which will be as equally desperate for a win.

For the Thunder, it will have to buckle up for a big game against Ararat this Saturday.

The Rats made light work of Warrack, winning convincingly by 89 points, but not displaying its usual scoreboard dominance.

Jack Ganley kicked five goals, but it was James Jennings, Patrick Toner and Riley Taylor who impressed most for the Rats.

In the other match, Stawell was too

CAUGHT:

good for Horsham Saints, winning by 38 points.

Dominating the third quarter, the Warriors outscored the home side eight goals to one, to run out easy winners.

Owen Summers, Zachary Marrow and Sam Williams led by example, as Cody Driscoll and Paul Summers kicked six goals each.

Stawell will host Nhill this Saturday, while the Saints travel to play Warrack and Dimboola take on Horsham Demons.

Rats maintain consistency in win

Ararat recorded its third consecutive win with a 21-goal victory over Warrack Eagles in Wimmera league A Grade action on Saturday.

A consistent four-quarter performance with minimal changes to its line-up saw Laney McLoughlan and Maggie Astbury share honours in the goal circle, shooting 25 and 23 apiece.

The Biddle sisters, Paige and Faith, again held up in defence, proving too strong for the Eagles’ attack, while centre Monique Scott was formidable.

Stawell. In the top versus bottom clash, the Saints swung the changes to give junior players some court time.

Three 17 and under players and two 15 and under players took the court for the Saints’ A Grade team, who didn’t have to worry about the scoreboard as they built a dominant lead to win 100-36.

The experienced Abby Hallam and Shannon Cross were named best for the Saints.

ern Mallee Thunder scored a 68-22 win over Minyip-Murtoa, as defenders Abby White and Caitlin Douglass showed their class.

With five rounds remaining in the Wimmera league this season, the top five of the A Grade is all but decided – as Horsham Saints sit atop on 48 points; Horsham on 36; Dimboola and Ararat on 32, while Southern Mallee Thunder is on 28, ahead of the sixthplaced Warrack Eagles on 14.

After a relatively even first quarter, the Rats increased their lead to seven at the main break before skipping out to be 13 goals ahead at three-quarter time.

Horsham Saints showed their dominance, reaching triple figures against

Dimboola gave a strong performance to beat Nhill 59-29, as Paige Glover and Nicole Polycarpou starred.

For the Tigers, wing-defence ShaeLea Fischer and Charlotte Foulds, who scored nine goals, were named best.

In the other round 13 match, South-

This weekend, the Thunder will be tested by Ararat, Dimboola faces a tough test against Horsham Demons, while Stawell host Nhill, and Warrack Eagles will play the Saints. The Burras have the bye.

ON GUARD: Southern Mallee Thunder’s Taya Horman guards Johanna Griffiths, Minyip-Murtoa. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Southern Mallee Thunder’s Heath Smith tackles Liam Kidd, MinyipMurtoa, during Saturday’s clash.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

sport

Bibby wins Asian gold

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Wimmerabasketballer

Chloe Bibby and her Australian teammates are celebrating a gold medal at the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup in China after beating Japan in a hardfought final on Sunday night.

The Australian Opals, after leading by 11 points at half time, survived a fierce fightback from Japan, which tied the scores at 73-apiece with little over six minutes remaining in the contest.

Australia held its nerve, with Alex Wilson scoring 13 points in the final quarter to help the team to an 88-79 victory.

Bibby played sparingly in the gold medal game, logging one rebound in six minutes of court time, with the second-highest plus-minus rating – a measure of how a team performed relative to its opposition during the minutes a player was on the court – of plus-nine.

It was the second time Australian coach Paul Goriss limited Bibby’s minutes against Japan during the tournament, ostensibly for matchup reasons, with Bibby also going

scoreless in under 10 minutes of action against Japan in Australia’s final pool match.

The Warracknabeal-born forward featured more heavily in Australia’s 86-73 semi-final win over South Korea, playing 14 minutes off the bench and scoring 12 points to go along with three rebounds, two assists and a steal.

Across the tournament Bibby was one of Australia’s key reserves, averaging eight points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.8 assists per contest, shooting 54 per cent from the field, 33 per cent from three-point range and 89 per cent from the free-throw line.

The gold medal continues a stellar year for the 27-year-old, who made her debut for the Golden State Valkyries of the United States’ WNBA – the top women’s basketball league in the world – in June. Bibby was waived by Golden State prior to the start of the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, but her strong play both for the Valkyries and Opals could see her earn more opportunities in the WNBA or a top European basketball league.

Brought to you by The Morning Crew Weekdays from 6am to 9am

Trotting community remembers life member

The close-knit trotting community has been left saddened by the passing of long-serving Ararat Harness Racing Cub committeeman and life member Bob Collins on July 12, aged 82.

Mr Collins was highly respected at the club and would always be on hand to meet and greet trainers, drivers and visitors when Ararat raced.

In fact, he was devoted to the Ararat HRC.

A panel-beater by trade, Mr Col-

lins served in many positions over the years, including president and track manager.

He was honored in 2011 by Harness Racing Victoria as the industry’s Volunteer of the Year – an extremely proud moment for him.

Mr Collins loved nothing more than to assist daughter Tracey with her horses and had an ownership-share in many. Tracey is a trainer in her own right and has enjoyed success in the sport

with horses such as Son Of Satan and Slick Vance.

She was well-known in her position as track attendant, particularly at harness headquarters Melton and various country clubs.

Mr Collins is survived by wife Chris and daughters Tracey, Fiona and Joanne. Harness Racing Victoria extends its sincere sympathy to Mr Collins’s extended family and friends. – Len Baker, HRV

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WINNING STYLE: Hamilton reinswoman Jackie Barker sits quietly as six-year-old colt Aldebaran Anton is airborne at the finish line and takes out the $6000 Stawell Times News Maiden Pace at Laidlaw Park on Monday afternoon. The square-gaiter is trained by ‘Team Barker’ under the name of grandfather and harness legend ‘Gentleman Jim’ for the Glynn family of Mt Gambier. Picture: CLAIRE WESTON PHOTOGRAPHY

Excitement building for new season

BY DAVID BERRY

The excitement is building for a massive season ahead for Volleyball Horsham, with two major tournaments, potential record numbers domestically and new opportunities for our representative teams.

Vice-president Matt McLoughlin said with a week remaining before entries close for the upcoming winter season, team registrations were at an all-time high with 37 teams already entered across all grades.

“This is positive for us as usually teams are a little bit slow between seasons to register, so to have so many at this early stage is a clear indication that we’re on track to have a bumper season,” he said.

“Traditionally our winter season sees an increase in numbers, so we are well-prepared that if this trend continues, we’ll be seeing record numbers.”

The major focus for the association is hosting the junior country championships over the AFL grand final weekend.

The tournament will cater for under 19, 17 and 15 boys and girls’ teams and is expected to attract more than 500 visitors to Horsham.

Volleyball Horsham’s Kara Johnson said the association had appointed coaches for its six teams, with a mix of youth and experience taking charge.

“Oscar Jackman and Molly Carter will coach the under 19 boys and girls, Justin Brilliant and McLoughlin the under 17 boys and girls, while Tim Carter and Ella Van Duren will be in charge of the under 15 teams,” she said.

Johnson said early indications were there would be an increase in support for the event, with interest from associations that did not participate last year.

“We’ve heard from the likes of Goulburn Valley, Bendigo, Surf Coast and Macedon Ranges, all keen to get on board for this year’s tournament,” she said.

“These associations will complement the likes of Warrnambool, Sunraysia, Latrobe Valley, Geelong and South Gippsland who participated last year.

“Volleyball Horsham is going all out to ensure the visiting teams and Volleyball Victoria representatives have a positive experience at this year’s tournament.

“There is talk the tournament may be going to Bendigo next year, so we are doing our best to make sure Volleyball Victoria has no reason to take it there, just because Bendigo has a great stadium or Bendigo council is throwing funding at the event.”

Association representative teams’ co-ordinator Tyler Snowden said there would also be other opportunities for

GEARING UP: Sophie Quick celebrates after captaining her team to a gold medal in last year’s junior country championships. Volleyball Horsham is gearing up for the event with an increase in participation expected.

juniors with the Volleyball Victoria Junior Open in November split a fortnight apart this year, which would take the pressure off association volunteers supporting the teams.

“The years seven to nine tournament will be during the week of November 11-13, while the years 10 to 12 will

be the week of November 25-27,” he said.

“We have set up our winter season to finish before these two events, so as not to impact on teams that might potentially make finals.”

Snowden said the senior men’s and women’s teams were looking to take

“Traditionally our winter season sees an increase in numbers, so we are well prepared that if this trend continues, we’ll be seeing record numbers”

– Matt McLoughlin

up an invitation from Central Adelaide Volleyball Association to participate in its inaugural tournament in the first weekend of October.

“They attended our tournament last year and had a ball, so they reached out to us and invited us to their tournament, which will make a nice change for our players to play against different opposition,” he said.

“Our teams are looking forward to making the trip to Adelaide.” Snowden said the association was gearing up for 50th anniversary celebrations in 2026, with plans to be unveiled at the season’s end presentation night.

“We’ve been planning this all year, and we’re excited for what lies ahead for all members in 2026,” he said. With so much to look forward to, any teams or individuals interested in participating in the upcoming winter season are encouraged to register in the next week, by visiting the association’s website or social media platforms for registration details.

GOODS & SERVICES AUCTION

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LOT 80 – Teys 6kg Black Angus Steak

Donated by Vic Hotel Horsham LOT 85 – Family Photo Shoot – Donated by Sarah Goode Photography

91 – BK Carts Golf cart pack – Donated by BK Carts

LOT 96 – Ninja Slushie Machine – Donated by Harvey Norman Horsham

LOT 100 – Umbrella package for 10 at Horsham Cup or Santa Day Races – Donated by Horsham District Racing Club

LOT 103 – Ninja Woodfire Outdoor oven – Donated by Harvey Norman Horsham

LOT 124 – Shannon Bros Grain Storage There are

LOT 105 – ARB Magnum hand winch with 20m cable – Donated by Horsham Off Road

LOT 106 – 250mt of grain brokerage – Donated by Cutter Commodities

LOT 109 – 6m3 Truck of 25mpa Concrete (not incl. delivery) – Donated by Horsham Concrete

LOT 111 – Jarrod Berry signed football boots

LOT 112 – Queen Plazzo Plush mattress and Active Plazzo Sleep Base – Donated by Forty Winks Horsham

LOT 113 – Australian Open Men’s Semi Final tickets plus one night’s accommodation

LOT 115 – Time-Out Fishing Charter in Portland all inclusive