The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, June 25, 2025 by The Weekly Advertiser

The concert was organised by North West Grampians Lions Club and raised money for mental health program Grampians Health Rural Outreach Program in honour of the club’s late president Keith Fischer, who died last month.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Council gives notice

BY LAUREN HENRY

Horsham Rural City Council will give notice to leave Wimmera Southern Mallee Development – the region’s peak economic development body.

The council also voted at Monday night’s meeting to reduce its financial member contribution to $100,000 – a significant drop from the $238,656 it was expected to pay in the 2025-26 financial year.

WSMD, encompassing the municipalities of Horsham, West Wimmera, Hindmarsh, Yarriambiack and Buloke, ‘shapes and guides the region’s economic, cultural, social and environmental opportunities’, working with communities, industries and all levels of governments to ‘enable growth,

remove barriers and build resilience and sustainability’.

But Horsham councillors voted 5-2 to leave WSMD as of June next year, and reduce its funding contribution for the 2025-26 financial year.

WMSD, formerly called Wimmera Development Association, has attracted criticism in some parts of the region for its openness to and encouragement of renewable energy and mineral sands mining projects.

Council-appointed director to WSMD, Cr Cameron McDonald, amended communities and place director Kevin O’Brien’s recommended motion, telling the council meeting that WSMD failed to align with the council’s strategic priorities.

Mr O’Brien’s recommendation was for council to decrease its annual

contribution to $150,000, contingent on WMSD delivering key priorities of council as follows: development of agriculture sector, workforce development, regional development, regional leadership, drought resilience and telecommunications.

“I, along with the other council-appointed directors from other councils, have in the last six months become increasingly disappointed and frustrated in the direction of the organisation, and although we’ve expressed that frustration and disappointment, it does seem to have fallen on deaf ears,” Cr McDonald said.

“We had a presentation from CEO Chris Sounness last week. I think the presentation spoke for itself.

“Other councillors are in possession of financial statements on the board

papers. They speak for themselves.”

Cr McDonald said a positive aspect of WSMD was the By Five early learning initiative, but he was disappointed in WSMD’s failed $130,000 application to become a provider for Housing Victoria.

Cr Rebecca Sluggett said she agreed with part of Mr O’Brien’s recommendation to request quarterly progress reports from WSMD, giving them a chance to improve on meeting the council’s priorities.

“I suppose it still highlights that we are considering leaving, but it also gives us a bit more of an open door to stay if we decide that they’re coming back into what we see align with our priorities,” she said.

Cr Todd Wilson also opposed the amended motion, and said he believed

by reducing funding and indicating the council was leaving would result in WSMD ignoring further feedback.

“I think it’s beneficial for us to give this organisation a chance to lift and try to meet our strategic priorities into the future,” he said.

But Cr McDonald said WSMD was in a strong financial position with $1.6-million in unallocated funds, and was already making plans to combat more councils withdrawing memberships.

“Interestingly, it has already flagged, something like four councils already pulling out,” he said.

“ We are not isolated. By my reckoning, there will be only one council left by June, 2026.”

Continued page 3

TRIBUTE: Australian music icons

Dobe Newton and Roger Corbett of The Bushwackers perform at Horsham Town Hall on Sunday.

HRCC NEWS

Library grant to extend opening hours

The Horsham Library has secured $39,333 in funding from the State Government as part of its Living Libraries Infrastructure Project (LLIP).

The LLIP supports regional library corporations and local councils with funding to enhance library services for their communities.

At Horsham Library, this funding will go towards the Open Access Fit-Out — an initiative that will enable community members to access the library facilities into the evening, seven days a week.

The grant will assist with upgrades including CCTV, automatic doors, motion detection, automatic lighting and keypad entry.

With these upgrades in place, the community will have access to computers, printers, books, DVDs and study areas outside normal business hours.

It is hoped that extended access to library services will support residents’ educational and recreational needs, without restricting use to daylight hours.

“This project is all about addressing direct community feedback,” said Co-ordinator of Wimmera Libraries Sarah Wiesner.

“When we last consulted the community, there was overwhelming support for extended opening hours, especially during the Summer months where it serves as a refuge from the heat, and on weeknights and weekends, so that working families are not excluded,”

“The community has consistently told Council and the former library corporation that opening hours are the single biggest barrier to access. The Open Access project aims to remove this barrier for everybody.”

This recognition places Natimuk among the state’s best, celebrating its unique blend of outdoor adventure, creative spirit, and warm community welcome.

Public voting is a key component of the judging process and plays a vital role in determining the overall winner.

Voting closes Friday, 27 June.

Taking place on Sunday 29 June and Sunday 27 July, these two special afternoons will showcase the very best of Horsham’s community spirit, food, music, and winter charm.

Located at the Riverfront Meeting Place (End of Firebrace St) between 12pm-6pm. The riverfront will come alive with:

•Food trucks serving up winter favourites such as wood-fired pizza, pulled meats, burgers and more.

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

•Guys Coffee keeping hands warm with hot drinks.

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

•Fire pits to gather around and stay toasty.

•Lawn games to entertain the whole family.

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

New citizens hailed from a diverse range of countries, including Kenya, the Philippines, Bahrain, India, Zimbabwe, Thailand, Ireland, Myanmar, and Poland.

Council typically hosts around six citizenship ceremonies each year on behalf of the Australian Government. As part of the celebration, each new citizen receives a native plant from Council — a living symbol of their new roots in Australia.

"When people from all walks of life come together, our community grows in resilience and richness," said Mayor Ian Ross.

“We’re thrilled that these individuals and families have chosen to call our region home. It’s a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.”

“It was uplifting to see the space filled with smiling faces, surrounded by proud friends and loved ones.” he said.

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

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 community 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

to the

a fresh new look at one of its most popular photo spots.

The keyhole area near the main entrance — a favourite space for relaxing, taking photos, or simply enjoying the view — has recently been upgraded with new paving.

Previously featuring a quartz sand surface, the newly paved area offers improved accessibility and a more defined finish, enhancing the overall experience for garden-goers. The upgraded area has now been completed and is open to the public.

STAY UP TO DATE

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Eighteen people from 10 different nations took the pledge to become Australian citizens during a heartfelt ceremony held last Wednesday at the Civic Centre

Visitors

Horsham Botanical Gardens may notice

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).

Applause for ‘responsible Budget’

BY LAUREN HENRY

Horsham Rural City Council

has adopted a self-described ‘fiscally-responsible’ 2025-26 Budget, changing the model of its differential rating system to provide more consistency to ratepayers over the next four years.

At Monday night’s meeting, Horsham Mayor Ian Ross described the Budget as responsible, achieved by pulling back on council’s expenditure.

A round of applause from councillors and the handful of people in the gallery followed the passing of the Budget, which features $20.22-million of capital works, including $7.19-million in new projects, $11.35-million in renewal and $1.67-million in upgrades.

Capital works projects include Horsham City Oval netball clubrooms completion and fit-out; upgrade of toilets in Firebrace Street; Horsham Town Hall lighting desk; Apex Adventure Island eastern boardwalk crossing

and fishing platform; and more than $7-million in road and street works.

“There’s $2.8-million for further work on developing our various industrial estates, which really sets us up for the future in relation to attracting business and big business to Horsham, so our economic viability and that work done by previous council is so important for our ongoing future,” Cr Ross said.

“Overall, I commend this to fellow councillors and the community. I think it’s a responsible Budget and it provides a strong way forward for our city council.”

Council has increased rates by three per cent, in line with the rate cap set by the State Government for the 202526 financial year.

The municipal charge will remain at $200, while there will be a small increase for waste collection services, taking the urban bin charge to $543 and the rural bin charge to $378.

Cr Ross said council was mindful of cost-of-living pressures, and

would continue to provide an additional council-funded pensioner rebate of $50.

The budget is boosted by $3.342-million of grant funding, $16.854-million of council cash from operations, reserves and investments and $30,000 in external contributions.

The collection of rates will earn the council $29.199-million, while the single largest cost to council remains staffing, forecast to cost $29.619-million in 2025-26.

The council will repay all existing borrowings in the next financial year, and is not planning to take on more debt in 2025-26.

Cr Angela Munn thanked the council staff for their diligence in preparing the Budget, which required a lastminute revision after council decided mid-June to knock back a $4.8-million Federal Government grant for Horsham City Oval because it did not want to match the funding contribution.

“ This year, in line with a very constrained financial position, all staff

across the organisation were challenged to identify savings wherever possible, which was done. We did the same. It’s been a challenging task for all of us, particularly given the commitments inherited from previous years,” Cr Munn said.

Council also adopted the revenue and rating plan 2025-29, outlining the strategic framework and decisions that council have made in relation to the calculation and collection of its revenue.

The council considered the current financial environment and other factors including the reasons for the retention of differential rating, and set contribution percentages for the various rating sectors to provide consistency and stability in the dollars contributed, regardless of movement as a result of property valuations.

“ I’m very comfortable with the changes made to this revenue and rating plan to have a floating differential on farming land going forward,” Cr Rebecca Sluggett said.

Celebration of volunteers’ selfless dedication

Horsham RSL celebrated hundreds of hours of volunteer work with a special lunch on Sunday.

About 80 people were in attendance for the lunch, which featured awards and presentations to volunteers.

President Gareth Lane said the annual lunch was Horsham RSL’s way to say thank you to its many volunteers.

“They’re the people who always help out during the times for the memorial services, Remembrance Day, and selling poppies,” he said.

“They always host a stand for us, which is really fantastic, and this is our way of saying thank you.”

One volunteer recognised for his long-time service was Alex Stewart, who has served on the veterans welfare committee since 1999 – much of that time as president.

Mr Lane presented Mr Stewart with a trophy, congratulating him on 26 years of ‘selfless dedication to the Wimmera veteran community’.

“Obviously through the test of times, through personal health issues, also the pandemic, the welfare committee tries to work out the best way to keep in contact with the veterans and their families,” Mr Lane said.

“Farming land will contribute 33 per cent of the revenue collected by council, with the balance to be made up by the residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

“Unlike other businesses, farmers are unable to charge increased costs onto end users.

“It is quite a big change to the previous 50 per cent of the uniform rate on the dollar, and it is my hope for the most this will take away the bill shock due to high increases in farmland and value.

“This is not a huge discount for farmers from last year. It is a change in how the amount is calculated.”

Council’s fees and charges were also adopted, with council acknowledging the rising costs in Environment Protection Authority waste levies that continue to affect transfer station and landfill charges; the rising costs of processing green waste; and escalating costs in administering permits.

On notice

From page 1

Cr McDonald said council identified there was an opportunity for it to bring economic development back into its own council, rather than outsource it.

“To play devil’s advocate, we could potentially, instead of having an economic development board, put all of those resources into Wimmera Southern Mallee Development, if they were doing such a good job. Sadly, that isn’t the case,” he said.

“So the option there, which makes sense, is to bring those resources back into our own council, where we would have direct control.”

Northern Grampians Shire Council announced in July 2023 it would be leaving WSMD, giving 12 months’ notice – citing concerns about duplication, its renewed capability to undertake work in-house, and a $100,000 cost saving as reasons for the decision.

In the meeting’s agenda, a list of member councils and their annual financial contribution were outlined, based on population percentage in the region.

Mr Stewart described the award as ‘absolutely incredible’.

“I didn’t expect anything like this ever to happen. I’ve just done it because I liked doing what I was doing,” he said.

“During that time, especially with the pandemic, not even being able to visit anyone, or go to hospitals to see people when they’re in hospital, it’s been a challenge for them.”

“It’s about looking after the welfare of our veterans who might be in hospital or just at home, going to see them every month or every few weeks to see how they’re getting on.”

Mr Lane said Horsham RSL needed more volunteers, particularly younger people, to assist. “We need to try and get some of the young ones involved,” he said.

“We’ve got a lot of veterans from this area, who really aren’t involved that much, and the younger ones who have served, and we’ve just got to put it out there to get them involved.”

In 2024-25, councils’ contribution was: Horsham – $235,129; West Wimmera – $37,901; Hindmarsh Shire –$50,512; and Yarriambiack – $66,341. Mr Sounness was unavailable for comment due to a board meeting yesterday afternoon. A follow-up story will be published in next week’s The Weekly Advertiser.

• Editorial, page 11.

RECOGNITION: Horsham RSL president Gareth Lane, 26-year volunteer Alex Stewart and Lou Rothery, Wimmera Veterans Centre during the celebratory event.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Grampians

Sneek

Stawell

Eleanor

Stawell

Mitre

Fosters

Sali: direct relief a priority

BY LAUREN HENRY

The State Government’s

Drought Response Taskforce is continuing to work its way through the many requests to help combat Victoria’s growing drought crisis.

The drought taskforce, chaired by Premier Jacinta Allan, has met weekly since its inception in Camperdown, Shepparton and Ballarat, with regional and rural leaders providing insights to address drought concerns.

It has been conferring with industry and government stakeholders and on Friday in Ballarat, met with Federal Agriculture Minister Julie Collins.

Regional Cities Victoria chair Shane Sali, a representative on the taskforce, said the $69-million State Government package included important measures to support Victoria’s primary production industry, but there was still more to do.

RCV is an advocacy group led by the mayors and chief executives of the 10 largest cities in regional Victoria – including Horsham – and provides strategic advice to government, ministers and industry stakeholders.

“The state is relying on Victoria’s regions for food and fibre products to boost the state’s economic prospects – that’s why direct relief to farmers continues to be our priority,” he said.

“We have consistently – with our taskforce counterparts Rural Councils Victoria and the Victorian Farmers Federation – sought additional support measures including council rate relief and an increase to the on-farm drought infrastructure grants.

“We look forward to further announcements from the Victorian government in the coming weeks.”

Cr Sali said grants of up to $5000 for community-led events to promote social connection and mental health awareness, through the Look Over The Farm Gate farmer mental health and wellbeing program managed by the National Centre for Farmer Health on behalf of the government, should also be available to councils.

“Local councils have a grassroots understanding of their communities and bringing people together when things are tough is what they do best,” he said.

Cr Sali said there was significant concern about a lack of future investment in community infrastruc-

ture, about critical workforce shortages, and about housing and services needed to accommodate the thousands of extra people forecasted to live in regional Victoria every year.

“While the Emergency Services Volunteer Fund levy has been paused for 12 months, there is still significant stress being felt regarding its eventual rollout and the financial impacts it will have on primary producers and regional and rural areas more broadly as they recover from drought,” he said.

Rural Councils Victoria, which includes Hindmarsh, Northern Grampians, West Wimmera and Yarriambiack councils, is represented on the taskforce by RCV deputy chair Kate Makin, who is also the mayor of Corangamite Shire.

While Cr Makin welcomed the taskforce’s announcement to speed up access to interstate fodder, expand fodder delivery routes and fast-track kangaroo control permits for rural landholders, she warned ‘significant challenges remain unresolved’.

“These are steps in the right direction, but there’s still a mighty long way to go,” she said.

Key steps

Cr Makin said key matters the taskforce still needed to deliver on were subsidised council rates; fair loans; and ongoing council support.

“We need to be talking about how to deliver fully-funded rate subsidies for primary producers in drought zones, zero interest loans that don’t need to be matched by farmers, and direct funding for councils to boost local support programs and infrastructure spending,” she said.

“These are common sense measures that would help farmers and local economies immediately.’

Cr Makin said other challenges raised by rural councils included the need for greater access to emergency water supplies, including assistance with delivery; household allowances to support families through hardship; boosted mental health support; a relaxation of roadside grazing rules; expansion of the Rural Financial Counselling Service; more flexibility in the criteria for on-farm infrastructure support; and additional support for community events and informal social opportunities to strengthen social bonds and reduce isolation.

Agriculture Minister Ros Spence announced earlier this month the opening of the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants program state-

INFORMED: Telangatuk East sheep farmers Peter and Daniel Rogers hosted Horsham Mayor Ian Ross, Regional Cities Victoria chair Shane Sali, and Crs Rebecca Sluggett and Brian Klowss when the group toured farms to show Cr Sali the drought conditions across the Horsham municipality ahead of his first Drought Response Taskforce meeting. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

wide, with updated guidelines based on farmer feedback and expanded eligible activities.

The program, managed by Rural Finance, makes available cocontribution grants of $5000 for all primary producers across the state, with $10,000 available for eligible farmers in southwest Victoria and parts of West Wimmera, to help those who have been in drought longer.

Eligible activities under the grant program now include pasture reestablishment and water carting.

Ms Spence said the government was ‘listening to what farmers are telling us and tailoring our support to meet their needs’.

Meanwhile, the Victorian Farmers Federation is urging the government to deliver immediate support to drought-affected livestock producers by introducing a targeted rebate scheme for fallen stock collection costs.

The VFF has made the request as it continues to work to ensure a longterm, sustainable solution for animal disposal across the state.

The call comes as a new user-pays trial for fallen stock services begins across western Victoria from June.

The VFF has flagged the risks of inadequate fallen stock infrastructure, including animal welfare breaches, biosecurity exposure, and environmental harm.

VFF president Brett Hosking also welcomed the announcement of a streamlined permit system for kangaroo management and fodder deliveries and an expanded road

Celebration of health leaders

Wimmera registered nurse and diabetes educator Lesley Robinson was recognised as the outstanding contribution to rural allied health award winner at the Victorian Rural Health Awards last week.

Now transitioned to retirement, Mrs Robinson’s 38-years-plus career included 25 years dedicated to diabetes education in rural Victoria, at both West Wimmera Health Service and Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Cooperative in Horsham.

Doctor David Wilson, of Lister House Medical Clinic, Horsham, was also recognised for a length of service award with more than 34 years dedicated to rural healthcare in Horsham.

The awards, announced virtually on Thursday, were presented by the Rural Workforce Agency Victoria in partnership with the Victorian Department of Health, and honour the outstanding achievements of health professionals serving rural and regional communities across the state.

train network in south-west Victoria.

Mr Hosking said farmers in the south west could not buy fodder quick enough.

“This expanded road train network will remove red-tape and allow larger trucks into the region to deliver much-needed fodder for stock,” he said.

“Farmers and transporters have been telling us the barriers around getting fodder into these drought-hit areas in the quantities needed has been one of their major frustrations and this move will go a long way to fixing that.”

Mr Hosking said the move to enhance measures to improve the management of kangaroo populations and streamline the Authority to Control Wildlife permit process was also welcome.

“These updates reflect growing concern across rural and regional communities about the impact of overabundant kangaroos on pasture availability, animal welfare, in the light of a sustained drought across Victoria,” he said.

“This is a great example of industry, farmers, regulators and the government working together to get things done. The impact of this drought will be with us for some time and we need to ensure all levers are pulled to support those doing it tough.”

For more information about available drought support, people can visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons or call 136 186.

• For more agriculture stories, see this week’s AgLife, from page 31.

Mrs Robinson’s role as a credentialled diabetes educator has involved helping people living with diabetes – or those at risk of developing it – better understand their condition and empowering them to take control of their health.

One of her career highlights was working with the Diabetes Technology Research Group at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, who help improve the lives of people with diabetes through research that drives advancement in innovative technologies. As a firm believer in the benefits of technology in helping clients to better manage their diabetes, Mrs Robinson strongly advocates for better funding and access to insulin pump therapy and continuous glucose monitoring. She was also named Victorian Credentialled Diabetes Educator of the Year in 2023.

Other Wimmera finalists in the outstanding contribution to rural allied health award were Grampians Health’s Kelsey Morcombe, Kirby Egan and Sarah Hewitt.

Dr Wilson, initially a general practitioner, later specialised in obstetrics, paediatrics, and supervision, training other GPs. He served as the director of intern training at Wimmera Base Hospital for more than 20 years, and now leads general ruralist training in paediatrics and palliative care. His commitment extends to educating nursing and midwifery students. Dr Wilson has also worked as a police surgeon supporting forensic investigations, and organised an asthma camp for children with asthma in Mildura.

Other Wimmera health care professionals named finalists were Horsham’s Lister House Medical Clinic’s Amanda Wilson in two categories; outstanding contribution by a rural primary care nurse or midwife, and outstanding contribution to rural healthcare practice management; and Grampians Health Horsham’s Zara Humphreys, outstanding contribution by a mentor or supervisor category.

Past, present in build

Horsham’s Ss Michael and John’s

Primary School hopes to have a new building dedicated to science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics education, opened for the 2027 school year.

The school will build the specialist space, as well as expand its current learning area, to cater for a growing demand in enrolments.

With 312 students this year, the current building, which opened in November, 2010, was nearing capacity.

As part of the redevelopment, four wings of the existing building will be altered to allow for the expansion of classrooms and changes to toilets, while the portable buildings will be removed to make way for the new STEAM building.

There will also be a sanctuary garden space to connect the new building to the existing learning space, with the entire redevelopment described as ‘ a cycle of completion’ for the school.

SSMJ received a $3.6-million grant, as part of the State Government’s $243-million building fund for nongovernment schools announced last

year, and will also contribute its own money to the $5-million project.

Principal Louise Chesterfield said incorporating the past and the history of Catholic education buildings in Horsham was important to the new build.

“It’s important we are holding true to who we are, that identity, and that the children are at the centre of all of the decisions that we make,” she said.

“Losing the convent was really hard – that was a beautiful building – but to continue to take that story across, and take it into our new build again, which is what we were able to do last time by taking across all the foundation stones and the beautiful stained-glass windows that sat in the chapel, the way that we’ve designed the new building – it’s retaining our philosophy and the way that we collaborate and work and learn together, which is really important to us.”

Mrs Chesterfield said she was ‘incredibly grateful’ to a young couple who had 2500 bricks from the Brigidine Convent that was formerly situated on the school’s site.

“If anybody else has a store of the old convent bricks, we’d love to hear from them – pick up the phone and give us a ring, because if we can get any more, we would absolutely love them,” she said.

Mrs Chesterfield said the convent bricks would be incorporated into the design of the new building, which would be a feature at the corner of McPherson and McLachlan streets.

With the central Horsham school effectively land-locked, the school has

set a cap of 350 students. Mrs Chesterfield said the school had experienced a growth in enrolment numbers in recent years – placing pressure on its existing classrooms.

“It’s the balance between being welcoming, inclusive, and taking people in, but retaining that sense of community, family and connection to all of the kids and families, and I think that’s always been part of who we are and we need to hold true to that,” she said.

“I think Horsham needs a rich and

EXPANSION: Foundation students, from left, Elise Mayes, Evelyn Russell, Louis Hendy and Finn Bowey, with Ss Michael and John’s Primary School principal Louise Chesterfield, show plans for a new STEAM building at the school.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

diverse range of schools because that’s also what draws people to a town. I want Horsham to be a thriving community as well.

“This is the part we play in the educational story of Horsham – everyone offers things in a little bit of a different way, but I want all schools thriving.” The development is currently in the planning phase, with the school hosting information sessions for families as they plan to put the project out for tender.

New Bill ‘acquisition by stealth’

Wimmera farmers are digging in their heels against the State Government’s newest bid to legislate for transmission project workers to gain access to private land.

Energy and Resources Minister Lily D’Ambrosio announced on Friday that she would introduce a National Electricity, Victoria, Amendment, Stage Two VicGrid, Bill, in what she said would ‘further strengthen VicGrid as the body responsible for the planning and development of Renewable Energy Zones and transmission infrastructure in Victoria’.

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

The new legislation will enable authorities to fine people up to $1200 if they try to hinder work, including removing work permit signs, barring access to farmland and refusing to identify themselves to authorised officers.

The legislation includes a provision ‘that enables authorised officers, accompanied by officers of electricity corporations, to enter private land without owner or occupier consent’.

Labor is expected to introduce the Bill to Parliament this week.

The Bill will transfer responsibility for

transmission network planning from the Australian Energy Market Operator to VicGrid, enabling VicGrid to implement the 2025 Victorian Transmission Plan.

The Bill also introduces new network access arrangements for VicGrid to manage access to the grid.

Farmer Ben Duxson is a long-time opponent to the VNI West project, which will affect his property at Wallaloo near Marnoo, said landowners would not allow contractors access to their land.

“Contractors need to understand that the State Government doesn’t have the landholders’ consent for any of this,” he said.

“We’re already a few contractors pull out of trying to put in a tender for VNI West and it’s a complete mess that the government is trying to railroad and bully their way onto our land.

“Premier Jacinta Allan and the Labor government look as though they’re changing the legislation now to compulsory acquire by stealth, which is really underhanded and something the landholders aren’t going to put up with.”

Mr Duxson said the government had taken away landowners’ rights throughout the process, including barring farmers from taking the matter to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, VCAT.

“When you’re backed into the corner, you come out fighting and we know they don’t want a showdown with us, but that’s where it’s going to come to – a showdown

at the gate,” he said. “The mood is that the reason we’re so strong in this is that because it doesn’t work, the energy policy that this government is putting forward doesn’t work.

“We’ll back ourselves and until they forcefully remove all the people up and down the line.”

Mr Duxson heads the Wallalloo and Gre Gre District Alliance, opposing the VNI West project, which proposes a high-capacity, double-circuit overhead transmission line, forming a conduit between the Western Renewables Link project at Bulgana, east of Stawell, to New South Wales.

Ms D’Ambrosio said the government had heard from regional communities that would host new energy infrastructure that the benefits of the energy transition needed to be shared fairly.

“The REZ Community Energy Funds will support projects and initiatives that improve energy supply, efficiency, and affordability for the host regions,” she said.

“Local host communities will identify and help design projects that will best benefit them.”

Ms D’Ambrosio said the final details of the funds would be formalised through further legislation later this year.

“Landowners already receive full and fair compensation under the Land Acquisition and Compensation Act with an additional $8000 per kilometre per year to ensure that they are financially better off,” she said.

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St Arnaud Kindergarten now taking enrolments

St Arnaud Kindergarten is now taking enrolments for 2026.

Enrolments are open for both three-year-old kindergarten and Pre-Prep (formerly four-year-old kindergarten).

The kindergarten offers an inclusive indoor-outdoor environment. Its play-based curriculum, led by bachelor-qualified teachers, fosters opportunities for children to create, experiment, discover, explore, investigate, express ideas and solve problems with support from their teachers.

To enrol your child, please refer to the QR code and link above.

Further information regarding kindergarten will be available later in the year

If you have any inquiries in the meantime, you can call the kindergarten on (03) 5495 4666 or email staccp@ngshire.vic.gov.au

Northern Grampians Shire Council Community Updates

We are seeking volunteers for our Visitor Information Centres in St Arnaud, Stawell and Halls Gap. Want to share your knowledge of our region to ensure people enjoy a visit to remember? You can apply online at https://ngshire.elmotalent. com.au/careers or call Julie Gibson on (03) 5358 8700 or email julie.gibson@ngshire.vic.gov.au for more information.

Grampians Multicultural Hub and Stawell Library are hosting a ‘multicultural women’s get-together’ at the library on July 5, from 2pm to 4pm.

Council will host a Discovery Workshop in Halls Gap, designed to help establish a long-term vision for the town. The workshop is on Tuesday, July 22 from 5pm to 7pm. More information, including how to register, is available in the events section of our website.

Halls Gap is in the running to be crowned Victoria’s Top Tiny Tourism Town for 2025 - and you can help. Public voting is now open and people who vote via www.vtic.com.au/toptourismtown/2025finalists/ halls-gap/ by this Friday, June 27 will go in the running to win a luxury Melbourne escape. Council's Community Care team is seeking expressions of interest from volunteers to help with Meals-on-Wheels delivery. If you are interested in helping us provide this essential service for one hour a week, call our Customer Service team on (03) 5358 8700.

There will be a link to the livestream on our website and Facebook page.

Career Opportunity Coordinator Strategic Planning

Northern Grampians Shire Council is seeking a suitably qualified applicant to fulfill the role of Coordinator Strategic Planning. This position plays a lead role in coordinating the Strategic Planning and Economic Development work program, ensuring alignment with council’s strategic plans and priorities. Objectives are to coordinate the development of strategic land use, planning and economic development projects and plans to facilitate successful planning outcomes, and foster economic growth, investment and business sustainability. A tertiary qualification in Urban Planning or other relevant field, and substantial experience working in strategic planning is required. To find out more and apply, please visit our website.

Next council meeting: Monday, July 7 in the Council Chambers, Pleasant Creek Historic Precinct, Stawell, at 12.30pm. The meeting is open to the public and will be livestreamed via our YouTube channel.

Art Is …finished, new festival starts

The Art Is … Festival has ended, although its three-decade legacy of bringing groups in the Horsham region together for participation and inclusiveness will continue in a new festival, announced last week.

Former festival director Alistair Shaw said Art Is … Festival funding, as well as volunteer numbers, had decreased, prompting the event’s end.

“We were quite well-supported financially by Creative Victoria, but we could not attract crowds during COVID-19, which affected funding,” he said.

“But things will emerge to fill this space – there are other festivals that grew out of Art Is … such as the Nati Frinj, and Wimmera Steampunk.”

The festival was farewelled at Hor-

sham’s JRS Workshop on Tuesday last week, where workshop general manager Shaine Hobbs said it went out ‘with a bang’.

“This would have been the fourth year we opened for the Art Is … Festival, and because our participants had been working on their pieces for a year already, I decided we were going to go out with a bang – I didn’t want the participants to miss out,” she said.

Workshop participants are from a range of backgrounds, including children’s workshops, people with a disability, and members of the public.

The workshop’s JR Crew announced the launch of the Unique Arts Ability Festival at last week’s event.

“It will be similar to the Art Is … Festival, we want the whole community to be involved, along with other

ONGOING: Jaali Randall, Amy

the Art Is..

galleries, artists and businesses in the area. We don’t want the festival to stop. We will run it with the JR Crew to fundraise for Tri State Games athletes,” Ms Hobbs said.

Mr Shaw said he was confident the new festival, with its connections to businesses and community, would succeed.

“Something based out of JRS Workshop, where there is bricks and mortar, but also permanent people, has got all the makings for it to happen,” he said.

“It was a really nice farewell JRS did for us. It reminded us that inclusion and diversity had always been a feature of the festival.”

• Mark Radford letter, page 11

Benbow, Alistair Shaw and Jamie-Lea Novley preparing

Festival farewell at JRS Workshop in Horsham. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Art Is ... live music.

Picture: Mark Radford

Art Is ... puppet.

Picture: Mark Radford

Dear Ararat Rural City community,

We are reaching out to you with an important message regarding the new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund, ESVF, and to clearly share council’s position on a matter we know will impact our entire community.

We are deeply concerned about the State Government’s decision to continue to implement this new tax, as we know many in our community are.

We acknowledge the unfair impacts that its introduction will have on all ratepayers, including our farmers, local business, those living on fixed incomes, renters, and families.

Everyone will be affected by this. Our local businesses will suffer as families, already struggling with the rising cost of living, reduce their spending.

Our local clubs and community groups will also feel the impact. They’ll face reduced funding from sponsorships and donations, and fewer people may have the time to volunteer.

The ripple effect of this new tax on our local economy will be profound.

It will drain millions of dollars from our community, with no guarantee that these funds will be reinvested back into rural areas.

What we’ve been doing

At our council meeting on February 25, council unanimously passed a motion condemning the ESVF.

We took this strong stance because we firmly believe it will place an unfair burden on our primary producers and impose an excessively steep increase on all ratepayers across our community.

We’ve maintained a consistent media campaign to drive awareness of this unfair levy beyond our region, including engaging with metropolitan audiences.

Councillors have also taken significant public action. Our Mayor, Cr Jo Armstrong, was among several coun-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

cillors who attended a Melbourne rally and spoke about the ESVF’s detrimental impacts on rural communities, as well as joining other regional mayors at events to amplify shared concerns.

We’ve lobbied State Government Legislative Council members through numerous letters, strongly advocating against this new tax.

What we know

The Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund will come into effect from July 1, 2025, and you’ll see it as a charge on your upcoming council rates notice. It’s important the community understands that this isn’t a council tax, we are legally obligated to collect it on behalf of the State Government.

We want to make it clear that while council is legally obligated to collect the ESVF on behalf of the State Government, we have consistently and strongly advocated against its introduction due to our deep concerns about its impact on our community and we will continue to do so.

Following an announcement by the State Government last month, the variable rate for primary production properties will now be frozen for the next 12 months at the 2024-25 financial year amount – 28.7 cents per $1000 CIV. This rate will be automatically applied to rates notices for primary production properties.

This only offers a temporary reprieve for our farmers and does not ease the pressure on all other ratepayers, many of whom are feeling the pinch during these challenging economic times.

The ESVF will impose a 99 per cent variable rate increase on residential properties, a 100 per cent increase for commercial ratepayers, and a 64 per cent increase for industrial properties.

Eligible CFA and VICSES volunteers and life members will be entitled to a rebate on the ESVF on their principal place of residence or farm, which will be administered by the Department of Government Services.

We encourage all CFA and VICSES volunteers to explore this. More information can be found on the Eligible Volunteers Rebate Scheme page on the Victorian government website: www.vic.gov.au/ Eligible-Volunteers-Rebate-Scheme. What this means for our community Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as ‘we won’t pay it’. It’s important to understand that council does not have control over how the money you pay towards your rates notice is distributed. We are still legally obligated to pay a proportion of your rates payment to the State Government.

While the ESVF tax amount will be clearly differentiated from council’s rates on your rates notice, which will include municipal and waste charges, it isn’t possible to invoice the ESVF separately.

If we are not able to collect the ESVF from ratepayers, the shortfall must come from council’s own budget. This will greatly impact our financial sustainability and our ability to serve our community. It will also risk ratepayers falling into arrears.

If you’re genuinely having difficulty paying your rates, please reach out as there are measures in place to assist you. We want to help our residents who are experiencing financial hardship. Payment plans can be arranged by contacting council’s rates department on 5355 0209 or email rates@ararat. vic.gov.au.

With concern for the potential impact on the mental health and wellbeing of its residents, council wishes to ensure those affected are aware of the following available support services.

For mental health support, residents are encouraged to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au.

For financial assistance and wellbeing support, the Rural Financial Counselling Service can be reached at 1300 735 578 or via their website at wswrcs. com.au.

Relationships crumble

Renewable

energy and mining projects on agricultural land continue to cause division in the region.

The latest relationship to crumble is between Horsham Rural City Council and Wimmera Southern Mallee Development.

Horsham council voted to reduce its financial contribution as a member council to $100,000 – a marked decrease to the $235,129 paid in the 2024-25 financial year.

Cr Cameron McDonald, Horsham council’s appointed director of the WSMD, proposed to reduce the amount even further than recommended by council’s communities and place director Kevin O’Brien.

Mr O’Brien’s recommendation was for council to decrease its annual contribution to $150,000, contingent on WMSD delivering key priorities of council as follows: development of agriculture sector, workforce development, regional development, regional leadership, drought resilience and telecommunications.

Mr O’Brien had also recommended giving WSMD a second chance by requesting quarterly progress reports, outlining its achievements of the council’s listed priorities.

However, Cr McDonald was not so forgiving – amending the motion to give notice to discontinue its membership as of June, 2026.

It was intriguing listening to Cr McDonald at council’s meeting on Monday evening.

He said he believed only one council would remain as a member of the WSMD come next year.

Horsham council’s main gripe with WSMD was a misalignment with its strategic priorities. Since the new council was elected in October, there has been a notable shift in its decisionmaking around any issues related to agriculture.

It has shown a pro-argriculture stance on suspending its Memorandum of Understanding with WIM Resource, its strong declaration against the Emergency Services Volunteer Fund levy, and this week, its change to the rates differential system in favour of farmers.

Horsham council’s decision to leave WSMD

What we’re doing next Council maintains its strong objection to the introduction of the Emergency Services Volunteer Fund.

We will continue to work with the Municipal Association of Victoria, other councils and groups such as the Victorian Farmers’ Federation, to oppose the implementation of the ESVF in its current form.

We will not give up. We will continue to advocate to the State Government for a fairer outcome for Ararat Rural City residents.

Ararat Rural City Councillors Mayor, Cr Jo Armstrong

Deputy Mayor, Cr Bob Sanders

Cr Rob Armstrong

Cr Peter Joyce

Cr Teli Kaur

Cr Luke Preston

Cr Bill Waterston

Art Is ... farewelled

I just wanted to share some thoughts as we say goodbye to Horsham’s Art Is … Festival.

For many years in Horsham, and the surrounding communities, the Art Is … Festival has had a positive influence on a lot of people.

The festival has achieved two significant things for the local arts community:

• It has created the opportunity for professional artists and performers to visit Horsham … to inspire and entertain.

• It has created the opportunity for local, amateur artists to ‘have a go’ and present their creations or perform their music, song or dance ... to inspire rehearsal and to entertain.

The important role the festival has had with both primary and secondary students in our community should also not be underestimated.

It has been a journey.

Art Is … live music, dancing, singing of all sorts, magic acts, circus acts.

Art Is … portrait painting, landscape

EDITORIAL

By Lauren Henry

aligns with those farmers against renewable energy and mining projects.

Several farmers and groups against renewables and mining on agricultural land have been critical of WSMD in recent times.

While agriculture makes up part of WSMD’s priorities, it focuses on a wide variety of priorities and projects for the region, and has advocated for the diversification of industries.

In light of the growing opposition to renewable energy development in the region – rightly or wrongly, those seen to be on the side of the companies looking to establish projects are risking major pushback.

While WSMD has tried to be a conduit between the community, councils, renewable and mining projects and governments, its advocacy on attracting renewables could come at a cost for not only WSMD, but the greater good of the region.

With more issues than ever to advocate for at both a state and federal government level, the Wimmera-southern Mallee region needs a group or organisation to go in to bat for the wider region.

The region needs an organisation or alliance that delivers a more powerful, unified voice – not a disjointed, divided representation.

And where does it leave those councils leaving WSMD?

All councils, but particularly Horsham, will need to quickly look at their own economic development capabilities – their personnel, their strategic approach and how they will go about attracting significant investment and large-scale businesses to their municipality.

painting, still life painting, drawing, making, melting, cooking and even talking trees.

Art Is ... photography classes, competitions, portrait taking, landscape capturing and the shop-window art gallery.

Art Is … working with our local indigenous families to highlight their ‘art’ and ‘culture’ in our community.

Art Is … building ‘big’ things in unusual places, playing games, making things, telling stories, lighting things up, composing, filming, recording, performing on stage, in the street or on the ground.

And ... lots of other activities including making friends and having some fun together.

Community events like this rely on a pool of enthusiastic volunteers … and this can be challenge.

A regional city, the size of Horsham, should have its own arts festival, supported by the local council and the State Government.

Looking to the future, a few thoughts to consider:

• Reducing the size of the festival to a Friday-Saturday-Sunday. With everything packed into the three days … including working with the primary schools.

• Move to every second year. Maybe there is an opportunity to ‘take turns’ with the Dimboola Steampunk Festival or the Natimuk Fringe.

• Move the date to a warmer time of the year, away from late May-June. Finally, just a word of appreciation to the many festival directors, committee members and volunteers, local businesses, Horsham Rural City Council, Regional Arts Victoria and other supporters and local business sponsors, who over the journey have contributed to a series of very good, creative and entertaining local arts festivals. Mark Radford, Quantong

Council vows to keep fighting tax

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Ararat Rural City councillors vowed to continue fighting a State Government Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund, ESVF, charge at a meeting last week.

The council has already voiced its opposition to the levy, which the government passed last month to replace the previous Fire Services Property Levy from July 1.

At last week’s meeting councillors voted unanimously to work with the Municipal Association of Victoria, MAV, to oppose the levy, as well as to publish an open letter to the Ararat Rural City community outlining their opposition.

Cr Rob Armstrong labelled the ESVF’s passage ‘really disappointing’.

While the State Government said the charge, which is set to be collected by councils through their annual rates, would support a range of emergency services, Cr Armstrong questioned how much money many organisations would receive.

“In the 2025-26 budget, CFA is losing $41-million, VICSES are losing $8-million, Fire Rescue Victoria are losing $114-million, Triple Zero is losing $78-million,” he said.

“It’s very unfair that we should even have to think about paying this tax, because it isn’t going to any emergency services, it’s actually being taken away from emergency services and it’s only because of very mismanaged finances that we’re in this situation.”

Mayor Jo Armstrong said while the State Government had agreed to preserve a variable charge for primary production land under the ESVF to the same levels – 28.7 cents per $1000 of capital improved value – for the 2025-26 financial year, residential properties would see a 99 per cent increase in their variable charges, commercial property owners would pay a 100 per cent increase and industrial properties would see their

“Ararat Rural City Council is taking a leading role in disputing this tax. It’s an unfair tax, and it’s important that we do everything we can for our community to ensure this tax is stopped at the first possible point”

– Cr Peter Joyce

variable charges rise by 64 per cent. Cr Peter Joyce said the council wanted the community to understand it opposed the ESVF.

“It’s important Ararat Rural City community understands just how much we disagree with this tax and that we’re going to fight this tax all the way,” he said.

“I want to acknowledge Cr Rob Armstrong and mayor Jo Armstrong and other councillors who attended the rally against the ESVF in Melbourne … and spoke at the podium.

“Ararat Rural City Council is taking a leading role in disputing this tax.

“It’s an unfair tax, and it’s important that we do everything we can for our community to ensure this tax is stopped at the first possible point.”

Cr Rob Armstrong said working with MAV, as well as other groups including the Victorian Farmers Federation, had potential to put pressure on the government to revise or withdraw the charge.

“There’s a lot of stuff out there at the moment where councils in Victoria, including in metropolitan Melbourne as well, aren’t prepared to pay this levy,” he said.

“There’s a lot of councils in Melbourne that have just said ‘no, we’re not paying it either’.

“All the councils need to band together and fight this as one. If we do that we can probably change a lot of things.”

• Letter, page 11.

Gallery trust in good hands

After more than a decade of service, Rhonda Tursi has stepped down as chair of Horsham Regional Art Gallery Trust.

Ms Tursi has served as a trustee since 2011 and chair since 2014, bringing strong financial expertise and passion for the arts to her role.

As a certified practising accountant and registered tax agent, Ms Tursi played a key role in managing the gallery’s trusts, which support the ongoing acquisition of artworks for the Horsham Regional Art Gallery collection.

The collection, funded through the Horsham Art Gallery Trust Fund, has been growing since 1967 and now holds more than 2500 works focused on Australian photography, the Wimmera and its artists, and the Mack Jost collection of Australian paintings and works on paper.

Horsham Mayor Ian Ross praised Ms Tursi’s enduring commitment and leadership.

“Rhonda’s legacy at the gallery is extraordinary, he said.

“Her strategic vision, financial acumen, and deep passion for the arts have made a meaningful and lasting contribution to the region’s arts community.”

Ms Tursi will hand over the role of chair to fellow trustee Rodney Schulz, ensuring a smooth transition and continued strong governance.

“We are confident the gallery is in good hands going forward,” Cr Ross said.

“Rhonda’s legacy will continue to inspire, and we look forward to seeing the collection and the gallery thrive into the future.”

LASTING LEGACY: Departing chair and trustee Rhonda Tursi, incumbent trustee chair Rodney Schulz, and trustee Pam Clarke.

You

• be part of the new Victorian government-run early learning and childcare centres

• foster children’s development and wellbeing in our high-quality learning environments

• build your career with access to professional learning and development opportunities.

Drive for independence

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Horsham-based

Daniel Ross has won first place in a global competition for his business’s work.

Mr Ross is also on the eve of launching another business, both of which assist people with disabilities to be independent.

Mr Ross’ original business Financial Literacy Australia was named ‘best fintech by a for profit organisation’ in the global Money Awareness and Inclusion Awards, announced at a ceremony in Singapore last month.

The business provides an accessible and engaging online service, delivered via an app, to support NDIS participants to achieve their goals through self-paced interactive, gamified activities.

The app also empowers participants to build independence, reduce the likelihood of financial abuse and scams, and avoid financial hardship.

Mr Ross said winning the award was an incredible honour.

“It truly highlights how much impact and innovation a bootstrapped Aussie tech startup from a regional town like Horsham can have,” he said.

Formerly a financial counsellor, Mr Ross said his new business was a similar concept.

“Life Goals Australia is based around individual goals and building to independence,” he said.

“For example, if someone wants to learn how to use a washing

“It truly highlights how much impact and innovation a bootstrapped Aussie tech startup from a regional town like Horsham can have”

holiday fun

Hindmarsh Shire Council will host a funfilled and diverse program for the July school holidays.

Young people across the shire can look forward to hands-on science sessions with Jess and Ellen in libraries, and unleash their inner artist with painting workshops led by talented youth councillor, Matilda. There will also be yoga and badminton sessions, as well as creative lessons with clay at Dimboola Pottery.

The program includes two family-friendly movie screenings of How to Train Your Dragon and Elio, and animal-lovers will not want to miss a visit to Tiny Goats and Co.

Gamers can enjoy a variety of interactive experiences at Level-Up Gaming at Jeparit, and for those with a green thumb, there’s a unique opportunity to create a Kokedama – a traditional Japanese art form where plants are grown in moss-covered soil balls – at workshops in Nhill and Rainbow.

GLOBAL AWARD: Daniel Ross’ tech-startup Financial Literacy Australia won ‘best fintech’ at the global Money Awareness and Inclusion Awards in Singapore.

machine, or save money for a laptop or a car, using the app with the guidance of a support worker, the participant can work towards it achieving that.”

The app features voice to text function, visuals, more than 2500 lessons and can be tailored to an individual’s goals.

The app can be used under the

NDIS, as well as under the new Foundational Supports, which will be rolled out from July 1.

Mr Ross said he started his businesses owing to demand.

“I found people wanted help with capacity-building – there was a gap in the market,” he said.

“That’s when I started Financial Literacy Australia, but it has been

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

very hard, launching something no one else has done in the space.

“People can use the app at home, in their own time, with their support workers or family members, and achieve their own goals.”

People who would like more information can visit Financial Literacy Australia website at flaus. com.au.

Hindmarsh Mayor Ron Ismay said activities and events would be held over both weeks of the holidays, and people were encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.

“We’re proud to offer such a fun, creative, and inclusive program for young people across Hindmarsh,” he said.

“We encourage families to get involved, try something new, and make the most of these fantastic local opportunities.”

People can book by visiting www. hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/Community/SchoolHoliday-Program.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION & CAREWIMMERA SOUTHERN MALLEE ‘EVERY CHILD SUCCEEDS IN LEARNING AND LIFE’

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION & CAREWIMMERA SOUTHERN MALLEE

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION & CAREWIMMERA SOUTHERN MALLEE ‘EVERY CHILD SUCCEEDS IN LEARNING AND LIFE’

‘EVERY CHILD SUCCEEDS IN LEARNING AND LIFE’

“ECEC

Stephanie Powell Educator ~ Warracknabeal Kindergarten

“Being

“ECEC makes a difference in my community because people understand the importance of educating children from an early age, helping children grow and develop skills and friendships.”

Stephanie finds it rewarding to watch children learn new skills and grow every day and has been in the profession for four years after studying Certificate III in Early Childhood Education.

Stephanie

Stephanie Powell

“Being an educator is about being open minded, passionate and easy going. It is vital for a strong, connected community.”

Learn

Learn the steps needed to start or develop your ECEC career

Stephanie Powell Educator ~ Warracknabeal Kindergarten or visit here

visit here

Stephanie Powell Educator ~ Warracknabeal Kindergarten or visit here

If you are ready to make a difference in your community (and soak up a few sunflower compliments) a career in Early Childhood might be for you. ECEC professionals are in high demand across the Wimmera. Come and visit us!

Stephanie Powell Educator ~ Warracknabeal Kindergarten or visit here

Horsham a second home for Theo

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Rotary exchange student Theo Solenghi arrived in Horsham from Frenchspeaking Switzerland about 10 months ago, keen to absorb the Australian culture and learn English.

“I’ve been learning Australian, too, which is a bit different,” Theo said.

He immediately found differences in landscape, and between the lifestyles of his host families, compared with living with his parents and brother, Nathan, and with his grandmother a neighbour.

“I didn’t know when I came who I was going to stay with, but it was pretty good, because my first family, Pam and Michael Clarke, were retired people. They could take the time to explain to me just every single thing, including the Australian slang words,” Theo said.

“Then I changed to Suzanne Bysouth and Mark Crafter, who worked, and I had three sisters, so it was just a bit different.

“I came from retired people to this wild environment – I had to book for five minutes in the shower.”

His final family was Wade and Lynette Morrow, who introduced him to different experiences including trips to see their adult children living in different cities.

Theo has spent time with other Rotary exchange students, making connections and travelling the country.

“In Switzerland, everything is one hour away, so, it doesn’t really matter that much. Here, just down the road is two hours away,” he said.

“It was a bit surprising when I came to Horsham from the airport and had three hours’ drive to go home.”

Attending Horsham College, Theo said school between the two countries differed – his time in Australia will mean he will finish school at the age of 21, rather than 20, before he starts university.

“School back in Switzerland starts one hour earlier and probably finishes one hour later, and the workload is probably a bit different as well,” he said.

“Students here are working jobs at 14 years old, but at home, if students are studying still they will not get a job very often because you have just too much work.”

Theo has maintained his hobbies while exploring new experiences – a cycling enthusiast, he borrowed a bike to continue his early-morning rides.

“I started waking up at 5am to go at 5.30am for bike rides, which was really good because I was not expecting that I could keep cycling,” he said.

“I’ve had the chance to go surfing a few times too – we don’t have the sea in Switzerland.

“I’ve been well integrated in actually everything here in Horsham.

“Thanks to my friend Remi, he brought me to gymnastics and I really enjoyed doing it.

“I enjoy jumping off stuff and doing flips, but it was a safe way to do it. But I still land on my head sometimes.”

Theo said he would miss the friendships he had forged throughout his stay.

“I’ve been really warmly welcomed by everyone, I really felt like I belonged here,” he said.

“It’s definitely a second home down under, and the warm weather was good, probably not in the 40s, but for the rest it was good.

“I’m going to miss my friends – I really made lifelong connections.”

EXCHANGE: Rotary exchange student Theo Solenghi is nearing the end of his experience, returning to Switzerland at the end of this month.

Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Make the most of resources at Careers Expo

Organisers are inviting people – both school students and adults wanting to explore career opportunities – to take advantage of the knowledge and expertise on offer at this year’s Western Victorian Careers Expo on Tuesday.

More than 70 businesses, training providers and industry representatives will be in attendance at the Wimmera Events Centre, at Longerenong, providing information and advice on career pathways, job vacancies and training opportunities.

Organiser David Crooks said the free event was a valuable source of support for parents, jobseekers and people considering a career change.

“It’s a common misconception that the careers expo is only relevant to secondary school students. That couldn’t be further from the truth,” he said.

“If you are seeking employment or are unhappy in your current role, this is the ideal setting to explore the different careers that are out there and speak with people who can put you on the right path.

“I’d really encourage any locals in this position to make the most of this amazing opportunity right on their back doorstep.”

Attractions at this year’s expo will include the interactive Try VET Centre located in the Alan Heard Pavilion, guest speakers, a jobs market and hands-on activities.

Mr Crooks said the VIC VICE virtual reality exhibit was expected to prove popular.

“This is cutting edge technology that was developed by Goulburn Murray LLEN in partnership with VICLLENs,” he said.

“Last year, we featured VIC VICE at the Western Victorian Careers Expo for the ﬁrst time and the response was incredible – there were people lining up all day to try out the headsets and experience different workplaces through 360-degree video and video-game style features.

“Our regional LLENs have been enjoying rolling this technology out in local secondary schools and we will have staff from Central

The careers expo will be from 9.30am to 2pm on Tuesday. Free buses will depart from the Horsham YMCA carpark at 10am and return at 12.30pm.

• 90+ 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

Scan here for more information about the Western Victorian Careers Expo 2025

Tuesday, July 1

Wimmera Events Centre, LONGERENONG

Grampians LLEN on hand at this year’s expo to allow the wider community to give it a go.”

Your Career in Sight: VIC VICE is a brand new virtual reality platform where students can explore the world of work.

Theatre travels to regions

LINK Neighbourhood House

Kaniva will stage performances in two towns this year after receiving a $14,000 State Government grant.

The group, in collaboration with Birchip Resource and Learning Centre, will host productions of two shows – Dinosaur Time Machine and Garage Girls – in Kaniva and Birchip across the next two months.

LINK Neighbourhood House Kaniva co-ordinator Sharon Munn said the shows would have broad appeal for both communities.

“We are delighted to bring two exceptional theatre productions to both towns – one designed for children and families, and another crafted to entertain adult audiences,” she said.

“We believe that every community deserves access to enriching cultural experiences, regardless of location.

“This initiative will give children and families in regional areas the chance to enjoy engaging, high-quality theatre right in their own towns – sparking imaginations, fostering creativity, and creating unforgettable memories.”

Dinosaur Time Machine, presented by Highwire Entertainment, is an interactive production allowing children to take an imaginary trip in a giant time machine to get close to a life-sized juvenile T-rex and learn about the ancient world of dinosaurs.

Two performers use circus, puppetry and imagination to give children an interactive and educational experience that blends science and storytelling.

Garage Girls, created by Three

Birds Theatre and The Shift Theatre, is a performance celebrating resilience, creativity, and storytelling.

Focusing on Alice Anderson, a mechanic, trailblazer and entrepreneur,

Garage Girls examines her short but eventful life.

LINK Neighbourhood House Kaniva received money to stage both productions through Creative Victoria’s

Small Regional Presenters grants program, which this year provided grants of between $3000 and $15,000 to 13 community groups.

Creative Industries Minister Colin Brooks said the grants would support a ‘vibrant creative scene’ across regional Victoria.

“Small Regional Presenters adds to the creative calendar, bringing more events to small communities while also building the skills of community presenters and boosting job opportunities for artists,” he said.

Dinosaur Time Machine will be at Kaniva Shire Hall on July 9 at 11am and Birchip on July 10. Tickets are $10 per person or $30 per family.

Garage Girls will be staged at Kaniva Shire Hall on August 13 at 7pm and at Charlton’s Rex Theatre on August 22.

People can call LINK Neighbourhood House Kaniva on 5392 2865 for more information on the Kaniva shows.

What’s Hot in the Pots today?

homemade meals

Improving road safety

A new road-safety program for Ararat Rural City is progressing after preliminary infrastructure-design concepts went before the council at last week’s meeting.

The council has been working with consultant SMEC to develop a series of safety upgrade projects in Ararat aiming to address local road safety concerns. The projects include: a raised intersection with a mountable roundabout at Queen and Moore streets; intersection safety improvements at View Point Street and High Street; a raised intersection at Vincent Street and Alexandra Avenue, and pedestrian priority crossing between Alexandra Avenue and the Alexandra Gardens; and raised pedestrian crossings at Moore Street and Princes Street, Ingor Street and King Street, and View Point Street, Tobin Street and Taylor Street.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the projects, delivered under a Safe Local Roads and Streets Program through the State Government’s Department of Transport and Planning and the Transport Accident Commission – were designed to improve road safety across the municipality.

“Keeping our community safe through ongoing road improvement initiatives is a top priority for council,” he said.

“This series of upgrade projects will deliver significant safety improvements to our local road network.”

Dr Harrison said the program matched local councils with consulting partners to support the scope and develop the design of road-safety projects.

Final detailed designs are due to be completed by the end of July, with works slated to be completed by October 2026.

- take

IMAGINATION: Productions Dinosaur Time Machine, above and Garage Girls, top, will feature in Kaniva and Birchip across the next two months.

Donation gets St Mary ’s moving

World Bicycle Day, June 3, was not only a day aimed at improving wellbeing , quality of life, and creating a more habitable environment, but also the perfect day to announce RNH’s donation of bicycles and scooters to St Mary ’s Catholic Primary School.

Health Promotion Coordinator Tif Devasia said the bikes and scooters were donated as part of an Active Travel program grant, which was co-designed to provide local school communities with ownership over physical activity initiatives.

St Mary ’s students look forward to using their new wheels during their bike education sessions.

Hopetoun duplexes roll in

Our Hopetoun campus has been a hive of activity over the past weeks as our four duplexes arrived on site!

Transported to Hopetoun from the Swan Build base in Swan Hill, the duplexes arrived in a convoy of two pilot vehicles and two semi-trailers.

Split in half for transport, the duplexes were lowered via hydraulics onto large steel screws before a crane lifted the roof – causing quite a stir amongst our residents who were fascinated to watch the entire process unfold.

Once on site, the skilled and efficient Swan Build team worked to re-screw the halves together and ensure that each duplex was safe and secure.

RNH will now work with local contractors to install amenities like electricity, water and plumbing , as well as future concreting and landscaping.

Downturn in Ararat property values

Ageneral valuation report on Ararat Rural City properties for 2025 showed rural and residential property values in the region decreasing, with other property categories increasing at a slower rate than in previous years. The report forms part of an annual process to determine the value of properties across the municipality, used by the council to determine rates for each financial year.

Victoria’s Valuer-General commissioned Ararat-based property valuer Peter Wigg of firm Wigg and Partners to produce the report, which it will audit to confirm it is correct.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the report showed residential property valuations decreased by 2.12 per cent compared to 2024, while rural valuations decreased by 3.58 per cent.

Commercial property valuations increased by 1.98 per cent, and in-

dustrial valuations increased by 0.11 per cent.

“Compared to previous years, we have continued to see notable easing in this year’s valuation report,” Dr Harrison said.

“We’re seeing some reductions in valuations for residential and rural properties, with some minor increases in industrial and commercial properties.

“Overall, these figures suggest the market is finding a stable footing.”

OʼBrien & Smith Lawyers are pleased to announce they have acquired Derbyshire Legal, a respected institution in Stawell.

LAWYERS

As Yvonne Derbyshire steps into a well-earned retirement, O’Brien & Smith Lawyers are excited to continue Derbyshire Legal’s tradition of exceptional legal service. O’Brien & Smith Lawyers extend their heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Yvonne on her retirement and thank her for her continued trust and support.

The team O’Brien & Smith Lawyers will be available to assist you with your legal needs from the same familiar location at 178 Main Street, Stawell from 1 March 2025.

Dr Harrison said residents were able to object if they disagreed with a property valuation on their rates notice.

Objections must be lodged within two months of the date of issue on the rates notice and can be submitted online.

Objectors must still pay rates by the due date, and could be required to pay interest on rates thereafter.

The valuer will discuss valuations with objectors, and objectors will be advised of the outcome of their objec-

tion in writing. If the valuer recommends an amendment to a valuation, it must be approved by the ValuerGeneral.

If landowners are dissatisfied with the final decision, they can appeal to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, VCAT.

People can call the council on 5355 0208 or email rates@ararat.vic.gov. au for further information regarding valuation objections.

It’s a Kinda Magic tour

An international Queen tribute act will play in Horsham next month in celebration of the 50th anniversary of one of the band’s most iconic albums.

Fresh from a tour of Canada, the show Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic, will hit the stage at Horsham Town Hall on July 8 as part of a 34-show tour of Australia.

With 2025 marking 50 years since the release of Queen’s album A Night at the Opera – featuring hits including Bohemian Rhapsody and You’re My Best Friend – lead singer and performer of Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic Warren Vernon-Driscoll said it was a perfect time to tour the tribute show.

Vernon-Driscoll said Bohemian Rhapsody was now widely recognised as Queen’s most iconic song, but had been received with mixed reviews when it was released in 1975.

“It’s one of the biggest and most iconic songs ever written,” he said.

“As a singer and musician, this is the kind of music most people only

dream about performing, and I get to do it all over the world, it’s truly a dream.”

Vernon-Driscoll, a classicallytrained musician who studied with South Africa’s Drakensberg Boys Choir School in the KwaZulu-Natal province where he grew up, said he was ‘incredibly honoured’ to portray Queen frontman Freddie Mercury on stage.

He said he had spent countless hours rehearsing and studying Mercury’s performances in order to play and sing Queen’s songs live and in their original key.

Tickets for the show, which starts at 7pm, are now on sale at Horsham Town Hall website www.horsham townhall.com.au/type/performances. People can also book tickets or find more information about the show at website www.queenitsakindamagic. com.

The team at OʼBrien and Smith Lawyers look forward to assisting with your legal needs, and are happy to announce that Helen Thomson is back from maternity leave and now accepting appointments.

Please note that consultations will be conducted by appointment only to ensure the highest level of service.

To arrange your appointment, kindly contact O’Brien Smith Lawyers’ reception by calling 5381 2222 or visit www.obsl.com.au.

Patrick Smith

Lauren Emblem

Patrick Smith LL.B. (Hons), B. Int. St., B.Ec., GDLP

Helen Thomson LL.B., B.A., GDLP

Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic, will hit the stage at Horsham Town Hall on July 8 as part of a 34-show tour of Australia.

Supporting Our Community

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

The Wimmera Whippets provide football and netball opportunities for participants with a disability. Engaging participants from across the Wimmera (Horsham, Murtoa, Warracknabeal, Nhill, Kaniva and Edenhope) the grant will be used to purchase new footballs. The current footballs being used were second hand balls donated when the program started in 2014. These new balls will allow the participants to better practice their skills at training and execute them on gamedays against the Grampians Giants and South Warrnambool Roosters in the Football Integration Development Association Western Conference.

Mother’s Day Classic

The Horsham Mother’s Day Classic is a cherished walk/run event held along the scenic banks of the Wimmera River. It offers people of all ages a meaningful way to celebrate Mother’s Day while promoting a healthy lifestyle and raising crucial funds and awareness for breast and ovarian cancer. Now in its 16th year, Horsham’s local event has become a vital part of our community’s Mother’s Day tradition. As part of one of Australia’s largest charity events, the Mother’s Day Classic brings people together to honour those affected by breast and ovarian cancer and to support life-saving research. Recognising the challenges many face in attending capital city events, we’re proud to host a local initiative that not only raises vital funds but also provides a space to support and honour those in our own community impacted by these diseases. Over the years, our collective efforts have helped increase the five-year survival rate for breast cancer from 76% to 92% – a remarkable achievement driven by research funded through events like this. With ovarian cancer now included in the Classic, we’re committed to seeing similar progress, with the goal of lifting the current five-year survival rate from 49%. Every dollar raised directly supports improved treatments, leading to better outcomes and brighter futures. We are deeply grateful to West Side Horsham for their generous grant supporting this year’s event. Thanks to your contribution, we’ve purchased four new teardrop flags and will proudly unveil our beautifully updated Tribute Wall – honouring all those touched by breast and ovarian cancer. Your support plays a vital role in making this a meaningful and memorable event for our entire community.

West Side Horsham: Proud to be supporting our locals

Weekdays from 6am

Wimmera Whippets

Students unveil new mural

Apsley Primary School students have helped design and paint a new mural at their school, with the aid of Melbourne-based artist Philip Kalinowski, last month.

The large mural, which adorns a storeroom near the school’s front gates, celebrates both the natural features and values that students associate with the school.

Principal Tanya Turner said Mr Kalinowski involved students throughout the process of creating the mural after agreeing to the project.

“In Edenhope, Georgina Campbell runs an artist residency program where artists come and stay for a month or a few weeks and do things in the community and spend time in the town,” Ms Turner said.

“When we decided we wanted to engage an artist of some sort, Georgina put tenders out to see who was out there.

“Phil put in a tender and he’s a graphic designer and lettering artist, so Georgina thought he’d be a good fit for the project.

“In the first lesson he rolled out a big brown piece of paper and the kids had to draw and write what Apsley Primary School and the wider community meant and represented to them.

“They all put their ideas down on the paper and then Phil took it away and came back with a design that had to then get the tick of approval from the kids and staff.”

Ms Turner said Mr Kalinowski chose elements of the final mural from the students’ initial brainstorming.

PROUD: Apsley Primary School has unveiled a spectacular new mural, bringing renowned artist Philip Kalinowski into the classroom to co-create the artwork with students. Pictured in front of their masterpiece are, back, from left, Kaitlyn Smith, Franklin, Haileigh, James, Tanya Turner, artist Philip Kalinowski, Thomas, Jai and Georgina Campbell; middle, Wesley, Ginny, Florence, Kiiara, Harley, Leela and Emmett; and front, Audrey, Amelia, Elsie, Percy, Fergus and Jedd.

“We had all sorts of things written on there – our school values, the flowering gum and what the school meant to the students,” she said.

“We’d been doing a lot of work with Bronwyn Perryman through BirdLife Australia looking at the redtailed black cockatoo, so that was a feature along with a nature walk that we’ve got.

“He had a few different colour combinations, but the colours we went with were red, burnt orange and yellow. It complemented the colours we’ve got here at the school.”

Mr Kalinowski then stenciled the

final design on the side of the building, working alongside students to help fill it in.

Through professional connections, Mr Kalinowski was able to secure free paint from Dulux’s community donation program.

“Dulux were happy to come on board and support the project by supplying all the paint, which was amazing, because it saved the school a bit of money,” Ms Turner said.

“The kids were involved in painting it, so there’s some real ownership and pride for them with the final mural.

“Even now, they’ll point and say

‘that’s the bit I painted’.” The mural was unveiled on May 30, with community members gathering for a barbecue at the school.

Ms Turner said the mural was so well received the school was already thinking of ways it might collaborate with Mr Kalinowski on future projects.

“We’d love to get him back for another couple of projects, we’re just not sure what,” she said.

“He’s gone back to Melbourne, but don’t worry – we’ve got his contact details.”

Ararat council above average

Ararat Rural City Council leaders are pleased with preliminary findings from a yet-to-be-released 2025 community satisfaction survey, which showed the council performing above the statewide average across every performance measure.

The survey, commissioned by Local Government Victoria and carried out by research agency National Field Services, is part of an annual assessment of community satisfaction across every council in the state.

The survey took place between January and March this year, with a representative sample of 400 Ararat Rural City residents interviewed in an effort to ensure a diverse and inclusive community cross-section was considered.

The survey assesses each council’s performance across a range of measures including customer service, council direction, environmental sustainability, emergency and disaster management, community engagement, and infrastructure improvements.

The complete survey findings are not yet publicly available, but council chief executive Tim Harrison said they would be published on the council’s website in coming weeks.

“These encouraging results confirm we’re on the right track,” he said.

“There is no time for complacency however, as there’s still plenty of work to be done.

“This initiative is a crucial benchmark for council’s performance, and we really appreciate our community’s input.

“The findings provide us with concrete data to ensure that we are continuously delivering improvements across all of council’s service areas.”

ON TRACK: An artist’s impression of St Arnaud Swimming Pool development project, which will be delivered in two stages. Stage one includes a refurbishment of the change rooms, which started last month.

St Arnaud pool redevelopment

The St Arnaud community will be able to enjoy redeveloped swimming pool facilities this summer, with upgrades officially underway.

Northern Grampians Shire Council is delivering the $2.57-million St Arnaud Swimming Pool redevelopment project in two stages.

Stage one includes a refurbishment of the change rooms, which started last month.

Work is on track to be completed in time for the opening of the 2025-26 summer season.

Stage two, which includes repairs to the pool, will start in early 2026 – at the end of the summer period – meaning the peak swimming season will not be inconvenienced by construction works.

Northern Grampians Shire Mayor Karen Hyslop said while the region’s residents would benefit from the redevelopment, the council did not want construction works to restrict access throughout summer.

“The reason we are not delivering both parts at once is to avoid delays that could result in the pool opening late or not at all, which would be disastrous for the community and not a risk we are willing to take,” she said.

“This redevelopment is a big win for the people of St Arnaud and surrounding areas and we are excited about the entire project being completed ahead of the 2026-27 summer season.”

The project is being funded by a $1,947,853 grant from the State Government’s Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund and $650,000 from the council.

Kelly Architects completed the design stage and Build Forth is delivering stage-one works.

“Council engaged with St Arnaud Swimming Club and the schools that use the facility to help determine the project’s priorities and objectives,” Cr Hyslop said.

“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.”

Cr Hyslop said the project was aligned with the council’s Sport and Recreation Strategy 2024-2034.

“A key element of stage two is a new access ramp to the pool, which will help us to support the health, wellbeing and social inclusion of more of our residents,” she said.

Cr Hyslop said swimming pools were wonderful community assets for people of all ages, with more than 8000 visits to the St Arnaud pool throughout the 2024-25 summer period.

“The redevelopment is part of council’s commitment to ensuring we offer the pool facilities our community needs over the swimming period, beyond casually cooling off after school or on a weekend,” she said.

She said the council was always looking for ways to improve or add to services, with swim teachers delivering Learn to Swim lessons for infants and pre-schoolers for the first time during the 2024-25 summer period.

“We had more than 130 students participate across all lessons last season, which is an increase on previous years. We will be looking to run them again when the pool reopens later this year,” she said.

Defensive driver courses at Harrow

Harrow Bush Nursing Centre will host two courses aimed at improving the skills of young drivers next month.

The centre will host Austdrive 1 and Austdrive 2 defensive driver training courses run by the Australian Driving Institute on July 19 and 20, aiming to promote practical on-road safety skills.

Austdrive 1 is aimed at drivers aged 16 and older, focusing on L and P-plate drivers, with L-plate participants required to bring a supervising driver.

Covered in the course are topics including basic car-control skills; emergency braking; safe steering; wildlife dangers; understanding speed, fatigue, alcohol and peer pressure; safe following distances; car modification advice; observation techniques; and emergency collision avoidance.

The course covers: the importance of safe driving and decision making; identifying hazards and risks associated with a range of driving conditions; applying safe driving methods and demonstrating preventative strategies; vehicle

checks, seating, steering, and mirror set up; attitude and driver readiness; early, linear, threshold and split-surface braking principles; line and cornering principles, including approach, entry, apex and exit; driving to conditions; speed limits; and more.

Harrow Neighbourhood House co-ordinator Fiona Treliving said 2025 marked the 13th year Harrow would host the driving courses.

The Austdrive 1 courses are this year subsidised by a VicHealth Growing Healthy Communities Grant, with a cost of $80 per person.

The Austdrive 2 courses are $880, with up to three drivers able to participate under a single booking.

Each course will be from 8.30am to 4.30pm on both July 19 and 20, with bookings available online.

People can book a place in either of the courses by visiting www.austdrive.com/service-page/ austdrive-1-harrow-july-2025, or call Harrow Bush Nursing Centre on 5588 2000 for more information.

Bistro Open 7 Days

11.30am to 2pm & 5.30pm to 8pm (8.30pm on Fri & Sat)

Murtoa Stick Shed, Dave Lennon:

“We received $3000 from the Horsham Sports and Community Club to make the point that Murtoa is a place to stay,” Mr Lennon said.

“We have 24-hour petrol, 24hour money, chemist, grocery store and accommodation.”

“Ninety eight percent of people who visit the stick shed say it’s amazing.”

“Until you’ve been you can’t experience it.”

“Applying for the grant was a dream and we’ll do it again when we have a new project.”

Ararat, Stawell gas network upgrade

Upgrades to gas pipes in Stawell and Ararat formed part of a $40-million investment by energy distributor AusNet to modernise Victoria’s gas network in the past 12 months.

AusNet executive general manager of gas and metering Fran Duiker said the company had upgraded low-pressure mains to high-pressure ones to help mitigate the risk of gas leaks, with many of the Victorian network’s low-pressure mains exceeding 50 years in service.

In Stawell, the company upgraded 11.5 kilometres of existing low-pressure gas mains, replacing existing cast-iron, PVC and galvanised pipes with polyethylene piping capable of withstanding higher pressures.

Ms Duiker said replacement works on Stawell’s Fisher Street were complete, with Napier Street works on track for completion by September and works in Seaby Street set to be completed by February next year.

She said the ongoing works would upgrade 17 additional kilometres of piping in Stawell, with all of the town’s gas network planned to be upgraded to high-pressure pipes by March next year.

About 18 kilometres of piping has also been replaced in Ararat, with plans for an additional 18 kilometres to be completed in coming months.

Ms Duiker said replacement works on Viewpoint and High streets were complete, with

Blake Street works to be finished by the end of 2025, and pipe replacements on Banfield Street targeted to be finished by March.

“AusNet is focused on providing a safe and reliable gas network for our customers and preparing the network for peak periods during winter. One of the ways we do this is by replacing older gas mains,” she said.

“Leaks and blockages, although rare, can also cause outages. The availability of high-pressure gas means greater supply reliability and reduces the chance of interruptions.”

Ms Duiker said people could take steps to use gas efficiently during winter, including getting gas appliances serviced by qualified gasfitters; installing draught seals on external windows and doors; setting heater thermostats between 18 and 20 degrees; and keeping AusNet’s emergency numbers handy – 13 67 07 for gas leaks or interruptions to supply, and 1800 818 832 for life-support customers.

She said peak demand and unforeseen events during winter could also result in temporary interruptions to gas supply on the fringes of the AusNet network.

She said in the case of a gas outage, customers should call 13 67 07, stay away from suspected faulty or leaking gas pipes and only use portable gas bottles or gas stoves outdoors.

People can find more information at ausnetservices.com.au/gasready.

Legacy rewards junior speakers

Hopetoun College’s Darcy Milburn has won the Wimmera Legacy junior public speaking award, ahead of Murtoa College’s Lyra Reardon and Chardonnay Pickering.

Wimmera Legacy president Philip Nicks said while he was disappointed few schools participated this year, he was impressed by the competitors’ efforts.

“It was great to see those three students – they were all nervous, but they all tried really hard,” he said.

“Each of them received a certificate, which they will be able to put into their portfolios for future employment or other opportunities, and cash prizes.”

Participants prepared speeches on topics of their own choosing before receiving an impromptu question.

“Individually, they are given a topic – this

year it was ‘what’s so good about living in the country rather than a large city?’,” Mr Nicks said.

“They have five minutes to prepare before speaking for two minutes.”

Darcy’s five-minute speech was on the importance of remembrance, Lyra’s was the invisibility battle: understanding and supporting mental wellbeing, and Chardonnay’s was on standing by each other: the power of caring and mateship.

Mr Nicks said that owing to low participant numbers, the speaking award might not go ahead next year.

School representatives interested in finding out about the award, or who would like to enter next year, can email admin@wimmeralegacy. com.au.

– Bronwyn Hastings

(No pre-bookings required)

9.30am to 10am Kids First Aid 11am to 11.30am Mums and Bubs First Aid

Noon to 1pm Professor Simon Stewart: Heart Health Lionel Godwin: BSc Exercise and Nutritional Science (Heart Attack Survivor)

9am to noon FREE Face Painting and Young Expressions Stall

9am to 3pm First Aid Kit Stall (free coffee and cake with every first aid kit purchased)

Guess Snakes in the Jar ( to win a free snake bite kit)

YOUNG LEADERS: Hopetoun’s Darcy Milburn, centre, pictured with Lyra Reardon, left, Chardonnay Pickering and Philip Nicks after Wimmera Legacy’s Junior Public Speaking Award at Horsham earlier this month.

Horsham celebrates new citizens

Eighteen people became Australian citizens at a Horsham Rural City Council citizenship ceremony last week.

People from India, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Myanmar and the Philippines were among those to make the pledge to be Australian citizens.

Becoming an Australian citizen requires people to make an ongoing commitment to Australia and its shared values.

It is also the beginning of a person’s formal membership of the Australian community.

At a citizenship ceremony, people pledge their loyalty to Australia and its people; that they will share Australia’s democratic beliefs and respect its rights and liberties; and to uphold and obey the laws of Australia.

Amos Amolo and his children Dan and Angel were born in Kenya and migrated to Australia. All three became Australian citizens last week.

Dan is studying civil engi-

neering at Deakin University in Geelong, while Angel is in year 11 at Horsham College.

“It was a joy today, being confirmed an Australian citizen,”

Mr Amolo said.

“Originally I come from eastern Africa, the pride of Africa, a country called Kenya. I moved to Australia in 2015 and I lived in a small town called Orange in New South Wales.

“After that I moved here to Horsham.”

Mr Amolo said he moved to Horsham through his work with the Royal Flying Doctors Service, where he worked in patient transport.

“I just help the community around the Wimmera,” he said.

Mr Amolo used to work as a tour guide taking people to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania – where he had the opportunity to meet many Australian.

“I have a lot of friends from Australia. I think they’ll think it’s very great to hear now I’m part of them,” he said.

TOGETHER: Amos Amolo and his children Angel Ochieng and Dan Ochieng following the Horsham citizenship ceremony.

ALL SMILES: Horsham Rural City Council hosted a citizenship ceremony last week. Pictured are, new citizens, from left, Crystal Arquiza, Mu Shi, Deni Dominic with Noah Avin, Avin James, Horsham Rural City Mayor Ian Ross, Cherish Charles, Tiara Cherish, Nimmy Jacob, Angel Ochieng, Amos Amolo; Manisha Patel with Ekaa Patel, Rudra Patel, Christinadah Gaw, Dan Ochieng, Kalpesh Patel, Gay Wah, Bokani Dube and Horsham Rural City Council chief executive Gail Gatt.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

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June

25, 2025

Investment

Agriculture Victoria’s soil research capabilities at its Horsham and Tatura SmartFarms have been boosted with a $1.49-million investment. Research scientist Katherine Dunsford said they were looking to expand understanding across a wider range of soil types and industries, particularly grains and dairy. Story, page 33.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Money for drought research

Agriculture Victoria’s soil research capabilities at its Horsham and Tatura SmartFarms have been boosted with a $1.49-million investment from the Federal Government’s National Soil Action Plan.

Agriculture Victoria research scientist Katherine Dunsford said the ‘Improving soil structure for resilient ecosystems’ project would fund critical research into increasing drought resilience.

“In Australia soil is the basis for most agriculture, both food and fibre, and directly tied to our food security and economy,” she said.

“This project funding has helped us appoint a dedicated soil physicist to our soil physics laboratory facility at the Tatura SmartFarm.

“The soil physicist will apply their soil science, hydrology and ecosystem knowledge to our project and make the most of the technology and facilities available at the soil physics lab and our SmartFarms.”

Dr Dunsford said poor soil structure limits rainfall capture and root access to water, shrinking the soil’s water bucket.

“It can also lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions and reduced fertility, resulting in lower plant production and poor environmental outcomes,” she said.

“Soils can have naturally poor struc-

ture or as a result of management decisions, such as excessive tillage or trampling by cattle in wet conditions.

“Our research focuses on understanding how different soil amelioration strategies such as organic materials and gypsum can improve soil structure and soil function.”

Dr Dunsford said they were looking to expand understanding across a wider range of soil types and industries, particularly grains and dairy.

“The goal is to guide farmers to effective soil improvement strategies to maintain or boost productivity, enhance drought resilience, and increase environmental services in a changing

climate,” she said. The National Soil Action Plan is a five-year plan under the 20-year National Soil Strategy.

The funding aligns to priority actions, which aim to improve Australia’s soil health and long-term security.

The Horsham SmartFarm is focused on improving productivity and biosecurity outcomes for the grains industry through seed-to-landscape innovations and mitigating the impacts of climate change through the adaptation of cropping systems.

The SmartFarm uses and demonstrates innovative, cutting-edge digital technology to increase productivity, profitability and sustainability of grain

growers. It incorporates research facilities at the Horsham Grains Innovation Park, and a 600-hectare research farm that supports a range of research activities including new pulse variety breeding, crop agronomy, soil sciences and nutrient management, crop protection and biosecurity.

People can learn more about NSAP at agriculture.gov.au/agriculture-land/ farm-food-drought/natural-resources/ soils/national-soil-action-plan.

To learn more about SmartFarms, people can visit agriculture.vic.gov. au/research.agriculture.vic.gov.au.

Ag opportunity

Agriculture Victoria is hosting a farm business success workshop for farmers at St Arnaud next month.

The Setting Strategies for Farm Business Success workshop, facilitated by Gavin Beever from Cumbre Consulting, will be at St Arnaud Sporting Club from July 23-24.

Mr Beever has more than 35 years of broad, practical experience in agricultural extension and farm management with a focus on creating high-functioning teams who achieve their goals.

Agriculture Victoria grains northern regional manager Rebecca Mitchell said the workshop was suitable for all members of a farm business.

“A key outcome of these workshops is the development of a basic business plan identifying actions and options that will help improve farm business management,” she said.

Participants will learn what is an effective business plan and how to define success; cashflow management and dealing with downturns; managing and understanding human relationships; how to undertake a business fitness check; and identifying success drivers and benchmarking.

Also presenting at the workshops will be Agriculture Victoria seasonal risk agronomist Dale Grey on understanding climate risks, leading biosecurity officer plants Jim Moran on farm biosecurity, and Autonomous Ag managing director Brendan Williams on the latest in AgTech. Visitagriculture.vic.gov.au/events for more information and to book.

ON SITE: Research scientist Katherine Dunsford at Horsham SmartFarm.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

By the time you read this, the Federal Agriculture Minister Julie Collins most probably would have visited Victoria’s south-west to meet with farmers trying to deal with the ongoing drought, which is now well into its second year.

In what is becoming an increasingly disturbing trend, the minister won’t give details of where or when.

When pressured if a reporter from Country Today could have any kind of media opportunity while she was in Victoria, the answer was, ‘… for planning purposes the minister is keen to meet with farmers on the ground’.

We took that as a no.

Ms Collins did hold an impromptu media briefing when she was on a dairy farm in South Australia three weeks ago, but all she said was the tour of three farms was about listening to farmers and reporting back to the prime minister.

In an interview on Country Today earlier this month, her first since being appointed as agriculture minister nearly 12 months ago, she was challenged about drought assistance and asked why there were no freight or fodder subsidies, which farmers have been begging for.

“We haven’t ruled anything out in terms of what our government may or may not do in the future, what we want to do is keep having those discussions,” she told Country Today

So, does this mean she would consider freight and-or fodder subsidies?

“Well, that has been ruled out in the National Drought Agreement,” she said.

That agreement dates back to the 1990s, when the system of low or no-interest loans for farm-

Country Today with

Libby Price

ers hit by drought, and freight and fodder subsidies, were dumped for policies, which ‘should be to prioritise drought preparedness, sustainability, resilience and risk management for farming businesses and communities in order to reduce the need and dependency on short-term government programs and assistance’.

In fairness to the government, all farmer organisations agreed at the time and signed the agreement.

The logic was that unviable farmers were being given cheap loans, and that freight and fodder subsidies artificially increased prices.

In stark contrast, Ms Collins was very quick to jump on a plane to see the floods in NSW and also Queensland earlier this year.

In February, she announced $72.7-million for flooded farmers in North Queensland plus $1-million in emergency fodder support. So there is a precedent.

Fodder is being trucked from as far away as Western Australia and Queensland.

Breeding stock is also being sent north to NSW and Queensland. With not a cent in assistance. Maybe, just maybe, the government could have a rethink.

Food and fibre exports exceed target

The State Government is celebrating the achievements of Victorian farmers, with primary producers and food manufacturers hitting a 10-year, $20-billion export target six years ahead of schedule.

The government this month released a 2023-24 food and fibre export report showing Victoria was Australia’s top food and fibre exporter, with 27 per cent of the total national export value.

Economic Growth and Jobs Minister Danny Pearson said the result made

Victoria ‘the nation’s premier state for food and fibre’, and achieved a government goal of exporting $20-billion of food and fibre by 2030.

Mr Pearson said Victoria was one of only two states to record growth in food and fibre export value in 2023-24.

“When it comes to food and fibre, we are the reigning premiers – and we have absolutely smashed our export target six years ahead of schedule,” he said.

“Every contract signed by a Victorian business to sell their goods

overseas helps to grow jobs at home, and that’s why we back our exporters so strongly.”

The report showed butter exports surged by 81 per cent, which Mr Pearson labelled a testament to the quality of Victoria’s produce, as well as sustainable farming practices and safety standards.

China remained Victoria’s largest export market, buying nearly $5-billion of Australian food and fibre in the 2023-24 financial year.

Victoria also achieved export growth in other overseas markets, including

Providing food for thought

Dynamic Ag livestock consultant Steve Cotton spoke about sheep management during dry seasonal conditions at an Agriculture Victoria best practice ewe management workshop earlier this month.

Dr Cotton said producers’ most pressing decision in the current climate was to sell or retain sheep.

“Think through that and do a feed budget, establishing if you sell too many this year, can you afford to buy back in? Producers need to consider how long it would take to breed their way back in,” he said.

“We expect sheep prices might be a bit dearer next year, so that might be a problem.”

Dr Cotton said future sheep prices would need to be compared with what it would cost to feed sheep through the winter until August, when the grass was expected to keep growing.

“It’s thinking about strategies to understand keeping versus selling, and also considering some fundamentals,” he said.

“In this environment, we need to consider if we are lambing at the right time, if we have our stocking rate matched for our rainfall, and if we are matching pasture supply with animal demand.”

The workshop was at Jason Pymer’s Wonwondah property, and gave attendees many points to consider.

“Steve’s a pretty good presenter. He doesn’t

sugarcoat things, he tells you how it is, it gives you food for thought,” Mr Pymer said.

“Now we’ve had a bit of rain, we’ve got a bit of confidence and we’re feeling a bit better about the season.”

Mr Pymer said he had ensured his 2000-head flock would have enough feed for the winter.

“We’ve got plenty of grain and hay on hand as far as feeding goes, but it would be much nicer to have green grassland, hopefully in the next few weeks we’ll get that,” he said.

“Our ewes and the majority of our young sheep are in containment, and they’ll stay there until we’ve got enough green feed for them.

“The ewes have finished lambing, and we’ll keep supplementary feeding them until we don’t have to.”

Alongside workshops and other events, Mr Pymer said BestWool/BestLamb groups welcomed producers, with several groups in the southwest region, including at Horsham, Ararat, Northern Grampians, Apsley and Willaura.

“We get a variety of speakers, and we have a tour going shortly to have a look at some different properties,” he said.

“It’s a bit of a social connection too, we have about 20 members in the Horsham South group.”

People can find more information on BestWool/ BestLamb groups at Agriculture Victoria’s website, and fine dry seasons support at agriculture. vic.gov.au/dryseasons or by calling 136 186.

the United States, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and India.

Agriculture Minister Ros Spence said in an uncertain global trade environment, the State Government was making efforts to support exporters, with $34.9-million in the 2025-26 State Budget to help small and medium-sized businesses to identify new markets and diversify their customer base.

She said the government had also invested $18.8-million into a Trade and Investment Network, which aims to support Victorian exporters by cre-

ating business opportunities. A government economic growth statement released in December identified agribusiness as a priority sector and trade as a critical driver of economic growth.

It said agriculture production was ‘an integral part of Victoria’s regional economy’, with about three quarters of the industry’s workforce living in regional areas.

People can read the Victorian Food and Fibre Export Performance Summary 2023-24 by visiting global.vic. gov.au/victorias-export-performance.

INFORMATIVE: Grower Jason Pymer and livestock consultant Dr Steve Cotton from Dynamic Ag during a ewe management and feed planning breakfast workshop at Pymer’s farm at Wonwondah.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

FAMILY JOB: McKenzie Creek farmer Nathan Plush and his son Percy, 4, following the ewe management and feed planning workshop.

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Analyst talks on highs, lows

Agrains and oilseed analyst says he’s never seen a time like this year where the outcome of grain prices and the market is so heavily reliant on politics and with so many uncontrollable aspects in play.

Vitor Pistoia, who works for Rabobank, spoke at the Grains Research and Development Association’s Farm Business Update at Horsham Town Hall on Thursday last week about 2025 grains and oilseeds outlook, talking about what is the end game for markets considering tariffs’ impacts.

The conference facilitated the adoption of innovative and leadingedge farm business practices that drive high performing farms.

Other guest speakers included Rose Roche and Martijn Mooij, from CSIRO, who spoke about the Ag2050 Scenarios report – an outlook for productive, resilient and sustainable landscape farming systems; Nuffield Scholar and grain grower Jarrod Ameryon exploring the human side of success in agriculture; and Sally Murfet, from Inspire AG, who made a presentation about creating farm teams that perform well together.

Mr Pistoia said while the wheat market was already set, for barley, it was more about internal demand.

He said the amount of feed-lot demand from northern New South Wales and Queensland, and how long farmers in drought would need to keep buying feed for their animals would affect barley prices.

“On the canola front in this region, of course, canola has been ditched from the program because of the late and tough start, but there are some paddocks out there – and is Europe going to buy canola from us? What about Canada?, ” he said.

Mr Pistoia said the situation with the United States’ tariffs would affect the genetically-modified canola market, while non-GM grain was based on European demand.

“We have the baseline tariffs.

That’s the frozen that we refer to, and they are set to expire on July 9,” he said.

“As I say to everyone, politicians are doing politics – it’s impossible to forecast the end-game, defined in print, that will have a signature at the bottom because that is what matters.

“The deals – whether it’s a free trade agreement between country X, Y, and Z, whether it’s for steel, mineral sands, or wheat and canola – we must wait and see what politicians will come up with.”

Mr Pistoia said farmers he had spoken with were parking drought conditions aside, and focusing on

“We have the baseline tariffs. That’s the frozen that we refer to, and they are set to expire on July 9”

– Vitor Pistoia, right

whether they would get their crops out of the ground.

“Is urea going to disappear from the market – following Israel and Iran – that’s also a question of the moment,” he said.

“Our views are that things potentially will not get that complicated for this crop because the procurement has been done for our season, but for the coming season, well, that’s an open story – anything can happen.

“Crude has increased in recent days. No one knows when this is going to end, so that’s another thing to keep an eye on.

“But basically it’s for the next season, not this one. This one is getting crops out of the ground.

“How are my potential yields? Am I going to break even with wheat at 300 or 330 or 350? What’s the likelihood of getting 300, 330 and 350? Those are more the questions in recent days.”

Mr Pistoia said the current global situation was a crucial moment that would be written into history books.

“The whole structure of how poli-

tics, the global economy, takes place is being reshaped,” he said.

“We don’t know what’s going to be the end game, but it is being reshaped.

“Who would say that after the Russian invasion and everything –that Ukraine would be able to keep exporting and supplying?

“Well, that is also another aspect of the grains, oils and seeds industries that people need to eat, they need to eat bread, pasta, rice, drink beer, and so on, and feed the animals.

“So on that front demand – there is a minimum in the elasticity in the market, and that is what supports, and that’s why we never see grain prices going to zero, but they can be under 300 because of the overall supply and demand, and of course the seasons’ seasonality.”

New web tool

Agriculture Victoria officials hope a new web tool designed to measure crop density will help farmers improve their yields.

Seasonal risk agronomist Dale Boyd said an early estimation of crop emergence could prove vital amid dry winter conditions currently challenging growers across the state.

He said successful crop establishment depended largely on soil moisture, which had been limited by a lack of rainfall during May.

“Having the planting equipment and good quality seed can really help make the most of what moisture is there,” he said.

“The crop density calculator can be easily downloaded to the home screen of your smartphone, and is part of the soil moisture dashboard, which provides real time moisture profiles across the state.

“The crop density calculator is a simple tool that will assist cropping farmers and-or their agronomists, to make informed decisions on crop-management strategies according to the number of plants they have successfully managed to emerge this season.”

Mr Boyd said the calculator provided instant feedback after entering numbers in required sections such as row spacing and plant counts.

“As phones are carried most of the time, there will be plenty of opportunities to analyse multiple paddocks,” he said.

The crop density calculator can be found online at extensionaus.com.au/soilmoisturemonitoring/estimating-crop-plant-density.

More information on drought and dry seasons, as well as technical decision-making support, is available at www.agriculture.vic. gov.au/dryseasons or by calling 136 186.

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Why Insurance Isn’t One Size Fits All

Your Neighbour is Different

When it comes to insurance, comparing your policy to your neighbour’s is like comparing apples to oranges. While it’s tempting to assume that similar homes, businesses, or vehicles mean similar insurance needs, the truth is far more complex.

Insurance premiums are carefully calculated based on a range of factors unique to each policyholder. For instance, your neighbour might have chosen a higher excess to lower their premium, while you’ve opted for a comprehensive policy to ensure greater peace of mind. Di erences in claims history, security features, or even the materials used in your home can all in uence costs.

en there’s lifestyle to consider. Does your business rely on specialised equipment? Have

you recently renovated your home or installed high-value ttings?

ese details create vastly di erent insurance needs from one household or business to the next.

It’s also essential to think beyond price. A lower premium might look appealing, but it could leave you exposed to nancial risk if your coverage doesn’t match your circumstances. Conversely, paying for features or bene ts that don’t apply to your situation is just wasted money.

is is why working with a quali ed insurance broker is so important. Brokers take the time to understand your individual needs and tailor solutions accordingly. ey’ll ensure you’re not overinsured or underinsured and help you navigate the ne print that can make or break a claim.

“Remember, your neighbour’s policy isn’t yours for a reason. Insurance is deeply personal, just like the lives and assets it’s designed to protect.

By focusing on your unique circumstances, you can ensure that your coverage is as individual as you are - and that’s a neighbourly move worth making.”

Of The Year

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NIBA VIC / TAS Broker

Proud supporter of local farmers

Decades of industry insight

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Stawell livestock agent Damien Harrington has retired after almost half a century in the field.

Mr Harrington has seen a shift in production across five decades and two states.

Beginning his career with Elders in northeast Victoria in the 1970s, the then-20-year-old sold merchandise and helped sell cattle on sale days.

He moved to Albury in 1978, where the pace quickened with weekly cattle sales in New South Wales, before he was transferred to Hay in 1980.

“That was an eye-opener, leaving beautiful hilly, green country to go to dry, flat country in New South Wales,” Mr Harrington said.

“But I got to like it. I was lucky enough to be there when the livestock industry was fairly big.

“We had sales in the spring of 70,000 and 80,000 yarded sheep, and a lot of those properties up there could have been upwards of 20-odd shearing stands in the sheds, so it was fairly full on.”

Mr Harrington said while there were still some large livestock stations in the area, irrigation cropping had developed.

In 1982, mid-drought, he moved to Wycheproof.

“It was pretty stark then – I think that’s when they had the dust storms in Melbourne – but then in 1983 the

drought broke, and things just exploded.”

Mr Harrington married and moved to Stawell in 1985, where he rounded out his career, ultimately becoming AWN branch manager and livestock agent.

He has maintained his client base through company changes, and has seen slow changes in farming and production.

“Stawell has been a very stable area. Everyone around here does a bit of cropping and the majority of them have livestock,” he said.

“There’s probably more agriculture now, and there has been a transition to prime lambs and meat, away from the traditional wool.

“When I first got here, it was predominantly merinos, but the wool industry started to fade in the last 10 or 11 years, and obviously you’ve got to have an income, and the prime lambs were a good cash income. We used to attend wool sales nearly every week, but I hadn’t been to a wool sale in years.”

Mr Harrington said his retirement

would bring more time with his grandchildren, travel, and time at his Lake Lonsdale property.

“I’ve really enjoyed the area – the clientele has been fantastic, they’ve been a great support to me over the years,” he said.

“We’ve changed companies a couple of times, from Elders, to Rodwells, and now to AWN, and they’ve been very loyal. But, you build trust in your clients, and they stick with you.

“They’re very astute stockmen, and that made life a bit easier.”

Did you know we also do windscreens

Fast-tracking fodder access

Agriculture Victoria is providing a free service to suppliers, transporters and farmers to navigate permit requirements and expedite access to fodder.

Importers looking to bring fodder into Victoria from interstate can go through Agriculture Victoria to apply for a plant biosecurity permit, PBP, to ensure biosecurity risks are properly managed.

Ongoing drought conditions have created serious challenges for Victoria’s livestock industry, particularly a critical shortage of hay and fodder.

Agriculture Victoria chief plant health officer Stephen Dibley said all fodder imports would require a PBP, except for NT and Tasmania.

“Given the ongoing tough conditions across the state, Agriculture Victoria is prioritising permit applications for fodder to make sure essential transport can be fast tracked,” he said.

“Once a PBP is submitted, our team will be in touch to discuss and assess the specifics of the request.”

Costs associated with the inspection of interstate fodder by Agriculture Victoria where it is required, will be waived.

To apply for a plant health permit, people can visit agri culture.vic.gov.au or email market. access@agriculture.vic.gov.au.

Contact Horsham Autoglass today to organise prompt repair or replacement.

TIME FOR CHANGE: Damien Harrington, branch manager and livestock agent at AWN Livestock and Property, is looking forward to retirement. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

VFF: roll back protections

The Victorian Farmers Federation is imploring the State Government to strengthen its wild-dog management programs in the Mallee and northern Wimmera as livestock attacks continue to mount.

VFF vice-president Peter Star said non-lethal methods of controlling dingo populations in the region had failed to protect livestock, and urged the government to roll back protections for the animals.

In March last year, the State Government announced it would lift an unprotection order for dingoes in Victoria’s north-west, keeping the order in place across most of the rest of the state.

The order, until it was suspended, had declared dingoes to be unprotected wildlife on all private land, enabling farmers to use lethal methods on the dogs in order to protect livestock.

Across most of eastern Victoria, dingoes are also unprotected on public land within three kilometres of a private land boundary.

In October the government opted to continue protections for dingoes across north-west Victoria, citing biodiversity concerns as studies estimated dingo popu-

lations in the region were ‘critically low’.

The government said it had invested millions of dollars to help farmers adopt non-lethal control methods for the dogs and funded trials on management strategies.

But Mr Star said lifting the unprotection order had resulted in an uptick in livestock attacks.

“What we’re seeing since the unprotection order was lifted is dogs coming on private property in more pack situations, as opposed to when there was the unprotection order, where they were just single dogs that were coming on and the wild dog controllers within the north-west were able to deal with those dogs, and hence keep the problem at bay,” he said.

“I’m talking about roughly eight to 10 dogs a year that were taken out by the wild dog control program, and the number of sheep being predated upon was very minimal.

“What we’ve seen in the last 18 months is that there have been more sheep killed in the northwest during that period than what has been killed in the previous 10 years or more under the wild dog control program.”

Mr Star said non-lethal controls, including electric fencing and guardian animals such as

“They have a right to farm. It is their livelihood. It is their mental wellbeing that is totally under threat”

– Peter Star, right

sheep dogs and donkeys, had so far failed to adequately address the attacks.

“What I would like to see from the government is the ability for landholders to control these wild dogs, dingoes – whatever you want to call them – on their own property, the same as anywhere else in Victoria,” he said.

“They have a right to farm. It is their livelihood. It is their mental wellbeing that is totally under threat.”

Mr Star said the VFF was calling on the government to expand wild-dog control programs, including baiting and trapping, in identified high-risk areas; give livestock producers access to practical control tools, training and other government resources; prioritise co-ordination across agencies, landholders and conservation groups to ensure effective, unified management; and ensure policy changes were science-based, and encourage reporting and evidence collection

so control strategies were datainformed and responsive.

“There just seems to be a lack of appreciation, certainly within the biodiversity section of the Victorian government, concerning all of this,” he said.

“Logical argument has to prevail. It just can’t be at the whim of a few people within the department who are passionate about dingoes, and I think this is what it boils down to.

“There are biodiversity staff within the Victorian government who are very passionate about the preservation of dingoes. In their passion for preserving the dingoes, they’re also sourcing a lot of their scientific stuff from a very narrow field.

“It needs to change. There needs to be an open discussion.”

Energy conference

Energy and climate change experts along with farmers experienced in alternative energy will be guest speakers at the National Renewables in Agriculture Conference and Expo in Bendigo on July 23.

The conference, in Victoria for the first time in six years, will bring together farmers, energy experts, researchers, industry leaders and government representatives to explore the practicalities, opportunities and challenges of renewable energy in agriculture.

Dairy farmer Sandra Jefford, who is working on a controlled microgrid and using solar for irrigation for her Gippsland property, and New Zealand farmer Mike Casey, who has been electrifying his farm over the past few years and has the first electric Monarch Tractor in the southern hemisphere, will be among speakers at the conference.

The keynote speaker at this year’s conference is Grattan Institute’s energy and climate change program director Tony Wood, a well-known and influential thinker in renewables and climate change policy.

Sessions will feature a range of topics including electric utes, battery storage, bioenergy, solar pumping, future grid, agrivoltaics, and sharing the benefits when hosting large scale solar and wind farms.

Conference founder and farmer Karin Stark said momentum was building across the sector.

“Farmers are increasingly turning to renewables to tackle the challenge of rising diesel and electricity prices,” she said.

“But there’s still work to be done in making the right technologies available and ensuring regional contractors and services are equipped to deliver.”

Ms Stark said the conference would also explore agriculture’s growing role in decarbonising the electricity grid.

“We’ll be discussing the evolving distribution network and microgrids, and the potential for smaller, distributed solar projects on farms – say five megawatt systems –feeding directly into the local network,” she said.

“There are also emerging opportunities for farmers to be paid for providing energy services as new markets develop.”

Squirrel glider project launched

An environmental project that protects the habitat of squirrel gliders and fosters connections between people and wildlife will need the support of the region’s landowners to be a success.

Project Platypus launched the Tail of the Squirrel Glider project to a fully booked venue at Pomonal Estate Winery, in front of more than 60 people who gathered to learn how they could help make a positive impact toward saving the threatened squirrel gliders in the area.

Project officer Phoebe NowellUsticke said community support for the project had been amazing.

“We have had so many generous donations since starting our fundraising. Now we have a packed house to hear about the great opportunities to get involved in the project,” she said.

The event was met with excitement and a touch of wild wonder as community members gathered to celebrate the conservation initiative.

Project Platypus board chair Clive Carlyle provided a heartening reminder of how community, science and nature could come together to make a positive impact.

“Project Platypus is extremely fortunate to have such capable staff as well as the commitment from our community,” he said.

Project Platypus manager Mark McLean introduced the project’s development and aims, which include protecting the habitat of squirrel gliders in the region and fostering meaningful connections between people and wildlife.

“This project will rely on the support of local landholders to help find important habitat and protect it for the future,” he said.

Ecology experts Elia Pirtle and Chris

Pocknee, from Biolinks Alliance, presented their insights into the ecology of squirrel gliders, their behaviour, threats to their survival and steps that can be taken to support the gliding marsupials – sparking great interest and conversation among attendees.

“We have a great blueprint for how to save our squirrel gliders, through co-ordinated linking of habitat where gliders are known to live,” Dr Pirtle said.

Ms Nowell-Usticke also spoke about past community engagement activities, which included a recent incursion at Pomonal Primary School.

Students had a unique hands-on experience with squirrel gliders thanks to Black Snake Productions.

Ms Nowell-Usticke also shared plans for future events, volunteer opportunities, and the upcoming plantout scheduled for early August.

“This plantout will be the first official planting for the project and will be a fun and rewarding day out for anyone wanting to get involved,” he said.

The event also featured fun for all ages with the ‘build-a-glider’ station, which had children and adults crafting paper gliders, with prizes awarded for the most aesthetic and furthest glides. A highlight of the day was the appearance of Luna and Jupiter, real-life squirrel gliders that gave a first-hand

look at what the project and community effort is aiming to protect.

All in attendance were thrilled to see the elusive creatures up close, along with a supporting cast of remarkable animals relevant to the lifecycle of a squirrel glider.

More than $1000 was raised to sup-

FIRST-HAND LOOK: Squirrel gliders Luna and Jupiter brought great joy to people at Project Platypus’ launch of the Tail of the Squirrel Glider project at Pomonal Estate Winery.

port the project, which will go towards setting up nest boxes with cameras to monitor the occupants.

People interested in becoming involved in the project can visit the Project Platypus Facebook page or website.

increase.

A mixed outlook

Experts have reported a mixed bag of trends across Australia’s agricultural sector in the past month, with lamb prices continuing to lift, the dairy industry struggling and grain markets ‘at a critical juncture’.

Bendigo Bank’s most recent monthly agribusiness commodity update provided snapshots of several industries, including beef, sheep, wool, dairy, cropping and horticulture, examining Australia-wide trends in each.

Bendigo Bank agricultural analyst Rod Baker said Australia’s grains industry was at a turning point, particularly in western Victoria, with weather in the coming weeks to play a key role in shaping future price direction.

Mr Baker said ongoing demand for supplementary feed in western Victoria and interstate had pushed barley to trade at a consistent premium to wheat in the ex-farm market.

He said easing wheat prices in Western Australia, Queensland and New South Wales reflected both improved weather conditions and pressure from falling global benchmarks, which he said had eroded export margins and driven more grain back into the domestic system.

Mr Baker said a lack of competitiveness in global markets had resulted in not only an absence of new export business, but in exporters drawing down old stock rather than buying fresh grain, resulting in more grain remaining available for domestic and capping prices.

There was good news for the sheep industry, with the Australian lamb price record broken three times during the final week of May. The new record currently stands at $431 a head.

Analyst Joe Boyle said lamb markets firmed following supply disruptions and subsequent concerns regarding supply shortages during the typically quieter winter months.

Australia’s heavy lamb indicator rose above $10 per kilogram for the first time in its history and finished May $9.85 per kilogram, marking a 16.2 per cent month-on-month increase and a 30.9 per cent jump above the five-year average.

Mr Boyle said he expected lamb prices to re-

main firm throughout June, slightly lower than the record levels seen during May, but still above the five-year average, with dry conditions across Australia’s south expected to reduce production this season.

Australian cattle prices were also stronger throughout May, with the young cattle indicator for eastern states up 22 per cent from the beginning of the year and the national young cattle indicator up 23 per cent.

With Brazil declared free of foot and mouth disease, Australian farmers are set to face increased competition in export markets such as China, South Korea and Japan.

But analyst Tom Herbert said while Brazil could compete with Australia in cattle supply, it lagged behind Australia in quality.

With strong beef exports to China so far in 2025, Mr Herbert said Australia could be close to triggering a safeguard tariff in July or August.

Meanwhile the dairy industry is struggling in the wake of extreme weather conditions, with about 60 per cent of all dairy farms in Australia estimated to have been affected by either drought or flooding in recent months.

Bendigo Bank senior insights manager James Maxwell said farmgate prices of about $8.80 per kilogram of milk solids had disappointed producers, with current prices likely insufficient to arrest the contraction of Australia’s dairy industry.

He said producers were already facing significant pressure on cash flow from higher input costs, which had been exacerbated by adverse weather.

Mr Maxwell said he expected prices to lift through the season, but current offerings would do little to encourage industry growth, with a forecasted third consecutive annual decline in production of between 8.2 or 8.1 billion litres – three billion litres less than was produced in 2000.

People can view Bendigo Bank’s full commodity updates online at www.bendigobank.com. au/business/industries/agribusiness/agricultureinsights/commodity-updates.

Scholarships growing new leaders

Early-career farmers can apply for scholarships of up to $10,000 to help develop new skills under the latest round of a State Government program.

Agriculture Minister Ros Spence has announced the opening of the government’s Upskill and Invest Young Farmers Scholarship Program for 2025, which encourages farmers to pursue learning in areas including agronomy, irrigation, land management and conservation, marketing and accounting.

The program offers scholarships of up to $10,000 for farmers aged 18 to 40, including up to $5000 for training and-or study, and another $5000 for successful applicants to apply their newly learned skills on farm through practical investments, such as invest in farm planning, new technologies, professional development, or

equipment that supports innovation and growth.

Ms Spence said since 2015 the program had helped 133 young Victorian farmers.

“The 2025 Upskill and Invest Young Farmers Scholarship Program is a great opportunity for farmers looking to broaden their skills and resources,” she said.

Young Farmers Advisory Council chair Clay Gowers encouraged young farmers to apply.

“It’s a great opportunity to boost the productivity of your farm business, enhance sustainability on farm and improve your own skills,” he said.

Applications are open to people who have been working in a farm business for at least three days a week for the past three months, with a minimum of two years’ total on-farm experience. To apply, people can visit vic.gov.au/young farmers. Applications close

Maintaining a safe workplace

BY JORDAN BAUER

SPECIAL COUNSEL, HARWOOD ANDREWS

The agriculture industry is notoriously dangerous.

The Victorian work health and safety, WHS, framework places obligations on business and individuals to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.

WHS obligations extend to employers, employees, self-employed persons, manufacturers and suppliers of plant, people managing or controlling a workplace and company directors.

At an employer level, there are obligations to provide a safe working environment free of risks to the health and safety of its employees.

Employers must ensure their farming operations do not create a risk to health and safety, including for employees, family members, visitors, customers and volunteers.

There are also additional obligations such as ensuring plant and systems of work are safe, there are adequate facilities and to provide training on safe working methods.

The potential for illness and injury on farms is increased by the use of heavy machinery, livestock, the use of chemicals and environmental hazards.

Additionally, the labour-intensive nature of the agriculture industry creates physical challenges for the individuals performing work.

It is important that employers or the person/s managing or controlling a workplace proactively identify risks and control hazards to mitigate against workplace injuries.

Specific risk mitigation strategies will need to be assessed based on the individual farm or working environment. However, employers are required to eliminate or reduce risks so far as reasonably practicable to comply with WHS legislation.

The hierarchy of control assists employers to meet these obligations by eliminating hazards and risks; reducing risks; implementing administrative controls; and using personal protective equipment.

The reduction of risks may involve implementing a single risk control measure, or a combination of multiple measures.

It is also important to ensure that persons performing work at a farm are informed of safety procedures addressing hazards, emergency procedures, safe use of machinery and any other risks that may have been identified by the employer.

Employers should also be mindful of their reporting obligations to WorkSafe Victoria in the event of certain workplace incidents.

There are also various obligations on employers to not disturb an incident scene until a WorkSafe inspector arrives.

• People needing help with understanding their WHS obligations or risk mitigation tips can contact Harwood Andrews for more information.

HOST: ABC Landline presenter Pip Courtney will emcee the 2025 Australian Women in Agriculture National Conference.

Women in agriculture conference

The Australian Women in Agriculture, AWiA, 2025 National Conference will take place in Adelaide in August, with the theme Growing Futures – Breaking Barriers.

The conference, at the Stamford Grand at Glenelg from August 5 to 7, will reflect AWiA’s ongoing commitment to empowering women in agriculture through leadership, innovation, and advocacy.

AWiA acting president Cressida Cains said the 2025 conference would be a landmark event, uniting women from across the country who are passionate about shaping the future of agriculture.

“This conference is an opportunity for women in agriculture to connect, learn, and be in-

spired,” she said. “We’ll explore leadership, communication, advocacy, sustainability, and new technologies to equip women with the tools they need to tackle challenges and seize opportunities in our sector.

“It’s a space to grow skills, share stories, and build a strong network of support.”

The three-day program will include a diverse lineup of speakers, expert panels, interactive workshops, and networking events designed to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among women from all areas of the agricultural industry.

ABC Landline presenter Pip Courtney will emcee the event.

“With her deep connection to rural Australia and storytelling expertise, Pip will guide an in-

spiring program of speakers,” Ms Cairns said.

Keynote speakers include rural advocate and leader Georgie Somerset, Australia’s inaugural Special Representative for Australian Agriculture Su McCluskey, Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research chief executive Professor Wendy Umberger, CSIRO’s Dr Lilly Lim-Camacho, National Growth Areas Alliance chief executive, National Farmers’ Federation rural affairs general manager Charlotte Wundersitz and Primary Producers SA chief executive Caroline Rhondes. For more information and to secure a ticket, people can visit www.awia.org.au/conference.

Mallee Field

IT PAYS TO PL AN AHEAD

VFF appoints chief

The Victorian Farmers Federation has announced Charlie Thomas as its new chief executive after an extensive recruitment process.

VFF president Brett Hosking said he was excited to welcome the wealth of experience and knowledge that Mr Thomas would bring.

Mr Thomas will begin with the VFF on July 7.

“Charlie’s experience and reputation representing farmers and rural Australians over the past 15 years is second to none and we’re incredibly excited for him to hit the ground running,” Mr Hosking said.

“He’s known for his work improving member-based organisations through strategic partnerships, successful advocacy and genuine engagement with key stakeholders.

“With prolonged drought, a looming state election and a number of critical issues facing farmers, having Charlie’s expertise, guidance and contacts will be invaluable in helping to represent the interests of farmers and regional Victorians.”

Mr Thomas said he was eager to get to work on behalf of all VFF members and farmers.

“Many farmers are doing it tough at the moment and my focus will be demonstrating a strong value proposition for members that enables the VFF to continue to drive positive change for

“It’s an honour to be appointed as CEO of the Victorian Farmers Federation, an organisation that has been the respected voice of Victorian farmers since 1979”

– Charlie Thomas, right

Victorian farmers and our regional communities,” he said.

With a state election on the horizon in 2026, Mr Thomas joins the organisation at a key time.

“Our farmers and regional communities deserve to be heard. From day one, I’m looking forward to meeting key stakeholders and the government to help ensure farming communities are a priority and a legitimate focus for decision makers,” Mr Thomas said.

Mr Thomas is the deputy chief executive at the National Farmers’ Federation.

Raised on a farm near Condobolin, New South Wales, his early experiences shaped his deep commitment to advancing the interests of rural communities and Australia’s farm sector.

Over more than 15 years, Mr Thomas has honed his strategic and collaborative approach to political advocacy.

He has earned a reputation for enhancing the impact of member-based organisations through strategic partnerships, successful advocacy, and deep engagement with stakeholders.

Before joining the NFF, Mr Thomas held senior positions in policy and corporate affairs at the Property Council of Australia and the NSW Farmers’ Association – focusing on sustainability, land use, and regulatory reform.

At the NFF, Mr Thomas has spearheaded the sector’s national advocacy strategy and overseen substantial growth in the NFF’s commercial operations.

He has led impactful national campaigns on a wide range of issues, including land use, taxation, and water rights.

Mr Thomas also holds legal qualifications from the University of Sydney and a Master of Business Administration from the Melbourne Business School.

Care for perennial pastures

BY NEIL JAMES, AGRICULTURE VICTORIA

With some good rain across Victoria, farmers may be looking to return stock to paddocks following months of containment feeding.

Returning stock too early could result in damage or death of deeprooted perennials such as phalaris, cocksfoot and fescue.

The loss of perennial pasture is primarily caused by over grazing, but when combined with extended dry periods, pasture decline can intensify.

Perennial ryegrass, however, rarely survives prolonged dry periods, regardless of grazing pressure.

Many pastures are already under stress due to the prolonged dry conditions.

Late season rainfall will have triggered some green leaf growth.

However, repeated grazing of these new shoots can deplete the plants’ root reserves, ultimately leading to plant death.

Ideally, livestock should be held in containment until pastures have grown sufficient leaf area to maximise photosynthesis and rebuild their root reserves.

This may take four to six weeks following rain or longer, depending on the starting condition and temperature.

Where stock containment is not possible due to the onset of lambing, or excessively wet conditions, farmers might consider containing

stock in a paddock corner or using part of a laneway to form a small sacrifice paddock.

Keeping the area small minimises paddock damage and reduces energy requirements of stock when compared with searching for feed over larger areas.

Resowing perennial pastures is extremely expensive, often exceeding $200 a hectare, and producers planning to sow new pastures are encouraged to review how those species have performed in environments similar to their own.

The Pasture Trial Network developed and hosted by Meat and Livestock Australia, compiles data from independent trial sites assessing a wide range of pasture varieties.

It can be used to compare the performance, seasonal and total dry matter production, of tested varieties of legumes and grasses. For more information about perennial pastures, people can visit the Agriculture Victoria website: agriculture.vic.gov.au/supportand-resources/newsletters/sheepnotes-newsletter/spring-2018/ getting-the-most-out-of-your-oldperennial-pastures. For more information about drought and dry seasons support, visit agriculture. vic.gov.au/dryseasons or call 136 186.

• Neil James is Agriculture Victoria livestock and land management extension officer.

Turning over a new Leaf

Nissan is turning over a new Leaf, launching its third generation fully-electric small car replacement that has now morphed into a coupe-style medium sized SUV rather than the previous small hatchback.

It is due to hit the US market later this year, meaning it might make it Down Under before the end of the year or early next year.

Built in the UK at the company’s Sunderland plant and also assembled at the Tochigi Plant in Japan, the new model was launched in Yokohama, Japan and has nothing in common with its predecessor, bar the name.

It takes more than a leaf out of fully electric Nissan Ariya’s book with which it shares Nissan’s CMF-EV platform and numerous other components.

Nissan has been working on the Leaf for 15 years, with the first generation appearing with polarising styling back in 2010 complete with a 10-hour recharge cycle and a range of about 130 kilometres at best.

Down Under it was priced initially at $51,500 plus on-road costs, then dropped to $48,990, finally arriving at $39,990 due to poor sales.

It was more popular elsewhere, however, chalking up almost 700,000 sales globally.

Through real world insights gained over the intervening period, Leaf has been progressively improved, with the new model revolutionary in comparison to its predecessor, benefiting from the latest BEV-tech to say nothing of its infotainment and safety credentials.

No doubt looking for a positive vibe after serious financial travails of late, Nissan says the all-new Leaf provides

ARARAT FORD

a compelling alternative for internal combustion engine, ICE, buyers, with its substantially increased maximum range, enhanced charging speed and a technology suite that makes daily driving easier and enriches owners’ lifestyles.

The company says the new Leaf embodies Nissan’s ‘timeless Japanese futurism’ design with a ‘distinctive Japanese aesthetic conveyed in a simple yet powerfully modern way’, but clearly it shares similar lines to a myriad of other medium sized BEVs flooding the market now.

The new model features a fastbacklike silhouette, flush front door handles, aero-tuned wheels and a flat underbody that combine to deliver a slippery 0.26Cd drag coefficient for US and Japan spec models, and an even more slippery 0.25Cd for European variants.

Inside is said to be spacious with an almost entirely flat floor courtesy of the CMF-EV platform and is highlighted by a wide horizontal instrument panel, that appears to be floating, that includes a monolith-style display with either dual 12.3-inch or dual 14.3-inch integrated screens depending on grade and region.

The new Leaf is powered by a threein-one single electric traction motor on the front axle that integrates the motor itself with the inverter and reducer that is 10 per cent smaller than its predecessor and features Nissan’s ‘unique’ motor control, which enhances refinement.

The new motor, paired with a new, high-rigidity motor-mount bracket, delivers a 75 per cent reduction in motor vibration compared to the outgoing model.

Two lithium-ion battery choices will

be available on new Leaf in 52kWh and 75kWh outputs, each with liquid-cooling and both offering thermal conditioning functionality. The lower output unit provides 130kW-345Nm while the higher capacity unit is good for 160kW-355Nm and a potential 500km range.

When connected to a fast charger, Nissan says new Leaf can replenish 10 to 80 per cent of their charge in as little as 35 minutes.

The new Leaf is equipped with an enhanced thermal recovery and management system that harvests heat created by the on-board charger to warm up the battery, increasing its regeneration potential in cold weather.

As expected, the new Leaf features a comprehensive suite of advanced and innovative driver assist technologies. – Peter Barnwell

STAWELL TOYOTA

Technicians

Mahindra set to make its move

wants to muscle in to the top 15 selling brands on the Australian market with a growing model portfolio that will include a boldly styled new SUV and a return of the Pik-Up ute.

Speaking at the recent global media launch of the upcoming XUV 3XO – a new compact SUV expected to be priced from about $25,000 drive-away – Mahindra’s head of international operations Sachin Arolkar reaffirmed the Indian brand’s commitment to growing its Australian presence.

The bold growth ambitions come as more than a dozen Chinese brands continue to forge ahead with sharply-priced new models backed by sizeable marketing budgets.

“In the segments we are competing, we want to be really in the top brands,” Mr Arolkar said, suggesting the company could be among the top five marques in individual categories, including small and mid-sized SUVs, the latter covered by the XUV700 that sells from $39,990 drive-away.

While those top five category targets are not as ambitious as many of the newer Chinese brands that are quickly reshaping the Australian market, it is a significant step up on where Mahindra has been.

Across the most recent Indian financial year that concluded on March 31, Mahindra said it sold 4185 cars in Australia, continuing a solid upward growth trajectory over recent years.

Mr Arolkar said he wants to see similar sales growth over coming years.

Mahindra’s president of its automotive division, Velusamy R, also laid out plans to improve the products and make them more appealing, especially to families who are an increasingly important buyer demographic.

He said the brand would step up its focus on safety while also introducing hybrids as part of its electrified drivetrain strategy.

Describing Australia as a ‘critical market’ for Mahindra, he detailed plans to develop electrified models with a focus on three types of hybrids – regular, plug-in and range extender.

“We need two things. One is we need a hybrid and we need Australasian New Car Assessment Program, ANCAP. So we are working on the ANCAP for our future programs that we are launching and the new vehicles that will come out will have the ANCAP five stars,” he said.

While the new SUV will arrive with a regular ICE powertrain, a hybrid is in the wings.

Mahindra is also looking to hybrid tech for its all-new Pik-Up ute that is expected to arrive in 2026.

However, the focus for the new ute initially – a vehicle codenamed Z121 – is on diesel.

“It is the number one dream program for us right now,” Mr Velusamy R said of the new ute.

“It is into the test drive stage, so it’s in development. It’s crossed the engineering stage, it’s in the development phase … in fact it’s well into the development.”

Development vehicles of the new Pik-Up are currently testing on Indian roads and Australia has also been involved in the development of the newcomer.

Mahindra says it will sit on the latest fourthgeneration version of the ladder frame architecture of the Thar Roxx five-door SUV that is not sold in Australia.

“It’s the most advanced ladder frame, the Thar Roxx. It’s coming out of that platform, the latest generation, generation four,” Mr Velusamy R said.

The 2026 Pik-Up will initially launch with a turbo diesel engine, but a hybrid is firmly on the horizon.

“During the launch we will announce (plans for electrified models),” Mr Velusamy R said.

“It’s very expensive hybrid technology, but we think a good diesel engine, automatic gearbox, is the best for Pik-Up.”

In line with a fast-changing market, Mr Arolkar reinforced that while Mahindra was a giant in its homeland, it was increasingly turning to global markets to boost sales – and Australia was one of those key markets.

“It’s made for international markets,” he said of the new ute.

“That vehicle is meant for markets like Australia.”

Key to the new ute’s appeal will be a higher safety rating from ANCAP.

While the XUV 3XO is not expected to get a five-star ANCAP rating – it’s lacking a centre front airbag and blind spot warning as a start –the company says it is focusing on the stricter ANCAP protocols with the view to achieving five-star scores for future vehicles.

“From day one we will develop it – five-star capability,” Mr Velusamy R said of the new PikUp’s ANCAP safety.

Mr Arolkar also suggested Mahindra would not look to compete head-on with the influx of Chinese brands, in part because it only builds utes and SUVs.

Instead he wants to lean on the brand’s engineering heritage while offering sharp value.

“Can you offer the content of a Chinese car – they offer the maximum content – with the engineering, the durability, the reliability that Mahindra has?” he said, adding that the new ute would look to broaden its market appeal.

“How do we build up a brand to be ensuring that people who don’t look upon as only for the professional use but also for personal use. That’s the kind of range we are talking about.”

– Toby Hagon

Mahindra

TARGET: Indian car maker Mahindra says its new family-friendly models will bolster its sales momentum.

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.

Crossword

On This Day

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: June 23, 2005 –Four Wimmera companies joined forces to address the youth drift from the region to the city by offering employment incentives. Bryce Simpson from Simpson Personnel, Lynne Baker from BEST Employment, VECCI area consultant Margaret Cousins, Maureen Brady from BEST Employment and VECCI regional manager Michael Toner with Victorian Premier Steve Bracks launch the One Million Dollars Worth of Work program.

10 years ago: June 24, 2015

Philanthropist Geoff Handbury provided a $50,000 gift to kick-start an August 14 radio telethon to raise money for a new Wimmera Cancer Centre. The seven-hour radio telethon on MIXX FM was part of Wimmera Health Care Group’s Rachael’s Wish fundraising appeal to generate an extra $1-million to build the new $3-million centre. During the Wimmera telethon, people were able to call the Horsham station with pledges for the project, which would combine oncology, dialysis and community palliative care services in one purpose-built facility. The appeal was named after Murtoa College teacher and cancer survivor Rachael Littore.

Five years ago: June 24, 2020

National-level Wimmera swimmers disadvantaged by a lack of access to training facilities were among pool users urging Horsham Rural City Council to reopen the city’s aquatic centre. Horsham Aquatic Centre remained closed despite the State Government allowing swimming pools to reopen to a maximum of 20 patrons on June 1. The centre, which includes indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, group fitness classes and a creche, closed in March amid the growing coronavirus pandemic.

One year ago: June 26, 2024 Horsham Rural City Council announced it would increase its fees and charges for waste management by at least six per cent in 2024-25. The increases raised the urban bin service by $30; rural bin service $19; and commercial bin service $39. It announced most waste-management fees at Dooen landfill would increase at least six per cent including loads up to three tonnes by $42; and loads above three tonnes by $14.

FIVE-DAY forecast

TaKE a BREaK

yOUR LUCKy sTaRs

FOR THE WEEK JUNE 29 TO JULY 5

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 5, 6

Lotto Numbers: 2, 15, 26, 39, 34, 40

1. Born on this day in 1961, was which English actor and comedian, who attempted a career as a pop star in the 1980s as the singer of the new-wave act Seona Dancing?

2. French, Italian and Swiss are varieties of which dessert, made with eggs?

3. What was the first manufactured boy band?

4. Which education theorist defined several areas of intelligence, such as music and athleticism, not just ‘book smart’?

5. Who said, ‘imagination is more important than knowledge’?

6. What is the process called, by which some animals produce light?

7. Stories from many Indigenous Australian groups say which animal can be seen in the dark patches of the Milky Way, stretching across a large area of the sky?

8. What was the primary cause of the Great Irish Famine, from 1845 to 1852?

9. A string quartet is traditionally composed for one cello, one viola and two of which instrument?

10. Dying on this day in 2009 was which American recording artist, one of whose first singles ‘Ben’ was released in 1972 in conjunction with the film of the same name about a boy’s love for his pet rat?

Unexpected changes may surprise you, but most will improve your earning potential. Be cautious with communication – misunderstandings could be costly if you rely on them entirely.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 2, 4

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 26, 34, 33, 1

Your energy levels are improving, but some plans may be delayed. A busy social schedule could leave you feeling drained if you don’t rest.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Mauve

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 2, 3

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 26, 37, 8, 9

Others’ opinions may overwhelm you. Avoid unnecessary hassles by focusing on your goals and blocking out distractions.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 1, 2, 1, 5

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 26, 35, 40, 33

Intriguing developments may leave you needing clarification. To avoid complications, trust reliable people and avoid careless friends.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 6, 2

Lotto Numbers: 2, 12, 26, 35, 40, 22

This is an excellent time for introspection. Make independent decisions and expect positive changes from those who want the best for you.

Answers: 1. Ricky Gervais. 2. Meringue. 3. The Monkees. They were created specifically for a television show in the mid-1960s, and their success was closely tied to the show’s popularity. While other groups like The Jackson 5 and The Osmonds predate them, they were not manufactured in the same way, having formed organically. 4. Howard Gardner. He outlined eight intelligences, including musical, interpersonal, spatial-visual, kinesthetic, intrapersonal, naturalistic, logical-mathematical, and linguistic. 5. Albert Einstein. 6. Bioluminescence. 7. The emu. 8. Potato blight. 9. The violin. 10. Michael Jackson. ‘Ben’ was his first number one single on the Billboard Hot 100, which at the age of 14, made him the third-youngest solo artist in history to achieve that. Getting in

Our office is at 2 Stawell Road, Horsham. Mail: PO Box 606, Horsham 3402. Telephone: 5382 1351

Website: www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au Email: weeklyadvertiser@team.aceradio.com.au For classified advertisements: 5382 1351 – email: horsham@aceradio.com.au

Advertising 5382 1351: Mark Sulic: marks@team.aceradio.com.au; Lee Meadows: leem@team.aceradio.com.au; Kelly Schilling: kschilling@aceradio.com.au; Danica Cutter: dcutter@aceradio.com.au; Heidi Higginson: heidih@aceradio.com.au; Lily Olver: lolver@aceradio.com.au

Newsroom 5382 1351: Lauren Henry: lhenry@aceradio.com.au; Bronwyn Hastings: bhastings@aceradio.com.au; Georgia Bailey: georgiab@team.aceradio.com.au

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Apricot

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 5, 2, 1, 3

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 26, 34, 22, 10

Romance ﬂourishes, and someone close may take an interest in your career. Be mindful of how you present yourself and think before you speak.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 5, 3, 2, 1

Lotto Numbers: 2, 15, 5, 12, 21, 22

You may recover something long thought lost. Adaptability will be essential as surprises unfold. A June-born individual could bring you luck.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 1, 6, 9, 8

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 26, 39, 5, 44

Trust your instincts this week, as they may guide you to success. To avoid setbacks, ensure all travel plans are organised and transparent.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Lilac

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 8, 7

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

Avoid entanglements with those who may demand more than you’re willing to give. Solutions to long-standing issues may present themselves.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Dark Green

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 5, 9, 6, 1

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 26, 5, 44, 3

If you’re well-prepared, this is a favourable time for financial speculation. However, domestic issues may require compromise to resolve lingering tensions.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 1, 5

Lotto Numbers: 8, 15, 29, 37, 40, 11

Career and financial prospects are strong, but you must act quickly to seize opportunities. Use your charm to resolve family matters peacefully.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 5, 9, 6, 1

Lotto Numbers: 5, 18, 24, 40, 26, 33

Your social life is thriving, and your presence is in demand. New challenges at work could highlight your ability to learn and adapt.

Classifieds

BUTLER

Asplin Donnell, Irene Nancy

23-9-1934 to 15-6-2025

Passed away peacefully

Loving Mother, Grandmother & Great Grandmother. Now in God’s care

CROWHURST, Muriel Alma

22-9-1938 to 15-6-2025

Passed away peacefully

Reunited with her beloved husband Max.

Dearly loved mother, motherin-law & Nan.

Forever in our hearts

HART, Dorece Elaine

Passed away on June 20, 2025

Loving wife of Ronald (dec).

Loving mother to John, Bryan, Leigh, Marrette, Laurene, Michael, Lynell and their families.

Adored Nana to 14 grandchildren and Great Nana to 17 great grandchildren. ‘Safe in the arms of Jesus’

MCFARLANE, Ronald Stewart

10.01.1940 – 16.06.2025

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Ron, who passed away suddenly at home.

Loving husband to Cecily of 62 years and father, father-inlaw, pa and g-pa of Grant & Tracey, Joshua, Kim, Frankie & Matilda, Joel, Stacey, Jaxen, Louis & Rune; Karen & Barry, Cindy, Michael, Hazel & Luna; Olivia & Igor; Jodie, Matt, Christie, Jess & Nic; Tracey (Dec), Adrian & Jeremy.

Horsham & District Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

STURROCK, Alys

Mum,

Many Unforgettable Memories.

Thanks for being the special person you’ve been.

You will be sadly missed, proud to be your son.

Love always, Peter, Stacey, Riley, Tristan and Macy.

TAYLOR, Margaret M, of Warracknabeal on June 22, 2025

Loved wife of Max.

Loved mother of Gary, Rodney (dec), Warren, Adrian and their families.

WOLLERMANN, Cedric Frank

Passed away in Dimboola Hospital on June 20, 2025 aged 95 years.

Son of Frank and Lucy Wollermann (nee King); twin brother of Morva Budde (dec); Alan Wollermann (‘Sam’) & Elaine Gazelle.

Dearly loved husband of Verna for over 70 years.

Devoted father and fatherin-law of Glenys and Mick, Ian and Janet, Faye and Tim.

Loved Grandpa of Chris & Bonnie, Lisa & James, Amanda & Benjamin, David & Kira, Jasmine, Lucas & Nina.

Great Grandpa to Charlotte & Penelope, Thea & William, & Hunter. Sadly missed. Resting peacefully in God’s Care.

WOOSTER, Owen Levitt

5-7-1940 to 10-6-2025

Our sweet, lovable, hilarious

Dad/Poppy passed away peacefully at the Ballarat Base Hospital on Tuesday, June 10, with family by his side.

We will always miss your quick wit – but all feel very grateful to have had you for this much of our adult lives.

Reunited with the true love of his life, Myra, Mum / Gaga. Darren, Cameron, Tony, Erica & Families.

Owen was honoured by a burial at Horsham Lawn cemetery on Monday, June 23.

Horsham & District Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

BUTLER

Asplin Donnell, Irene Nancy

23-9-1934 to 15-6-2025

Irene’s funeral service will be held at the Nhill Uniting Church, Monday, June 30 at 1pm Interment to follow at the Nhill Cemetery.

Emiley & Mathew Bone

Nhill, Dimboola & Kaniva District Funerals 0419 008 464

HART, Dorece Elaine

Requiem Mass will be offered for the Repose of the Soul of Dorece Elaine Hart at Ss Michael & John’s Catholic Church, Horsham on Monday, June 30, 2025 commencing at 1pm.

The service may be viewed online at www.youtube.com/@ smjchurchhorsham/streams

A private interment will take place at the Werribee Cemetery.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

MCFARLANE,

Ronald Stewart

The funeral service for the late Mr. Ronald Stewart McFarlane will be held at St Malachy’s Catholic Church, Edenhope on Friday 27th commencing at 2pm.

Following the service Ronald will be sent for cremation.

Refreshments and memories will be shared at the Edenhope Football club rooms after his service.

Amity & Dylan Hartwich 5382 1149

TAYLOR

A graveside service for Mrs Margaret M Taylor will be held at the Warracknabeal Lawn Cemetery on Monday, June 30, 2025 commencing at 1pm

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

Thank you

~ PEKIN ~ Marie ‘Lucille’ 29-5-1931 to 20-5-2025

The family of the late Marie ‘Lucille’ Pekin would like to sincerely thank everyone for their love, sympathy and support.

Thank you

~ JAKOBI ~ Doug

We would like to thank the doctors and nurses at Wimmera Health Care Group Horsham in A&E, ICU and Oxley for the care, respect and support given to Doug and us during his last days.

Many thanks to Suzanne Bysouth at Wimmera Funerals, Paster Jarrod Risson and team at Horsham Church of Christ for the service and afternoon tea.

To those who sent cards, flowers, food, made phone calls and visits, love and prayers. We appreciate all of your support and care.

Please accept our heartfelt thanks.

Irene, Wayne, Joylene, Sharon, Carolyn and families.

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

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

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Roosters, ducks and guinea fowl wanted to buy Ph 0480137184

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

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

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

$40,000 Ph 0427909230

2014 JB dirt roader

19’caravan, full ensuite queen bed, 3 way fridge washing machine, reverse cycle a/c diesel heater, Sirocco fans, 2 solar panels, 2 batteries, 280 litres water $44,000 Ph 0427902375 Beulah

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

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

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

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

2015 Jayco StarCraft 20ft 6’ dual axle, full ensuite, queen bed, L shape seating, full oven, agm battery bike rack, full size fridge freezer, reverse cycle heating cooling, washing machine, new tyres 12 months rego, ESC $39000 ono Ph 0429227860

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

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

2019 Ezy Trail Stirling GT

Mark 2 camper, EC, full annex, used 4 times, full rego $14,999 ono Ph 0428820446

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

or permanent

$5800ono Ph 0432544164

13’ 1992 Colt Caravan, tv, a/c, 2way fridge, awning, VGC,

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

Colorado Summit 210E 21’

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

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

MDC Highside Cruiser 2019, 3 ton McHitch, fridge, redarc dc to dc charger, EC $14,500 Ph 0407147996

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

REDUCED 2006 Concept

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

REDUCED 2009 Jayco

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

REDUCED 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 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

$55,000 Ph 0448099981

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

1997 Hercules Tipper

$76,000 plus Gst Ph 0428386295

Expression of interest, for sale, international 511 28

row trash floats combine, 211 33 tyne scarifier, 18 disc

Connor-Shea hyd lift 4 fold, B46 baler working order, Lowan round bale carrier Ph 0407911884 evenings

Header Gleaner R62, retired, no further use, $15,000+gst Ph 0438701392

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

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

23 PVC pipes, 39” long x 6.25” diameter, ideal planters $100 for the lot or $4 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

Camping equipment , 2 dome tents, 10 man and 4 man, sleeping chair tent, 3 roll up tables, shower tent, 2 gas stoves, 4 spare bottles, camp kitchen, blow up q/bed $450 Ph 0429164375

Camping Equipment, including as new Yamaha 2KVa inverter generator never used, aqua cube shower, porta potty, Komodo pantry, and clothesline $2500 Ph 0458683879

CCE cage on wheels 6x4 well made $400, 500 gallon ex fuel tank $100, Coolgardie safe $100, Ute crate, 6x4 tub tight $50, Bailey extension ladder 5.3 extends to 6.3 $500, new Holland Mower GC with parts, 44g drums ideal for grain feeding cattle, best offer Ph 0429857207

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

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

Galvanised trailer, 5x5 $800 Ph 53522691

Gold and opal ring, approx

80yrs old, current valuation

$4500 would like $2500 Ph 0458014560

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

J Berends pasture harrows 8’ $400 Ph 0429309491

Kirby Avalir 100th Anniversary, EC, clean and functions perfectly, includes filter bags, brand new home care system, all attachments some brand new $750 Ph 0429679481

Omega gold watch , approx 65yrs old, still keeps perfect time $1500ono Ph 0458014560

Pea straw small square bales, $7 per bale, great garden mulch, pickup or delivery to Horsham Ph 0488303725

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

Sherwell PTO bin $1200 Ph 0428857312

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

Strongberg Carlson Console Radio, ex condition Ph 53824316

Tent Dune Eyre, 10x10, near new, easy set up for Easter Ph 0491644368 Horsham

Toledo 4 berth dog float, good condition, reg til Dec 25 $950 Ph 0400192571

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

Round dining table with 4 velvet chairs $340 Ph 53824788

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

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

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

Invacare 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

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

0438354414

full service history, registered June 25, RWC, 317,000km, 1AG2PW $5500ono Ph 0428928248

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

2013 VE Commodore V6, grey, aftermarket exhausts, aftermarket speakers in doors, subs in boot, GC, will provide road worthy certificate, 240,000km, ZOT852 $9500 Ph 0488050839

Ford BF Sedan 2005, dual fuel, ex cond, 280,000kms, WIY315 $4500 Ph 0468 559 166

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

JHME6548005203141

$10,000 Ph 0428501109

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

2005 Isuzu NPR250 car license truck, 6 months rego, 230,000kms, 1OC9FA

$22,500 Ph 0438521591

2014 Toyota Hilux, 3 litre diesel, new shockers and springs and injectors, oil filter and oil every 600km, great for towing vans, 290,000kms

$25,500 Ph 0417109816

Landcruiser ute with slide on camper, 2002, 4.2 litre diesel, 4x4, Millhaven tray towbar, bullbar, Superwinch, tool lockers, Polyair bellows, Davsher hitchhiker camper, new 90L, 3-way dometic fridge/freezer, fiamma awning, 2 burner gas cooktop/griller, sink,120kW fold up solar panels, 200W inverter, 200AH AGM house batteries, queen bed, robe, spacious storage, midge-mesh screening, Highjacker hydraulic legs, 2nd spare wheel, plus extras, excellent condition, 228,961km, HZJ79R Ph 0427482976

Funeral remembrance videos edited with cherished media by professional, each project individual, AI photo restoration available Ph 0478609837

Keyte’s Mowing Service , lawn mowing, block slashing, general pruning, ABN 64050479274 Ph 53826461 or 0429309491

Massage service, very clean, full body massages available for both men and women, very discreet, you come to us or we can come to you, call for quote and booking, in the Wimmera area and beyond Ph 0473311660

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

2 tanker loads of water as running low Nhill area cash paid ph 53928295 and leave message

Wanted Mackenzie punch and shear, have you got one in the shed not being used? Ph 0499911102

Wanted to Buy, ferretts for hunting, Dimboola Ph 0402325444

1999 Toyota Dual Cab Ute, 4x4 diesel with fold out camper

$12,500 Ph 0428822730

2012 VE SV6 Commodore, excellent condition, auto, silver in colour, 4 months rego, full service history, near new tyres, 117,000kms, ZFC921 $19,500 Ph 0400823904

2015 Mitsubishi Triton

GLX 4x4, manual, regretful sale, 2nd owner, has tuffseat canvas seatcovers, Bridgestone dueler A/T tyres with minimal use, 165,300km, AEB150 $14,500 for more information Ph 0400213684

REDUCED 2013 Toyota

ATARA, 2.5L sports sedan, auto, RWC, Toyota seat covers, only 2 owners, selling due to downsizing, 127,000kms, $12,000 Ph 0400728252

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

2019 Ford Ranger XLS grey double cab with full screen, very good condition 125,000km, 8 mths rego, new tyres, snorkel, arb bull bar, air bags, side steps, black duck seat covers, under tray tool boxes, many extras always shedded, minimal towing

$45,000 inc Gst Ph Andrew 0427923236

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

Toyota Ute, no Ev tax on this one, dual cab SR5 auto transmission, 3 litre motor, diesel, 2011 model, RWC supplied, high rise canopy, tub liner, trailer pull, electric brakes, as new inside, 106,500 kms, YFK992

$32,500 plus Gst Ph 0428 832 227

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

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Miller wins way to fourth worlds

BY COLIN MACGILLIVRAY

WhenHorsham

triathlete Kel-

ly Miller tore her hamstring off the bone, there were times she thought her career in the sport might be over.

But less than a year later, Miller is preparing for her fourth Ironman World Championship in Hawaii after topping her age group at this month’s Ironman Cairns triathlon in Queensland.

The 45-year-old completed the 3.8km swim, 180km bike ride and 42.2km run in 10 hours, 18 minutes and 40 seconds to convincingly win the women’s age 45-49 division by nearly 10 minutes.

Miller said she was thrilled with the result after recovering from a devastating run of injuries in 2024.

“Last year in March I broke my ankle, then I got over that one and at the end of July I tore my hamstring off the bone,” she said.

“I was doing a trail run in the Grampians. We were doing a 30km run and we had about 5kms left when I just slipped on a rock.

“You see the footballers grab their bum when they do it, and that’s what I did. I didn’t hit the deck, but I just knew.

“It was two of the tendons, so I had surgery to repair the hammy in August.

“It was a long recovery. I had to work out how to sit on the toilet afterwards.

“It is still repairing now. I can still feel the nerves regenerating.”

Miller said there were ‘absolutely’ times when she doubted she could return to high-level triathlon competition.

“There were times when I thought I wasn’t going to be able to run or even get back to near where I was,” she said.

“The surgeon said it could be up to nine months of recovery before I could

run again, and I’m at about 10 months now, so I’m really pleased to think that I’ve been able to complete all that training and actually win a couple of races within that timeframe.”

Miller earned qualification for October’s world championships by winning an Ironman event in New Zealand in March, but said she was only now feeling close to her peak form. She was especially pleased with her result in the bike leg of the Cairns event, finishing as the 13th-fastest woman overall in a field that included 16 professional female triathletes.

“The conditions were very tough in Cairns – it was quite choppy,” she said.

“We swam in Palm Cove and I’m not used to the open water chop because all my training is done in the pool.

“Then on the bike it was really windy.

“Then the run was four laps in Cairns where the course was lined with spectators and volunteers, and the support was absolutely amazing.

“It was a great experience.”

Miller credited her coach and her

family for helping her to return to the sport she loved.

“I’d been in Hawaii training with my coach and a couple of professional women after I had the opportunity to go there for a training camp in May, which was really good,” she said.

“It does take a lot of time out training. I try to do the bulk of my training early in the morning before the kids are off to school and I go to work, but I’ve got a supportive workplace and family and friends, which certainly helps me keep trying to achieve these things.

“I’m really thrilled at how I’m going. Running in Cairns gave me a bit of confidence that my run is starting to get back to where it was.”

But Miller said her result at Cairns was ultimately ‘a stepping stone’ towards her larger goal of testing herself against the world’s best in Hawaii.

“This will be my fourth time qualifying for the world champs. To think of what I’ve been through last year and then to be able to qualify, I’m really happy,” she said.

“It’s just a never-give-up kind of attitude I guess.

“Now it’s just about keeping on top of the training, but giving the body and mind a bit of a rest now for a few weeks, and then we’ll start ramping it up again.”

RETURN TO FORM: Horsham triathlete Kelly Miller is preparing for her fourth Ironman World Championship in Hawaii after topping her age group at this month’s Ironman Cairns triathlon in Queensland.

sport

Increasing pressure on hockey teams

BY SIMON KING

As the Wimmera hockey season crosses over the halfway point, several teams are facing increasing pressure to make a statement of their intentions in the premiership race, while others have almost done enough to start refining their strategy for the finals.

The pivotal round-eight games will include the battle for second place on the open ladder between the incumbent Warrack Hoops and the in-form Horsham Hurricanes, and a rematch of last year’s women’s grand final between Kaniva and Yanac.

Open

A victory for the Hoops will see them earn some space between themselves and third place, while a successful outcome for the Hurricanes will draw them level on points with the Hoops, but their superior goal difference would see them rise to second.

The Warrack team has displayed some patchy form over the past month, but bounced back with a win at the weekend.

Warrack will be under pressure to improve further against a Hurricanes team that put in an impressive effort in their loss to the Tigers on Saturday.

Kaniva Cobras go into this round in third place on the ladder and face the daunting task of taking on the undefeated Tigers.

As the only team in the top four with a negative goal difference, even if they fail to inflict the Tigers’ first defeat in six years, they cannot afford to suffer a big loss if they are to stay in the race for a top-two finish.

Women

The women’s division will also feature some big games.

In a replay of last season’s grand final, Yanac and Kaniva will clash.

Yanac is yet to be defeated this season, and after a slow start, Kaniva finds itself in third place, battling with the resurgent Dimboola Roos for a top-two finish.

A win this weekend would keep Kaniva in with a chance to overtake Dimboola, but a loss could create a gap they might struggle to overcome before the finals.

The Roos, who had a tough hit-out in round six when they played out a draw with Kaniva, will not have an easy day as they plan to keep their grip on second place against a Nhill Thunderbirds team coming off a confidencebuilding win over Warracknabeal.

This will be a captivating encounter that could go either way, with either result having far-reaching consequences for the losing team and its final position on the ladder.

A bit is also riding on the game between the lower two teams on the ladder, where Horsham Jets need a convincing win if they have ambitions

of returning to the top four, while with nothing to lose, the Warrack Women could spring a surprise.

Under-16

There is also potential for some influential results in the under-16 division.

Kaniva Raiders are challenging to break into the top four, but might have their progress slowed by the undefeated Yanac Warriors, and Warrack Revengers could use a win to consolidate their place in the top four, but will have to work hard despite

meeting the sixth-placed Bombers, who were gallant in defeat to the Warriors last week.

Dimboola Kangaroos will have to be at their best if they are to take the points off the team above them on the ladder, the Nhill Leopards.

Round-seven results –

Open: Warrack Hoops 1 (goal, T. Jorgensen; best, T. Jorgensen, H. Wagenknecht, B. Williamson) d Nhill Rangers 0 (J. Knoll, J. Reichelt, D. Reichelt). Yanac Tigers 2 (S. Farmers, Z. Dorrington; Z. Dorrington, S. Farmers, B. Alexander) d Hor-

sham Hurricanes 0 (Z. Simmons, D. Jochinke, J. Hawke).

Women: Nhill Thunderbirds 9 (R. Clark 4, K. Clark 2, B. Clark, C. Shurdington, C. Bone; C. Shurdington, B. Clark, K. Clark) d Warrack Women 0 (O. Elsom, E. Williamson, K. Williamson). Yanac Women 7 (C. Alexander 2, A. Farmers 2, M. Mackley, E. Alexander, E. Wheaton; A. Farmers, M. Mackley, C. Alexander) d Horsham Jets 0 (L. Schilling, H. Mackereth, C. Lawson). Kaniva Women 0 (I. Williams, L. Stimson, B. Williams) drew with Dimboola Roos 0 (B. McMaster, C. Hadzig, J. Hauselberger). Under-16: Nhill Leopards 7 (O. Bone 2, B. Clark 2, T. Bee, D. Bee, H. Albrecht; O. Bone, B. Clark, D. Bee) d Warrack Revengers 2 (E. Elliott, C. Bentley; M. Bentley, S. Williamson, C. Peters). Yanac Warriors 3 (H. Zanker 3; H. Zanker, S. Pedie, L. Dickinson) d Horsham Bombers 2 (H. Knoop 2; H. Knoop, O. Knoop, J. Mackereth). Kaniva Raiders 2 (J. Beattie 2; J. Beattie, F. Dodson, J. White) d Dimboola Kangaroos 1 (R. Wallace; R. Williams, V. Ward, L. Hauselberger).

Development program: Warrack Avengers 0 v Nhill Bandits 7 (D. Hyde 2, M. Sardhara, H. Albrecht, N. Krelle, M. Marra, A. Marra). Yanac Lowan Stars 4 (C. Alexander, Z. Rethus, M. Campbell, P. Dart) v Horsham Black Hawks 2 (Z. Wyrzykowski, L. Rose). Kaniva Rampagers 2 (A. Curtis, R. Williams) v Dimboola Kookaburras 3 (L. Elliott 3).

CONTROL: Horsham Hurricanes’ Justin Hawke plays the ball away from a penalty corner under the watchful eye of goalkeeper Lars Simmons, while Tigers’ Zach Dorrington waits for a loose ball. Picture: JOHN O’DWYER

Powerlifters see results

Four Horsham powerlifters have returned from national titles with a swag of medals.

Selina Smith, Paul Sanders, Karl Hornsby and Ben Hogan all medalled at Powerlifting Australia national championships at the weekend.

Hogan, Horsham’s Anytime Fitness manager, took out the main prize, winning the overall best lifter trophy.

“Having four guys from Horsham medal and to win the overall lifter trophy was amazing,” he said.

“It was great to have such a strong team from Horsham head to Melbourne.

“I didn’t expect to get the overall male lifter, but you obviously put the work in and it always pays off, so it’s good to have such good support by these guys.”

To win the overall prize, athletes obtain a Wilks score, which measures strength in powerlifting against other powerlifters with different bodyweights across both genders.

The power-to-weight ratio formula was invented by Robert Wilks of Powerlifting Australia.

Smith said many world records were broken at the titles.

“Not by us, but that’s alright. It shows how well our team went. I came first in my weight division and first in my 40-44 age division,” she said.

“I’m very happy with that. I got two personal bests and two Australian records. I got an Australian record for my squat, 165kg, and Australian record from my overall total of 420kg.”

Horsham lifters results: Ben Hogan, under 85kg, best lifter 1st; Selina Smith, under 100kg, 1st; Masters 40-44, 1st; Paul Sanders, Masters 60-64 1st, under 105kg, 2nd; Karl Hornsby, under 85kg, 3rd.

Thriving junior program

Laharum Football Netball Club is celebrating about $2500 of new equipment, purchased with money from the Australian Sports Foundation’s Active Kids Grants program.

The Active Kids Grants, backed by sports-based philanthropic organisation the Dickinson Foundation, this year distributed more than $600,000 to sporting clubs across Australia, helping them purchase new uniforms and equipment.

Laharum secretary Rowena Doyle said the club used its grant to purchase equipment specifically for its junior football and netball players.

“We’ve got adjustable netball rings because for the little minis the rings are a long way up. It will make it a

little lower down for them,” she said.

“We’ve got smaller balls and soft balls so the little ones know where to put their hands.

“We’ve got heaps of footballs and netballs, rebounders … and there’s a squeegee so we can get water off the courts when they’re wet.”

Mrs Doyle said she hoped the new equipment would help Laharum maintain its thriving junior programs.

“We’re very blessed with junior numbers this year. We’ve got lots of people, and lots of new faces, too, with the women’s and girls’ football,” she said.

“It gets packed in the clubrooms, so we’ll need new clubrooms next.”

Community grants

Ararat Rural City Council has awarded more than $28,000 to sporting clubs and community organisations in the latest round of its Community Support Grants.

The program provides grants of up to $5000 on a twofor-one basis for community-led initiatives that aim to boost engagement in sports, recreation, cultural events, arts accessibility and sustainability.

The council awarded a total of $28,410 to nine local organisations in the latest round, funding the following projects:

Ararat Neighbourhood House, for an annual Punjabi Indian community festival; Ararat Show Society, to install 15-amp power points and a sensor, as well as lights at the Ararat Showgrounds; Australian Plant Society Grampians Group, for Pomonal Native Flower Show; Chalambar Golf Club, for a native shrub and tree-planting project, Lake Bolac Eel Festival, for its 2026 festival; Moyston Progress Association, to spread awareness of facilities at Moyston Recreation Reserve by installing signage visible to passing tourists; Moyston Public Parks Committee of Management, to replace inside chairs used by community groups; Ararat Scout Group, to purchase new camping equipment; Willaura and District Community Development Group, to upgrade Willaura Lions Club Playground.

Deputy mayor Bob Sanders said applications for the next round of grants under the program would open soon.

“We’re really proud to support our local clubs, community groups and organisations with funding to enable them to deliver important projects and initiatives such as these,” he said.

“We’re committed to continuing this support, and our 2025-26 budget demonstrates this with a further $100,000 investment in this initiative.

“If your local group or organisation is considering applying, now’s the time to start planning your application so that you’ll be ready to submit as soon as the next round of grants is announced.”

People can find more information about the program online at ararat.vic.gov.au/communitygrants.

REWARD: Ben Hogan, Karl Hornsby and Selina Smith medalled at Powerlifting Australia national titles at the weekend, alongside fellow Horsham athlete Paul Sanders.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

NEW EQUIPMENT: Laharum Football Netball Club juniors, from left, Charlie Arnott, Connor Wilde, William Koch, Chase Whelan, Bailey Barry, Sienna Wood and Marlie Roberts show off some of the new sport equipment granted to the club.