The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, June 11, 2025 by The Weekly Advertiser

Rain welcome relief

BY LAUREN HENRY

Agreat sense of relief was felt across the Wimmera and Grampians at the weekend as decent rain put moisture in dry soil.

While farmers and leaders have welcomed the rain, they have also warned the region was still in need of drought assistance.

The rain comes after the State Government’s new Drought Response Taskforce met for the first time, with Premier Jacinta Allan travelling to Camperdown to chair the meeting.

Much of Victoria experienced a rainsodden weekend, with totals in the Wimmera ranging from 8.8 millime-

tres at Hopetoun to 65.2mm at Mt William in the Grampians National Park.

Bureau of Meteorology data showed 20.4mm for Horsham across the weekend, 17.6mm at Longerenong, 24.6mm at Nhill, and 20.4mm at Warracknabeal.

But it was in the southern parts of the Wimmera and Grampians region where the much-needed rain was recorded in higher amounts.

Edenhope received 36.2mm, Kannagulk 40.4mm, 29mm at Stawell, and 35.4mm at Ararat.

However, the below-average rain of the past year, or for some parts of the region across the past two years,

means a lot more rain is needed to inject soil moisture and fill dams.

Horsham mixed farmer Sam Eagle said he had between 23mm and 40mm across his farm, but it was not a ‘game-changer’.

“We’re back in the game, but we’ve still got a long way to go,” he said.

“It’s a relief to get it because we should be able to tell what crop has come up and what’s not going to come up.”

Mr Eagle said it would take weeks before he started to see any difference in his paddocks.

“Because the sheep are out on the pastures and grazing them, it’s going to take them a long time to come to

anything really ... so it’s probably still a fair way to go with the pastures,” he said.

Pigeon Ponds lamb producer Tim Leeming said his paddocks had turned green ‘almost the next day’.

“Most of the district and west of here towards Naracoorte, a lot of us got a germination at Easter and Anzac weekend – well over a month ago – then we just sort of watched that green pick go a light green then turn yellow and purple, and look a bit horrible, but this rain has rejuvenated that,” he said.

Mr Leeming estimated he received about 35mm-40mm in his district.

“There’s a heap of relief, for sure. It

wasn’t ridiculously heavy or anything like that, so it’s just a good soaking rain,” he said.

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy said it was exciting and uplifting for the region to receive rain. but the drought had not broken.

“We still have a long way to go before we get feed on the ground for our livestock, but also before we can actually sell some product and get money rolling into our businesses and our rural and regional economies that depend on agricultural to drive the economy,” she said.

• Drought taskforce, page 3.

TOUR: Horsham mixed farmer Sam Eagle, Horsham Rural City councillor Brian Klowss, Regional Cities Victoria chair Shane Sali, and Horsham Mayor Ian Ross and Cr Bec Sluggett during a tour of drought-affected farms last week. Mr Sali was on a fact-finding mission to inform his input into the State Government’s new drought taskforce. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Tour shows unfolding crisis

BY LAUREN HENRY

Farmers across the Horsham municipality met with Regional Cities Victoria chairman Shane Sali last week to discuss drought conditions, policies and support.

Mr Sali was appointed to the State Government’s Drought Response Taskforce, which met in Camperdown on Friday, following Mr Sali’s visit to Horsham.

The taskforce, chaired by Premier Jacinta Allan, will provide advice on further help for farmers, as well as broader support for impacted businesses and communities.

The government has indicated a further support package will be delivered on the recommendations of the taskforce.

Horsham Mayor Ian Ross and Crs Brian Klowss and Rebecca Sluggett accompanied Mr Sali on a tour of four farms across the municipality to see first-hand the effects of the drought.

There was also a meeting with farmers, Horsham councillors and Mr Sali on Wednesday night, allowing the

Shepparton mayor to hear first-hand about drought-related challenges and the crisis unfolding across regional Victoria.

“I then spent the past two days in Horsham, one of the hardest hit regions battling relentless drought conditions,”

Mr Sali said.

Mr Sali said the visits to the farms had given him a raw insight into the effects of the drought, hearing ‘vulnerable stories from the ground’.

“These were all valuable conversations, providing me with great insight into the current challenges, the support required from the State Government, and the opportunities that exist in the agriculture sector,” he said.

“The backbone of Victoria is a strong agriculture sector. However, our state’s agricultural sector is facing serious drought conditions.”

Horsham mixed farmer Sam Eagle was one of several farmers to provide information about drought conditions in the Wimmera and feedback to the government’s drought package.

“It’s about the future of the industry, but it’s not just the young farmers, the

old too, but it’s making an industry that’s viable and people can see a future in it – that’s where funding really needs to be in the long-term and not be the limited focus like they’ve got now with everything in politics – it’s very much from day to day,” he said.

Mr Eagle said the government needed to invest in infrastructure projects such as pipelines and rail freight upgrades.

“Get the rail working – a huge cost in farming is freight,” he said.

“They talk about the productivity as a whole, not just in farming, but we need to increase our productivity, in line with wages, and getting that train network back up and running that’s a big one – we can’t do it ourselves.

“We can’t do it ourselves but the government sure can.

“We need the long term vision from the governments. We don’t just need knee-jerk reactions to a drought

“We need, they need to have drought policies, they need to have these things in place so it’s not a big drawn out process every time this happens.”

Peter Rogers, of Mount Yulong sheep stud at Telangatuk East, said prior to

the weekend’s rain, there had been 60mm of rain at their farm this year.

“I’ve never experienced two years like this – so tough – it’s really abnormal,” he said.

“What really hurt us is stock prices 18 months ago – when they crashed and we were selling ewes for $20. We held and upped our numbers, then went into a drought, and had to feed them.”

Mr Rogers’ son Daniel said they had accessed part of the government’s drought assistance grant made available to south-west farmers last year.

“We got part of that grant and we put in about $3000 of pipeline and troughs, which is good but it actually made it harder because we had to spend money, which you can’t afford to do when you are buying in feed,” he said,

“That infrastructure is great and I’m glad we’ve done it, but it’s not the best way of the government helping.”

He said he would rather grants where farmers could choose where to spend it – and in their case it would go towards their mounting feed costs, which had exceeded more than $500,000 in the past two years.

Police seek feedback

Police are encouraging residents to fill out the Victoria Police Community Sentiment Survey, open until June 30.

The fourth annual survey supports the police’s commitment to neighbourhood policing, and asks people to tell police about their key safety concerns, how they would like to interact with police and where the police could focus their efforts to prevent and deter crime.

People of all backgrounds who lived, worked and socialised in Victoria can fill out the survey.

Horsham Acting Inspector Eddie Malpas said the survey was quick to fill out and was anonymous.

“Survey responses help us identify the issues our communities care most about, and help us develop local ways to tackle them,” he said.

“This includes working with partners on safety plans to understand and address the key drivers of local crime and safety concerns.”

The Weekly Advertiser and radio stations 3WM and MIXX FM’s ‘We Love’ series will start this Friday, aiming to boost spending at local businesses in various towns across the region.

The We Love campaign starts with a shopping day at Horsham on Friday, and will visit Warracknabeal, Stawell, Nhill and Ararat in coming months.

The annual campaign is designed to highlight opportunities available to shoppers and promote a ‘shop local’ drive, with plenty of bargains at discounted products and services available during the day.

People who make purchases at participating businesses on the designated shopping day will need to ask for a We Love card to be eligible for one of two $250 vouchers, to be spent at participating businesses.

Inside today’s edition is 12 pages of shopping deals from participating Horsham businesses.

“We’re bringing the buzz to Roberts Avenue this Friday,” ACE Radio Horsham’s promotions manager Kayla Wilson said.

“The Street Team van will be set up from 9am to 4pm – music pumping, mics on, and good vibes rolling. If you’re out shopping, swing by the van with your We Love card and proof of purchase to get yourself in the draw. It’s that easy to score yourself a $250 shopping voucher.”

CAREFUL: A Victoria Police Bomb Response Unit member approaches the suspicious package on Plant Avenue, Horsham, on Monday. Picture: PAUL

Bomb squad defuses explosive device

Horsham Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating an incident where a suspicious package was located on Plant Avenue, Horsham on Monday.

Victoria Police Bomb Response Unit travelled from Melbourne to defuse an explosive device – a small, white tube that potentially contained enough explosive material to injure

if a person touched the device. Police were alerted to the device at 10.20am on Monday and cordoned off the pedestrian access over and nearby the Wimmera Bridge on Stawell Road.

Traffic across the bridge was allowed to continue due to police believing the device would not impact traffic.

Bomb Response Unit officers de-

fused the device at 4.45pm. Police are appealing for public assistance to help identify the person or people involved in the incident.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppers.com.au.

Mr Malpas said the survey asked about perceptions of safety including top safety concerns.

“It covers safety in public places, drugs and alcohol, family violence, sexual harassment or sexual offending, hate-motivated crime, road safety, cybercrime, serious and organised crime, and safety of property,” he said.

“Safety in a range of settings during the day and night – shopping centres, public car parks, public transport, public parks and spaces, religious venues, at home, streets and footpaths.”

The survey also asks for ideas to improve safety; comfort in approaching police; contact with police in the past 12 months – asking for a rating from one to five; engagement preferences with police outside of an emergency; and optional demographic questions.

Mr Malpas encouraged people across community, government and businesses to share the survey with their networks.

Police will use the information to feed into Neighbourhood Policing Framework, and will share a summary of key findings on the Engage Victoria website, with local summaries to be shared on the police Eyewatch Facebook pages in coming months.

The survey is available at engage. vic.gov.au/project/vicpol-2025/ survey/5745.

CARRACHER

HRCC NEWS

Natimuk named finalist in the 2025 VTIC Top Tourism Town Awards

Natimuk, VIC – The tiny town with a big heart has been named a finalist in the 2025 Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards, presented by the Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC).

Famous as the gateway to the world-renowned climbing destination Mt Arapiles, Natimuk has become a must-visit hub for adventurers, artists, and nature lovers alike. This recognition places Natimuk among the state’s best, celebrating its unique blend of outdoor adventure, creative spirit, and warm community welcome.

Whether its international climbers scaling the iconic cliffs, birdwatchers and bushwalkers exploring the Wimmera plains, or visitors soaking up the town’s rich history and vibrant arts scene—Natimuk consistently punches above its weight in delivering unforgettable experiences.

Mayor of Horsham Rural City Council, Cr Ian Ross, said the announcement was a proud moment for the town.

“Being named a finalist is a huge honour for Natimuk. It reflects the passion of the community, the beauty of our natural surroundings, and the unique spirit of this town. Whether you’re here to climb, create, or simply connect with the landscape, there’s something magical about Natimuk,” he said.

Ward Councillor, Cr Brian Klowss, also encouraged locals and supporters to get behind the nomination.

“Every vote counts, and this is our chance to show the rest of Victoria just how special Natimuk is. I encourage everyone who loves this town—whether you're a local or a visitor—to cast your vote and help Natimuk shine,” he said.

The VTIC awards highlight towns that deliver outstanding tourism experiences, foster community pride, and offer genuine visitor appeal. Natimuk is competing in the Top Tiny Tourism Town category, for towns with a population under 1,500.

Public voting is a key component of the judging process and plays a vital role in determining the overall winner. Locals and supporters are encouraged to cast their vote and help Natimuk take the top spot.

You can vote with the QR code or visit the VTIC website.

Voting closes Friday 27 June.

NOTICE OF UNSCHEDULED COUNCIL MEETING

Members of the public are advised of an unscheduled council meeting of the Horsham Rural City Council to be held on Monday 16 June 2025 at 5.30pm in the Council Chambers, Municipal Offices, Roberts Avenue, Horsham.

The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the following item:

• CONFIDENTIAL: City Oval Pavilion Funding Agreement

As the matter has been designated confidential, the meeting will be closed to the public.

Think before you burn: Protect your health and the environment

As fire restrictions ease, residents are asked to be considerate of their neighbours and be mindful of what they burn off.

Common farm waste such as old tyres, treated timber, and used chemical drums must not be included in your burn-off.

Instead, take these common waste items to an appropriately licensed landfill or recycling facility.

Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria has a handy guide available from its website on farm waste management.

You can also find your nearest licensed landfill or recycling facility from the council website or from EPA’s Public Registers.

Burning these materials can pollute the land, waterways, and air. The smoke from waste burn-offs can be especially harmful to people with asthma or other respiratory conditions, as well as older adults, pregnant women, infants, and young children.

Avoid causing a nuisance to your neighbours, harming the environment, or risking a fine from the EPA by checking what materials are allowed in a burn-off.

Rates reminders on the way soon

The final rates instalment due date for the 2024/25 financial year has now passed.

In the coming weeks, Council will be sending out routine ‘Final Notice’ reminders for those with outstanding balances.

Council understands there are people in our community experiencing financial hardship so please contact 03 5382 9777 as soon as possible to talk to our rates staff if you are having problems making the payment.

The team are here to discuss ways we can assist you and there is also information on Council’s website.

TENDERS AND RFQ

Q23/2025

DEFECT REPAIRS ON MULTIPLE BRIDGES

Closes Thursday 12 June

Q24/2025

SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF SEEDLINGS FOR RURAL

REVEGETATION PROGRAM 2026 - 2028

Closes Friday 20 June

25-016

PROVISION OF AFTER HOURS SECURITY SERVICES

Closes Friday 20 June

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

DOMESTIC ANIMAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (DAMP)

The DAMP promotes responsible pet ownership and animal welfare, safeguards the community and environment from nuisance pets, and establishes a framework to assess the adequacy of animal management services.

This plan outlines the services, programs, and policies in place to administer the Act and manage dog and cat issues within the community.

You can have your say by completing the survey on the Engage Horsham platform before Monday 16 June.

HORSHAM MUNICIPAL COMMUNITY FACILITIES STRATEGY

Council is preparing the Horsham Municipal Community Facilities Strategy 2025–2035. A long-term plan that outlines how we will plan, provide and manage community facilities across the municipality to meet the needs of our residents now and into the future.

Have your say by:

• Read the draft strategy on the Engage Horsham platform.

• Complete the online survey before Saturday 28 June.

Your feedback will help shape the strategy and ensure our facilities meet your needs.

HORSHAM ACTIVE RECREATION & COMMUNITY SPORT STRATEGY

Council is creating a 10-year plan to improve sport and active recreation across our community. This plan is called the Horsham Municipal Active Recreation & Community Sport Strategy.

We’re working with Inside Edge Sport & Leisure Planning and Sport & Recreation Victoria to make sure the Strategy is strong, fair, and useful for everyone.

You can have your say by attending an information session, making a written submission, or completing the survey on the Engage Horsham platform before Friday 11 July 2025.

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

Next Council Meeting: Monday, June 23, 2025 - 5.30pm Horsham Rural City Council: 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham | Postal address: PO Box 511 Horsham VIC 3402 | Phone: (03) 5382 9777 | Email: council@hrcc.vic.gov.au | Web: www.hrcc.vic.gov.au

Dedicated trio receive OAM honour

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Stawell’s Elva Raggatt and Horsham’s Ron Goudie have received Medals of the Order of Australia in the King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List for their respective community work.

Mrs Raggatt, a six-decade volunteer, served as Australian Red Cross branch secretary for about 45 years, has delivered meals-on-wheels for 43 years, and volunteered with Stawell’s Uniting Church, Neighbourhood Watch, and Stawell Gift Carnival.

She has been recognised by her community with a Centre for Participation lifetime achievement award, Stawell Lions Club community service award, and was Northern Grampians Shire Council’s citizen of the year in 1998.

Mr Goudie has held executive roles at bowling, football and badminton clubs, is a former president and auditor of Wimmera Growers of Australian Plants, and has been part of Landcare and conservation projects.

He received the Keep Victoria Beautiful Dame Phyllis Frost Award in 2018, and Horsham Rural City Council’s Australia Day Citizen of the Year in 2015.

Ron

2025 Honours List.

ning his fuel business, taking a morning off each week.

Decades later, and at the age of 83 – ‘only a lad’ – Mr Goudie considers himself lucky to still be mobile and able to assist.

“I can still get in and do things. It’s been a pretty good run and I’m enjoying it while I can,” he said.

“There’s some amount of good feeling you have when you’ve contributed, it’s something worthwhile.”

Dunkeld’s Roslyn Greenwood was also recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia in the general division for her extensive service to literature in the Australian and New Zealand Association of Antiquarian Booksellers, as a member of Friends of Hamilton Gallery, and of Dunkeld Fire Brigade.

“There’s always something to be

Mr Goudie said he enjoyed the activity and camaraderie of volunteer groups, particularly the Wimmera River Improvement Committee, which he was still an active member of.

done – we built the shelters at Weir Park with the Men’s Shed, and we have a project just starting up at the helipad, putting a post and rail fence right along it to restrict vehicle access,” he said.

Special award for superintendent

Wimmera-based Victoria Police Superintendent Sharon McCrory has been awarded the Australian Police Medal in the King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List for her distinguished service.

Superintendent McCrory has provided ‘impeccable service’ in several divisions and different ranks, including the National Crime Authority, as a tactical analyst in the Special Operations Group, and as an inspector working with both government and non-government organisations.

As officer-in-charge, she transformed Doncaster Police Station’s performance and ethical health to make it a destination workplace with a waiting list, and played a pivotal role in management of the COVID-19 pandemic and during bushfires in the past two summers.

Superintendent McCrory said she started her working life as a medical receptionist in Mitcham before entering the police academy as a 19-yearold.

“I was getting a bit bored in my job and I must have seen an ad or something, because it wasn’t a lifelong dream to become a police officer,” she

said. “I kind of fell into it, and here I am, 40 years later.”

Her graduating class of 30 members had 10 women, unheard of at the time, who went to work in the 1985-standard women’s uniform of skirts and stockings, and carried handbags.

“It was fun when I started, it was exciting. You’ve got all these powers, legislation, they sent you out with a firearm. You got to look after the community, catch bad guys, all that sort of stuff,” Superintendent McCrory said.

“And while I loved it, it was probably after I got promoted to sergeant and beyond that I found my most challenging and rewarding time, having control of my work and the ability to make decisions.”

Superintendent McCrory’s progressive career drive propelled her from challenge to success across divisions and through the contrasts of Melbourne and its suburbs, but it was the move to the Wimmera in early 2023 that began the final contrast and endof-career rounding out.

“It’s completely different policing to what I was used to, but it has been such a beautiful position to round out my career,” she said.

Superintendent McCrory’s policing area is geographically large, covering the Horsham and Northern Grampians police service areas, taking in 26 police stations – three of which are 24hour, and 14 one-member stations – to the border, north to Speed, across to St Arnaud, to Willaura and Lake Bolac.

“Our focus and our priority is always on whatever is the greatest harm. We very much have a focus on road safety, with family violence not too far behind,” she said.

The substantial community loss and major multi-agency responses of the past two fire seasons have seen Superintendent McCrory in a different, and again challenging, role.

“I developed some really good relationships with individual members of those affected communities,” she said.

“You have to be so many things in that regard – you have to be on the ball, you have to be empathetic, you have to be honest.

“I’d be up the front in the community meetings and I’d be teary. There’d be people in a crowd who were teary and people from Parks Victoria who were dispatching the animals who were crying, and I’d be hugging them.

“Every Wednesday morning we all work, and there’s great enjoyment in that. We tell a lot of stories when we have morning smoko.”

Mr Goudie started volunteering while he was working full-time run-

The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List recognises 830 Australians recommended to the Governor-General by the Council of the Order of Australia and organisations responsible for recommending meritorious, gallantry, distinguished and conspicuous honours.

Recipients will attend investiture ceremonies at Government House in their respective state or territory in coming months to receive the insignia of their award.

BRILLIANT CAREER: Victoria Police Superintendent Sharon McCrory received an Australian Police Medal in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours. A perpetual desire to be challenged has resulted in an impressive and successful 40-year career.

“I’m not afraid to show that human side of me to the community – they’ve seen me cry.”

Superintendent McCrory said her work always seemed to balance out.

“If I had a down day, I would just have to go to something like a community meeting to see the good in people,” she said.

“I have also been blessed to have worked with some fantastic people over the years, so to get an award that

singles out me doesn’t seem right. It’s very much a team effort.

“I couldn’t have done all the things that I’ve done had I not worked with brilliant people and the amazing team that I have here.

“What a privilege to lead people that are happy to go out and do our sort of work day-in. day-out.

“I just feel really blessed.”

– Bronwyn Hastings

ESTEEMED:

Goudie, beside the Wimmera River in Horsham, received an OAM in the King’s Birthday

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

‘Be the difference’ continues legacy

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Amy Pilgrim’s memory is honoured with netball and agricultural show awards at Natimuk and Nhill, and her story told to prevent other ‘totally avoidable’ deaths on the roads, in a campaign headed by the Transport Accident Commission, TAC.

Amy’s mother, Kate Pilgrim, has publicly advocated for road safety alongside her eldest daughter Jessica since Amy’s death in 2020, and is now working with the TAC’s Club Rewards Program in promoting road safety actions at football and netball clubs’ grassroots level.

Each year Amy’s family – father Steven and brother Ben along with her mother and sister – has worked closely with Natimuk United Football Netball Club, where Amy played netball for three years, to embed road safety into its culture.

Mrs Pilgrim said they delivered presentations, hosted a memorial medal round, and presented an end-of-season club person award for people aged from 18 to 25 years, who have shown the values Amy embodied in her play and life.

“The take-home message is don’t speed, don’t drink and drive, don’t do drugs, don’t be distracted on your phone, wear your seatbelt, be safe, especially when you’re driving at night,” she said.

“We chose that age for the award because they are the ones most at risk of breaking all those rules and having accidents.

“Unfortunately, most of those road rules were broken when Amy passed away.”

Amy grew up at Winiam, near Nhill, and played netball at Nhill and Natimuk before gaining her Diploma in Agribusiness and Wool Classing at Longerenong College –her wool classing stencil and photo are hung in the school’s woolshed.

She moved to central Queensland to work as a station hand at Mantuan Downs.

Mrs Pilgrim said on the day she died, her daughter was a passenger in a vehicle when, after leaving a hotel where the pair was enjoying an afternoon off work, the driver took a video on her phone.

“The driver was taking a six-second Snapchat of herself and was distracted,” she said.

“She went through a ditch and flipped the vehicle. She walked away. Amy passed

“I

don’t think anything worse can happen to a person than losing and burying a child. It’s just not the way life’s supposed to go. Amy’s death was totally avoidable”

–Kate Pilgrim

away immediately.” Amy’s memorial round is on June 21, when Natimuk hosts Harrow-Balmoral.

“Each year we go and watch netball for the day, and award a player from each netball grade a medal in memory of Amy,”

Mrs Pilgrim said.

“We do a little pack for the award winners with Amy’s story in it, and we tell the story about the accident and how devastating it’s been for our family and the community, the nightmare we live all the time, every single day.

“And all the life that Amy’s missing out on and that we’re missing out on having with her.”

Mrs Pilgrim said although she found speaking to crowds emotionally difficult, it was important to get the message out for people to be safe.

“We just like doing it because we get to talk about Amy, and we don’t ever want to not talk about her,” she said.

“Normally Jess steps in halfway because I can’t fully finish. A lot of the young ones in the audience have tears in their eyes, but I am getting a bit stronger talking in front of people.”

This year’s TAC Club Rewards Program has the tagline ‘be the difference’ and is offering AFL Victoria-affiliated football and netball clubs to apply for rewards of up to $10,000 to spend on club initiatives to develop a culture where all members consider road safety before getting in a vehicle.

More than 230 clubs earned a share of last year’s funding pool, with many motivated to take part after being affected by road tragedy.

At the campaign’s launch last week, 133 people had lost their lives on Victorian roads, with more than 60 per cent of deaths happening on the same regional roads that footballers and netballers travel on for games every week.

More information on the rewards program can be found at play.afl/

victoria/tacclubrewards. Mrs Pilgrim said the driver in the fatal collision received a three-month jail term.

“We were disappointed in the outcome, but it is now our life mission to make sure that Amy’s death was not in vain,” she said.

“We feel very strongly about educating young people, praying they learn that they aren’t invincible and there are, and will be, serious consequences for poor choices and behaviour on our roads.

“You really think that nothing like that’s ever going to happen to you or your family.

“I don’t think anything worse can happen to a person than losing and burying a child.

“It’s just not the way life’s supposed to go. Amy’s death was totally avoidable.”

Council money strengthening communities

Telopea Downs Progress Association, Edenhope Adult Riding Club, and Kaniva’s gun and hockey clubs were successful in West Wimmera Shire Council’s second round of the 2024-25 community strengthening grants program.

Telopea Downs Progress Association’s $5706 will fund a reverse cycle heating and cooling installation for the Telopea Downs Hall and Edenhope Adult Riding Club’s $1944 will purchase a round yard for the Edenhope Equestrian

Reserve. Kaniva Gun Club will receive $4977 to purchase a new clay bird thrower, receiver, and wireless activation remote, and Kaniva Hockey Club will receive $5000 to install new safety fencing around its hockey field.

The funding has two rounds each year, with three categories – community projects, community events, and facilities upgrades.

More information on upcoming grant rounds can be found at westwimmera.vic.gov.au.

MEMORY: Kate Pilgrim, a Natimuk United Football Netball Club member and passionate road safety advocate, tragically lost her 23-year-old daughter, Amy, in a road crash. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Directed

by Brittanie

Shipway

Performed by a stellar cast including Lorinda May Merrypor (Juliet in ‘& Juliet’), Shaka Cook (‘Hamilton’) and Lisa Maza (‘Stingers’) and backed by a live band.

Against a backdrop of curfews, and the fear of arrest, white and black manage to form their own club where they can forget their worries and experience rare happy times, and with a little luck... romance. Forty years on, as the club faces demolition, our characters meet once again to stage a musical reunion and protest in an attempt to save their old stomping ground. Dark secrets and ghosts that have lingered for more than half a century are revealed, and we discover that reconciliation is more than saying sorry.

Bushwackers

Life Drawing with Frances Cannon 15 June 2025 | 2pm

Imagine Live by Jolyon James –

by Alison

Songs that inspire

One of Australia’s most beloved folk and country bands The Bushwackers will play at Horsham Heritage Hall on June 22.

The event, organised by North West Grampians Lions Club, will raise money for mental health program Grampians Health Rural Outreach Program.

The concert is in honour of the club’s late president Keith Fischer, who died last month.

North West Grampians Lions Club member Andrew Almond said the concert aimed to bring people together – particularly as the region faces drought.

“This year is especially tough for people of western Victoria and even tougher for the farming communities of the Wimmera and Mallee,” he said.

“We just want to provide a gathering for everyone – particularly our farming community – to enjoy, plus raise money for rural people’s mental health.”

Formed in 1971, The Bushwackers play Australian music, much of it based on the traditional folk and working songs from the early 20th century, infused with their own brand of contemporary subject matter and instrumentation.

The band played in Horsham last year at the Maydale Pavilion.

With a laconic, distinctive Australian sound, Dobe Newton and Roger Corbett voice 50 years of songs, tunes and dance calls. As much as the music has changed, the spirit of the songs and stories that inspired the first Bushwackers have not.

With their politics and social conscience proudly worn on their sleeve, the band combines original material with a traditional repertoire.

Songs such as ‘Beneath The Southern Cross’ and ‘When Britannia Ruled The Waves’, sit alongside a musical setting of Lawson’s epic poem ‘Faces in The Street’, ‘The Ballad of 1891’ celebrating the great shearers’ strike, and ‘Leave It In The Ground’ highlighting the fight against the mining companies in Australia.

Newton and Corbett are joined onstage with a great team of musicians wielding fiddles, accordions, mandolins, guitars, bass, and drums.

Tickets cost $40 for adults and $30 for concession, and can be purchased through Horsham Town Hall’s website at www. horshamtownhall.com.au/hthevent/thebushwackers.

Arrests follow Stawell robbery

Northern Grampians Crime Investigation

Unit detectives have arrested and charged three men following a robbery in Stawell in the early hours of May 31.

Police allege the victim, a Singaporean national, was at Cato Park, Stawell, taking photos of the night sky at about 12.20am when he was approached by three unknown males who made demands for his camera.

A struggle followed and the victim, 23, was assaulted before the offenders fled towards Main Street, with the man’s camera.

He sustained minor injuries in the incident.

Police executed search warrants at addresses in Stawell and Ararat on Thursday, arresting three men.

The camera was recovered damaged, but the SD card was returned intact to the owner.

A 20-year-old Stawell man was charged with robbery and affray and bailed to appear at Ararat Magistrates’ Court on July 25. A Stawell man, 20, and a Ararat man, 25, were released pending summons.

The Grampians will boast a significant addition to Australia’s network of art institutions and environmental attractions when Halls Gap becomes home to WAMA Foundation’s National Centre for Environmental Art.

Scheduled to open on July 5, it will be Australia’s first gallery exclusively dedicated to showcasing and reflecting on artistic narratives concerning the natural world.

The gallery will launch with its inaugural exhibition ‘End and Being’, by Western Australian artist Jacobus Capone, with his most ambitious undertaking to date, confronting the escalating global crisis of planetary warming.

WAMA Foundation chief executive Pippa Mott said ‘End and Being’ was the first of a diverse range of exhibitions across a spectrum of artistic mediums and genres.

“Our program, encompassing new commissions, group exhibi-

tions and nationally touring shows, will be rooted by a spirit of inquiry,” she said.

“Our take on the genre of environmental art is expansive, offering ample space for both playful exploration and deep contemplation.”

UNSW Galleries director and exhibition curator José Da Silva said he hoped audiences viewed ‘End and Being’ as an opportunity to slow down and reflect on the emotional and spiritual dimensions of environmental loss and our entangled relationship with fragile natural systems.

“Jacobus and I are deeply honoured to be part of WAMA’s inaugural exhibition and to present a project that, like WAMA, seeks to foster a dialogue between art, humanity and the environment,” he said.

“Jabobus’ work, with its profound sensitivity to environmental

change and human vulnerability, speaks directly to that mission, and has guided our decisions to present this particular project.” For its initial launch, WAMA Foundation will invite audiences to enjoy the outcome of its stage one development, which encompasses the National Centre for Environmental Art, Gariwerd/Grampians Endemic Botanic Garden, Jallukar Native Grasslands and new artwork commissions across its grounds.

Stage two will further enhance the visitor experience with accessible boardwalks, engaging nature play areas, and a sculpture trail to be unveiled in the future.

The WAMA Foundation project is supported by the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund, with additional support for ‘End and Being’ provided by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.

RECEIVERSHIP

We can all help

Droughtand the plight of farmers has certainly dominated the headlines in the past month.

Despite the weekend’s downpour, the belowaverage rain in the past year or two means the dry soils are coming from a long way back to catch up to where they need to be.

And it’s not just western Victoria, other parts of Victoria – and of course South Australia –are facing the effects of a severe lack of rain.

The widespread opposition and protests to the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund tax has at least spread the message to our city cousins of how badly regional Victoria – particularly farmers – are suffering.

I’m not sure too many people in metropolitan Melbourne – including Members of Parliament – realised regional Victoria was in a drought.

But it’s not until you actually visit a farm, and talk to farmers that you realise just how tough it is for them, and their families.

And it’s not just financially – it’s the mental load.

Many of us, particularly those who are not farmers, may wonder what can we do to help?

There are various charities trying to assist farmers as best they can.

But with the floods affecting farmers in New South Wales, and drought in many parts of eastern Australia, the demand for help is high.

BlazeAid, who has assisted endlessly after every natural disaster since the Black Saturday bushfires, has created a program to offer farmers a hand.

In my former job as a newspaper editor in Kilmore, I got to know Blazeaid founder Kevin Butler – a farmer from Kilmore East.

He was a great contributor to the newspaper’s letters to the editor section, and would often let us know when he thought there was a story or local issue we should be covering.

His heart was always in the right place – and I have no doubt it is this time around.

Despite himself facing drought conditions on

EDITORIAL

By Lauren Henry

his farm, Kevin and the team at BlazaAid have created the Give a Farmer A Break program. It allows farmers in need to connect with generous volunteers and donors.

The platform was created to support farmers facing drought by matching them with essential assistance, including volunteers, donations of equipment and feed, and agistment opportunities for livestock.

People can give up their time to volunteer –much like BlazeAid does after a fire or flood –or can make a donation at gofund.me/01f78c27.

Volunteers can help farmers with fencing, water checks, stock care, or house-sitting to provide farmers with a well-earned break.

Or there may be people who can provide agistment or donations in kind, such as farm equipment, feed, or other useful resources.

There is also the opportunity to provide famers with a break, by offering accommodation to farmers in need of a break.

For farmers in need of help, visit giveafarmer abreak.com to register.

More information can also be found on the BlazeAid Facebook page, emailing admin@ blazeaid.com.au or giving Debbie a call on 0418 990 267.

While many farmers can be too proud to ask for help – please remember you are not alone in these difficult times. Plenty of people want to help, and I’m sure when the times are better, you can repay the favour.

• For mental health support, people can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au; and for financial assistance and wellbeing support, the Rural Financial Counselling Service can be reached at 1300 735 578 or via wswrcs.com.au.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Stand up

It’s hard not to be moved by the devastating stories told by farmers grappling with one of the driest years on record.

There’s no feed, no water, and disappointingly, none of the much needed on-ground support farmers need to help relieve the pressure of mounting bills.

It’s having a flow-on effect on us all, taking money out of our local businesses and our communities.

For months, Victorian producers have called for fodder, agistment and water support, yet their pleas continue to go ignored by an Allan Labor government that simply does not appear to care.

No doubt the drought taskforce – which includes some very wise and well-experienced people – will put forward these and similar ideas to government.

However, with no guaranteed funding to make

the Taskforce recommendations a reality, farmers are no closer to the financial support they need and deserve from Labor.

The cold hard reality is Victorians are paying the price for Labor’s inability to manage money, and as disaster looms, it’s Victorian farmers who are paying the greatest price.

So many times, we’ve heard the Premier and Treasurer spruiking their regional Victorian credentials.

These words mean nothing when Premier Jacinta Allan and her government don’t support farmers and regional communities when they need someone in their corner.

Labor must step up, stand up for all Victorians, and provide the immediate financial support for our farmers they desperately need.

Emma Kealy Member for Lowan

APPEAL:

Visitor

Greta

Low and Natimuk’s Keith Lockwood at the Arapiles Climbing Museum, showcasing Natimuk’s appeal as a hub for adventurers and nature lovers.

Every vote counts for tiny towns

Natimuk and Halls Gap are finalists in this year’s Victoria Tourism Industry Council’s Top Tourism Town Awards.

Both are nominated in the Tiny Tourism Town category for towns with a population under 1500, with their opportunity to win resting with a public vote.

Marketed as ‘the tiny town with a big heart’, Natimuk is known as the gateway to the world-renowned climbing destination Mt Arapiles.

It has also become a hub for adventurers, artists, and nature lovers.

Horsham Mayor Ian Ross said the recognition placed Natimuk among the state’s best, celebrating its unique blend of outdoor adventure, creative spirit, and warm community welcome.

“Whether it is international

climbers scaling the iconic cliffs, birdwatchers and bushwalkers exploring the Wimmera plains, or visitors soaking up the town’s rich history and vibrant arts scene, Natimuk consistently punches above its weight in delivering unforgettable experiences,” he said.

Halls Gap is a destination for nature-lovers, adventurers, families and foodies, whether for a weekend retreat or an active holiday immersed in the outdoors.

Northern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Karen Hyslop said Halls Gap might be small in size, but its visitor appeal was enormous.

“From the breathtaking landscapes of Grampians-Gariwerd National Park to wildlife encounters, boutique accommodation, local eateries, and a strong connection to culture

and community. Our nomination is a testament to the tireless efforts of our community, local businesses, volunteers and tourism operators,” she said.

“They are the heart of the visitor experience – offering warm welcomes, curating memorable experiences, and working together to share what makes Halls Gap so special.”

The VTIC awards highlight towns that deliver outstanding tourism experiences, foster community pride, and offer genuine visitor appeal.

The public vote – a key component to securing a gold win – is open until 5pm on June 27.

For more information about the campaign and how to vote, people can visit www.vtic.com.au/top tourismtown/2025finalists.

Richard, Penelope and Dean

Tax-time savings a real gift

Businesses still have time to book Wade’s Horsham for heating, cooling and hot water upgrades before the end of the ﬁnancial year, to take advantage of tax-time savings and government rebates.

Wade’s Horsham can help businesses save money on their energy bills when they commit to upgrading their gas or inef cient electric heating, cooling or hot water systems before the end of this nancial year, with installation scheduled at any time to suit.

Businesses transitioning from gas to electric could be eligible for rebates through the Victorian Energy Upgrades, VEU, program.

Celebrating 40 years in business, Wade’s Horsham are experts in solar, heating, cooling and electrical, and can advise businesses on the best heating and cooling system to suit their needs, from ducted for entire buildings, or split systems to suit individual of ce spaces.

Gas hot water systems can be changed to electric with a more energy-ef cient heat pump, with an all-in-one heat pump available, or a two-part refrigerated heat pump.

Installing a new system not only makes good business sense by saving money, but contributes to a more sustainable future by reducing energy consumption to help meet Victoria’s 2030 emissions reduction targets.

Small businesses can save up to $500 each year on their power bills, and larger businesses up to $74,000, by upgrading older, inef cient systems.

Wade’s Horsham services a large area, taking in Warracknabeal, Ararat, Halls Gap, Kaniva and Nhill.

The friendly, professional staff offer free quotes and can help businesses navigate the rebate process.

People can contact Wade’s Horsham today to nd out more about taking advantage of tax time this end-ofnancial-year.

BIRTHDAY VIBES: Wade’s owner Adam Jolley and general manager Michelle Khan celebrate the business’s milestone birthday. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Projects light up community spirit

Two major lighting upgrades were celebrated on Thursday at Harrow and Kaniva recreation reserves, marking a significant investment in sports infrastructure across West Wimmera Shire.

The Harrow and Kaniva AFL lighting upgrade projects were officially opened by Mayor Tim Meyer, councillors and community members.

Each project received $250,000 from the State Government, with additional funding from the council and the respective community groups.

The $333,334 Harrow AFL lighting upgrade was jointly funded by Sport and Recreation Victoria, $250,000; West Wimmera Shire Council, $33,334; and Harrow Recreation Reserve Committee, $50,000.

Works included the removal of outdated infrastructure and installation of four new lighting poles with 150 lux LED lights around the oval.

In Kaniva, the $333,334 lighting project also saw the removal and replacement of four lighting poles, delivering 150 lux lighting to the football oval.

The Kaniva project was funded by Sport and Recreation Victoria, $250,000; West Wimmera Shire Council, $38,334; and Kaniva Leeor United Football Netball Club, $45,000.

Both upgrades will improve safety and extend the hours the ovals can be used by sports clubs, schools, and the broader community.

Cr Meyer said the lighting upgrades would benefit the region for years to come.

“Projects like these are great examples of what can be achieved when council and the community work together,” he said.

“The new lighting not only improves the experience for players and spectators but also makes our recreation spaces safer and more accessible for everyone.”

Celebration of Edenhope

Grampians Health Edenhope is celebrating the cultural diversity of the town with a vibrant community event that brings together music, food and art from around the world.

Grampians Health Edenhope’s Cultural Fusion event, on tomorrow, June 12, will include a panel discussion ‘Small Town, Big Stories’ about residents’ pathways to Edenhope.

Chief people officer Claire Woods said Grampians Health was committed to creating an environment where international recruits could thrive.

“As one of the largest regional health services in western Victoria, Grampians Health is deeply committed to supporting international recruits – not only through relocation assistance and professional development, but also by fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment where they can thrive,” she said.

“Many of our staff members have made great sacrifices and overcome huge challenges to relocate and fill crucial roles in our regional communities.

“These staff fill important roles across our hospitals and care communities, helping us bring specialised care closer to home.

“This event is part of Grampians Health’s broader commitment to celebrating this exciting diversity in Edenhope and building connections in the community.”

The Wimmera Filipino-Australian Club band and dancers will perform, and attendees can preorder a $10 Filipino banquet.

St Malachy’s primary school students will display multicultural artwork at the event, including Filipino Saramanok birds, Aboriginal flags, African bead jewellery and cultural portraits. They will also perform Filipino and Indonesian dances.

West Wimmera Shire chief executive David Bezuidenhout will share his story of migrating from South Africa.

Ms Woods said the community’s readiness to partner and support the event was overwhelming.

“Our hope was to highlight and celebrate the wonderful diversity in Edenhope, and we’ve been delighted to find that this community is on the same page,” she said.

“There is no better way to bring community together than with delicious food, live music, dancing and some insight into the immigrant experience.”

Grampians Health Edenhope’s Cultural Fusion event will be at Edenhope and District Community Centre, between noon and 3pm.

To pre-order the $10 Filipino banquet lunch, people can text 0409 215 696.

DEPARTURE DATE: MARCH 16, 2026 DURATION: 16 DAYS

OFFICIAL: Kaniva-Leeor United Football Netball Club president Tyson Vivian, Kaniva College students Emily Dodson, Keira Jewell and Jackson Staehr and West Wimmera Mayor Tim Meyer at the opening of the Kaniva lighting upgrade project.

UNITED: AFL Wimmera Mallee regional manager Angela Ballinger and West Wimmera Shire Council Mayor Tim Meyer at the official opening of the new lights at the Harrow Recreation Reserve.

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2025/26 Annual Budget

It's that time of year again. The 2025/26 Annual Budget is now available for community review and feedback until 3pm on Thursday, June 12. Formal written submissions can be provided via council's website or via post, with material presented for councillor consideration at a briefing scheduled for June 16. Any person wishing to be heard in support of their written submission must request this in their submission and will need to appear in person or by a person acting on their behalf on June 16. Depending on further actions required following the briefing, the Budget will then be endorsed at an unscheduled council meeting on June 23. Details of the meeting are below.

A copy of the 2025/26 Draft Budget is available on our website and is available for viewing at customer service in Stawell and St Arnaud town halls. For a hard copy, call (03) 5358 8700.

Northern Grampians Shire Council Community Updates

Council will call on the State Government to find an alternative to its VNI West transmission line project amid fears for the nation’s food security along with community mental health and wellbeing. The decision was made at a council meeting last week. Council is funding two sporting clubs in Northern Grampians Shire to participate in Act@Play, a unique program designed to create cultural change and foster respectful, equitable relationships. Women’s Health Grampians will deliver the program. More information is available on our website.

Stage one of the St Arnaud Swimming Pool development is underway. Once completed, the St Arnaud community will have access to modern change rooms with upgraded shower and toilet facilities; new tiling and painting of pools; and an upgraded administration, first aid and kiosk area. Works are on track to be completed in October in time for the 2025/26 summer season. Stage-two works, which include upgrades to the pool, will occur in early 2026, after the summer season. Make A Change Australia will host a ‘Let’s Talk About BIG Weather’ session at St Arnaud Town Hall on Tuesday, June 24 from 11am to 12.30pm. People can visit www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/ Community/Lets-talk-about-BIG-weather for more information, to RSVP or to complete a survey. Feedback will help shape future programs including those focused on climate resilience.

Monday, June 23 in the Council Chambers, Pleasant Creek Historic Precinct, Stawell, at 12.30pm. The meeting is to consider the Annual Budget 2025/26, Revenue and Rating Plan, and Infrastructure Program 2025/26. The meeting is open to the public and will be livestreamed via YouTube. Link on our website.

Halls Gap is in the running to be crowned Victoria’s Top Tiny Tourism Town for 2025 – but the town needs your help.

Public voting for the coveted award is now open and we are calling on residents and visitors to help Halls Gap secure the most-loved title.

The Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards, presented by Victorian Tourism Industry Council, VTIC, recognise excellence in tourism across the state, highlighting the vibrant and diverse destinations that make regional Victoria shine. People can vote by June 27 by scanning the QR code above or online at www.vtic.com.au/toptourismtown/2025finalists/ halls-gap/

Voters go in a draw to win a Melbourne escape, including two nights at a top hotel and dining experiences at some of the city’s best restaurants.

Draft budget feedback

One day remains for Northern Grampians Shire residents to provide feedback on a draft 202526 budget for the municipality.

At a meeting last week, Northern Grampians Shire councillors gave the draft budget their in-principle support, with residents able to provide feedback until 3pm tomorrow.

Outlined in the budget are sports infrastructure projects such as $1.3-million towards a redevelopment of Navarre Recreation Reserve’s clubrooms and $2.3-million to develop St Arnaud’s swimming pool.

The council has set aside $7.8-million for roads, $3-million for bridges and $1.3-million for parks and recreation, adding to a total $19.2-million capital works budget.

While the budget projects an operating deficit of $1.542-million for the 2025-26 financial year, councillors said they were satisfied with the organisation’s financial management amid difficult economic conditions, both in Australia and globally.

“Throughout the past few months we have worked alongside the council team to thoroughly consider all aspects of the organisation,” Mayor Karen Hyslop said.

“This year’s budget has been influenced by a range of factors, including operating within a rate-capped environment, rising inflation and cost of materials, and reduced funding opportunities from state and federal governments.

“Given the environment, we have a strong focus on financial viability and long-term sustainability. As part of the budget process, we have gone through a period of cost analysis and consolidation to determine ways to become more

efficient and cost-effective, both internally and externally.”

Cr Murray Emerson said he believed the budget balanced community needs with prudent financial management.

“We’re one of the very few councils that abide by the State Government rate cap of three per cent,” he said.

“We give a very generous concession to our farming community where we can. We don’t have any additional rating revenue that we call upon, so overall I think the council is in a position where they’ve got a very difficult time with their financial position, but we’re still trying to do the best we can for the community.”

Cr Hyslop said the council would avoid taking out any loans in the coming financial year.

“Council is not considering borrowing any money as this would only mask any sustainability issues,” she said.

“The reality is, we are in a difficult position with a lack of outside funding, however we believe despite the challenges we have done the best we can for our community.”

The proposed budget includes the next phase of the council’s Revenue and Rating Plan, which continues a floating differential model that was introduced in response to volatility in property valuations at the beginning of the previous council term.

“In particular, there were significant movements in farmland valuations, which led to those properties paying a greater share of the total rates bill,” Cr Hyslop said.

“The intent of the floating differential model was to fix the proportion of rates paid by each property type. This eliminates ‘rates shock’ caused by dispropor-

tionate valuation movements between property types.”

Under the plan the council will gradually phase the proportion of rates paid by each property type back to historical levels over a four-year period.

The plan also phases out a municipal charge in the 2025-26 financial year, which Cr Hyslop said would benefit lower-valued properties.

Cr Hyslop said the council would continue to model the impact of the changes after each annual revaluation and would consider readjusting the floating differential percentages to ensure an equitable outcome was maintained.

Before formally adopting the budget at an unscheduled council meeting on June 23, councillors will consider submissions from the public.

Any person wishing to make a submission on the proposed budget must do so in writing before 3pm tomorrow – June 12.

Any person wishing to be heard in support of their written submission must request to do so in their submission and will need to appear in person or via a person acting on their behalf at a councillor briefing on Monday, June 16 in the Stawell council chambers.

Submissions can be made in writing to the chief executive, Northern Grampians Shire Council, PO Box 580, Stawell, VIC, 3380 or online at www. ngshire.vic.gov.au/Projects-andConsultation/Have-Your-Say/202526Proposed-Budget.

All submissions will become a part of a document available to the public. People can view the draft budget online at www.ngshire.vic.gov.au or visit council customer services at Stawell Town Hall or St Arnaud Town Hall.

Support

‘simply the

The Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation – Ararat Branch’s annual Black-Tie Gala Night raised more than $30,000.

The main auction raised $25,000, the silent auction $5000, plus the raffle brought in additional funds.

The 23rd annual event was on May 30 at Ararat Town Hall with 290 guests in attendance.

Money raised will go towards buying a new $114,070 anaesthetic machine in the Jason Bond Perioperative Unit at East Grampians Health Service.

Ararat branch president Dianne Radford thanked the community and sponsors for their support and generosity, particularly major sponsors ACE Radio, AME Systems and Ararat Rural City for not only stepping up for the gala night, but supporting the Grampians Ride to Remember earlier this year.

“These major events don’t just happen and the support of all

donors, supporters and volunteers is truly valued by the dedicated Ararat branch team,” she said.

“Again we have had a really successful gala night and it is great as a community we can be involved in so many ways, other than be a guest. Everyone should feel proud that we can get together once a year and have a great time for such a great cause – it was fantastic and together with the Ararat branch team, we are ever so grateful for the support of such a generous community – simply the best.”

Grampians Ride chairman Dean Pinniger presented a cheque for $40,000 to EGHS board vice chairman Cameron Evans, fundraised through the ride.

Ms Radford said the donation was the second instalment and she hoped the financial results from this year’s gala night would see the Ararat branch be able to make the final instalment in the coming months.

GRATEFUL: Blue Ribbon Foundation – Ararat Branch members Stuart Kerr, Shane Allgood and Nick Bush. Picture: Sharon Basset

best’

The Risk of Set & Forget

How to Review Your Insurance

Insurance is one of the most important safeguards we have, yet it’s o en overlooked once the policy is in place. Many Australians forget that insurance isn’t a “set and forget” product. Our lives, homes, and businesses evolve over time, and so do the risks we face. Reviewing your insurance regularly is essential to ensure you remain adequately protected.

e rst step in a thorough review is to re ect on any changes in your circumstances. Have you recently renovated your home or purchased high-value items like jewellery or electronics? Perhaps your business has grown, requiring more stock or new equipment. ese changes can signi cantly impact your coverage needs.

Another key aspect to review is the sum insured. In ation, rising building costs, and supply chain challenges mean the cost to rebuild a home or re-

place assets has increased substantially in recent years. If your policy hasn’t been updated to re ect these changes, you could nd yourself underinsured, leaving you out of pocket in the event of a claim.

It’s also critical to read the ne print of your policy. Inclusions and exclusions can vary widely between insurers, and what was once suitable for your needs may now leave gaps in your protection. Similarly, adjusting your excess—the amount you pay out-of-pocket when making a claim—can affect your premium and nancial position in the event of a loss.

While the process can seem overwhelming, a quali ed insurance broker can make it simple. Brokers act as your advocate, using their expertise to ensure your coverage aligns with your speci c needs. ey can identify gaps, secure better deals, and provide clarity on complex policy terms.

“By reviewing your insurance regularly and with the right guidance, you can protect yourself against unexpected financial burdens.

Insurance is about peace of mind—don’t let outdated policies compromise that security.”

Abbie Wilson, National Insurance Brokers

NIBA VIC / TAS Broker Of The Year

Proud supporter of local farmers

Record scholarship support

More than 20 students at Federation University Australia’s Wimmera campus were among a growing list of annual scholarship recipients, including several from the region’s Karen migrant population.

The university handed out a record 309 scholarships last month, up from 245 in 2024 and amounting to more than $1-million of student support.

Among the scholarship recipients were 21 Wimmera students, with several of the university’s Karen students receiving scholarships reserved for refugees.

Nhill’s K’nyaw Yo Kaw Paw was awarded the $1000 Hamilton Area Rural Australians for Refugees Scholarship.

The Certificate III in Individual Support student said it would help her with travel to and from the Wimmera campus, as well as other study expenses.

“Receiving this scholarship gives me more financial support,” she said.

“I will buy a laptop and it will help me with travelling expenses. I am learning how to drive, taking driving lessons.”

The Hamilton Area Rural Australians for Refugees group was established in 2015 by a group of residents from the Hamilton region who wanted to counteract misinformation levelled at people seeking asylum, particularly those coming as maritime arrivals.

It is one of several scholarships offered by the university to refugee, migrant and culturally and linguistically diverse, CALD, students.

Ms Yo Kaw Paw thanked the group

for supporting her through the scholarship.

“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the Hamilton group for choosing me as a recipient of this scholarship,” she said.

“I am truly honoured. Thank you for your incredible generosity.”

Another Wimmera scholarship recipient was Diploma of Nursing student Kerry Piera, who received the $4000 Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation Scholarship.

She said it would help pay for accommodation during her placement in Ballarat through the course and would also help buy study materials when she embarks on a Bachelor of Nursing

Online site for ‘issues’

HONOUR: Federation University student K’nyaw Yo Kaw Paw, left, of Nhill, receives the Hamilton Area Rural Australians for Refugees Scholarship from Gill Hiscock at a ceremony last month.

Stray livestock and road hazards are among issues Ararat Rural City Council is calling on residents to report via its online ticketing system Councilwise.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said Councilwise was the most efficient way for residents to make sure issues were assessed and resolved, with relevant council members notified of any issues reported on the site.

“We take our residents’ concerns seriously here at council and we are committed to getting them resolved as quickly as possible,” Dr Harrison said.

“By communicating your concerns, you’re helping us to prioritise maintenance and ensure our municipality is well maintained for everyone in the community.”

degree next year. “My father suffered with renal failure when I was in my teens in an era when district nursing did not exist, so mum and I nursed him for four-and-a-half years before he died,” she said.

“I went into the course with some pre-existing knowledge, but I’ve learnt so much more and the teaching staff have been nothing short of wonderful.”

Federation University vice-chancellor and president Duncan Bentley said a third of this year’s scholarship recipients had an ongoing illness or disability, 60 per cent were experiencing acute financial hardship and 47 per cent had experienced family violence.

Prof Bentley said the scholarships aimed to give students peace of mind so they could participate fully in their studies.

“We are proud to give students the support they need to give life to their aspirations,” he said.

“This year’s record number of scholarships would not be possible without the support of generous donors, and we thank them for helping to transform the lives of Federation students.”

More information about Federation University’s scholarships is available online at www.federation.edu.au/ engage/give-to-federation/ scholarships.

People can lodge a report on an issue or make a request by visiting ararat-portal.councilwise.com.au and completing a short form detailing the specific issue, its location, and any other relevant information.

Residents can also upload photos to assist council staff in identifying the issue.

Once a ticket is submitted the website will generate a unique reference number, enabling residents to monitor the status of their report.

At the time of submitting a ticket, people can also request that the council contact them via phone or email.

For those who prefer email, maintenance requests can also be submitted to council@ararat.vic.gov.au.

A council customer service representative will then create a ticket on their behalf.

You're invited - Banking Series No 2

Dwain Duxson

In 2011, Dwain Duxson founded Farm Tender, an online marketplace that has grown to over 80,000 members, facilitating the buying and selling of agricultural goods across Australia. Duxson also leads initiatives like DelayPay and The Farmers Club, focusing on digital solutions and community building in agriculture. His experience in adapting traditional farming to the digital age o�ers valuable insights for farmers and professionals in the agriculture industry.

When

Webster: re-start unfinished inquiry

Member for Mallee and shadow minister for local government Anne Webster has called on the Federal Government to re-start the unfinished inquiry into the sustainability of more than 530 shires and councils across Australia as soon as Parliament returns late next month.

Dr Webster’s call comes amid criticism of the lowest number of parliamentary sitting days this calendar year in 20 years, with parliament now on a 10-week break.

The inquiry’s terms of reference were: the financial sustainability and funding of local government; the changing infrastructure and service

delivery obligations of local government; any structural impediments to security for local government workers and infrastructure and service delivery; trends in the attraction and retention of a skilled workforce in the local government sector, including impacts of labour hire practices; and the role of the Federal Government in addressing issues raised.

“Fourteen months ago Local Government Minister Catherine King said she had referred the local government sustainability inquiry to the Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport because local government faced ‘pressing issues’ and that the inquiry was ‘long overdue’,” Dr Webster said.

“Fellow Minister Kristy McBain welcomed the inquiry saying it built upon feedback received in the preceding 18 months.

“Yet the Labor-dominated Inquiry only delivered an interim report 11 months after it started, and the inquiry was then prorogued for the election.”

Dr Webster said the inquiry’s interim report made no recommendations, but submissions suggested changes to the Financial Assistance Grants, the Intergovernmental Agreement on Federal Financial Relations, horizontal equalisation, natural disaster mitigation preparations and National Cabinet.

“I call upon the Minister as a first order of business when Parliament resumes to re-open the inquiry and

let it deliver a final report,” she said.

“In my own north-western Victorian electorate of Mallee, small shires consistently tell me they are struggling financially – and I am putting that mildly.

“Faced with a myriad of divisive energy project proposals, some have sought funding for additional staffing to cope with all the analysis and community consultation expected of them.”

Dr Webster said The Nationals had fought hard last month to ensure the Coalition remained focused on a Regional Australia Future Fund, which would deliver funding, in perpetuity, for regional Australia.

“Regional councils and shires often

Driving crazy ideas into communities

Crazy Ideas College teamed with Ballarat Tech School to involve Horsham’s St Brigid’s year-nine students in a social innovators program, converting students’ big, passionate ideas to action in their communities.

Crazy Ideas College lead facilitator and program co-ordinator Jenny Turnham said about 40 students participated in the two-day program.

“It is all about finding what young people are passionate about and actually finding solutions,” she said.

“They start with a crazy big idea

and then they move down into what we call a smart start experiment, which is where they find a small first step that they can do that gets the genius of their crazy big idea out into the community.”

Ballarat Tech School’s Damon Minotti said the program had been running in Ballarat for several years, and was branching out into regional areas, particularly with a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, STEM, approach.

“Ideally, we’d like to see a collabo-

rative space where all of the schools have representation, and there’s a bit of cross-pollination of ideas from different schools,” he said.

“We’d like to have multiple schools involved so we can see a bigger uptake next year and build some community.

“Ballarat Tech School is looking at supporting some of the government schools to start with in the Wimmera to build a ‘girls in STEM’ program, to promote that concept of you can’t be what you can’t see.”

Mr Minotti said there has been several women move into STEM areas and into the industries.

“So we are providing some role models for them and some handson opportunities to do some STEM learning, and we’re looking to do that towards the end of this year in partnership with Horsham College and some of the smaller more rural high schools around,” he said.

– Bronwyn Hastings

depend on grants to deliver infrastructure – they don’t have the alternate means of raising revenue that city councils do,” she said.

“Rural councils increasingly are also the only organisation in town that can end childcare deserts, and deliver appropriate home care services for the aged and NDIS users.

“Shires are holding back because they are being fiscally responsible, fearing for their long-term viability.

“I also fear for regional communities suffering record low rainfall, drought, flooding or other unfolding natural disasters that will make it even harder to approach their ratepayers to stay financially sustainable.”

Walking for awareness

Wimmera Prostate Cancer Support

Group is calling on men to schedule a prostate health check with their doctor during Men’s Health Week, from June 9 to 15.

There are 153 men diagnosed with prostate cancer each year in the state’s north-west region, with one in five men at risk of developing the disease in their lifetime.

Group leader Brian Nagorcka said prostate cancer was the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, detected with a blood test, but people lacked understanding about the disease.

“It’s a disease that turns men’s lives upside down, which is why we want to encourage men to get checked early, and if they are diagnosed, we’re here for them,” he said.

The group, affiliated with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, PCFA, meets at noon for lunch and a guest speaker on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Horsham RSL. “If you’ve been impacted by prostate cancer, we encourage you to join us for support, information and a like-minded community,” Mr Nagorcka said. He also encouraged people to sign up for the Walk for Him, a go-at-yourown-pace walking challenge during Men’s Health Week to raise funds for PCFA.

“All funds will help fund new research into clinical trials, PCFA’s prostate cancer specialist nurses and other vital support services,” he said. “Joint action has never been more important – together we can make a difference.”

To sign up, people can visit www.walk forhim.org.au.

DAZZLING: Ballarat Tech School has teamed up with Crazy Ideas College in a social innovators two-day program at St Brigid’s College. Students Scarlett Phillps-Holms and Hannah Downes show community representatives, from left, Shelly Stockdale, David Crooks, Mandi Stewart, Andrea Brown, seated, Ange Wait, Louise Kelly, Damon Minotti and Alisha McLaughlin their idea.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Have a say about your health services

Rural Northwest Health (RNH) is seeking community members to provide a consumer perspective to our health services by becoming members of the Consumer Advisory Committee.

The Consumer Advisory Committee ensures RNH engages with its community in decision making related to strategy, service operations, planning and policy development. This engagement is based on the principle that partnering with consumers improves the safety and quality of health care and leads to improved health outcomes for patients.

It is a very important role to RNH as we look to our consumers to assist us in meeting the needs of the communities that we serve.

The Committee members will provide advocacy and two-way communication and shall establish connection with consumers/community members that reside in the RNH catchment with consideration to diverse people and groups reflecting differences in place, age, gender, culture and socioeconomic status. Experience on similar committees or experience as an active community participant or consumer representative would be highly regarded, and the ability to be able to provide consumer, carer and/or community perspectives, whether through lived, personal or professional experience.

The Committee members will provide advocacy and two-way communication and shall establish connection with consumers/community members that reside in the RNH catchment with consideration to diverse people and groups reﬂecting diﬀerences in place, age, gender, culture and socioeconomic status. Experience on similar committees or experience as an active community participant or consumer representative would be highly regarded, and the ability to be able to provide consumer, carer and/or community perspectives, whether through lived, personal or professional experience.

The Committee members will be supported by RNH, provided a sitting fee for meetings attended, and given opportunities for training and professional development related to the consumer role.

Selection Criteria:

• Have an active interest in health issues aﬀecting the community.

• Be able to represent the diversity of consumers using the health service, including place, age, disability, cultural background, socio-economic status and education to help shape and inform service delivery. Be based within the Yarriambiack Shire.

• Be committed to working collaboratively with RNH, service providers and fellow community members to achieve the objectives of the Consumer Advisory Committee.

• Not be a current employee or Board member of a health service.

• Have a current & valid volunteer Police Check.

• Current volunteer Working with Children Check.

Expressions of Interest addressing selection criteria to be received by Wednesday, June 18.

carolyn.conners@rnh.net.au

Wimmera

Southern Mallee Local Learning and Employment Network, WSMLLEN, has partnered with businesses in the region to deliver industry work-experience programs for a second year.

The Work Experience Industry Taster Program was developed by WSMLLEN to help connect young people in the region with career opportunities.

Run to coincide with last month’s National Careers Week, the initiative aimed to provide hands-on experiences to year-nine students, helping them build confidence and workplace skills while better understanding employment opportunities in the region.

Executive officer Vanessa O’Loughlin said WSMLLEN collaborated with St Brigid’s College in Horsham to co-ordinate student placements and industry engagement, while engaging with businesses to ensure they provided welcoming, safe and informative workplace experiences for students.

“WSMLLEN is proud to lead this program and work alongside the incredible businesses and educators in our region,” she said.

“Together, we’re not only supporting students – we’re future-proofing the Wimmera-Southern Mallee workforce.”

Ms O’Loughlin said results from this year’s program demonstrated the value of early career exploration and industry engagement for young people.

She said pre and post-program surveys showed students’ employability skills, confidence and awareness of career possibilities all growing.

Results included a 21 per cent increase in problem-solving skills and a 17.4 per cent improvement in students’ confidence to ask questions in the workplace, while all students reported better ability to follow instructions and 87 per cent of them left the program thinking about their future career options.

Students overwhelmingly enjoyed meeting new people, trying different

industries and getting a feel for working life, with some expressing a desire to stay longer in their placements.

Businesses taking part in the program this year included: Bunnings Horsham, GWMWater, Horsham Sports and Community Club, Intergrain, KFC Horsham, Landcare, Morrow Motor Group, Ss Michael and John’s Primary School, Up Tempo Café, and West Wimmera Health Service, Nhill.

Ms O’Loughlin thanked the businesses for offering to be part of the program.

“The work experience program is a genuine win-win,” she said.

“It gives businesses a chance to invest in local futures, while giving students real insight into career pathways close to home.”

Businesses interested in participating can contact Sharon Warrick at WSMLLEN via phone on 5310 5975 or email sharon.warrick@llen.com.au.

• The Western Victorian Careers Expo is on July 1 at Wimmera Events Centre, Longerenong. The Weekly Advertiser will publish a preview lift-out on the careers expo in our June 18.

ALL SMILES: Maddison Dempsey and Skyla McClure at Up Tempo cafe.

IN CONTROL: Tate Van Zelst learns the ropes at Intergrain.

HELPING HANDS: Chloe Butsch and Trinity Wilson at Horsham Sports and Community Club.

HANDS-ON: Rory Hudson and Ermanno Mitton at Morrow Motor Group.

Celebration of resilience

The resilience of Pomonal and the wider Grampians region will be on full display this month as the town hosts a new food, wine, craft and music festival.

Titled Take Another Breath –Grampians, the festival will be a two-day celebration on June 20 and 21, offering attendees chances to experience the region’s many offerings.

Included in proceedings will be dishes crafted by local chefs and paired with Grampians wines, with a curated selection to feature goods from more than 50 local producers, winemakers and artisans.

Food trucks from local businesses including Valhalla BBQ, We’re Fired Up Pizza, and The Snack Shack will keep patrons well fed, while regional artists such as Orange Whip, The Doodads, The Double Agents, Riley Mason, and DJ Tom Connor will play live music.

Ararat Rural City Council Mayor Jo Armstrong said the event was a tribute to the strength of the Pomonal community following the 2024-25 bushfires.

Cr Armstrong said it was an excellent chance for the community to come together and celebrate local talent.

“Our rural community has faced several significant challenges recently, including the February and December 2024 bushfires, on top of tough economic times and prolonged drought, yet they remain incredibly resilient,” she said.

“This event is a unique and meaningful chance for both locals and

visitors to come together, show their support, and enjoy the incredible food, wine, and local artists our wonderful region has to offer.”

The festival will start at 6.30pm on Friday, June 20 with a three-course, European-inspired meal at Barney’s Bar and Bistro, featuring regional produce and paired with wines handpicked by Simon Freeman.

The evening will feature live music, and winemakers will be in attendance to share their stories and insights.

On Saturday, June 21 from midday the festival will continue at Barney’s, with live music, food, wine and a community celebration.

Take Another Breath – Grampians is supported by the State Government’s Regional Events Fund, which sponsors events that aim to attract visitors to regional Victoria, boosting the economy, creating jobs, and supporting local businesses. Money raised will be donated to

the Pomonal Markets to encourage sustainable growth in support of local producers, businesses and the community on the journey to recovery.

EAST GRAMPIANS HEALTH SERVICE | Education

EGHS Education Department o ers quali ed Clinical Support sta and a Workplace Trainer (non-clinical) to facilitate a supportive learning environment that supports the training and development of all sta and students.

The Education department provides:

• A variety of learning experiences to facilitate clinical sta to develop knowledge, skills and con dence in the role of Registered Nurse, Enrolled Nurse or Health Care worker

• Supportive student clinical placements for nursing, health care worker, allied health and other industries

• A partnership with Federation TAFE to o er a Diploma of Nursing as a career path for local members of our community

People can find more information and book tickets by visiting ararat.vic.gov.au/events/take-anotherbreath-grampians.

Call to shape sports plan

Ararat Rural City Council is seeking feedback on a new strategy aimed at identifying and addressing the community’s sport and active-recreation needs and priorities.

The council’s 10-year Sport and Active Recreation Strategy will be designed to ensure the council can effectively support and promote health and physical activity in the community.

To assist with developing the strategy, the council is seeking feedback on the key areas of places, participation and partnerships.

Places will focus on facilities that no longer meet the needs of the community and what type of upgraded or new facilities could be required to support Ararat’s growth.

Participation looks at barriers that can prevent people from being more physically active, and how the council can help address barriers, while partnerships examines how the council can work with clubs and organisations to best support sport and activerecreation facilities, services and programs.

Mayor Jo Armstrong said a Sport and Active Recreation Strategy consultation survey was now open and encouraged people to share their thoughts.

“While we provide several sport and recreation facilities and services, we also recognise there are many groups in our community that have an important role in delivering and supporting physical activity opportunities for our residents,” she said.

“This strategy will provide a road map to enable us to best utilise our resources, whilst also working in partnership with local groups to strengthen and contribute significantly to the health, economic and social wellbeing of our community.”

People can view the strategy and give feedback via the Engage Ararat website, engage.ararat.vic.gov.au, until 5pm on June 30.

• Opportunities for non-clinical sta to explore and progress their careers whilst working in a health care setting

• An Education Centre comprising three large education rooms and a practical laboratory that promote face to face, online and practical skill-based learning opportunities

For further information, please call Claire Sladdin, Manager Training and Development, 5352 9404.

ENTERTAINMENT: Regional bands The Double Agents, top, and The Doodads, above, will entertain at the Take Another Breath –Grampians festival.

IT PAYS TO PL AN AHEAD

FLAMIN’ GOOD: Horsham Ag Society’s annual Smoke on the Water event on Sunday celebrated the area’s produce with food trucks and sales, while observing the historical significance of the reserve. Event manager Andrea Cross said the society’s third annual event, with food, fires and music, attracted its best crowd yet. “One of the highlights was the bonfire dances, choreographed by Amy Anselmi. I had someone ask if the dancers came from Melbourne – it was just sensational,” she said. “We had a good response from the food trucks and wine traders as well, and the musicians all worked so well together, it was a real collaborative approach and a well-supported event.” Mrs Cross said the 110th anniversary of the Maydale Reserve and the 80th anniversary of its stables were recognised. “Maydale Reserve’s land was gifted by the May family 110 years ago for the purpose of running the Horsham Show,” she said. “It is a significant moment for us as an organisation, as we are working on a small, and ageing volunteer base. We always welcome more volunteers.” Pictured enjoying the event are, clockwise from above: Aleisha Pye, Marcus Pye and Leah Rudman; Nathan and Jack Priest; attendees at the bonfire; Eliza Obst and Tilley Mathieson; Harriet Nield, Grace Hobbs and Ruby Smith; and 13-year-old Archie Clarke entertains.

Delivering events for youth

Wimmera Health Service is among 110 organisations across Victoria to receive a Youth Fest 2025 grant.

The health service’s Grampians Youth Events St Arnaud group will use its grant to stage ‘Celebrating Youth Fest’ in the town.

The newly-formed group is eager to see activities and initiatives implemented in St Arnaud.

A group spokesperson said after a couple of initial meetings, ideas were flowing and ranged from music workshops, discos and karaoke to learning to program, art workshops and cook-

Into the Woods to hit the stage

Stawell Performing Arts Company

Inc, SPACi, has announced dates for its theatrical production of Stephen Sondheim musical Into the Woods.

The all-ages production weaves together classic fairy tales with a twist, and features performers from across the Stawell region, including participants from Horsham, Ararat, St Arnaud and Warracknabeal.

Director Margaret Arnup said people were still welcome to join the production.

“This production is a fantastic opportunity for community members to get involved, and we still welcome expressions of interest – especially from families and children interested in joining the cast or crew,” she said.

“We’re incredibly excited to bring Into the Woods to life in Stawell. It’s a richly layered musical full of heart, humour and magic.”

Shows are scheduled for 7.30pm on October 24, 25, 31 and November 1, with 1.30pm matinees on October 26 and November 2.

Tickets are not yet on sale. For more information or to be involved in the production, people can contact Arnup on 0418 879 493

ing and life-skills classes. “As we continue to meet and get closer to Youth Fest we will be refining these ideas and consolidating an activity and associated plan,” the spokesperson said.

Birchip Neighbourhood House and Buloke Shire Council will also receive grants.

The State Government is providing grants totalling $220,000 to help young people come together and be involved in activities that matter to them during Youth Fest 2025.

Youth Minister Natalie Suleyman last week announced the grants, which

will allow organisations to design, plan and deliver free or low-cost events during the festival in September.

“Youth Fest is all about delivering more free and low-cost events that give young people and local communities a chance to enjoy themselves,” she said.

“Youth Fest puts young people in the driver’s seat and gives them a platform to show their talents in both metro Melbourne and regional Victoria.”

Youth Fest celebrates young Victorians by funding fun, creative and inclusive events designed and led by

young people themselves. Schools, local councils and community organisations will use funding to deliver events including art exhibitions, cultural festivals, sports days and youth awards.

This year there are 66 events in metropolitan Melbourne and 44 across rural and regional Victoria.

Victorian Youth Fest 2025 will run from Monday, September 1 to Tuesday, September 30.

For more information on this year’s events, people can visit vic.gov.au/ youth-fest-grants.

and furniture, is free to view each day from 10am to

West Wimmera road network under spotlight

West Wimmera Shire Council invites community feedback on its updated draft road management plan, outlining how the inspection, maintenance, and repair of the road network is managed.

Originally adopted in 2004, the plan is reviewed every four years in accordance with legislative requirements following each council election.

The plan includes clearly defined

inspection frequencies and intervention levels for road defects, such as potholes or damaged signage, as well as response times for required works, while aligning with available resources and industry standards.

It also details the responsibilities of both council and road-users under the Road Management Act 2004 and the Road Safety Act 1986.

Council chief executive David Bezuidenhout said the updated plan

helped formalise council’s approach to road management while maintaining flexibility in exceptional circumstances.

“This plan provides a structured and transparent system for road management that can adapt in times of natural disaster, such as fire or flood,” he said.

Mr Bezuidenhout encouraged residents and road-users to review the draft plan and share their views.

“Community feedback is vital in en-

suring the plan reflects local priorities and expectations,” he said.

The draft road management plan is available for viewing online at westwimmera.vic.gov.au and at council’s customer service centres at Kaniva and Edenhope.

Feedback must be submitted by 5pm on July 4.

Comments can be emailed to council@westwimmera.vic.gov.au.

Business workshop

St Arnaud businesses can apply for money to improve the look of their shopfronts through a Northern Grampians Shire Council program.

Following the success of a pilot in Stawell last year, the council’s shopfront improvement program will start in St Arnaud this week.

Mayor Karen Hyslop said Main Street in Stawell looked more vibrant following the program’s introduction and she looked forward to seeing the results in St Arnaud.

“Six businesses in St Arnaud will be selected to participate based on their needs and desire for improvement,” she said.

“Participants can receive help with professionally designed business branding, updated signs, visual merchandising for window displays and other general improvements, depending on their situation.

“Any business owners with shopfronts in St Arnaud’s retail precinct who are interested in improving the presentation of their business are invited to make an expression of interest.”

Pop Creative Collective will consult with the successful applicants, helping them develop and implement a beautification plan.

To kickstart the program, representatives of all St Arnaud businesses can attend a visual merchandising workshop today.

The workshop will be in the Perry Room, St Arnaud Town Hall, from 5.30pm to 7pm.

“Pop Creative Collective will run the workshop, which will include tips and tricks to help business owners and staff visually improve the look and feel of their businesses,” Cr Hyslop said.

“Following the workshop, we will open up expressions of interest to participate in the Shopfront Improvement Program.”

The workshop is open to all St Arnaud businesses, however the shopfront improvement program is restricted to businesses in Napier Street and adjoining side streets.

The visual merchandising workshop is free of charge, but bookings are essential. Tickets are available via www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ visual-merchandising-workshopwith-pop-creative-collective-tickets1359663182179?aff=oddtdtcreator.

The council also offers a small business support program, providing business owners with access to experienced mentors. People can visit www.ngshire.vic.gov.au for more information or to book.

LONG VIEW: Horsham Regional Art Gallery director Lauren Larkins is pictured in the exhibit ‘View from here: Highlights from the National Gallery collection’, which features works by artists such as Eugene von Guerard, Nicholas Chevalier, Thomas Clark, Arthur Streeton, Sidney Nolan, Arthur Boyd and John Olsen. On long-term loan from the National Gallery of Australia, with support from the Australian government as part of Sharing the National Collection, the exhibit, featuring key paintings, works on paper, artist’s books

4pm.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

• 85+ Exhibitors

• Longerenong College Site Tours

• Skillinvest Apprenticeship Drop-In-Centre

• Federation University Try-A Trade Interactive Zone

• Try VET Centre

• Industrial Zone

• Vocational Information Session (VIS)

• Tertiary Information Session (TIS) Roadshow and Presentation

• Free Bus Travel departs at 10am from YMCA carpark, Hamilton Street, Horsham. Returns at 12.30pm

Shopping Spree Friday, June 13, 2025

Our vision is to create a space that offers a unique hospitality pathway experience, rich in food education and knowledge. Led by wholefoods champion Bec Dunlop, we’re serving up more than just fresh, local meals. We’re building skills, setting goals, and breaking barriers — all while making delicious food the star of the show.

Coffee: Boutique brews by Port Fairy Coffee Roasters — and get ready for our own Urquhart Blend in 2025!

Eat: Colourful, nourishing wholefood meals made with love and local produce Shop: Explore our evolving Produce Store with Aussie-grown ‘Scoop, Weigh & Pay’ pantry goods

Look for our COFFEE • EAT • SHOP ﬂags out front and come say hi! Grab a snack, lunch, or your morning coffee — dine in or grab’n’go.

Two Course Lunch ~ Special ~

$19.90 non-members

$18 members

Main & Dessert 11.30am to 2pm

$50,000 Major Community Project

Christian Emergency Food Centre Vehicle

Horsham’s Christian Emergency Food Centre volunteers have purchased and customised a van, funded by a Horsham Sports and Community Club communityvoted grant, for food pick-ups and deliveries.

Previously relying on volunteers’ own vehicles, manager John Spehr said the van was much better-suited to the food centre’s requirements.

Christian Emergency Food Centre was announced the winner of the grant after almost 650 Horsham Sports and Community Club members voted it their preferred recipient.

Pictured is Christian Emergency Food Centre volunteers manager John Spehr, committee chair Dennis May and client assessment manager Bev Miatke with Horsham Sports and Community Club’s assistant manager Justin Wissell, board member Greg Schultz and manager Daniel Hounsell.

On June 22, 2025, Horsham Sports & Community Club will be giving away a total of 104 grants worth $146,000 to our community.

HSCC – “Working for the community with pride”

Over $3.133 Million has been donated to local communities in cash sponsorship since the club’s inception

We are proud to be operating as a business in Horsham and the Wimmera for over 35 years.

We always welcome the opportunity to work with new and existing clients.

Horsham is a great community to live and work in.

We love working with our clients from all walks of life –business or personal.

We are proud to sponsor many community groups including the Horsham Arts Council, Wimmera Mallee Football Umpires Association & the Wesley Performing Arts Centre, to name a few.

It is wonderful to see Horsham expanding the services and facilities it offers to the community.

info@capitis.com.au www.capitis.com.au

FAVOURITE BBQ

Horsham Betta Home Living 156 Firebrace Street. Horsham. Ph: 03 5381 2207

Participating Businesses

Allan and Trev’s Workwear

Bad Boy Burger Co.

Betta Home Living Horsham

BJ’s Furniture & Bedding

Capitis Accounting

Cooks of Horsham

D’Coco Hair Studio

DMD Horsham

Drift 83

Emma Kealy Member For Lowan

Emmetts Horsham

Forty Winks

Gold Star Self Storage

Harvey Norman Horsham

Honey’s Hairstyling

Horsham Cyclery

Horsham Family Footwear

Horsham Lanes and Games

Horsham Motor Co

Horsham RSL

Horsham Sports & Community Club

Horsham Town Hall

Horsham Undercover

Intersport Horsham

JD’s Fruit and Veg

KLM Nursery

Latus Jewellers

Mackays Family Jewellers

McLardy McShane Horsham

MTParts

Norton Motor Group

Nu life Health Foods

Poolwerx & Living Horsham

Terry White Chemmart

The Makers Gallery

Total Tools Horsham

Toyworld Horsham

WebbCon Marine

Wimmera Bearings

Wimmera Dry Cleaners

Wimmera Food Collective

Wimmera Meat Market

Wimmera Outdoors

Winiam Community Hall Inc.,

Kate Pilgrim:

“We are promised $1000 to replace the shelves in our 2-door fridge, the plastic coating has perished and is wearing off. It no longer meets current food safety standards.

“We have a very active hall, hosting events for birthday parties, functions for our community such as our Christmas Tree, funeral catering, exercise classes and post-bushﬁre functions.

“It was incredibly easy to apply for a grant. You just have to get a quote for what you need, have an ABN number, have your ﬁnancials ready and get organised to create a wishlist.

“We will 100% apply again, these organisations are fantastic for helping us out.”

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.

Join the Dots

What creature is this? Find out by joining the dots.

Auspac Media

Crossword Solutions

On This Day

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: June 9, 2005 –Des Lardner dressed as an apple for the official opening of his Dimboola pharmacy. He is pictured with 3WM announcer Hayden Miller, Guardian Pharmacies retail development manager Robyn Edwards, Guardian Pharmacies national manager Peter Tilley and state manager Alistair Sherman.

10 years ago: June 10, 2015

Long-time Warracknabeal businessman Ben Bentley and Nhill community advocate Margaret Millington won recognition in the Queen’s Birthday honours, receiving Medals of the Order of Australia in the General Division, OAMs. Mr Bentley, then 82, was founder, director and trustee of The Bentley Group, and had been in business for 62 years. He was also a board and life member of disability service provider Woodbine. Mrs Millington was recognised for her service to the community, particularly in refugee support and with social welfare organisations. She campaigned for the implementation of Real Time Monitoring of Pharmaceuticals and had been a member of Wimmera Drug Action Task Force.

Five years ago: June 10, 2020

Horsham’s Nourish’d Eatery owner Stewart Neighbour launched Big Boy Burger Co amid COVID-19 lockdowns. A chef for about 13 years, Mr Neighbour had been considering growing his business portfolio, with lockdowns and restrictions pushing him into starting the delivery-only business.

One year ago: June 12, 2024

Ararat Library was set to undergo a major interior upgrade, pending the approval of Ararat Rural City’s 2024-25 draft budget. The project proposed increased mobile shelving, quiet spaces, new flooring, public-use computers, and improved exterior signage.

TaKe a BreaK

yOur lucKy sTars

FOR THE WEEK JUNE 15 TO JUNE 21

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 3, 3, 2, 1

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 26, 30, 33

1. Born on this day in 1910 and dying in 1997, was which French naval officer, oceanographer, filmmaker and author? He co-invented the first successful opencircuit self-contained underwater breathing apparatus, SCUBA, called the aqua-lung, which assisted him in producing some of the first underwater documentaries.

2. What type of legal defence is derived from the Latin word meaning ‘elsewhere’?

3. Often added to dishes for saltiness, what is an anchovy –a nut, a vegetable or a fish?

4. What cooking technique involves quickly submerging food in boiling water, then transferring it to ice-cold water to stop the cooking process?

5. Actor Timothy Dalton had his ‘licence to kill’ – how many Bond films did he headline?

6. Which iconic Australian landmark is the world’s largest war memorial?

7. History records that flutes have been used as a musical instrument for many years. It is true or false that they date back 42,000 years?

8. What was first made in France in response to a challenge by Emperor Napoleon III to create something for the armed forces and lower classes that involved beef tallow?

9. Who was Australia’s first Aboriginal senator?

10. Who is the quote, ‘An eye for an eye will leave the whole world blind’ attributed to?

The Living Daylights in 1978 and Licence to Kill in 1989. 6. The Great Ocean Road. 7. True. Scientists have dated fragments of ancient flutes. 8. Margarine. Beef tallow was mixed with skimmed milk by French chemist and inventor Hippolyte Mége-Mouriés to create oleomargarine. 9. Neville Bonner. 10. Mahatma Gandi. Although it does align with his philosophy of pacifism, ‘ … if there is serious injury, you are to take life for life, an eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand … is traced to the Exodus 21:23-25. Further to that, similar wording can be found in the longest, best-organised and best-preserved legal text from the ancient world, the Code of Hammurabi, created between 1755 and 1750 BCE in Babylon.

Answers: 1. Jacques Cousteau. 2. Alibi. 3. A fish. 4. Blanching. 5. Two.

Getting in touch with The

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

This week promises financial progress with a touch of luck in money matters. People you already know may provide helpful support. Look forward to exciting surprises in your romantic life.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 3, 2, 6, 5

Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 25, 40, 44, 45

Travel plans may not go as expected, but your efforts will still lead to success. Someone you were unsure about may prove their worth.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 5, 6

Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 25, 36, 39, 3

This is a favourable period for romance and new friendships. Avoid irritating individuals to maintain peace. Keep an eye out for promising business opportunities.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 2, 1

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 8, 33

Sudden travel arrangements might strain your love life, but finances and business matters should improve. Look for great bargains.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Mauve

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 2, 3

Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 3, 36, 39, 5

Tact and diplomacy will take you far this week. Avoid conﬂicts by steering clear of matters that don’t concern you. Financial ease is on the horizon.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 2, 1, 3, 5

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 40, 22

If approached correctly, people in positions to assist you may offer their help. To prevent family conﬂicts, avoid being overly critical of loved ones.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 9, 8

Lotto Numbers: 8, 12, 5, 16, 20, 33

New friendships may result in big changes. Keep an eye on your belongings –this isn’t the best time to lend or borrow.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 2, 1, 3, 6

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 40, 33

Happier times are ahead, with more personal attention coming your way. Romance looks promising, but take it slow with new relationships, as adjustments may be needed.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1, 5, 9, 6

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 4, 20, 29

Your ideas may not resonate with others, so consider whether to share them. Meeting new people could provide unexpected benefits.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 9, 5

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 40, 33

Seek expert advice if starting a new business venture. If you’ve been holding back, now’s the time to speak and express your ideas.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 6, 9

Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 26, 29, 8, 7

Worrying about unlikely outcomes won’t help. A positive attitude will produce better results, especially in love and new personal interests.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 6, 5

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 45, 40, 22

Expect a pleasant surprise in your love life. Innovative ideas could become highly profitable, with a touch of luck from someone born in September.

• Hydraulic QC12Y Swing Beam Shear

• Hydraulic WC67Y Brake Press

• Steel Master 12T Hydraulic Punch/Shear

• Steel Master SM26120 Industrial Lathe

• Hydraulic Pipe Bender RMD M175CE

• Hydraulic Powerpack with Rotator

• Advanced Robotic Smart 4000 Plasma Cutter

• Thermal Dynamics Plasma Cutter

• 2 x Hafco Bandsaws + Rolling Table

• Lincoln Electric 400SP MIG Welder

• Various WIA MIG Welders

• Various Miller MIG Welders

• Miller AC/DC TIG Welder

• ESAB AC/DC TIG Welder

• Various Milwaukee Power Tools

• Various Other Brand Power Tools

• Portable Office w/ Stairs & Legs

• 6 x Monorail with Winch/Pulley

• Various Steel Racks

• Pallet Racking

• Various Trailer Parts

• Various Lengths RHS Tubing

• Various Lengths Square Tubing

• Various Dimension Steel Sheet

• Various Lengths/Sizes Pipe

Competition

Chinese Jaecoo J8 mid-sized SUV ready to take on Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-60

Jaecoo launched its J8 mid-sized SUV into the Australian market last week, a challenger to the Hyundai Santa Fe and Mazda CX60, priced from $49,990 driveaway.

The generously equipped Jaecoo J8 joins the J7 in showrooms with what the Chinese importer says are ‘features and technologies typically reserved for premium vehicles’.

Characterised by the brand’s signature waterfall grille, projector style LED headlights, and signature rear light bar, the J8 rides on 20-inch machine-finished alloy wheels – with a matching spare wheel – and draws

power from a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 183kW-385Nm.

Front and all-wheel drive configurations are available, both paired with an eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

Jaecoo lists fuel consumption averages at 8.3 litres per 100 kilometres in two-wheel drive form and 8.6 litres per 100 kilometres when optioning all-wheel drive.

Inside, the cabin of the Jaecoo J8 is upholstered in synthetic leather, its dashboard dominated by dual 12.3inch instrumentation and infotainment displays.

Infotainment highlights include a

ARARAT FORD

14-speaker surround sound system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, proprietary satellite navigation, voice control, 360-degree camera technology, and selectable LED ambient cabin lighting.

Entry-level Track variants, priced from $49,990 drive-away, further add heated and ventilated front seating with massage function, a powered tailgate, and second-row air-conditioning controls.

Stepping up to the all-wheel drive Ridge, from $54,990 drive-away, customers will find adaptive damping, automatic parking function, heated and ventilated second-row seats, LED ambient cabin lighting, an in-built fra-

grance dispenser, rear privacy glass, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and suede headlining in black.

Paint colour choices including arctic white, carbon black, iridium silver, and ocean blue.

Safety equipment highlights include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, driver monitoring, emergency lane keeping, lane departure prevention, tyre pressure monitoring, and eight airbags.

The flagship Ridge variant adds second row side airbags to the list for a total of 10.

As is the case with the J7, the Jaecoo J8 is warranted for eight years and

unlimited kilometres, which includes up to eight years roadside assistance when the vehicle is maintained through the Jaecoo service network. Jaecoo Australia chief commercial officer Roy Munoz said the company was delighted to launch the J8 to add to the Jaecoo brand line-up.

“This model combines premium design, refined performance and advanced technology, and we feel it is perfectly suited to the Australian lifestyle with both two and all-wheel drive capability, enabling customers to enjoy everything from city commutes to weekend getaways, all with comfort, confidence, and style,” he said. – Matt Brogan

SUV sales dominate

May

new car sales data showed a total of 105,285 vehicles were delivered nationally, a decrease of 5814 vehicles, or 5.2 per cent on the same time last year, for an average decrease of 216.9 new vehicle sales per day.

Across the month’s 26.8 selling days, VFACTS figures noted a 33.3 per cent decline in passenger vehicle sales, down 7086 units year-over-year to 14,166, a 7.2 per cent decrease in light commercial vehicle sales, down 1835 units year-over-year to 23,493, and a 17.9 per cent downturn in heavy commercial vehicle sales, down 855 units year-over-year to 3927, though SUV sales rose 6.6 per cent, up 3962 units year-over-year to 63,699 across the same period.

SUV sales remain the dominant force in the Australian market, growing to take a 60.4 per cent share of all new vehicle sales in the month of May, compared with 55.8 per cent in May 2024.

Rightly, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, FCAI, said the figure underlined the status of the SUV as the preferred vehicle

choice for Australian buyers. Toyota remained the market leader in May, leading second-placed Ford by a margin of 15,112 vehicles, or 14.4 market share points.

Toyota sold a total of 23,576 vehicles during the month of May, ahead of Ford with 8464 units, Mazda with 7845 units, Kia with 6903 units, and Hyundai with 6708 units.

The Toyota HiLux was Australia’s top-selling vehicle for the month with sales of 4952 units.

As one of four Toyota models in the top 10, the HiLux topped the Ford Ranger with 4761 unit sales, Toyota RAV4, 4003, Toyota LandCruiser, 3046, Toyota LandCruiser Prado, 2732, Isuzu D-Max, 2643, Ford Everest, 2369, Mazda CX-5, 2264, Hyundai Kona, 1951, and Hyundai Tucson, 1794.

FCAI data showed sales of batteryelectric vehicles were down to 5925 units from 8974 at this time last year, down 34 per cent, while plug-in hybrid electric vehicle sales were up – buoyed from recent FBT incentives – to 3081 units from 1416, up 117.6 per cent.

Hybrid electric vehicle sales remain

steady with 17,089 units sold against last May’s 16,197 sales, up 5.5 per cent, while petrol and diesel sales dropped slightly, down 9.0 and 1.1 per cent respectively to 41,147 and 34,155 units.

Looking across the regions, all states and territories were down when viewed against figures achieved in May of 2024.

The Australian Capital Territory fell 15.5 per cent to 1413 new vehicle sales, New South Wales 2.9 per cent to 32,177 units, the Northern Territory 12.8 per cent to 871 units, Queensland 2.6 per cent to 22,924 units, South Australia 12.1 per cent to 6596 units, Tasmania 14.8 per cent to 1549 units,

Victoria 4.7 per cent to 28671 units, and Western Australia 10.1 per cent to 11,084 units.

FCAI chief executive Tony Weber said while down 5.2 per cent compared to the same month in 2024, the results reflected a market that remained resilient and competitive by historic standards.

“The fundamentals of the market remain robust, with strong competition and consumer interest across a range of vehicle types,” he said.

Mr Weber’s comments came at the same time the FCAI announced it had joined with the European Australian Business Council and other Australian peak organisations in calling for

a conclusion to a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with the European Union.

Mr Weber said such an agreement could spell the end of the outdated luxury car tax and the elimination of a five per cent tariff imposed on vehicles from the European Union.

“Australia’s automotive sector strongly encourages all participants to deliver a trade outcome that is futurefocused rather than prolonging outdated and inefficient policy arrangements, and one that allows Australians to share in world-leading mobility, safety and environmental technologies at the lowest possible prices,” he said. – Matt Brogan

NUMBER ONE: The Toyota HiLux was Australia’s top-selling vehicle for the month with sales of 4952 units.

Volkswagen Tayron arrival locked in

Volkswagen has released further details of its Tayron seven-seat SUV, the model set to slot between the Tiguan and Touareg as a replacement for the Tiguan Allspace when it arrives Down Under in September.

Offering what Volkswagen says is a premium cabin design – with the flexibility of five or seven-seat configurations – high quality materials, and the latest infotainment and safety technology inclusions, the Tayron will be offered in model grades familiar elsewhere in the VW SUV family, beginning with the 110TSI Life.

Delivering 110kW-250Nm, the front-wheel drive Tayron 110TSI Life seven-seater will feature as standard a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, offer a braked towing capacity of 1800kg, sport 18-inch Bologna alloy wheels, and arrives equipped with keyless entry and ignition, a powered tailgate, 360-degree camera system, digital instrumentation, and a 12.9inch infotainment array with native sat nav, wireless app connect, and DAB+ digital radio reception.

Volkswagen’s Travel Assist technology – incorporating adaptive cruise control and lane assist for semi-autonomous and stop-and-go driving –front assist with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring, and side assist with rear traffic alert is also standard.

The technologies join standard side exit warning, front cross-traffic assist, oncoming vehicle braking, park assist plus with semi-autonomous steering and throttle-braking to park, nine airbags including centre and dynamic road sign assist.

The Life grade is also offered in 150TSI guise, bringing a five-seat configuration to the mix to combine up to 885 litres of cargo space with ‘the practicality and user comfort of an SUV bodystyle’.

In addition to more power, the variant further adds 4Motion all-wheel drive and an increased braked towing capacity of 2500kg.

Next on the list is the seven-seat Tayron 150TSI Elegance.

The mid-tier offering provides what Volkswagen says is an ‘extra dose of style’, building on the specification of the Life grades with 19-inch Catania alloy wheels, leather-appointed upholstery, front ‘ergoActive’ seats with power adjustment, heating, ventilation, memory and massage, heated outer second row seats, heated steering wheel, LED Plus headlights with illuminated grille strip, LED taillights with illuminated centre strip, chrome roof rails and trim, and rear privacy glass.

Above the Elegance is the Tayron

R-Line 195TSI, featuring ‘Golf GTI levels of performance and handling’ and a long list of sporty features.

These include 20-inch Leed alloy wheels, R-Line interior and exterior styling, progressive steering, 15-inch infotainment touchscreen, head-up display, harman-kardon premium audio, HD Matrix LED headlights, dynamic light assist, and dynamic indicators at the rear.

Power is increased to 195kW and torque to 400Nm, channelled to the road via 4Motion all-wheel drive for a claimed zero to 100kmh time of 6.1 seconds.

Several option bundles are available

alongside the choice of six exterior paint colours: pure white, oyster silver metallic, dolphin grey metallic, night shade blue metallic, grenadilla black metallic, and ultra violet premium metallic.

Volkswagen Australia head of passenger vehicles Arjun Nidigallu said continuing the dual-pronged ‘premium and value’ focus of its all-new, third-generation Tiguan stablemate, while further dialling up the space and practicality credentials, the all-new Tayron provided customers a large SUV that boasts both luxury specifications and outstanding customer value.

“Whether your priorities revolve around room for the family, making the most of the luggage space, towing a trailer over the long weekend, or enjoying a refined, efficient, wellequipped and dynamically capable car for daily driving, the Tayron has all bases confidently covered,” he said.

“With the adaptive chassis control technology, DCC Pro, the latest MQB Evo platform, and 4Motion all-wheel drive, the 150TSI and 195TSI Tayrons are unsurpassed in the mainstream large SUV segment for premium appeal, performance and driving dynamics.”

Further details, including pricing will be announced closer to the Volkswagen Tayron’s September arrival.

– Matt Brogan

DELIVERING: Details firm for Volkswagen’s Tayron seven-seat SUV, arriving in Australia from September.

Classifieds

WOOD, Karen Elizabeth

STURROCK (nee Bunge), Alys M of Warracknabeal, on June 5, 2025

Loved wife of Wally (dec).

Loved mother of Daryl, Janet, Graeme, Neil, Peter and a loved mother-inlaw, grandmother and great grandmother to their families.

WOOD, Karen Elizabeth

Passed away at home surrounded by her loving husband and children on June 2, 2025 aged 63 years.

Dearly loved wife of Rob.

Loving mother and mother in law of Lauren & Greg; Elly; John & Olivia; Greta & Jez.

Adored Nanny K to Blakely and Hudson.

Cherished daughter to Ron (dec) & Val Witney.

I’m going to make everything around me beautiful –that will be my life.

WOOD, (nee Witney)

Karen Elizabeth

26.10.1961 - 2.6.2025

Not enough words to express our love.

Not enough words to express our sadness.

Not enough time to say goodbye.

Beloved second daughter of Val and Ron (dec).

Loved and adored sister of Robyn, Paul (dec), Jennifer and Lynette.

Special sister-in-law of Phil, gracious and caring aunty of Elise, Aaron, Darcy, Aslyn, Leroy and Mitch and great aunty to Oliver.

‘A sister is a gift to the heart, a friend to the spirit, a golden thread to the meaning of life.’

Karen Elizabeth Wood will be laid to rest at a private graveside service. Family and friends will be invited to celebrate the life of Karen at a later date.

Daughter

MOLONEY, Leo

16.06.2015 - 16.06.2025

My memory misses you. It talks about you all the time. Love Beryl

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

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

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

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

Budgies, assorted colours $10 each Ph 0417533579

Budgies , pastel and standards $10 each Ph 0428010996 Horsham

Chihuahua puppies, last litter, one girl and two boys available, born on 20/01/25, grey/white male microchip# 953010006886663

Grey male microchip# 953010006886703

Black female microchip# 953010006886699, source MB168010, microchipped and first vaccination, ready to go Ph 0406048840

For sale male kelpie dog , three years old, bobtail, source# EE232038, microchip# 985141006234860 Ph 0427861437

STURROCK

(nee Bunge)

The funeral of Mrs Alys M Sturrock will leave the Lutheran Church Warracknabeal on Monday, June 16, 2025 after a service commencing at 11am for the Warracknabeal Lawn Cemetery.

W.B. Gardiner & Son Funeral Directors Warracknabeal 0407 340 064

Purebred black faced Dorper, rams and ewes, rams 2yrs old, ewes 9months old, pic# 3HSDC083 Ph Liz 0419664345

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

Roosters, ducks and guinea fowl wanted to buy Ph 0427361940

Very pretty & young budgies, assorted colours, ready to go $10 each Ph 0423182267

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

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

$58,000 Ph 0448099981

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

$14,500 Ph 0407147996

(All

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

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

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

Restored Antique cast iron/timber garden benches

$250 each Ph 53522691

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

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

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

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

REDUCED

Ascot pop-top, immac cond, shedded, low kms, new full annexe, R33763 $18,500 Ph Ray 0413445347 REDUCED

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

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

death notices

caravans

caravans Antiques

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

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

Tradesman trailer, off road

$2900 Ph 0407285097

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

23 PVC pipes, 39” long x 6.25” diameter, ideal planters $150 for the lot or $5 each 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

Craftsmen ZTS700 ride-on zero-turn mower, good condition, 21 hp engine, reconditioned spindle and deck, many hours left in this machine $2850 Ph Eddy 0428922335

Galvanised trailer , 5x5

$800 Ph 53522691

Gold and opal ring, approx 80yrs old, current valuation

$4500 would like $2500 Ph 0458014560

Good Clean Faber

Beans, 10 tonne ready to sow, graded and treated with cruiser insecticide

$650 a tonne plus Gst Ph 0429836055

Hot potato mobile van , bought new 2018, never used $980 ono Ph 0432544164

J Berends pasture harrows 8’ $400 Ph 0429309491

1997 Hercules Tipper

$76,000 plus Gst Ph 0428386295

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

Expression of interest, for sale, international 511 28 row trash floats combine, 211 33 tyne scarifier, 18 disc Connor-Shea hyd lift 4 fold, B45 baler working order, Lowan round bale carrier Ph 0407911884 evenings

New Holland T8 360, 2250 hours, suit new buyer, power shift, 50km box, heavy axel model, 1 owner/operator, always serviced, excellent all round, immaculate condition, wired for trimble auto steer, UHF, quick hitch linkage, duals, new fan belts, ad blue switched off, front suspension & cab suspension, 4 remotes, always shedded, used for light work only, reg until 19/6/25, can provide 12 months extra if req, $210,000 + gst, $231,000 inc gst Ph0418504408

Camping Equipment, including as new Yamaha 2KVa inverter generator never used, aqua cube shower, porta potty, Komodo pantry, and clothesline

$2500 Ph 0458683879

CCE cage on wheels

6x4 well made $400, 500 gallon ex fuel tank $100, Coolgardie safe $100, Ute crate, 6x4 tub tight $50, Bailey extension ladder 5.3 extends to 6.3 $500, leith grain measuring sheep feeder $1000, new Holland Mower GC with parts, best offer Ph 0429857207

Configura twin motor tilt recliner lift chair, beige vinyl, model S15444, $2500ono, Royale Medical over bed tilting split table $200ono Ph 0428810806 Horsham

Slow juicer, Kuvings, very good condition, no further use $295 Ph 0408823136

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

Wall unit sliding door & shelves $30, coffee table with tiled top $25, timber corner unit $15, outdoor setting with 4 chairs & laminex oval table $80 Ph 0409967815 Horsham

3.7 m boat and cover, QL624, an aussie made trailer P83061, Yamaha 15 HP motor, near new $4000 Ph 53582560

3.7 savage aluminium boat , UM198, 25 HP

Mercury forward steer reyco trailer, b15834 electric motor and lawrence fish finder $2600 Ph 0428523919

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

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

REDUCED 1 Bridgestone Turanza Tyre , R35 55 R17, done 10,000kms $30 Ph0428504558

REDUCED 4KW 240V

Generator , gauges and trolley $550 Ph 0428504558

Round bale hay ring $350 Ph 0429200566

Tradies Trailer enclosed, containing shelving storage, power points $680 ono Ph 0432544164

Jacobean lounge suit , perfect condition, make an offer under $400 Ph 0409582498

Round dining table with 4 velvet chairs $340 Ph 53824788

The Weekly Advertiser welcomes your advertising. We are required strictly by law to include specific information on some items when publishing your advertisement. A snapshot of your obligations are as follows: BOATSAll advertisements for boats must include: • Hull number or registration number of the boat If a trailer is included with the boat, the advertisement must also include: • Registration number or chassis number of the trailer.

Aspire wheelchair , as new condition, barely used once a day for 3 months, extremely comfortable, cost $3500 from Action AIDS, reduced price $950 Ph 0427562913 Horsham

Freedom forearm walker

$250, wheelchair $150 Ph 0437600095

ICare IC333 electric

Homecare bed, in very good condition, king single, extra mattress and gel overlay

$2500 cash Ph 0428313173

Comet Ultra Mobility Scooter, excellent condition, new batteries, front & rear basket $2250 Ph 0427542512

Pegasus mobility scooter, excellent condition, includes, shade canopy, front basket & rear carrier $3500 Ph 0408826727

Shoprider Allrounder mobility scooter, 2yrs old, EC, hard canopy, weather proof fittings $4200 Ph 0419633821 Dimboola

Gun mobility scooter, EC, shade canopy, front basket, rear carrier, inspections welcome $4000 Ph 0438354414

2020 Harley Low Rider 107, FXLR 1745 cc, heaps of extras, EC, rego 3 monthly basis, 27,270 kms, 2K4ZJ $20,000 Ph 0409590596

BMW K1200 RS , 2010 model, comes with panniers, top box, reg til Aug, RW, BY136 $4800ono Ph 0419508310 Stawell area

BMW R1100 RT, EC, reg till 5/25, 123k kms, YD865 $4600 Ph 0409954491

REDUCED BMW R1200RT Solo, 2007, Ex SA Police, GO, HGR, EWS, CC, RW cond, unregistered, service manuals $3000 Ph 0428154961

Hilux toyota tray, excellent condition with push on tarp $1200 Ph 0484355030

1946 Anglia Ford Ute , engine fully rebuilt $700 Ph 0492975751

1989 Toyota Camry Sedan 2 litre EFI, red, unregistered, vin# 6T153SV2109103569, 198,000 kms $500 Ph Peter 53525927 leave message

1990 Nissan Patrol GQ 4.2petrol, 12months rego, 654000km, new tyres, JN1OWGY6OA0020221, 1YI5EW $10,000 neg Ph 0428501109

1994 Ford ED Futura Auto

4.0i , drives strong, great duco, no RWC or rego $5500 Ph 0409423541

2001 Fairlane Ghia , AU11 series, meteorite colour, QFQ527 $3250 Ph53503220

Invacare

Top

2005 SP Mazda 3 Hatch, 5 speed manual, power steering & aircon, black in colour, 1YD6TE, 193000km, RWC, $4500, Ph 0423335246

2012 Ford Territory , 173,000kms 1GK5WZ $8000 inc roadworthy Ph 0492975751

2013 Ford Mondeo Zetec hatch , auto, economical turbo diesel, silver colour, full service history, registered June 25, RWC, 317,000km, 1AG2PW $5500ono Ph 0428928248

Honda Civic, 1994, great condition with RWC, automatic & aircon, colour black, Vtech motor, vin

JHME6548005203141

$10,000 Ph 0428501109

Peugeot 407 HDI , beautifully cared for car, $8000 Ph 0484355030

REDUCED 75 series

Toyota Landcruiser ute, 4.2l diesel, dual tanks, dual batteries, comes with quality rooftop camper, TJM pro diff lockers front/back, airbagman suspension fitted, 5 new tyres, winch, Engel fridge and slide, lots of accessories, very well looked after, RWF984 $18,888 ono Ph 0487700251

Mini Cooper S, 2016, 5 door hatch, 2.0L, 6speed auto, near new condition, 51,900kms AHB987 $29,900 Ph 0428320108 Horsham

Toyota Hilux 2022, 4 wheel drive, auto, diesel, new tyres, warranty, immaculate condition, 48,747kms, 1NV4FU $42,390 plus Gst Ph 0427858264

Private Sale Executive, 4 bed, 2 bath, large, spacious home, in popular Horsham West, a short stroll to river, fully renovated to a quality, not a budget, contact owner Lisa 0422506969 to view

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June 11th

Recently three people lost their lives following a multi vehicle collision on the Western Highway north of Ararat. Three people going about their business, in an instant had their lives cut short, leaving loved ones in a world of grief and pain. How to grapple with such a devasting loss? The fragility of life is brought home to us. Life is full of the unexpected. In all the unknowns of life, where can we find surety?

Jesus, who Himself met an untimely death on a cross, told us that in this world we would have trouble. But He added, do not despair for “I have overcome the world” (John 16:33.) A Christian can look beyond this life to an eternal life because God raised Jesus from the dead. That Jesus lives is the cornerstone of Christianity. Jesus said, “Whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die” (John 11:26.)

Horatio Spafford was an American lawyer. He suffered an unbelievable succession of tragedies, losing an infant son to scarlet fever, his fortune almost wiped out in the Chicago fires of 1873 and finally losing his four daughters in a shipping accident in the Atlantic when his family was travelling from New York to London.

Only his wife survived. Horatio travelled by ship to join his wife in London. As he passed the spot where the ship had gone down he wrote a powerful hymn of praise for the assurance given by Jesus. So while we go through the trials and uncertainties of life we have hope. We can look beyond this life to eternal life with Jesus Christ. What a gift He gives to those willing to accept His offer. If you haven’t met the risen Christ and accepted His gift of eternal life, please find a Church to help you do so. Jennifer Pearson - City Heart Church of Christ, Stawell.

Approx 20 hrs per week.

We are looking for a long term, reliable, fast learner with a forklift & manual car licence to join our team.

This job will entail stocking of shelves, stock rotation, some heavy lifting involved, processing orders & deliveries, customer service, cleaning.

Approx 20 hours per week, more hours available to the right person.

Knowledge of fruit & veg is an advantage.

Please forward resumes to jkgriffiths71@gmail.com or drop in store at 40 Urquhart St, Horsham

be someone making a difference for people in your community

See our website for further information Employment Opportunities

**Attractive salary packaging in addition to salary**

We are seeking committed and passionate people who are ready for exciting and rewarding careers in our growing community health organisation

Community Health Nurse

22.8 hours per week

$55.98 per hour

Contact: Kristy Price

Closing: 12pm Monday 30 June 2025

To download a position description and key selection criteria form visit our website: gch.org.au

For further information email employment@gch.org.au or call contact person on 5358 7400

St Brigid’s College is a leading co-educational Year 7-12 Catholic College located in Horsham in the heart of the Wimmera.

Applications are invited from suitably experienced persons for:

St Brigid’s College is seeking a skilled and forward-thinking Business Manager to oversee the College’s ﬁnancial, operational, and compliance functions. Reporting directly to the Principal, and as an integral member of the College Leadership Team, this full-time role plays a vital part in strategic planning, ﬁnancial stewardship, risk management, and resource development.

OFFICE MANAGER

Applications are invited for the position of Office Manager located in Nhill. This position is flexible in nature. Days and times can vary to suit the applicant. Current hours are approximately 18-22 hours per week.

Responsibilities include:

• Accounts payable and receivable

• BAS preparation and submission

• Weekly payroll for 10-15 employees

• Bank reconciliation

• Administration relating to both farming and heavy haulage.

The successful applicant will possess the following:

• Excellent time management and organisational skills.

• The ability to deal with issues of a confidential and sensitive nature.

$29.71 per hour

Positions available at Wimmera Laundry Services

Multiple positions needed between 10 and 38 hours per week

Please email your details to accounts@regionallaundryservices.com.au

Applications close: Friday 4 July 2025

The successful applicants must be willing to support the Catholic ethos and abide by the Child Safe policies of our College.

Information regarding role descriptions can be obtained from the College website: www.stbc.vic.edu.au/about/work-with-us

Written applications together with Curriculum Vitae and names of three referees should be forwarded to: principal@stbc.vic.edu.au

The Principal St Brigid’s College PO Box 542, Horsham VIC 3402

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to cooperate with employees, suppliers and customers.

• Self-motivation and the ability to work without supervision.

• Prior experience with accounting programs and a basic knowledge of farming and/or heavy haulage administration operations is preferred but not essential.

An hourly rate to be offered based on skills and experience.

Full training and a handover will be provided.

Further information can be obtained by contacting Mont on 0428 861 159. Applications addressing your suitability for the position, a resumé and two referees are to be sent by email to millertransport3418@ gmail.com by Tuesday 17th June 2025.

and pr omote s the diver sit y of our communit y and suppor t s inc lusion and par ticipation for all Visit ww w.wc ma vic gov au to download a position de scr iption and key selec tion cr it er i a

Applications close 10 00a m Mo nd a y J un e 3 0 2 0 2 5

Brigid’s College Horsham

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Hockey resumes

BY SIMON KING

After a break last weekend, the Wimmera hockey community will travel west for the first time this year to Kaniva, where round six promises several captivating games on Saturday.

After five rounds, each opponent has been played once, so strengths and weaknesses are now known, and teams are aware of what they need to do to stay in the premiership race, which will lead to some intense hockey in the coming weeks.

Yanac Tigers will be out to confirm their place at the top of the open competition when they take on their closest rivals, Warrack Hoops.

The Tigers are coming off an extended break after a bye and a week off for senior country championships, while the Hoops experienced their first loss in their last outing, against Kaniva Cobras.

If the Tigers are victorious in their game, the door will be open for the Cobras to leapfrog the Hoops into second place on the ladder, provided they can defeat the improving Nhill Rangers, while Horsham Hurricanes have a bye.

Current ladder positions may suggest a clearcut round of matches in the women’s competition, when each of the top three teams takes on an opponent from the lower half of the ladder.

Dimboola Roos will have the most challenging assignment when they play Horsham Jets, who,

despite a hot and cold start to their season, can play well when they get their best onto the pitch.

Dimboola played well in its last match despite suffering a loss to the competition-leading Yanac, and should be good enough to defeat the Jets.

The Kaniva and Nhill Thunderbirds clash will also be worth watching, with Kaniva looking to break into the top two and the ’Birds being very competitive in all their matches so far this year.

On their home ground, Kaniva should prove too good, but will have to play at their best.

Despite their recent improvement, Warracknabeal will still find Yanac a tough assignment.

The under-16 ladder appears to be evolving into three distinct groups.

Among the leaders, Yanac Warriors are undefeated, and Nhill Leopards have suffered only one loss, and neither should have much trouble when they take on Warrack Revengers and Kaniva Raiders, respectively, this week.

In the middle of the ladder, Revengers are playing well, but will find the Warriors challenging, while the Dimboola Kangaroos have also been impressive this year, and should have the Horsham Bombers measure.

The two teams currently outside the top four are dropping off the pace and will need to register some wins soon, but this is unlikely to happen this week with the Raiders and Bombers facing in-form opponents.

Teams return to country champs

In their first appearance at senior hockey state country championships in six years, two Wimmera teams gave a good account of themselves over the weekend.

Hockey Victoria gave the tournament a new look this year with a regional venue, Bendigo, hosting both the men’s and women’s divisions for the first time.

Participants from all six Wimmera clubs made up the two local squads, along with several former Wimmera players now regularly competing elsewhere.

Facing some tough competition, the women’s team finished third with three wins, two losses and a draw, and the men came sixth after registering two draws and four losses from their six matches. While neither team came home with a title, it was a great opportunity for senior Wimmera hockey players to gain experience at a higher level.

Women

The women’s team opened with a loss to Hockey Central Vic (Bendigo), who scored three times, but the Wimmera did get one on the scoreboard courtesy of Erin Alexander. Their second match was a win over Peninsula by two goals to one, with Alexander and Sarah Chittick scoring the goals.

On Sunday morning, they registered a win against East Gippsland, with Alexi Farmers scoring the only goal of the match. Their final pool match was against North West Lightning, with

second place in Pool B on the line. This game ended in a win for the Wimmera, with Chittick scoring her second goal for the weekend.

This qualified them to play a semi-final against West Gippsland on Monday, which ended in a three-goal loss. With this result, they progressed to the third-place play-off match, which finished in a one-all draw, with Alexander scoring her third goal for the weekend.

In the gold-medal match, West Gippsland and Bendigo also played out a one-all draw, with the Gippsland team crowned as the premier team after winning a shoot-out by two goals to one.

Men

The men’s squad started their weekend with drawn encounters with Latrobe Valley (0-0) and Geelong (1-1), with Ben Williamson scoring the goal in the second game. Sunday morning started with a narrow one-goal loss to North West Lightning, and their final pool match was a three-goal loss to East Gippsland.

This saw them finish this phase of the tournament in fourth place on the Pool B ladder, which qualified them for cross-over matches against two teams that finished in similar positions on the Pool A ladder. These matches finished in a one-goal loss to Sunraysia and a loss to long-time rivals, North Central.

The premier team in this division was Goulburn Valley, which defeated Bendigo in the grand final.

– Simon King

IN CONTROL: Wimmera’s Cara Hadzig takes control during a country championships match in Bendigo at the weekend.

Picture: RACHEL CLARK

Leagues acknowledge junior players

Horsham

District Football Netball League and Wimmera Football Netball League award one under-17 footballer and one 17-and-under netballer a spirit of sport award each playing round.

The Spirit of Football and Spirit of Netball awards are presented by either Victoria Police officers or Blue Ribbon Foundation members.

Charlie Arnott – HDFNL

Laharum netballer Charlie Arnott has been on the netball court before she could walk, following her mother’s netball games. Charlie started netball in the Net Set Go team, progressing through 13-andunder, 15-and-under to now be a bottomage 17-and-under. Charlie plays in the goals and midcourt, always striving to play her best, and practices to improve her skills. Charlie has played some senior games, made special by playing alongside her mum Shannon and cousin Imogen. Charlie is pictured with Horsham Blue Ribbon Foundation member Les Power.

Cara Tippet –WFNL Horsham Saints netballer Cara Tippet, pictured with Blue Ribbon Foundation co-ordinator Les Power, is a highly-talented player through the midcourt. She has a steely determination and is capable of always making the contest. Cara is not only an outstanding junior player but she is also a very valuable player in the B Grade team.

Dylan Seymour –HDFNL

Kalkee footballer

Dylan Seymour, pictured receiving his award from Horsham police officer Dave Richardson, shows fantastic attitude both on and off the field and is always offering to help with whatever is needed. Dylan always has a smile on his face and will always put 100 per cent into everything that he does on and off the field.

Angus Slatter – WFNL

Horsham Saints footballer Angus Slatter has played with the Saints since Auskick and is highly regarded as one of the leaders of the under-17 team. His willingness to help around the club is an example for his team-mates, be it running the boundary for the senior grades or any other jobs that pop up, he is always among the first to put his hand up to help out. On the field, Angus wears the Saints jumper with pride. He is pictured with Horsham Blue Ribbon Foundation co-ordinator Les Power.

Harrow-Balmoral netballer Mia Rees’ enthusiasm for netball began when she started playing with the club in the Moddies. Her dedication and love for the sport are evident in her commitment to every aspect of the game – whether it’s training sessions, game days, or taking every opportunity to improve her skills. Mia proudly represents the Horsham and District interleague team and enjoys playing alongside her 17-and-under team, as well as being part of the A Grade squad. She looks forward to continuing her development with the club and contributing to its ongoing success. Mia is pictured with Horsham Police’s Tim Crick.

this

The under-17s

captain previously played for Lexton, Lake Wendouree, and Beaufort. He relies on the club’s bus from Hamilton to attend training every Thursday, and he particularly enjoys the chats with the friendly club members who volunteer to drive the return journey.

Round four

Round six

Clive Dunstan – HDFNL

Harrow-Balmoral footballer Clive Dunstan, pictured with Horsham police’s Tim Crick, is delighted to have returned to the club

season.

vice-

Mia Rees – HDFNL

Weekdays from 6am to 9am

Volleyballers win silver

BY DAVID BERRY

Volleyball Horsham’s divisionone women’s team has returned from the Victorian Country Volleyball Championships with a silver medal.

Facing off against arch rivals Bendigo, the Volleyball Horsham team displayed great heart and attacking skills but could not sustain its efforts for a complete set, going down in straight sets to make it three silver medals in four years, in the postCOVID period.

Team captain Kara Johnson said her girls had to do it the hard way to qualify for the finals, after an upset five set loss to Warrnambool to start day two, winning three of their six round robin games.

“In our final game on Sunday evening, the girls had to beat Bendigo or at least take two sets off the undefeated ladder leaders to qualify, and after taking the first set 25-16, the team was on track to keep their finals hopes alive,” she said.

“The second set went to Bendigo as they ramped up their attack, but to our girls’ credit they fought back and took the third set, which effectively sealed second spot on the ladder.

“We were determined to show Bendigo that we could compete and we gave our all, and despite losing in five sets in the end, our game was coming together nicely, giving us confidence going into the goldmedal match.”

Bendigo’s classy Elsie Rodgers-Rutledge.

At 17-17 Bendigo’s Steph Davis served four aces as the Volleyball Horsham receivers could not land a pass, and then Rodgers-Rutledge served two aces and the first set was effectively over.

Johnson said her girls did not drop their bundle and again matched Bendigo for most of the second set.

“But Elsie got us again on serve at a crucial stage. Despite the best efforts of our frontline defence, we couldn’t stop their attack,” she said.

The team was brave in the third set

Johnson was full of praise for her young team.

“The good thing about both of our division-one teams is that we gave younger players a taste of division one competition. They will learn from that and only make our teams better going forward,” she said.

In other divisions, a men’s division-one team lost the bronze medal match to Latrobe Valley in three close sets.

Captain Dimitrios Vettos was proud of how his team made the others work hard for their wins.

“The team went in undermanned and despite taking sets off both Bendigo and Latrobe Valley in the round-robin games, we couldn’t sustain our efforts in the bronze-medal match,” he said.

“This competition is brutal, with a high level of play, and when you have teams with elite level players at their disposal, our boys can hold their heads high for having a crack. It’s our 50th anniversary next year so we are starting the planning now for our teams to make 2026 memorable.”

The Volleyball Horsham division-three teams showed marked improvement on last year with a girls’ team finishing fifth and a boys’ team ninth.

Boys’ team coach Justin Brilliant said the focus would now switch to the junior country championships for these teams.

“Both teams were quite young for open competition, setting them up nicely for their junior country championships, so we

Harness action today

Lexton reinsman James Herbertson enjoyed a stellar year in the sulky last season, mid-term capturing Horsham’s Decron Noel Smith Memorial and culminating with the prestigious Australian Drivers Premiership, his final tally of 370 being 93 winners clear of the runner-up, Pete McMullen of Queensland.

‘Herbie’ won’t get back in time from an overseas working holiday to defend his Horsham title this afternoon, but his absence, along with the much loved and sadly missed Greg Sugars, has opened the door for a number of young guns and seasoned veterans.

Horsham Harness Racing Club will stage the 35th edition of the prestigious Decron Noel Smith Memorial Invitation Drivers Championship today.

Smith was a long-serving Horsham Harness Racing Club committee member, life member, past president and zone delegate.

His enormous contribution to the Victorian harness racing industry – both locally and more widely, saw him honoured with a Distinguished Service Medal by Harness Racing Victoria.

politan premiership,” club chief executive Jo Cross said.

“We’ll have a few faces missing on Wednesday afternoon. James Herbertson hasn’t returned from his working holiday in USA and Sweden, David Moran is suspended, Kate Gath is unavailable and sadly we have recently lost the great Greg Sugars.”

The 10 invitees – Chris Alford, Jackie Barker, Glen Craven, Matt Craven, Jason Lee, Jack Laugher, Jordan Leedham, Kerryn Manning, Michael Stanley and Chris Svanosio – will contest five races at Horsham with the horses all randomly allocated.

This year also marks the 15th industry participants appreciation day, with the club paying tribute to the owners, trainers, drivers and stablehands who make the meeting possible.

“There’ll be plenty of lucky draws and giveaways on race day,” Cross said.

“It’s our way of saying thank you to the people who support the club and who keep the industry running.”

The eight event card of harness action kicks off at noon, with free entry through the

All Star Seven teams were announced at the end of the tournament with Volleyball Horsham’s Kara Johnson taking MVP and All Star Seven honours in division one women, while Sophie Quick was voted as the best libero.

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SUCCESS:

The winning Kaniva team, from back left, Stacey Wallis Rabone, Donna Vivian, Leonie Shurdington, Pam van Kempen and Maree van Kempen; and front, Kate Hood and Fleur Finlayson.

Golf champions crowned

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Nhilland Kaniva are the Wimmera District Golf Association’s respective men’s and women’s pennant champions for 2025.

Both clubs were crowned after winning finals earlier this month, following several rounds of competition across the preceding weeks.

Nhill earned its men’s pennant victory against Warracknabeal in a final at Kaniva on June 1, after beating Natimuk in a semi final for the right to advance the previous day.

The match-play final saw Nhill’s number one and two men, Todd Alexander and Kim Croot, get their team off to a hot start, with Alexander winning five and three against Warracknabeal opponent Ryan McKenzie, while Croot beat Ryan Smith three and two.

Warracknabeal bounced back in the number-three pairing, with Jake Jess defeating Nhill’s Bryan Dufty four and three, but Nhill number four Matt Cranage’s three-and-two win against Lockie Stewart sealed the victory for his side.

The final pairing saw Warracknabeal’s Brenton Cheney defeat

Stewart Bone three and one, but it proved too little, too late.

Warracknabeal was also on the wrong side of the result in Monday’s women’s final, going down to Kaniva in a nail-biter.

Scores were locked at two apiece entering the final match, with Warracknabeal’s Wendy Hewitt defeating Fleur Finlayson five and three in the number-one pairing, before

Donna Vivian downed Leonie Atkin four and two to even the ledger.

The number-three match saw Warracknabeal’s Cindy Marsh outduel Kate Hood seven and five, but Kaniva’s Leonie Shurdington scored an equally impressive eight and six win over Karen Germano at number four to again even the scores.

It all came down to the final pair-

Laharum wins annual battle

Football and netball players from Natimuk United and Laharum marked the second iteration of an annual Battle of the Rocks game, which celebrates the Indigenous history of both regions, during National Reconciliation Week last month.

The Battle of the Rocks references the Grampians-Gariwerd region near Laharum and Mount Arapiles-Dyurrite near Natimuk, which are both culturally significant areas for Aboriginal people.

Players wore special uniforms designed by Aboriginal artists when the clubs faced off at Natimuk on May 31, with Wergaia and Dja Dja Wurrung elder Uncle Ron Marks, who has links to both clubs, conducting a welcome to country ceremony.

Laharum secretary Rowena Doyle said the Battle of the Rocks was a good way to promote knowledge of and respect for Aboriginal culture locally.

“The Grampians-Gariwerd holds a special place in the hearts of our community and we are acutely aware of its significance to the Wotjobaluk people,” she said.

“We wish to use this event as a platform to recognise and pay our respects to the Indigenous culture that enriches the history of our region.

“The proximity of our home ground in Laharum to Gariwerd provides a unique opportunity for us to engage with the community, learn from the traditional owners, and celebrate the rich heritage of the area.”

ing of Kaniva’s Pam van Kempen and Warracknabeal’s Vicki Hinkley, with the duo unable to be separated until the final hole.

It was van Kempen, with a one-up win on the 18th hole, who delivered victory for her team.

The win marked Kaniva’s first women’s pennant in three decades, a year after the club’s men achieved the same feat.

Ms Doyle said Laharum netballers played in uniforms designed by Wotjobaluk woman Kenita-Lee McCartney, with Imigo Dawn designing best-on-ground medals.

A perpetual trophy, designed by Wayne McGinnis, is awarded to the club that wins the most games across all grades of football and netball during each Battle of the Rocks, with Laharum retaining the trophy as it won six games to Natimuk United’s four.

VICTORIOUS: Nhill Golf Club men’s pennant winners, from left, Todd Alexander, Stewart Bone, Bryan Dufty, Kim Croot and Matt Cranage.

PROUD: Laharum football player Phil Butsch, left, with club president Hamish Roberts holding the Battle of the Rocks perpetual trophy.

By Colin MacGillivray

hOrsham DisTricT league

Geared for second half

Horsham

District Football Netball League’s senior competition is intriguingly poised as it hits its halfway mark following a King’s Birthday long weekend bye.

Last season’s runner-up, Noradjuha-Quantong, has jumped out of the blocks to top the ladder with a perfect 7-0 record and an imposing percentage of 271.95.

In the final round before the break, the Bombers dealt reigning premier Harrow-Balmoral its first loss in more than two years, exacting a small measure of revenge for last season’s grand final loss in the process.

With Brock Orval and Judah Hobbs providing potency in attack and recruit Declan Phyland hitting his straps alongside returning players such as Wade Francis, Jack Vague, Dylan Shelley and James Gregg, the Bombers boast enviable depth.

But Noradjuha-Quantong coach Damian Cameron knows that with the Roos missing several key players –including Nick Pekin, Will Plush, Michael Close and coach Jai Thompson – during their recent clash, the season is far from over.

Sitting third behind the Bombers and Roos is Laharum, which has quietly

compiled a 5-3 record and an impressive percentage of 186.62.

Outside of four-goal losses to each of the top two sides, the Demons’ only other slip-up came against last season’s finals foe Pimpinio in a fivepoint thriller.

With a blend of experienced campaigners – headed by co-coaches

Shannon Argall and Robbie Miller, midfielder Daniel Easson and recruit Brodie Mines – as well as emerging young guns like forwards Chase Whelan and Josh Hutchinson, the Demons have positioned themselves well to chase a top-three finish in the back half of the year.

Trailing Laharum by percentage only are the Tigers who, with a 5-2 record, have also set themselves up to chase a finals berth.

In its last match, Pimpinio suffered an 89-point loss to Kaniva-Leeor United, but with veteran midfielder Matt Rosier and some other senior players still to return, the team has upside in the second half of the year. A testing game against the Bombers at Pimpinio this weekend will give onlookers a good insight into the Tigers’ mindset.

Swifts will return fresh from a twoweek break to face Kaniva-Leeor

United this weekend as they attempt to put an up-and-down start to the season behind them.

The Baggies have multiple wins by 10 or more goals, but also dropped games against fellow finals aspirants Pimpinio and Laharum, and are ahead of the sixth-placed Cougars on percentage only, setting up a crucial clash between the sides at North Park.

Natimuk United and Taylors Lake also remain alive in the finals race, sitting seventh and eighth respectively, with the Rams facing a virtual mustwin contest on the road against 10thplaced Kalkee this weekend to keep their season alive.

Rupanyup, currently ninth, has struggled out of the blocks with two wins and a draw from seven matches, and faces another daunting test against Harrow-Balmoral at Harrow on Saturday.

It is a similar story for EdenhopeApsley – the sole club without a win thus far in 2025.

The Saints sacked coach Adi Campbell ahead of the final round before the break, and while their performance against Taylors Lake under interim coach Allan McIntyre was encouraging, they will start as underdogs against Laharum at Cameron Oval.

Premiership race wide open in A Grade netball

The race for the 2025 premiership appears wide open as the Horsham District A Grade netball competition emerges from a league-wide King’s Birthday long weekend bye.

Reigning premier Laharum remains atop the ladder, but is coming off its first defeat of the season at the hands of Natimuk United after going through last year without a loss.

Even before the loss there were indications the Demons were slightly off the blistering pace they set in 2024, with their current percentage of 131 more than 40 points lower than the 178 they posted last year.

Nevertheless, the team saw off Kalkee and grand final opponent Rupanyup – two teams tipped to be among its biggest challengers – in close encounters, showing it still has what it takes to defend its crown.

The Demons will face off against third-placed Edenhope-Apsley – an-

other potential premiership challenger – this weekend in what should be a useful measuring stick for both sides.

The Saints, led by coach and star goalie Lavinia Fox, have seemingly hit form in recent weeks after an upset loss to Swifts in round two and a 13goal defeat at the hands of Rupanyup a month later.

With Dee Dee Lambert adding another attacking option alongside Fox in the Saints’ most recent game, Laharum’s defensive unit, including coach Rebecca McIntyre and Ema Iredell, will be kept busy.

Rupanyup has been, as expected, excellent to start the year, and sits second with a percentage of 176 – almost identical to Laharum’s last season.

Their win over Kalkee before the break showed a roadmap to success for this season, with defenders Victoria Taylor and Holly Ross providing smothering defence, sisters Georgia and Ally Hiscock running strongly through the midcourt with Meg Cashin and Zanaiya Bergen adding to her league-leading goal tally up forward.

Swifts have been the surprise packet of the season, sitting in fourth place after pulling off wins against the likes of the Saints and Natimuk United, while pushing Laharum.

Perennial finals sides Kalkee and Noradjuha-Quantong are nipping at the Baggies’ heels, sitting fifth and sixth respectively.

Only two goals separated the sides when they met in round seven, and despite inconsistent results, both present match-up difficulties for any opponent.

following round in a pair of matches that will likely shape their finals hopes.

Sitting further off the pace are Harrow-Balmoral, Natimuk Untied and Kaniva-Leeor United, each with two wins.

While they and bottom-of-the-ladder Pimpinio are unlikely to play finals, each has shown competitiveness, with the Tigers in particular unlucky not to break through for their first win of the season against the Cougars.

The Panthers have bolstered an already deep playing group, and with the exception of their loss to the Demons, have won each of their games this season by nine goals or more.

The Baggies finished three wins off the finals pace in 2024, but with Rebbekkah Seeary and co-captain Michaela Carey creating a potent duo in goals – sitting fifth and seventh respectively on the league table – the team has been stout enough at both ends of the court to compete with the league’s best.

The Bombers have adjusted to a new forward setup, with long-time goal shooter Shannon Couch, who finished third on the goal-scoring last season, taking a back seat to recruit Taya Quick, who sits fourth on this season’s leaderboard.

Taylors Lake is, along with Swifts, another big improver in 2025, sitting seventh with three wins and five losses after winning only two games all of last season.

The Lakers face a difficult fortnight ahead however, with games against Laharum this weekend and Kalkee the

Each will be tested when play resumes this weekend, with Pimpinio to host Noradjuha-Quantong, Harrow-Balmoral at home to Rupanyup, Kaniva-Leeor United on the road against Swifts and Natimuk United away against Kalkee.

SOLID: Noradjuha-Quantong’s Judah Hobbs is a regular high-performer for the Bombers, providing potency in attack. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

By Lauren Henry

league

Teams prepare for run to finals

It’s

been a tale of two halves for Minyip-Murtoa so far in season 2025 – starting the year with three wins that were abruptly followed by three losses.

If the Burras are to get their season back on track, a win over Nhill this Saturday will go a long way to reenergising their bid to make finals.

Minyip-Murtoa coach Gareth Hose made no secret the club’s senior side was aiming this year to make amends for last year’s disappointment of missing out on finals.

As it nears the midway point of the Wimmera league season, the Burras sit in sixth position, and 12 points –the same as Dimboola – and only four points behind Stawell and Horsham Saints.

A win over Nhill could not only boost them up into the top five, but also give them confidence going into the second half of the season.

Tim McKenzie has been Mr Consistent this season, named in the best on five occasions, while Tim McIn-

Nearing the midpoint of the 2025 Wimmera league A Grade netball season, Horsham Saints have positioned themselves as the team to beat.

Following their loss in last year’s grand final to Horsham Demons, the Saints seem determined to regain their top-tier status in 2025.

Undefeated so far this season, the Saints’ closest margin has been against Southern Mallee Thunder, 14 goals, who challenged the top team in windy conditions at Hopetoun in round six.

Goal-shooter Jorja Clode has been the focal point in attack, shooting 309 goals for the season.

The teenager is by far the leading shooter in A Grade – the next highest shooting tally is Imogen Worthy on 211.

In round seven, Clode was best-oncourt, shooting a massive 65 goals for the match in the Saints’ biggest win of the year, defeating Minyip-Murtoa 97-25.

Perhaps even more impressive is that Clode rarely shoots at below 80 per cent accuracy, providing a consistent and tall target in the goal circle – and

tyre is the Burras’ leading goal-kicker with 12 goals, marginally ahead of young gun Oscar Gawith, 10 goals.

For Nhill, Drew Schneider is relishing a slightly different role this season, kicking 20 goals for the Tigers, who have been well served by Darcy Reid, Daniel Batson and Liam Albrecht.

The Tigers have lost just once this season – going down in a thumping to Dimboola by 74 points – but are yet to face Ararat, who they will play in round nine.

The other interesting match of round eight is first versus third on the ladder – Ararat plays host to Horsham Saints.

Both teams brim with home-grown talent, and the undefeated Ararat will have fresh legs after having the past two weeks off with a bye and then the King’s Birthday weekend break.

The Rats have been hit by injuries in recent weeks but, with the depth added to their club in the off-season recruitment drive, go into this Satur-

day’s match as favourites. The Saints, with four wins and three losses, would be more than pleased to sit in third spot on the ladder after playing all teams, except Ararat.

Mitch Martin – also the Saints’ leading goal-kicker with 15 goals –and Keegan Mellington are having standout seasons, and will need to lead from the front if their side is to have any chance against the Rats.

For Ararat, co-coach Tom Williamson leads the way with 24 goals for the season, but as usual it’s been a fairly consistent team effort across the board that has allowed the reigning premiers to go along their merry way.

Other than their 20-point win over the Burras, every Ararat win this season has been by a margin of more than 50 points.

Meanwhile, last year’s other grand finalist, Southern Mallee Thunder, is not yet enjoying the same successes as previous years.

With just two wins so far in 2025,

is a headache for opposition defenders. This week it will be Ararat’s defenders who will need to keep Clode quiet if they are any chance of an upset win.

Horsham Saints A Grade coach Vernetta Taylor said her players were ‘cementing themselves in their positions now’.

“As we look to the second half of the

against Warrack Eagles and MinyipMurtoa, the Thunder find themselves languishing in seventh spot.

With their playing coach Keiran Delahunty out with a broken leg, the Thunder will need a big effort in the second half of the year to turn around their season.

That may just start this Saturday when it hosts Horsham Demons at Rainbow.

The undermanned Demons, whose off-season losses have hurt their performances, are yet to win a game this season.

The Demons are coming off a loss to Warrack Eagles, who have shown plenty of promise in 2025.

Other than a 103-point loss to Ararat, the Eagles’ losing margins have been kept to 22 points or less – they have been so close to putting wins on the board this season, and have definitely showed more promise than last season.

This Saturday, the Eagles – who have been led by performances of

season, we’re really getting focused and settled,” she said.

“We’ve still got Ararat to play –they’ll be a great challenge because they’ve been playing some wonderful netball this year, so we’re looking forward to that match.”

After finishing bottom of the ladder last year, Ararat has been the surprisepacket for season 2025.

A massive recruiting coup by the Rats – securing sisters Faith and Paige Biddle from Mininera District league club Ararat Eagles – has seen the league’s most southern team turn around their fortunes in 2025.

Four wins, over Stawell, Warrack Eagles, Southern Mallee Thunder and Minyip-Murtoa, sees them sitting fourth on the ladder.

Coming off a bye in round seven and then a week for the King’s Birthday weekend, the Rats will be more than refreshed to take on the Saints on their home court in Ararat this Saturday.

Another interesting match is set to play out between Southern Mallee Thunder and Horsham Demons, who sit fifth and second on the ladder

Sam Hanna, Declan Powell and Riley Morrow this year – will need a big effort to overcome Dimboola.

The Roos, who are bolstered by their Northern Territory recruits when they play, have shown plenty of grit in the past month, notching up three wins and a narrow loss to Stawell. Sitting in fifth spot on the ladder, Dimboola has been best served by Ben Miller and Dylan Landt this season, while their goal-kicking leaders are Jackson Calder, 21 goals, and Benjamin Brett, 15 goals.

Just above the Roos in fourth place is Stawell, who this week have the bye, but will be looking to consolidate their season with more improvement in the second half.

Forward Paul Summers, leading the league’s goal-kicking tally with 39 goals, has been a standout for the Warriors, who have adopted a new gameplan this season under new cocoaches Perry Meka and James Sullivan.

respectively. While the reigning premiers are not showing their dominance of teams week-in, week-out, they are quietly building as the season progresses.

The Demons have only lost one game this season – to their old rivals Saints – and have won three games by a margin of less than 10 goals, showing they know how to grind out a win when needed.

They might just have to do that this week when they travel to Rainbow to take on the Thunder, who always keep the scoreline close.

Whether they are notching up a win or battling it out for a loss, the Thunder is a consistent and capable side, led well by co-coach Steph Thomson in goal-attack.

The other two matches of round eight are Minyip-Murtoa and Nhill, in what should be a close game at Minyip; while Warrack Eagles will face a tough opponent in Dimboola. Stawell has a bye.

ACCURATE: Horsham Saints goal-shooter Jorja Clode is the leading shooter in A Grade with 309 goals so far this season.

spOrT

Sporting excellence shines

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Horsham athlete Georgia

Foster’s recent success at state, national and international level has drawn recognition, with the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly, WRSA, naming her its first finalist for the 2025 Sports Star of the Year Award.

Foster was nominated after a huge start to 2025 that saw her bag three gold medals as a member of a Little Athletics Victoria team that competed at the North Island Games in New Zealand.

Against the top junior athletes in Australia and New Zealand, Foster won individual gold medals in the 100m and 200m sprints, and was part of a winning four-by-100m team.

She also qualified to compete in long jump at the meet, but withdrew because of a toe injury.

In March, Foster had further success at the State Track and Field Championships in Melbourne, winning gold medals in the under-15 100m and 200m events.

Even more success followed in April when Foster returned from the Australian Little Athletics Championships in Adelaide

with two gold medals, a silver and a bronze.

The Horsham teenager ran a sterling time of 26.28 seconds to win the individual 200m under-15 final, also winning gold as part of a four-by-100m relay team.

Foster won a silver medal as a member of Victoria’s under-15 Swedish relay team, and a bronze after running third in the individual 100m final.

WRSA executive officer Tony Caccaviello said Foster’s year had been ‘marked by determination, discipline and excellence’.

“Georgia has represented the Horsham Little Athletics Club and the Wimmera with distinction, earning her place among the region’s top athletes,” he said.

“Georgia made history at the Australian Little Athletics Championships in Adelaide by becoming her club’s first national champion.”

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Finalists to feature

The Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly, WRSA, will announce its finalists for the 2025 Sports Star of the Year Award intermittently in the lead-up to its annual awards night.

The WRSA will present its Sports Star of the Year Award – along with other honours including volunteer, club, administrator and team of the year – at a gala dinner in February 2026.

But finalists for the main award will feature in The Weekly Advertiser in the months leading up to the event.

The Wimmera Sports Star Awards shine a spotlight on the talent, dedication, and passion within the region’s sporting community. The awards celebrate athletes, coaches, volunteers, and clubs who make a lasting impact on sports across the Wimmera region.

WRSA executive officer Tony Caccaviello said the awards recognised people who went above and beyond in their sport.

“From junior standouts to seasoned veterans, our awards celebrate not only performance but the heart and spirit of community sport,” he said.

“The awards celebrate achievements by recognising outstanding performances at local, state and national levels; supporting community heroes through highlighting those who work behind the scenes, from volunteers to coaches; and encourage future generations to inspire young athletes by showcasing role models in the sporting community.”

Mr Caccaviello called on Wimmera residents to nominate athletes, coaches, volunteers and other community sporting initiatives they believe deserve recognition for the Sports Star of the Year awards.

“Nominations are open to everyone — whether you’re a player, friend, family member, or fan – if you know someone doing great things in sport, we want to hear about them,” he said.

People can make nominations for all categories via the WRSA website at wrsa.org.au/sports-star.

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FINALIST: Young Horsham athlete Georgia Foster has been named a finalist in the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly 2025 Sports Star of the Year Award.

Targets set for charity shoot

Natimuk and District Field and Game is preparing to host its annual charity shoot next month after a successful event on Monday.

More than 100 shooters from 13 clubs across Victoria and South Australia turned out at Natimuk for the King’s Birthday public holiday on Monday despite an unfavourable weather report.

Club president Zakk Taylor said the 75-target shoot had been a success, setting the stage well for next month’s charity event.

“The day was great – the rain held off, which was good,” he said.

“It was good to see that many shooters come and brave the weather, considering there was a 50 per cent chance of a few mils of rain.”

Winner of the open section on Monday was Natimuk club member Nathan Peddlesden, who hit 66 of his 75 targets.

The AA section winner was Jaden Hendy of Keith, also with 66 targets, with Natimuk’s Bruce Holding, 61, winning A Grade, Grampians’ Darren Hosken, 54, taking B Grade and

Hosken’s clubmate Greg Cooper, 44, winning C Grade.

Natimuk’s Jardy Ellis took out the junior section with 50 targets, with Portland shooter Darcie Kuhl, 56, winning the women’s section.

Steven Crawford of Coleraine was the veteran winner, hitting 60 targets, with Ararat’s Dakka Robinson, 47, on top in the super-veteran category.

Mr Taylor called on people to support the club’s charity event on Sunday, July 13.

“Each year we pick a different charity and donate all the proceeds from the shoot to that charity. This year we’re supporting MND Victoria,” he said.

“It’s open to anyone to come and try, and there’s also a goods and services auction with prizes that have all been donated. All the money from that auction also goes to MND Victoria.

“We’re hoping to get 200 to the charity shoot –that would be fantastic.”

People can find more information about the club’s upcoming charity shoot by visiting www. facebook.com/natimukfga.

Trevor Dumesny

Mitchell Hendy

Vol. 27 No. 48

June 11, 2025

Kaniva shooter Evie Hendy disposes of cartridges at Natimuk Field and Game’s King’s Birthday shoot on Monday. Shooters from across the region competed in the 75-target event. Story, page 67. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

On target

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