The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, October 15, 2025 by The Weekly Advertiser

Peaceful, passionate protest

BY LAUREN HENRY

Asteady stream of protesters driving farm machinery, trucks and vehicles interrupted work on a water pipeline to the Donald Mineral Sands project near Minyip on Monday.

About 80 people – including farmers, townspeople and children – descended on the Minyip-Banyena Road site where contractors are constructing an 11-kilometre pipeline, connecting into the Wimmera-Mallee Pipeline system via a GWMWater pipeline at the Gun Club Road pump station.

The water will be primarily used for the DMS project, a joint venture between Astron Corporation and United States critical minerals company Energy Fuels that will mine 7.5-million tonnes of mineral sands annually for 19 years.

DMS is paying for the pipeline, but it will be owned and operated by GWMWater, allowing for other users

to also source water from the pipeline.

DMS purchased a 6.975-gigalitre water entitlement, from 20 gigalitres of growth water created by the Wimmera-Mallee Pipeline savings, for $17.95-million in 2011.

Since buying the allocation 14 years ago, DMS has additionally paid about $8.3-million in headworks payments, while remaining unconnected to the network.

GWMWater says a peak demand of 8.65-megalitres a day has been modelled and confirmed it can meet its service standards for all existing customers in supply system three with an upgrade of the Lubeck pump station pumps – which is being funded by Astron.

Protest organiser Paul Oxbrow said the turnout for the protest – which carried the theme of ‘Not on our watch’ – included farm machinery, and boats and caravans to represent the importance of recreational water use.

“We obviously don’t want or need

this mine in our area, it’s going to be very detrimental to our farming community, our farm land,” he said.

“This is the start of the mining process – the pipeline that’s going in, it’s a huge amount of water to use, just wasted on dust suppression.

“It’s our water, our community’s water – that’s needed for the environment, for recreational water and for farming stock and domestic use.

“We don’t want to go back to the early 2000s in the Millennium Drought where we had no water on farm and we had dead gardens and were carting water for stock.

“This water is ours and we should be using it, it should be used for Wimmera Mallee farmers.”

Mr Oxbrow, a Rupanyup farmer, said the protest attracted people from other groups opposing projects across the region.

“Whether it’s renewable energy or transmission lines or mining, we need to put a stop to it. It’s poor govern-

ment policy and it is not right for our area. It is not the best thing for Victoria,” he said.

Donald Project operations general manager Grant Huggins said of the 6.975-gigalitre entitlement, DMS expected to use about 2.4 gigalitres each year.

“We’ve been in the community for 20 years. People have different views – we respect that. We thank the Dunmunkle Land Protection Group for voicing their concerns peacefully,” he said.

“We’ll keep engaging with the community as we move forward with the project.”

Former GWMWater board member Chris Hewitt, who farms property that is four kilometres from the DMS processing plant, was at the protest to question the water use for the mine.

“I can’t see how GWMWater are talking to the community about what’s happening? It really is disappointing,” he said.

“The pipeline’s given us security, the storage is, at the moment, at 35 per cent – getting low again – and that’s without the use of water for mineral sands.

“I’m not saying we shouldn’t have the mine, but let’s have the discussion about how we can do it.

“What discussion has there been to the other users in the system about where that water should come from?” Mr Hewitt said there were so many questions left unanswered for the community, including around usage in summer, catering for Total Fire Ban days, and how many days’ supply DMS would be required to keep in advance.

“They’re just practical questions that needed to have been answered – before trench work started,” he said.

“You’ve got to have a strategic direction for something like this, and that’s what the community’s lacking at the moment.”

Continued page 3

HRCC NEWS

Stepping Up for the Community: Klowss in the Mayor’s Chair

Nominate a local hero for the 2026 Australia Day Awards

With Mayor Cr Ian Ross on extended leave due to illness, Cr Brian Klowss has stepped up to fill some very big shoes. He has taken on the role of Acting Mayor—and he’s doing it with heart, humility, and a strong connection to our region that’s driven by his roots in local farming.

Nominate a Local Hero for the 2026 Australia Day Awards

As 2025 comes to a close, Horsham Rural City Council invites the community to reflect and celebrate the people, events, and achievements that make our region stronger.

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Australia Day Awards in the following categories:

• Citizen of the Year (25 years or older)

• Young Citizen of the Year (under 25)

• Community Event of the Year

“I’m happy to step in to help Cr Ross during this tough time,” said Cr Klowss. “It’s really made me realise just how much time the Mayor’s role takes.”

“It’s a big job, and I’m glad to be able to be able to keep things running while Cr Ross focuses on what matters most right now” said Cr Klowss.

“When you stop and look back on everything that’s happened this year — the events, fundraisers, grassroots projects, and the quiet achievers — it fills me with pride to be part of this place. It’s that incredible sense of community that defines who we are.” said Acting Mayor Cr Brian Klowss.

He added, “It’s been a valuable experience, and I’m determined to do everything I can to keep things moving forward for our community while Cr Ross is away” said Cr Klowss.

Nominees must be Australian citizens who live, work, or volunteer in Horsham Rural City.

A fifth-generation farmer from Natimuk, Cr Klowss has lived in the region his entire life. Speaking on his family’s mixed farm, he said “I left school at 15 and have been working on the land ever since,” Cr Klowss said.

Award recipients will be announced at the Australia Day Celebration on Monday, 26 January 2026, at Sawyer Park, featuring a community breakfast, live music, activities, and a Welcome to Country.

The Klowss family farm runs crops and Merino sheep, and Cr Klowss also helps his son with a contract harvesting business in northern New South Wales.

running out fast for the Seniors Country Concert

STAY UP TO DATE

Know what's happening at HRCC. Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter.

Council is inviting the community to provide feedback on one of the key pillars of its long-term planning — the Draft Asset Plan 2025–35.

The ever-popular Seniors Country Concert is just weeks away — and tickets are going fast!

As part of the 2025 Victorian Seniors Festival, this year’s concert will feature the incredible Everly Brothers & Buddy Holly Tribute Show, starring Steven Burns and Rick Gauci. Get ready for a nostalgic journey through the golden age of rock ’n’ roll, with hits like Bye Bye Love, Wake Up Little Susie, Peggy Sue, Cathy’s Clown, and That’ll Be the Day.

This 10-year plan outlines Council’s strategic and operational approach to managing community assets in a financially sustainable way. It details the investment required over the life of each major asset class to ensure these facilities continue to support essential services across the municipality.

Included in the Asset Plan are projections for managing and maintaining:

• Roads

With perfect harmonies and heartfelt performances, this high-energy tribute will transport you straight back to the 50s and 60s.

• Kerbs and channels

• Bridges and major culverts

• Buildings and other structures

DOMESTIC ANIMAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

“We all know someone who goes above and beyond — whether it’s a volunteer, a mentor, or someone passionate about making a difference,” said Cr Klowss.

Cr Klowss is deeply committed to improving our region as a great place to live and work. He places a strong emphasis on local infrastructure that helps keep our communities connected.

Though he’s taken on a big responsibility, Cr Klowss remains embedded in community life. He’s currently Treasurer of the Natimuk and District Field and Game Club, and in his downtime, he enjoys field and game shooting and staying active in local events and causes.

“Now’s the time to shine a spotlight on them.”

Cr Klowss may not have planned to take on the Mayor’s duties, but he is more than ready to represent and support our local community— because it’s always been his home.

Nomination forms are available online or at the Civic Centre.

Submissions close Friday, 21 November.

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

INDEPENDENT MEMBER - AUDIT AND RISK COMMITEE

• Footpaths and pathways

• Stormwater drainage

When: Mon, 20 Oct 2025 1:30 PM Where: Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Hall Bonus: A light afternoon tea will be served after the show.

• Recreation and open space

If you need help booking tickets or can’t book online, please call Horsham Rural City Council on 5382 9777 or the Horsham Library on 5382 5707.

Public consultation is open from Monday 6 October until 20 October 2025, and all residents are encouraged to have their say on how Council maintains and improves key infrastructure over the next decade.

Don’t miss this toe-tapping, heartwarming celebration of music and memories.

Together, the Community Vision, Council Plan, and Asset Plan form the roadmap for delivering sustainable infrastructure and services well into the future.

Visit the QR code to have your say.

Proudly supported by the Victorian State Government – Victorian Seniors Festival 2025.

Horsham Rural City Council is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified individuals to join our Audit and Risk Committee as an independent member.

Did you know that Horsham homeowners are entitled to one free load of waste per valid rates notice at any of HRCC’s transfer stations? This can be a car boot, ute or standard 6x4 trailer load (without a cage).

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the governance and accountability of Council operations, helping ensure we continue to deliver high-quality services to our community with transparency and integrity.

With spring in full swing and fire season approaching, now’s the perfect time to tidy up your yard — and yes, green waste is included in this free load!

Removing excess green waste like long grass, weeds, undergrowth, and overgrown hedges not only makes your property look better — it also reduces fire risk for you and your neighbours.

More information about the Committee and this opportunity is available on Council’s website. Scan the QR code below to express your interest.

The event will kick off at 7pm on Friday 10 October at the Cameron Oval Football Rooms, at 1473 Northern Grampians Road, Laharum.

Get your cat desexed for $45, but only for a limited time

Thanks to the Victorian State Government Animal Welfare Grants Program, Council is offering heavily discounted cat desexing, but only for an extremely limited time.

The out-of-pocket cost for the owner after the subsidy will be just $45 per cat. This subsidy can be claimed on up to two cats per household, and the program will run until spots are depleted.

Spaces are limited and will fill up, so act quickly to secure your spot.

Free transfer station load - green waste Kalkee Road overpass closure this month Get fire ready with Laharum Fire Brigade

Take the time to get fire ready and avoid the possibility of receiving a Fire Danger Notice.

Let’s all do our part for a safer summer.

Applications close: 31 October 2025

People wishing to benefit from this program must provide proof of Horsham residency, such as a driver’s license, utility bill or concession card with accurate address.

Following an inspection of the Kalkee Road overpass, the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) have scheduled repair works for the area.

A desexed cat is less prone to running away, less likely to fight other cats and less likely to spray around the house. Desexed cats are also less prone to certain cancers.

From mid-October, DTP will be performing footpath works and pavement depression repairs on the overpass. These works will require a single-lane closure on the inbound side of the overpass for an expected period of 10 days.

Commuters may expect delays during this period. Signage will be placed seven days prior to the beginning of construction.

Apart from health benefits, preventing unwanted litters will keep from unnecessarily burdening pounds and rescue groups. Owners of desexed cats also receive a discount in registration fees.

Next Council Meeting: Monday, October 27, 2025 - 5.30pm Horsham Rural City Council: 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham | Postal

Council Meeting: Monday, October 27, 2025 - 5.30pm Horsham Rural City Council: 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham | Postal address: PO

Council is updating its Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) for 2026–2029.

This plan guides how we manage dogs and cats across the municipality, with a focus on responsible pet ownership, community safety, and animal welfare.

The draft DAMP was assisted by public feedback collected from 19 May - 16 June, and will be further assisted with another round of public feedback before the plan is presented.

The public are invited to read the current draft on Engage Horsham and provide feedback directly at the Horsham Plaza on:

• Saturday 18 October - 10am - 4pm

The public are invited to read the current draft on Engage Horsham and provide feedback directly at the Horsham Plaza on:

• Sunday 19 October - 10am - 4pm

• Saturday 18 October - 10am - 4pm

You can also email council@hrcc.vic.gov.au

• Sunday 19 October - 10am - 4pm

You can also email council@hrcc.vic.gov.au

Feedback closes 5pm, Thursday 23 October. ASSET PLAN 2025-35

Feedback closes 5pm, Thursday 23 October.

ASSET PLAN 2025-35

This Asset Plan outlines Council’s broad approach to investment in asset renewal, and strategies to improve the effectiveness of this investment, along with developing an overall understanding of the level of investment required to ensure ongoing provision of asset-related services to the community.

Feedback on the draft Asset Plan closes at 5pm on Monday 20 October.

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

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

Feedback on the draft Asset Plan closes at 5pm on Monday 20 October.

Q05-2026

OUTDOOR POOL FILTER MEDIA REPLACEMENT Closes Friday 10 October

AND INSTALLATION

Closes Monday 27 October

HORSHAM REGIONAL LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE CHANGE OF HOURS

27 October

With the end of the winter season, the HRLE will resume its normal starting hours.

From Wednesday 8 October, the starting time will be 9.30am.

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

Join Laharum Fire Brigade for an informative evening - and

Councils unite to further lobby fund

BY LAUREN HENRY

Councils from across the Wimmera and Grampians region have joined the collective push by 79 Victorian councils to further lobby the State Government about the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund.

The councils – supported by Regional Cities Victoria, Rural Councils Victoria and the Municipal Association of Victoria – have jointly written to Premier Jacinta Allan and Treasurer Jaclyn Symes to set out their strong opposition to the ESVF.

A delegation visited Ms Allan’s office last week to hand-deliver the letter.

The letter outlines their ‘deep concern’ the ESVF will unfairly burden ratepayers – particularly in rural and regional communities already grappling with drought, water insecurity and cost-of-living pressures.

“We are united in our view that the ESVF is a tax. It funds services that should be supported from consolidated revenue, and its collection belongs with the State Revenue Office, not local councils,” the letter reads.

“The levy places an inequitable and disproportionate burden on Victoria’s primary producers and rural communities.

“Local government and our communities were not adequately consulted on a reform that directly affects them.

“Transparency and fairness must underpin any funding model for emergency services.

“While we strongly support the vital role of emergency services volunteers, we cannot support the ESVF in its current form.

“The policy is inequitable, poorly implemented, and risks undermining community trust.”

The councils wrote that, on behalf of ratepayers and communities, they urge the Premier and Treasurer to reconsider the policy in the interests of equity, sustainability and fairness.

“We stand ready to work constructively with the government on a fairer and more transparent approach that delivers sustainable funding for emer-

ART FAIR: Rotary Club of Horsham East’s annual art fair showcased the work of photographers and artists of different mediums last week. Guest judge Lauren Larkins selected the best artwork, bay and photograph in show, while attendees voted for the peoples’ choice. Money raised with entry fees and raffle ticket sales will go towards the maintenance of Horsham’s Rotary House. Above, Pam and Brian Hedt, and right, Jacqui Rawling, Henry Rawling and Sue Olston are pictured at the fair on Saturday. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

gency services without placing an unfair burden on Victorian ratepayers,” the letter read.

Wimmera councils have already written individual letters to the government, pleading for the ESVF –which replaces and expands on the Fire Services Property Levy – to be scrapped for regional ratepayers and for it to be collected by the State Revenue Office and not be the responsibility of local government.

The Coalition also released details of what it called ‘Victoria’s largestever parliamentary e-petition’, which called for the Labor government to scrap its unfair emergency services tax, amassing 43,748 signatures.

The petition, sponsored by Member

for Western Victoria region Joe McCracken, will be presented to Parliament this week.

The Nationals leader Danny O’Brien said, if elected, the Liberals and Nationals would scrap the tax.

Mr McCracken said the petition gave a voice to all Victorians who could not afford a Labor cash-grab in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis.

“People are worried about not being able to pay this new tax. They’re worried about losing their farms,” he said.

“Victorians just want genuine consultation and to be heard, but this government has ignored our communities.”

Peaceful yet passionate protest

From page 1

Mr Hewitt said he spent 20 years on the boards of GWMWater, Grampians Water, and chaired the community steering committee for the Wimmera-Mallee Pipeline.

“If you went and asked all those farmers ‘was the pipeline a success?’ Yes, it was. But it was built for some development outside, but not what is going on,” he said.

While not answering the specific concerns raised by the community, GWMWater managing director Mark Williams said the water authority planned and managed the water supply system to balance the needs of urban, rural, agricultural and industrial customers.

“GWMWater is regulated from both a price and service perspective and we are required to meet the service obligations of the urban and rural customer charter. We only enter contractual obligations for water supply that we can fulfill,” he said.

“The potential use of water in mining has been factored into the long-term planning for the region and was part of the development approach for the Wimmera-Mallee Pipeline.

“GWMWater has a long-standing commitment to recreational water supply and our future infrastructure investments will seek to maintain recreation water as a high reliability water product.”

The pipeline’s growth water has long been targeted to three specific industries forecast to have a presence in the region – mineral sands mining, intensive agriculture and viticulture – with the sale and ongoing charges helping lower overall water charges to GWMWater customers, and additional revenue planned to fund future water infrastructure.

Dunmunkle Land Protection Group and Rupanyup farmer Andrew Weidemann spoke at the protest and described it as ‘a very important moment in the history of the area’.

“We’ve not seen people come together like this, united like we have right across most of this area,” he said.

Mr Weidemann also chairs the Across Victoria Alliance – which includes more than 30

groups from across Victoria and is also expanding interstate – and has been instrumental in leading opposition against the state and federal governments, particularly on issues such as the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy.

He indicated the alliance’s intention to stand candidates in upcoming government elections.

“We are looking at banding a national group together, which might actually just turn up at the next federal election,” he said.

“The fight is on and you have to be a part of it. I know this is a journey and November 26, that’s the state election, so hopefully that day will send a big message to most of Victoria.”

Shane McGrath, whose property neighbours the mine site, brought along two pipes to the protest to show the difference in size of what he used on his farm, 25 millimetres, compared to the DMS pipeline of 450 millimetres.

“The volume of water they’re using is extraordinary and people probably in town don’t realise until you see the visual of it, how much water’s going to be used,” Mr McGrath said. He said the growth of likely mineral sands projects in the region played into a worldwide demand for the product.

“We’ve got the small picture of David Byrne maybe losing his farm and the farmers who have already been lost to the area, and then you’ve got the big picture of Albanese promising Trump minerals,” he said.

“It’s a scramble for technology. And it’s got to be questioned – what’s the cost? Here we have farmers producing the food, and they’re wanting to take out farms. Now the miners will say this is only a small footprint, but what happens when it becomes a big footprint?

“We need the people from the city to understand that what’s happening here, it affects all those big picture things. It’s not just a small picture. That’s what the protest today is about – sending that message that we think this is the wrong thing to do to the heartland of the Wimmera lentil-producing, grain-growing areas. We don’t want this to become part of the big picture.”

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Ararat senior constables Nathan Dunn and Sam Louden were among awardees at Victoria Police’s Western Region Division 4 medal and award presentation ceremony at Horsham on Friday.

The pair each received a Regional Commendation for outstanding performance, recognised for ‘displaying bravery, quick thinking and commitment during the arrest of a male threatening suicide by high-risk driving and self-immolation’.

Senior Constable Louden said the award related to an incident near Ararat in March this year.

“There was a family violence incident that occurred in the western region, just out of Ararat, where we needed to safely make an arrest,” he said.

“We were fortunate to be there, and to be able to arrest the offender without any injuries to any part of him was exceptional.

“The gravity of the situation sunk in afterwards, but it was really a collective effort of a number of police members that resulted in our arrest of the offender.”

Senior Constable Dunn said the nature of the arrest was a good outcome, and he felt honoured to be awarded.

“It’s a great award to win, I’m extremely chuffed,” he said.

“But like Sam said, leading up to that there were a lot of members who did a lot of hard and excellent work that put us in the position of being able to arrest him.”

Senior Constable Louden said the incident was indicative of the work being done by police across the state

each day. “Certainly, it’s great to receive recognition of an excellent outcome,” he said.

“However, there are police members doing this day-in and day-out every single day. I think it’s just representative of the work being done across the state.”

Inspector Caroline Johnson and Senior Sergeant Elissa Smith were awarded Divisional Commendations for ‘displaying exceptional leadership, composure and commitment’ and Leading Senior Constable Neil Bradford for ‘displaying exceptional composure and quick thinking providing vital information’ at the same incident.

Constable Sean Hawking and Sergeants Lachlan Hurst and Mathew Olston were awarded Divisional Commendations for ‘outstanding service delivery during a siege in Hor-

sham on January 10 – their actions contributing to the safe surrender of the offender and further ensuring the successful prosecution for significant serious offences’.

Senior Constable Daniel Brody was awarded the National Emergency Medal for his service to others during the 2019-2020 bushfires.

HONOUR:

Recognition of the everyday

Acting Commander

Paul Marshall, Senior Constable

Nathan Dunn, Senior Constable

Sam Louden and Superintendent

Sharon McCrory at the 2025 Wimmera police awards.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

sented to Constable Ellie Leishman. Service medals and clasps were also presented to Victoria Police employees who had sustained diligent and ethical service.

New hours at police station

Horsham Police Station’s reception counter hours have changed, now operating daily between 10am and 6pm.

Senior Sergeant Eddie Malpas said police continue to provide a 24-hour response to the Horsham community.

“Local officers are on duty around the clock conducting patrols, responding to emergencies, and focusing on crime prevention,” he said.

“The reception counter service is closed in the evening and overnight, when community attendance is low.”

Senior Sergeant Malpas said crime was most effectively deterred when police were visible in the community.

In an emergency people should call triple zero, for non-urgent matters people can call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444, and online reporting is available at all times.

Kealy confirmed

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy was among politicians confirmed to be part of the shadow cabinet ahead of next year’s state election.

Inspector Johnson was also awarded the Grampians Regional Aboriginal Community Justice Award for ‘unwavering commitment to strengthening relationships between Victoria Police and the Aboriginal community across the Wimmera’. Her award was presented by John Gorton.

Western Region Division Four’s Culture Award, ‘acknowledging the values of our contract with the Victorian community and each other on how we will act, behave and respect the role entrusted to us’, was pre-

Thirty-five years: Senior Sergeant Brendan Broadbent, Sergeant Dale McIvor, Leading Senior Constables Anthony Clark and Shayne Riggall.

25 years: Leading Senior Constable Hamish Forbes. 20 years: Leading Senior Constable Michelle Elvery, Senior Sergeant Liam McMahon and Benjamin Sleep. 15 years: Inspector Caroline Johnson and Leading Senior Constable Sarah De Rooze; 10 years: Sergeant Alexandria Baldock, and Senior Constables Michael Beaton and Craig Mauger.

Senior Sergeants David Ellis and Peter Robertson received end-of-service awards.

Liberal Party leader Brad Battin and The Nationals leader Danny O’Brien confirmed their cabinet at the weekend, making some personnel changes including Member for South-West Coast Roma Britnell being dumped from the child safety and freight portfolios.

Liberal MPs Nicole Werner, Nick McGowan and Richard Welch were elevated to shadow ministers, while Jess Wilson is the new shadow treasurer.

Ms Kealy, deputy leader of The Nationals, retains her portfolios of agricultural and mental health.

Liberal Members for Western Victoria, Bev McArthur, will remain shadow ministers for local government and government waste, and Joe McCracken, shadow cabinet secretary.

Short-term lifeline for centres

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Emergency food centres at Horsham and Stawell have received one-off payments to aid their operations until the end of June, after Department of Social Services grant applications for funding for the next five years were unsuccessful.

Horsham’s Christian Emergency Food Centre will receive $45,000 from DSS, and Stawell Interchurch Council’s Cottage $36,375 from Uniting Vic-Tas.

In previous funding rounds, the Horsham food centre had received $82,000 and Stawell cottage $48,500.

The recent unsuccessful grant applications for the five-year funding may prevent the groups from applying to the DSS until 2030.

While rallying continues to obtain ongoing, long-term Federal Government funding, Horsham client assessment manager Bev Miatke said the community had extended its support.

“The community is amazing – the donation bin in Coles has just been

Immersive experience

Horsham’s SmartArtz Theatre will stage a Horsham-first next month, with its open air three-day run of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Horsham Botanic Gardens.

Fluid in its staging and its casting, co-producer and actor Amy Anselmi described the production as ‘comedic, visual, and easy to follow’.

“It’s meant to be watched, not read, and we’ve made a lot of effort to make sure the audience can really get involved in the visuals that move the story along,” she said.

“It’s really for everyone – that’s how Shakespeare meant it to be. He wrote this play for the common people, it should feel like a trip to the footy.”

On October 31 last year – 12 months to the day before opening night – the production team studied the light at the gardens to align the setting sun with the storyline.

“Maddi Ostapiw, the director, has timed it so the sun will just drop below the horizon as the fairies in the magical forest appear,” Anselmi said.

“We’re bringing in a few set pieces, but the garden, the colours of the sunset, the beautiful willowy trees and even the sound of the birds, all become part of the theatre.”

The set will use steps, levels, ladders

chock-a-block almost every day, when before we used to get a few things out of it once a week or so,” she said.

“Organisations like the Uniting Church craft shop, Craft for Cause, gave us $4000 the other day, even though they’d only given us something a few months ago. There’s certainly a lot of support and there’s a lot of disbelief that the government would just leave the Wimmera high and dry as far as food relief.”

DSS funding from the same round was awarded to food relief centres at Ararat and Mildura, with some Horsham-based support services also benefiting.

“Recipients Goolum Goolum, Uniting Wimmera and Salvation Army Property Trust all provide great services, but they all send their clients to us for help with food,” she said.

“If people need accommodation or goods, we refer to the Salvos, or if they need counselling or other services that Uniting provides, then we refer to them. It works so well – we’re partners in making sure people get help.”

Mrs Miatke said despite there be-

ing no explanation of why funding was not awarded, the letter sent to the centre outlined that if administrative requirements were met, further consideration may be made.

“We’ve always been really great at compliance and giving all our figures and doing everything that DSS wants us to do, so that’s a given,” she said.

“It left a little bit of a glimmer of hope, but I really don’t know. A little bit of explanation would have been good so that we don’t feel like we’re floundering so much.”

Member for Mallee Anne Webster has twice spoken in Parliament, asking for federal support.

“The Christian Emergency Food Centre and the Stawell Cottage both provide really essential services and punch well above their weight,” Dr Webster said.

“The CFC provides $528,000 worth of client support with the tiny amount of funding they get, and the government has cut that funding.

“Honestly, it is bewildering – even though DSS has, for whatever reason, reinstated some funding for the next

year, it’s by no means enough.” Mrs Miatke said the centre would continue to provide the staples – donations of homegrown fruit and vegetables, and bread would always be available.

“This extra funding will help us buy the extra pantry staples that we do buy, as well as things like medical prescriptions,” she said.

“I really hope we never have to say no to people who can’t afford medication.”

Mrs Miatke said she continued to be amazed by the willingness of the community.

“We knew we had an amazing, generous community before, and the number of volunteers we have always blows my mind, and how willing people are to help each other, we love that,” she said.

“That’s been certainly a good development out of it, and I ask people not to stop doing that.

“But surely, the government is there for us and for the people who are struggling in particular. And really it just seems a bit negligent to just leave them in the lurch.”

and mirrors to amplify and extend the performance space, which people can view from most angles from their picnic rugs, beach chairs or camp chairs.

Elsbeth Schneider, who plays a ‘rude mechanical’ – an actor playing an actor within the play – said the inclusive show was ‘gender-blind’ in its casting.

“It’s very much how Shakespeare would have done it in the day anyway, because all the actors were male back in those days,” she said.

Pre-show entertainment includes a fairy festival, and food trucks will be available, while the show will feature ballet choreographed by Emi-

Have your say

ly Greiger, and live piano music by Gavin Fry.

Anselmi said the all-ages event was the first of its kind at the venue.

“As far as I know, there’s never been a large-scale theatrical event in the gardens of this type,” she said.

“I know it’s been used for the garden show and there are weddings in there regularly, but as far as theatre goes, I’m pretty sure we are the first.”

Anselmi said people who were bringing children – or were young at heart – could come to the fairy festival.

“But you don’t have to engage with any of those pre-show activities if you

Stawell fatal investigation

A man has died in hospital following a collision between his car and a truck on Horsham Road at Stawell on October 2.

The driver and sole occupant of the car, an 85-year-old Grovedale man, was taken to hospital for observation, where he died on Saturday.

The driver and sole occupant of the truck, a South Australian man, 33, was not injured.

Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Any witnesses or people with dashcam footage are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Free fishing

Angling clubs and fishing groups across Victoria will host free events for ‘Gone Fishing Day’ on Sunday.

The annual event celebrates recreational fishing across the country, with this year’s theme ‘Fishing for Community’.

Picture: PAUL

CARRACHER

don’t want to,” she said. “If you’re just an absolute Shakespeare buff, come along. We’re trying to make it as inclusive as possible – we just want it to be theatre without any of the trappings of theatre that sometimes make people feel like it’s a bit serious.

“You don’t have to get all posh and dressed up. You should just be able to come along and just have a jolly old time.”

Tickets are available for the October 31 and November 1 and 2 shows at Horsham Town Hall website and box office.

– Bronwyn Hastings IN CHARACTER: From left, Gavin Fry, Amy Anselmi, Noah Mibus, Becky Bone, Alex Blake, Elsbeth Schneider and Olivia Davis, front, rehearsing for SmartArtz Theatre’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Murtoa Angling Club at Lake Marma has reeled in a grant to help run an event.

Victorian Fisheries chief executive Travis Dowling said to help everyone give fishing a go on Gone Fishing Day, recreational fishing licences were not required anywhere in Victoria.

For more information on event times and places or angling club contacts, people can visit vfa.vic.gov.au/recreational-fishing/events/national-gonefishing-day.

Chaplaincy fair

Horsham College’s October Chaplaincy Book Fair will again sell community-donated books for $1 each to raise money for its chaplaincy program.

The program supports chaplain Yolande Grosser, who hosts Brekky Hub twice a week, regular Faith Fans and Creative Crochet lunchtime activities and supports students during the difficulties of teenage life. The books are categorised by volunteers, set up in the hall by students, sold by the chaplaincy committee and packed away with the help of Rotary Club of Horsham East volunteers, while Waste Busters recycles worn books.

The fair is at Maroske Hall from noon on Friday, October 24 until noon on Saturday, October 25.

The Victorian Government is setting new rules for how renewable energy projects engage with local communities and deliver lasting economic and social benefits.

This is part of new arrangements that will govern how projects access the state’s transmission network. We’re inviting feedback to help ensure the new engagement guidelines include what’s important for your community.

Let’s beat last year’s target and reach 500 boxes!

21KM;

Food Centre Donation Box

Thank you so much for your donation. For storage purposes it is important that we can close each box so please keep to the item sizes listed.

Note: No glass please

■ Canned Fruit, up to 825g

■ Canned Baked Beans, up to 420g

■ Canned Spaghetti, up to 420g

■ Canned Soup (concentrated), up to 420g

■ Packet Soup (eg. Cuppa Soup), 60g

■ 2 Min Noodles, 360g

■ Pasta Sauce (plastic/cans/ pouches), 350-500g

■ Pasta (any variety, 500g

■ Sugar, 1kg

■ SR Flour, 1kg

■ Plain Flour, 1kg

■ Rice, 1kg

■ Cake mix, packet

■ Breakfast Cereal - Weetbix or similar, 350-500g

■ Vegemite (plastic jars/tubes), 150g

■ Tomato Sauce, plastic bottles

■ Tomato Paste (plastic/sachets), packet

■ Ready to eat non-perishable meals (eg. avoured rice/pasta/ noodles and sauce), sachets/ pouches

■ Co ee (cans or sachets – no glass), 100 or 200g

■ BlackTea (no avoured varieties please), assorted sizes

■ Sweet biscuits, 200-250g

■ Savoury biscuits, 200-250g

■ Jelly crystals, packet

■ Toothbrushes, single or multi-pack

■ Peanut Butter (plastic jars/tubes), 500g

■ Toothpaste, up to 200g

Pumping heart-safe communities

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Goroke and Edenhope communities have joined Ambulance Victoria and the Heart Foundation to become Heart Safe Communities, as Dimboola and Halls Gap graduate from the program.

The program aims to improve cardiac arrest survival rates by teaching residents in selected towns how to give cardiopulmonary resuscitation, CPR, and how to use an automated external defibrillator, AED.

The 12-month program also encourages communities to register publicly accessible AEDs, and increase the number of active GoodSAM responders.

GoodSAM is a life-saving smartphone app that connects Victorians in cardiac arrest with members of the community who are willing to start CPR before paramedics arrive.

During the past year in Dimboola, 436 community members –27 per cent of the town’s population – learnt to Call, Push, Shock, and one new publicly accessible AED was registered, bringing the total number of registered AEDs in the community to seven.

In Halls Gap, 157 community members learnt to Call, Push, Shock – 32 per cent of the town’s population – and one new 24/7 publicly accessible AED was registered, bringing the total number of registered AEDs in the community to 10.

Wycheproof also graduated from the 2024-25 program, and there are another 12 towns commencing the program for 2025-26.

The Heart Safe Communities pro-

TAKING CONTROL: Jacob and Evie Morrow with Ambulance Victoria team leader Braeden Hyland at Horsham Spring Garden Festival. Ambulance Victoria is actively promoting its many programs for the benefit of regional communities. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

gram launched in 2019 and there are now 3902 community members trained in Call, Push, Shock; 54 Heart Safe Communities across Victoria; 35 new AEDs registered, 21 of which are always publicly accessible; and there are now more than 17,300 Victorians registered as GoodSAM responders.

Ambulance Victoria Grampians regional director Steve Doyle con-

gratulated everyone involved in the program, as work begins in Goroke and Edenhope.

“The Heart Safe Communities program is all about teaching Victorians that anyone can save a life – simply follow the three simple steps: call triple zero, push hard and fast on the middle of the chest to give CPR, and shock using an AED,” he said.

“Every minute matters in a cardiac arrest and it’s pleasing to know more people in our region will now feel confident to act while paramedics are on their way.

“We’re excited to get to work with community members in Goroke and Edenhope and empower them with the skills to save a life.”

Victoria has Australia’s best cardiac

“Every minute matters in a cardiac arrest and it’s pleasing to know more people in our region will now feel confident to act while paramedics are on their way. We’re excited to get to work with community members in Goroke and Edenhope and empower them with the skills to save a life”

– Steve Doyle

arrest survival rate and the third best anywhere in the world, largely thanks to high rates of bystander intervention.

Heart Foundation Victoria general manager Chris Enright said initiatives such as Heart Safe Communities were designed to support and encourage bystanders to take life-saving action in an emergency.

“In a Heart Safe Community, residents who’ve taken part in the initiative are equipped with the knowledge and tools to respond to somebody experiencing a cardiac arrest,” she said.

“This support includes giving people the confidence to step in and perform CPR, as well as the use of a life-saving AED to help increase someone’s chances of survival.

“The Heart Foundation is proud to work alongside Ambulance Victoria to provide communities with access to life-saving resources and training through the Heart Safe Communities program.”

People can learn more about Shocktober, find their nearest AED and sign up as a GoodSAM responder by visiting www.ambulance.vic.gov.au/ shocktober.

October Specials

Be the difference

This week marks the start of The Weekly Advertiser’s series on the Communities of Respect and Equality, CoRE, Alliance – a program that works with organisations to create safe, equal and respectful communities.

Our partnership with Women’s Health Grampians aims to highlight the work achieved through the CoRE Alliance, aiming to prevent violence against women and gender-diverse people.

Pleasingly, more than 50 organisations, businesses, networks, groups or clubs in the Wimmera have already joined the alliance, with opportunities available for more to sign up, be educated and put into practice their learnings.

The success of the program relies on people being open-minded to learning more about the issue of inequality and violence against women. It is a national issue that is unfortunately prevalent across the Wimmera and Grampians regions where family violence incident rates are above the state average.

Women living in rural areas are more likely than those in urban areas to experience family violence, and they face additional barriers to reporting and escaping abuse, including geographic isolation; limited access to services; a lack of anonymity; community members with conservative attitudes; higher levels of gun and weapon ownership; and the experience of natural disasters, which can increase the risk of family violence.

Yes, sometimes men are victims of the family violence, but let’s make it clear – all the data points out that women are most represented as being on the receiving end.

Australian women are nearly three times more likely than men to experience violence from an intimate partner. In fact, one in four women has experienced violence by an intimate partner, and on average, one woman a week in Australia is killed by an intimate partner.

Almost 10 women are hospitalised each day for assault injuries perpetrated by an intimate part-

EDITORIAL

By Lauren Henry

ner. Sadly, at higher risk, are Aboriginal women who are 32 times more likely to be hospitalised from family violence and almost 11 times more likely to be killed as a result of violent assault. Migrants, and women with disabilities are also more likely to experience violence. They are statistics that are sometimes glossed over, but let’s just sit on that for a moment, and let those facts sink in.

I have been reporting on family violence issues for the past 20 years, and the statistics are not improving. When I was a reporter in Horsham 10-15 years ago, it had one of the highest incidences of family violence in Victoria. It still does.

Police, health and community service professionals can only do so much – this will take a whole-of-community approach to make a real difference.

Family violence starts with gender inequality – how women are treated by others has a lasting impact, one that can develop into various forms of abuse, whether it be emotional, financial or physical. The more people who are educated about gender equality and violence against women, the greater chance it will have an impact on outcomes in our communities.

That’s where the CoRE Alliance program comes in – and can be such a valuable tool for not only participants of the program but their families, friends, colleagues, contacts and wider circle.

As Nelson Mandela stated: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Let’s hope education about gender inequality and violence against women can change our worlds.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Bushfire risk management

Bushfires are a natural part of the Victorian landscape, but with the right planning and action, we can reduce their impact on communities, the environment and critical infrastructure.

Right across the state, Forest Fire Management Victoria, FFMVic, crews are working hard to reduce the risk and impact of bushfires through a combination of planned burning, non-burn bushfire risk management and strategic preparation. Leaves, small branches, long grass and undergrowth can fuel bushfires making them faster, more intense and harder to control.

Bushfire risk management helps reduce this danger by removing excess vegetation or fuel, protecting communities, the environment and critical infrastructure. Less fuel means it’s harder for a fire to start and spread, and easier for our crews to contain. That’s why last season we delivered bushfire risk management works across more than 109,000 hectares of public land.

The seasonal bushfire outlook for spring asks Victorians to prepare for an increased risk, particularly in the state’s west, but also the southern coast and areas around Melbourne. With low rainfall over the past 18 months, the outlook shows areas at increased risk stretching from the South Australian border across to Bendigo, the Otways, Melbourne including the Dandenongs and Yarra Valley and parts of south Gippsland.

As soon as favourable weather and forest conditions arrive, we’ll make sure all available resources are delivering planned burning and non-burn bushfire risk management works.

Our bushfire risk management program is underpinned by a significant body of scientific evidence, built over more than 35 years.

We acknowledge bushfire science is continually evolving, and we continue to invest in research and the best available science to inform our bushfire risk management program.

We use science and modelling tools to choose the right time and approach for delivery of our bushfire risk management program in each location or landscape, combined with our understanding of the ecological needs of our forests and the plants and animals that depend on them.

Planned burning plays a key role in our work in reducing bushfire risk. It involves the careful use of low-intensity fire to reduce dry vegetation like leaves and small branches that build up

WINNERS: Virasat Kaur, top, and Ashling Barber were the lucky winners of The Weekly Advertiser’s colouring competition to mark this year’s Horsham Spring Garden Festival. The colouring competition winners each took home a prize pack.

over time and make forests more flammable. Our crews look for opportunities to carry out planned burning throughout the year, and with drier conditions in parts of the state, we’ve already been able to deliver planned burns over winter, including at Anglesea Heath in the Great Otway National Park, Boggy Creek Nature Conservation Reserve, Gellibrand Bushland Reserve, Wilson Promontory and at Mountain Creek Education Area in Shelley. In areas where planned burning isn’t suitable, such as near homes, on steep slopes or close to roads and towns, FFMVic uses non-burn bushfire management techniques. These include mowing and slashing long grass, mulching dense vegetation, targeted spraying of invasive weeds and maintaining public road networks in forests and reserves.

Each method plays a vital role in reducing fuel loads and improving access for emergency services.

Over the coming weeks, you can expect to see our crews and contractors ramping up the mowing and slashing program.

The timing of these works is important; if grass is slashed too early, before it has cured, it will only encourage regrowth.

Our top priority is to protect life, property and the environment from the risk of bushfires. While Victoria will always have bushfires, we want you to know that when fires happen, we are ready to respond.

We have more than 1800 personnel on the frontline, including firefighters, fire lookout observers and fire support officers; firefighting equipment, including more than 500 ultralight tankers and close to 100 heavy tankers, and more than 50 aircraft contracted for the season ahead.

But being prepared for the bushfire season is a shared responsibility.

While FFMVic crews are working hard on public land, all Victorians are encouraged to start cleaning up around their properties to help reduce bushfire risk in their own communities.

Visit www.ffm.vic.gov.au/reducing-bushfirerisk to learn more about how FFMVic manages bushfire risk. And to keep up to date on planned burns near you, sign up to receive notifications at plannedburns.ffm.vic.gov.au/ or download the VicEmergency app.

Chris Hardman, chief fire officer, Forest Fire Management Victoria

Approaching retirement can bring forth various emotions – excitement, relief, and concern. Questions like when to retire, ﬁnancial readiness, accessing super, income sources, and government assistance may arise. Our expertise focuses on advising those aged 55 and above, addressing your queries to provide peace of mind.

Richard, Penelope and Dean

www.ararat.vic.gov.au

SKATE INTO SUMMER!

Tickets are selling fast for Skate into Summer, on 12–14 December. You're invited to the Ararat Town Hall auditorium to enjoy a festive atmosphere and a big opening night, featuring live crosses with local radio network ACE Radio, as well as giveaways, late night trading, competitions, and a selection of food trucks offering delicious treats to kick off the three-day event. There will also be late-night trading on the Friday night, the perfect chance to get those Christmas goodies while the kids skate. There are a range of sessions available to book, so scan the QR code to book your tickets.

WILLAURA COMMUNITY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLANNING WORKSHOP

Another round of Community Emergency Management Planning workshops, facilitated by emergency management specialists The Six C’s, and supported by Emergency Recovery Victoria, has been scheduled for Willaura. The workshops develop tailored strategies to address unique local vulnerabilities in Willaura’s emergency preparedness, response and recovery capabilities. The next workshop is at the Willaura Memorial Hall Monday, 20 October 2025, 6.30pm8.00pm. Scan the QR code for more information or to register.

@araratruralcitycouncil

CLUB!

Coding Club is where students will collaborate to design and build digital games, learning essential concepts like programming, mathematics, computational thinking, and logic. Coding Club is most suitable for children aged 8 to 10. Sessions are held weekly at the Ararat Library on Wednesdays from 4pm to 5pm. Please bring along your own laptop.

Register in-person at Ararat Library, via email on moya.carroll@ararat.vic.gov.au or (03) 5355 0232. KIDS AGED 8-10? JOIN

VICTORIAN SENIORS FESTIVAL IS ON NOW

The Victorian Seniors Festival is well underway in Ararat Rural City, and for the whole month of October, the schedule is packed full of events so you can get out and about, connecting, discovering and celebrating! This Saturday, Geoff Achison, The Souldiggers & Motor City Sounds are bringing the blues to the Ararat Town Hall. Then, next Wednesday 22 October, you can also enjoy free entry to Good Times & Rock'N'Roll Presented by Rodney Vincent with a suite of great hits from the 50's, 60's and 70's.

Scan the QR code to see the full program of events.

TICKETS ON SALE FOR BUSINESS AWARDS GALA

TIckets are now on sale for the East Grampians Business Awards Gala Dinner, an evening dedicated to honouring the outstanding achievements of businesses from across our region. The evening will be held on Wednesday 29 October 2025 at the Ararat Town Hall. It's the perfect time to treat the team, get out and mingle, and celebrate some of the region's best local businesses. Scan the QR code for tickets.

Political will to act

BY DAN TEHAN MEMBER FOR WANNON

Midway upon the journey of our life,

I found myself within a dark wood’ – Dante’s famous opening line from The Divine Comedy, the greatest of all Italian renaissance texts, aptly describes the Albanese Labor government’s approach to nuclear power in Australia, a metaphor for confusion.

Last month, I returned from a US study tour on nuclear energy, where I witnessed the astonishing momentum of research reshaping the global energy landscape. This reinforced my belief that Australia’s emissions reduction pathway cannot ignore nuclear.

Globally, any serious roadmap to emissions reduction must include nuclear.

While Australia continues to debate the merits of nuclear energy, our renewables transition is mired in challenges from grid integration, the social licence of transmission infrastructure, to an ever expanding environmental footprint.

We need a technology agnostic energy mix that includes all abundant energy resources. Australia sits on about 30 per cent of the world’s uranium reserves, the largest known deposits on Earth.

We are literally sitting on a key solution to our energy challenges while steadfastly refusing to use it. It is an absurd situation that would be laughable if the stakes were not so high.

We are already mining and exporting uranium overseas for other countries’ civil nuclear programs, so why not use our own resources to benefit ourselves?

World energy consumption is forecast to rise nearly 50 per cent by 2050, and conservative estimates predict that global electricity demand will nearly double. Data centres, manufacturing, electrification of transport and the industrialisation of Asia and Africa are driving energy demands that intermittent renewables simply cannot meet on their own.

Countries that recognise this reality are positioning themselves as energy superpowers of the 21st century. Those that do not will be left behind.

The American researchers I met were genuinely excited about 3D printed micro-reactors, small modular reactors, advanced fuel cycles, and Generation IV technologies.

They showcased breakthroughs that rapidly compress manufacturing and deployment timelines, and make nuclear energy the safest, most flexible form of energy ever developed. With AEMO forecasting our electricity consumption from the grid will more than double by 2050, we need all the clean energy we can get.

Nuclear energy remains the only proven technology capable of delivering large-scale, carbonfree baseload power.

Countries that have successfully decarbonised

their grids, like France, where nearly 70 per cent of electricity comes from nuclear, demonstrate how reliable, consistent nuclear power is essential to driving meaningful emissions reductions.

The momentum is undeniable. The UK is investing billions in new nuclear capacity, and countries once skeptical of nuclear power are reconsidering, as their decarbonisation challenges increase.

At COP29, 31 countries endorsed the Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy Capacity by 2050. We are in the middle of a global nuclear renaissance.

The absurdity of Australia’s position becomes pronounced when we consider recent events.

Take our Prime Minister’s recent return from New York, where he lobbied ferociously for Australia to host next year’s COP climate summit. Nuclear energy will undoubtedly be a key discussion point at this gathering.

What will Australia do when this topic hits the agenda? Recuse itself from the conversation?

Turkey certainly won’t.

Or consider the Prime Minister’s upcoming visit to meet President Trump next month.

They will discuss AUKUS and the provision of nuclear-powered submarines to Australia in a partnership that includes our government’s $12-billion investment to service these nuclear vessels in Perth. What will our Prime Minister say if President Trump raises the possibility of a civil nuclear agreement? ‘Thanks, but we are not interested’? The contradictions are staggering.

We are happy to embrace nuclear technology when it serves our defence needs, investing billions in nuclear-powered submarines, yet we refuse to consider how this same technology could transform our energy sector and help achieve our climate goals.

As Peter Malinauskas, South Australia Premier told the Energy Nation Forum last week: “We don’t achieve net-zero globally and the timelines that we want without nuclear energy playing a far bigger role.”

It is that simple. Renewables are a part of our energy mix, but they cannot provide the baseload power that our economy requires.

Battery storage, while improving, remains expensive at grid scale and cannot fill seasonal gaps in renewable generation.

The rest of the world is moving forward with nuclear technology while we stand still, hamstrung by legislation that bans nuclear power despite our massive uranium reserves and growing energy needs.

The choice is clear. We can keep exporting uranium while importing energy solutions from other countries, or we can harness our natural advantages to become a clean-energy superpower.

The nuclear technology exists. The resources exist. What we need now is the political will to act. – Mr Tehan is shadow minister for energy and emissions reduction

‘

POPULAR: Plants, giftware, live music, food, activities, displays and lifestyle features greeted visitors at Horsham Spring Garden and Lifestyle Festival’s 35th annual event at the weekend. Organiser Graham Gerlach said the event, suitably located at Horsham Botanic Gardens, featured favourites from past years, as well as some new exhibitors and performers. Pictured with their purchases are Emily Quinn, Seth Gerdtz and Peter Quinn. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Town Hall lights plan

Ararat Rural City Council has adopted what councillors termed a ‘commonsense’ approach to lighting up Ararat Town Hall after increasing requests to do so in recent months.

The council last week voted to adopt a town hall lighting policy, outlining guidelines for when and why the town hall would be lit in colours other than the usual white.

Chief executive Tim Harrison said the council had seen a growing number of individuals and community groups request the town hall be lit in colours symbolising different causes and events.

“We’ve had an increasing number of requests over the past month or so,” he said.

“On September 29 it was lit up blue for National Police Remembrance Day.

“I think it’s important we can provide that opportunity at various times but we can’t light it up every day, and we have a number of requests from people which probably get excessive in that space.

“There’s a need for us to have some process for managing those requests in a reasonable and fair way, and we’ve come up with a policy.”

The policy states that alternative colour illumination of the hall’s facade would be limited to once every 14 days, with requests to be assessed according to weighted criteria.

The criteria and their respective weighting are: the national or international significance of the event or cause, 30 per cent; its relevance to the Ararat community, 25 per cent; its consistency with council values and policies, 20 per cent; operational feasibility and frequency, 15 per cent; and visibility and impact, 10 per cent.

Residents must submit a request to light the hall in specific colours eight weeks in advance, outlining the proposed dates and colours, as well as supplying supporting evidence of the event’s significance.

If multiple requests to light the hall fall within the same 14-day period, priority will go to council-led civic or commemorative events; nationally or internationally recognised campaigns; and locally significant causes.

Cr Bill Waterson said the policy gave council clear guidelines.

“It’s good to see common sense prevail. We don’t need to light it up every day – just the special ones,” he said.

40 years of

The company hosted a birthday celebration on Thursday, with special pricing on products continuing for a month.

MILESTONE: Dennis Wade, Nola Wade, Adrian Wade, Tyleah Wade, Adam Jolley and Belinda Jolley celebrate

Wade’s in Horsham.

VNI tension rising

BY LAUREN HENRY

Thirty-nine landowners along the Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector, VNI, West project have been threatened with legal action if they oppose access to their land.

Transmission Company Victoria, TCV, began notifying landowners earlier this month about upcoming property access requirements for critical ecology surveys.

The letters, hand-delivered to landowners by a TCV representative and lawyer, outline when surveys need to occur, and the voluntary and compulsory access pathways available.

The project proposes a high-capacity double-circuit overhead transmission line that will cut across agricultural land, forming a conduit between the Western Renewables Link project at Bulgana, east of Stawell, to New South Wales.

Landholders were provided with updated advice regarding the need for survey access in their Land Easement and Access Packages, provided in July.

VNI West program director Mick Douge said the spring and summer ecology surveys involved non-invasive activities such as walkovers, photography, species identification and tree measurements.

“These surveys are essential to preparing the Environment Effects Statement, ensuring each property’s unique features, including sensitive flora and fauna, are properly considered,” he said.

“Access during this survey window is critical for VNI West to be

delivered on time, to meet Victoria’s future energy needs.”

Mr Douge said voluntary access agreements unlocked eligibility for 20 per cent of the Landholder Benefit Payment upfront – set at $46,000 per hectare – and a scaled access payment of $10,000-$50,000, depending on the area landholders make available for surveys.

“Agreeing on access isn’t a vote of support for VNI West, but what it does mean, is that access happens in a way that works best for landholders and their properties, with the least disruption possible,” he said.

But Victorian Farmers Federation president Brett Hosking – whose Quambatook farm is directly affected by the VNI West project –said landholders were given 20 business days to respond before legal action would be taken.

“I think what’s really disappointing in all of this is that there hasn’t been genuine attempts at engagement with the landholders,” he said.

“It’s true some of the landholders are resisting any engagement, but this is a process that’s been going on for two-and-a-half years now, with no attempt at meaningful engagement by AEMO or TCV.”

Mr Hosking also said the payments offered to landowners were not commercially competitive.

“I can only speak for my own compensation package that was offered to me over the 80-year lifespan of the project, and I will lose money from hosting the project through the disruption it will have to my business,” he said.

“It works out about $3000 per

tower per year. Comparable to wind turbines – we’ve had multiple companies offer to build wind turbines on our property and we haven’t said yes to anyone yet – but they range in value of $40,000 to $60,000 per year, so it’s a stark contrast.”

Mr Hosking told ACE Radio’s Country Today the project would result in restrictions on movement of machinery underneath the towers, with machinery limits of five metres – modern-day harvesters and sprayers exceed those heights.

“For me it will quite literally mean either a downsizing of my plant and equipment or of applying for permits of which the conditions I don’t know yet,” he said.

“I don’t know whether I need to have a person spotting every time I pass under the powerline with my boom spray, which you can understand how absurd that would be for five and a half kilometres of line.

“It means that I can’t crop around the base of the powerline around the towers. It may mean restrictions on livestock grazing near the towers. They may have to be fenced off. There may be access tracks. We haven’t got far enough in these conversations to know for sure.”

Mr Hosking said TCV’s decision to threaten legal action was ‘completely tone-deaf’ and would only further add to mounting opposition to the project.

“This isn’t engagement, it’s coercion. VNI West is a failed project and it’s time the government went back to the drawing board,” he said.

FitzSimons special guest

Renowned author Peter FitzSimons will be at Horsham Library on November 17 to promote his new book about Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop.

As part of a promotional tour around Australia, FitzSimons will speak at an author session, from 6.30pm to 8pm.

The bestselling non-fiction writer, journalist and columnist is the author of several successful books, including Breaker Morant, Burke and Wills, Monash’s Masterpiece, Kokoda, Ned Kelly and Gallipoli, as well as biographies on notable Australians as Sir Douglas Mawson, Nancy Wake and John Eales.

His passion is to tell Australian stories, those of great men and women, and stirring historical events is evident.

This time he has written The Courageous Life of Weary Dunlop – the story of the heroic Australian doctor whose courage and leadership were a lifeline for thousands of Australian prisoners-of-war on the Thai-Burma Railway in the Second World War.

In September 1939, the young surgeon was working in London when the dogs of war were unleashed.

Signing up, he was commissioned a captain in the Australian Army Medical Corps and sent to the Middle East, serving in Palestine, Greece, Crete, Egypt and Tobruk.

As the European war dragged on, an emboldened Japanese force captured Singapore and marched closer to Australian shores.

Weary and more than 3000 others sailed back to Java to fight the new enemy.

At the No.1 Allied General Hospital in Bandoeng, the Japanese were ready to murder the bedridden when Weary

TOUR:

and columnist

put his body in front of the bayonets. From that moment his leadership, ingenuity and selflessness became legend as Allied prisoners-of-war were sent to Singapore, Thailand and finally faced the hell of working as slave labour on the infamous Thai-Burma Railway.

FitzSimons described Weary as a gentle giant of a man.

“A boxer and former Wallaby, he could have been an elite sportsman but chose a different path – one that led him from rural Victoria to training as a pharmacist and then to medical school,” he said.

“The Second World War was the fire that fuelled this remarkable hero.

“His courageous leadership and calm endurance became beacons of hope to the POWs under his command.”

To register for the free Horsham event, people can visit wimmera libraries.vic.gov.au/events/peterfitzsimons.

Non-fiction writer, journalist

Peter FitzSimons will visit Horsham next month.

Building safe, equal and respectful communities

An expanding network

More than 50 organisations based in the Wimmera have signed up to Women’s Health Grampians’ Communities of Respect and Equality, CoRE, Alliance in a collective bid to create safe, equal and respective communities.

The alliance aims to work together across the wider Grampians region –from Ballarat to the South Australian border – aiming to prevent violence against women and gender-diverse people.

And it is looking to expand its alliance, calling for more organisations, businesses, networks, groups or clubs to join the network.

Established in 1991, Women’s Health Grampians, WHG, is one of nine regional and three state-wide women’s health services funded by the Victorian Department of Health.

WHG aims to improve women and gender diverse people’s equality, health and wellbeing in the Grampians region and beyond.

WHG chief executive Jennie Courtney said the organisation worked collaboratively with a network of partners to drive lasting change on issues that impact women, gender diverse people and their families in communities, including preventing violence, promoting sexual and reproductive health, and working towards gender equality.

The CoRE Alliance was initiated more than 10 years ago and currently has more than 130 member organisations across the region.

Within CoRE’s first four years, from 2016-2020, 120 members joined the alliance, including local governments, health, community and social services, sporting clubs, education and training providers, businesses and State Government departments.

“Women’s Health Grampians supports CoRE members to address the negative stereotypes, assumptions and attitudes that lead to discrimination, disadvantage and violence against women and gender diverse people in our workplaces, public spaces, and at home,” Ms Courtney said.

“CoRE is based on the understanding that we all have a role to play in creating safer, more respectful com-

munities where everyone can thrive. While we recognise that men are also the victims of violence and believe that no level of violence is acceptable, CoRE is firmly focussed on preventing violence against women and their children.

“This is because the data tells us that the overwhelming majority of perpetrators of family violence are men and the majority of victim-survivors are women and children.”

Wimmera-based CoRE consultant and trainer Vernetta Taylor said the program was based on the belief the reach and influence across society of its wide and diverse partnership would help to drive cultural change, reduce barriers to gender equality and re-frame cultural norms and acceptable behaviour – important steps in preventing violence against women and children.

“Members of CoRE commit to this, the CoRE strategy for preventing violence against women and their children,” she said.

“By following the guiding principles and undertaking meaningful actions to promote gender equality, they

What is CoRE?

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

Gender-based violence takes a profound and long-term toll on women’s health and wellbeing, on families and communities, and on society as a whole.

• About 1 in 4 women has experienced violence by an intimate partner.

• On average, one woman a week in Australia is killed by an intimate partner.

• 1 in 5 women has experienced sexual violence since the age of 15.

• Almost 10 women a day are hospitalised for assault injuries perpetrated by an intimate partner.

• Australian women are nearly three times more likely than men to experience violence from an intimate partner.

• 1 in 4 Australian women has experienced emotional abuse by a current or former partner.

• Children exposed to violence are more likely to have a range of health, developmental and social problems.

• Based on 2015 analysis, gender-based violence is costing Australia $21.7-billion each year.

• The Grampians region experiences high rates of family violence. In more than half the local government areas in the region, the family violence incidence rates are above the state average.

• Women living in rural areas are more likely than those in urban areas to experience family violence, and they face additional barriers to reporting and escaping abuse, including geographic isolation; limited access to services; a lack of anonymity; community members with conservative attitudes; higher levels of gun and weapon ownership; and the experience of natural disasters, which can increase the risk of family violence.

work individually and collectively to prevent gender-based violence.”

Mrs Taylor said the program was flexible and supported members to identify their best contributions. She said CoRE supported members to address five actions to reduce violence against women – challenge the condoning of violence; promote women’s independence in decisionmaking in public life and relationships; challenge rigid stereotypes and roles; strengthen equal and respectful relationships; and promote and normalise gender equality.

“CoRE membership is open to any organisation, business, partnership, network or group within the Grampians region that is willing to commit to the vision, principles and goals outlined in the CoRE Strategy,” Mrs Taylor said.

Members agree to integrate and resource relevant activities; make changes to their organisation’s planning, policies and operations; work collaboratively with other members to share knowledge, resources and ideas; and communicate on progress, insights and challenges that will help

monitor and build the capacity of the CoRE Alliance.

All CoRE members are expected to secure leadership support; have an organisation-wide CoRE action plan that evolves over time; appoint a CoRE liaison person – co-ordinator or champion; and report on progress annually.

CoRE consultants provide support through one-on-one consultations to provide expertise and tailored advice; leadership briefings to increase knowledge and organisational commitment; training programs on a variety of topics, including gender equity, prevention of violence against women, active bystanders, and intersectionality; organisation-wide programs such as Act@Work; events to build members’ capacity to implement change and provide a forum for members to share knowledge and insights; and an extensive suite of practical resources to assist organisations to take action.

For more information on CoRE, people can visit whg.org.au/ourwork/prevention-violence-women/ core.

At higher risk

Some women in the community face additional risk of violence and disadvantage.

• In comparison with other women, Aboriginal women are 32 times more likely to be hospitalised from family violence and almost 11 times more likely to be killed as a result of violent assault.

• 1 in 5 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women aged 15 and older has experienced physical violence in a 12-month period.

• 3 in 5 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have experienced physical or sexual violence by a male partner.

• Although limited, existing data and research suggests that rates of violence experienced by LGBTIQA+ people are at least comparable to that experienced by the wider female population.

• Although the types and impact of intimate partner violence have been found to be similar for same-gender relationships and heterosexual relationships, different forms of violence are sometimes used within this community.

• Some studies suggest high prevalence rates of violence against women from migrant and refugee backgrounds, and specific issues of complexity.

• Women with disabilities are more likely to experience violence than those without disability. The difference is greatest for violence by a cohabiting partner –physical and/or sexual.

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

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

Being a CoRE member is about committing to taking action.

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

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

COMMITTED: Women’s Health Grampians CoRE Alliance staff, from left, Claire Evans, Luke Baker, Vernetta Taylor, Melissa Morris and Katja Fiedler.

New faces on water boards

Two water authorities have welcomed new members to their boards, bringing new perspectives and experiences to reflect the diversity of the region.

GWMWater’s new board members Jess Adler and Stuart Read join returning board members including chair Caroline Welsh, Paul Hardy, Judith Holt, Michelle Jackson, Rod Jackson and Andrew Nicolaou.

Wimmera Catchment Management Authority also welcomes three new board members, David Jochinke, Danae McDonald and Robyn Tucker.

Returning and continuing board members include chair Peter Hilbig, Duncan Ashby, Andrew Barton, Angela Enbom and Michelle Graymore.

Water Minister Gayle Tierney last week announced the appointment of 135 board members to Victoria’s 18 water corporations, nine Catchment Management Authorities and Birrarung Council.

Ms Tierney said the directors would ensure Victoria could access affordable, reliable and high-quality water that supported growth, jobs, housing and regional communities in a drying climate.

“Strong governance keeps Victoria’s water flowing with reliable, affordable and high-quality

services that support every town and city,” she said.

“When our water boards reflect the richly diverse communities they serve, they deliver stronger results.”

Board members are selected by an independent panel that balances continuity with fresh perspectives.

More than half of all water board directors are women, with more than 60 per cent of board chairs also women, and there has also been an increase in LGBTIQA+ members and people under 35 years of age, giving younger voices and communities a stronger seat at the table.

Ms Tierney said regional Victorians continued to make up more than half of the board roles in the water sector, ensuring local knowledge and community needs are front and centre in decision-making.

The appointees join 109 existing board members in the water sector to oversee the delivery of water services and preservation of Victoria’s catchments and waterways.

For a list of board members, people can visit water.vic.gov. au/about-us/how-we-work-withwater-corporations/governanceand-planning/water-entityboard-appointments.

Performing

Arts

Company members run through final rehearsals before they hit the stage.

Into the Woods hits the stage

Stawell Performing Arts Company Inc is excited to bring the beloved musical Into the Woods to the stage later this month.

Opening on October 24, the show will run for six performances over two weekends at the Stawell Entertainment Centre.

Director Margaret Arnup said the Tony

Award-winning modern classic by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine wove together the stories of Cinderella, Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel and more, exploring what happens when wishes came true, and the consequences that followed.

Rural Australians for Refugees, Grampians-Gariwerd chapter, has secured a $4500 State Government grant for an upcoming Ararat Rural City cultural showcase lunch.

Ararat Rural City Council officials said the 2025-26 Multicultural Festivals and Events Program round-one grant supported the council’s commitment to celebrating local multiculturalism and fostering community connections through events honouring cultural identity, customs and traditions.

Representatives from Multicultural Affairs, the Victorian Multicultural Com-

Tickets cost $23 adults; $18 concession, $12 youth aged 12 to 18; and $5 for under 12s.

For more information or booking enquiries, people can contact spaci@outlook.com.

“The cast and team have been working tirelessly to create something truly magical for our community,” she said. Tickets are available via TryBooking or at Stawell Neighbourhood House.

Delivering a cultural showcase in Ararat

mission and other government-event experts assessed the council’s application and endorsed the funding, provided through the State Government’s 2025-26 Small Grants program.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the initiative would see multicultural and multifaith organisations working together to create a welcoming environment where all residents could celebrate and share their heritage.

“Ararat prides itself on creating opportunities for people to come together and share what makes this place special,” he said.

“The cultural showcase lunch is another step towards building connections, fostering understanding and celebrating the many cultures that shape our community.

“We appreciate the support from the State Government and look forward to seeing everyone join in to make the event a memorable occasion.”

Dr Harrison said the council looked forward to working with Rural Australians for Refugees Grampians-Gariwerd and other local partners to deliver the event, set to take place later this year.

REHEARSAL: Stawell

Road projects compromised

Ararat Rural City Council is calling on road-users to take greater care following extensive damage to Mount William Road, which is currently undergoing upgrade works.

Heavy vehicles, along with inappropriate road usage by drivers, are undermining council’s upgrade works, with recent inspections revealing significant wear and tear threatening both the progress and quality of the maintenance projects.

Council urges all residents, transport operators, and visitors to reconsider their driving choices when using Mount William Road, particularly during the upgrade period.

Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the upgrades aimed to deliver safer, more reliable infrastructure for the community.

“It’s disappointing to see our improvement works compromised by unnecessary damage,” he said.

“We all have a stake in the future of our local roads, and a shared responsibility to protect public assets.

“By taking a little extra care now, everyone helps create a safer, stronger network that benefits our entire region.”

Dr Harrison said council understood the inconvenience posed by roadworks, and appreciated the community’s ongoing patience and cooperation.

He reminded residents to follow signage and avoid taking heavy equipment onto Mount William Road unless absolutely necessary, ensuring quality infrastructure for generations to come.

Project updates

Ararat Rural City residents are now able to receive updates on major projects across the municipality through the council’s Engage Ararat website.

Deputy Mayor Bob Sanders said residents could provide feedback and input as well as view progress updates on projects including a Buangor-Ben Nevis Road bridge upgrade; Ararat Pony Club’s new covered sports arena; an Ararat leash-free dog park; Pomonal Hall’s battery project; and proposed naming for Prospectors Lane, Moyston.

Cr Sanders said the projects would add to the amenity and accessibility of the region while helping ensure infrastructure continued to reflect community needs.

“Projects like these show council’s ongoing commitment to quality public spaces and services,” he said.

“Whether you participate in providing feedback or simply subscribe for updates, you’re helping to ensure our region continues to thrive.”

For email notifications about new projects and opportunities to have a say, residents can sign up for the Engage Ararat e-newsletter.

People can visit engage.ararat.vic.gov.au to learn more about each project.

CARE CLOSER TO

HOME: Grampians Health staff member Joellen McPhan with patient Lainey in Horsham.

Prosthetic, orthotics expansion

Grampians Health has launched a monthly prosthetic and orthotics clinic in Stawell and Horsham, bringing specialist care closer to home.

The new clinics, which commenced in July, are part of a broader initiative to improve access to health services through collaboration across Grampians Health sites.

The prosthetic and orthotic clinic is a specialised service where patients are assessed, fitted and supported in the use of devices that either replace missing body parts – prosthetics – or assist and improve physical function – orthotics.

The clinics provide ongoing care, adjustments and rehabilitation support to help patients achieve optimal mobility, independence and quality of life.

“While we have an established prosthetic and orthotic clinic in Ballarat, our ability to share resources across our network has enabled us to extend these specialist services to Horsham and Stawell,” Grampians Health chief operating officer Ben Kelly said.

“This means patients can receive high-quality care without needing to travel long distances, which is especially important for follow-up appointments and ongoing rehabilitation.”

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They also offer long-term support for individuals following amputation or those living with neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy, many of whom require ongoing, lifelong management.

“Prior to these clinics, many patients in the region often had to travel to Ballarat for their assessment and/or review appointments,” she said.

“Now by offering care, previously provided in Ballarat, we’re helping to improve access and reduce travel burdens for our regional patients.”

Ms McAuley said the prosthetic and orthotic clinics in Horsham and Stawell were already making a difference for patients.

“We’re seeing new referrals come in and familiar faces return for follow-up care,” she said.

“It’s exciting to see the impact these clinics are having already and we’re ready to grow with the community.”

Ms McAuley said Grampians Health would continue to monitor demand and was prepared to expand the frequency of clinics if needed.

To access the clinic, patients can self-refer. Referrals from both Grampians Health staff and external healthcare providers are also welcome. All new referrals should be directed to the Ballarat Central Intake via email at centralintakereferrals@gh.org.au or by phoning 5320 6690.

Acting clinical manager of prosthetics and orthotics Karina McAuley said the clinics delivered essential prosthetic and orthotic care for a diverse patient population including children, older adults and those recovering from surgery or adapting to new devices.

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SeniorS month

PROMOTION: Horsham U3A representatives Dawn Reading and Morva Rentsch promoted the group’s activities at Horsham Plaza last week. The University of the Third Age brings people together in a variety of workshops and groups, including gardening, movie screenings, writing, history, singing, games, table tennis and tai chi. Ms Reading said she enjoyed the workshops, but the social interaction was her highlight. “The classes are a great opportunity to come out and be with like-minded people – but I think the meeting of people is the best part,” she said. “If you’re thinking about coming along but not sure, just come and have a go.” U3A membership is $50 annually, with some additional costs for some classes. People can find out more by visiting website www.horshamu3a.org.au or calling president June Liddy on 0422 509 796.

CELEBRATIONS: Seniors across the state are being celebrated with a month-long program full of free or low cost events and activities, including in the Wimmera. In Horsham, the historical society opened its doors to the community for a special event, the Silver Strings entertained at Horsham Community House and U3A promoted its many events from a stand at Horsham Plaza. Pictured are, clockwise from above: Clem Duldig and Kevin Hutchinson at Horsham Historical Society open day; Silver Strings tenor, bass guitar, mouth organist Rick Walker; U3A members Dawn Reading and Morva Rentsch at Horsham Plaza; Faye Smith and Silver Strings organiser Edith Whyatt; John Latimer and lead guitarist Bob Sloan; and Silver Strings leader Bernadette Delahunty and Trish Hogan.

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FUN TIMES: Warracknabeal Show and Operation 19:14 in Horsham have headlined the Wimmera’s family-friendly events calendar in the past week. Pictured enjoying the events are, clockwise from left: Xavier Niewand at Thursday’s Warracknabeal Show; Cooper Schache sheaf tossing at Warracknabeal Show; Beau and Belinda Mickleson at Operation 19:14 on Sunday; Kate Wills with Cameron and Liam Santuccione at Operation 19:14; Amalee Livingston, Madison Heller and Lucy Holland at Warracknabeal Show; Vaeya Williams at Operation 19:14; and centre, Sophia McFarlane makes the most of a windy day at Warracknabeal Show.

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Free activities for Children’s Week

Families can participate in a range of free activities in Stawell and St Arnaud this month as part of national Children’s Week celebrations.

The week – led by Children’s Week Council of Australia – is from October 18 to 26 and celebrates the talents, skills, achievements and rights of children.

Northern Grampians Shire Mayor Karen Hyslop said the council’s early years team had been busy preparing a calendar of events.

“We will host a range of activities across the shire and encourage families to make the most of the opportunities the week provides,” she said.

The Children’s Week theme for 2025 is ‘Everyone should know about Children’s Rights’, which promotes awareness of children’s rights under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, UNCRC.

“We encourage families to not only get out and about to participate in council-run activities, but also to consider other options such as creative play at home, educational excursions, teaching kids about their rights, and making the most of the great outdoors,” Cr Hyslop said.

The shire’s formal activities kick off on Tuesday, with a sensory pool-play session at Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre from 9am to 10am.

At 10.30am, the action shifts to Stawell Entertainment Centre for a range of multicultural activities until noon.

“There will be music, dancing, craft and play activities, along with a traditional Chinese dragon – it’s going to be a great morning and I expect it to be quite popular,” Cr Hyslop said.

“On the Wednesday, it’s St Arnaud’s turn for a multicultural adventure, with activities at the town hall from 10.30am to noon.”

The multicultural festivities are aimed at children up to five years of age.

On Thursday, October 23, St Arnaud and Stawell libraries will host special story time sessions at 10.30am.

St Arnaud’s theme is ‘Celebration of difference’, which will feature a puppet reading the book Phoebe’s Feathers.

– Karen Hyslop

The library team – and book-reading puppet – will also make a special trip to St Arnaud Kindergarten on Wednesday, October 22.

Stawell’s story time theme is ‘A Tale from the South Pacific’, which will be repeated on Friday, October 24, also at 10.30am.

“Story time is a popular event at both our libraries and our library staff love getting into the spirit of themed weeks,” Cr Hyslop said.

“St Arnaud branch will also offer a kids’ lucky dip, whenever you sign them up to the library.

Children can also colour in their own bookmarks during the week and our library staff will laminate them.

“Craft activities are popular among the region’s children.”

Cr Hyslop said a colouring competition for all age groups was run in Stawell and St Arnaud, with prizes on offer.

Councillors judged the winners yesterday and the winning entries will be displayed at the Stawell and St Arnaud town hall events.

All events are free, but RSVPs are required for the multicultural events on October 21 and 22.

People can visit forms.office.com/ r/3ryWPh5sCe to RSVP, or follow a link on the council’s Facebook page.

Local councils, not-for-profit organisations, schools and early childhood services organise a variety of events during Children’s Week each year.

People can visit childrensweek.org.au for more information.

Skate into summer at Ararat

It may be in the start of summer, but an ice rink will open in Ararat from December 12 to 14 to give people a unique, cool escape.

Ararat Rural City Council will host the community event, ‘Skate into Summer’, offering residents and visitors an opportunity to skate on ice in the heart of Ararat.

The Ararat Town Hall auditorium will be transformed to create a festive atmosphere, complete with music and lighting.

The family-friendly event will offer themed sessions for all ages and skill levels, as well as a special opening night celebration on Friday, December 12, which will feature ACE Radio, giveaways and food trucks treats.

“We are incredibly excited to bring this all-new event to Ararat,” Mayor Jo Armstrong said.

“Ararat Town Hall is a much-loved landmark, and this is a fantastic way to activate the space

and offer a fresh and fun activity for our community.

“We look forward to seeing this event not only bring people together for some summer fun but also encourage visitors to explore all that our CBD has to offer and support our wonderful local businesses.”

Tickets are now available for purchase online and a limited number of tickets will also be available at the door.

Early-bird discounts will be offered for families and group bookings.

All necessary equipment, including skates, are included in the ticket purchase.

For more information, including session times and ticket prices, people can visit ararattownhall. com.au.

FAMILY FUN: Families participate in a Teddy Bear Picnic at North Park in Stawell. Northern Grampians Shire Council has arranged a calendar of fun activities aimed at young families to celebrate Children’s Week, from October 18 to 26.

Win Win

Colouring Competition

Prepare, plan and work together

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

FA chief officer Jason Heffernan is urging people across the state to develop a fire plan, after a CFA survey showed 40 per cent of people living in bushfireprone areas did not have a bushfire plan in place.

Mr Heffernan said he was astounded that Victorians living in high bushfirerisk areas did not perceive bushfire to be a threat.

“It’s a bit of a mystery to me – we live in one of the most bushfire-prone areas in the world, but an alarming number of Victorians who live in high bushfire-risk-prone areas don’t perceive bushfire to be a threat,” he said.

“Many still believe that leaving early is not the best option and would instead stay and protect their properties, wait until they felt threatened, or received advice from authorities.

“And that’s just really telling myself that we’ve got a bit more work to do in working with the community to ensure that people have their bushfire survival plans, but also take appropriate steps to prepare their homes and themselves ahead of what is likely to be a very challenging bushfire season.”

Mr Heffernan said most homes were not built to withstand catastrophic fire conditions.

“We interview a lot of people, postlarge fires, and we quite often ask them their experience, and they share with us all the time about how they

just didn’t appreciate how large the fire was, the sound, the fact that you can’t see for smoke and how confusing it was,” he said.

“A lot of Victorians might make some of their plans in the cool light of day, but you need to think about when it’s 42 degrees outside, when the wind is 80 to 100 kilometres an hour blowing, when the sun is covered by the smoke and when embers are falling all around you.

“You can’t tell which way is up, and that’s a really dangerous situation to be in, a very confusing situation, and the worst thing you could do is not to have a plan or know what to do in those circumstances.”

Mr Heffernan said leaving early and getting out of bushfire-prone areas was always the safest option.

“During an emergency –flood, fire or weather event – usually the first thing to fail are the communication systems because they are sensitive to external impacts”

– Lindsay Barry, left

“Have your kit together so that you’ve got all the important documents and everything that you need, and in the event of a fire and you’re asked to leave – or part of your plan is to go early – get your go-bag, put it in the car, and then head off to somewhere safe,” he said.

“We want to be really clear this summer – our members will always be prepared and on hand to assist you, but fire safety is a shared responsibility, and everyone has a role to play.

“We cannot have a fire truck at every property during a major bushfire.

“We need you to do your bit too and take small steps to be more fire safe this year.”

Mr Heffernan said ‘a mountain’ of work was done in the lead-up to summer last year, before the Yarram Gap Fire in the Grampians National Park burnt 76,000 hectares of park and 13,500 hectares of farmland in December.

Sparked by lightning on December 16, it merged with other large fires and, at one stage, threatened more than 5200 homes.

“As we witnessed throughout the fires in the Grampians last season, the

Council: clean up your yard

Emergency Management Victoria has anticipated an early start to the fire season with an increased risk of fires in drought-affected areas, so now is the time for people to ensure their properties are tidy to lower their risk.

Keeping yards clear not only helps address potential fire hazards, it also ensures a fire prevention notice will not be issued.

All councils’ municipal fire prevention officers and delegates are empowered under Section 41 of the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 to proactively enter properties for inspection.

Inspections aim to identify and address potential fire hazards in order to protect life and property.

If a fire risk is identified during an inspection, the property owner may be issued with a Fire Prevention Notice.

People should cut or mow grass and weeds that are taller than 10 centimetres; clear away flammable materials around the home; clean out gutters; remove dead vegetation such as undergrowth and fallen branches; store firewood and other flammable items away from the home, sheds or outbuildings; and set up a regular maintenance schedule to keep properties fire-safe.

Alongside the risks posed by messy yards and curious critters are those presented by incorrect disposal of waste, such as contamination, pollu-

tion and exposure to hazardous materials.

Using the correct council bin and setting bin night reminders are among the basic tips to make recycling easier for residents.

For more information on rubbish removal and recycling, people can download the Horsham Rural City Council Waste App from the App Store or Google Play.

Council Acting Mayor Brian Klowss said that a messy yard could be a recipe for trouble.

“Helping protect your property against fire and other threats is everybody’s responsibility, so do the right thing and tidy up outside,” he said.

mountain of work done in the lead up to summer can make all the difference in lessening devastation on communities,” he said.

Despite its scale, no lives were lost –but four residential properties and 40 outbuildings were destroyed.

CFA assistant chief fire officer and regional commander of Grampians, Mark Gunning, said it was not down to chance.

“The successful outcome was the remarkable co-operation and shared responsibility orchestrated between local communities, CFA and other emergency services agencies,” he said.

“We need to acknowledge there were some very significant impacts in a couple of areas, however we’ve never had a fire of this size in the Western District with such minimal loss.

“That wasn’t luck. It was preparation, planning, and everyone working together. You make your own luck.”

Mr Gunning said it was vital to ensure residents in ‘watch and act’ and emergency warning areas understood that a fire truck could not be at every at-risk property.

“The response we had from the community was a prime example of shared responsibility in action,” he said.

“It only works if everyone knows their role, and this time people stepped up. Even an imperfect plan is better than no plan. The work you do before a fire starts will pay off when it arrives.”

District 17 commander Lindsay Bar-

ry said communication systems during emergency events were critical, yet they were among the first components to fail.

“During an emergency – flood, fire or weather event – usually the first thing to fail are the communication systems because they are sensitive to external impacts,” he said.

“The majority of the time communication systems are on the top of a hill, and as we know with the Grampians fire, predominantly it was in the Grampians themselves.

“When fire impacts these communication systems, there’s not a lot we can do, it’s the next steps around what we do and how we get the community back online so we can continue to put information out.”

Mr Barry said having a range of communication options, including battery-operated radios, would help keep people informed.

“Part of our information that we put out to communities, especially prior to fire season, is you need to have a number of mediums to gather information,” he said.

“The radio with the batteries in it still holds fast, but also make sure that you’re connected in your community. If you have elderly neighbours, if you live in a rural area, make sure that you’re keeping an eye on elderly neighbours, elderly parents and the like. Lives could depend on it.”

People can visit www.cfa.vic.gov. au for more information on preparing a fire plan.

All Fired Up BlazeAid grants

Eligible farmers in bushfire-prone areas can upgrade their private firefighting units, with grants of up to $10,000 from BlazeAid Australia. Grants can be used to enhance bushfire preparedness with equipment such as pumps, baffled water tanks, hoses, UHF radios, upgrades, first aid kits, and personal protective gear.

To be eligible, farmers must be known to their local CFA captain or a lieutenant; demonstrate recent bushfire impact or high risk of exposure; submit photos of current equipment, quotes for upgrades, and CFA endorsement; and attend their local CFA preseason briefings and

maintain good communication with neighbours.

Farmers can apply by emailing their application to admin@ blazeaid.com.au. Applications are open from this month until February. For more information about the grants and eligibility, people can visit blazeaid.com.au/all-firedup-grants-1.

Applications are reviewed within three business days and are assessed in collaboration with CFA representatives, who rank applicants based on reliability, safety, community engagement, and readiness. Successful applicants will be notified promptly.

your

Under the GWMWater Rural Customer Charter, rural pipeline customers must be prepared for supply interruptions of up to 72 hours (three days).

If certainty of supply is an issue, we recommend customers install a tank to maintain supply. It will also help to provide a more consistent water pressure for all users.

Property reticulation systems must be directly piped from the meter to a tank, and then directed to points-of-use such as houses and troughs.

For more information on how to design and install your on-site supply, visit gwmwater.org.au/on-farm-guide

Update your details

Make sure you have your mobile number registered with us to receive important information about your water supply such as outages. Update your details at gwmwater.org.au/update-details

Higher-risk spring season

The fire season is often paired with severe weather events, including thunderstorms, damaging winds and flash flooding.

Victoria State Emergency Service, VICSES, operations chief officer Alistair Drayton urged residents across the state to prepare for what is expected to be a higher-risk spring season.

“This spring, we’re expecting more frequent and intense storm activity across Victoria,” he said.

“Our volunteers are trained and ready to respond, but we need communities to take early action by clearing gutters, trimming trees and knowing what to do when severe weather hits. Preparedness is a shared responsibility.”

VICSES suggests people trim back trees and branches away from the home; park cars under cover or away from trees; keep gutters, downpipes

and drains clear of debris; secure outdoor furniture and trampolines; prepare emergency kits; and ensure home insurance is up to date.

Following a major weather event, people should check homes and property for damage; stay safe by avoiding hazards such as floodwater, damaged roads and fallen or damaged trees; stay away from fallen powerlines – always assume they are live; drive slowly, obey all road signs and never drive through floodwater. Call 132 500 for emergency assistance from VICSES in the event of flooding; call triple zero in life-threatening emergencies; call insurance company to organise any insurance matters; and remember to take photos of damage.

Victorians keen to learn more about how they can best prepare themselves can visit ses.vic.gov.au for practical advice and tips to act safely in the event of a storm or flood emergency.

Keep drones away from bushfires

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority, CASA, is reminding drone operators and all general aviation pilots to plan ahead and stay well clear of bushfires.

Drones must never be flown near bushfires under any circumstances, and any crewed aircraft not involved in aerial firefighting should remain at least five nautical miles, 9.26 kilo-

metres, from fire boundaries. Aerial firefighting aircraft often fly at low altitudes and may change direction suddenly, posing risks to other airspace users. Hundreds of aircraft are approved to be used in aerial firefighting with, on average, a total of 30,000 hours flown each year in firefighting operations across Australia.

ARE YOU FIRE READY?

More than meets the eye at Manhari

Clearing properties and yards of disused appliances, broken-down cars and other items can make the areas around homes easier to maintain and ensure a lower risk of fire.

Manhari Metals offers a range of services to remove and recycle many of the disused items that can accumulate on peoples’ properties.

Horsham site manager Bob Huxley said there was a raft of items Manhari Metals collected and recycled.

“We’re capable of cleaning up scrap metal, tyres of all sizes, solar panels, and more,” he said.

“Depending upon the volume, people can actually get paid for scrap metal, but charges will apply to disposing of tyres and solar panels.”

Mr Huxley said Manhari Metals could supply skip bins to peoples’

homes and offered an on-property removal service.

“We have different-sized bins we can drop at houses and residents can clean up, and we’ll come and pick it up,” he said.

“And then on the rural properties, we can either do skip bins, a bigger bin, or we can do a trailer and an excavator where we go in and pick everything up.”

Depending on the items to collect, Manhari Metals will travel as far as Bordertown, Warracknabeal and Edenhope.

They are also open six days a week for people to deliver items by car, trailer or truck.

“We take anything that’s recyclable – batteries, lead, electric motors, compressors, fridges, solar panels,

PVC-coated copper wiring, all sorts of things. Anything that’s got metal in it, we’ll take,” Mr Huxley said.

“This particular depot is really just a transfer station. We gather the material, we sort the material, and then we ship it to Melbourne, or we ship it back to Ararat to be processed – everything is recycled properly.

“And depending on the amount and the metals, people can make some money. Of course, there are differences in value between the likes of roofing iron and copper, a bit like the difference between diamonds and rocks, but they can give us a call to find out their options.”

People can call Manhari Metals on 5381 0443 to find out more about items that are accepted for recycling at its Horsham site.

PREPARING FOR BUSHFIRE SEASON

Last fire season was one of the busiest the Wimmera has ever seen, with large fires impacting the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and Little Desert National Park

This year’s spring seasonal outlook has indicated an increased risk of fire for drought affected areas across the south west, west and central areas of Victoria, as well as south west Gippsland

You can prepare for bushfires by learning about Fire Danger Ratings and creating a personal fire plan

Go to vic gov au/plan-and-prepare to learn more and access an online fire planner

Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) has a team of full-time and seasonal firefighters across the Wimmera, ready to respond to bushfires

FFMVic also conducts fuel management including planned burning to reduce bushfire risk to communities and the environment

To find out more and register for planned burn notifications visit plannedburns ffm vic gov au

OPPORTUNITIES: Manhari Metals site manager Bob Huxley.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Haystack safety plea this season

Hay season has begun in the west and north-west parts of the state, and farmers are being urged to take extra care in preventing haystack fires.

In the past financial year, CFA responded to 73 haystack and hay shed fires in regional areas, with 53 per cent of those in the west and northwest of the state.

Haystack fires are often caused by spontaneous combustion when hay is baled with excess moisture. High moisture levels, combined with the compact nature of hay bales, can create internal heat, leading to ignition.

Buloke West group officer and farmer David Manifold said there were many factors that could lead to a haystack fire.

“What goes wrong is essentially hay is baled at a high moisture, or what we have learned in recent times is leaving the hay out for longer to dry, can actually increase the growth of yeast and moulds on the hay,” he said.

“The yeast and mould levels can get so high that any ingression of water is as good as throwing a match on it.”

Mr Manifold said he was using both new and old technologies to reduce the risk of haystack fires at his farm.

“We are using new techniques on the machinery side to get our window shorter for bailing in sub-seven days, which is the key to keeping the yeasts and moulds lower,” he said.

“We run plastic over the flooring, which stops moisture from coming up into the

hay and prevents damage to the hay, but also prevents the risk of water ingression, particularly in heavy rainfall periods during summer.”

Mr Manifold said the shed’s water downpipes were well-maintained.

He said he also used a new type of temperature probe that sent temperature data to a central bay station on the farm.

“I can check the temperature on an app on my phone at any given moment,” he said.

“I can also get it to send me alerts. I have it set to alert me if we reach 40 and 50 degrees.”

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said early preparation and proper storage are essential in reducing the risk of haystack fires.

“With a large number of haystack fires in the past financial year, the impact on farmers and their livelihoods is clear,” he said.

“Haystack fires can have far-reaching effects beyond individual properties, impacting neighbouring farms and emergency services.

“Make sure you store your hay in separate stacks or in sheds away from farm equipment and other buildings to prevent the spread of fire.

“Farmers need to ensure they’re wellprepared – regular monitoring can prevent a small issue from becoming a much larger one.”

For more information, people can visit CFA’s website for advice on haystack safety.

Summer safety sorted

Being prepared for the fire season can go beyond mowing, clearing and having an emergency plan in place.

Many landholders maintain their own private firefighting units, which can include pumps to draw water from tanks and dams, as well as pumps and hoses to use during firefighting operations.

Horsham’s Total Tools owner Stuart Hobbs said he stocked a range of pumps, hoses and fittings, with more equipment available to order.

“We have the ability to do kits to start people off, or they

can just come and get individual hoses and cam locks and fittings,” he said.

“We keep standard twin impeller firefighting pumps, we have trash pumps as well to move water – all sorts of things to do with being fire-ready.

“We stock a couple of different brands of pumps, we have Saber and we can get Aussie pumps as well.

“There is a range of tanks and more equipment on our website that people can order, but people can come and see us and we can work out what they might require.”

Mr Hobbs said Total Tools stocked a range of personal protective equipment, including goggles and P2 masks, and had a range of garden tools.

“We keep yard maintenance equipment such as blowers, whipper snippers, chainsaws, hedge trimmers, all things to tidy up around the house, as well as a basic range of weed sprayers,” he said.

“We can help people with all their fire-safety needs, from weed prevention and yard maintenance, to firefighting.”

FIRE READY: Salesman Karl Carmen with some of the range of firefighting equipment available at Total Tools Horsham.

Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

KEEP THEM SAFE WITH:

Sunday 26 October – 10am-noon:

DUNKELD HLTAID009 Provide CPR

Sunday 26t October – 10am-4pm: DUNKELD HLTAID011 Provide First Aid

Wednesday 5 Nov –10.30am-4.30pm: HORSHAM HLTAID011 Provide First Aid

Thursday 6 Nov – 10.30am-4.30pm:

HORSHAM HLTAID011 Provide First Aid

Sunday 9 November – 10am-4pm:

HORSHAM HLTAID011 Provide First Aid

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

Mandatory to have a USI number to attend the course. Kneeling for 2 minutes on the ﬂoor to perform CPR is a mandated requirement.

Support goes both ways

CFA’s Ebenezer and Lowan groups of fire brigades have shared $1800 raised at Hindmarsh Shire Council’s post-fire event at Dimboola.

The Community Thank You Concert recognised the efforts of the town’s people during the Little Desert National Park fires in January, particularly its volunteer firefighters and emergency services personnel.

Mayor Ron Ismay presented group officers Russell Hunter, from Ebenezer, and Lowan’s Peter Duperouzel cheques of $900 each, raised with an auction and barbecue at the concert.

Ebenezer group officer Russell Hunter, whose group consists of Dimboola, Antwerp, Tarranyurk, Detpa, Gerang Gerung and Jeparit brigades, said the money would

go towards further training opportunities for its volunteers.

“The $900 from Hindmarsh Shire is greatly appreciated,” he said.

“It will be used for training exercises for our whole group, and potentially part of it will go towards resources and appliances further down the track.”

Cr Ismay said the January 27 fire was impactful on residents in several communities.

“We all remember the impact the fire had on Hindmarsh’s residents, particularly those in Dimboola, Winiam, Nhill and districts,” he said.

“It has been said many times before, that if it wasn’t for the selfless acts of the hundreds of CFA volunteers and emergency services personnel who came to assist in fighting the fire, who knows what the extent of damage

to private and public lands and infrastructure, livestock, native flora and fauna would have been.

“Additionally, and thankfully, there was no loss of life or severe injuries to any of our firefighters or residents.”

CFA’s District 17 has more than 80 brigades, including Lowan’s Nhill, Winiam, Diapur, Broughton, Propodollah, Yanac, Netherby, Lorquon and Woorak, and Ebenezer’s six.

“All members of these brigades are volunteers and many of them had families evacuated, or had their own farms and properties under threat, while helping to save others during the fire,” Cr Ismay said.

“For the selfless acts and commitment by members we will be forever grateful – thank you.”

Register your burn

As people prepare their properties for fire season, emergency services are urging landowners to register their burn-offs online at the Fire Permits Victoria website. Spring is a common time for landowners to take advantage of the favourable weather conditions to burn off, however in most areas in Victoria, less than 50 per cent are registering their burn-offs online.

In some areas where the highest number of burn-offs are registered each year, as many as 60 per cent of registrations are by phone, leading to longer wait times during busy periods.

Before registering a burn, residents should: follow regulations or laws by CFA and local council; notify neighbours if the burn will generate significant flames and smoke; check the weather forecast for the day of the activity and a few days afterward; postpone activity if high fire risk conditions develop; establish a gap in vegetation or fire break of no less than three metres cleared of all flammable material; and have enough people to monitor, contain and extinguish the burn safely and effectively – never leave a burn-off unattended.?

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said the Fire Permits Victoria website was the preferred platform for community members to register their burns.

“By registering your burn-off, it allows emergency services to verify the fire is not an emergency before unnecessarily calling out local brigades,” he said.

“It also allows us to display burn-offs on the CFA website so the public can see where a burn-off is taking place, preventing needless calls to Triple Zero.

“Over the past year, CFA responded to nearly 900 escaped burn-offs, which utilised about 19,000 hours of our volunteers’ time. Please don’t leave your burn-off unattended and only burn-off when conditions are favourable.”

The website allows people to notify emergency services of a burn-off, and also check and apply for a permit, if necessary. However, if a burn is taking place within the next two hours, people must register their burn via the phone line on 1800 668 511.

For more information about burning off safely, people can visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/burnoff, and to register a burn-off, visit www.firepermits.vic.gov.au/notify.

THANK YOU: Hindmarsh Shire councillors Chan Uoy, James Barry and Rosie Barker, Ebenezer group officer Russell Hunter, Mayor Ron Ismay, Lowan group officer Peter Duperouzel, Cr Roger Aitken, chief executive Monica Revell and Cr Tony Clark.

ARE YOU FIRE READY?

installed in 2019, has reached the end of its life. Northern Grampians Shire Council is working with community groups to rehome salvageable parts of the project within Halls Gap.

Art wall to be decommissioned

The Halls Gap Art Wall, a temporary artwork that has captivated visitors and residents for the past six years, is to be removed.

Northern Grampians Shire Council resolved last week it would remove the artwork after receiving complaints about its deterioration.

Installed in 2019 and featuring work by talented regional artists, the piece was funded by the council and delivered by the former Halls Gap Tourism.

Mayor Karen Hyslop said the artwork was only meant to be temporary and had done well to last six years.

Cr Hyslop said since its installation, the art wall had served as a significant point of interest in Halls Gap, offering a unique experience that sparked thought, discussion and appreciation of public art.

“The artwork has been fabulous, but with the base panels showing irreparable signs of deterioration, it no longer represents the quality of our local artists or the pride of our township,” she said.

“Considerable consultation with the artists and the local community has helped inform the decision to remove the wall.”

Cr Hyslop said while community engagement initially revealed support to retain the existing base structure and create a new artwork, further consultation with key groups – including Halls Gap Community Association and Halls Gap Recreation Reserve Committee of Management – provided a different direction.

“Following conversations prompted by council’s community engagement regarding the fu-

“After discussion, the sub-committee felt that retaining the existing structure would limit opportunities for new artwork and alternative uses of the space, as well as for public art elsewhere in town. They therefore support its removal”

– Karen Hyslop

ture of the art wall, a sub-committee featuring members of these two groups was formed,” she said.

Cr Hyslop said council staff would work with stakeholders to rehome salvageable elements of the art wall, with the aim of giving them a new life at a site within Halls Gap, potentially in a park or garden.

“Rehoming these elements will ensure the spirit and creativity of the original work continues to inspire the community,” she said.

“Council is grateful to the artists and community members who contributed to the creation of the Halls Gap Art Wall, which was originally intended as a temporary installation.

“The recent community engagement surrounding the wall’s future has revealed some great new arts and culture ideas that are brewing in the community, and council is working to support the enthusiasm and momentum that is currently building in Halls Gap.”

Long-term sustainability focus

Northern Grampians Shire Council submitted financial reports for 2024-25 to the Victorian Auditor-General’s Office after giving them inprinciple approval at an unscheduled council meeting last month.

The financial statements and performance statement form part of the preparation of the council’s 2024-25 annual report.

The Auditor-General will review the documents and recommend any necessary changes before they are officially adopted.

Cr Jenny Greenberger encouraged residents of the municipality to read over the reports.

“I commend them to those who would like to read them and I am very comfortable to propose that these reports are in a very good state to now proceed to send them to the Auditor-General,” she said.

The council’s 2024-25 annual financial report, contained in the minutes of the September 15 meeting, showed a $29,935,000 total comprehensive result, with total equity of about $510million.

In a draft 2024-25 annual report also contained in the minutes, Mayor Karen Hyslop said the council was determined to continue managing its finances responsibly.

“While this report details a raft of achievements and infrastructure highlights, it is important to reiterate that moving forward, our budgeting for 2025-26 has a strong focus on financial viability and long-term sustainability,” she said.

“Our next chapter has been influenced by a range of factors including a small population base from which to generate rate income; reduced funding opportunities from state and federal governments; and cost of living pressures.

“Despite entering a ‘business as usual’ mode, we will continue to work hard to ensure Northern Grampians Shire is a wonderful place to live, work, invest and visit.”

People can view the draft financial and annual plan documents by visiting docspublished.com. au/ngshire and clicking on the September 15 unscheduled meeting.

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

Phoenix Animal Rescue, Carolyn Stow:

We received $1000 which we were really grateful for. It went towards purchasing a large front load washing machine, which is much in need. Obviously, fostering lots of animals, we have a lot of bedding that needs to be kept clean and hygenic. We make sure that our animals are ﬁt and healthy, so keeping the kittens and puppies clean when they are learning to toilet train can get a bit messy, before they are adopted out.

The application was really easy to do, very simple, and the team at Horsham Sports & Community Club were fantastic to work with. We would deﬁnitely apply for a grant again.

REHOMING: The Halls Gap Art Wall,

for private functions of all sizes –from intimate gatherings to large celebrations

Lush lawns, gorgeous vines under the verandah, our indoor or outdoor spaces can cater for 6 to 300 people plus ample free parking.

Christmas party, milestones, fun run, community event or ag exhibition Warracknabeal Racing Club have the space to cater for all your needs.

Contact: warracknabeal@countryracing.com.au

OPEN 11:30AM

board chair

Cam Evans and board director

Megan Shea present Val Albert with her award for 45 years’ volunteer service to Willaura Health Care Auxiliary.

Val awarded for 45 years’ volunteering

Grampians Health Service has recognised the work and support of its 150 volunteers at the 20th Volunteer Service Recognition Awards, including 45 years’ service by Val Albert.

At the awards, 32 volunteers were recognised for five, 10, 15, 20 and 45 years.

EGHS has 150 volunteers who work across a range of areas including 70 Lowe Street, Garden View Court, Meals on Wheels, Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay, Patricia Hinchey Centre, Red Cross, consumers on EGHS committees, and four auxiliaries, the Ark Toy and Activity Library, EGHS Auxiliary, Residents’ Support Group and the Willaura Health Care Auxiliary.

Mrs Albert has been a dedicated member of the Willaura Health Care Auxiliary and has been relied upon to help in a variety of ways – always doing so cheerfully and without fuss. She goes out of her way to help and is always there to lend a hand at working bees, the Willaura Market and anywhere else she can be useful. Her home-baking is legendary, and she generously provides items for the auxiliary’s many fundraisers.

EGHS board chair Cam Evans said Mrs Albert’s kind nature and selflessness made everyone feel cared for, and she in turn was much appreciated by her community.

“Congratulations Val on your volunteering efforts and being committed to the Willaura Health Auxiliary for 45 years,” he said.

Twenty-year service awards were presented to Kate Connellan, Bernie Perovich, Margie Kilpatrick, Michele Brady and Therese Jess from the EGHS Auxiliary and Annie Gellert from Willaura Health Care Auxiliary.

Guest speaker at the awards was Bushfire Recovery facilitator Martina Holland, who spoke about the importance of volunteers and community when disaster strikes.

The event was emceed by volunteer co-ordinator Hannah Jennings and attended by EGHS executive, staff and volunteers and hosted by Mr

Volunteer awards

45 years – Val Albert, Willaura Health Care. 20 years – Bernie Perovich, Kate Connellan, Margie Kilpatrick, Michele Brady, Therese Jess, all EGHS Auxiliary; Annie Gellert, Willaura Health Care Auxiliary.

15 years – Jan Pope, friendly visiting; Judy Wohlers, Red Cross and Meals on Wheels; Cheryl Hurnall and Marilyn Fisher, Red Cross; Meike Hunt, Residents’ Support Group.

10 years – Anne Hedgeland, Daphne Lewis, Denise Calvert, Di Pickering, Elaine Thornbury, Heather Hevey, Mary Stapleton, Meredith Barr, Ark Toy and Activity Library; Carole McGregor, Oncology and Ark Toy and Activity Library; Ross McGregor, Patricia Hinchey Centre; Christina Van Straaten, EGHS Auxiliary; Ken McCready, Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay; Rodney McClurg, Patricia Hinchey Centre; Chris Doak and Margaret Spong, Residents’ Support Group.

5 years – Bo Munro, Marg Cain, Ark Toy and Activity Library; Daryl Lowerson, Garden View Court; Merilyn Wallis, Palliative Care; Joan Fitzpatrick and Sandra Dickeson, Residents’ Support Group.

Evans, with awards presented by board directors Cam Evans and Megan Shea.

EGHS chief executive Nick Bush paid tribute to the many volunteers who work across many different areas of the health service.

“Our extraordinary volunteers are an integral part of our EGHS community, and we are here to celebrate their outstanding efforts,” Mr Bush said.

“Volunteers dedicate countless hours to enrich the lives of our patients, residents and consumers and our staff appreciate their support.

“They provide comfort and care to those in need, and this does not go unnoticed. They have become part of the fabric of East Grampians Health Service.

“Congratulations to all our long service award recipients.”

New to mar ket

WM has confirmed its luxury sub-brand, Wey, will enter the Australian market next year with a line-up centred on plug-in hybrid powertrains.

The Chinese brand has deliberated for several years over whether to introduce Wey to Australia, alongside existing sub-brands Haval, Tank, Cannon and Ora, but GWM executives now say conditions are right.

With a range of premium plug-in hybrid, PHEV, models, GWM Australia believes Wey will be well-placed to respond to growing demand for plugins as a halfway house between combustion engines and full EVs.

GWM Australia head of marketing Steve Maciver told GoAuto Wey would be plug-in.

“We are pretty confident with the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard scenario we are facing, that we are going to see an increased share of plug-in hybrids,” he said.

“It is going to have to happen, and we are betting pretty big on it.”

Pronounced ‘way’, the premium marque takes its name from Great Wall Motors’ chairman, Wei Jianjun –officially Anglicised as Jack Wey. Australian media including GoAuto

was invited to sample the Wey Gaoshan luxury people-mover at the Lang Lang Proving Ground in Victoria last week.

The evaluation vehicles carry GWM Wey G9 badging, believed to preview the local naming philosophy for the model.

As for arrival timing of the Wey brand, Mr Maciver said there was ‘a good chance you are going to see it next year’.

Initial plans for Wey’s SUV models to be absorbed by GWM’s mainstream Haval SUV sub-brand have been shelved in favour of establishing Wey as yet another vertical within the brand’s co-mingled showrooms.

Wey is expected to be positioned above Haval and alongside Tank within the portfolio.

At least two Wey models are under active assessment for Australia.

Alongside the G9 luxury van, GWM is also evaluating the Wey Blue Mountain SUV for right-hand drive markets, with a third model, possibly the Mocha mid-sized SUV, being studied for launch.

Both the G9 and Blue Mountain are built exclusively in China with PHEV engines, though both are based on

GWM’s outgoing plug-in powertrain architecture. However, one or both may be updated with GWM’s newgen Hi4-Z high-performance PHEV system in the near future.

The G9 minivan combines a 1.5-litre turbo petrol four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to deliver system output of 358kW/762Nm while promising an EV-only driving range of about 140km.

Meanwhile, the Blue Mountain employs a similar 1.5T/dual-motor PHEV configuration, but the SUV raises the output cap to 380kW/933Nm while

matching the G9’s 140km EV range and offering an overall driving range exceeding 1000km.

Mr Maciver hinted that Hi4-Z, GWM’s newer-gen PHEV system that offers more power, up to 200km electric range, and an especially responsive electrified AWD system, could be the right fit for the Blue Mountain.

“It will give you increased performance and increased electric range on-road, so it could be a good option for us,” he said.

Should the Hi4-Z PHEV system be selected for the Blue Mountain, the

GWM has confirmed its Wey sub-brand will be sold in Australia.

hybrid SUV’s outputs could climb as high as 635kW/1195Nm.

Despite Wey’s planned upmarket positioning, GWM insists Australian pricing will remain relatively accessible compared to rivals.

“Comparing what other brands may be doing in the minivan space at six figures, we don’t believe that is where the vehicle should be priced for us,”

Mr Maciver said.

“We don’t know exactly what that price looks like, but we are pretty confident we are not going to be at six figures.”

Hyundai EV prices slashed

Hyundai has announced it will cut up to $34,142 from the national driveaway price of its slow-selling electric vehicle range, including stocks of new vehicles that are now up to two years old.

While the Korean importer has not stated how many vehicles would be discounted, it has marked down the price of models including the Kona Electric, Inster, Ioniq 5, and Ioniq 6 by a considerable margin.

The entry-segment Inster Standard Range is offered from $39,990, a discount of $3320; the Extended Range from $42,990, $3925 less; and the Inster Cross from $45,990, a discount of $3540.

For the Kona Electric Standard Range, the driveaway price of $49,990 represents a $9189 saving for prospective buyers.

A similar discount is applied to the Ioniq 5 Standard Range, which is now available from $65,990, a saving of $9779.

But it’s the awkwardly styled Ioniq 6 that receives the largest price cut.

MY23 plated Ioniq 6 Dynamic variants are now available from $49,990, a discount of $27,564 on the regular driveaway price.

The MY23 Ioniq Techniq is now offered from $54,990 driveaway, a saving of $33,589, while the range-topping Ioniq Epiq – which is also MY23 plated – is now $59,990 driveaway, a dis-

count of $34,142. While heavy discounting does impact the value of vehicle models purchased at full price, it does offer buyers seeking to purchase a new vehicle the opportunity to enter the market at a considerable cost advantage.

Speaking with GoAuto last week, a dealer source said such drastic price cuts were something of a double-edged sword, devaluing a fullprice purchase for consumers and lowering used car values for dealers.

“Heavily discounted new cars negatively impact owners who purchase them early at full price, experiencing a significantly lower resale value due to depreciation, while owners who later purchase at discounted rates benefit from lower costs but may face higher competition for deals,” he said.

“High new car inventory and price reductions, especially for EVs, also increase the supply of used cars, further driving down their value and potentially hurting the resale prospects of earlier buyers.

“The most significant impact is on owners who bought their cars before widespread discounts were offered. They will suffer the largest resale value loss when selling the vehicle, as the market price is now lower than what they originally paid.”

Ford debuts Ranger Raptor desert pack

Ford Australia has announced a limitededition accessory package for its high-performance Ranger Raptor dual-cab ute that offers Trophy Truck inspired lighting and visuals from $5990.

Taking design cues from Ford’s entrants in the Finke Desert Race, and in co-operation with offroad equipment manufacturer ARB, the Ranger Raptor desert pack offers 500 purchasers an ARB sports bar, ARB Nacho Quatro light set on their own purpose-build roof bar, all-weather floor mats, and exclusive desert park decals.

Ford says the ARB sports bar and roof-mounted Nacho Quatro lamps would remain exclusive to the desert pack until all 500 units were sold, after which they would become individual accessories available through Ford dealers.

Ford Australia marketing director Ambrose Henderson said the Ranger Raptor had proven itself in the toughest conditions imaginable, setting records at Finke in the Stock Class com-

petition and demonstrating genuine, real-world, desert racing capability.

“The desert pack celebrates that racing heritage while delivering the authentic off-road enhancements that our most enthusiastic customers have been asking for,” he said.

“By partnering with ARB, we are bringing that same spirit of extreme performance to customers who demand that little bit extra capability and style from their Raptor.”

Mr Ambrose said that while the factory-fit power roller-shutter offered on the Ranger Raptor was not compatible with the desert pack, the real truck power roller-shutter – previously mountain top – could be fitted and was available through Ford Accessories as an option.

The Ranger Raptor desert pack is available on MY26 Ranger Raptor models and is available to order now.

Production begins this month with vehicles expected to arrive nationally in the coming months.

MOVING ON: Slow-selling Hyundai EVs and MY23 plated Ioniq 6 stock has been heavily discounted.

Dacia Hipster BEV turning heads

Renault

sub-brand Dacia has used a media event in Meudon, outside Paris, to showcase future models including one that struck a chord, the Hipster concept BEV that may be on the agenda from the Romania-based manufacturer.

Dacia says the pint-size boxy minicar ‘is starting with a blank slate to invent the popular EV of tomorrow’.

The model has high significance as it has been described as a ‘good fit’ for the upcoming European E-car regulations that are designed to encourage affordable made-in-Europe mobility.

Not a new formula by any stretch, Dacia’s new chief executive Katrin Adt, formerly with Mercedes-Benz and Smart, said the rudimentary twodoor Hipster ‘points the way toward Dacia’s mission of being the leader in affordable mobility’.

“The Hipster is our response to the mobility crisis in Europe,” she said, while also calling attention to the fact that ‘cars have become more expensive, heavier and burdened by regulations in the last 15 years’.

A bit like the old-school Mini Moke, the Hipster is 3000mm long, has an upright windscreen, is made of lowcost materials, and is said to be easy to manufacture.

As expected, Renault says it ‘harks back to the Citroen 2CV and other

FORMULA:

inexpensive but distinctive cars meant to provide mobility for the masses, such as the first-generation Fiat Panda or Mini’.

Corresponding with the appearance of the Dacia Hipster, the European Commission said it was considering creating separate regulations for small electric vehicles, an idea backed by Renault Group and Stellantis.

An Automotive News Europe report detailed a commission working group was studying proposals, and

details could be released as soon as December as part of the commission’s strategic dialogue on the future of the European automotive industry.

One of the goals of such regulations would be to allow automakers to sell a small EV built in Europe for as low as €15,000 – $A26,566 – and make a profit doing so. Currently, the least expensive European-built EV is the Citroen e-C3, which starts at €19,600 before incentives.

According to the report, Dacia de-

sign chief David Durand said the Hipster was purely a concept, but it could potentially be adapted to a small-carspecific regulation.

It was designed to be lightweight and inexpensive to produce, with plastic body panels, seats that use tensioned fabric rather than padding and minimal interior equipment.

It is built on a tube frame, however, rather than a Renault Group platform.

If it goes ahead, the Hipster would feature the extensive use of recycled

material and would be in only one exterior colour, with trim and accessories allowing for personalisation. Size-wise, it is 300mm longer than a Smart ForTwo and 700mm shorter than a Dacia Spring, bringing it close to the four seat Toyota iQ.

The four-seat Hipster positions occupants nearly shoulder-to-shoulder in each row and with the rear seat folded down, cargo capacity is 500 litres with space for a small suitcase in the front righthand foot well.

Ms Adt said it was a logical question to ask if the Hipster could appear as a production car.

“We’re developing an audacious vision,” she said.

“We have all the tools in Renault Group to make this a reality. We will watch the market carefully.”

Other Hipster details GoAuto has been able to glean include wheels at each corner, minimal overhang, sliding glass windows, bench front seat, fabric mesh upholstery, and fold flat second row seats. No information is offered as to its powertrain or battery, nor which axle is driven.

Dacia says the Hipster’s driving range had ‘sufficient range for daily journeys with the need to recharge just twice a week’, speculated to be around 150km.

– Peter Barnwell

TaKE a BrEaK

On This Day

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: October 13, 2005 –Olympic gold medallist Russell Mark gave world-class advice to Stawell Chamber of Commerce and Industry secretary Rhian Davidson during a VIP shoot at Stawell Clay Target Complex. Mark was in Stawell as a guest of the Pyrenees Business Awards and spoke to a packed Stawell Entertainment Centre audience.

10 years ago: October 14, 2015

Wimmera residents Maddi Ostapiw and Loucas Vettos were set to launch a project with the aim of securing a specialised mental health worker for the region’s gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex community. Wimmera Pride Project’s aim was to educate people of the issues people in the GLBTI community faced. The launch, at Horsham Centre Cinemas, featured a screening of Australian film ‘Holding the Man’, based on the memoir of Australian actor, writer and gay activist Tim Conigrave.

Five years ago: October 14, 2020

Rock-climbing enthusiasts joined Natimuk arts community for a virtual version of the annual GoatFest Film Festival. The Easter event typically attracted climbers from across the country, but was postponed due to COVID-19 restrictions on social gatherings.

One year ago: October 16, 2024

Rural Northwest Health was a step closer to re-opening its Hopetoun urgent care centre following the receipt of a $1.25-million grant to build accommodation for skilled workers. The three housing projects to attract workers to the Wimmera Mallee received money from the State Government’s $150-million Regional Worker Accommodation Fund.

1. Born on this day in 70 BC was which Roman poet who also appeared in Dante’s Divine Comedy?

2. What song is known for appearing at the end of the film ‘Fight Club’?

3. What is the only country in the world to have a national flag that does not include any of the colours red, white or blue?

4. Who said: “If you want a thing done well, do it yourself?”

5. What was the name of Nirvana’s debut studio album released in 1989?

6. What was the name of Marie Curie’s husband who helped her discover the elements of polonium and radium?

7. Euler’s number is a mathematical constant represented by which character?

8. Two words are considered homophones when they are spelt differently but pronounced the same. What is it called when two words share a spelling but differ in pronunciation?

9. What is the capital of the American state of New York?

10. What was the first non-English-language film to win best picture at the Oscars?

Brought to you by

WITH KAYLA Weekdays, 9am until noon on

yOUr LUCKy sTars

FOR THE WEEK OCTOBER 19 TO OCTOBER 25

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Friday

Answers: 1. Virgil. He wrote the epic, ‘The Aeneid’ which follows the story of Rome’s mystical founder and was left 60 lines short due to his premature death. He is also known for appearing in the divine comedy as Dante’s guide through the after-life. 2. Where is my mind, by the Pixies. 3. Jamaica. In 2017, Jamaica became the only country in the world to not include red, white or blue in its flag when -Mauri tania added red bars on the top and bottom of its flag. 4. Napolean Bonaparte. 5. Bleach. 6. Pierre Curie. 7. A lower-case ‘e’ is the most common representation for Euler’s number. 8. ‘Heteronyms’ are two or more words that share a spelling but aren’t pronounced the same. 9. Albany. Despite sharing a name with its largest city, New York’s capital is Albany due to its central position in the state. 10. Parasite. Getting in

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

For classified advertisements: 5382 1351 – email: horsham@aceradio.com.au

Advertising: Mark Sulic: 0407 313 456, marks@team.aceradio.com.au; Lee Meadows: 0407 046 864, leem@team.aceradio.com.au; Kelly Schilling: 0437 894 257, kschilling@aceradio.com.au; Danica Cutter: 0488 473 562, dcutter@aceradio.com.au; Heidi Higginson: 0438 759 220, heidih@aceradio.com.au; Lily Olver: 0411 784 001, lolver@aceradio.com.au Newsroom 5382 1351: Lauren Henry: lhenry@aceradio.com.au; Bronwyn Hastings: bhastings@aceradio.com.au; Colin MacGillivray: cmacgillivray@aceradio.com.au; Georgia Bailey: georgiab@team.aceradio.com.au

Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 2, 5

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 26, 36, 30, 33

You may feel overly emotional, making it difficult to make rational decisions. Postpone major issues for now, and avoid making promises you may struggle to keep.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 3, 2, 6, 5

Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 25, 45, 40, 9

An opportunity you missed in the past may return, giving you a chance to succeed. Improvements in your love life are likely, and someone special may surprise you.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 4, 5, 2, 1

Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 26, 9, 22, 1

Encouraging news in your career could boost your morale. Be mindful of overindulgence – it could affect your health. Watch for someone who may become a significant presence in your life.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Fawn

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 2, 1

Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 26, 36, 39, 5

This could be one of your happiest weeks of the year. Your sparkling personality will attract people to you, and unexpected luck may come in surprising ways.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 4, 6, 2, 1

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

You may receive unexpected help from someone in a high position. During this period, a long-held wish could come true, bringing joy and fulfilment.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 2, 1

Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 26, 25, 40, 44

Increased responsibilities may require you to postpone romantic plans. However, your patience will pay off, and you’ll be rewarded.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 1, 5

Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 26, 25, 28, 7

There are better times to engage in group activities. Wait for renewed energy and interest before starting something new. Improvements in health and wellbeing are likely.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 9, 5

Lotto Numbers: 5, 6, 12, 23, 36, 39

Positive developments with trusted friends will brighten your week. You may assist someone out of a tricky situation. Unexpected business success could also lead to increased income.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 5, 6

Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 26, 36, 30, 45

Taking a break may be just what you need. Overworking yourself could lead to fatigue. This is an emotional period, so avoid snap judgments.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 2, 1

Lotto Numbers: 2, 13, 20, 30, 11, 15

It’s time to let go of outdated ideas and start afresh. Before signing essential documents, ensure you understand the details and seek professional advice.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Purple

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 6, 2, 3, 1

Lotto Numbers: 6, 12, 23, 30, 22, 29

If someone has disappointed you, exercise caution to avoid a repeat. Be open to kindness from others, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed – it’s often a wise choice.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 2, 1

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 26, 36, 30, 44

If you’re feeling unwell, seek treatment to prevent further complications. Sometimes, rest is as rejuvenating as a holiday. Financial improvements are on the horizon.

^ _ ` a b c d e f g h i

Celebrating 50 Years in Business!

Bevanart

names.

From humble beginnings as a brush-and-paint signwriter working from a shed at 38 Dollar Avenue, Horsham, Bevanart moved to 142 Firebrace Street in the early 1980s, with a combination of a disposals store specialising in military equipment and 4WD accessories. A factory building was purchased in the late 1980s at 9 Madden Street, opposite the then-Horsham saleyards, and is still the current location of the business. The factory underwent major renovations and extensions in the early 2000s to allow for the installation of new digital printing equipment.

Bevanart has seen some changes in the signage industry in the past 50 years, with the initial brushand-paint method evolving into vinyl graphics. This involved using a vinyl plotter and software, where limited fonts were available, through to now providing full eco-friendly solvent digital printing technology.

Bevanart is a local, family-run business, with Hart and Bev’s two sons Justin and Brad continuing the family tradition of the signage business. Justin started in 1993 and Brad in 1999.

With a purpose-built facility offering a wide range of services including three digital printers, CNC router technology and the ability to provide a wide range of signage services, the team at Bevanart Signs look forward to many more years in business, providing the highest standard of signage for the Wimmera area.

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

Quick Workout

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

Note

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

Classifieds

ALTMANN-ROLL

(nee Henman), Rhonda Joy on October 8th, 2025

Loved Wife of Kevin (dec)

A Loved Mother, Ganny & Gran Gran to her families.

BAKER (nee Clyne), Nola

Passed away on 7 October 2025 aged 86 Years.

Loving wife of Mervyn

Loving mother and mother-in-law of Bryan & Tania; Di & Pete; Kaylene & Marcus; Trevor & Tarsh.

Adored Grandma to all her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

“Rest in peace”

BAKER (nee Clyne), Nola

Much loved sister, sister-in-law and Auntie to Alan & Bev Clyne, Craig & Taylor, Sam & Becky Rest in Peace

BAKER, Nola

Passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, aged 86.

Dearly loved sister of Lynette, sister-in-law of Kevin, loved aunt of Travis and Cassi, Dallas and Kirsty and families.

“A life well lived” Forever in our hearts

BRADSHAW, Donald ‘Doc’ James 20.12.1965 – 06.10.2025

Passed away peacefully at the Ballarat Base Hospital Loving Son of ‘Alby’ &‘Daph’ Brother of Michael, Garry & Ann Forever in our Hearts

BRILLIANT, Anna Maree Clark

Aged 50, passed away at home.

Loving Mother of Joel and Luke. She will be sadly missed. Rest in peace Mum

BRILLIANT, Anna Maree Clark

Ex-wife, daughter-in-law, sister-in-law and aunty to Justin, Ian, Marissa and Gilles & Elodie.

Sadly passed, Forever in our hearts.

BRILLIANT, Anna

Anna was the love of my life.

I’ll miss you forever and you will never, never be forgotten ever, Cam

COATES, Graham Douglas

5.10.1946 - 4.10.2025

Son of Doug (Dec) & Lesley Husband of Denise

Father of Anthony & Rod

Father-in-law of Elycia & Fiona

Poppy to Jocelen, Ayden, Josephine & Amy

From childhood to manhood Graham worked hard, was devoted to his family, enjoyed life and always thought of and did things for others. The impact someone has on our lives is often not realised until they are gone.

His uniqueness will live on in our memories, so dearly loved, so much appreciated.

As was his wish, Graham will be farewelled at a private ceremony.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

DOUGHERTY, Steve

Passed away on 11 October 2025, aged 73 years.

Loved husband of Rosalie.

Loving father and father-inlaw of Kirrily & Brendan; Ben.

Adored Poppy to Aaleyah, Lily, Braxton, Phraze, Callen and Lyrik.

‘Forever in our hearts’

MERRETT (nee Cutter), Barbara Ann

25.02.1955 - 11.10.2025

Wife of Eric (dec)

Eldest daughter of Sid (dec) & Heather (dec)

Beloved sister to Ian, Will, Jeﬀ (dec) & Fiona

Sister-in-law to Sharon, Ellen & Dean

Reunited with Mum, Dad & Je

MILLS,

Stuart

Passed away 11/10/2025 from MND.

Loved husband and father of Gina & Luke.

Cherished nephew of Betty & Alan (dec) Nattrass.

Cousin to Gayle, Kerry, Sharon and families.

Lots of beautiful memories. There will never be another Stuart, forever in our hearts. Reunited with Ian & Dos.

PIZZONI,

Glenda Marie

Passed away September 2, 2025 Aged 81

Dear friend and motherly support of Nicky. Fondly remembered by the McMaster family. Gone to enjoy 18 holes of golf with glass of red in hand.

At Glenda’s request, a formal funeral service will not be held. However, an informal gathering will be arranged to honour and remember her life.

Horsham & District Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

RODDA, Greig

23.01.1943 – 04.10.2025 Passed away peacefully

Loving Husband of Kathleen

Adored father of AnneMarie, Desiree & Claire Cherished Grandfather Forever Remembered Forever In our Hearts

ALTMANN-ROLL (nee Henman)

A Graveside Service for Mrs Rhonda Joy Altmann will be held at the Rainbow Lawn Cemetery on Monday October 20th, 2025 commencing at 11am.

W.B. Gardiner & Son

Funeral Directors Warracknabeal 0407 340 064

BAKER, Nola

The Funeral of Nola Baker will leave Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Horsham on Friday, 17 October 2025 after a service commencing at 2pm for the Horsham Lawn Cemetery.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA

BRADSHAW, Donald James

We wish to share that the funeral service for ‘Doc’ will be held graveside at the Nhill Lawn Cemetery on Saturday, 18th October at 11 am.

Doc’s funeral arrangements are being handled with care by Emiley & Mathew Bone

Nhill, Dimboola & Kaniva

District Funerals 0419 008 464

DOUGHERTY, Steve

As was his wish Steve Dougherty will be farewelled at a private family gathering.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

RODDA, Greig

We wish to share that the funeral service for Greig will be held graveside at the Nhill Lawn Cemetery on Monday, 20th October at 11 am.

Greig’s funeral arrangements are being handled with care by Emiley & Mathew Bone

Nhill, Dimboola & Kaniva

District Funerals 0419 008 464

Thank you

~ HAUSLER ~ Lillian Ann

Thank you from the family of Lillian Ann Hausler nee Pickering. There are not enough words to fully express our heartfelt thanks for your sympathy, love and support you have extended to our families during this sad occasion.

Signed: Ron Hausler and family and Pickering family.

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

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

Budgies , assorted colours $10 each Ph 0417533579

Budgies, including white to yellow, assorted colours $10 each Ph 0428010996

Cocker Spaniel pups for sale, purebred pups black, female available from September, microchip# 978142000982266, Source# R185238 Ph 0429912620

Kelpie puppies for sale, good working parents, great temperaments, 2 male brown/ tan, 2 female black/tan and 2 male black/tan available, currently 7 weeks old and have been vaccinated and microchipped, source# MB 286176, 956000018852127, 956000017246586, 956000017239009, 956000017249996, 956000017239349, 956000018852851, $500 Ph 0408575398

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

Purebred black faced

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

Reduced price to reflect age of puppies, Spoodle puppies, 2 Spoodle girls - could one of these girls be the missing piece in your life, raised in a loving family environment with sweet natures, 6 week vacations, microchip and vet checked, ready to join their new furever families, born 9 May, microchip# 956000017221175 & 956000018924045, source # EE223376 $2000 price neg Ph 0400035456

Roosters, ducks and guinea fowl wanted to buy Ph 0480137184

Welsh Pembroke male and female Corgi puppies red and white, born 11/6/2025, vet checked vacc and microchip, available on the 8/8/2025 for there new home, microchip# 953010007914643, 953010007914649, 953010007914762, 923010007914686, the pups are reg with MDBA and come with Pedigree paper on limited reg, source# RB110579 Ph or text for pic and info 0448024815

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

1998 Cameron Canvas Camper , fully enclosed annexe, off road tires, double innerspring mattress, always stored undercover $5000ono Ph 0439553575

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

Death Notices

Funeral Directors

Bereavement Thanks

antiques

Animals & Accessories

caravans

2013 Jayco Starcraft, 21’, one owner, very little use, as new, many added extras suit retired couple planning to travel $39,000 Ph 0427909230

2019 Ezy Trail Stirling GT

Mark 2 camper, EC, full annex, used 4 times, full rego $14,999 ono Ph 0428820446

Colorado Summit 210E 21’

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

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

Jayco Sterling van purhcased as new , 21’, solar panel, 240v-12v full size fridge, seperate toilet and shower, washing machine, full size double bed with egg shell mattress, 240-12v TV, elec gas hot water and more extras, first to see this van will buy $30,000 Ph 0428861752

MDC Highside Cruiser 2019, 3 ton McHitch, fridge, redarc dc to dc charger, EC $14,500 Ph 0407147996

Queen bed camper trailer, make an offer Ph 0407179433

REDUCED 2018 Dingo

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

REDUCED Jayco Optimum

2013 motor home 28.5’, 2 slides, extras inc, 400 watt solar, diesel heater, bulbar, security system, 92,000kms, $150,000 Ph 0438951101

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

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

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

4080B with forks and bucket, GC $15,000 Ph 0419389693

Champion 9G 61 model , linkage belt pulley, roll cab, new core radiator, 1800 hrs since motor rebuild $6000 Ph 0429857207

Expression of interest, for sale, Lowan round bale carrier Ph 0407911884 evenings

Grain Auger Famson , hydraulic drive, lift + move, 40ft x 7inch 18hp V Twin Briggs, Stratto powered always shedded $4000, Chamberlain 30 disc plough oversize (26 inch) Heavy duty discs $3000, Silyan Boom Spray, 80ft Superior Boom 3,000 + 1,000 titre tanks custom, made to suit J, C, B, Tractor $20,000, John Shearer, harrows 15 leaf hydraulic lift $2,500 Ph 0427824233

Inter Truck C1600, 72 Butter Box model, Jonker hoist, 14’, new head and radiator, front new tyres $5000 Ph 0429857207

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

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

20ft shipping container, $3500 ono Ph 0407285097

5 step platform ladder , galvanised, on wheels with brakes $450 Ph 53522691

50 bales of native hay, small squares, always kept in shed $15 each Ph 55851429

6x4 trailer with cage, $900 ono Ph 0407285097

7x4 tool trailer, $3500 ono Ph 0407285097

Brick pavers , H shaped, beige colour, 1600 $800 Ph 0459027575 Stawell

Camper Trailer, all excellent condition $1500 Ph 0478254195

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, new Holland Mower GC with parts, 44g drums ideal for grain feeding cattle, best offer Ph 0429857207

Electric trike, GC, new tyres, new batteries $750ono Ph 0407302144

Flat deck tandem trailer , 4.2m x 2.3m, $4500 onoPh 0407285097

Folding bike with training stand $350, Snow sled 1050x500 $45 Ph 0418992631

Galvanised trailer, 5x5 $800 Ph 53522691

Gold and opal ring, approx 80yrs old, current valuation $4500 would like $2500 Ph 0458014560

J Berends pasture harrows 8’ $400 Ph 0429309491

Kirby Avalir 100th

Anniversary, EC, clean and functions perfectly, includes filter bags, brand new home care system, all attachments some brand new $750 Ph 0429679481

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

Omega gold watch , approx 65yrs old, still keeps perfect time $1500ono Ph 0458014560

Small fridge in good condition 47cm $60 Ph 0404215709

Solar hot water panel dux, model 2AP, still in packaging $380 Ph 0407565985

Stereo $200, Outdoor setting $150, a round table and chairs

REDUCED $290, a beautiful organ paid $8000 selling for $3500, Chiffonier paid $950 selling for $350, ironing board $60, green leather couches,1 x 2 seater and 1 x 3 seater, pristine condition, paid $6500 sell for $4000, all needs to go by 27th October, Ph 53824788

Strongberg Carlson Console Radio, ex condition Ph 53824316

Tent Dune Eyre, 10x10, near new, easy set up for Easter Ph 0491644368 Horsham

Toro zero turn 42 inch deck, 2 years old, just had full service with new blades, great condition, less than 15hrs use, $6000ono Ph Tim 0418258787

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

Lost, Prescription

Sunglasses in Horsham Woolworths or Aldi car park on 24/8, if found please Ph 0429861917

15’ fibreglass clinker inboard boat, no motor, make an offer Ph 0407179433

3.7 savage aluminium boat, UM198, 25 HP Mercury forward steer reyco trailer, b15834 electric motor and lawrence fish finder $2600 Ph 0428523919

Extreme Motorboat , low hours, well maintained, $45,000 Ph 0428788212

Stacer Aluminium fishing boat, 25 horsepower Yamaha outboard motor, trailer & boat registered, VGC $6000 Ph 0498549832

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

Quickie electric wheelchair, hardly used, EC $16,000 neg Ph 0429881523

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

Ute canopy, 2050L x 1900W, will fit extra cab and single cab, LH side pull out dropt down kitchen, 110lt fridge, 120Ah lithium bat and power hub, rh side all storage $16,500 Ph 0427840201

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

1994 Ford ED

2004 Harley Davidson Heritage softail, screaming eagle pipes saddle bags, great condition, 25xxxkms Ph 0492943038 Stawell

2011 Honda 750 Shadow Shaft, as new cond, reg til 2/26, spares inc some new, 27,700kms $5250 Ph 0488023477

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

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

drives beautifully, extras, engine# 206KA25194243, 240,000kms $28,000 Ph 0438297899

2014 Isuzu D-Max, 5

3.0lt

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

Landcruiser Prado 150 alloy nudge bar series 31/8/90, PZQ2960420,

4x2,

460kgs, RWC, reg til 19/1/26, 285,658kms, 1DQ6HB $23,990 Ph 0466375088

2014 Toyota Hilux, 3 litre diesel, new shockers and springs and injectors, oil filter and oil every 600km, great for towing vans, 290,000kms $25,500 Ph 0417109816

2019 Ford Ranger XLS grey double cab with full screen, very good condition

125,000km, 8 mths rego, new tyres, snorkel, arb bull bar, air bags, side steps, black duck seat covers, under tray tool boxes, many extras always shedded, minimal towing

$45,000 inc Gst Ph Andrew 0427923236

Nissan Navara ST 4x2 2018, automatic diesel, white color, very good condition, engine

2.3L 4Cyl, service car at 121,654km, canopy , front bar sport, one new tyre, towbar, one owner, registered till 28 June 2026 in Vic, 1PR4MJ, 150,500km $23,500 Ph 0434282826

Toyota Ute, no Ev tax on this one, dual cab SR5 auto transmission, 3 litre motor, diesel, 2011 model, RWC supplied, high rise canopy, tub liner, trailer pull, electric brakes, as new inside, 106,500 kms, YFK992 $32,500 Ph 0428 832 227

Landcruiser ute with slide on camper, 2002, 4.2 litre diesel, 4x4, Millhaven tray towbar, bullbar, Superwinch, tool lockers, Polyair bellows, Davsher hitchhiker camper, new 90L, 3-way dometic fridge/freezer, fiamma awning, 2 burner gas cooktop/griller, sink,120kW fold up solar panels, 200W inverter, 200AH AGM house batteries, queen bed, robe, spacious storage, midge-mesh screening, Highjacker hydraulic legs, 2nd spare wheel, plus extras, excellent condition, 228,961km, HZJ79R Ph 0427482976

48 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

Jill Nicholson went to Dover girls tech in the 60s Adelaide, lived 5 Broadway South Brighton left Adelaide to live in rural Victoria early 70s Ph John 0423315174

Stawell Lady recently moved to Stawell, interests include art, camping, ukulele, singing, bushwalking, dancing, looking for a respectable man for possible relationship aged between 60 -70yrs Ph 0413375338

3 bedroom house to share, near Horsham cbd, own walk in robe and ensuite, semi-furnished Ph 0427963906

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We are Valuable

Do you ever feel worthless? Do you berate yourself over decisions made, words spoken, or actions taken? I do – and usually over really silly things! A number of years ago, I got myself into quite a state over something I said to a friend. Looking back now, I am amazed that I felt so worthless and upset – my friend knew that I was, at that time, quite shy, and that I sometimes said things to cover that shyness. Looking back now, I also realise there was nothing wrong with what I said anyway! Psalm 139 has been a great comfort to me during such times. Verse 13 reads, “For you created my inmost being; …..” and verse 10 says, “… even there [everywhere] your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.”

One thing I am sure of, and which comforts me greatly, is that I am valuable to God. He knows who I am, and He is with me everywhere and at all times. He knows my strengths and my weaknesses, my foibles and

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Undefeated sides to face off

BY LAUREN HENRY

Similar results played out in round two of Central Wimmera Tennis Association’s Pennant competition on Saturday, with Horsham Lawn and Central Park each walking away with a win.

Both teams remain undefeated in the 2025-26 season, setting up what should be an intriguing match when the two sides face each other this weekend.

Central Park defeated Kalkee 11-3 sets, 103-60 games, with top-class wins in their women’s singles matches.

Kalkee started well with a men’s doubles win, but Central Park soon got back on top with three doubles wins of their own.

Central Park’s Eva Wear was dominant against Meaghan Pohlner, winning 8-0, while Willow Sainsbury scored an 8-1 win over Anna Exell.

Their team-mates Harry Allan and Frazer Shurdington also scored great wins in their singles matches.

A close match ensued between the doubles pairings of Central Park’s Reece Harman and Shaun Alexander and Kalkee’s Grant Schultz and Luke Byrne, coming down to the wire at 8-7 – Central Park’s way.

Schultz and Aiden Richardson also combined for a Kalkee win, defeating Shurdington and Harman 8-7.

Central Park’s women had a day out, with Tara McIntyre and Macey Mayberry defeating Debbie Lawson and Amelia Friberg 8-0; and then Sainsbury and Mayberry scoring an 8-2 win over Exell and Friberg, In what was largely a tough day for Kalkee’s women, they were able to salvage one doubles match, finishing the day with Pohlner and Lawson defeating Wear and McIntyre 8-7.

In the other Pennant match, Horsham Lawn produced a similar result in its win over St Micheals, winning 11-3 sets, 102 to 67 games.

Lawn came out and dominated the early doubles matches, winning all four matches.

St Michaels’ Peter Hayes was able to steady the ship with an 8-5 win over Lachlan Punchard in the men’s singles, but Lawn hit back with Dylan, Tahlia and Ella Thompson each scoring wins in their singles matches.

Lawn also won four of the six doubles matches, with Graeme Wood combining well with both Boyd and Thompson to win strongly.

St Michaels will have a chance to score its first win of the season when it takes on Kalkee, also winless, in round three action on Saturday.

DETERMINED:

Lydi Boyd won two of her three sets in Horsham Lawn’s win against St Michaels in pennant competition on Saturday.

HATS OFF: Horsham Lawn’s Lachlan Punchard, below, loses his cap during windy conditions on Saturday.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Saturday.

IN FORM: Tahlia Thompson won her three sets in Lawn’s win on

FOCUSED: St Michaels’ Violet McGennisken in action against Horsham Lawn.

State first at Birchip

Birchip will be home to Victoria’s first harness slot race with the $125,000 Cargill Running of the Bulls set for March 8, 2026.

The newest addition to the Harness Racing Victoria, HRV, calendar, the event will have country Victoria at its core.

Birchip Harness Racing Club

secretary Brad Sharp said the concept was the realisation of a ‘dream that has been in the pipeline for four or five years’.

“We are over the moon to have reached this point,” he said.

“We are so proud of our once-ayear meeting, and this new race is an incredible addition to the day in 2026 and beyond.”

With major sponsor Cargill on board, the feature event in Birchip will be run for $125,000 in each of the first two years and boasts a unique set of conditions that asks slot holders to find the right horse at just the right time in their career.

Harness Racing Victoria chief executive Matt Isaacs said it was a ‘terrific concept between the club and HRV, which will turn up the dial on what is already one of the great Sundays of country racing’.

“I congratulate Birchip and its harness racing community in embracing this opportunity,” he said.

“I am sure plenty will line up to

be the first slot holder or trainer to win the Running of the Bulls, and that many more will flock to be trackside on March 8.”

Each horse in the final field will represent one of 10 slot holders, which will include the race sponsor Cargill.

The remaining nine successful parties will be chosen based on criteria, including their previous engagement and co-operation with the club and HRV, and their capacity to promote and attend the race.

Slots have been set at $10,000 per year, with a two-year commitment for 2026 and 2027.

Slot-holder expressions of interest close on November 14, before a committee selects the successful applicants, who will then be tasked with finding their perfect horse.

The 2026 race conditions have been carefully crafted to draw a field of emerging types and country warriors. They include:

A 2150-metre pacing race for horses four years and older, with a preferential barrier draw.

Horses must have a national rating of no more than 90 and have not won a race worth $50,000 or more since January 1, 2024.

Horses with a national rating of 91-plus are eligible, providing they have not won a race worth

$15,000 or more.

The horse must be Victoriantrained from December 1, 2025.

Sharp said the club had already received outstanding community support for the concept.

“The club thanks Cargill Cares for getting behind us, a small group of passionate club supporters for planting the seed, and HRV for its support to make it all happen,” he said.

Andrew Lee is the co-chairperson of Cargill Cares, an arm of multinational food corporation Cargill that supports initiatives with local impacts.

“Cargill Cares is set up to support organisations and not-forprofit clubs, and we are really happy to get this project off the ground,” Lee said.

“Myself and fellow co-chairperson Andy Barber are thrilled to support this event along with Cargill Cares.

“The annual Birchip meeting is a special one for the local community, and it will now go to a whole new level with Victoria’s very first harness slot race.”

For more information, visit www.thetrots.com.au/event/2026running-of-the-bulls. – Harness Racing Victoria

WINNERS: Horsham City Bowling Club hosted its Regional Butchers Grand Final Eve Fours Tournament, involving playing three games of 10 ends to decide the winners. Only one team won their three games to be the winners – John Lehmann (s), David Chenoweth, Derek Ballinger and Marie Lehmann, pictured, scored 77 points. Tournament director Gary Knight said bowlers enjoyed fellowship and a fast green for the pre-season tournament.

Croquet players out in force

Horsham Golf Croquet filled its three divisions in two separate competition days in the past week.

with Rob Bahr, David Wortley and Glenn Price all runners-up.

Rachel Cousins won division two, with Kerrie Brody and Valmai Hood division three’s winner and runnerup respectively.

Horsham Golf Croquet again hosted two events the week prior.

On Saturday, Marg Pope won division one, with Rob Bahr the runner-up. Rachel Cousins won division two, ahead of Greg Phillips. In division three Kerrie Brody and Lorna Mills were joint winners, Yvonne Warrick was runner-up. Thursday’s division one winner was Shirley Price,

Ian Rees won Thursday’s division one competition, with Shirley Price the runner-up.

Greg Phillips won division two ahead of Rachel Cousins, and Lorna Miller won division three, with Di Jackson the runner-up.

Saturday’s event saw Marg Pope win division one, Shirley Price was the runner-up.

June Liddy enjoyed success in division two ahead of Greg Phillips, and Yvonne Warrick won division three, with Lorna Mills the runner-up.

Big-city coaching expertise on hand

Coaches

across the Wimmera will have a rare opportunity to learn from some of Australia’s leading sports professionals, with the inaugural Wimmera Coaches Collective taking place on November 20 at the Fed Uni Auditorium in Horsham.

The Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly, WRSA, and FedUni WestVic Academy of Sport, WVAS, have joined forces to deliver the new initiative aimed at uniting and empowering coaches from community sport, schools, and regional programs.

The evening will feature two keynote speakers including former Wimmera sports star Tim Decker, who is now the Victorian Institute of Sport endurance cycling head coach.

Decker is recognised as one of Australia’s most accomplished endurance cycling coaches.

Over more than two decades, his athletes have claimed eight world championship titles, five Commonwealth Games gold medals, and an Olympic medal trifecta in the men’s team pursuit – bronze in Tokyo 2020, silver in Rio 2016, and gold with a world record in Paris 2024.

Decker also holds the rare distinction of hav-

ing coached athletes to medals in every endurance event at the world championships.

The other speaker will be Badminton Victoria chief executive Clint Proctor, who brings a wealth of leadership experience across multiple sports.

His background includes serving as head coach of Box Hill Hawks Football Club, 2020-2022; and program manager for Good Sports, 20212023, where he championed healthier, safer, and more connected club environments.

WRSA executive officer Tony Caccaviello said the event was about giving local coaches access to high-quality professional learning without leaving the region.

“We want to bring world-class coaching insight right to the Wimmera,” he said.

“This is about connecting coaches across all sports, learning from the best, and building leadership and wellbeing into how we coach.”

The Wimmera Coaches Collective will run from 6.30pm to 9pm and is free to attend, with tea, coffee, and light snacks provided.

Registrations for the event are now open and can be made online through www.wrsa.org.au.

CHAMPIONS: Horsham Pony Club’s Iris Sudholz won the open one-star eventing class on her horse River, pictured, at this year’s Ranvet Pony Club Australia National Championships. Asha Fiedler competed on Dudley in the junior novice dressage, coming seventh from 17 tight placings, while Kylie Fiedler competed on Matthias in the open advanced dressage, scoring up to 68 per cent across her three tests.

SHOW: Horsham Agricultural Society hosted its annual horse show on Sunday. Above, Ali Margetts competes with Bubbles, left, Hannah Bufton rewards Walter after their event, and below, Hahana Young rides Ronnie.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Big Smash ready to rumble

BY DAVID BERRY

Aconcept to showcase the junior talent within Volleyball Horsham is set to launch on Sunday when 50 juniors will don neutral colors and enjoy a day of volleyball.

Big Smash ’25 pits eight junior teams against each other in a Lightning Spike format, where creating unity and a team culture will be the winner.

In a massive show of support, Pressed For Time has come on board as the event sponsor by providing playing tops for the eight teams.

The teams will be called Hype, Blaze, Bolt, Eclipse, Riptide, Mystic, Surge and Rush, with each team assigned colored tops.

Volleyball Horsham’s Matt McLoughlin, who floated the concept at committee level, said the idea was designed to bring all the juniors together and continue to build an inclusive and friendly environment.

“Volleyball Horsham has an evergrowing junior base with participants coming from many different schools within the Horsham catchment area, and we thought it would be good to garner that interest and give the kids an opportunity to play with different kids from the other schools,” he said.

“The perfect vehicle for that was volleyball, so we thought let’s give it a try.

“To get 50 kids to register to participate has been overwhelming and we’re looking forward to a great day.”

McLoughlin said the concept sees the participants go into a draft where they are ranked and then assigned

“We’ve used this format in the past and it is very popular with the older kids, especially when things get tight and the game moves into the last minute. Now the younger ones get to experience the fun of it”

– Matt McLoughlin

to the different teams, to ensure the teams are as equal as possible.

“Each team will have a marquee male and female player who will be the experienced heads in each team, and they will be responsible for leading the teams,” he said.

“We will then assign the junior talent evenly amongst the teams, so they get to learn from their leaders and enjoy their experience.”

McLoughlin said Big Smash ’25 would be played with two 10-minute halves, with two points awarded for an ace served and two points for a block shut out.

“What we’re going to do this time, given the strength of some of the older kids, is assign the boys as defensive specialists, while the girls will play entirely on the front row as attack specialists.

“That way those stronger boys won’t serve, while the girls can showcase their attacking and blocking skills.

“It will be interesting to see how

each team embraces this change to the format.”

McLoughlin said should the concept be considered successful it could be introduced twice each season.

“The timing is good to try it now as the junior country championships have finished and there is still a buzz around the success of that tournament,” he said.

“Maybe we could do another Big Smash in semester one in the lead-up to the senior country championships

and give those participating in that tournament some different preparation.”

McLoughlin said the event promised to be a fun day with activations scheduled throughout to keep the kids and the parents interested.

“Who knows, there might be some parents out there who have great serving skills that we haven’t seen yet, let alone their kids, that might win themselves a prize or two,” he said.

Final races for pigeons

Horsham Pigeon Racing Club’s last race on the north line for the season was switched to Glendambo, South Australia due to unfavourable forecasted weather conditions from Cunnamulla and Bourke.

With a release at 7.30am from Glendambo, with a favourable westerly breeze some members expected the first birds to enter their home region between 5pm and 6pm on the day of release, however a small batch arrived about 7.30pm.

John Muszkieta’s bird flew the 875km airline distance averaging 74.5kph, or 1224 metres a minute, arriving at its home loft at 7.24pm. Kevin King’s pigeon arrived 1:07 after the winner, flying 1221m/m. At 7.27pm, the McPhee family’s first entry took third place at 1217m/m. Eight members had their first pigeon homing on the day between 7.25pm and 7.40pm. The next batch arrived home to their respective lofts early the next morning.

Over the decades, the quality of racing pigeons has steadily improved. It is now common for today’s bloodlines to complete an 800km flight on the day of release with time to spare. This was a rare occurrence decades earlier. This season’s races confirm the quality of racing pigeons in our area has not deteriorated, however the improved results including average velocities flown may well be due to the flexibility to conduct a race on a preferable day to that planned, but also not reliant on having a pre-determined day of release.

The final race on the southeast line and for the 2025 season will be from Melton later in the week.

One Red Tree: basketball day start of something of bigger

A youth basketball day in Ararat on Saturday is hoping to provide an event for young people to not only enjoy themselves but engage with their community.

One Red Tree Resource Centre is a not-for-profit charity organisation providing high-quality mental health services and training in Ararat, Stawell and surrounding areas.

The Red Basketball Day will be from 11am to 4pm at Ararat Fitness Centre, and is open to all youth.

As well as a 3v3 tournament, there

will be hoop-shooting and art design competitions.

The event aims to create a sense of belonging and engagement in the community through sport; promote positive mental health and fitness in a fun and enjoyable way; and raise money to support the ‘Uniform for Girls’ initiative.

Ararat Rural City Council’s Yeah Crew are also assisting with the event, while police officers and Ambulance Victoria staff will be in attendance to engage with youth.

A Rotary Club barbecue, Maria’s coffee van and Ozzy’s food van will keep everyone well nourished.

One Red Tree co-chief executive

Carly McKinnis said organisers were hoping Saturday’s event would be the first of what would be an annual day.

“We are hoping it will become a regular event on the calendar.

“We’ve got a big picture idea about what we want this day to be in the future, and how we would like it to develop into a mental health and wellbeing festival.

“ Our hope is that this will build in the future because not all kids are into sport – we can build it into an arts and culture event so that it’s inclusive of everybody with their interests.”

Ms McKinnis said the idea of attracting a major basketball tournament to Ararat would also be beneficial for youth.

She said engaging with young people was key to the success of the town’s youth.

“ I’m really passionate about engaging young people because we often

talk about problems way down the line as adults, and I think we’ve got to do the intervention when the kids are young.

“Engage kids, and give them a sense of belonging and connection to community. But you have to actively outreach and do that, and I think that can change the trajectory of some kids’ lives.”

People can register through the Facebook event at www.facebook.com/ events/782742217835124 or simply turn up on the day to participate.

LEADERS: Victoria Brown and Serena Johns will be marquee players at Sunday’s Big Smash ’25 event at St Brigid’s College stadium.

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Tennis roadshow

Tennis Victoria’s Sustainable Regional Tennis Roadshow is travelling across the state with former professional tennis player and Order of Australia medallist John Fitzgerald to promote volunteerism to sustain the sport.

At Horsham Lawn Tennis Club on Friday, programs manager Sam Condon said the roadshow would visit more than 12 towns across its four weeks.

“Tennis Victoria has created a partnership with Tennis Australia and the Victorian government to contribute $1-million to sustain regional tennis,” he said.

“We want to create thriving tennis communities, but particularly we understand that in regional Victoria there are 31 per cent of venues that have a regional coach, but we also know that typically across Australia, 50 per cent of participation comes from the coach.

“If a coach isn’t at a venue, participation will decrease, so we’re putting a lot of effort into creating that next generation of volunteer deliverers through our Hot Shots program to ensure that we have sustainable tennis

clubs across Victoria.” Condon said Tennis Victoria was lucky to have Natimuk-based Kate-Lyn Perkin, a tennis development officer for the country central west, and a volunteer deliverer of Hot Shots.

“To have this in the Horsham community is massive, because all the other volunteer clubs around the area are similar to Kate-Lyn in that they’re trying their best to grow the tennis community,” he said.

“We’re putting a significant amount of funding into upskilling coaches and volunteers, as well as helping coach businesses thrive when it comes to both on and off court, and we’re lucky to have John Fitzgerald joining us and selling the message.”

Originally from South Australia, Fitzgerald said he enjoyed touring regional areas.

“I love going to the regional areas, they’re always fun,” he said.

“I care about country sport and sport in general – but tennis is even better.”

Horsham Lawn Tennis Club president Brett Thompson said the club enjoyed a strong junior following, with junior members making up more than half the membership base of 250.

“The club is very strong at the moment, because of the successful junior programs that have happened in the last 10 years or so,” he said.

“We have Hot Shots on a Saturday morning, which is all about the kids getting out there, having fun, work-

ing on a bit of racquet hand-eye coordination, getting to like tennis, and hopefully develop into playing tennis later.”

The Hot Shots program is the initial pathway for children aged about four to nine years of age, before they can

progress to low-level junior competition such as match play, then beyond into senior streams.

People can find out more about Horsham Lawn’s Hot Shots program by calling Maree Thompson on 0499 820 552.

Memorial golf tournaments

Horsham Golf Club will host a prestigious event with teams of women golfers from Horsham and other clubs competing for the Nell Smithett Memorial Trophy on October 31.

The event has been played annually since 1970, and is in recognition of the achievements and contribution to golf by Smithett, who was a member of Horsham Golf Club.

Smithett was Lady Captain at Horsham for four years and the club champion in 1964, ’65, ’66, and ’67, and Wimmera Champion in 1965.

She was also Victorian champion in 1936 and 1937 and Australian and New Zealand champion in 1937.

Smithett was a member of the Victorian state team five times from 1936 to 1949 and won several state titles.

amateur ranking event that is part of the Karrie Webb series. The format of the Horsham event is stroke in teams of four with the best three scores to count. Play begins with a shotgun start at 9.30am.

Trish Mills event

A much-valued Horsham golfer will be remembered the day prior, on October 30, when the Trish Mills Blue Wren Memorial trophy event is played.

The event, open to visitors, will be in the format of teams of three playing in a Texan Stableford competition, starting at 10.30am.

She was an active member of the state council for 30 years and was involved with the establishment of the Scratch Score Sub-Committee.

Golf Victoria annually remembers Smithett with the Nell Smithett trophy presented to the winners of a Victorian 72-hole, stroke-play women’s

Mills joined Horsham Golf Club in 2002. She became a member of the Ladies committee in 2003 and was then Ladies Captain in 2004, resigning from the committee in 2006. She rejoined the committee from 2011-2019. Mills loved her golf, playing many times a week and would also support the smaller clubs at tournament time. She was part of six winning pennant teams for Horsham. She played golf up until her death in October, 2023.

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ON TOUR: Tennis Victoria promoter and former professional John Fitzgerald at Horsham Lawn Tennis Club with Haven club juniors Davey Toet and Olivia Robertson. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

WINNERS: A Wimmera team won the junior open 15-18 years division at Tennis Victoria’s Regional Teams Event at Benalla on the weekend. The winning team, pictured from left, was Sienna Wood, August Koch, Eli Bailey and Adele Joseph. The event included mixed doubles and singles play against regions from across the state. The Wimmera’s 10-and-under team finished second, while its 12-and-under and 14-and-under teams each finished fifth.

spOrT

Cup drawcards

With a new major sponsor on board this year, the Horsham Cup may have a new name but the event will still offer the same day full of entertainment to suit the whole family.

With an eight-race card on Sunday featuring the 2100-metre Manhari Horsham Cup, a weather forecast of 29 degrees and plenty of other on-course activities, Horsham and District Racing Club is expecting a strong crowd.

While private marquee bookings have now closed, umbrella packages and tickets to the Farm Frites Giddy Up Marquee are still available.

In the Giddy Up Marquee, people can enjoy a fully catered experience with music, all-day grazing, and a five-hour beverage package. Otherwise, people can buy a general admission and enjoy a day on the lawn with friends.

Club manager Charmayne Parry said whether people were racing enthusiasts, fashion aficionados, or simply looking for a fun day out, the Horsham Cup day offered something for everyone.

“There will be delicious food, drinks, live music, and Fashions on the Field so it’s more than just a cup – it’s a celebration of community, style, and excitement,” she said.

Ms Parry said a new addition to Fashions on the Field was the Contemporary Lady of the Day category.

“We are having a standalone Contemporary Lady of the Day to encourage people who don’t do the traditional race wear to dress up nicely and enjoy fashion,” she said.

“This is your chance to be part of the fashions without competing against the traditional race-goers – it’s a different category and we encourage anyone who enjoys fashion to have a go at that one.”

Fashions on Field prizes will offer more than $5000 in prizes.

Ms Parry said the new sponsorship of cup day marked a change for the club and Horsham race-goers.

“Millers were amazing. Seventeen years of support from Millers, but they had a change in their business profile and it just wasn’t really a fit anymore so we both wished each other well, and were grateful for the great years,” she said.

“Manhari had been expressing interest for a couple of years, and they are a good sponsor to have on board.”

Ms Parry said the track was ‘looking magnificent’ ahead of cup day.

“We’re really confident with the track, and it looks beautiful so that is often a bit of a drawcard for trainers coming to Horsham,” she said.

“As well as the cup race, which is offering $5000 more in prizemoney this year, there’s also the heat of the Melbourne Cup Carnival Series, which is usually the last race of the day.

“That has a good prize pool and gives that horse the chance to run on Oaks Day at Flemington so that’s a bit of a lucrative one and draws a lot of horses.”

To find out more information about Horsham Cup and tickets, people can visit horsham.tickets.countryracing.com.au.

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FOR DAD: Horsham’s Joel Emmett completed the Melbourne Marathon, raising awareness and money for Bowel Cancer Australia.

Emmett puts spotlight on cancer

Horsham athlete Joel Emmett enjoys running for himself and playing tennis for his Central Park club, but he has also played basketball for his country, and at the weekend, ran a marathon for his father Robert ‘Shorty’ Emmett.

Among about 14,000 people to run 42.195 kilometres – or 26 miles – at Melbourne to raise awareness and money for Bowel Cancer Australia, Emmett said it was an amazing experience.

“It started at the MCG, went around Albert Park Lake, along St Kilda Beach, then back onto the MCG,” he said.

“When you get to about 36 kilometres you hit the wall, that’s

when you doubt yourself. You ask yourself why you sign up for these things, but the crowd cheering you on makes it a bit easier. It’s definitely a great atmosphere.”

Emmett’s friends, aunty, mother and father were waiting in the stands at the MCG to cheer him home.

“My dad has stage-four bowel cancer – I ran it for him,” Emmett said.

“It was just a great event that I could be part of and bring bowel cancer into the spotlight a bit more.

“It’s important for people to watch for symptoms, speak to their doctors about it, and sign

up for bowel cancer screening kits to be mailed to them.”

Emmett’s third marathon, he finished in a personal best time of five hours and 49 minutes.

Emmett said he was looking to represent Australia in basketball at the 2027 World Dwarf Games after travelling to Canada for the games in 2017, and might run a marathon at Sydney.

“Running is something that I enjoy and always will. It’s just one of those things that you can never escape – you always want to keep coming back,” he said.

“And it’s also been very special to be able to run for my dad.”

– Bronwyn Hastings

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Mixed results for Ararat Redbacks

BY LAUREN HENRY

Ararat Redbacks kicked off their Country Basketball League season with an eight-point win in overtime against Hamilton on Friday night.

The Redbacks’ Zac Dunmore – who also plays for the Ballarat Miners in the NBL1 South competition – shot an outstanding 68 points for the game, while Hamilton sharp-shooter Josh Miller scored 48.

Ararat opened the game strongly to lead by four points, only for Hurricanes to rebound and take a 47-44 lead into halftime.

The second half was also a tale of two halves, with the Redbacks having a 26-14 third term, before Hamilton finished the game strongly, scoring 32-23 in the fourth quarter to level the scores.

The match went into overtime where Ararat scored 17 points to the home side’s eight points to take a 110-101 win.

As well as Dunmore’s top score, which included six three-pointers, Ararat’s Clancy Bird scored 15 and head coach Josh Fiegert, 13.

The Redbacks could not back up their form the next day, going down to Portland 68-78.

Bailey in the running

The countdown to the 2025 Wimmera Sports Star of the Year Awards continues, with Horsham gymnast Remi Bailey the second finalist. Making his name in gymnastics circles both locally and nationally, Bailey represents Natimuk and District Gymnastic Club.

His nomination as a finalist for the Sports Star of the Year Award follows an outstanding year where he has achieved success on both the state and national stages.

Bailey capped off his season with a top-class performance at the Australian Gymnastics Championships in Queensland.

He won two bronze medals – one in the individual vault event and another as part of the Victorian team overall competition in the Level 8 Open Male division.

Earlier in the year, he also excelled at the Victorian State Championships, earning silver on the floor and bronze on the vault.

Bailey’s dedication and perseverance were on full display throughout the year, overcoming challenges in preparation to deliver career-best performances on the national stage.

His results reflect not only technical excellence, but also the resilience and determination that define the Wimmera’s sporting spirit.

The recognition marks the second finalist announcement for the 2025 Wimmera Sports Star of the Year Awards, following Georgia Foster’s

selection earlier in the year. More announcements will follow throughout the year as the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly continues to shine a light on the outstanding sporting talent across the region, from rising juniors to experienced champions.

The Sports Star of the Year Awards celebrate not just performance, but the heart and dedication behind it.

The grand celebration of award winners will take place on February 13, 2026, where finalists across 16 categories will be honoured, culminating in the announcement of the Wimmera Sports Star of the Year.

People are encouraged to nominate outstanding sports stars from across the region – anyone that knows an athlete, coach, team, volunteer, or community initiative that deserves to be recognised needs to submit their nominations now.

People can visit wrsa.org.au/ sports-star to nominate and help celebrate the people who make sport shine across the region.

The first and fourth quarters proved costly for Ararat. Dunmore again topscored but not to the heights of the Friday night game – this time scoring 32 points, with Ethan Fiegert contributing 24 points.

The Redbacks also went down to Portland on Sunday – this time playing in Ararat – losing 60-82.

Josh Fiegert scored 21 points while Bird shot 12.

Ararat will this Sunday face Warrnambool Seahawks in an away game, while Horsham Hornets, coming off a round two bye, will play Hamilton.

The reigning premiers will have their hands full with the Hurricanes,

particularly keeping Miller under control.

Following the Hornets’ first round losses, coach Scott Benbow said his new-look side would spend the weekend off getting a better understanding of each other.

“We had a really disconnected preseason, where you’ve got guys coming out of footy season, they’ve got footy trips and people away and we haven’t trained as a group properly yet, so we’re looking forward to being able to do that,” he said.

Benbow said the eight-round season meant the Hornets would need to find their groove quickly.

DETERMINED: Remi Bailey, representing Victoria at Australian Gymnastics Championships, is a finalist in the Wimmera Sports Star of the Year Award.

“You get 10 regular season games in this short season, so if you drop two you need to turn it around pretty quickly,” he said.

“We’re going to have to really get on our bikes now and try and get a couple of wins to give the boys a bit of confidence too.

“If we can get ourselves in the finals, we’ll give it another shake.”

Horsham Hornets’ women’s team will travel to Mt Gambier to take on the Lakers on Saturday evening before returning to Horsham to host Portland Coasters at 1pm at Horsham Basketball Stadium.

New top-tier competition ready to play

The new-look Horsham Cricket Association will begin its 2025-26 season on Saturday.

The A Grade will consist of 10 teams – but not reigning premiers Homers, who will not field a top-tier side this season.

Horsham Saints will also not field an A Grade team in the 2025-26 season, but the HCA will welcome three new clubs – Warracknabeal-based St Mary’s, Donald-Jeffcott and SwiftsGreat Western.

Laharum will be the first to get a look at Donald-Jeffcott, while St Mary’s will host its first HCA game at Anzac Park, Warracknabeal.

Swifts-Great Western will make the long trek to Brim to play Brim-Kellalac-Sheep Hills, Horsham Tigers will play Lubeck-Murtoa at its Dimboola Road home ground, and Colts take on West Wimmera at Dudley Cornell Park.

The 13-round home and away season will break for Christmas after December 20, returning on January 17.

The first six rounds are one-day games before two-day matches start on November 29.

The top four teams will contest finals with the semi-finals starting on March 8 and grand final on March 15.

B Grade will also be a 10-team competition, while C Grade includes 11 teams.

All competitions begin on Saturday.

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