The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Rallying to be seen

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Disability support workers rallied at Ararat and Stawell last week, fighting for more funding for clients, and better wages and conditions for employees.

As changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme, NDIS, are introduced across Australia, the workers, employed by provider Possability, rallied outside town halls to publicly highlight issues within the disability sector – including the closure of homes for people with a disability in the region.

At Stawell on Wednesday last week, Health And Community Services Un-

ion, HACSU, branch secretary Paul Healey said the action came at the end of the Federal Government’s subsidy period.

“Eight years ago the State Government privatised into five entities, one of which is Possability, and that subsidy has run out,” he said.

“We’re bargaining for a new agreement, making sure that there’s good wages, conditions, and all the things staff need to make a liveable wage and a liveable job.

“But also, our campaign is about ensuring there’s good housing and continuity of care for the participants and their families.”

Mr Healey said disability housing

was being closed across the state.

“There’s been over 80 ex-government houses shut in the last couple of years – there’s been four in Stawell and one in Ararat,” he said.

“Currently, around 490 homes statewide are at risk, with 26 in the Stawell and Ararat regions facing potential closure. We are also saying that you have got to have the right staffing for the right people, and you have got to be able to access community and be involved in all the things participants need to live their best possible lives.

“That’s what our people are about, it’s not just a job, it’s our care and profession, and they really do care –

it’s not unusual for staff to spend 30 or 40 years in the same house with the same people. The better you know someone, the better the outcomes.”

Mr Healey said the homes’ closures could result in participants living in hospitals, becoming homeless, being ‘prisoners in their own homes’ and not having their needs met.

“That’s not what we want – we want people to live a quality life,” he said.

“We know that when they’re in the community, it embraces them, and they have really positive lives, especially country towns like this.”

NDIS provider Possability began in Tasmania in 1989 and in 2016 merged with another support service

to become the state’s largest. It now services Victoria’s Grampians and Loddon areas, along with suburbs in Melbourne’s western outskirts. In an online statement, Possability outlined changes that would be progressively introduced during the next four years, beginning next month.

“Changes like these can bring uncertainty – we want to communicate with you directly to share what this means and to reassure you that we’re here to support,” the statement read.

“The NDIS is a vital part of our community, supporting thousands of Australians with disability to live life their way.”

Continued page 3

IMPACTFUL: Family violence advocates, workers and supporters gathered in Horsham on Monday night for Wimmera Committee Against Family Violence’s annual candlelit walk and vigil. Beginning at Ward Street, the walk continued through the main street to Sawyer Park, where guest speakers shared their perspectives on the issue. A lit display of 716 table tennis balls represented each reported incident of family violence in Horsham in the past financial year. Ulani Hobbs, left, and Rhianna Williams share messages of support during the walk. Story, page 7.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

HRCC NEWS

Haven tennis lighting upgrade to boost participation and access

Horsham Rural City Council is delivering a major upgrade to sporting infrastructure at Haven, with new tennis court lighting set to significantly expand participation opportunities for the local community.

The Haven Tennis Lighting Project will deliver a regionallevel upgrade at the Haven Recreation Reserve, including compliant, energy-efficient lighting across 12 competition courts. The project also includes peripheral lighting to support safe access, along with an automated lighting system.

Once complete, the upgraded facility will support training and competition beyond daylight hours, helping meet the needs of a growing and active community.

Mayor Cr Brian Klowss said the project would be a gamechanger for participation at Haven.

“This project is about opening the door to more people being active, more often,” Cr Klowss said.

“By extending the usable hours of the facility, we’re supporting local clubs to grow, easing pressure on existing schedules, and making it easier for people to participate in ways that suit their lives.”

The new lighting will increase training capacity, support junior and female participation, and create opportunities to host regional-level tournaments. It will also provide greater flexibility for competitions and broader community use.

“We know access to quality facilities is one of the biggest drivers of participation,” Mayor Klowss said.

“This investment ensures Haven remains a welcoming, accessible and inclusive space for the whole community.”

Construction timelines and further project updates will be shared with the community as works progress.

Horsham Rural City Council acknowledges the Victorian Government for its valued partnership and significant investment of $250,000 toward the $592,925 (ex. GST) Haven Tennis Lighting Project.

Council also thanks Tennis Victoria for its ongoing support and valuable input during the planning phase, helping ensure the project meets the needs of a regional tennis facility now and into the future.

NOTICE OF PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION

The land affected by the application is located at:

•141 Derry Parade, Horsham VIC 3400

•129 Derry Parade, Horsham VIC 3400

The application is for a permit for: Variation of restriction

A permit is required under the following clauses of the planning scheme:

•Clause 52.02 - Easements, Restrictions and Reserves - Permit Required Under Section 23 of the Subdivision Act 1988 to create, vary or remove an easement or restriction, or vary or remove a condition in the nature of an easement in a Crown grant.

The applicant for the permit is: Ferguson Perry Surveying

The application reference number is: PA2601000

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application by:

•Visiting the planning section at hrcc.vic.gov.au

•Using a smart device to access via QR code

•In person at the office of Horsham Rural City Council 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham VIC 3400 Telephone: (03) 5382 9777. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge. Contact Officer: Max Milne.

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

An objection must:

•Be made to the Responsible Authority in writing

•Include the reasons for the objection

•State how the objector would be affected.

HRCC will not decide on the application before: Wednesday 13 May, 2026.

If you object HRCC will inform you of its decision.

Next Council Meeting: Monday, May 25, 2026 - 5.30pm Horsham Rural City Council: 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham | Postal address: PO

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

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The removal of parking meters delivers on a much-awaited change for the community and businesses, and finalises Council’s transition to free, time-limited parking in the city centre.

The decision followed strong support from the community and local businesses, and reflects Council’s ongoing commitment to improving accessibility, supporting local trade, and enhancing the overall visitor experience in the CBD.

While the works program is not expected to cause major delays, there may be minor obstructions to foot traffic in some locations as crews undertake the removal process. Pedestrians are encouraged to take care around work areas and follow any temporary signage in place.

Mayor Cr Brian Klowss said Council was proud to be delivering on its commitment to the community.

“We said we would listen to our community and take action, and that’s exactly what we’re doing,” Cr Klowss said.

“Removing these parking meters is about following through on our promise and delivering a practical outcome people can see and experience every day.”

“This change supports our local businesses, makes it easier for people to access the CBD, and reinforces our commitment to putting the needs of our community first.”

Two-hour free parking will continue in signed areas, with existing time limits—such as 30-minute, two-hour and four-hour zones—remaining in place and enforced through traditional methods.

Council thanks the community for its patience and cooperation while these works are carried out.

TENDERS AND RFQ

Q19/2026

KERBSIDE BIN AUDIT

Closes Sunday 17 May

Q14/2026

CITY OVAL - HOCKING STREET FENCING Closes Friday 8 May

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

Money for Ararat, Stawell schools

BY LAUREN HENRY

Ararat and Stawell primary schools were the big winners in the region as details of the 2026-27 Victorian Budget were released yesterday.

Ararat Primary School will receive a funding allocation of $9.358-million, while Stawell Primary School has been allocated $12.397-million for upgrades, with an estimated completion date by 2029.

They are among 31 government schools – including nine in regional Victoria – that will be upgraded through a $294.8-million allocation.

The Budget also features $481-mil-

Support workers united

From page 1

“It is important the scheme remains strong and is shaped by the voices and experiences of people who rely on it every day,” the Possability statement read.

It also outlined key changes to the NDIS, including: eligibility –based on how someone’s disability affects their daily life, not just their diagnosis; plan reassessments – less frequent, unless there are significant changes to support needs; community and social participation – budgets will be reviewed and re-set, which will likely reduce funds, but a new $200-million Inclusive Communities Fund will be created.

Other changes include: support co-ordination and plan management – participants may need to choose providers from a government-approved list; provider registration and quality – especially for those delivering higher-risk supports; and pricing and payments – a new digital payment system will make payments easier to track and help to investigate and prevent fraud.

Possability said in the statement, addressed to clients, that it we welcomed the stronger provider registration requirements across the sector to ensure services were safe, high-quality, consistent, and accountable.

“As these changes take effect,

lion for regional transport services – with transport across Victoria a key feature of this year’s budget, including a 20 per cent savings on all car registrations, saving regional drivers with one car up to $186, and a family with two cars $348.

But Member for Lowan Emma Kealy said the budget sealed Premier Jacinta Allan and Labor’s legacy as the ‘most fiscally reckless government in Victoria’s history’.

Ms Kealy said the budget was one of higher debt, higher taxes, higher interest repayments, blowouts and delays, and lacked any plan to grow the state’s economy or provide meaningful support to Victorians.

She said the budget contradicted Ms Allan’s claims of a ‘surplus’, by confirming a cash deficit of $7.7-billion.

“Under Labor, criminal offending is at an all-time high, it takes longer to get an ambulance today than it did 10 years ago, construction of new homes is at a decade low, roads are littered with potholes and at least $15-billion has been lost to corruption on major projects,” she said.

“In coming years, interest repayments will reach $1.35-million an hour and Victoria will spend more money servicing its record debt than it does on Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria and all kindergarten services combined.

“Victoria cannot continue on this path.

“Our state needs a fresh start and a new approach to managing the books – one that is honest, transparent and clear about the challenges ahead, and that is what the Nationals and Liberals will deliver in government.”

Ms Kealy said cuts to regional development and agriculture showed Labor continued to ignore the needs of regional Victorians.

“At the same time, Victorians are hit with a $6.87-billion bill for the emergency services tax – double what they used to pay under the Fire Services Property Levy,” she said.

“This is a bad Labor government

we’re ready to work closely with you, the government, and the National Disability Insurance Agency,” the statement read.

“We want to make sure your voice is heard in these conversations. We look forward to participating in upcoming consultations to inform the details of these changes, so they strengthen quality and safety and protect choice and control.

“For now, there is no immediate change to your services. Our commitment remains the same, and we will continue to provide high-quality supports for you at every stage.”

Speaking at the rally, James McWhinney said the group was

sending a message to Possability, and to the state and federal governments about the need to care for the people who provide disability support.

“The reason we’re in high-vis, we’ve got helmets on and we’re wearing colourful shirts is because we know the State Government doesn’t see the valuable work that disability support workers do every day,” he said.

“So, we want to see if the State Government and the premier can see us now that we’re here in our high-vis.”

HACSU senior industrial officer Patrick Stephenson said negotia-

tions had ‘come a long way’ since September. “But we’re not where we need to be – it wasn’t really progressing very well, but things really started to turn the corner when we filed our protective action ballot,” he said.

“That really got them to sit up and start taking some of our claims seriously.

“A couple of weeks ago they were offering $120 for a sleepover; when we started, it was $65.

“Yesterday it was up to $123, so, we’re inching forward, but it’s still not an offer that is good enough.

“So we’re going to have to keep fighting for a while longer.”

which should tell the truth: every unfunded promise today is a tax hike or a service cut tomorrow.”

Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora said the Budget provided $5.9-million for programs that supported the health, safety and wellbeing of farmers and agricultural communities, including funding for the National Centre for Farmer Health and for the Rural Financial Counselling Service.

“This Budget delivers real cost of living relief for families across western Victoria – 20 per cent off rego and support for families with the cost of education,” she said.

New minister tours Birchip project site

New Victorian Agriculture and Regional Development Minister Michaela Settle was in Birchip last week, where she visited BCG.

As part of the visit, Ms Settle toured BCG’s Phosphorus Use Efficiency trial at Lachy Barber’s property in Karyrie, with soils expert James Nuttall guiding the minister through the trial site.

BCG chief executive Fiona Best provided Ms Settle with an overview of BCG’s work, highlighting the organisation’s long-standing contribution to research, innovation and farmer-driven outcomes.

The visit gave the opportunity to discuss future BCG projects, including the vision for BCG Nexus – an accommodation and conference facility proposed in Birchip.

Ms Best said the project was designed to attract researchers, students and industry professionals to spend time in the region, working directly with farmers and gaining a deeper understanding of the realities faced by farming communities.

“The facility will provide a central hub where visitors can engage with local producers, conduct trials and ensure research and development outcomes are practical, relevant and readily adopted,” she said.

Ms Best said the minister appreciated being briefed on the project and positively spoke on how it sought to benefit not just the Birchip community, but the broader region and the future of agricultural research.

RALLYING TO BE SEEN: Stephanie Thueseni, James McWhinney and Paul Healey, front, lead members of the Health And Community Services Union, HACSU, staging a stop work in Stawell on Wednesday last week. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Absolute Curtain Co

Acacia Caravan Park

SHOP AT THESE PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES

Choices Flooring By Westside

Stawell & Horsham

Clarks Furniture

Ararat Auto & Ag Services

Ararat Ford

Autopro Stawell

BCH Accountants

BJ’s Furniture and Bedding

Capital Horsham

Cellarbrations at Superstore

Horsham

Centre for ParticipationLaneway Cafe

Cooks of Horsham

DMD Horsham & Nhill

Forty Winks Horsham

Geoffreys of Warracknabeal

Gold Star Self Storage

Grampians Office Services

Harcourts Horsham

Harvey Norman Ararat

Harvey Norman Horsham

Hermans of Horsham

Horsham Amcal Pharmacy

Horsham Auto Glass

Horsham Golf Club

Horsham Living

Horsham RSL

Horsham Sports and Community Club

J&A Fencing

JWR Accounting & Advisory Services

KLM Nursery

Mackays Family Jewellers

Poolwerx

Preston Builders

Quinn & Co Eyecare

Rural Northwest Health

Spotlight Horsham

Stawell Lotto

Stawell Pharmacy

The Victoria Hotel Horsham

Tyrepower Horsham

Wilson Bolton Horsham

Wimmera Aquatrail

Wimmera Bearings

Wimmera Mallee Ag

Wimmera Outdoors

Wimmera Spas & Pool

Councillor declares absence

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Ararat Rural City councillor Jo Armstrong last week flagged her intention to take a leave of absence from council duties in the lead-up to November’s Victorian election after the Nationals announced her as their candidate for Ripon.

Cr Armstrong has been a councillor for the past 10 years and has served five one-year terms as mayor, most recently in 2024-25.

The Nationals announced her as their candidate for Ripon on April 14, and at last week’s council meeting she said she would commence a leave of absence closer to the election date.

In Victoria, councillors standing as candidates in state or federal elections must take a leave of absence from council duties once the Governor of Victoria issues election writs and they are officially nominated – typically 25 days before the election.

But Cr Armstrong said she intended

Emergency pathways

Girls on Fire will deliver a free fire and resilience one-day program at Horsham on Tuesday, in a multiagency event that offers participants the opportunity to step into the world of emergency services through hands-on learning, practical challenges and teamwork-based activities.

For girls and gender-diverse participants aged from 14 to 19 years, the immersive program aims to give confidence and create pathways within emergency services, disaster recovery and community resilience roles.

Supported by Forest Fire Management Victoria, Parks Victoria, VICSES, CFA, Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria, it is the threeyear-old’s program’s first event at Horsham.

Parks Victoria’s Samantha Hall said Tuesday’s session was designed to show girls and young women their potential in the various sectors.

“You can’t be what you can’t see,” she said.

“Girls on Fire puts girls in uniform, running activities and feeling what it’s like to be an emergency services worker, while giving that exposure to career pathways as well.

to begin her leave earlier than required.

“In declaring my candidacy for Ripon, I undertake that I will in due course take a leave of absence from council,” she said.

“I’d like to draw the distinction between being endorsed for candidacy and nomination as a candidate, because there is often misunderstanding around this difference.

“Candidates can be endorsed on entirely different timelines in the months and weeks leading up to an election, and there’s variance across political parties in how this process is undertaken – and indeed, there is variance across electorates. But there is a uniform timeline in regard to the state election in Victoria, and that is that the Governor of Victoria will issue election writs around 25 days before the fixed election day of November 28.

“I intend to take a leave of absence from council prior to those writs being issued and that date of nomination.

“At this point in time I do not know

the date at which I will commence my leave of absence from council, but up until that time, I wish to assure council and our community that I will maintain my dual roles separately.”

Cr Armstrong said she informed council chief executive Tim Harrison, along with her fellow councillors, in writing as soon as she became aware she had been preselected as the Nationals’ Ripon candidate.

She said she would carry out her council duties with impartiality and accountability.

“I will act with integrity and avoid potential conflicts of interest, and not misuse my position – nor will I misuse council resources,” she said.

“As I have pledged, I will continue to faithfully and impartially carry out and exercise the functions, powers, authorities and discretions invested in me under the Local Government Act 2020 and any other act to the best of my skill and judgement.”

At the same meeting, council voted

to adopt a new Councillor Candidature Policy – State or Federal Elections.

Chief operating officer Chandra Willmott said council officers developed the document to comply with Municipal Association of Victoria protocol and that it would provide clear guidelines for councillors standing as candidates in state or federal elections.

“The purpose of this policy is to support good governance, transparency and community confidence by clarifying expectations, managing potential conflicts of interest and ensuring continuity of council operations,” she said.

“Since the change in the Local Government Act 2020 we haven’t reviewed this policy and we feel it’s time to do so prior to any councillor seeking nomination or election to state or federal parliament.”

Cr Armstrong declared a conflict of interest and excused herself from a vote on the policy, with the remaining six councillors voting unanimously to adopt it.

“We’ve had lots of young females from Girls on Fire become Forest Fire Management seasonal firefighters.”

VicSES will stage a rescue scenario that includes casualty-handling, CFA will host a search-and-rescue

Childcare centre to close doors

Community Kids Horsham is one of 12 childcare centres in Victoria set to close after parent company G8 Education confirmed its decision to suspend 40 services across Australia.

The closure leaves families at the Baillie Street centre needing to find an alternative childcare option in a market where places are already in demand.

G8 Education released a statement last week ahead of its annual general meeting that it would close nearly 10 per cent of its 395 centres across Australia.

The early childhood education and care provider also has centres under names such as Headstart, Jellybeans, Kool Kids and Kindy Patch Kids.

G8 Education says the closures are part of an ‘ongoing focus on long-term sustainability and the delivery of high-quality outcomes for children and families’.

G8 Education chief executive and managing director Pejman Okhovat said the decision reflected the responsibility of one of Australia’s largest providers to adapt to a changing operating environment, with the safety, rights and best interests of children as the paramount consideration.

Mr Okhovat said the sector was experiencing unprecedented change and uncertainty, driven by a combination of socio- and macro-economic factors, including evolving family demand, lower birth rates and changing operating conditions.

“At G8 Education, we continuously review how we operate to ensure we can continue delivering safe, high-quality early education and care for children and families, both now and into the future,” he said.

“We have a responsibility to operate sustainably and responsibly, in a way that delivers the best possible outcomes for families and supports children to grow, thrive and learn in safe and supportive environments.”

Mr Okhovat said G8 Education was continuing to work closely with regulators in each state and territory, and federally, throughout the process.

activity alongside extinguisher use, while FFMV will demonstrate dry firefighting tools and techniques. Firefighting vehicles and a fire science land management activity will also be part of the day’s activities. Girls on Fire’s job pathways pro-

gram for people aged from 18 to 24 years will offer participants similar activities on Wednesday next week.

People can find more information and register at girlsonfire.org.au.

– Bronwyn Hastings

“Our immediate focus remains on supporting families to transition to one of its nearby centres and redeploying team members, where possible,” he said.

G8 Education will then consider longer-term options for affected centres including lease surrender, divestment or other alternatives.

LEADERS: From left, Lily French, Lauren Todman, Crystal Sanders, Caitlyn Mott and Samantha Hall are looking forward to a Girls On Fire one-day fire and resilience program. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Speeding? Expect a minimum fine of $254.

fine of $254 and 1 demerit point. Police and speed cameras can be anywhere, so why take the risk? Chances are you will be caught. Anywhere. Anytime. Anyone.

Family violence a ‘complex issue’

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

H

orsham’s community showed its stance on family violence with a walk through its main street in Wimmera Committee Against Family Violence’s annual walk and ceremony on Monday.

The event recognised 716 reported incidents of family violence at Horsham, 106,426 across the state, and more than 250,000 nationally.

WCAFV president Geoff Miller introduced guests Horsham Mayor Brian Klowss, Allied Justice’s Emily Nester, advocate Simone O’Brien, The Orange Door’s Renee Clarkson, and Victoria Police’s Mitch Gallop, who spoke from their personal and professional perspectives.

During the ceremony, Mr Miller acknowledged the impact of family violence on individuals, families and communities, and also acknowledged those who provided support services to family violence survivors.

“Tonight, we will remember those who have died as a result of family violence, highlight the impacts and costs, and very importantly, show our support to those who are experiencing family violence,” he said.

“It is not an issue confined to a particular group, race, religion, or income level. It’s something which affects us all.

“It’s entirely preventable and has no place in our society.”

Cr Klowss said Horsham’s walk was one of hundreds across the country during domestic and family violence prevention month.

“The statistics are horrifying,” he said.

“About one in four women in Australia have experienced violence by an intimate partner; that rises to almost one in two in regional Victoria, and children are present in one in three of those incidents that are attended by the police.”

Cr Klowss said WCAFV was dedicated to raising awareness of ‘this terrible stain on our community’.

“WCAFV is also instigating positive change through its work with survivors, support agencies, and even the perpetrators,” he said.

“Some people brought up in a violent or abusive household are at risk of repeating that abuse, others may have mental health or other issues impacting their behaviour.

“None of this is an excuse for violence, but it does point to the complexity of its causes, and how sometimes both the victim and perpetrator need help.”

Ms Clarkson, The Orange Door’s child protection program’s team manager, has worked in the field for almost two decades.

“When we speak about family violence, we often centre on adult experiences – and rightly so, because the impact is so profound,” she said.

“But in doing so, we can unintentionally overlook the children who are living within these environments every day, children who may not have the language to explain what’s happening, children who may not even realise that what they are experiencing is family violence, but they feel it deeply.

“The tension that sits in a room, the unspoken rules of the house, the way a parent, usually their mother, might change her behaviours to keep the peace, to avoid escalation, to protect herself and her children.”

Ms Clarkson said a child living with family violence does not just witness it, they experience it.

“It shapes how safe they feel in their own home, it affects how they learn, how they form relationships and how they see themselves and the world around them,” she said.

“For some children, home is not a place of comfort. It is unpredictable, and it is tense.

“It is where they learn to read the mood instead of books, to listen for footsteps instead of laughter, to stay quiet instead of speaking freely.

“And yet many of these children remain invisible. They show up to school, to sport, and in our community, they might seem withdrawn or anxious, or sometimes even disruptive.

“But what we’re seeing is not the problem – it’s a response to what they have lived or are living with every day.”

Ms Clarkson said listening to children did not always mean hearing the words, sometimes it meant noticing their changes in behaviour, and being prepared to create a safe space for the child.

“When a child has even one safe, consistent, caring adult in their life, it can make a profound difference,” she said.

“A teacher, a coach, a neighbour, a family member, someone who sees them, who listens, and who believes them, that connection can be the turning point.

“Let’s commit to noticing them, let’s commit to listening to them, and more

importantly, let’s commit to acting, so that every child can grow up in a home where they feel safe, valued and heard.

“Every child deserves more than to just be protected from harm, they deserve the chance to thrive.”

Horsham Police’s Family Violence Unit’s Sergeant Gallop said family violence was not a private nor hidden issue, but a community issue.

“Family violence affects people of all ages, backgrounds and communities. It impacts women, men and children,” he said.

“It leaves lasting, emotional, psychological and physical harm. But most importantly it is preventable, and it is never acceptable.”

Sergeant Gallop said one of Victoria Police’s highest priorities was responding to family violence.

“Every report is taken seriously, every call for help matters,” he said.

“We are committed to holding respondents accountable, and just as importantly, to support our victims with respect, com

passion and dignity.

“But policing alone cannot solve this issue – prevention starts in our homes, our schools, our workplaces and in the attitudes we model every day.

“It begins with teaching, respect, equality and healthy relationships.

“It continues when we speak up, when we check in on someone we’re connected to, and when we support those who find the courage to come forward.

“To anyone experiencing family violence, you’re not alone. Help is available. You’ll be heard and you deserve to feel safe.”

• People who need help can call support services including: 1800 RESPECT – or 1800 737 732; Grampians Community Health on 5358 7400; or the Sexual Assault and Family Violence Centre on 5381 1211.

People in immediate danger should call triple zero.

Sporting spaces light up

Sporting facilities in Stawell and St Arnaud will light up throughout the next few months, with Northern Grampians Shire Council launching its Ready, Set, Glow campaign.

The campaign follows the success of last year’s Northern Gramps Girls Can initiative, which included lighting up spaces in the early evening to encourage women and girls to be active in safe, inclusive environments.

Mayor Karen Hyslop said the council chose to extend the lighting campaign to include early mornings and incorporate the whole community, following positive feedback from the community.

Ready, Set, Glow started on Monday and will run until September 30, incorporating events at North Park, Stawell and Lord Nelson Park, St Arnaud.

Proudly sponsored by Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN for parents and carers across

Shaun Casey, Sandra Casey, Erin Wallace

TAKING A STAND: Shine The Light Wimmera Committee Against Family Violence supporters join the walk.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

A Fresh Chapter at The Royal

MEET CHEF JOCK STURROCK

There’s a new energy in the

There’s a quiet confidence that comes with experience, and at Royal Hotel Horsham, that’s exactly what chef Jock Sturrock brings to the kitchen.

A familiar name in Horsham, Jock has been cooking since 1978, working across nearly every pub and venue in town. Now, around ten months into his role at the Royal, he’s focused on rebuilding consistency and drawing locals back in.

“We’re starting to see good numbers come through,” he says. “It’s about building that momentum.”

Known for his quality pub meals, particularly his steaks, Jock’s approach is simple, keep standards high and let the food speak for itself.

“Once you lower your standards, you lower your reputation,” he says.

With a strong team behind him and the kitchen open for dinner seven days a week from around 5:30pm, the Royal is finding it’s new rhythm. For locals, it’s a return to what matters most, reliable, well cooked meals in a welcoming pub setting. And with Jock at the helm, it’s in safe hands.

2. HOSPITALITY AT HEART

Brings great food to great people – it’s about the experience

3. WELCOMING ATMOSPHERE

The Royal’s historic dining room – perfect for any occasion and there’s free function room hire!

kitchen at the Royal Hotel – and it starts with Chef Jock Sturrock.

1. IN THE KITCHEN Chef Jock brings precision and passion to every preparation

Hub uncertainty ‘at worst time’

Member for Mallee and shadow minister for regional communications Anne Webster is calling on the Federal Government to continue funding the Regional Tech Hub – a service that supports people living in regional, rural and remote Australia with phone and internet services.

Funding for the Regional Tech Hub is due to expire at the end of the financial year, with no word on whether it will be extended.

The Federal Government has fully funded the service, delivered by the National Farmers’ Federation, since 2020 with about $6-million allocated during the past three years.

The Regional Tech Hub is not taking new bookings after May 31 due to the funding uncertainty.

Dr Webster and shadow minister for communications and digital safety Sarah Henderson have called on the government to provide the certainty for regional Australians.

“The Regional Tech Hub provides essential, independent support for people navigating complex and often unreliable telecommunications services in regional Australia,” Ms Henderson said.

“Anyone who lives in the regions knows getting reliable phone and internet access is still far more difficult and complex than it should be.

“Regional Australians are dealing with patchy coverage, mobile black spots, power outages and the chaos of network changes like the 3G shutdown. The Regional Tech Hub cuts through the bureaucracy and provides trusted, independent advice.”

Dr Webster said the funding uncertainty came at the worst possible time, with major telecommunications changes underway including Telstra’s retirement of CAN Radio and legacy ADSL

infrastructure, uncertainty over the universal outdoor mobile obligation and the continuing fallout from the botched shutdown of the 3G network.

“Rolling out big policy changes without properly supporting people to understand and use them is a recipe for failure,” she said.

“The Regional Tech Hub is the bridge between high-level announcements and real-world outcomes. Without it, people will be left behind.”

Dr Webster said regional Australians deserved certainty when it came to essential services.

“Regional Australians are sick of being treated as second-class citizens. Cutting support for a service which helps people stay connected is cutting in exactly the wrong place. Regional Australians deserve certainty – not silence,” she said.

“The Regional Tech Hub helps around 75 regional Australians every single day to stay connected – whether that’s running a business, accessing telehealth, studying online, or simply being able to call triple zero in an emergency.”

Dr Webster said the National Farmers’ Federation had requested a one-year extension to continue the service.

“We’re saying they should be funded with another three years, and potentially four years, of the funding that they’re currently receiving,” she said.

“They do a phenomenal service, hundreds of thousands of people assisted in each year, with the services they provide to assist people who might not be incredibly tech savvy, which I suspect is particularly our older regional community members.

“They need help like ‘how do I get the NBN connected’, ‘how do I get my phone to work?’ ‘how do I get access because I theoretically have a plan that should give me connectivity, but I don’t have the connectivity’.”

Driving regional tourism

Grampians Grape Escape attracted more than 7500 people to Halls Gap at the weekend.

Attendance was on par with previous years, with the tourism impact felt across the region as operators reported a noticeable uplift in trade during the weekend.

Across the festival grounds, more than 100 wineries, food producers and artisan businesses poured, plated and showcased the best of the Grampians region.

Accommodation bookings increased 10 per cent year-onyear, with local spending also rising by 12 per cent compared to the same period last year.

Festival director Kate Kirkpatrick said one of the biggest shifts was the rise in multi-

day visitation, with three-day ticket sales up almost 20 per cent year-on-year as visitors chose to experience the festival across the entire three days.

Ms Kirkpatrick said there was a noticeable shift toward all-inclusive premium packages, with more visitors opting for the full experience over single-day passes.

She said accommodation across Halls Gap and the wider region sat at or was near capacity across the weekend, delivering an economic boost and reinforcing strong demand for regional events.

Eighty-five cent of attendees travelled from outside the Grampians region to attend the festival, which contin-

ues to cement its place as a must-visit event on Australia’s culinary calendar.

“What a fantastic weekend. To see so many people travelling to our region and embracing everything the Grampians has to offer is incredibly special,” Ms Kirkpatrick said.

“The support for our winemakers, producers and local businesses has been phenomenal, and it’s a powerful reminder of the role events like this play in driving regional tourism. We’re already looking ahead to 2027.”

Grampians Grape Escape will return from April 30 to May 2, 2027 with early access to tickets available via the festival website later this year.

• More pictures, page 20

HERE’S CHEERS: Cassie Clark, Hillary Mitchell, Amanda Hemley and Kim McCall toast a successful outing at Grampians Grape Escape. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

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Mum’s the word, forever and always

Mother: The female parent of a human being; a woman or girl in relation to a child or children to whom she has given birth … a woman who undertakes the responsibilities of a parent towards a child, esp. a stepmother, according to the Oxford Dictionary.

Mum, mummy, mom, ma, mama, mammy, mater. And these are just the English words often used when referring to a mother.

A mother can come in many forms. It can be defined biologically through childbirth, via adoption, or as a female figure who provides care, protection, and nurturing to a child.

But being a mum is so much more than just someone who gives birth – in fact the legal term may also include a woman who is pregnant.

Mums can come in all shapes, sizes and forms.

There’s no perfect way to be a mother – they could be a stay-at-home mum, a working mum, an active mum, an organiser mum, a helicopter mum, a free-range mum, a hot-mess mum, an active-wear mum, an Instagram mum, or a DYI mum.

And they can be more than one of these at a time, or at different stages of their mum life.

Blessed with one of the best mums, I didn’t realise how great my mum was until I became a mother myself.

A classic-style community concert featuring tenor singers David Chun and Reverend Kevin Kim with renowned pianist Songlim Shin is set to regale audiences on Mother’s Day, this Sunday. At Horsham Uniting Church, Reverend Jacob Yang said the afternoon concert was part of a wider tour, which takes in Wodonga, Sydney and Melbourne.

“My friend, minister Hui-Young, asked if it was okay for them to come here – he came here when I was inducted here and he liked our church,” he said.

“He felt ours was a very welcoming church, he was really impressed, and wanted to visit again.”

The Korean performers have graced many stages: freelancer Shin has performed with distinguished ensembles including Yonsei University’s ‘Euphonia’ the Seoul National University Orchestra, and the SNU Symphony Orchestra under renowned conductors.

Chun’s career spans the concert halls of Korea and the opera stages of Australia. A member of

EDITORIAL

By Lauren Henry

A mother from a young age, my mum seemed to have a calling for it. By the time I came into this world –her fourth baby – she seemed to have mum life down pat.

A nurturer, a protector, a teacher, a coach, a taxi-driver, a disciplinarian, a seamstress, a first-aider, a chef and a cook, my mum loved unconditionally – and still does – all her children and now grandchildren.

But, as many would know, grown-

World-class performers to entertain

Opera Australia, he has appeared on more than 650 concert stages.

Kim holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Washington DC’s Wesley Theological Seminary. His doctoral work ‘You Are What You Sing’ gave theological expression to a lifelong conviction: that the church is, and must always be, a community of singing – of both praise and lament.

From 2pm to 4pm, people can enter from the church’s main front door.

Tickets are $25 per person or $20 per person for two or more people. People 15 years and younger can enter free of charge.

Tickets include light refreshments and are available from the church before or on the day.

Reverend Yang said the concert was a good opportunity for people to enjoy some professional music.

“It is also a good opportunity for us to celebrate and enjoy Mother’s Day, and have all the family together,” he said.

"I

adult children do not always become the same type of mothers or fathers as their own parents.

My first time as a mum was when I became a full-time stepmum in my late 20s.

It was an instant change to my life, and required skills I had never tapped into before – and balancing a career on the climb meant it was a juggling act.

But boy, was it a lot of fun to have a six-year-old girl come into my life and become my new little best mate.

And 17 years later, I’m still her first port of call in times of need.

However, since giving birth to a daughter nine years ago, my mumstyle differs again.

With some experience, a different

Heartfelt thanks

For more than a century, Australians have gathered on April 25 to remember the courage and sacrifice shown at Gallipoli.

The lone bugle, the eternal flame, the quiet pause for reflection – these moments have shaped generations.

I want to offer my heartfelt thanks to the volunteers, veterans and local organisers who once again brought Anzac Day to life across the Ripon electorate.

More than 30 services were held across our region this year, and it was deeply moving to see thousands come together at dawn, in marches, and at community gatherings to honour those who served.

These commemorations endure because of the dedication of RSL members, schools, emergency service volunteers, and community groups who give so generously of their time. Their commitment ensures the stories of brav-

perspective and being at a later stage in my life has made it a little easier, but it still comes with its challenges and testing times.

A chat with a friend last week about our children led to the subject of choosing schools, and how there was so much to consider. She replied: “Parenting. No one ever tells you about this part.”

No, it doesn’t come with a handbook – although there is plenty of advice out there whether it be through books, online or other people – but the chat highlighted just how important it is to have the support of fellow mums. No matter what type of mum you are, or aren’t, let’s celebrate all mums this Sunday on Mother’s Day.

ery and service continue to be passed on. Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s events so meaningful. And to all veterans and current service personnel – we are grateful for your service and sacrifice.

Lest we forget.

Martha Haylett State Member for Ripon

welcomes your letters and contributions

Please limit them to 250 words and address them to the editor at: LHenry@aceradio.com.au or mail to: The Weekly Advertiser, Letter to the editor, PO Box 606, Horsham 3402.

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HOSTS: From left, Sally Mewett, Reverend Jacob Yang and Jenny Tippet look forward to hosting a concert at St Andrew’s Uniting in Horsham. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Report tells story from local view

WestWimmera Action Group has called for improvements to fire preparedness, communications and recognition of local responders following the Grass Flat fire in January.

WWAG has released the Grass Flat, Natimuk, Quantong Fire Report, a locally compiled snapshot of the impacts of the fast-moving fire, which started at Grass Flat on January 9, and affected residents, businesses and farms across the Natimuk and Quantong districts.

Based on survey responses from 37 community members, the report documents the scale of volunteer-effort, property and infrastructure impacts, and the ongoing mental and social toll on the region.

WWAG secretary Jennifer Goldsworthy said the report also compiled community feedback on opportunities to strengthen future fire readiness, including improved fuel-load management on public land and along roadsides, and more reliable communications.

The report also details the need for better back-up systems, better access to refill water points, clearer co-ordination across agencies, and greater recognition of the contribution made by volunteers and local private firefighting units.

“This booklet tells the story from a local point of view, focusing on the impact the fire had on the local residents, the Natimuk and Quantong townships and the social fabric and mental health in this region” she said.

“It highlights not only the extraordinary local contribution to firefighting and recovery, but also practical steps that could improve preparedness and reduce harm when catastrophic conditions occur again.”

A similar report was published about the Little Desert Fire in 2025, and both are available in digital form – people can email wwag2025@ gmail.com for a copy.

Ms Goldsworthy said the booklets were instrumental in WWAG securing regular meetings with CFA, DEECA and FFMV as well as getting a seat at the table during the bushfire inquiry at Quantong on April 22.

A copy of the Grass Flat, Natimuk, Quantong fire booklet was presented to shadow minister for public land management Melina Bath, one of the committee members at the inquiry.

Ms Goldsworthy said WWAG was available to discuss the findings with community members, emergency management stakeholders and decision-makers.

Intersection upgrades win approval

Two intersections in the Wimmera will undergo upgrades after their inclusion in the State Government 2026-27 Budget.

Funding has been allocated for the intersection of Western Highway and Jackmans Road, at Dadswells Bridge; and the intersection of Murtoa-Glenorchy Road and Horsham-Lubeck Road, at Lubeck.

The Dadswells Bridge crossroad is noted to be ‘a high-priority intersection improvement project’, addressing safety and operational risks for heavy vehicles, and will seek co-funding from the Federal Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.

The current conditions, including a lack of turning lanes and high competing movements with the Western Highway, create a high-crash risk from vehicles stopped while waiting to turn, increasing rear-end collisions and risky behaviour.

Upgrades will include swept path accommodation, staggered side roads and shoulder works, which will improve turning safety, support escalating freight demand, and maintain transport efficiency.

The Lubeck intersection upgrade project is also

‘a high-priority project to address significant safety risks’ after being identified as a dangerous and non-standard configuration.

The intersection has recorded multiple crashes, including one fatality, due to its acute approach angle and limited sight distance.

However the funding allocation for the Lubeck project only supports planning and design, not actual works.

Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora last week welcomed the government’s investment.

“Local families know the dangerous intersections and how critical improving safety is for reducing crash incidents and saving lives,” she said.

“Labor is getting on with the job – upgrading local roads and making it easier and safer for our community to get around.”

The Victorian Budget 2026-27 has allocated $102.6-million for vital road projects across the state that aim to boost reliability and safety, and cut congestion.

Of the money allocated, $73.4-million is to develop projects, tackle congestion and improve safety in regional Victoria.

OFFICIAL: Martin Colbert, left, and John Bennett present the Grass Flat, Natimuk, Quantong Fire Report booklet to shadow minister for public land management Melina Bath.

Ararat steps up advocacy efforts

Ararat Rural City Council has committed to ramping up its advocacy efforts around a series of priority projects ahead of this year’s state election.

The council will focus on securing money and policy support for the projects, which it expects to create new jobs, support industry and deliver community infrastructure across the municipality.

Top of the priority list is a new indoor multisports facility for Ararat, which is planned to feature three basketball courts, gymnastics facilities, a squash court, female-friendly change rooms and a first aid room.

The council is seeking $12-million in external funding support for the project.

The council is also seeking $15-million to redevelop the A and J McDonald Centre in partnership with Grampians Community Health, transforming an underused building into a contemporary community facility with modern infrastructure and full disability access.

Local roads and regional infrastructure are also a focus, with the council advocating for $1.5-million to seal urban gravel roads and laneways in Ararat, as well as $34-million to complete a Mininera extension of the East Grampians Rural Water Pipeline.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the project would support rural communities, agricultural production and climate resilience.

The council is also seeking $2-million for a gas-grid connection that would enable company Valorify to deliver biogas through existing

“We have done the work to identify the projects that will create jobs, support local industry, and improve everyday life in Ararat Rural City, and we are now taking that case to ministers, departments, and decision makers”

– Tim Harrison

infrastructure, along with $5-million for studies and preliminary works for a north-south heavy-vehicle route to remove large trucks from the Ararat CBD.

Dr Harrison said the council’s advocacy work focused on outcomes that would benefit local people and businesses.

“Advocacy is about making sure the needs of our community are clearly on the table when governments decide where they invest,” he said.

“We have done the work to identify the projects that will create jobs, support local industry, and improve everyday life in Ararat Rural City, and we are now taking that case to ministers, departments, and decision makers.

“Our message is straightforward: if you back these projects, you are backing a stronger regional economy, better services, and fair opportunities for the people who live, work and invest here.”

Residents can read a copy of the council’s 2026 advocacy priorities via www.ararat.vic. gov.au/advocacy or request a physical copy from the council’s customer service.

women and children fleeing family violence. Pictured are organisers, from left, Katherine Colbert, Emma Beer and Angela Stewart.

Event a win for community

A social get-together for women in the Wimmera is having a lasting impact on the community.

Three friends joined forces earlier this year to organise an event in Nhill called Bubbles and Beats, providing a social outlet for women while also raising funds for a good cause.

They have now donated more than $5600 to Grampians Community Health to provide supplies at the Grampians Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect Centre in Nhill to support women and children fleeing family violence.

The friends, Emma Beer, Angela Stewart and Kathrine Colbert, all from Nhill, hope to run Bubbles and Beats again next year after the huge success of their inaugural event.

About 180 women attended the event at the Nhill Community Centre in February – almost double initial expectations – and a raffle was another fundraising success.

Ms Beer said they aimed to create a fun night out for women to connect, have a good time and to champion a charity that supports women. She said the idea originated from friends talking about the need for a local event specifically for women.

Have you ever stopped to think what living in your home might feel like twenty years from now?

It’s not something we often talk about, but perhaps we should.

Here in the Wimmera Mallee, Preston Builders are used to thinking ahead. We plan for the seasons, make practical decisions and build for the long term. Yet when it comes to our homes, many people still build only for today.

The reality is a home that works beautifully now may not always work as life changes.

The front step, the bathroom layout, narrow spaces or long walks through the home can seem minor today, but over time they can make living less comfortable than it needs to be.

That’s where thoughtful design matters.

At Preston Builders, we believe a home should do more than look good today, it should support you well into the future.

That can be as simple as practical layouts, level entry showers, wider spaces where they matter, and designs that make everyday living easier, without compromising warmth or style.

It isn’t about building for

“We’re just three friends who wanted to organise an event with live music, food and drinks,” she said.

“Everyone danced and talked and laughed and had a really good time. All the feedback has been really positive.

“A lot of people came from Nhill, but there were buses from Horsham and Dimboola, with people also attending from surrounding towns. It was about social connection and empowering women to have a good time.”

Ms Beer said while hosting the event next year was not confirmed, it was a possibility.

“It was the first time we’d held something like that and we were aiming to sell 100 tickets, but it nearly doubled our expectations,” she said.

Grampians Community Health community services general manager Faith Hardman said GCH was incredibly grateful for the generous donation.

“The money will be used to ensure we have essential supplies in the Nhill office for children and mothers fleeing violence and some toys for the office for when women need to visit with children for appointments,” she said.

limitation; it’s about building for independence. Too often, conventional homes are designed around standard plans, rather than how people want to live in the years ahead.

We think there’s a better way.

A well-designed home can help you stay comfortable, remain independent, and live in the community you love for longer.

That’s why we’re passionate about building homes designed for life’s next chapter.

What are most builder’s extras are our standards such as level entry, wider doorways, wider hallways, to name a few. Just as importantly, we believe the building experience should feel supported from the very beginning.

As a regional builder, we understand what local people value. Honesty, practical advice, quality workmanship and personal service.

Around here, listening still matters and a handshake still means something. That’s how we approach every home we build, because the home you build today should still feel right in twenty years’ time.

SUCCESS: A Bubbles and Beats night at Nhill not only opened doors for a celebration of women, but raised money to support

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Climate-smart partnership

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

In a move to promote cli-

mate-smart agriculture, carbon emissions from barley used in Australian beers will be tracked in a new partnership between a top university and Victorian farmers.

Climate scientists from Charles Sturt University’s Cool Soil Initiative are working with nine farmers from the Wimmera whose barley is used to brew Asahi Beverages’ iconic beers including Carlton Draught and Victoria Bitter.

To analyse carbon output, scientists collect the soil and growing data from each farm – including fertiliser use and field operations.

The scientists then conduct a thorough analysis before providing participating farmers with a unique report that breaks down their emissions across a range of farm activities.

Asahi Beverages’ regional category head Dave Engel said the first year of the partnership yielded significant data on the use of fertilisers and herbicides, advanced technology that minimises soil compaction, as well as growing practices that help to protect the health of soils and reduce the amount of carbon-intensive interventions.

“The results have been extremely encouraging for all parties and highlight what we already believe to be the case – that Australian grain growers are already operating at the leading edge of sustainable growing practices,” he said.

“All of these factors result in better commercial outcomes for the grower as well as reduced emissions.

“Barley is the heart and soul of beer because it defines its taste and colour and we buy around 75,000 tonnes of it nationally.

“We’ve got dozens of terrific barley farmers around Australia supplying Asahi, but until now the support and know-how were not in place for them to understand and report on their emissions from growing barley.

“The Cool Soil Initiative helps farmers understand the emissions of individual farm activities and processes, compares them to others within their growing region and enables them to take focused action to reduce their emissions footprint.”

Charles Sturt University Cool Soil Initiative and Sustainability director

Matthew Muller said farmers were already doing the hard work of producing high-quality barley.

“Farmers’ critical roles in the supply chain means they are uniquely placed to help Asahi track barley emissions as we work towards a lower emissions future,” he said.

“Our role at Cool Soil Initiative is to provide scientific measurement and benchmarking that makes emissions reporting insightful, not burdensome.

“A certified and tailored report for each paddock will provide growers genuine evidence to access markets, evaluate productivity and identify opportunities that optimise soil health, yield and support climate-smart agriculture.”

Kewell barley farmer Justin Ruwoldt said the Cool Soil program was good business management and would help future-proof farms.

“We want to run the best possible business practice so that we not only

survive the test of time, but prosper,” he said.

“The program gives us a seat at the table and a better understanding of emissions reporting.”

In 2020, Asahi launched the Victoria Barley Program to partner with dozens of Victorian farmers.

These farmers’ barley is now used to brew about 300 million litres of beer annually at Abbotsford Brewery.

Under the old model, farmers sold barley grain to bulk handlers who stored it all together, meaning grains from potentially hundreds of different farmers were mixed before they reached Abbotsford.

But the partnership has created a direct relationship between brewers and farmers, providing clear oversight of the growing process to ensure only the best and most consistent barley is used in the beers.

The Victorian Barley Program is delivered by Riordan; managing director Jim Riordan said the program was a win for Victorian farmers and beer lovers alike.

“For several years, the Victorian Barley Program has given farmers the confidence and financial security to invest in new technology and make improvements in farming sustainability and efficiency,” he said.

“But the Cool Soil Initiative announced by Asahi and Riordan takes the program to the next level by giving them scientifically-backed support to understand their emissions and promote climate-smart agriculture practices taking place right here in Australia.

“This has the potential to sure up and open up markets where sustainable practices are central to market access.’’

Sustainability awards open

Nominations for outstanding councils, communities, organisations, and individuals in the annual Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria Tidy Towns sustainability awards are open. In the competition’s 44 years, it has celebrated thousands of people, projects and programs involving litter, waste, indigenous heritage, education, community, environment, energy, heritage and culture, wellbeing and individual achievement. These projects empower people, change behaviour, protect the environment, reduce waste, engage youth and indigenous communities, and promote community spirit and resiliency across Victoria.

The awards night will be in Melbourne on September 30, with tickets available at humanitix. People can visit www.kabvic.org.au/sustain abilityawards for more details.

Musical escape

Ararat-region residents can enjoy a free midweek musical escape today at Ararat Town Hall as entertainer Glenn Starr performs his show Hit Parade.

Staged as part of Ararat Rural City Council’s free lunchtime performance series, today’s show will begin at 11am, giving community members an opportunity to enjoy well-known songs performed live. Recreating sounds and songs from a golden age of music, Glenn Starr’s Hit Parade promises to bring the magic and melodies of the 1950s and ’60s into the spotlight.

Glenn Starr’s Hit Parade is free to attend, but bookings are essential via ararattownhall.com.au.

PLANNING: Kewell barley farmer Justin Ruwoldt and Asahi Beverages’ regional category head Dave Engel.

Calling time on paramedic career

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Grampians region retiring paramedic

Ian Jones feels as though he has not worked a day of his five-decade career with Ambulance Victoria, he has enjoyed it so much.

Starting work at the age of 17 in 1976, Mr Jones joined Victoria’s last group of ambulance cadets, completing a three-year program comprised of on-the-job training, education at the Ambulance Officers Training Centre and hospital placements.

Not yet licensed to drive, he was forced into the back of the ambulance, monitoring patients enroute to hospital while his supervisor drove the vehicle.

“It was very confronting – at the age of 17 I was delivering babies and attending car crashes and all sorts of other ambulance cases,” Mr Jones said.

“I was thrown in the deep end and I saw the world through a very unfiltered lens, while other people my age were still going to school.”

Mr Jones’ family moved to Australia from Wales when he was 15 and through two years of high school, he became interested in a career in emergency services.

Despite his young age, he committed wholeheartedly to a life in ambulance, leaving his family and friends behind in Melbourne and finding his own transport and accommodation to start his cadetship in the Geelong and District Ambulance Service.

“I was drawn to helping people and the excitement of going to work and knowing you’d be making a difference to the community,” Mr Jones said.

In the years that followed, he completed his cadetship and landed a job as a qualified ambulance officer in Werribee. He transferred to several branches across metropolitan Melbourne and spent a few years as an ambulance officer in Mackay, Queensland.

In the late 1990s, Mr Jones returned to Victo-

ria, taking up a position at the then-on-call ambulance branch in Stawell, and has spent the rest of his career working in the Grampians region.

“When I arrived in Stawell we worked as single-responders and it was quite challenging, being dispatched to cases with no back-up nearby,” Mr Jones said.

“We’d get police or SES members to drive the ambulance if we needed to treat the patients.

“When ambulance community officers were introduced, it made a big difference, and now the branch has grown to have about 20 paramedics.”

Mr Jones has witnessed many changes across Victoria’s ambulance service through the decades, one of the most memorable being the introduction of trolley stretchers – revolutionising manual-handling requirements for paramedics.

“The country ambulances used to have four beds in the back, and you’d load two patients ‘upstairs’ and two patients ‘downstairs’ as we called it,” he said.

“The manual handling was disastrous – it was so physically demanding. There would be two of us lifting the stretcher into the vehicle and then sometimes up onto a top bunk.

“When they introduced the drop-wheel ambulance stretchers, that was just fantastic – it made the work so much easier on our bodies.”

Mr Jones officially celebrated 50 years in Victoria’s ambulance service in January and will retire in July.

As he prepares to formally farewell his career, he said it is the camaraderie he would miss most.

“Once you put the uniform on, you become part of a fellowship of likeminded people who are all there to do the same thing – to look after your communities and make a difference,” he said.

“The people I’ve worked with have been fantastic and I’ve made lifelong friends.

“Sometimes I look back and think I’ve never really worked a day in my life because it has been such an enjoyable job. I’m very proud of my time with Ambulance Victoria.”

Disruptions to V-Line services

There will be disruptions to V-Line train services on sections of the Ararat and Ballarat lines over the next month, for works on the Murray Basin Rail Project.

Replacement coaches will be a mix of express and stopping-all-stations services, and coaches will depart some stations earlier than the usual train times.

Temporary timetables are available from Transport Victoria and V-Line websites.

Impacts on the Ballarat and Ararat lines include coaches replacing trains between Southern Cross, Ballarat and Ararat on Sunday; and

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between Bacchus Marsh, Ballarat and Ararat from May 11 to 13. During this time, crews will work on upgrades to the freight network that connects to the Ballarat, Ararat and Maryborough lines, as part of final works to complete the Murray Basin Rail Project.

The works include the installation, testing and commissioning of new signalling systems, in addition to track and civil works, and driver training to prepare the upgraded network for operation.

People can find more information at transport. vic.gov.au.

PROUD: Paramedic Ian Jones, pictured with his wife Anne, celebrated 50 years in Victoria’s ambulance service in January and will retire in July.

Grape escape

GRAMPIANS FUN: Thousands of people descended on Halls Gap at the weekend for one of Australia’s longest-running food and wine festivals – Grampians Grape Escape. The threeday festival showcased local and regional winemakers, producers, distillers, brewers and artisans, with added entertainment including special guests hosting masterclasses and activities for all ages. Pictured enjoying the event on Saturday are, clockwise from above: Christine Azzopardi, Matt Newton and Maddie McQuade; Yasemin Yildirim and Lachlan Herschell try some Beetanicals honey with Tanya Stanley; Niki Di Pietro, Kylie McClelland, Justine Severin, Fiona Wright, Dione McGarry and Jo Simpson; Tom Waters making pizza; Michelle Freeman with her children Asher and Jarrah Coster; and Tasmanian chef Analiese Gregory.

Call for responsible cat ownership

Ararat Rural City Council is celebrating a successful cat-adoption day and is encouraging new owners to practice responsibility amid rising cat-ownership rates in the municipality.

The adoption day at Ararat Pound and Shelter last month saw 10 cats and kittens find new homes in the region.

The event also provided a chance for residents to update registrations and have their pets’ microchips checked.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison called on both new and long-time cat owners to play a part in managing rising cat numbers in the region, with the pound and shelter operating above

capacity for the past three months.

He said council officers were seeing record numbers of surrendered cats, as well as those handed in as strays or trapped as feral animals across the municipality.

“Cats are wonderful companions, but unmanaged populations create real problems for our community, our staff, and our local environment,” he said.

“We are peri-urban to significant natural areas and national parks, so if we do not get on top of cat numbers now, we will see more pressure on wildlife, more disease and more cats coming through an already stretched pound system.”

Dr Harrison said cats were effective hunters that, if allowed to roam, would prey on small native birds, reptiles and mammals, even if they were well fed at home.

National research estimates feral cats kill about two billion reptiles, birds, frogs and mammals each year, with pet cats responsible for hundreds of millions more annually.

Dr Harrison said in peri-urban areas like Ararat, roaming pet, semi-owned and unowned cats could move between homes, farms and bushland, compounding their impact on local biodiversity.

“Registering, vaccinating, desexing

MOVING FORWARD: Wimmera Peer Parkinson’s Support Group’s annual event A Walk in the Park at Horsham last month raised $1900 for Fight Parkinson’s to support people and research. Member Shona Cross, right, sends walkers off on the ‘leisurely’ 1.5-kilometre walk, which was followed by a sausage sizzle.

and microchipping your cat is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support the health of your pet and reduce pressure on our pound,” he said.

Mayor Bob Sanders said the cat-adoption day encouraged responsible ownership.

He said dozens of people visited the shelter throughout the day.

“Events like this really show what our community is all about,” he said.

“People took the time to come out, meet the cats, ask questions, and make thoughtful decisions about giving these animals a second chance in a safe, loving home. Our staff did a terrific job,

and I want to thank every person who came through the gates, whether they adopted, checked a microchip, or just came for a pat and a chat.”

Cr Sanders said a few cats were still available for adoption through the council, with prospective adopters able to visit www.petrescue. com.au/groups/11302/Ararat-Rural-City-Council or call the council’s community-safety team on 5355 0200 for more information.

Owners and residents seeking more information about responsible cat ownership, trap hire, or adoption opportunities can call the community-safety team or visit www.ararat.vic.gov.au.

Stitchers add laneway colour

A new outdoor exhibition in Ararat’s Barkly Street Laneway showcases the skill and creativity of the Ararat Embroiderers Guild.

The exhibition, which opened on Friday, invites residents and visitors to take a closer look at intricate work being created in the local community.

Ararat Embroiderers Guild is a small group of crafters who meet at Ararat Harness Racing Club on Blake Street from 10am to 3pm on the first and third Saturday and the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.

Guild members work on projects, share ideas and learn from one another, with their work covering a range of techniques including cross stitch, canvas work, sashiko, appliqué, patchwork, knitting and crochet.

play reflecting both traditional craft methods and contemporary designs.

Cr Sanders said the exhibition was a testament to the time, care and dedication residents invested in their creative pursuits.

“On behalf of council, I want to thank the Ararat Embroiderers Guild for bringing their work into the heart of our town,” he said.

The council is presenting the exhibition in partnership with Ararat Gallery TAMA as part of an ongoing program to activate the Barkly Street Laneway, between Lyle Eales Stores and The Reject Shop on Barkly Street, with art and community projects.

The group meets each month for alternating formal and social meets. People can call Ms Cross on 0402 863 360 for more information.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Ararat Rural City Mayor Bob Sanders said the Barkly Street Laneway exhibition would highlight the group’s diversity, with pieces on dis-

Residents interested in learning more about the exhibition or sharing their embroidery and textile skills can contact the Ararat Embroiderers Guild via Facebook or by emailing ararat@embroiderersguildvic.org.

the

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

Fit the numbers 1-6 once into every hexagon so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers are the same. No number is repeated in any single hexagon.

Media companies welcome proposal

BY LAUREN HENRY

Regional news publishers have welcomed the release of the Federal Government’s draft News Bargaining Incentive legislation, urging all Members of Parliament to support it.

Country Press Australia, CPA, representing more than 240 regional and community news publications and their digital news services across Australia, welcomed the proposed legislation as an important step toward restoring fairness between news publishers and major global digital platforms, such as Google, Meta and TikTok.

The News Bargaining Incentive will require large digital platforms to pay a charge unless they have reached commercial agreements that fairly compensate eligible Australian news organisations.

CPA president Damian Morgan acknowledged the government’s constructive engagement with the regional news sector through the policy development process.

“This is fundamentally about fairness, but it is also about truth, facts and the future of informed communities,” he said.

“Professional journalism costs money to produce. Large digital platforms derive value from that journalism, but they do not employ the local reporters, editors and photographers who create it.

“The News Bargaining Incentive is designed to encourage fair commercial agreements so Australian journalism can remain sustainable.”

The proposed legislation builds on the News Media Bargaining Code introduced by the former Coalition government, which established the important principle that global technology platforms should contribute to the cost of the news content from which they benefit.

The government’s leadership has been bipartisan, and CPA is calling for the same spirit of cross-party support to continue.

“Every community deserves access to reliable, professionally produced information,” Mr Morgan said.

“Every community deserves journalists who are prepared to ask questions, check facts, attend meetings, report decisions and give local people a voice.”

CPA acknowledged the contribution technology companies have made to modern life, including connectivity, commerce, search, social connection and access to information.

It also recognised that Google has continued to engage constructively with Australian news publishers and has shown that commercial agree-

Shopfront grants

West Wimmera businesses can access funding to invest in their shopfronts in a refreshed grant program delivered by West Wimmera Shire Council. Amendments were made to the former business streetscape grant, now the shopfront improvement grant program, to reflect how businesses use funding and with a stronger focus on improving the presentation, accessibility and functionality of the shire’s street-facing shopfronts.

Mayor Tim Meyer said the changes would simplify the application process while delivering stronger outcomes for both businesses and local town centres.

“Local businesses play a vital role in the character and vibrancy of our communities,” he said.

“These updates make it easier for businesses to apply for support, while giving council the flexibility to fund projects that deliver real visual and economic impact.”

The previous tiered application system has been removed in favour of a single, streamlined process, making it clearer and more accessible to applicants.

The revised program also introduces a $2 to $1 co-contribution model, ensuring businesses maintain a meaningful investment in their own improvements while still receiving financial support from council.

Eligible businesses can apply for grants of up to $5000 to support improvements such as painting, lighting, accessibility upgrades and façade enhancements.

Council has allocated $20,000 annually to the program, with applications open until the funding is exhausted.

ments between global technology companies and Australian media businesses are possible.

Accept responsibility

Mr Morgan said engagement with Australian news outlets should not just fall on Google’s responsibility.

“All major digital platforms that derive value from Australian journalism must accept their responsibility,” he said.

“No company should be able to benefit from the credibility, relevance and public value of professional news while avoiding a fair contribution to the cost of producing it.”

Mr Morgan said it was important the final legislation encouraged genuine commercial deals and did not create an incentive for platforms to reduce, remove or downgrade access to Australian news.

“Reliable news must remain visible and accessible to Australians,” he said. “The answer

cannot be for platforms to avoid responsibility by making trusted news harder to find. At a time of rising misinformation, Australians need more access to facts, not less.”

Mr Morgan said the issue was especially important for regional and rural Australia, where news media was often the only professional source of verified local information.

“Regional Australians must not be treated as an afterthought,” Mr Morgan said.

“Our members are often the only professional news media voice in their communities. They are the ones making sure regional people are seen, heard and understood.”

CPA members, including The Weekly Advertiser, form the largest regional digital news publishing network in Australia.

They reach millions of Australians across digital and print each day, and publish more than 1000 news stories online every day, produced by local journalists who live in, understand and

are accountable to the communities they serve.

Country Press Australia members cover councils, courts, emergency services, schools, sport, agriculture, local business, community groups and the decisions that affect people’s everyday lives.

Mr Morgan said in many communities, if journalists did not record, question, explain and publish on local issues, often no one else was there to do so.

“Without local news media, communities lose more than a publication or a website. They lose a trusted public record. They lose scrutiny of local decision making. They lose a place where facts are checked, rumours are challenged and local stories are told with care and accountability,” he said.

CPA urged Parliament to pass legislation that delivers fair, practical and lasting outcomes for eligible Australian news publishers of all sizes.

‘Million cents’ cash prizes

Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme is giving people a chance to turn their recycling into cash through the Win A Million Cents competition, which returns for a second year.

The competition, from May 4 to June 14, offers five chances to win $10,000 cash – or ‘one million cents’ – simply by returning eligible drink containers through the scheme.

Like last year, one of the five lucky winners will win a bonus $10,000 to donate to a registered Victoria Container Deposit Scheme, CDS Vic, charity, school, or community group of their choice.

The competition rewards Victorians with one entry for every 50 eligible containers they return in a single transaction, whether they keep the refund or donate it to a CDS Vic charity partner.

Last year’s winners returned containers in Geelong, Gippsland, Wodonga and Melbourne suburbs of Bayswater and Macleod, with the donation prize awarded to Our Haven Wildlife Shelter in Gippsland.

When Our Haven’s Theresa Matthews received a phone call letting her know she had won $10,000, she was moved to tears.

“It really meant the world to us because there’s lots of animals out there that need help, and it’s not always easy,” she said.

“We have 25 joeys on bottles –it’s like having 25 babies.”

Chief executive of scheme co-or-

dinator VicReturn, Matt Davis, said the Win A Million Cents competition rewarded Victorians for recycling while helping ease costof-living pressures.

“Victorians are embracing CDS Vic not only to build a more sustainable future, but because it puts money back in their pockets. Those 10-cent refunds can quickly add up,” he said.

“At a time when households are looking for ways to stretch their budgets, the Win A Million Cents

competition is a great incentive for even more people to get involved in CDS Vic.

“This competition takes that a step further, with five chances to take home $10,000.

“With cost-of-living pressures at front of mind for a lot of Victorians, the prize money could make a real difference.

“Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme is transforming the way we recycle, keeping billions of containers out of landfill while

supporting families with everyday expenses like groceries and bills.”

To date, more than three-billion containers have been returned through CDS Vic, putting more than $300-million back into pockets of Victorians.

The competition is open to Victorian residents only.

Entry details, terms and conditions, and entry forms are available at winamillioncents.com.au.

People can find their nearest CDS Vic refund point at cdsvic.org.au.

Blister pack recycling tick

More than 309 kilograms of used plastic blister packs have avoided landfill since the launch of Ararat Rural City Council’s Pharmacycle program in 2022.

The result means more than 206,000 blister packs have instead been recycled through local drop-off points and participating pharmacies, helping to build a circular economy in the region.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said in the current financial year alone, the council’s collection partners had diverted 245 kilograms – or more than 160,000 blister packs – from landfill, demonstrating strong community support for sustainable recycling solutions.

Dr Harrison said the results showed what the community could achieve by embracing small, practical changes.

“Every blister pack that’s recycled instead of sent to landfill helps reduce waste and supports a more sustainable future for our region,” he said.

“It’s encouraging to see local residents and businesses working together to make a measurable difference, and programs like Pharmacycle make that action simple, local and effective.”

Ararat’s participating pharmacy, Blooms The Chemist Ararat, provides a free local drop-off point for residents to recycle their empty medicine packaging.

There is also a drop off point at the council’s customer service centre.

Dr Harrison said Earth Day on April 22 highlighted the importance of environmental responsibility, with the council encouraging more residents to get involved by dropping off their used blister packs for recycling this year.

“These results are something we can all take pride in,” he said.

“As a community, Ararat is showing that small collective actions really do add up to significant environmental outcomes.”

Residents can find more information about the Pharmacycle program at www.pharmacycle. com.au.

MASSIVE

Kalora

Kalora

MAKE IT COUNT: From May 4 to June 14, Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme is giving people five chances to win $10,000 cash – or ‘one million cents’ – simply by returning eligible drink containers through the scheme.

Support for textile hubs

Ararat Rural City’s textile-recycling program has seen residents drop off unwanted clothing at above-national-average rates, with thousands of items diverted from landfill.

Since it was introduced in May last year, the council’s clothing-resource recovery program has lifted the municipality’s capture rate for unwanted clothing and household textiles to 16.5 per cent, compared to an estimated national average of about 12 per cent.

The council delivers the initiative in partnership with Recycle Care Australia, a national organisation specialising in textile recovery, reuse and recycling in collaboration with councils, charities and industry.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said Ararat clothing-resource recovery hubs had captured 11,850 kilograms of post-consumer textiles, diverting an estimated 45,505 individual items from landfill.

Dr Harrison welcomed the early results and said the program had prevented about 18 tonnes of carbon emissions, equivalent to removing about four petrol cars from the road.

“Our community has shown, time and again, that when you

give people clear information and convenient options, they will back in new ideas and make them work,” he said.

“Lifting textile capture above the national average in the first year of this program is a strong result for a small regional municipality, and it reflects a shared commitment from households, Recycle Care Australia and our local partners to keep useful materials in circulation for longer.

“With more promotion, more drop-off points, and continued community support, I am confident we can push our diversion rate toward the 30 to 40 per cent band that we see in some of the best-performing regions internationally.”

Dr Harrison encouraged residents to continue using clothing-resource recovery hubs for unwanted clothing, paired shoes, linen and other household textiles that were clean and dry.

He said items placed in general-waste bins still ended up in landfill, where they contributed to unnecessary emissions and resource loss, while textiles dropped into the hubs were assessed for reuse, repair or recycling wherever suitable options were available.

Textile drop-off during transfer-station hours is free.

Y-Zetts reunite to mark half century

A group of Stawell women will reunite to celebrate a half-century of work supporting health in the region.

The Y-Zetts formed in 1975 with a goal of providing an alternative fundraising avenue for Stawell Hospital.

Founding member Meg Blake was responsible for the charity’s unique name, and said she was committed to the group from day one.

“Our original idea was to provide an alternative way of raising funds for the hospital, other than what the ladies auxiliary was doing at the time,” she said.

“We were a big group of mates who felt we were too young to join the auxiliary and wanted to try fresh, new ideas for fundraising and get away from the usual cake stalls and raffles.”

Mrs Blake convened a public meeting at her home on May 29, 1975, with the 17 women in attendance agreeing to join the group and call it the Stawell Younger Set.

After being sanctioned by the hospital board, the committee held its inaugural

meeting on July 10, 1975, but Mrs Blake said not all members liked the ‘Younger Set’ name.

“I suggested the name so I got thinking about it one day and abbreviated it down to Y-Zetts, which was way more catchy,” she said.

“Ironically we decided to kick off our fundraising strategies with a cake stall, but we soon got ideas for all sorts of events. We had film nights and fashion parades and we eventually started hosting an annual ball. The first film night was memorable in many ways because it was Planet of the Apes and a lot of people were offended by it.”

The first item the group bought for the hospital was a set of digital baby scales.

“Michael Delahunty was the CEO back in our early days and he was very strident, making sure we only bought equipment the hospital really needed,” Mrs Blake said.

“Over the years we have raised upwards of $1-million and bought all kinds of equipment.”

Mrs Blake was honoured with a life governorship of the hospital in 1976, joining the board of management the following year.

In 1994, she began working at the hospital in a public relations and fundraising role that she continued for 18 years.

Mrs Blake continues her involvement as a current director of the Stawell Hospital Foundation.

“My mother was a nurse at Stawell so I have always had a fascination with its health services,” she said.

The remaining Y-Zetts are planning a 50th-anniversary celebration with a reunion on May 22, followed by a dinner at Trackside Tabaret the following night.

Mrs Blake said she provided nearly 200 names of former Y-Zetts committee members to be invited, but it had been difficult to find contact details for many of them.

Anyone who believes they can help with Y-Zetts contacts can call Mrs Blake on 0417 581 421.

Y-Zetts members at a more recent event, back, from left, Pam West, Helena Nicholson, Janine Sibson and Carolyn McDonald, and front, Lyn Bibby, Di O’Donnell, Meg Blake and Jan West.

Coonara

TaKE a BREaK

On This Day

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: May 4, 2006 –‘Wombat’s Footy Heroes’ author Harvey Lang and footballer Jason McCartney signed copies of the book at Horsham’s Book City for Darcy Hogan, 4, and Jay Hogan, 7. Many people arrived early for the signing and crowded outside the shop. Lang and McCartney also visited schools during the day.

10 years ago: May 4, 2016

A crowd of more than 7000 people gathered for the Grampians Grape Escape food and wine festival, with Kate Ceberano the final musical act on the Sunday. Headline guest, chef Miguel Maestre, demonstrated across both days of the event, alongside ‘edible adventurer’ Alice in Frames. Festival director David Wheaton said organisers were thrilled with the event, their 25th.

Five years ago: May 5, 2021

The developer of a proposed wastewater farm at Quantong revealed the project was part of a broader agricultural vision for the site, which included establishing a large-scale native cut-flower operation. Water Sustainability Farm director and agricultural entrepreneur Peter Blair said evaporation dams were part of a multiuse plan that represented a value-adding expansion to farm-business operations. Then-Horsham Rural City Council Mayor Robyn Gulline said council needed to wait until regulatory assessments were complete before taking a position.

One year ago: May 7, 2025

Kaniva shooter Lisa Hawker qualified in the Australian titles and was eyeing the Down the Line Work Championships in New Zealand in 2026. Hawker’s husband and coach, Wayne, qualified to be an emergency in the New Zealand competition’s veterans’ team. Mrs Hawker had represented Australia in two Down the Line shoots in previous years.

Brought to you by AFTERNOONS WITH HUGHIE Weekdays, noon until 3pm on

yOUR LUCKy sTaRs

FOR THE WEEK MAY 3 TO MAY 9

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 6-1-2-4 Lotto Numbers: 6-12-24-30-40-42

1. Born on this day was which author, who wrote a radio show that in 1938 convinced audiences that an alien invasion was taking place?

2. Gimpo International Airport is nearest to which major city – Manilla, Amsterdam or Seoul?

3. Neneh Cherry and Youssou N’Dour had a hit with which song in the 1990s?

4. The names of almost all episodes of the television series ‘Friends’ start with which two words?

5. Mary Goodnight was a character in which James Bond movie?

6. Who wrote ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin’?

7. Who, in Greek Mythology, fell in love with his image –Achilles, Asclepius or Narcissus?

8. In 1962, Jamaica gained its independence from which country?

9. What colour is The Muppet Show’s Beaker’s hair?

10. What kind of animal is missing from the phrase, “like a … to a flame’?

11. The German ‘das brot’ translates to which food in English?

12. Computer abbreviation ‘KHZ’ usually means what?

13. What does a conchologist collect?

14. Dying on this day in 1952 was which Italian educationist, famous for her method which stressed the importance of practical and independent play in child development and became a major educational movement?

Answers: 1. Orson Welles. 2. Seoul. 3. Seven Seconds. 4. ‘The one’. 5. The Man with the Golden Gun. 6. Harriet Beecher Stowe. 7. Narcissus. 8. United Kingdom. 9. Red. 10. Moth. 11. The bread. 12. KiloHertz. 13. Seashells. 14. Maria Montessori.

Our office is at 2 Stawell Road, Horsham. Mail: PO Box 606, Horsham 3402. Telephone: 5382 1351. Website: www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au Email: weeklyadvertiser@team.aceradio.com.au For classified advertisements: 5382 1351 – email: horsham@aceradio.com.au

Advertising: Mark Sulic: 0407 313 456, marks@team.aceradio.com.au; Lee Meadows: 0407 046 864, leem@team.aceradio.com.au; Kelly Schilling: 0437 894 257, kschilling@aceradio.com.au; Danica Cutter: 0488 473 562, dcutter@aceradio.com.au; Lily Olver: 0411 784 001, lolver@aceradio.com.au; James Davidson: 0439 820 014, jdavidson@aceradio.com.au. Newsroom 5382 1351: Lauren Henry: lhenry@aceradio.com.au; Bronwyn Hastings: bhastings@aceradio.com.au; Colin MacGillivray: cmacgillivray@aceradio.com.au; Georgia Bailey: georgiab@team.aceradio.com.au

A busier-than-usual period is indicated. A financial venture with others could prove profitable, although a third party may attempt to block your path if you allow it. A holiday with loved ones should help reignite the spark in your love life and restore harmony.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Yellow Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 4-7-1-4 Lotto Numbers: 4-8-14-17-40-42

A very eventful time for partnership matters. Even if plans shift unexpectedly, results could turn out better than anticipated. Communication with loved ones improves, strengthening emotional bonds.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1-3-4-1 Lotto Numbers: 1-13-21-30-40-44

Keep a careful track of your social calendar, or you may find yourself overcommitted. Financial caution is essential. Avoid purchasing anything you cannot comfortably afford. Love life may feel hectic, but exciting.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1-3-5-4 Lotto Numbers: 1-13-22-30-31-40

New and exciting friendships are entering your world. Extra income may come through either effort or fortunate circumstances—social invitations increase, keeping you pleasantly occupied.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Gold Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1-3-1-9 Lotto Numbers: 4-13-19-25-40-44

Sudden changes may arise, offering opportunities to step away from recent pressures. A social gathering could grow larger than expected, bringing renewed excitement and fresh connections.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 3-2-4-4 Lotto Numbers: 2-12-24-29-30-39

Unexpected gains or promotions may benefit many. Responsibilities increase, keeping you extremely busy. A past contact may resurface and add an element of excitement to your season.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1-5-6-3 Lotto Numbers: 1-6-15-24-33-42

You may feel more drawn to outdoor activities and experiences. A greater sense of inner peace develops. Romantic interludes are pleasant, and wedding invitations or celebrations are possible.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Grey Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 3-5-4-5 Lotto Numbers: 8-17-26-33-35-40

Social activities may be influenced by long-distance travel. You are likely to spend more time outdoors. Exercise caution with money and possessions to avoid unnecessary risks

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Grey Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2-3-2-9 Lotto Numbers: 11-20-23-29-30-34

Energy levels may feel lower than usual. Any promises made must be honoured, so consider commitments carefully before agreeing to important matters.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Silver Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1-1-3-4 Lotto Numbers: 1-10-13-29-31-39

An exciting social phase begins. While enjoying yourself, remain cooperative with loved ones to prevent unnecessary tension. Balance and diplomacy will keep situations calm.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 2-2-6-5 Lotto Numbers: 2-11-20-26-34-44

Avoid becoming involved in matters that do not concern you. A highly social period is indicated, along with renewed friendships. Luck in games of chance may also feature.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 7-4-1-7 Lotto Numbers: 7-14-17-24-31-40

Some may take a holiday and consider making the location a permanent base or future investment. Friends and loved ones may become more demanding of your time and finances, so set healthy boundaries.

Strategic reset

Embattled

Stellantis is preparing a major strategic reset that will prioritise four key brands –Jeep, Ram, Peugeot and Fiat –while repositioning the rest of its portfolio into more regional roles as it looks to reverse declining market share and counter rising Chinese competition.

According to industry sources, the group will channel the bulk of its investment into the higher-volume, higher-margin marques, with brands such as Citroën, Opel and Alfa Romeo expected to rely more heavily on shared platforms and technology.

The shift comes as Stellantis battles falling sales in key regions and intensifying pressure from Chinese automakers, particularly in Europe and emerging markets.

The company recently booked a $35.9-billion charge as it scaled back

electric vehicle plans amid slowerthan-expected uptake.

Formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group, Stellantis has traditionally maintained a broad multi-brand strategy, but under chief executive Antonio Filosa, the focus is turning toward a more disciplined allocation of capital.

Mr Filosa is understood to favour ‘strategic deployment’ over outright closures, using certain brands in specific regions where they retain strong recognition, rather than eliminating them entirely.

Within that strategy, Peugeot is emerging as a central pillar – and is now accelerating its own global expansion plans, including a potential shift in manufacturing strategy that could have implications for Australia.

At the recent Auto China 2026 show in Beijing, Peugeot confirmed plans to build vehicles in China for both do-

mestic consumption and export markets, leveraging its joint venture with Dongfeng in Wuhan.

Peugeot chief executive Alain Favey said China would play a key role in the brand’s future.

“China is a major driver of our global transformation, particularly in electrification, innovation and brand elevation,” he said.

The announcement was accompanied by the unveiling of two new concept vehicles – the Concept 6 large electric sedan and Concept 8 large electric SUV – previewing the brand’s future design direction and electrification push.

While both remain unconfirmed for production, they signal Peugeot’s intent to strengthen its global EV offering, potentially using China as a manufacturing base for international markets, including Australia.

Such a move would mark a signifi-

cant shift for the French brand, which has traditionally relied on European production for export models, with plants in France, Spain, Slovakia and Portugal.

For Australia, where Peugeot is distributed by Inchcape, the strategy could provide access to more competitively priced models – a key factor as the brand struggles to gain traction.

Peugeot sales in Australia fell 28.8 per cent in 2025, with its light commercial vehicles leading a modest sales mix and passenger models posting relatively low volumes.

The slump has continued into 2026, with overall sales down more than 30 per cent in the first quarter.

Globally, Peugeot delivered about 638,000 vehicles in Europe last year –its biggest market – but volumes were largely flat year-on-year.

The broader Stellantis strategy reflects a need to streamline operations

while remaining flexible, particularly as the group faces competition from Chinese EV brands and shifting consumer demand.

Chairman John Elkann and major shareholder Exor are understood to support the more focused approach, which prioritises scale and profitability over maintaining equal investment across all brands.

Stellantis is expected to outline its updated business strategy in more detail at a presentation in Detroit on May 21.

Taken together, the changes point to a more targeted, regionally adaptive strategy – with Peugeot’s China export push potentially becoming a key test case for how the group balances global scale with local market realities.

– Peter Barnwell

• More tech, all-wheel drive and revised performance model added to VW’s

Volkswagen updates electric ID.Buzz

Significant updates have been announced for Volkswagen’s fully-electric ID.Buzz van, due to commence international rollout mid-2026.

Updates include the addition of new all-wheel drive 4Motion variants, a reappearance of hard buttons on the steering wheel, upgraded technology, and a revised high-performance GTX flagship as the German manufacturer strives to expand the model’s global appeal.

For reference, the current Australian ID.Buzz passenger line-up comprises a single-motor rear-wheel drive Pro five-seat short-wheelbase priced from $75,990, a single-motor rear-wheel drive Pro seven-seat long-wheelbase from $80,990, and a dual-motor GTX seven-seat 4Motion long-wheelbase from $104,990.

The commercial vehicle line-up comprises only the single-motor rearwheel drive Cargo SWB three-seater from $69,990.

Headlining the just-announced update is the addition of a new Pro 4Motion variant, bringing dual-motor 250kW all-wheel drive to the core line-up, with a towing capacity of 1800kg.

As the name suggests, the system uses electric motors on both axles, improving traction and boosting towing capacity.

Sitting above it is an enhanced

ADDITION: More tech, all-wheel drive and a revised performance model have been added to VW’s ID.Buzz line-up.

GTX flagship that Volkswagen says ‘further raises the performance bar’, its dual motor powertrain good for 250kW/560Nm and capable of delivering a claimed sub 5.7 second zero to 100kmh sprint.

Differentiating the latest iteration of the GTX is its ‘unique’ styling, including a gloss-black grille, 20-inch Solna wheels, LED matrix headlights and cherry red paint options.

Interior treatment features a black headlining, GTX-specific seats with

red stitching, and a sporty steering wheel, while on the ride front, the model offers stiffer ‘sports running gear’, which enhances handling but offers a firmer ride than the comfort-oriented Pro models.

Volkswagen has also introduced an upgraded battery option for long-wheelbase versions, with an 86kWh pack improving range and efficiency, supported by a new-generation rear electric motor.

The update extends beyond perfor-

POWER MEETS

mance, with a major overhaul of the vehicle’s software and user interface.

A new 12.9-inch infotainment system features faster processing, improved usability and integrated voice control powered by AI.

Volkswagen has responded to customer feedback by reintroducing physical buttons on the steering wheel replacing unpopular haptic buttons.

New functionality includes one-pedal driving capability, allowing the vehicle to come to a complete stop using

regenerative braking, and an upgraded Connected Travel Assist system with enhanced driver assistance features including traffic light recognition.

Practicality has also been improved, with vehicle-to-load capability now enabling the ID.Buzz to supply up to 2.0kW of power to external devices such as e-bikes or camping equipment.

As mentioned, towing capacity has been increased to up to 1800kg braked for 4Motion models, while long-wheelbase versions continue to offer flexible seating layouts, including seven-seat configurations.

Higher-grade models gain additional premium features such as a harman/ kardon audio system, head-up display, heated and ventilated seats with massage function, and a panoramic ‘smart glass’ roof.

Visually, the update introduces new colour combinations, including a retro-inspired candy white and cherry red two-tone finish, reinforcing the model’s connection to Volkswagen’s iconic Kombi heritage.

The updated ID.Buzz range is scheduled to roll out globally from mid2026, with Volkswagen saying it will further strengthen its push to blend lifestyle appeal with practical electric mobility.

More details of the local model lineup, specification and pricing will be provided as it comes to hand.

– Peter Barnwell

to suit. He has decades-long experience as a news agent – he started with a partnership with two others in Sale in 1995.

In its early days, the newsagency was as busy as a pub. Now supported by local staff and family – Jim’s daughter Shayne travels from Melbourne to support the six-day-a-week business, working administration two days a week.

Jim has weathered the community’s changes – the introduction of Tattslotto brought plenty of custom, as did the changing and broadening array of stationery, cards, magazines and newspapers.

LOCAL TRADE DIRECTORY

Classifieds

CONWAY (nee Smith), Helen Margaret

28-4-1946 to 28-4-2026

Passed away peacefully aged 80

Dearly loved wife of Harry.

Much-loved and cherished mother of Michelle and Michael, and mother-in-law to Laura.

Adored Grandma of Archie, Jonty and Ava.

She will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts

Horsham & District Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

ELLIS (nee Arnold), Julia Ellis

Adored mother of Natasha, Heath and Ryan. Cherished mother-in-law of Andrew, Paula and Alethea. Loving Nana of Hunter, Ryder, Nate and Aiden.

We will carry you forever in our hearts. Xx

HARDY, Jeffrey Basil

Passed away on May 2, 2026 in his 80th year.

Dearly loved father and father-in-law of Slade (dec); Christine & Paul; Aaron & Rebecca; Narelle & Alasdair.

Adored Pa to Jeremy and Caleb; Matilda, Molly and Adelaide; Caitlin and Isabelle.

Great Pa to Skyla and Owen.

Cherished brother to Brendon, Philip, Neil and Annette.

In God’s Care

Waiting for the Resurrection

Henke, Stanley Boolite Fire Brigade

JORGENSEN (nee Schwartz), Esme Norma

28-1-1936 to 30-4-2026

Passed away peacefully at the age of 90.

Loving wife of Alec. Beloved mother of Michael, Sharon, Basil, Roger, Larry and their families.

Now sleeping peacefully in God’s care

Horsham & District Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

LAWES, Daniel Ernest

An informal gathering to celebrate the life of Daniel Ernest Lawes will take place at 4 Centenary Avenue, Horsham next Saturday, May 16, 2026 between 2-5pm

Afternoon tea will be provided. BYO drinks.

Please RSVP by May 8 to 0434 506 931 for catering purposes.

Bereavement Thanks

Thank you

CONWAY (nee Smith), Helen Margaret

The celebration of life for the late Mrs Helen Margaret Conway will be held at Horsham Golf Club, 304 Golf Course Road, Haven, on Friday, May 8, 2026 commencing at 2pm A private burial will take place.

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

HARDY, Jeffrey Basil

The Funeral of Jeffrey Basil Hardy will take place at the Horsham Seventh Day Adventist Church on Wednesday, 13 May 2026 commencing at 10.30am and will be followed by burial at the Horsham Lawn Cemetery.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

JORGENSEN (nee Schwartz), Esme Norma

The funeral service for the late Mrs Esme Jorgensen will be held at Dimboola Lutheran Church on Thursday, May 7, 2026 commencing at 2pm Interment will follow at Dimboola Cemetery.

Port Fairy 4-bedroom getaway with ocean views, just $1400! Free $150 fuel card with special booking , call Langley’s now 03 5568 2899 to book, excluding school holidays

~ STAPLES ~ Alan

We wish to express our deepest gratitude for the love, support, and kindness shown to us during our time of bereavement.

Your thoughts, prayers, and presence have provided great comfort.

Our humble and sincere thanks to the staff at Rainbow Care Home for their wonderful care and support, and to the bowling club for their excellent catering.

We are truly grateful for all the kind thoughts, care and gestures.

Please accept this as our personal thanks.

Glenys, Jenny, Ann, Rohan, Matthew and families

Memorial Notices

COOPER, Christopher ‘Chris’ 10-5-2025

You were my world, The light of my life, I’m so proud and grateful to have been your wife.

I miss your voice and I miss your smile, For my darling now, It has been a while.

Loving you was easy, Losing you wasn’t. And missing you... Is my every day battle.

Until we are together again, Your loving wife, Diane

Port Fairy 4-bedroom getaway with pool table, just $1100! Free $150 fuel card with special booking , call Langley’s now 03 5568 2899 to book, excluding school holidays

locations,

for 7

limited availability, conditions apply Ph 03 5568

Available now 2 Spoodle boys & 2 Spoodle girls are looking for their Furever Families, born on the 16th of October, raised in a loving family home with children and other dogs, cats and farm animals have had their 6 week vet check with first vaccination, microchip and have been wormed regularly, microchip# 95600019516180, 956000019521435, 956000019515465, 956000019523017, 956000019519593, source# RB265884 located just out of Stawell $2500 please call Simone on 0400035456 for more information.

Birds for sale, princess parrots and bourkes, all colours, call for prices Ph 0408535515 Stawell

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

Budgies, assorted colours

$10 each Ph 0417533579

Budgies, including white to yellow, assorted colours

$10 each Ph 0428010996

Buying, Pigs, Goats and Poultry, Ph 0427361940 or Ph 0480137184.

SquareMeater x Murray Gray, 4 yr old gray bull, 3yr old brown bull, a few cows, proven breeders, compact and muscly, commercial herd, NLIS, vaccinated, PIC# 3YKM L014 Ph 0428994210 Warracknabeal

2023 Mystic 12' Fantasy Caravan, only been used once, always shedded, $36,000 Ph 0427857354

BARGAIN Jayco 13ft

2009 StarCraft, Easy tow, electric brake , battery pack, 2 single beds, ring for full list of extras, as new annexe, V16001 $11500 Ph 0419571506

Black series total off road, all extras $50,000 Ph 0428788212

HENKE, Stanley Boolite Fire Brigade, The Chairman, Authority Members, Chief Officer, Officers and Personnel of the Country Fire Authority regret the passing of their esteemed colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.

The Chairman, Authority Members, Chief Officer, Officers and Personnel of Country Fire Authority regret the passing of their esteemed colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

In loving memory of Keith Donald Schwarz who passed away one year ago on May 11, 2025.

Though time has passed, your love, values and guidance remain in our hearts.

Forever Remembered Forever Loved

Kelpie x Staghound male pup, 6.5 months old, sandy colour, microchip # 953010007025025280, vac x 3, basic handling, is affectionate, big, and boisterous, POA Ph 0428994210

Pet care for female greyhound in Horsham fortnightly for 3 hours while I grocery shop Ph David 0427864628

Kimberley Off Road Kamper , genuine all Australian made in Ballina NSW $8000 Ph 0427535212

Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Prime beachfront

$1200 - $1500

nights,

2899 to book

Funeral Directors

Funeral Notices

Animals & Accessories

Animals & Accessories

caravans

Motorhome Jayco Fiat

Conquest, model FA 25.3, 4yrs old, $13,000 of extras, EC, 10,000kms $148,000 Ph 0428340802

REDUCED 2006 Concept

Ascot 18', low kms, EC, stored under cover, lots of extras $15,500 ONO Ph 0413445347

REDUCED 2010 Paradise

Grande Caravan, length over all 25 foot, dual air conditioning, washing machine, fridge freezer, full annex, van in VGC, host of extras, $25,000 inspection invited Ph 0417580747

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 $15,500ono Ph 0407360212

REDUCED 2018 Franklin

Core 22', one owner, excellent condition, gas heater, twin bunks, washing machine, $1000+ extras, $57,000 Ph 0401986201

REDUCED Jayco

Freedom 2001, Horsham van from new, always shedded, easy tow, new tyres/bearings done, single beds, all applicances, EC, reg P06130, $8,990 Ph 0419158894

REDUCED New Age 2013, queen bed, TV, large fridge, microwave, gas/electric hot plates, toilet, shower, washing machine, full annex, sway bars, $39,000 Ph 0427778747

REDUCED Toyota

Coaster camper, 2 seater, diesel heater, 1hz motor, solar and 12v awning much more $27,500 Ph 0418325662

Sentiveco daily/5th wheeler combo, set up for off grid, too many extras to list, was $102,000 now $97,000 Ph 0438149265

Deb Dress For Sale, Size: 10-12, worn once, excellent condition, dry cleaned, $400 Ph: 0429802767

1 Case tractor Model l, 1 McCormick Deering Model W30 $2000 ono each Ph 53844287

Chamberlain 4080, FEL, Reg 08774F $12,000 Ph 0427051915

Portable Sheep Yards, 14 panel $5000 Ph 0427051915

Slasher 3PL J.Berands EP135, 4'6'' cut wheel kit as new $2300, Small Bale Pickup loader Irish $120, Hay Stack Elevator $120, PH 0427 871 404

Small square bale hay stack elevator $120 Ph 0494034244

Oaten hay and wheaten hay 8x4x3 bales, feedtests and delivery avail by single or b double load Ph 0429944146 Nhill

2 swags $300 total, health sauna $4000, electric boat motor $200, taking best offers on: igloo tent, train set and antique wooden table Ph 0429948774

5 litre oxygen concentrator as new, beige recliner rockers, blue 2 seater couch, kitchen table, colour tv Ph 0429821820

Aluminium Ute Tray , electric/hydraulic tipper, ram overhauled $3200 Ph 0428944462

Arrow Wood Heater model 1900, excellent condition, as removed

$500 Ph 0427581825

Beko dryer $449 entertainment unit $400both in excellent condition, all discounted by 50% Ph Jenny 53836242 or 0429029215

Bicycles, Geeko boys bike 12" $10, Mens Trek mountain bike $50, Ladies Avanti Discovery 27 Speed as new $300, Unisex Trek 'Legal' E-Bike

Bosch Electrics, hydraulic disc brakes, as new, cost $4k + selling for $2900 Ph 0427617677 Horsham

CCE cage on wheels 6x4 well made $400 ono, 500 gallon ex fuel tank $100 ono, Coolgardie safe $100 ono, Ute crate, 6x4 tub tight

$50 ono, Bailey extension ladder 5.3 extends to 6.3

$500 ono, 44g drums ideal for grain feeding cattle, best offer Ph 0429857207

Chook house , 1500mm wide 1400H x 1200L, nest box attached, keep your chooks safe from predators, $250 Ph 53583440

Electric motor , working order $80 Ph 0428504301

Firewood, Redgum, ox, white gum. 10x6 tandem tipper heaped $300 del Horsham Dimboola area Ph 0429647095

Fishing Kayak , 2.7m, many extras, $350 Ph 0458401053

FOR SALE Teak TV

Cabinet 2 shelves 2 glass doors at bottom, 151H x 104W x 700 as new $60, large towing mirrors $40 Ph 0409967815 pick up Horsham.

Four arm walker, $150 ph0437600095

Fresh Farm eggs! $5 a dozen Ph 0423182267

Gold and opal ring , approx 80yrs old, current valuation $4500 would like $1000 Ph 0458014560

Industrial Extensions Ladder (Gorilla), closed 3.7 EXT 8.5 $475, Ph 53826461 or 0429 309 491

John Deere 3038E

Tractor/Loader , ROPS/ canopy 4WD, 3PL, PTO, quick hitch, 4 in 1 bucket & forks, ballast box/towbar, 37HP Yanmar turbo, HST transmission, 300 hrs fully serviced ex/cond $25,000 ono Ph 0448826464

Kayak Dragon , 3.6m, 2.5 seater, green & white, very good condition, support seats, paddles, buoyancy vests, $450 Ph 0407340345

L shaped lockable 5 glass shelf display case, with 5 downlights, 500mm lockable storage at bottom, 2.125 mm x 3.180mm x 400mm wide x 2.14mm high, $6200 ono, or lay by, can be dismantled to a flatpack, MINERALS

NOT INCLUDED Ph 0428564422

Masseuse Therapeutic Dual-Pro massage chair, 2 yrs old, as new, cost $11,000 sell $5,000 ono Ph 0413832765 Ararat

Multiple items - Swing saw, new belts, 39" blade with bench, Kohler motor rec, 2 old lawn mowers, good goers, chainsaws all in good cond, all makes, 10 speed mens bike, ex cond, 80ltr car fridge, in cooler bag, new, never used, make an offer Ph 0429824055

Oaten hay rolls for sale,4' 6 X 4, $75 p/roll Ph Terry Wardlaw 0427105591

Balmoral

Pallet Jack crown, very little use from new, asking $400 Ph 0421791492

Stawell

Pea straw small square bales $8 per bale, great garden mulch, pickup or delivery to Ph 0488303725

Portable air compressor, new, very handy machine $1500 firm Ph 0407340961

Radial arm saw bench OMGA 240v, tungsten blade, $460 Ph 0428535646

Trailer, approximately 6x4, low capacity, new tyres and LED lights $600 Ph 0418148650 Ararat

Wood Thicknesser , Barker 2', AE Herbert 1' buzzer, sold together $2000 Ph 53524764

Lift Bed , IC333 four function, used 6 months, includes cool balance 10' mattress $3000 each 2 available Ph 0417156434

Horsham

2018 KTM 65, 2nd owner, powerful little motorbike, ready to go! $3200 ono Ph 0447316525

New TC Boxes 900mm tapered under tray alloy toolbox (pair) Ph 0400387895

3.7 savage aluminium boat , UM198, 20 HP

Mercury forward steer reyco trailer, b15834 electric motor and lawrence fish finder $2200 ono Ph 0428523919

Stacer Aluminium boat, 3.6m boat with trailer and 9.9hp Evinrude motor, comes with 3 adult life jackets, 2 child life jackets and fish finder $1800 Ph 0417105439

Roof rack Alloy Tradesman with mesh floor $500 Ph 0418138329 Stawell

2004 Mitsubishi Magna, all wheel drive, not going, vin# 6MMTL9F424T024238, 320,000km $800 Ph 0419303839

Electric Scooter , disc brakes, carrier, 2 speeds, back shockers, brand new, helmet included $820 Ph 0428425686

Topgun mobility scooter, EC, shade canopy, front basket, rear carrier, inspections welcome $3800ono Ph 0438354414

2001 Ford Transit tray 14 feet, 5 speed manual, 3 months reg and rwc, 233,870kms, RJI379 $6,300 Ph 0490364260 2002 Prado TX 3.00lt diesel, excellent condition, 390,500kms $8000 Ph 0429822550

Elantra 2011 , ne owner, service history, registered YMO060, $5200 no RW Ph 0418139213

Clothes & Accessories

Suzuki Grand Vitara

Trekker JB 4D Wagon, RW N165534 11/7/25, speedo when purchased 202,549kms current 20,6528kms, has little use only 4079 kl, tow-bar, full service history, great car to drive, reg Oct 26 1GO5JL $6850 Ph 0466641895

2005 Ford XR8 MKll Magnet Series, auto, in all original excellent condition, ADE756 $18,500 Ph 0488721947

2017 Holden Trailblazer LTZ Auto, full service history, RWC supplied, excellent condition, roobar, towbar, roof racks, 227,000km $19,300 Ph 0409559364

REDUCED 1988 BMW

320i convertible , 6cyl.5sp manual, recently unregistered, always serviced and undercover, original paint, drives beautifully, extras, engine# 206KA25194243, 240,000kms

$18,000 non-negotiable Ph 0438297899

Jaguar 25 F Pace R Sport sedan , R/W, gen reason for sale, EC, AWP498, $26,000 Ph 0428382790

2019 XL Ford Range r, white 4x4, ute/steel tray and locked undertray boxes, RWC, bull bar, tow bar, snorkel, rear camera, gen reason for sale, EC, 89,761kms, 1RO-7EC

$42,000 Ph 0428382790

2022 Nissan Navara cab chassis, 4 by 2, turbo diesel, 7 speed auto, RWC supplied, bullbar, driving lights and towbar, extended warranty, 65,100kms, $29,000 Ph 0429942637

Ford Escape Trend ST Line 2022 97,000km One owner, full service history, RWC, Tow Bar, Rego til June 2026 $26,000 Ph 0427343783

Toyota Troopcarrier , 2005 1HZ, 3 seat, cruise control, diff locks, winch, bullbar, LED spotlights, twin batteries, solar panel, drawers/shelves, 16" sunraysias, one owner since new, 1RY5UP, 296,000kms $38,000ono Ph 0427790754

Fiji-Indian woman , 50, caring, gentle, family-oriented and never married, hopes to meet a sincere Australian man who is financially secure, owns his home, and seeks a genuine companion for marriage and shared care. She values kindness, loyalty, and a peaceful home life. Ready to provide care Ph +679 923 2717 or email fijirose1010@gmail. com, and PO BOx 5353 Lautoka Fiji

1/4 acre block , fully fenced, ready to build, Jeparit Vic 3423 $37,500 Ph 0439581125

L/h set King Cobra golf clubs , 2 putters and bag, Graphite shafts, good condition $400 Ph 0419509335

Ladies r/h P.G.A golf clubs, all new, full set, bag, buggy cover, spare balls and tees etc $900ono Ph 0427548094 or 0428826834

Bellhousing from straight 6 Holdens HQ, HX, HZ Ph 0421791492 Stawell

Caper trailer tent top , to fit 7ft x 5inc Walkabout trailer Ph 53569340 or 0412482521 Landsborough

Chev truck rim 19251929 Ph 0427506552

Gear box from a grain auger Ph 0421791492 Stawell

LP Records, prefer 60's, 70's, 80's and rabbit traps Ph 0400017344

Wanted to buy, RC model aircraft, will buy collections if the price is right Ph 0435621004

Wanted, Bean Agitator for Inter 511 28 row combine, (runs in the seed box) Ph 0418822700

Horsham Agricultural Society ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at 7pm

Len Hobbs Meeting Room Maydale Pavilion

Contact Andrea Cross, Secretary maydalereserve@gmail.com for nominations to ll vacancies from members Con rm minutes of last AGM Election of of ce bearers Retiring Councillors for re-election: Ian Walter, Debbie Carman, Cindy Francis, Di Bell

2014 Toyota Prado, GX 4x4, RWC, reg til Oct, 1BJ6BL $24,000 Ph 0409954335

2018 Toyota Landcruiser Prado GXL , auto, 4x4, EC, 1LZ3FW, 190,000kms $39,500 Ph 0431603221

49 year old separated/ single true gentleman bloke from Horsham who likes reading, music, occasionally going out for dinner then next the movies or watching movies at home, fishing and camping, walking and swimming, looking for 48+ old lady for serious relationship Ph 0491230835

Frontend Loader bucket, 1.5 cubic meter, to fit Victory 280E Ph 5385 2628 after 7.30pm

Help Wanted, Spring/ House cleaning, located in Warracknabeal, price and time negotiable Ph 0435592080

WOMAN FOR MARRIAGE

genuine connection. Only serious and sincere individuals, please. Please email: johnpeterlove@songwriter.net

with

planet

2019

You will lead a team of amazing staff and volunteers who are just as passionate at giving back to their community as you will be! If you love the idea of contributing to your local community by growing sales, coaching your budding retail heroes, and bringing in much needed funds to the organisation, then we would love to hear from you!

To apply, please visit: https://svdpvic.applynow.net.au/jobs/SVDP348014 You also can send your application to: recruitment@svdp-vic.org.au

SPORT HIGHLIGHTS: The Weekly

Advertiser photographer PAUL CARRACHER captured several sporting moments during the past week, including Horsham Heat volleyballers competing against Derrimut Knights in the Victorian Volleyball League, Horsham Golf Club’s annual tournament, Wimmera league’s Southern Mallee Thunder and Horsham Saints senior football clash, and Horsham District league A Grade netballers from Pimpinio and Taylors Lake. Pictured in action are, clockwise from above: Lisa Jakobi; Lyn McCrae; Pimpinio’s Tilli Menzel; Horsham Heat’s Sophie Quick; Horsham Saints’ Judd Wright; Horsham Heat’s Amelia van Buuren; and Horsham Saints’ Bailey Brennan tackles Billy Lloyd, Southern Mallee Thunder.

Yanac maintains its record

BY SIMON KING

Some variable weather conditions greeted teams at Davis Park in Nhill for the second round of the Wimmera Hockey Association season, but this did not detract from the standard of hockey on display.

The rematch of the 2025 open grand final was the feature game, but due to some off-season player movements it was a much different Horsham Hurricanes team that lined up on Saturday to attempt to avenge its loss to Yanac Tigers in the last match of last season.

Unfortunately, this meant the game was of the same standard as when they last met, and the Tigers increased their winning margin to seven goals.

Nhill Rangers continued to impress in a one-all draw with Kaniva Cobras. Nhill took the lead with a goal within minutes of the start of the game, and in an otherwise very even match, it took until midway through the third quarter for Kaniva to equalise.

While Nhill controlled more of the play in the last quarter, it was unable to penetrate the Cobras’ defence again, and the match ended in a tie.

The closest match in the women’s competition saw Kaniva overcome Nhill Thunderbirds by three goals to two.

After a scoreless first quarter, a converted penalty corner put Kaniva on the scoreboard soon after play resumed, but this was matched by a Nhill field goal just before halftime.

Kaniva again drew ahead early in the third quarter, but Nhill remained in the game with a second goal in the middle of the last quarter.

The game looked headed for a draw until a converted penalty corner with just under four minutes of play remaining put Kaniva ahead.

Despite some spirited play, Nhill was unable to reply in what little time remained and Kaniva maintained its undefeated start to the season.

The other two matches were not quite as close, with the Dimboola Roos defeating Warracknabeal and Yanac controlling its game against Horsham Jets right from the start for a comfortable win.

Dimboola Kangaroos have found themselves in unfamiliar territory, undefeated at the top of the under-16s

PRESSURE: Dimboola Roos’

ladder after a victory over Warrack Revengers, and Yanac Warriors also maintained their perfect opening to the season with a win over Horsham Bombers. In the closest match of the round, Nhill Leopards held on for a one-goal victory over Kaniva Raiders. Hockey action returns to Dimboola for round three this weekend, which is headlined by two big games in the open division.

Yanac Tigers have started the season confidently as the only open team with two wins going into round three, and will present a big challenge for Kaniva Cobras, who have started their season with two draws.

Warrack Hoops are coming off the bye and are still to have the opportunity to show their best form, and although Horsham Hurricanes started their season last week with a loss to the Tigers, they should be a different team on the turf, which will make this an entertaining game that could go either way.

The first two rounds of this season have seen the top three teams in the women’s competition from last year all play a team that finished in the bottom half of the ladder, which has already created a gulf between the top and bottom halves of the women’s competition, but this is all about to change as teams from within these two groups begin to play each other.

Hauselberger gets a shot away despite pressure from Warrack defenders,

Both Yanac and Kaniva will try to keep their perfect starts to the season going when they meet on Saturday evening, and the team closest to challenging the top three, Nhill Thunderbirds, will play current competition-leading Dimboola Roos on Friday night.

Although the remaining game is between two teams that have yet to register a win, it could be the closest match of the round.

Both Horsham Jets and Warracknabeal have struggled in their opening matches, and this encounter will be the perfect opportunity for them to calibrate their form against a more closely matched opponent.

Dimboola Kangaroos under-16s have the opportunity on Friday evening to confirm their two victories are a good indication of their new standard of play when they take on Nhill Leopards, the reigning premiers. After a win and a loss, Warrack Revengers will be looking to find some consistency when they play Horsham Bombers, and Yanac Warriors should remain undefeated after taking on the young Kaniva Raiders in the remaining game.

Round-two results –

Open: Yanac Tigers 7 (goals, S. Alexander 2, K. Croot, A. Zanker, T. Alexander, B. Alexander, E. Alexander; best, B. Alexander, T. Alexander, S. Alexander) d Horsham Hurricanes 0 (L. Simmons,

Picture: SIMON KING

J. Di Pietro, J. Hawke). Nhill Rangers 1 (L. Mills; J. Reichelt, L. Mills, J. Knoll, D. Clark) drew with Kaniva Cobras 1 (J. Clark; J. Clark, L. Schultz, T. Jorgensen).

Women: Yanac 5 (E. Alexander 2, M. Mackley 2, C. Alexander; E. Alexander, M. Mackley, S. Hedt, C. Alexander) d Horsham Jets 0 (J. Mackereth, L. Schilling, S. O’Connor, H. Mackereth). Kaniva 3 (N. Hutchins 2, I. Dickinson; N. Hutchins, L. Stimson, I. Dickinson) d Nhill Thunderbirds 2 (B. Clark 2; L. Clark, J. Rowe, K. Clark). Dimboola Roos 10 (A. Baker 3, A. Rintoule 2, N. Kuhnell 2, C. Elliott, J. Hauselberger, R. Hadzig; A. Baker, J. Haueselberger, T. Clark) d Warrack 0 (E. Williamson, D. Stimson, K. Ward, F. Johns). Under-16s: Yanac Warriors 3 (H. Zanker 3; H. Zanker, A. Pedie, S. Hedt) d Horsham Bombers 0 (J. Mackereth, K. Besselaar, J. Luy). Nhill Leopards 1 (M. Sanhara; B. Cannell, J. Cannell, B. Clark) d Kaniva Raiders 0 (J. Beattie, R. Williams, L. Williams). Dimboola Kangaroos 4 (R. Williams, C. Elliott, T. Howard, L. Hauselberger; A. Pretorius, R. Hadzig, R. Williams) d Warrack Revengers 0 (R. Bish, S. Williamson, C. Peters).

Development program: Yanac Lowan Stars 3 (goals, E. Alexander, L. Rethus, M. Dart) v Horsham Black Hawks 1 (G. Porter). Nhill Bandits 3 (A. Marra, S. Bee, M. Chequer) v Kaniva Rampagers 2 (A. Bedford, A. Beattie). Warrack Avengers 3 (T. Flannery, R. Williams, L. Pervis) v Dimboola Kookaburras 4 (C. Wallace 2, L. Hauselberger 2).

Milestone weekend for Farr, Elliott

Horsham Demons junior footballers Oakley Farr and Archie Elliott had a weekend to remember, with Farr debuting for the North Ballarat Rebels, while Elliott represented Victoria Country.

Farr is the third Wimmera-based player to debut for the Rebels’ under-18 boys team in the Talent League this season after Riley Downer and Elliott each played their first games in round two.

Also in the Rebels’ squad are Levi Munyard, who debuted last season, and his brother Zane, who is yet to debut.

Spoiling Farr’s debut were the visiting Northern Knights, who handed the Rebels a 17.17 (119) to 9.2 (56) loss at their Mars Stadium home in Ballarat.

Missing the clash was Elliott, who was selected to represent Victoria Country in a showcase match against the Talent League Young Guns on Saturday.

The Young Guns team features overage Talent League players eligible to be selected in this season’s AFL mid-season draft, while for the Victoria Country players the match represented a chance to push for selection at this year’s national championships.

Rebels talent lead Brooke Brown congratulated Elliott on his selection, calling it ‘a great achievement’.

Devlin dominates croquet comps

Robyn Devlin enjoyed success in Horsham Golf Croquet’s competitions this week, winning division three on Thursday and Saturday.

Jenny Walker and Lorna Mills were the respective runners-up.

Saturday’s division one winner was Marg Pope, ahead of June Liddy, with Marj Weidermann and Greg Phillips leading division two.

On Thursday, Ian Rees and Rob Bahr topped division one, while Rachel Cousins and Greg Phillips led division two.

Jennie

Kate Williamson, left, and Faye Johns.

All-rounders shining in spirit awards

Horsham District Football Netball League and Wimmera Football Netball

award each playing round. The Spirit of Football and Spirit of Netball awards

Maya Przibilla – HDFNL

Laharum’s Maya values netball for the friendships she has formed, starting in 2018 in the Net Set Go program. Maya made her official debut in the 13-and-under team in 2021, and won her first best-and-fairest award at the age of 11. She has progressed through the junior ranks, winning another three club best-and-fairest awards, captaining the 2025 15-and-under premiership team, finishing runner-up in last year’s league best-and-fairest count, and has played in multiple interleague and association teams. Blue Ribbon Foundation co-ordinator Les Power presents Maya her award.

Angus Crute – HDFNL

Laharum footballer Angus, pictured with Blue Ribbon Foundation co-ordinator Les Power, started playing in the Auskick program at age six and played his first game of under-14s in 2023. He is the under-14s captain this year and has also started playing under-17s. He said he loves football and is enjoying both his leadership role in under-14s as well as the challenge of playing under-17s.

Nevani Woods – WFNL

Ararat netballer Nevani, pictured with her coach Rebecca Skrabl, is hugely respected among her team-mates. She is an incredibly conscientious player who always puts in 100 per cent and supports her teammates on and off the court. Nevani is the first to volunteer to assist with scoring, timing, cleaning up or helping to mentor junior players. She is a quiet force of nature who always respects her opponent, and always shows up with a positive attitude. She is a joy to coach and play with in her final season of under-17’s and leaves behind a strong legacy for the younger players to follow.

Jye Buncle – WFNL

Ararat footballer Jye, pictured with mum Kim, is polite and puts the needs of others before himself, which shows in both life and in football. He continues to listen to his coaches and as a result continues to improve his football skills. He plays a fair brand of football and respects the umpires, teammates and opposition players during the game. He is always willing to help out around the club in any way that he can, whether that is running water, doing boundary or helping out the senior grades of football.

Sid Kingston – HDFNL Rupanyup footballer Sid, pictured with Blue Ribbon Foundation co-ordinator Les Power, is described as an asset to his club. He is a ‘gentle giant’ who goes hard at the football and is strong in a marking contest. His discipline, kindness and respectful nature are valued, and he is a wonderful example to everyone at the club, particularly the little tackers – not just how to be a good player and club person, but a good person in general. Sid plays junior and senior football and is poised for a wonderful year.

Emma Gellatly– HDFNL Emma is a valued Rupanyup member who started her netball career with the club in 2022. She co-captained and led her team to the 15-and-under premiership in 2024. This season Emma is co-captain of the 17-and-unders, plays B Grade and also made her A Grade debut in the Anzac Day clash against Laharum. Emma is a diligent defender and reads the play with ease. She shows great sportsmanship and gives 100 per cent while valuing and encouraging her team-mates. Emma is also an excellent umpire, receiving her C Grade badge last year. Les Power presented her award.

A winning formula

BY DAVID BERRY

Volleyball Horsham Heat wom-

en’s team scored two strong wins against Derrimut Knights in round four of the Victorian Volleyball League to remain on top of the state league one ladder.

A straight sets morning victory was followed by an afternoon two-hour five-setter, with the team coming from two sets down to claim the win in strong fashion.

While the women were winning the men were not as lucky, going down in their first game in a close three-setter, but showing plenty of improvement as the day progressed, pushing Derrimut Knights to five-sets in their second game.

Heat vice-captain Cleo Baker was full of praise for captain Laelah Robertson for the impact she had in the morning game, as well as setter Hannah Whyte.

“Laelah was brilliant in her first full game as a pass-hitter, after being managed through the first four games with a shoulder injury, and she hit the ground running, hitting plenty of winners and serving well,” she said.

“Hannah set really well and gave our

hitters an armchair ride. She was great.”

Baker said the return game in the afternoon was a completely different story, with Derrimut Knights coming out with all guns blazing, while the coaching strategy of Volleyball Horsham Heat did not work as planned.

“Dave and Molly realised part way through the third set that our strategy wasn’t working, so they made a change, which worked for us in the end,” she said.

“We could see Derrimut Knights were getting tired, as their error rate began to increase, while we were able to maintain our consistency throughout the last three sets, even though we had to pull out all stops to win.”

Baker said the most pleasing aspect of the win was the lessons they took from their previous five-set loss against Dandenong.

“We played strongly throughout the fifth set, and at the change we made sure to keep our focus and push right through to the end, which was good,” she said.

For the men it was a case of so near yet so far as they continue to search for that elusive first win.

Captain Noah Werry said his team did a lot of good things in their two matches

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but could not counter their taller, more athletic opponents.

“We defended our hitters really well, recycling a lot of balls to give our hitters another chance, but we just couldn’t convert,” he said.

“Derrimut Knights kept throwing these monster hitters at us and no matter how hard we tried they were hitting over the top of our blockers.

“In the end our defenses, as brave as they were, could not sustain their efforts for a full five sets.”

Werry was impressed with vice-captain Tyler Puls and libero Tim Carter, with both boys playing their best games of the season.

“Tyler was at his sneaky best, winning plenty of points with his ability to find a gap in the block, or a hole in the opposition defense,” he said.

“Tim was at his best, getting under the skin of the opposition with his chirp and his ability to wear a spike in defense, enabling his team to stay in the rally.

“We know we aren’t that far away and that the team is improving with each hit out, so once again we’ll put our heads down and backsides up at training and prepare as best we can for Monash and KVA on May 23.”

Horsham Heat’s Noah Werry and Jai Sartori-Billman

Heat’s Lucinda Ferguson, front, and Hannah Whyte

FIERCE: Above, Horsham Heat’s Angela Bebero, and below, Oscar Jackman.

UNITED: Above, Horsham Heat members celebrate a win, and right, Heat’s James Johns. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Mitchell drawcard for Ararat Eagles

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Ararat Eagles football officials are already working on plans to bring Tom Mitchell back to the region after the success of the Brownlow medallist’s one-off match on Saturday.

Despite rainy conditions, Mitchell helped draw a large crowd of onlookers to the Eagles’ 12.12 (84) to 8.15 (63) loss to rival Tatyoon.

Eagles club president Josh Taurau was full of praise for the former Sydney, Hawthorn and Collingwood superstar.

“Tommy was great. He’s an absolute ripper bloke,” Taurau said.

“The crowd was up and it was a massive day for the club in general.

“I think he’ll be spending a bit more time here. We’re looking at doing a few junior clinics with him as well, so it hopefully won’t be the last we see of him.”

Taurau said Mitchell was generous with his time, signing autographs, posing for photos and speaking at the club’s sportsman’s night.

“The kids loved it. I’ve never seen so many pairs of shoes get signed. Even the Tatyoon kids were loving it – they were everywhere as well,” Taurau said.

“At the sportsman’s night he touched on his career and the best players he’d played with, because he’s obviously played with some absolute superstars at the three clubs he played for.

“He had a bit of a chat about the toll the game takes on the mental health of some of the players and said the AFL should probably introduce a mental-health round.”

While the Eagles were bested on the field, Taurau said Mitchell was influential.

“He played really well. He’s bloody fit,” Taurau said.

“He had plenty of the ball. Obviously the conditions weren’t great for anyone, so his skills probably showed a little bit more than most.”

For the visitors, former coach Andy Challis, Lachie McGrath and Josh Lee kicked two goals each, with McGrath’s second virtually sealing the

contest. Apart from Mitchell, Ararat’s best included midfielder Tom Cousins and co-coach Tom Taurau with three goals.

Next up for Ararat is Moyston-Willaura, which is coming off a 94-point loss to Wickliffe-Lake Bolac.

The Magpies put the Pumas to the

sword in the second term, kicking 6.4 to a single behind to effectively end the contest.

The likes of Blake Hider, Adan Wisby and Will Lawrie stood up for Moyston-Willaura in the 17.19 (121) to 3.9 (27) loss. Round three was also a difficult one

Leagues unite for ‘safe at home’ round

The Horsham District and Wimmera football netball leagues, together with the Wimmera Mallee Umpires Association, will once again host the ‘Are You Safe at Home?’ Round on Saturday, standing united to raise awareness and take action against family violence.

The initiative forms part of the broader Are You Safe at Home? Campaign, a Victorian-based program that raises awareness of family violence and promotes access to support services for people experiencing harm, as well as those concerned about someone else’s safety.

Wimmera league chair Bart Turgoose said as a league, their influence extended well beyond the scoreboard.

“Community sport has the power to shape culture, to model respect, call out harmful behaviours, and create environments where everyone feels safe and valued,” he said.

“Hosting this round is about using that influence to challenge the stigma surrounding family violence.

for Great Western, which left its run too late in a 10.8 (68) to 3.12 (30) loss to SMW Rovers.

The Lions managed only one goal through the first three terms, and while they controlled the majority of the play in the last quarter, errant kicking – 2.8 for the term – ended any thoughts of a comeback.

Other matches on Saturday saw reigning premier Lismore-Derrinallum down Hawkesdale-Macarthur 19.10 (124) to 8.3 (51), Caramut shock Penshurst 20.17 (137) to 6.17 (53) and Woorndoo-Mortlake account for Glenthompson-Dunkeld 14.13 (97) to 7.6 (48).

In addition to the game between the Eagles and Pumas at Willaura this weekend, other matches include Great Western at home against Lismore-Derrinallum, Tatyoon host Glenthompson-Dunkeld, Hawkesdale-Macarthur welcome Wickliffe-Lake Bolac, Penshurst will attempt to rebound against a visiting SMW Rovers and Caramut is away to Woorndoo-Mortlake.

Players, coaches and umpires will take visible action by wearing armbands, demonstrating solidarity and a shared commitment to creating safer communities.

Women’s Health Grampians chief executive Jennie Courtney said the campaign was especially significant in the local context.

“It’s great to see such strong leadership from the leagues in this space,” she said.

“We know it takes a community to prevent violence against women and girls, and we also know the sporting community in the Wimmera is up for the challenge. Asking someone whether they feel safe at home is a small but powerful action anyone can take, and one that could save a life.”

The Are You Safe at Home? Round serves as a reminder that conversations about safety, respect and support can, and should, start within communities.

“By encouraging people to ask a simple question like ‘Are you safe at home?’, we’re helping to open the door to conversations that can make a real difference in someone’s life.”

For more information about the campaign and support services, people can visit www.areyousafeathome.org.au.

MESSAGE SHARED: Wimmera league representative, Horsham Saints netballer Jorja Clode, Wimmera Mallee Umpires Association umpire Chloe Haughton, and District league representative, Taylors Lake footballer Ryan Gebert, promote this weekend’s ‘Are You Safe at Home?’ Round. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

CROWD PLEASER: Former Sydney, Hawthorn and Collingwood

superstar Tom Mitchell was generous with his time, signing autographs, posing for photos and speaking at the club’s sportsman’s night.

WIMMErA LEAGUE

with Lauren Henry

Heavyweights ready to clash

There will be plenty of interest in Wimmera league roundfour senior football games on Saturday – particularly with two games featuring likely finals sides this season.

Southern Mallee Thunder will host Stawell at Jeparit, and Horsham Saints travel to Davis Park to take on Nhill in two matches that will attract plenty of interest.

The Thunder, coming off a 10-point win over the Saints, will take on the undefeated Stawell, who scored a strong 101-39 point win over Horsham Demons.

Shepparton recruit Edward Lindon was named the Thunder’s best, along with brothers Matty and Billy Lloyd, and ruckman Kieran Delahunty, in a match where Saints led for three quarters.

A purple patch by the Thunder early in the fourth term saw last year’s grand finalists hit the front at the 12-minute mark, when the last goal of the match was scored.

The final 20 minutes of the match were peppered with points as neither side stamped their authority on the scoreboard.

Will Brennan, Sam Clyne and Will Tickner were best for the Saints, who now turn their attention to Nhill, who

are coming off a 43-point win over Minyip-Murtoa.

The Tigers got off to a sleepy start at Minyip, held to just one point for the quarter, but with Tom Wheaton, Lachlan Gill and Lucas Dahlenburg the standouts, were able to get their game back on track to boot five goals in the second term and take a 16-point advantage into half-time.

A 7-3 goal second half put the game beyond doubt for the Tigers, who will be a tough task for the Saints this week.

In the other two matches of round four, the Demons, despite lacking fire-power against Stawell, will go into the game against Dimboola this Saturday as favourites.

The Roos struggled with their own goal-scoring opportunities at the weekend, going down to Warrack Eagles 16-180.

The Eagles piled on 27 goals – with South Australian recruits Nic Lehman and Connor McFadyen kicking seven apiece while former VFL ruckman John Jorgensen kicked six.

But Warrack’s task this weekend will be polar opposite to last round –the Eagles take on reigning premier Ararat, fresh off a bye.

The Rats, with a 1-1 win-loss record so far in 2026, will be keen to put their stamp on this year’s season.

Women’s fixture

The Wimmera league has released the 2026 fixture for its women’s competition, which will officially launch at Laharum on Sunday, May 17.

The senior women’s competition will be made up of three teams –Natimuk, Laharum and Minyip-Murtoa, with Horsham Demons not fielding a senior team after struggling with player numbers last season.

In the Under-15.5 section, there will also be three teams – Horsham Demons, Laharum and a Minyip-Murtoa/ Demons combine.

The 2026 fixture is as follows:

Round 1 – May 17, at Lahurum: Seniors: Laharum v Natimuk; U15.5: Laharum v Horsham Round 2 – May 24: at Murtoa: Seniors: Minyip-Murtoa v Laharum; U15.5: Demons/Burras v Laharum Round 3 – May 31, at Natimuk: Seniors: Natimuk v Minyip-Murtoa; U15.5: Horsham v Demons/Burras

Round 4 – June 14, at Laharum: Seniors: Laharum v Minyip-Murtoa; U15.5: Laharum v Demons/Burras

Round 5 – June 21, at Horsham: Seniors: Minyip-Murtoa v Natimuk; U15.5: Demons/Burras v Horsham

Round 6 – June 28, at Natimuk: Seniors: Natimuk v Laharum; U15.5: Horsham v Laharum

Round 7 – July 12, at Natimuk: Seniors: Natimuk v Minyip-Murtoa; U15.5: Horsham v Demons/Burras

Round 8 – July 19, at Laharum: Seniors: Laharum v Natimuk; U15.5: Laharum v Horsham Round 9 – July 26, at Minyip: Seniors: Minyip-Murtoa v Laharum; U15.5: Demons/Burras v Laharum

Grand final – date and venue TBC.

Entertaining match on new courts at Minyip

A draw opened Minyip-Murtoa A Grade’s first match on its new courts at Minyip on Saturday, tying with Nhill 36-all.

It was a close game from the outset, with the Burras able to take a two-goal lead into quarter time, but from there, scores were level at every change.

Minyip-Murtoa coach Laura Schuckar said although she would have liked her side to break away for a win, it was an entertaining match for onlookers.

She said the match was low scoring, particularly in the fourth quarter, where both sides scored four goals each.

“ I think there was eight minutes there where there wasn’t a goal score at all, so that had everyone on the edge of their chairs, but the weather sort of impacted that as well, with the wind and rain,” she said.

“I think both teams had plenty of opportunity to run away with it, but neither of us really took it at the right time and a draw was probably the fitting result, really.”

Schuckar said impressive games from young Burra Ruby Wilson and ultra-consistent midcourter Lucy Brand helped Minyip-Murtoa’s performance.

“Ruby played goal-keeper for the game and it’s probably her best match of the year so far,” she said.

“It was really pleasing to see her step up and have a really good game – she certainly showed what she’s capable of.

“And Lucy, she’s just forever consistent – she’s a player you can always rely on to settle a side and very rarely makes any mistakes, so she was a very steady head for us on the day, which in a close game like that, we needed.”

The Burras officially opened their

CHIROPRACTIC CENTRE

Headaches are one

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the most common causes of chronic pain globally

new courts and changerooms at Minyip on Thursday last week, made possible due to a $1.9-million Federal Government grant, $100,000 club contribution and $50,000 from Rupanyup Minyip Finance Group.

The club now has a new netball court with bench seating, a netball shelter, fencing and LED lighting to keep players and spectators safer and more comfortable on and off the court.

The funding has also helped deliver new female changerooms for football, netball and swimming athletes and umpires, accessible and unisex toilets and new first-aid rooms.

“It was really nice to have a run on the new courts and we’re incredibly lucky to have the new facility there, with new change rooms and we’re all decked out ready for a big year ahead now, which we’re very thankful for,” Schuckar said.

Immobile and stuck joints in the neck cause a cascade of issues leading to headaches, neck stiffness, and inflammation.

Common over-the-counter anti-inflamatories can provide temporary relief though they’re not recommended for long term use. Unfortunately these medications do not address the root cause of the inflammation so you often reach for more when the pain comes back.

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In other games, Dimboola hosted Warrack Eagles in what turned out to be a tight tussle.

There was just four goals between the two sides at half-time, before the Roos jumped out to a 35-26 lead at three-quarter-time.

In an even fourth term, Dimboola held on to win 42-33, with wing-attack Billie Barber and goal-shooter Nicole Polycarpou, 36 goals, judged best players.

For the Eagles, midcourters Emma Koschitzke and Maddie Okely impressed.

Horsham dished out a 65-49 win over Stawell on Saturday, with captain Ebonie Salter a standout in defence, while coach Georgie Carberry, contributing 22 goals, showed her class in goal-attack.

The Demons held a strong 10-goal lead at the main break, before a 20-

goal third term put the game beyond doubt.

Despite the 15 goal margin, Stawell – through goal-shooter Ayva Mitchell and wing-defence Erin Freeland –showed promise in an even fourth quarter.

Horsham Saints easily accounted for Southern Mallee Thunder, scoring an 85-27 win.

Wing-attack Megan Byrne and defender Maddi Bethune were named best players for the Saints, who did not look back after getting out to a 23-10 lead at quarter-time and then pushed out to a 31-goal margin at half-time.

Saints travel to Nhill this Saturday, while Warrack Eagles host Ararat, and Southern Mallee Thunder play Stawell at Jeparit.

The match of the round is likely to be Horsham versus Dimboola, in a rematch of last year’s preliminary final.

CAUGHT: Horsham Saints’ Codi Kenny tackles Matty Lloyd, Southern Mallee Thunder. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

HorSHAM DIStrICt LEAGUE

Kalkee maintains winning form

Kalkee is looking forward to its biggest test of the young Horsham District senior football season against Kaniva-Leeor United this weekend after posting its third consecutive win on Saturday.

The Kees finished in second-last position in 2025 after winning only four of their 16 matches, but have nearly equalled that total already after beating Rupanyup 13.12 (90) to 4.8 (32) on Saturday.

With a perfect 3-0 record and a league-best percentage of 203.64, Kalkee sits second on the ladder after four rounds, but coach Clint Burdett said a true test of the team’s mettle would come against the Cougars this weekend.

“Kaniva is looking like being a finals side, and possibly top three, so it’s going to be a real push for us,” he said.

“The sides we’ve played so far have mostly been competitive for a half, but we’ll prepare this week for a really tough game.”

The Kees were never threatened in Saturday’s win against Rupanyup, kicking with the wind in the first term to explode to a 4.6 (30) to 0.1 (1) lead at quarter time.

While Tanner Smith had been a focal point in Kalkee’s forward line, kicking 21 goals in his first two matches, he played a supporting role at the weekend, kicking one goal but helping to manufacture numerous others.

“We had nine goal-kickers across the board, which is good – it gives us other avenues to score from,” Burdett said.

“Obviously Tanner dominated the first two games we played. The conditions weren’t favourable for big guys at the weekend, but he created a lot of contests and brought the footy to ground, and our smaller guys were able to capitalise on it.”

Paddy Mills starred in the midfield for the home side, while Jye Walter’s forward pressure was important and Luke Byrne rucked strongly all afternoon in the absence of Doug Grining.

For the Panthers, half-forward Adrian Rose and defenders Daniel Weetra and Blake Downer were among the best.

The Kees will take on a Kaniva-Leeor United team in red-hot form, after the Cougars beat previously undefeated Laharum 13.6 (84) to 5.13 (43) at the weekend.

With Lachlan Bates kicking three goals off a wing in a best-on-ground performance and the likes of midfielder Tyler Roos, defender Jock Maddern and ruckman Hamish Bennett all playing strongly, the Cougars jumped to an eight-goal lead at half time before fighting off a Laharum comeback attempt.

Natimuk United posted a 20-point win against Swifts to keep itself in the finals mix.

In a low-scoring contest the Rams led by 16 points at half time but saw their lead trimmed to four points at the final change, with Baggies Liam Scott, Brett Hargreaves and Bourke Nicholls playing well.

But the likes of captain Kaiden Sudholz, Will Kennedy and Zach Smith lifted when their team needed them to, pushing the final score out to 10.9 (69) to 7.7 (49).

Noradjuha-Quantong maintained its perch atop the ladder by beating Edenhope-Apsley 19.11 (125) to 8.9 (57).

The Bombers led by a modest 10 points at quarter time but hit their straps in the second term, kicking seven goals to earn a comfortable lead that was never threatened.

Dylan Shelley and Judah Hobbs were a strong double act in the forward line, kicking 13 goals between them, while ruckman Jack Vague had a customarily strong outing.

Marcus McIntyre was a clear standout for the Saints, kicking four of their eight goals for the afternoon.

A huge last quarter was enough to give Pimpinio a 47-point road win against Taylors Lake.

The Tigers trailed by 10 points at half time and four at the final change, but stormed home with 10.3 to 2.0 in

the last term to win 20.14 (134) to 12.15 (87).

Ruckman Matt Healy starred for the Tigers while Nick Groves kicked seven goals and Jason Westley had four. For the Lakers, Alex Baker kicked six and Patrick Lindsey helped put his side in a winning position until the final quarter.

While intrigue will surround the contest between the Cougars and Kees at Kaniva on Saturday, there are plenty of other enticing matches.

Noradjuha-Quantong will host Laharum in another battle of top-five aspirants, reigning premier Harrow-Balmoral will attempt to fight off the challenge of visiting Natimuk United, winless sides Swifts and Edenhope-Apsley will each have an opportunity to earn their first points of the season when they meet at North Park, and Taylors Lake will look to do the same when it travels to play Rupanyup.

Thrilling upset results in draw

Edenhope-Apsley players were celebrating a thrilling one-goal win against Noradjuha-Quantong following their Horsham District A Grade netball clash on Saturday – all that remained was to sign the score sheet.

But the sheet told a different story.

According to the official scorebook, the game had ended in a 40-40 draw, but the electronic scoreboard at Edenhope Recreation Reserve showed the Saints ahead 40-39.

Captains and coaches of both teams convened to double-check the result and concluded it was a draw.

Saints coach Lavinia Fox said it was a disappointing revelation for her team, which passed the ball around in the final 20 seconds of the fourth quarter to protect what it believed was a one-goal lead, rather than try for what would have been a game-winning score.

But Fox said a draw was the correct result, and a fitting outcome in a game during which neither side led by more than three goals.

“We played as if we had the lead and tried to drain the clock because we thought we were ahead, and it came out in the wash after the game that the scoresheet reflected a draw,” she said.

“It’s just one of those things. You rely on volunteers to do the scoreboard on a Saturday so it’s no one’s fault.

“We just called a spade a spade and decided to go by what the scorebook said.

“I think the draw just reflects how close it was. I think it’s also reflective of how tough the conditions were on the weekend with the wind.”

Defying the conditions to finish with 32 goals was Saint goalie Dee Dee Lambert, converting her shots at a 78 per cent rate, while the Bombers as a team hit only 55 per cent of their attempts.

But Noradjuha-Quantong goalie Shannon Couch was able to secure plenty of offensive rebounds, giving her team a 73-60 edge in overall shot attempts.

Couch’s partner in goals, Bomber coach Taylor Shelley, was outstanding, as was defender Leah Mirtschin, who helped keep Fox quiet.

The Saints also got stellar defensive play out of keeper Danielle Grindlay, who played on a revolving door of opponents including Couch, Shelley and Ashlee Morrish.

Fox was full of praise for Grindlay, along with midcourters Hayley Campbell and Holly Whitehead.

“Danielle had a really strong game with plenty of rebounds and deflections,” she said.

“I think it’s a testament to her that they had to use some versatility through their goaling circle and

change up what they were doing.”

Fox said the game had yielded a silver lining despite the shock revelation of a draw.

“Particularly in those moments of the fourth quarter when we thought we were up by one, we played with a lot of composure and were able to move the ball around and make safe decisions, so I was actually really impressed with how the players handled those pressure moments,” she said. In other results at the weekend, Pimpinio earned a second straight win by beating Taylors Lake 39-36, with Tahlia Thompson and Mikayla Dumesny sharing the load in attack.

Natimuk United outclassed Swifts 42-27 thanks to captain Beth Sudholz’s strong play, Kalkee beat Rupanyup 50-24 as recruit Emily Langley played her best game yet for her new club, and Laharum overpowered Kaniva-Leeor United 68-33.

Headlining round five will be Noradjuha-Quantong’s home blockbuster against Laharum, with the teams occupying the top two ladder positions. Other games will see Kaniva-Leeor United host Kalkee, Taylors Lake travel to Rupanyup, Edenhope-Apsley make a long road trip to play Swifts at North Park and Harrow-Balmoral at home against Natimuk United.

ATTACK: Taylors Lake goal keeper Zoe Gray defends Pimpinio goalie Mikayla Dumesny.

POWER: Pimpinio’s Victoria Taylor looks to pass.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER DIRECT: Taylors Lake centre Kayla Kelm sends the ball to goal attack Maddison Scott.

Hometown success

BY TONY LOGAN

The Bond family has lifelong ties to harness racing in Ararat and enjoyed hometown success last week when their gelding Black Opal Jack took out the $6000 Pat Bellman Memorial Pace.

Trained by Tony for his daughter Karissa, Black Opal Jack was one of three winners on the night for driver Jason Lee.

Trapped three-wide for the first 600 metres of the 2195m journey, Black Opal Jack crossed to the pegs with two laps remaining and Lee immediately eased the tempo for a 61.5 middle half and a much-needed breather.

Lee upped the ante down the back on the final occasion with a split in 28.7 and when Black Opal Jack licked clear of his rivals around the home turn, the son of Bettor’s Wish USA looked to ‘have it in the bag’. Colosimo, Darryl Lawlor, ran on strongly up the straight but could not catch Black Opal Jack, which held on to score by a neck in a mile rate of 1:59.4.

Bond gave the pacer 12 starts in its two-year-old campaign and after posting a string of fourths, thirds and a second, Black Opal Jack saluted at Ararat in November and headed to the paddock for a well deserved

break. The now three-year-old returned to racing in mid-March with a second placing at Maryborough, another at Ararat and a third at Melton before his well-deserved home track victory.

It was the first time the Pat Bellman Memorial was conducted at Ararat, being staged annually at Terang since 1987.

In May 1986, Bellman was driving in a race at Ballarat when he suffered a heart attack close to the finish line.

Despite treatment from the ambulance officers on course, he could not be revived and died on the track.

Show of class

Isthisthereallife started an odd-on-favourite in the $6000 Ararat RSL Maiden Pace and the debutante did not let her supporters down, scoring by 7.2m in a rate of 1:59.6 for the 1790m sprint trip.

Trained at Terang by Marg and Paddy Lee for the Hamilton-Horsham Lewis family, the three-year-old daughter of Tall Dark Stranger, US, and Mistressofillusion led from gate two with the Matt Craven trained and driven filly Sorrydreamaway outside her for most of the journey.

Little changed until they rounded the final turn where Matriarch Daisy, Shane Hoban, chimed in three wide to challenge the leading pair.

But in the run to the post, Isthisthe-

reallife showed her class and scored comfortably from Matriarch Daisy and Sorrydreamaway.

Isthisthereallife is a half-sister to the Lewis family’s smart mare Isthisjustfantasy, 13 wins, and Browniesatmidnight, nine wins, and looks set to go on and add plenty more to the scoreboard.

Boutika returns

Moyreisk trainer Barry Ainsworth and his daughter and Boutika owner Katrina returned to the winner’s list at Ararat when the seven-year-old gelding took out the Ararat Pre Mix King Trotters Handicap over 2195 metres.

Driven by Ada Massa, Boutika made a clean start from the 20 metre handicap and settled three back in the running line during the early stages of the race. Eased three-wide heading for the bell, Boutika moved up to join leader Brown Eyed Kate, Hannah Lewis, for the final lap. The pair raced head-and-head until the home turn where the son of Danny Bouchea raced clear of the pack and went on to score by nine metres from My Mother Said, Paddy Meade, in a rate of 2:08.3.

The victory took Boutika’s record to 14 wins and 25 minors from 113 starts and was well deserved, coming after a 26 start run of outs since his last success at Bendigo.

PRESENTATION: Sunnyside Bowling Club winners, Open B Grade Champion Nigel Zanker, Men’s Championship Singles winner Dale McRae and Ladies Championship Singles winner Norma Hair.

Sunnyside celebrates bowlers

Sunnyside Bowling Club hosted its presentation night on Saturday, with medallions and perpetual trophies presented to winners of all club events for the 2025-26 season.

Winners were: Men’s Championship Singles – Dale McRae; Ladies Championship Singles – Norma Hair; Open B Grade Champion – Nigel Zanker; Open 100 Up – Gavin Watson; Men’s Pairs – Nigel Zanker and Lane Hyde; Ladies Pairs – Norma Hair and Yvonne Watts; and Open Club 4s – Neil Magor, Michael Billet, Terry Miller and

Col Gebert. The club also celebrated the end of the season, playing an event for closing day.

Although official competitions have wound up for this season, social bowls at Sunnyside will continue all year on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons, starting at 1pm.

People need to ring the club on 5382 3115 to enter between 11.30am and 12.30pm on each of those days. New, current and previous bowlers are welcome.

Placing the right people in the rig

Business Traineeship

Horsham – Applications 12 May 2026

SKILLINVE STANDARD

Build a strong foundation for future career success

Long term business with an outstanding reputation in the financial services industry

Efficient admin support role requiring strong communication, customer service, reliability, and willingness to learn while completing a Certificate III in Business.

Is this you?

Good communication skills

Positive, professional attitude and willingness to learn

Basic computer literacy

Contact David Crooks on 0418 564 890

Tractor Operator

Horsham - Applications close ASAP

Casual role kicking off in May 2026

Seasonal role, up to 40 hours per week

Join a leading, reputable Ag R&D team in Horsham as a tractor operator.

Requirements:

Current Medium Rigid Truck Licence

Demonstrated experience operating agricultural equipment/tractors

Able to work flexible hours as dictated by weather conditions

Contact Tamira Cullinan on 0408 109 324

School-Based Gardening & Maintenance Traineeship

Minyip – Applications close 19 May 2026

Undertake a Certificate II in Horticulture whilst earning an income

Great, school, work and life balance with three days at schools, two days on the job and weekends free

Join a country town aged care team as a School Based Gardening & Maintenance Trainee and build real outdoor skills.

Is this you?

Keen interest in working outdoors

Physically capable of performing manual tasks, including lifting, bending and working outdoors in varying weather

Willing to undergo a Police Check

Contact Daryl Eastwell on 0407 364 654

Production Administrator

Horsham - Applications close ASAP

Position commencing June 2026

Join a collaborative and supportive team

Gain hands on exposure to the agricultural and seed industry

Join a supportive seed production team in a hands-on admin role and build valuable experience in a dynamic agricultural environment.

Is this you?

Prior experience in office administration

High attention to detail with accurate data entry and record keeping abilities

Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ability to learn internal systems

Contact Tamira Cullinan on 0408 109 324

Competitive four days

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Horsham

Golf Club of-

ficials are pleased with the success of the club’s 117th annual tournament, with more than 100 players registering on each of its four days.

The club hosted tournament events on Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, with a rest day on Friday.

Club captain David Lavithis said the format worked well, attracting a bigger field of entrants compared to last year.

“We had over 100 players every day. We had 128 on Saturday, and on the other three days we had between 100 and 110,” he said.

“We had visitors from all across Victoria and interstate.

Most days we probably had at least 12 other clubs from across the state represented, which was great. It’s probably an improvement on previous years. There were more consistent entries across the four days.

“There were people who came for Wednesday and Thursday, then there was a rest day on Friday, and then we had other people come for Saturday and Sunday.

“It would’ve helped pump some money into the town’s economy, because a lot of those people were staying overnight and buying food in Horsham.”

Lavithis said a highlight was a hole-in-one by Kobus Van Zyl on the second hole on Saturday during a Texas Stableford teams event, earning himself a $100 coffee voucher from Naked Espresso.

The club also hosted nearestthe-pin competitions across all four days of the tournament on the eighth and 13th holes.

Horsham’s Peter Hayes was the eighth hole winner, claiming more than $800 worth of power tools from sponsor Total Tools as his prize, while Steven Briggs was awarded a $350 voucher for 10 people at this year’s Horsham and District Racing Club Santa Day Races in December as the winner of the 13th.

Tournament winners were–Wednesday: women’s competition, winners June Ayres and Donna Weller, 11 up, runners-up Kerry Henry and Barb Hawkins, seven up; men’s competition, winners Tony Greenberger and David Lavithis, 11 up; runners-up Chris Becker and Howard Schier, 10 up.

Thursday: women’s Stableford

OUT: Steve Bruce punches his ball out of the bunker.

aggregate, winners Kerri Chamberlain and Donna O’Connor, 75 points, runners-up Lorraine Mitchell and Noela Hair, 73 on a countback; men’s Stableford aggregate, winners Craig O’Connor and Stephen Wik, 72, runners-up Brayden Culhane and Tony Nield, 69.

Saturday: women’s Texas Stableford, winners Helene Turvey, Fiona Kelly, Kerry Henry and Gill Phillips, 117, runners-up Tash Palmer, Barb Hawkins, Lisa Kennedy and Noela Hair, 114; men’s Texas Stableford, winners Barry Cross, Shane Cross, Anthony Cross and Chris Walsh, 136, runners-up Brad Hair, Alan Davies, Nick Smith and Tim Officer, 131.

Sunday: mixed Pinehurst, winners Claire Orcutt and Sam Leith, 67.375, runners-up Louise and Tony Nield, 68; two-person ambrose, winners Sarah and Greg Magor, 60.5, runners-up Lee McKenzie and Nathan McConnell, 63.

Lavithis said the club was now preparing to launch a new concept – the Wimmera Aquatrail Golf League, played weekly during football season in a premiership format.

Entries close on May 16, with the first round of competition on May 23.

People can visit horsham golfclub.com.au/events/wagl for more information or to register.

FOCUS: Marion Venn in action on Thursday last week.

CONCENTRATION: Geoff McDonald and Ian Blake ponder their putts. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Horsham Heat pass-hitter Cleo Baker spikes the ball over the net during Volleyball Horsham’s history-making state league debut at Horsham Basketball Stadium on Saturday. The heat played two games each of men’s and women’s games against Derrimut Knights. Story, page 42.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Vol. 28 No. 43 Wednesday, May 6, 2026

For more photographs go to theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Volley spike