The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Whatever it takes

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Bentley Clugston’s community is rallying around him and his family following a life-changing medical diagnosis that requires ongoing treatments in Melbourne each week, while his family seeks options to bring treatments regionally.

Diagnosed with mucopolysaccharidosis type II – better known as MPS II or Hunter Syndrome – four days before his fourth birthday on September 11, Bentley was quickly assessed by a multitude of specialists.

His mother Chloe said she and husband Tom were still learning about the condition.

“We’re still learning about it – we still don’t understand it and still can’t pronounce it,” she said.

“From birth, he was healthy. He was born with a club foot, so we’re already very well known to the Royal Children’s Hospital, but that was not part of his MPS.

“For two years he seemed to be sick all the time, ending up in hospital with breathing problems, just brutal sicknesses.”

Suspecting it was more than a ‘daycare cough’, Mrs Clugston took Bentley to an ear, nose and throat specialist, who investigated further.

“They found out he had subglottic stenosis and tracheomalacia, which at the time was a breathing issue, but now, another two years on, we found out it’s to do with his MPS,” Mrs Clugston said.

“He also had pain in his hips and legs, which they thought was related to his club foot, and said the pain was normal.”

Bentley’s symptoms worsened about five months ago, around the time of his sister Mia’s birth.

He eventually began complaining of lowerback pain.

“Doctors did a back exam and felt something unusual, so they did an x-ray and found abnormalities in his hips,” Mrs Clugston said.

“They had no idea what these abnormalities were from, so we spent weeks in Melbourne trying to figure it out.

“We were sent to all these different places.

“The doctors thought it could have been MPS, and genetic testing confirmed it. That was a bit of a rough week – the diagnosis four days before his birthday – but he’s had three birthday parties this year. He’s been spoilt rotten.

“We thought he deserved the fun; he’s been through absolute hell and back. But from there,

The Royal Children’s booked us into every clinic you could think of – heart, lungs, brain, eyes, all those things.”

Bentley’s hip pain and airway is sues are both related to his MPS, and specialists have conducted other tests to assess the extent of his syndrome.

MPS prevents the body from pro ducing an enzyme that breaks down certain sugar molecules, which build up in organs and tissues over time and can cause permanent damage to the body’s cells – heart, lungs, eyes, skin, connective tissues, bones and central nervous system.

A rare disorder, statistics show MPS almost always occurs in boys and symp toms can vary in severity.

Bentley has qualified for enzymereplacement therapy, a medication on a subsidised life-saving drugs program, which will be delivered to him via an IV, before he has a port implanted in about 12 months.

Treatment days are about eight hours, not in cluding travel to and from the hospital.

“We’ve spoken to the cancer centre here in Horsham, and they said they would love to be able to help us if the Royal Children’s was on board, but at this stage they’re not, I think due to his age and because it is so rare,” Mrs Clugston said.

“The Children’s said maybe one day, but they can’t guarantee it.

“They said the closest they would bring it at this stage was Ballarat, but that wouldn’t be for years and years.

“I’ve asked them what we can do to get it here.”

Mrs Clugston said Sarah Lee, the mother of Braxton Williams who was also treated at the Royal Children’s following a brain tumour diagnosis, also reached out.

“She said that people here need to be able to do some port training too,” Mrs Clugston said.

“But until then, it’s a trip every week for the rest of Bentley’s life.”

The Clugstons’ community has shown support on a GoFundMe ac count, which is raising money to assist the family with their medical, travel and living expenses.

Continued page 5

TROOPER: Bentley Clugston, 4, faces a lifetime of weekly trips to Melbourne for treatment for his newly diagnosed MPS. His mother, Chloe, has described him as ‘a trooper’.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

HRCC NEWS

Call for helping hands to support multiple birth parents

Bringing a new baby into the world is a big adjustment — and for parents of multiple newborns, it can quickly become overwhelming.

For a first-time mother of twins, triplets or more, the day-to-day tasks of feeding, bathing and changing can feel relentless, especially when there are older children at home as well.

Since 2019, local families have been able to turn to Council’s Multiple Birth Support Program, based at the Kalkee Road Children’s and Community Hub. It’s become a welcome source of practical help for those who need an extra pair of hands.

Not everyone has friends or family nearby, and many parents rely on the support of community volunteers — the kind of support this specialist program offers.

Now, the call has gone out for new volunteers to join the team at Kalkee Road.

Volunteers do all sorts of tasks that help ease the load — folding washing, preparing meals, or helping with general household jobs. Sometimes it’s doing the shopping or minding the children while parents get to an appointment. And over time, some volunteers build strong, lasting connections with the families they support.

Council is now actively recruiting new volunteers to be part of the program.

If you are interested, please call Council on 5382 9777.

New committee to keep Horsham’s community halls alive and thriving

Council has endorsed the establishment of the Halls Community Asset Committee, ensuring the ongoing community-led management and activation of ten much-loved public halls across the municipality.

At the Council meeting on 22 September 2025, Council formally adopted the Committee’s Terms of Reference and confirmed the process for appointing members.

The volunteer committee plays a vital role in overseeing Council-owned community halls, many of which serve as the social, cultural, and emergency hubs of rural and township life.

The Expression of Interest process for the Committee ran from 6 - 17 August 2025, with all existing committee members formally invited to apply for a role in the newly formed group.

The Committee will focus on coordinating hall use, encouraging local participation, raising funds, and advising Council on improvements and emerging community needs.

Council extends its sincere thanks to everyone who expressed interest and looks forward to working closely with the new Committee to support the ongoing success and sustainability of our region’s valued community halls.

Horsham steps up to shape Australia’s national food security future

Council has welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the Australian Government’s National Food Security Strategy through a formal submission to the recent Discussion Paper.

With deep agricultural roots and a strong role in the national food production landscape, Council has positioned itself as a key voice in the development of a strategy that will influence the future of food security across Australia.

The Horsham Rural City municipality covers over 4,200 square kilometres and is home to more than 20,000 people, with Horsham serving as the major regional hub.

Known for its broadacre and dryland farming, and with key institutions such as the Grains Innovation Park, the region plays a crucial role in both domestic and export food supply chains.

In its submission, Council called for a regional-first approach to food security—one that empowers food-producing areas through targeted investment, long-term planning, and coordinated action to address systemic barriers.

Recommendations from HRCC include protecting high-value agricultural land from competing land uses, investing in critical infrastructure and housing to support workforce retention, and prioritising strong, well-connected regional cities that serve as economic anchors for food-producing regions.

Council also highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration, advocating for stronger integration between all levels of government, industry, and community to ensure the Strategy delivers long-term, practical solutions.

The Australian Government’s Feeding Australia: National Food Security Strategy will be informed by submissions to the discussion paper, and Council is proud to be among the regional leaders speaking up for sustainable, secure, and inclusive food systems.

TENDERS AND RFQ

Q05-2026

OUTDOOR POOL FILTER MEDIA REPLACEMENT

Closes Friday 10 October

26-008

CONSTRUCTION OF SHARED BICYCLE PATH NATIMUK ROAD, HORSHAM

Closes Wednesday 8 October

Q06-2026

SHADE REPLACEMENT AT TWO LOCATIONS

Closes Thursday 2 October

26-009

WIMMERA LIBRARY 24 HOUR ACCESS PROJECT DESIGN AND INSTALLATION

Closes Monday 27 October

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

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

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

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HAVE YOUR SAY

HOUSING STRATEGY FOR HORSHAM

Council has prepared a Draft Housing Strategy to guide how much housing is required and where it will be provided across the municipality to 2041.

The draft responds to changing community needs and advocates for more diverse and affordable housing options.

Visit Engage Horsham to have your say.

Engagement closes Tuesday 7 October.

COMMUNITY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLANNING SESSIONS

Council has commenced a project to help build disaster resilience in high-risk areas.

The first community emergency management planning workshop will be held in Dadswells Bridge, with Wartook/Laharum and Natimuk sessions TBC.

• Where: Old Dadswell Town, 6237 Western Highway, Dadswells Bridge

• When: Sunday 5 October, 10am-4pm. Lunch provided. RSVP on Engage Horsham. DOMESTIC ANIMAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

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 final plan is presented at the Council meeting on Monday 24 November.

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

• Saturday 4 October - 10am - 4pm

• Sunday 5 October - 10am - 4pm

• Saturday 18 October - 10am - 4pm

• Sunday 19 October - 10am - 4pm

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

Feedback closes 5pm, Thursday 23 October.

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

Weather station’s future cloudy

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Yarriambiack Shire Council is calling for urgent support to safeguard the future of the Warracknabeal Automated Weather Station, a critical piece of infrastructure relied upon by emergency services, aviators, the agriculture industry and the broader community.

The station collects observations including: temperature, apparent temperature, dew point, relative humidity, wind direction and speed, pressure and rainfall.

Weather stations record observations in real time for the point where the observations are taken.

The council currently owns and maintains the Warracknabeal Automated Weather Station, AWS, one of two in the municipality, under a 10-year service agreement with the Bureau of Meteorology.

Council Mayor Kylie Zanker said most weather stations across Australia

were managed entirely by the bureau, but the council was responsible for all AWS servicing and maintenance costs.

“Our weather station has provided vital, real-time data to the region since 1969, supporting not only local needs but also feeding into global and regional weather monitoring,” she said.

“The importance of this data cannot be overstated, especially during highrisk events such as the Little Desert National Park fire earlier this year.”

However, Cr Zanker said the financial burden had grown unsustainable for the council.

“The annual servicing fee for the AWS is set to rise dramatically under a new three-year agreement – from $12,700 to $27,959 in the first year and approaching $30,000 within three years – despite servicing intervals being reduced to one service per annum. This increase is quite substantial,” Cr Zanker said.

“Providing meteorological data is

Mibus takes the lead

Noah Mibus’ role in Horsham Arts Council’s Godspell might seem like a far cry from his acting beginnings in Haven Primary School productions, but there is a common theme in the reason for his casting.

Portraying Jesus in the seven-show run, Mibus said he recalled his primary school teachers casting him for his vocal ability.

“I distinctly remember I got the lead role of whatever we were doing because I could scream the loudest,” he said.

“But I realised I wanted to do this as more of a serious thing when I was about 17, when I first got involved with HAC.

“I was in the ensemble for Mamma Mia, and I distinctly remember being backstage after the show, when I just realised.”

Mibus applied for art schools when he finished secondary school in 2019, and was accepted into Federation University’s Bachelor of Performing Arts at Ballarat.

The course’s prescribed stage shows were marred by COVID-19 restrictions, although Mibus was able to take to the stage in Shakespeare, as well as the Ballarat-traditional Exquisite Corpse.

“They gave us a prompt – write something – a song, a scene, a character, something, and they exquisite corpsed an entire show together, it

was something they did every year,” he said.

“After I graduated, I returned to Horsham and took it easy for a bit. I performed at the Wimmera Eisteddfod, where I saw Maddi Ostapiw, and she said there was a show coming up that I might like – it was Godspell.”

Mibus said he looked at all the roles with a view of which character would fit his singing voice.

“I thought I could either go for Judas or Jesus, but I knew it was a pretty long shot,” he said.

“Then I got the text – ‘we’re going to make you Jesus’.”

Mibus will appear alongside seasoned HAC performers Jed Prouse as Judas and Christ Versteegen as John the Baptist, and an ensemble and backing vocalists.

Rehearsals began about three months ago, with the cast of 13 learning all the songs first.

“Godspell is a very unique show to perform, because there is no real plot to it,” Mibus said.

“It’s kind of just parable, song, parable, song, parable, song, end of the first act, song, and then it’s just what you’d expect from the Bible at that point.

“All the parables kind of happen in different orders, until the second act where it’s just the death, really.

“Spoiler alert – I die – but I feel like everybody already knows that.

not a core local government function, yet the cost of maintaining this infrastructure has become increasingly unsustainable.”

Cr Zanker said without external financial support, the council would be unable to maintain the AWS to the required standard, leading to its proposed decommissioning on October 31.

“Losing this facility would be a significant setback for our community,” she said.

“We have written to federal and state ministers, as well as the Victorian Emergency Management Commissioner, seeking their urgent assistance to ensure the station remains in service.”

The council is urging all levels of government to recognise the indispensable value of the Warracknabeal AWS and to work together to secure its future for the benefit of all who rely on its data.

The AWS is part of an infrastructure system, taking observations for the

widely-used Bureau of Meteorology, with stations located within about 50 kilometres of each other.

A bureau spokesperson said the bureau’s weather forecast and weather warning service had been designed to be comprehensive, resilient and not dependent on any one piece of equipment.

“In the Warracknabeal area, surrounding AWS observation points include Longerenong, approximately 40 kilometres to the south; Horsham Aerodrome about 45 kilometres to the southwest; Nhill Aerodrome, about 69 kilometres to the west; Charlton about 82 kilometres to the east; and Hopetoun Airport, about 67 kilometres to the north,” they said.

“And the Rainbow radar is about 50 kilometres northwest of Warracknabeal and provides coverage of the area.”

The spokesperson said the bureau’s weather forecasts and warnings for all regions were based on a combination of many different observing and

GODSPELL: Noah Mibus will play Jesus in Horsham Arts Council’s production of Godspell.

“There are a lot of fun moments in the show, a lot of comedy to be had.

“There are a lot of jokes that had to be written and rewritten to make them relevant. The directing team is doing a very good job.”

Mibus’ mother, Susie Mibus, is assisting with costume design – she has dressed casts of school and HAC productions for several years.

“She did a lot of costumes when I was in high school, and a couple of choice ones when I was at uni, where we needed something specialty made. I would say, ‘oh, I know

someone’ then ask her to drive the two hours.”

While Mibus is content after securing his ‘long-shot’ Godspell role, he does have an eye on acting further afield.

“If I can get on a stage in Melbourne – any stage – I’d be happy,” he said.

Godspell stages at Horsham Town Hall from Friday, October 10 to Sunday, October 19; tickets are available at the box office or via the town hall website..

– Bronwyn Hastings

prediction systems. “These include weather stations, satellites, radars and rain gauges and numerical weather prediction models,” they said.

“These systems provide a comprehensive dataset that ultimately enables communities to effectively plan for and respond to weather events.

“This is why people can find an accurate update of the current and forecast weather for any location, in the BOM Weather app.

“In emergency situations, we encourage the community to stay up to date with the bureau’s forecasts and warnings.

“The community can also access warnings via the bureau’s website and BOM Weather app.”

People can find data provided by Warracknabeal’s AWS on www.bom. gov.au as Latest Weather Observations Warracknabeal Airport and Warracknabeal Airport, Vic – Daily Weather Observations.

Show season

Goroke’s annual agricultural and pastoral show is this year based around the need for connection, following devastating fires last summer that forced the town’s evacuation.

The show has received funding from Goroke Apex, FRRR, and West Wimmera Shire Council to provide children’s entertainment, amusements, live music and a fireworks display on Saturday.

Other highlights include a car show, inaugural stockman’s challenge, rides, face-painting, craft activities, and a children’s disco from 5pm to 7pm. Students from Goroke P-12 College will run an entrepreneurs’ market stall, where they will be selling woodwork items and vegetables from the school’s Stephanie Alexander Garden. Murtoa will host its show on Saturday as part of its Big Weekend.

On scoreboard

Victoria Police’s Operation Scoreboard detected more than 5000 offences statewide during its four-day campaign across the AFL grand final weekend, which focused on high-risk driving behaviour.

In the combined police service areas of Horsham and Northern Grampians, police detected one drink driver, two drug drivers, two drivers who were disqualified, six who were unlicensed, 66 speeding offences, three seatbelt offences, eight unregistered vehicles, one cyclist offence and impounded one vehicle.

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Horsham Rural City Council last week entered a submission to the Federal Government’s National Food Security Strategy discussion paper in a move mayor Ian Ross said was overdue.

Councillors said Horsham and the wider Wimmera’s status as a region synonymous with food production made a submission to the strategy an obvious move.

They said the council could serve as ‘a key voice’ in the development of a strategy that aims to shape the future of food security nationwide.

“It came across my desk and I thought we could probably put in a submission – if we do put in a submission we at least have a seat at the table, and at a national level that’s really important given our food-bowl status in the Wimmera,” Cr Cam McDonald said.

Acting mayor Brian Klowss said the council’s submission reflected the region’s food-production status, as well as a long-standing commitment to ensuring rural and regional voices were heard at a national level.

“Food security starts in the regions, and places like Horsham are where the real work of feeding the nation happens,” he said.

“Our community is built on generations of agricultural expertise, innovation, and resilience.

“If Australia is serious about protecting its food future, then it must recognise and invest in regional food-producing areas like the Wimmera.”

Cr Ross, in his final council meeting before taking a leave of absence for health-related reasons, said the submission outlined many interests in the region.

“This is a really positive advocacy document for our municipality in relation to recognising the value of agricultural land and the other uses of

Councillors voice food security plan

land – so renewable and mining as well,” he said.

“It gives status to all and it gives a voice to all parties. We should have done this years ago, I believe, as a council.

“It’s really good, the advocacy that is now going on for the whole of our municipality.”

Cr Klowss said Horsham Rural City was known for broadacre and dryland farming, along with institutions such as the Grains Innovation Park, making it crucial to both domestic and export food-supply chains.

He said the council’s submission called for a regional-first approach to food security that empowered food-producing areas through targeted investment, long-term planning and co-ordinated action to address systemic barriers.

Recommendations from the council in its submission include: protecting high-value agricultural land from competing land uses; investing in infrastructure and housing to support workforce retention; and prioritising strong, well-connected regional cities that serve as economic anchors for food-producing regions.

“To build a secure food future, we need national strategies that recognise regional strengths and challenges,” Cr Klowss said.

Grateful for support

From page 1

tive four-year-old who enjoys kindergarten, childcare and football.

“That means supporting the local workforce, protecting our productive land, and ensuring the right infrastructure and services are in place.

Regional cities like Horsham are the heartbeat of agricultural economies – we need to be at the centre of this conversation.”

The council’s submission also highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration, advocating for stronger integration between all levels of government, industry, and community to ensure the national strategy delivered long-term, practical solutions.

People can read the council’s submission online at www.hrcc.vic.gov.au.

“We are so, so grateful for the support,” Mrs Clugston said.

“We’ve spent thousands on specialists, accommodation –and even parking costs are absolutely ridiculous. Most of the time it’s $38 a day, and if you work them out for two weeks straight it’s nearly $2000.

“But the support has just been incredible.”

Mrs Clugston said Bentley continues to be a typical, ac-

Mr Clugston’s home football club Taylors Lake is also organising a fundraiser to support the family – more information can be found on the club’s Facebook page or from club president Travis Mackley.

People can donate to the GoFundMe at www.gofundme. com/f/donate-to-helpbentley-his-family-mpsiihunters-syndrome.

“At this stage, he’s a normal kid, and hopefully with this medication, we can hold off MPS’s effects for as long as possible – that’s the goal,” Mrs Clugston said.

“He’s such a trooper. He’s full-noise though, that classic four-year-old – he doesn’t stop.

“Being so young, with all the appointments, it’s just not very fair.

“If he wasn’t this good with it, it would be hell, but he’s been fantastic.”

ONGOING JOURNEY: Tom and Chloe Clugston with their children Bentley, 4, and Mia, five months.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Northern Grampians Shire Council

COMMUNITY UPDATES

HELP SHAPE NEW RECYCLING PROGRAM

Council is reviewing our waste and recycling services across the shire in accordance with the State Government's Circular Economy (Waste Reduction and Recycling) Act 2021 Under the Act, council is required to introduce new recycling services for glass recycling and food and garden organics (FOGO) recycling To help determine the wants and needs of our community in this s pace, we have launched an anonymous Kerbside Waste and Recycling Survey. You can access the survey, which closes at 11 59pm on October 15, 2025, via the QR code at the top of this page.

MULTICULTURAL PLAN OPEN FOR COMMENT

To celebrate our shire’s diversity and ensure everyone feels included and valued, council has developed the 2025-28 Multicultural Action Plan Council is inviting community feedback on the draft plan, until Sunday, October 12 You can scan the QR code above for a copy of the draft plan and to provide feedback

SAFETY UPGRADES FOR INTERSECTIONS IN ST ARNAUD AND STAWELL

Council will improve safety at high-use intersections throughout the shire thanks to $2 million in State Government funding. The $210-million Safe Local Roads and Streets Program supports the development and delivery of road safety infrastructure projects on high-risk local roads, intersections, and precincts, such as schools Work is underway at the intersection of Barnes Street, Clifton Avenue and Frayne Street in Stawell, to deliver a roundabout and raised prio rity crossing There will also be several roundabouts created to slow traffic in Ligar Street. Work to raise the intersection at Millett Street and Kings Avenue in St Arnaud is expected to start later this year. Works are due to be completed by May 2026

Tourism Events Grants: Council’s Tourism Events Grant program is open until October 31, with grants of up to $10,000 on offer More information is available via the QR code above

CELEBRATION FOR GRANT RECIPIENTS

Council will host Community Celebration –Local Ideas, Lasting Impact events at Lord Nelson Park, St Arnaud, on October 7 and North Park, Stawell, on October 14. The events, from 6pm to 7 30pm, will celebrate the success of projects delivered with support from the council’s various grant and sponsorship streams You can RSVP via the QR code above by this Friday.

Next council meeting: Monday, October 6 in the Perry Room, St Arnaud Town Hall, St Arnaud, at 12 30pm The meeting is open to the public and will be livestreamed via our YouTube channel. The agenda will be available on our website.

Jochinke departs NFF president role

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Wimmera farmer David Jochinke will return to his grass roots after his respective board terms at National Farmers Federation and Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water end this month.

Although he will remain on NFF’s committee and is an active member in tourism, field days and hockey groups, Mr Jochinke said he was looking forward to spending more time on his Murra Warra farm.

“I’ve got a lot of fencing I want to do at home – my farm’s obviously suffered a bit through this whole tenure because you’re just not home on the ground,” he said.

“I’m just looking forward to spending more time doing the thing that I love, and that’s agriculture.”

Mr Jochinke is a third-generation grain and livestock farmer, and attributes his sense of community to his grandfather.

“Everyone does something, and my grandpa used to always say to me, you’ve got to be the person who you want your community to be,” he said.

“If you want to have an engaged community, you should be engaged as well. If you want something changed, you’ve got to go get it yourself. No one’s going to hand you things.

“If it comes easy, it’s probably not as rewarding as when you’ve actually had to go and be involved yourself. It’s so much

POIGNANT: Members of the Horsham community joined Victoria Police on Monday in remembrance of officers who died in the line of duty. About 50 people attended the service at Ss Michael and John’s Catholic Church, which honoured 13 Victoria Police officers who died between September 29, 2024 and September 25, 2025, as well as one officer each from Tasmania and New Zealand and two officers from Papua New Guinea. Monsignor Glynn Murphy led the service, with contributions from current Victoria Police members, a prayer from Blue Ribbon Foundation ambassador Paul Margetts and a performance by the Voices of the Wimmera choir.

Pictured are Constables Romano Gazzana and Corey Hatton laying a wreath. Picture: PAUL

better to help build something than just rest on your laurels.”

Mr Jochinke served the limit of 12 years on NFF’s board, his past two-year term as president.

“I’m definitely going to miss the organisation’s upper echelon, but it’s also been just a great honour to have had the opportunity to help lead Australian agriculture,” he said.

“We’ve had numerous issues that we’ve worked through.

“During my tenure as president, the live sheep export debate would be one of the real hallmark things that we fought, noting that it was more about the principle

of defending a legitimate trade than the trade itself.

“We’ve had taxation issues, and we still have taxation issues around superannuation and conversations around trusts and how they should be operating and taxed within Australia; we’ve had issues with a nature repair bill and it going beyond the realms of protecting the environment and making it more simple to manage.

“We’ve had biosecurity levies, the debate in which we were able to stop more burden going on to agriculture.

“We’ve had issues around everything from last mile, first mile port access, harmonisation of vehicle regulation of Pacific Islander and general industrial relations, red tape increasing and trying to make it more manageable for farmers.

“And phase two of the Murray Basin plans, what we’re just shaping up at the moment, making sure that agriculture is not disadvantaged by the ad hoc purchases that the government’s proposing.

“As one would say, it’s a very issue-rich environment.”

Mr Jochinke said NFF dealt with complex issues, and he felt honoured to be part of a national team.

“The networks and the people you get to meet are amazing,” he said.

“I just pinch myself every day that I’ve had the opportunity to be a part of something that’s so important – I’m very grateful for that.”

Don’t let life’s aches, pains and injuries drag on – do something about it today!

David Jochinke

CARRACHER

Church plea for extension

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Murtoa’s St Mary’s Catholic Church management committee has formed a sub-committee to petition the Diocese of Ballarat Catholic Education Limited in a bid to keep its school open.

Diocese of Ballarat Catholic Education Limited, DOBCEL, executive director Tom Sexton announced the closure of Our Lady Help of Christians School in Murtoa on September 12 after no new enrolments were received for the 2026 school year, leaving six students.

The DOBCEL’s regulatory-required minimum is 11 students.

Church management committee secretary David Grigg said the subcommittee asked for a 12-month extension.

“We’ve got to try and get an extension so that we can get more enrolments,” he said.

“People can enrol their kids for the next year, which will help us because we’ve just got to get the enrolments above 11 to ensure that we continue.

“There was no consultation with the school community prior to the closure announcement, it came as a complete surprise.

“A new, $2-million building now sits in the school grounds – the staff and students only being in situ for six months.

“It’s a beautiful school and we would love to keep it.”

“After more than 60 years of offering quality education in Murtoa, in topclass facilities, much of them being acquired through parent fundraising and grant applications, to see the school being threatened with closure has aroused much angst and disbelief”

– David Grigg

The St Mary’s Church community, along with staff members, parents, past parents and interested supporters of the school, met to discuss options for keeping the school open.

Ultimately, they sent a petition to the DOBCEL executive director Tom Sexton and Parish Priest Monsignor Glynn Murphy asking for a 12-month extension to allow the school time to find the required enrolments to stay open.

“After more than 60 years of offering quality education in Murtoa, in top-class facilities, much of them being acquired through parent fundraising and grant applications, to see the school being threatened with closure has aroused much angst and disbelief,” Mr Grigg said.

“The school is actively seeking enrolments in all year levels and anyone seeking an enrolment form or more information can contact the school.”

Already building on show success

Excitement is already building for next year’s 150th Horsham Show after Horsham Agricultural Society leaders hailed this year’s show a resounding success.

Executive administrator Andrea Cross said attendance was up compared to 2024, with more than 6000 patrons flocking to Horsham’s Maydale Reserve at the weekend.

The show kicked off with a twilight carnival on Saturday night, with the most rides it has featured in 10 years, before the agricultural show competitions on Sunday, capped by a fireworks display along the Wimmera River at 8.30pm.

“The weather for a start was on point. We couldn’t have asked for better weather,” Mrs Cross said.

“Overall I think the community and the patrons were happy. We kept them entertained pretty fluidly across the

weekend.” Mrs Cross said displays of wrestling, an annual sheep-shearing competition, games and camel rides were hits with people of all ages, while a maze, sandpit and lifelike dinosaur puppets kept children entertained.

She said organisers were already turning their attention to the show’s 150th anniversary in 2026.

“We’re looking at how we’re going to celebrate it, and we’ve already started putting plans in place,” she said.

“We will be looking at having a designated space for historical showrelated artefacts.

“I’m sure there’s a lot of people at home who have got grandpa’s boxing trophy or a cattle prize from past shows.

“We might have a best-dressed competition and we’ll be doing a

competition for the cover of the show schedule.”

Mrs Cross said the anniversary show would continue to celebrate the many stories of the patrons – both locally and from other parts of Australia – who made it what it was.

“A highlight for me this year was that we had two groups of an extended family, with one side living in Melbourne and the other side living in Kadina in South Australia,” she said.

“They met in Horsham to come to the show, and the grandmother and the grandson put entries in the photo competition.

“Having people travel so far to come to our show and for it to be a meeting point, that to me is a great story.”

• More pictures, page 25.

TOOT: Maddy Bruce and Clay Bruce ride the dodgem cars at the Horsham Show. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Council prioritises school safety plan

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Horsham Rural City Coun-

cil will investigate strategies to increase pedestrian safety around Horsham West and Haven Primary School’s West Campus following ongoing community concerns.

After a public meeting at the school in May, council infrastructure director John Martin compiled a report proposing permanent one-way traffic and angle parking on the north side of Kirwood Street; provision of an improved layout of the school’s internal car park; and wombat crossings on the intersections of Kirwood and Hillary, Kirwood and Kooyong, and Mathoura and Kooyong streets.

Mr Martin also reported wombat crossings could be accommodated within this financial year’s budget, as some pin-down components were able to be reused after the crossings were removed from other Horsham locations.

Speed limits of 30-kilometres on Hillary and Kirwood streets were also proposed, after the State Government released new speed zoning guidelines in late August, including the provision of 30kmh speed limits near schools.

Councillor Cam McDonald successfully moved a motion at last week’s council meeting that the council consult with the school

and community; seek a further proposal on the outcome of the consultation, to be presented for consideration in development of the council’s next budget; and provide advocacy support to Horsham West Primary School should the school seek to acquire the parcel of land on the west boundary of the school, up to the planned extension of Kooyong street.

Cr McDonald recognised the support of Member for Lowan Emma Kealy, who raised the issue at State Parliament, and resident John Flynn.

“I would like to highly commend John Flynn on his advocacy on this issue,” he said.

“This is a moving beast, and it involves the co-operation of the school, teachers, parents, students, Department of Education, residents and even the council.

“We had a talking post meeting earlier in the year, and I’d like to commend John and his team for the work they’ve been doing behind the scenes.”

Cr McDonald proposed consultation on rostering a regular presence of enforcement officers to oversee existing parking time limits, converting Kirwood Street to one-way east-bound, and replacing existing parallel parking with 45-degree angle parking to create an extra 13 car parking spaces.

“We also propose reducing

the speed limit to 30 kilometres per hour, potentially lower during school time, and formalising the off-street parking in Hillary Street, which primarily is for teachers but they’re choosing to park in other spots for various different reasons,” he said.

“Further to that, the purchase of the land behind the school really does involve the Education Department, however the council has decreed to become a strong advocate in this space.

“Given there are 200 housing lots, which is a significant development, my understanding is that this council team is very keen to explore the developer contributions in this estate and make sure to advocate for the best possible outcome.”

The council noted that earlier subdivision plans for Jenkinson Estate intended an area to be reserved for the Education Department for the expansion of the school site.

However that did not proceed, and about a decade ago the staging plan for the area was changed to show instead that eight lots would be established for private sale.

Mr Martin reported a detailed cost estimate for the motion’s proposed changes would be prepared following assessment of community feedback.

ENRICHING CHILDREN’S EARLY EDUCATION

Call for more supporting hands

Four years after going into recess, a multiple-birth support program is calling for volunteers to assist parents of twins, triplets and more in the everyday running of their household.

Based at Horsham’s Kalkee Road Children’s and Community Hub, the Horsham Rural City Council-run program assists with tasks such as folding washing, preparing meals, shopping, or minding children while parents go to an appointment.

Cr Angela Munn said there had been some wonderful people involved since the council started the program six years ago.

“It had been in recess for four years, and there was a clear need to bring it back,” she said.

“But as time has gone on, many of our original volunteers have moved on to other things or are no longer available – so we’re looking for some new helping hands.”

Cr Munn said the Kalkee Road Children’s and Community Hub had been one of the council’s great success stories.

“The Multiple Birth Support Program, in particular, has been a bright spot – and thanks to the dedication and care of our community volunteers, many families, including single parents, have felt supported through those early, demanding months,” she said.

“With that kind of help, new parents can keep life ticking along as normally as possible while managing everything that comes with a multiple birth.

“And over time, some volunteers build strong, lasting connections with the families they support.”

The council is now recruiting new volunteers to be part of the program. People can email council at council@hrcc.vic.gov.au or call 5382 9777.

part time/full time and

Are you a hardworking individual who has dedicated your life to raising and supporting your children? As they grow into successful adults, have you ever wondered about your own financial situation?

Are you on track for a comfortable retirement? Don’t worry, we are here to help!

ALL SMILES: Horsham multiple-birth group volunteer Emily Bartlett, left, with Carma Wright and her twins Aroha and Artiki Horyna. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31 from 5pm

Coming up

Oct 10: Line Dancing Oct 16 & 17: Country Music Nov 4: Melbourne Cup Nov 8: Sandra Humphries

Grow Local, Eat Local

Thank you for all of the interested that we received over the submissions period for the community cooking competition.

We are excited to proceed with the competition and look forward to welcoming our competitors and supporters on our competition day

4 OCTOBER 2025

For more information contact Jake Wiffen on (03) 5391 4312 11AM Nhill Uniting Church

Tim Bone Guest Judge

Collective vision enriches Brambuk

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Anew sculpture and four mixed-media artworks now adorn Halls Gap’s Brambuk cultural centre after Parks Victoria commissioned local Aboriginal artists to create the pieces.

Gail Harradine, a Wotjobaluk, Jadawadjali and Djubagalk woman born in Dimboola, created a large sculpture titled ‘Yunguip beal’, which means canoe and red gum in the Wergaia language.

The sculpture references Bunjil as creator of the Gariwerd-Grampians, depicting the eagle spirit hovering over a bark canoe and featuring images of the Banks brown butterfly, freshwater mussel shells, fish and platypuses.

Ms Harradine, who has a background as an artist, curator and educator, said she wanted to depict the deep cultural connections to Gariwerd’s landscapes experienced by Traditional Owners.

“First Peoples such as my ancestor, Pelham Cameron, traverse the waterways to fish,” she said.

“The waterways connect with Tchingal – a giant emu – and other creation stories for Jadawadjali.

“The installation recognises ongoing trauma and the importance of healing and cultural connection, understanding of the environment and focuses on working together.”

The Yunguip beal sculpture is located at the edge of the yarning circle in the Brambuk courtyard, with a fish net stencil beneath the canoe celebrating Aunty Glenda Nicholls’ work as a master weaver and arts practitioner.

Horsham’s Tanisha Lovett, a Gunditjmara and Wotjobaluk woman, and Gunditjmara artist Levi Lovett created four mixed-media artworks also installed at Brambuk under the collective title ‘A Cultural Connection to Gariwerd (Brambuk)’.

Ms Lovett said the four panels invited visitors to examine the connections between them.

“Each panel has symbols drawn in the sky and the ground, representing the rich cultural stories and connection Aboriginal people have with the land and the sky,” she said.

The frames surrounding the artworks were crafted by locals Nick Scott and Tim Sweet using upcycled jarrah from the Brambuk site.

Brambuk: The National Park and Cultural Centre originated from the collective vision of Aboriginal groups connected to the GariwerdGrampians region and is managed by Parks Victoria in conjunction with the Barengi Gadjin Land Council, Eastern Maar and Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal corporations.

The artists said Brambuk and Gariwerd-Grampians continued to be gathering places for Traditional Owners, and that the artworks would help Brambuk’s aim of welcoming visitors by sharing knowledge, breaking down barriers and building reconciliation and respect.

The works were funded by a Creative Victoria grant and are now on permanent display on the outer walls and in the surrounding grounds at Brambuk.

While the Brambuk cultural centre remains closed for upgrades, the national park information centre and surrounding precinct are open. For more information, people can visit www. parks.vic.gov.au.

Stawell skate park family day

A skate park ‘jam’ and skateboard painting workshop are highlights of a free family fun day in Stawell tomorrow.

Northern Grampians Shire Mayor Karen Hyslop said the Stawell Skate Park Mural Family Day would celebrate the mural painted by the Blender Studios team in June following community consultation on the design.

“To celebrate this wonderful new mural, council is providing an opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy a range of free activities,” she said.

The ‘Y’ will host the skate park jam from 11am as part of its Skate Park Leagues program, which involves partnering with local councils to bring events to skateparks.

“The jam session will be open to riders of all ages and skill levels. There will be extra scooters and skateboards for people to use, along with a heap of prizes and products up for grabs for people willing to have a go,” Cr Hyslop said.

“There will also be free pizza and an opportunity to decorate cupcakes – there is something for everyone.”

Cr Hyslop said she expected a skateboard

Daylight Saving begins Sunday, October 5

painting workshop, from noon to 2pm, would be popular.

“The workshop will enable participants to create their own custom skate deck with the legendary Blender Studios team,” she said.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a talented artist, this workshop is open to everyone. You will also get to take home your one-of-akind masterpiece.”

Bookings for the workshop are essential, with a maximum of 15 places available. People can register online at ngsc.elementorg.com/communitydevelopment/skateboard-painting-workshopregistration.

“The family fun day is one of several activities available to keep families busy in the spring school holidays,” Cr Hyslop said.

“Stawell and St Arnaud library and Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre are all delivering school holiday programs and there are several other events aimed at families running throughout the shire.”

People can visit www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/ Events/All-Events-Calendar for a full list of activities and events on offer.

McDougall steps up as ambassador

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Tatyoon farmer Leila McDougall has joined forces with support service Beyond Blue in a push to break down mental health stigmas in regional areas.

Beyond Blue last week announced Ms McDougall as a campaign ambassador for farming and rural communities in tandem with a screening project for her film Just a Farmer.

Ms McDougall came to prominence last year for the film she wrote, produced and acted in, which deals with themes of mental health and suicide in rural communities.

Beyond Blue officials said the campaign to screen Ms McDougall’s film in regional areas aligned with the service’s mission of supporting mental health in farming and other rural communities, as well as supporting small-business owners living and working in country areas.

Beyond Blue chief executive Georgie Harman said as a farmer and the creator of Just a Farmer, Ms McDougall was able to share her lived experience with authenticity – understanding the pressure of financial uncertainty, isolation and mental-health issues that many farmers faced.

“Leila’s deep connection to rural life and firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by farmers and communities in rural and regional Australia make her an invaluable voice in this campaign,” Ms Harman said.

“Leila’s compassion and commitment to mental health align perfectly with Beyond Blue’s mission to support Australians wherever they live and work.

“Together, we can help encourage open conversations around mental health to reduce stigma and ensure more people can access the support they need, when they need it.”

Ms McDougall said she embraced the opportunity to become a Beyond Blue ambassador.

“Living and working in a rural community, I’ve seen how mental health struggles can go unnoticed or unspoken,” she said.

“Through Just a Farmer, I wanted to start conversations that matter and genuinely reflect what life is like on the farm and for rural communities.

“As a Beyond Blue ambassador for farming and rural communities, I’m proud to help to continue to break down stigma and encourage people to seek support.

“Beyond Blue is there for farmers and rural communities and offers support such as NewAc-

cess for Small Business Owners, NASBO – a free and confidential service, tailored to the realities of farming and small business life. It’s exactly what our communities need.”

The NASBO program offers free, confidential and early-intervention mental-health coaching designed specifically for small-business owners, including farmers and agricultural operators, without the need for a GP referral.

Ms Harman said the film, which Ms McDougall is currently touring across regional Australia, offered a unique opportunity to engage local audiences, spark meaningful conversations and promote the support available in communities where it was often limited but urgently needed.

For details on how to request a screening of Just a Farmer, people can visit www. vampaddockproductions.com/contact.

To view the film’s current nationwide screening schedule, people can visit www.vam paddockproductions.com/communityscreenings.

For more information about the NASBO program or to access support, people can visit beyondblue.org.au or call 1300 945 301.

The Beyond Blue Support Service is free and available 24 hours a day by calling 1300 22 4636 or visiting beyondblue.org.au/getsupport.

‘The Block’ at Mount William Station

Mount William Station was showcased on television show The Block last week, the historic luxury farm part of a prizing segment on the home renovation show.

Contestants travelled to the Southern Grampians by helicopter with host Scott Cam, taking in the property’s grounds, accommodation and paddock-to-plate dining.

“The contestants and I had an incredible time at Mount William Station,” Mr Cam said.

“I love Australian history and the faithful renovation of the estate was fantastic, and the food was delicious.”

The Block is one of Australia’s most-watched programs, with a national reach of 3.2 million.

Leila McDougall

Education key for pet owners

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Horsham Rural City councillors are urging residents to provide feedback on a draft 2026-29 Domestic Animal Management Plan, DAMP, which was approved for public display last month despite opposition from Cr Todd Wilson.

The draft policy outlines the council’s procedures and regulations around domestic pets, including pet registration and identification, animal welfare and pet rehoming, programs promoting responsible pet ownership, and measures to reduce public nuisance like roaming or barking dogs.

Cr Angela Munn encouraged people to provide feedback on the plan, with community responses to help shape the final version of the DAMP.

“There is an opportunity here to guide the direction of this plan,” she said.

“Essentially I’d like to encourage people to just read it, provide feedback and just remember that positive feedback is just as valuable as any negative feedback.

“We welcome both sorts – to know if something has been done really well, and to know if something needs to be changed.”

Cr Cam McDonald said the plan outlined harsh penalties for pet owners found in violation of council policies.

“I do encourage every dog owner and cat owner to provide feedback, because in it there are some onerous fees and charges if you’re caught doing the wrong thing, and rightfully so,” he said.

“Part of the plan is to try and educate the public on the extent of those fees and charges so there are no surprises.

“Going forward, we’re looking for a higher level of compliance.”

But Cr Wilson said he worried the plan might not be effective if people were not aware of its contents.

“I would really like to thank the staff for really going above and beyond to answer my questions and concerns, because I have had substantial issues and reservations about this plan,” he said.

“However, I enter this debate with those reservations about the veracity of this plan to address some current issues in our community, and continuing from that, what happens if our education regime fails.

“I feel this plan lacks a plan B and may not achieve all it aims to if plan A fails.

“I agree with Cr Munn that if this motion passes, I ask the community to read the draft plan and submit their feedback, good or bad, so that we can leave it as it is or make any changes based on that feedback.”

People can view the plan online at haveyoursay.hrcc.vic.gov.au/domesticanimal-management-plan-2.

Pop-up sessions are planned at Horsham Plaza to allow people to provide in-person feedback between 10am and 4pm on October 4, 5, 18 and 19.

People can also email council@hrcc. vic.gov.au or post a submission on the plan to PO Box 511, Horsham VIC 3402. Submissions close on October 23.

DREAMS: Children have been busy during the school holidays creating dream catchers to go on display at Horsham Botanic Gardens in October. The dream catchers will be part of a fairy festival in the lead-up to Smart Artz Theatre’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream in the gardens from October 31 to November 2. Pictured with their creations made at the Horsham Regional Art Gallery spring school holiday program are, from left, Emella Touhey, Mercedes Bennett and Evie Schulz. Today and tomorrow, junior artists have the opportunity to create artwork inspired by current exhibits at the Horsham gallery.

Celebrating recycling efforts

Ararat Rural City Council estimates it kept nearly 60 kilograms of waste from landfill during the 2024-25 financial year through its participation in a country-wide blister-pack recycling program.

The Pharmacycle program allows people to recycle used pharmaceutical blister packs through local community drop-off points and partnering pharmacies. Pharmacycle processes the col-

lected blister packs to turn them into new products.

Ararat Deputy Mayor Bob Sanders said the council had diverted 58.92 kilograms of blister packs from landfill – equivalent to 59,542 individual packs.

Cr Sanders said the volume of blister packs collected last financial year represented 0.21 per cent of the total collected across Victoria.

“This initiative highlights how

small actions, when carried out across the community, can add up to substantial change,” he said.

“Our residents are ensuring more resources are recovered and reused.”

Cr Sanders encouraged everyone to participate in the growing program, with drop-off points at East Grampians Health Service, Priceline Pharmacy and Blooms The Chemist in Ararat.

CATCHING

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Goroke wins state award

Goroke P-12 College has received a state award for its performance ‘One Community: One Strength’ in Wakakirri, Australia’s largest performing-arts event for schools.

Inspired by the Wakakirri ethos ‘great stories inspire change’, more than 190 schools participated, creating and performing story-dances that reflected students’ thoughts, ideas and aspirations.

Goroke P-12’s performance coordinator Ahrain Kidman-Schier said he was overcome with pride.

“Working with the students to create this piece was a privilege and joy,” he said.

“I am overcome with pride, and the resilience and creativity of our students is something truly unique.”

Wakakirri Festival director

Adam Loxley said Goroke students should be proud of their performance.

“The standard of performance and the stories being told by schools this year was exceptional,” he said.

“Goroke P-12 College should be very proud of their award.”

Goroke’s story, told through the eyes of the students, was about the bushfires in Little Desert National Park earlier this year and the coming together of the community to support one another.

Their performance was described

“Working with the students to create this piece was a privilege and joy. I am overcome with pride, and the resilience and creativity of our students is something truly unique”

– Ahrain Kidman-Schier

by Wakakirri ambassador Dinley Jones as a thoroughly enjoyable story-dance, showcasing the love and power in community.

“This was such a powerful experience. Watching these young dancers come together, much like their own community, was truly beautiful,” he said.

“The choreography showcased both unity and individuality in a stunning way; the camera work, editing and costuming were all top-notch; and every element came together to create something unforgettable.”

Wakakirri is a national program that helps schools develop student engagement and wellbeing through participation in the performing arts.

Schools participate by creating story-dances which they perform in live theatres in capital cities and selected regional areas around Australia.

Schools in remote and regional areas participate via Wakakirri Video.

EXCITING FUTURE: Wade Carman, centre, is the new musical director of the multi-award-winning Ararat City Band. The expanding band is actively seeking new members.

Carman bringing the band together

Ararat’s 150-year-old city band is expanding under newly appointed musical director Wade Carman, with positions opening for people who play brass instruments, drums or piano.

Band committee member Dave Tolputt said he was excited about the band’s future.

“We’ve found a whole pile of new players who are coming in – the band’s doing really well,” he said.

“We’re excited about the future of the band – we have a lot of interesting stuff happening.

“We’re doing a kids’ program at Ararat Primary School, and we’re playing some excellent music at the moment.”

The band’s 16 or so members are particularly seeking low-end brass players, such as tuba, bass trombone, baritones and tenor horns.

“We have the instruments, just no one to play them,” Tolputt said.

“I reckon in a community this size there are people out there who probably learned to play some time ago, who might even have a trombone hanging in the cupboard somewhere, and have probably not thought about it.

“We want to say, ‘think about it’, because it’s a great band to be part of.

“The group’s playing some great repertoire, some really good popular music, and it’s great fellowship.”

Tolputt said he moved to Ararat about four years ago as a youth worker and attended an event where the band was playing.

“I played for probably 50 years with the Salvos, and I thought, oh, I wouldn’t mind playing again,” he said.

“So, I just rolled up and asked if I could play.

“I usually play anything above a tenor horn – they asked me if I could play the bass, so I gave it a go.

“I’ve kind of grown into it, and I’ve recovered all my skills. If you don’t play for a while, you get a bit rusty, but you’ll pick it up.

“We’re a pretty forgiving band. We like people to have a go, and we like people to grow.

“This is a great place for people to express themselves.”

Tolputt said people could call him on 0403 189 082 for more information on joining the band.

“We certainly want to hear from anybody,” he said.

“Even if you haven’t played a trombone or a baritone, if you have played anything, it’s easier to make the transition.

“There might even be a space in a group that we’ve already got plenty of people to add to it.

“The more playing, the better.”

– Bronwyn Hastings

Music festival divide

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Afour-day music festival near St Arnaud will go ahead next month after receiving a tick of approval from Northern Grampians Shire Council, despite the objections of some nearby residents.

The council last month voted to grant a planning permit for organisers to host the Wild Horses Festival at a Carapooee West property, marking the fourth year the festival has operated at the site.

The festival will run from Thursday, November 13 to Sunday, November 16, with an additional day for patron dispersal on November 17, with a maximum capacity of 2000 patrons.

Eight people objected to the permit application, including residents of neighbouring properties who objected to noise and air pollution created by the festival, while the council also received 16 letters of support –primarily from local businesses who reported an economic boost brought by the influx of festival patrons.

Cr Karen Probst said weighing the pros and cons of the festival was an ‘ethical issue’.

“I think that’s a very big ethical issue of ‘what do people have to put up with for the greater good?’” she said.

“The stress we could see on the objectors’ faces when they spoke to us was really palpable – they are really stressed about listening to this music for 24 hours.

“On the other hand, we’ve got 16 local businesses who sent us letters of support saying that the business they get from the Wild Horses organ-

isers really supplements their business, particularly in quieter times for them.” Crs Murray Emerson and Jack Blake voted against issuing the permit, raising concerns about patron behaviour at the festival and environmental impact on the adjacent Kara Kara National Park.

“It has a noise-pollution problem, it has a dust and air-pollution problem, it has an impact on the community network, it has a high risk of fire, it has no security … to stop people trespassing onto private property, there is lots of antisocial behaviour, which these days I can’t understand why the police tolerate that,” Cr Emerson said.

“I could go on and on with the list I’ve prepared, but I think one of the main things is that it has never been proven to me the economic benefit to the community from this event.

“People come in, bring their own stuff, bring their own drinks, bring their own drugs, set up, have their weekend, walk away and somebody has got to clean up, tidy up and suffer the consequences.”

Cr Blake also voiced concerns about drug-taking at the festival.

“We’re not looking at accountability, because when there is a fatality, everyone will say ‘well, we shouldn’t have been having this music festival’,” he said.

“It’s not Woodstock – we’re not talking about a bit of marijuana, we’re talking about very deadly drugs that are finding their way in.

“It seems that we’re giving the tick of approval to this behaviour going on, so I don’t agree with it.”

But Cr Jenny Greenberger said speculation about the behaviour

of patrons at the festival was not grounds for rejecting a planning permit.

“As much as I sympathise with people’s view about the amenity and moral and ethical questions about what may or may not go on within the festival, this is a planning issue,” she said.

“Given the requirements of what we need to do as a planning authority, I think that on those grounds we do need to support the planning application.”

Cr Greenberger said as a member of Northern Grampians Shire’s Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee, MEMPC, prior to nominating for council, she was aware of the planning considerations that went into hosting a music festival.

“Sixteen internal and external agencies have been asked to comment on the application, all of which have no objections to this festival going ahead, but with several seeking to have provisions included in the permit,” she said.

“These, plus others included in order to do everything we can to mitigate the concerns of objectors, have resulted in 68 provisions being made as part of this permit.

“I do sincerely apologise for the inconvenience to the neighbours and those affected, but when all the provisions of the permit are met, which is our expectation, we sincerely hope that the festival will be as minimally disruptive as possible, but also provide benefits to those who see the value in this sort of festival in our local area.”

LOOK AT PEANUT NOW: Gerang Gerung Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre’s Stacy Whitehorse took in a Little Desert National Park bushfire survivor – six-month-old black wallaby ‘Peanut’ – in March. Ms Whitehorse sent The Weekly Advertiser an updated photo showing how well he is going. Peanut, below, is so grown up.

Committed to timely care

G

rampians Health’s Nina Roberts is the Wimmera’s newest nurse practitioner, aiming to provide the best possible care to the elderly population.

Ms Roberts started in the Wyuna sub-acute unit at Wimmera Base Hospital as a graduate registered nurse in 2015, focused on her career and a commitment to both rehabilitation and geriatric evaluation and management.

She said she worked in an associate nurse unit manger role, as a stroke clinical nurse consultant and then as a sub-acute clinical nurse consult before eyeing the nurse practitioner role.

“It was 2020 and at the height of COVID-19 when I started my studies toward my Master of Advanced Clinical Nursing/Nurse Practitioner,” she said.

“Once I completed that, I went on to complete a masters in gerontology so I could provide specialist care in Wyuna. It was a five-year commitment, but I am so happy that I was able to do it.

“My family, friends and close colleagues at work have all been extraordinary at supporting me and helping me to get through,” she said.

Ms Roberts said her new role had aided in creating access to timely geriatrician input, reducing complications that can occur due to lengthy admissions.

“With the formation of Grampians Health, the Horsham campus now has direct access to geriatric care,” she said.

Money for arts, shows, spaces

Community groups at Horsham, Stawell, Donald, Goroke and Hopetoun are among recipients of Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal’s, FRRR, Strengthening Rural Communities program’s $1.2-million funding allocation.

Horsham’s Black Hole Theatre received $10,000 for Stories from the Karen – An Exhilarating Celebration, which is designed to engage young people in the arts and strengthen the resilience of multicultural communities through artist-led storytelling workshops and performances that promote mutual learning and local connection.

Stawell’s Chunky Move’s First Peoples Youth Dance Workshops will use its $10,000 to promote physical wellbeing, cultural connection and participation in the arts through a First Nations dance program for marginalised rural school students.

Donald Learning Group was granted $10,000 for Celebrating the Donald Cultural Connection, to strengthen community connection, inclusion and mental health at an intergenerational multicultural celebration event in a drought-impacted small community.

“I’m able to give families timely updates on a patient’s medical condition. For example, if their loved one is recovering from a stroke, I can have good conversations around what the stroke recovery is looking like and the trajectory of the rehabilitation.

“I’ll chart any recommendations

“The added support of the nurse practitioner role means the Wimmera’s aged community can feel safer, because chronic conditions can be assessed more efficiently and a plan of care can be created to fulfil a better lifestyle.

from the orthopaedic surgeons so the nurses can put things into place, or if the medical team needs to follow up on something, I can help escalate that for them.”

Ms Roberts said she also supported Wyuna’s transitional care program, overseeing patients and ensuring they had the correct follow-up appointments.

She said living in regional Victoria did not limit access to the pathway of becoming a nurse practitioner.

“I really would love for another

nurse to read this and think ‘yes, I can do it. I can be a nurse practitioner’,” she said.

“Studying my Masters in Advanced Clinical Nursing/Nurse Practitioner was achievable as the learning platform was delivered completely online, reducing the need to travel to study.

“There will be times when it will feel difficult, but the end result is so worthwhile and extremely important in supporting the health of our community.”

Goroke Agricultural and Pastoral Society’s project, Connect and Recover Together: 135th Ag Show, will use $10,000 to provide amusements and entertainment at an annual agricultural show to promote social wellbeing and community resilience for a community impacted by drought and bushfires.

Hopetoun Powerhouse’s project, led by Hopetoun and District Neighbourhood House, Powerhouse Studio Shade and Create, received $3000 to create a comfortable, inclusive and energy efficient community space and encourage greater use by installing new blinds to control temperature and privacy.

The grants empower not-for-profit organisations to implement a wide range of projects that will enable their communities to be more vibrant, resilient and sustainable places to live, work and invest. More information about the Strengthening Rural Communities program is available at www.frrr. org.au/src.

Horsham Botanic Gardens

PLANNING: Grampians Health nurse practitioner Nina Roberts checks on transitional care program patient Dianne Schorback.

FAR LEFT: Harmoni Stotten and Deni Neal have fun on the Cha Cha.

LEFT: Brother and sister Jud and Elodie Robinson won a maze competition.

FAMILY: Eden Kelly-Alderson, Trevor Kelly, Dahlia Manu and Kate Kelly.

CAMEL: Emma Matthews and Ruby Matthews wait for a camel ride

DINO FEED: Ron Tickner feeding a dinosaur.

ART: Lyn Mackley with her prize-winning art.

LUCKY: Sisters Letti Purdue and Mia Niblett try their luck.

TREAT: Tim Mudford enjoys a dagwood dog.

Council updates kindergarten plan

Ararat Rural City Council and the State Government will use long-term modelling to cater for kindergarten and pre-prep service demand in the region across the next decade.

The council prepared an updated Kindergarten Infrastructure and Services Plan, KISP, in partnership with the Department of Education as part of the State Government’s Best Start, Best Life reforms.

The KISP modelling projects a shortfall of kindergarten places in Ararat township starting next year, while services in the wider municipality, including at Lake Bolac and Willaura, are forecast to have sufficient capacity until 2036.

The Department of Education will use the updated plan when considering future investment in kindergarten facilities.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the council would continue to work closely with the department and local kindergarten providers –including Y Kinders, which operates sessional kindergarten programs from council-managed facilities – to address demand and ensure families could access services.

Dr Harrison said the council worked with early-years stakeholders in the lead-up to the commencement of pre-prep at the start of 2025, including securing a Building Blocks – Improvement Grant to refurbish Jack and Jill Kindergarten.

He said the council would deliver the project as part of its capital works program for 2025-26.

Dr Harrison said the council had also continued to advocate for facility updates at Ararat North Kindercare, located within Ararat North Primary School, as well as the renewal of aged kindergarten infrastructure.

“This plan is about making sure there are enough kindergarten places in the right locations for our growing community,” Dr Harrison said.

“We know the introduction of pre-prep has doubled hours of attendance, so demand is increasing quickly.

“It is important that families in Ararat have certainty that places will be available close to where they live.

“This updated plan also supports council’s role in working with the Department of Education, service providers and the community to make sure the infrastructure is there when it is needed.

“It’s a collaborative process, and we will continue to advocate strongly for new kindergarten facilities where the evidence shows demand is going to exceed supply.”

The Department of Education will lead the planning for new or extended services in Ararat to address the projected shortfall.

Dr Harrison said the council would keep the community informed as the work progressed.

Horsham on Bluey’s Big Play tour

The hit theatre production Bluey’s Big Play will perform in Horsham next year as part of a global tour.

Based on the ABC television program, the play will be at Horsham Town Hall on August 5, 2026, with tickets to go on sale in February.

Featuring life-sized puppets, the stage show adaption is packed with music, laughter and entertainment for the whole family.

Audiences will get to see Bluey, Bingo, Chilli and Bandit as they’ve never seen them before, as Bluey and her family embark on a unique live-show adventure.

BBC Studios ANZ brands and licensing director Scott Modra said since premiering in Australia in 2020, Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show had toured globally across the UK, Ireland, Canada, the US, Europe, Singapore and South Africa, seen by millions of fans worldwide.

“The love for Bluey continues to grow, and we can’t wait for families around the country to experience the joy, laughter and heart of this special live show – right here on home soil,” he said.

People can book at Horsham Town Hall box office or website horshamtownhall.com.au.

The stage show features original voices from the TV sensation, including the voices of Melanie Zanetti as Chilli and David McCormack as Bandit.

Feel-good beats at Edenhope

A free community event will bring live music, food and community connection to Edenhope.

Lifeforce Edenhope-hosted Bush Beats and Barbecue will feature solo acoustic singer Brylie Chivell and crowd-favourite duo Ally Row, who will also be seen at RegFest 2026, bringing good tunes and great vibes for all ages to enjoy. DJ LCKING will close out the evening.

AFL club Melbourne’s Tom McDonald, originally from Edenhope, will share his insights on health, wellness and resilience, drawing from both his sporting career and his strong ties to the local community.

At Edenhope Recreation Reserve from 5pm on Saturday, October 11, people of all ages are invited bring rugs and chairs, and buy drinks at bar prices – no BYO.

Lifeforce Edenhope is a volunteer-driven community group dedicated to raising awareness around mental health, suicide prevention and overall wellbeing.

Lifeforce aims to create opportunities for people to come together, connect, and support one another – recognising that strong communities are built on meaningful relationships and shared experiences.

Bistro Open 7 Days

Available at lunch & dinner

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

Also available over lunch 11.30am to 2pm, Monday to Friday

Volleyball Horsham, David Berry:

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

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

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

HSCC – “Working for the

ADVENTURE: Chilli, Bluey, Bingo, Bandit and the team from Bluey’s Big Play will entertain at Horsham Town Hall in August.

Shopping Spree Friday, October 3

When you purchase from a participating business, don’t forget to ask for your We Love Stawell card. Bring your card to the MIXX FM Street Team van at Shop 108 Main Street to go into the draw to win!

Friday, Oct 3-17 only!

Butter chicken roll or Eu Gratin roll (vegetarian) with a medium coffee for $10

For lunch a spinach & cottage cheese or butter chicken curry both served with saffron rice for $12

CHARCUTERIE

it’s

GERMANS!!!!

In the CHACUTERIE AWARDS we received:

• GOLD for our chilli cheese Kransky

• GOLD for our traditional Bacon

• SILVER for our chicken cheese & jalapeno kabana

• SILVER for our smoked cheese kranski

• SILVER for our smoked chorizo

• SILVER for our tradition beef kabana

• BRONZE for our Red gum smoked boneless Ham

We are so incredibly proud to share with you our internationally recognised products. Something we pour our heart & soul into everytime we make them!!! Thank you to everyone who has supported us for the almost 10 years we have been in operation!

Open 8am - 8pm everyday except Tuesdays

2/16 Longfield St, Stawell Ph 0451 695 355

Participating Businesses

Auto Pro Stawell

Bi Rite Stawell

Clarks Furniture

Emma Kealy Member for Lowan

Fosters Stawell

Grampians Harvest

Grampians Outdoors

KFC Stawell

Mitre 10 Stawell

Perry’s Footwear

Pyrenees Premium Cuts

Quinn and Co Eyecare

Sneek ‘A’ Peek Boutique

Stawell Alliance Pharmacy

Stawell Cafe & Takeaway

Stawell Lotto

Stawell Paint & Tile Centre

Short Cut Bacon Ham

Cheese Kransky

Beef Kabana

Expect to pay more

Toyota is set to launch the petrol-electric hybrid LandCruiser 300 Series in Australia early next year in high-grade Sahara ZX and GR Sport grades – the importer saying buyers can expect to pay more for the privilege of going green.

While Toyota Australia executives did not elaborate on pricing or specification for the March-release hybridised range, they said a ‘slight price premium’ was to be expected, taking the starting price of the duo from $146,910 and $146,160 plus on-road costs respectively, to a figure that is potentially in the $160,000 range.

Toyota Australia vice-president of sales, marketing and franchise operations Sean Hanley said the performance hybrid model would have a slight premium on it over a conven-

tional hybrid and internal-combustion engine.

“But having said that, it is a really competitive market right now, and it will still remain in a competitive position when pricing is announced next year,” he said.

Toyota Australia senior product planning manager Austin Ward said Australian buyers would have to wait until early in the new year before full details of the LandCruiser 300 Series Hybrid were revealed.

“We will be releasing further specifications closer to the March launch. We are still a number of months away for LandCruiser 300 Series Hybrid, and we will share details in due course,” said.

While already available in other markets, including the Middle East, the specifications of the LandCruiser 300 Series Hybrid are, according to

Toyota Australia executives, subject to change.

“At this stage, performance is obviously the main driver for this product,” Mr Ward said.

“We have only got this model available in our two top grades – we are really positioning it as a hero product of the LC 300 range.

“There will be minor differences between the Australian specification from that of the Middle East market. Obviously, every market has its own

variation on spec. But as I said, we’ll have more information to share as we get closer to the model’s local launch.”

Toyota says the introduction of the five-seat LandCruiser 300 Series Hybrid marks an important step in its multi-pathway approach towards electrification, offering customers a choice of powertrain technologies to support their varied lifestyles.

The model will join the existing turbo-diesel LandCruiser 300 Series

range in giving customers ‘a level of performance never before offered on the nameplate’. Indeed, the combination of a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, electric motor, 10-speed automatic transmission and full-time all-wheel drive will offer LandCruiser 300 Series buyers a substantial increase in performance when weighed against the twin-turbocharged 3.3-litre V6 diesel and its 227kW/700Nm of output.

– Matt Brogan

PREMIUM: Toyota’s incoming LandCruiser 300 Series Hybrid will carry a higher pricetag for going green.

Lepas to enter Australian market

Chery has announced it will launch its offshoot Lepas brand into the Australian market in 2026, bringing with it a ‘new generation of bold, design-led SUVs that blend passion with practicality and speak to drivers seeking more than just functionality’.

Launched globally earlier this year, Lepas is said to combine the words ‘leap’ and ‘passion’ in an attempt to target a youthful audience.

It will join a suite of Chery brands that include Aiqar, Exeed, Exlantix, Himla, iCar, Jaecoo, Jetour, Kaiyi, Karry, Luxeed, Omoda, Rely, and others.

While the Chinese importer has not confirmed which models it intends to offer locally, supplied images of the L8 mid-sized SUV suggest that model is the first cab off the rank.

The Lepas L8 is said to offer leopard-like aesthetics with sleek styling and innovative lighting signatures that target ‘next-generation urban elites’.

It debuted in April this year and has made its way into select markets in Africa, Asia and Russia, with more to come.

The manufacturer says it hopes to sell into a total of 45 countries by the end of 2027.

The 2026 Lepas L8 is available with internal combustion – a turbo-

charged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol – plug-in hybrid, and battery-electric drivelines, though it is unclear which of these options will be offered in Australia.

Lepas said earlier it plans to offer five other models across its range within three years, and aims to sell 500,000 units globally by 2028.

While it is not known in what order the vehicles will be launched, GoAuto understands these will include the L6, L4, L3, L2, and L1, assumedly with each number reflecting the size and position of the vehicle within the Lepas range.

Lepas Australia chief operating officer Lucas Harris said Lepas was

about more than just transport. “It’s about expression, emotion and energy,” he said.

“Australian SUV buyers have had practicality covered for years.

“What they’ve been missing is personality. Lepas delivers both.

“Breaking away from the conventional, responsible-but-boring SUV

“Australian SUV buyers have had practicality covered for years. What they’ve been missing is personality. Lepas delivers both”

– Lucas Harris

category, Lepas introduces a new era of mobility, one that feels as good as it functions.

“From expressive design to vibrant colour palettes and driver-focused interiors, every detail of a Lepas SUV is built to inspire individuality and joy.”

While we will have to wait until close to the model’s Australian launch to learn more about its pricing, specification, and availability, Mr Harris said the future model would combine the versatility and reliability expected of an SUV with advanced features designed for urban and suburban living.

“Customers can expect a suite of modern technologies, premium design elements and practical comforts to suit everyday needs,” he said.

“We are thrilled to bring Lepas to Australia, a market that values both lifestyle and practicality.

“Lepas is a brand for those who want to live life with confidence, colour and style.”

– Matt Brogan

STARTING POINT: Chery

Aaron Dean has over 29 years’ experience in tree trimming, removal clearing. Having worked for the local council, Powercor and various other businesses, Aaron decided to branch out into his own business, Lop The Top – Tree Service. The business first started out as a weekend operation but soon became a full-time job when more and more people contacted Aaron for a variety of work.

Tree trimming and tree removal are the main sectors of Lop The Top – Tree Service, but Aaron also specialises in tight access removals and pruning for homes or business.

With insurance to climb to unlimited heights, Aaron can tame all those tall trees such as palms and large gums using the most up-to-date arborist equipment. He can also supply eucalypt garden mulch by request.

Lop The Top specialises in storm damage and can manage any insurance jobs you may have.

Aaron can work weekends, after hours, as well as emergency callouts.

Lop The Top – Tree Service works within a 100km radius of Horsham. For a free, no-obligation quote contact Aaron at Lop The Top – Tree Service today on 0428 195 090.

Lop The Top - Tree Service

Sudoku

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.

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

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: September 29, 2005 –Rebecca Parfett, Carly Morton, Daniel Bell and Samantha Parfett are pictured in front of a popular shark ride at the annual Horsham Show. Organisers predicted record crowds for the show, with favourable weather and many new attractions.

10 years ago: October 7, 2015

Hopetoun was set to launch a volunteer taxi service for people aged 60 and older who had difficulty getting around the town. A project of Rural Northwest Health, Yarriambiack Shire Council and Gateway BEET, RNH project manager Jo Martin said the service was in response to community need. Fares were a gold coin donation, with the service trialled until Christmas with a view to extend it, depending on success.

Five years ago: October 7, 2020 Melbourne artist David Lee Pereira was applying his work to a Kaniva grain silo, making it the next addition to the region’s Silo Art Trail. He had worked on a range of projects in Melbourne, Sydney and Berlin, as well as the silos at Merriwa in New South Wales the previous year. Western Victorian artist Geoffrey Carran had also started work on the grain solo at Goroke. West Wimmera Shire Council chief executive David Leahy said he was looking forward to welcoming visitors to the region to view the art, once COVID-19 restrictions lifted.

One year ago: October 2, 2024

Award-winning Australian country music singer-songwriter Sara Storer was set to perform at Laharum, as part of a regional Victoria tour. Storer was to be accompanied by her brother Greg Storer, an accomplished musician in his own right, and fiddle player Francis Evans. Storer said she was excited to play at Laharum, as small towns often missed out on seeing live music.

TaKE a BrEaK

yOUr LUCKy sTars

FOR THE WEEK OCTOBER 5 TO OCTOBER 11

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 2, 3, 5, 6

Lotto Numbers: 2, 15, 26, 34, 40, 44

1. Born on this day in 1896 and dying in 1940, was which American author, who wrote the line ‘So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past’, in one of his most well-known novels?

2. What device uses sunlight to tell the time?

3. What were the first names of the Wright brothers, and what were they famous for?

4. In the 2023-24 financial year, about how many Australians donated blood – 300,000; 440,000; 560,000 or 630,000?

5. What does NASA stand for?

6. Until 1820, which fruit did many people in the western world think was poisonous?

7. What was Taylor Swift’s first Billboard Hot 100 number one song?

8. What kind of vehicle was produced after a farmer’s wife wrote to Ford Australia in the 1930s, requesting a vehicle that could serve dual purposes?

9. In what Wimmera centre would you find Lord Nelson Park?

10. Born in 1899 and dying on this day in 1985 was which author, famous for works such as Charlotte’s Web and Stuart Little?

It is an excellent period for blending business with pleasure, provided you keep confidential matters private. A new friend may introduce exciting opportunities, and a Pisces could bring you luck.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 2, 5

Lotto Numbers: 3, 12, 22, 25, 36, 40

Take your time with important tasks to ensure the best results. Keep emotions in check to avoid issues in your romantic life. Acting on facts rather than hearsay will save you trouble.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 1, 6, 5, 2

Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 26, 24, 40, 22

Handle domestic upsets tactfully to ensure they pass quickly. To maintain productivity and focus, avoid taking on more than you can handle in your career.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 5, 3, 6, 9

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 26, 34, 8, 33

Be mindful of potential misunderstandings in your love life or family matters. Travel is likely, and many Cancerians may alter their living arrangements.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 5, 9

Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 29, 34, 8, 11

Back Together’. The song rose from number 72 to number one in a week, marking one of the biggest jumps in chart history. It also set records for digital sales and topped the Hot Country Songs chart, making Swift the country artist with the most top-10 entries at the time.  8. The ute. 9. St

National Aeronautics and Space Administration. 6. Tomatoes. They were wrongly blamed for the deaths of wealthy Europeans, whose illness was actually caused by lead poisoning from their pewter plates. While tomato leaves and stalks are toxic, the fruit is not.  7. ‘We Are Never Ever Getting

Answers: 1. F. Scott Fitzgerald. It was the final line in ‘The Great Gatsby’. 2. A sundial. 3. Wilbur and Orville. They were American pioneers of aviation, credited with inventing, building, and flying the world’s first successful aeroplane, the Wright Flyer, on December 17, 1903, in North Carolina. 4. About 560,000 – which is a shortfall. More than half the population is eligible to donate, but only one in 30 people regularly do. 5.

Arnaud. 10. EB White. ‘Charlotte’s Web’ continues to rate highly in best children’s books polls. Getting

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

Advertising: Mark Sulic: 0407 313 456, marks@team.aceradio.com.au; Lee Meadows: 0407 046 864, leem@team.aceradio.com.au; Kelly Schilling: 0437 894 257, kschilling@aceradio.com.au; Danica Cutter: 0488 473 562, dcutter@aceradio.com.au; Heidi Higginson: 0438 759 220, heidih@aceradio.com.au; Lily Olver: 0411 784 001, lolver@aceradio.com.au Newsroom 5382 1351: Lauren Henry: lhenry@aceradio.com.au; Bronwyn Hastings: bhastings@aceradio.com.au; Colin MacGillivray: cmacgillivray@aceradio.com.au; Georgia

georgiab@team.aceradio.com.au

Stay as polite as possible and avoid unnecessary family friction. Be mindful of overly demanding lovers and ensure your work commitments are up to date.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 2, 6, 3, 2

Lotto Numbers: 2, 15, 24, 10, 33, 36

Confidence and clear communication will serve you well. Those in love may plan for a brighter future, while others might find a new arrival shakes up their routine.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Fawn

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 5, 9, 6, 2

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 26, 24, 40, 22

Ignore snide remarks and jealousy from others – it reflects your popularity. Be considerate to those closest to you, as kindness will take you further.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 3, 2

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 24, 44, 1, 22

Business pressures may arise, so remain pleasant and co-operative with authority figures. Conflicts between home and friends are possible, but family should come first when making decisions.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Dark Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 2, 3

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 20, 27, 33, 41

Negative talk from others may unintentionally benefit you. Your ambitions are strong, but more effort will be required to succeed. Stay determined.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Sunday

Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 6, 2

Lotto Numbers: 8, 15, 26, 34, 40, 22

Friends may take up more time or money than you can afford. It’s wise to set boundaries. Travel plans could face disruptions, so check arrangements thoroughly.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 1, 6, 2, 5

Lotto Numbers: 1, 15, 26, 34, 40, 22

Avoid pushing personal and emotional issues. Giving your partner space will strengthen your relationship. You may have to visit a place you’re not keen on, but it could lead to surprising opportunities.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Mauve

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 1, 6, 5, 2

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 24, 40, 33, 36

Secret relationships or hidden affairs may come to light, causing upheaval. Hard work will pay off, and you will soon see the results of your efforts.

Classifieds

DIWELL, Kenneth George (Ken)

Passed away on September 24th, 2025, aged 83 years.

Dearly loved husband of Nola.

Loving father and father-inlaw of Travis & Taryn and Samara & Simon.

Proud grandpa to Tayah, Matisse, Ashton, Kirrily & Fletcher.

Great grandpa to Andi & Ziggy.

Forever in our hearts.

Horsham & District Funerals

Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149

GEYER, Kevin

The President, Committee and Members of the Horsham Croquet Club Inc regret the passing of our esteemed Life Member, Past President & Club Champion Kevin on the 22-9-25

Sincere sympathy to Kevin’s family

JONES, Sandra Ellen Agnes

Passed away on September 24, 2025. Aged 74 years

Dear friend of Peter & family. Will be sadly missed, now resting in peace.

MUTCH, Betty

Passed away on 20 September 2025 aged 96.

Much loved wife to Robert (Bob) (dec.)

Treasured mother to David, Leslie, Marree and Susan.

Loved Nan to Timothy, Jessica, Aaron, Sheree, Matthew and Great Nan to 7. Forever in our hearts.

Privately cremated

~ PULS ~ Col

Our members & families

extend condolences to the Puls family.

Colin Puls PHF, a member for 43 years, President 20022003, Secretary 2011-2012.

Colin’s service to Rotary International, Rotary Club of Horsham and the wider Horsham community was extensive. A great member and friend who will be sadly missed.

‘Service above self truly achieved’

STEPHENS, Russell Wilfred

Aged 85, died peacefully at Jack Lonsdale Lodge, Sebastopol on Sunday, Septeptember 28, 2025

Loved and loving husband of Elizabeth, father of Patricia, Andrew and Gavin.

Father-in-law of Tony and Karen. Grandfather of Rebecca and Letesha.

Younger son of Lilian Mary and Wilfred Stephens, parents of Elizabeth, Dawn and Linton (all dec).

An especially big thank you to all the staff at Jack Lonsdale Lodge

WEBB, Cyril Herbert

20.6.1925 - 29.9.2025 Aged 100 Dearly loved Dad to Robin and Maureen Pa to Matt, Sonia, Tim and Kath

Great Pa to Lara, Milla, Indy, Becky and Penny

Will be sadly missed Rest in Peace

WEBB, Cyril Herbert 100 years young

Will be sadly missed by wife Florence and stepchildren, Keith, Sue, Jenny and Peter Grandchildren, Harry, Elliot and Charlie Rest in Peace

DIWELL, Kenneth George (Ken)

The graveside service for the late Mr. Kenneth Diwell will be held at Horsham Lawn Cemetery on Monday, October 6, 2025 commencing at 1pm

Amity & Dylan Hartwich 5382 1149

Thank

you

~ PEKIN ~ Lorna Rees

Perhaps you sent a lovely card, or sat quietly in a chair, Perhaps you sent those lovely flowers, that we saw sitting there, Perhaps you spoke the kindest words, as any friend could say, Perhaps you were not there at all, just thought of us that day.

Whatever you did to console our hearts, we thank you so much for whatever part.

Our heartfelt thanks to the staff at Natimuk Nursing Home, Wimmera Funerals and Donna Coutts. With sincere thanks, Francis, Je , Robyn and Families.

Port Fairy 4-bedroom off-peak escape, ocean views, just $1140! Call Langley’s now to book 0355682899

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

Cast iron bath, good nick, needs reno $250ono Ph 0407302144

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

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

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

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

Two four month old baby lovebirds, complete with cage $150 Ph 0457292379 Minyip

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

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

your wishes with Trevor Bysouth & Daughter of 5381 1444 (All Hours) www.wimmerafunerals. com.au I’m so

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#

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

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 Caravan 2015 Jayco starcraft, 16ft, queen sized bed, tv, full sized fridge freezer, microwave, gas electric hotplates and oven, toilet and shower, full annex, sway bars $36,000 ono Ph 0417573022

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Death Notices

Funeral Directors

Animals & Accessories accommodation antiques

caravans

caravans

Death Notices

Animals & Accessories

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 pullie, 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

Ferguson Grey Tea 20 , egnine rebuild, trans resealed, new steering wheel and dash, brake recline, good tyres, good HYD system, new paint, POA, inspection invited Ph 0429491426

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

12x6 Tandem flat top trailer $2000 Ph 0448814006

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

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

Camping Equipment, including as new Yamaha 2KVa inverter generator never used, aqua cube shower, porta potty, Komodo pantry, and clothesline $2500 Ph 0458683879

CCE cage on wheels 6x4 well made $400 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

Omega gold watch , approx 65yrs old, still keeps perfect time $1500ono Ph 0458014560

Pea straw small square bales, $7 per bale, great garden mulch, pickup or delivery to Horsham Ph 0488303725

Round bale hay ring $350 Ph 0429200566

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

Extreme Motorboat , low hours, well maintained, $45,000 Ph 0428788212

Landcruiser Prado 150 alloy nudge bar series 31/8/90, PZQ2960420, serial# 0110 $155 Ph 53569340 or 0412482521 Landsborough

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

Pietscraft 3.5m Fishing Boat, 15hp, Johnson tilt trailer, boat cover, all accessories $5000 Ph 0428822730

Stacer Aluminium fishing boat, 25 horsepower Yamaha outboard motor, trailer & boat registered, VGC $6000 Ph 0498549832

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

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

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

1994 Ford ED Futura Auto 4.0i, drives strong, great duco, no RWC or rego $5500 Ph 0409423541

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

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

Ford BF Sedan 2005, dual fuel, ex cond, 280,000kms, WIY315 $4500 Ph 0468 559 166

2013 XLT Ranger, 3.3ltr, 6spd manual, towbar, bullbar, pedal torque, dual battery system, light bar, fridge slide, clearview mirrors, snorkel, excellent condition $19,000ono Ph 0428848203

Commodore VS Series 2 Ute, auto, very good order, 139,000kms, OFF349 $10,500 Ph 0427894200

2005 Isuzu NPR250 car license truck, 6 months rego, 230,000kms,

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

2011 Honda 750 Shadow Shaft, as new cond, reg til 2/26, spares inc some new, 27,700kms $5250 Ph 0488023477

REDUCED BMW R1200RT

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

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

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

2006 Nissan Patrol GU MY06 DX Wagon, auto, 3-0 4x4, RWC, 350,000kms, BCO713 $16,500 Ph 0448814006

2008 PJ Ford Ranger Supercab C/C with alloy tray, tinted windows, side steps, driving lights, winch, tow mirrors, dual batteries, CB Radio, near new tyres, RWC, Reg ZWA437 until December, 197,000km’s $12,000 Ph Jim 0418126577

minimal towing $45,000 inc Gst Ph Andrew 0427923236

2019 Mercedes Benz GLC 250 diesel auto, immaculate condition, Obsidian black with black leather interior, 1PA2OF, 91,*** kms $40,000 neg Ph 0488131206

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 042748297

The Weekly Advertiser welcomes your advertising. We are required strictly by law to include specific information on some items when publishing your advertisement. A snapshot of your obligations are as follows: ROAD VEHICLESAll advertisements for road vehicles must include a price, as well as:

• A registration number, if registered

• Either an engine number, VIN or chassis number if the vehicle is not registered.

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

Ararat man, 67 years old, interests include gym, fishing, camping, singing, acting, Lions Club, bushwalking, ballroom dancing, looking for a lady aged between 40-70 years old, Ph 0467791009

Ararat

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

Looking to Buy a Home in Horsham I’m a genuine buyer seeking a house in Horsham. If you’re considering selling-now or in the near future-please get in touch. No agents, just a straightforward sale, any condition considered, call or text Ara on 0425906535

Funeral remembrance

videos edited with cherished media by professional, each project individual, AI photo restoration available Ph 0478609837

Keyte’s mowing service , lawn mowing, lawn aeration (coring), block slashing, general pruning Ph 53826461 or 0429309491

Massage ......Don’t deprive yourself of time to be completely pampered, to made feel like you’ve not felt in a very long time, discreet in all aspects, is here at your service, can have all your sensual desires catered for including massage oils to help you relax, feel comfortable and put you in a state of euphoria, clean in all regards, a safe home environment, including off street parking that you can arrive at your appointment at ease, catering for both male and female Ph 0422275320

Sheep slaughtered at $15 per head Ph Andy 53838240

TOP STUDENT TUTORING, one-to-one individualised tutoring for Years 7-12 English, working with Children Check Ararat & Stawell, email Philippa: philippak1@bigpond. com

Wanted Land to share-farm or lease anywhere south of Horsham and accross to the Grampians, from 50 to 600 acres, cropping country preferred Ph Roger Hallam at Mockinya 0418822700

Wanted, Billy Goat service for 2 milking goats Ph 53840253

wanted to buy

2 tanker loads of water as running low Nhill area cash paid ph 53928295 and leave message

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

Books that Influence

whose life has been transformed by reading the Bible. Who found that God is real, alive, speaks to our hearts and works in our lives. Whose attitude, relationships and life are very different from previously. Wikepedia tells us that according to the Guinness World Records, as of

Christian Devotion

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FRIDAY,

All welcome

Due

Accounting Cadetship – Start Your Career Locally!

Location: Green Taylor Partners – Horsham, VIC

Position Type: Full Time (with part-time university study)

Are you finishing Year 12? Taking a gap year? Or maybe you’re already at uni but dreaming of coming home?

Green Taylor Partners is on the lookout for a motivated and enthusiastic young person to join our Accounting Cadetship Program. This is a rare opportunity to earn while you learn – working full-time in a supportive professional environment, while studying your accounting degree part-time off-campus.

What We’re Looking For:

We’re not just after someone who’s great at maths

– we want someone with:

• A strong work ethic

• Self-motivation and initiative

• Clear communication skills

Why Choose Green Taylor Partners?

• Work locally in a respected professional firm

• Get hands-on experience and mentorship

• Join a team that values your growth and development

• We have a proven record with Cadets

How to Apply:

Email your resume and covering letter to careers@greentaylor.com.au

of accountants.

Subject line: Cadet application

Questions? Call Vicky McClure on (03) 5382 4761

Green Taylor Partners is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.

Project Administration & Procurement Officer

Immediate Start | Applications close 17/10/2025 (or earlier if filled)

Are you organised, detail-driven and ready to step into a career that keeps local projects moving?

We’re a thriving, locally-owned business with a team of 85+ people — and growing — and we’re looking for someone with strong administration or procurement skills! Why join us?

• Full training provided

• Work directly with senior management and project teams

• Immediate start available

• Supportive, friendly team culture that values accuracy, growth and reliability

• Clear career pathway into construction project estimating What you’ll do:

• Assist with preparing and reviewing supplier quotes and pricing

• Liaise with suppliers and subcontractors to source the right products and services

• Accurately enter and manage data for project costing

• Support project managers with administration and reporting

What we need from you:

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy – a MUST

• Administration, procurement, or office experience highly regarded

• A can-do attitude and willingness to learn new systems and processes

• Confidence using computers and spreadsheets Ready to apply?

Don’t wait! This is your chance to step into a long-term, secure career in a business that values its people.

To apply, email your resume to: hrwhs.horsham@laserelectrical.com.au Confidentiality will be assured Laser Horsham

Accountant

Location: Green Taylor Partners – Horsham, VIC

Salary: Remunerated on experience

Are you ready to take the next step in your accounting career—without sacrificing work-life balance?

Green Taylor Partners is looking for an experienced and motivated accountant to join our team. Why join us?

At Green Taylor Partners, we’re more than just accountants—we’re a tight-knit, professional team with a diverse skill set, committed to providing exceptional service to individuals and businesses of all sizes.

We offer:

∙ A supportive team culture

∙ Opportunities for growth and leadership

∙ Flexibility to suit your lifestyle

∙ A variety of work across different entities and industries

About the role:

You will be responsible for delivering high-quality accounting outcomes across a broad client base.

Your day-to-day will include:

∙ Preparing and reviewing financial statements and tax returns

∙ Tax planning and analysis

Preparing BAS and assisting with clients business needs

∙ Applying technical accounting knowledge to client work

Who we’re looking for:

∙ Prior experience in Australian Public Practice preferred

Strong technical accounting skills

High attention to detail and ability to work independently

∙ Excellent communication and client service skills

∙ SMSF compliance experience preferred but not essential

∙ We welcome applications from candidates seeking full-time or part-time roles

How to apply:

Email your resume and cover letter to: careers@greentaylor.com.au

Please use the subject line: “Accountant application”

For more information, contact Vicky McClure on (03) 5382 4761.

Green Taylor Partners is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.

from 6am to 9am

Junior spirit shining under spotlight

Horsham District Football Netball League and Wimmera Football Netball League award one under-17 footballer and one 17-and-under netballer a spirit of sport award each playing round. The Spirit of Football and Spirit of Netball awards are presented by either Victoria Police officers or Blue Ribbon Foundation members.

five

Ivy McLaren – HDFNL

Kaniva-Leeor United netballer Ivy McLaren, pictured with Kaniva Police Constable Liv Bedggood and club president Tyson Vivian, competes to her utmost week in, week out. She gives her best for the team and the club, and shows total respect for team-mates, coaches, opposition players and umpires, on and off the court.

round. Awardees from both Horsham District and Wimmera leagues will be published as they are presented with their awards.

Round 13

Flemming – WFNL

Stawell footballer James Fleming is a strong running footballer with great endurance and tenacity. He has been a leader on the field for the Warriors’ under-17 team and has also displayed wonderful sportsmanship throughout the year. James is pictured with Stawell First Constables Todd Stephenson and Chun Ngan.

Round 14

Addison Lardner –WFNL Ararat netballer Addison Lardner is an involved member of the club, and is very versatile. She generally plays in defence. Her skills and ability to intercept the ball make her a valuable member of the team. She leads by example, advocates for her team and fosters a positive and respectful playing experience. Addison is pictured with Ararat Constable Astrid Jolley.

At the Exchange Hotel Horsham, we believe a great team makes great food. We're on the lookout for a passionate Chef who thrives in a supportive, upbeat environment where teamwork is everything. Here, you won't just be cooking - you'll be part of a crew that has each other's backs, celebrates the wins, and makes even the busiest shifts enjoyable. We pride ourselves on creating delicious, high-quality meals while keeping a fun, positive vibe in the kitchen.

What we offer:

- A friendly, supportive team where your ideas matter

- A chance to cook quality food with fresh ingredients

- A dynamic, energetic workplace - no two days are the same

- Management that values balance and backs you all the way

What we're looking for:

- A Chef with passion, creativity, and drive

- Someone who works well with others and enjoys being part of a team

- Reliability, pride in your work, and a positive attitude

If you're looking for more than just a job - if you want a kitchen where you feel supported, valued, and part of something great - we'd love to hear from you. Apply now to exchangehotel@live.com.au and join the Exchange Hotel family!

Round 15

Daniell – HDFNL

Noradjuha-Quantong footballer Harrison Daniell, pictured with Horsham police officer Sam Foster, is an outstanding young man who is highly respected by his team-mates and club officials. He puts in grand efforts at training and around the club – on the ground he is captain and leads by example for his team-mates. Harry plays the game hard, but always fair.

and

Horsham

Lauren Barton and

Brown, has played footy at Horsham Saints since his first year in Auskick, becoming an integral part of the under-17 team. His courage and tenacity at the ball can never be questioned, and his willingness to backup and play reserves footy – and play well – is a credit to him and his commitment to being the best footballer he can be. Max will never shirk a club task, whether it be running boundary or a canteen shift, and is a popular member of his club among his peers.

or email your resume to: lee.mckenzie@education.vic.gov.au

Round

Round 16

James

Max Murray – WFNL

Saints footballer Max Murray, pictured with Horsham Senior Constable

Constable Clayton

Harrison

Jeremy Williamson – WFNL

Warrack Eagles footballer Jeremy Williamson, pictured with Warracknabeal Senior Constable Lauren Cole, is a tall, solid ruckman who works hard all around the ground. He is a great off-field leader and has also displayed wonderful versatility, playing up forward

down back when required. He has shown great sportsmanship throughout the year.

Blue Ribbon Foundation spirit of football and netball awards are presented to players when Blue Ribbon and police members are available, which may result in awards presented during a later

Situations Vacant

Situations Vacant

Situations Vacant

Co-coach cleared in messy chapter

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Amessy chapter in the Wimmera Foot-

ball Netball League’s history drew to a close last week as the league cleared Ararat senior co-coach Tom Williamson following a multi-week investigation.

Williamson had been accused of making a vilifying gesture towards Southern Mallee Thunder opponent Kai Sheers during Ararat’s second semi-final loss to the Thunder on September 6.

The incident saw Williamson receive his second yellow card of the match, automatically incurring a red card that saw him sent from the ground in the shock Rats loss.

Williamson faced potential suspension stemming from the incident but was allowed to play as the league conducted its investigation, which concluded on Wednesday last week –four days after the grand final and more than two weeks after Williamson was initially reported.

Williamson won the Binns Medal as the best player in the grand final, helping Ararat to its third straight senior premiership.

In a statement issued last week the league found Williamson had no case to answer.

“The WFNL, with support from the AFL Integrity Team, has scrutinised the match vision and provided statements,” the statement read.

“Consequently, the WFNL was not reasonably satisfied that a vilifying act had occurred

and as such the notice of report would not be pursued. However, some persons may now be subject to further investigation under national policies as a result of statements provided.

“The WFNL’s strong position on providing a safe and inclusive environment for our members remains as one of our highest of priorities, but in this matter, we have been charged to make a decision based on evidence and this is what we have done.”

Ararat president David Hosking said the club, which stood behind Williamson during the investigation, was relieved to have closure on the case.

He said he hoped the league would offer an apology to Williamson, but that the club was prepared to move on whether or not he received one.

“There was a pretty significant racial connotation to this, and when you start labelling people racist it’s a really unsavoury thing to be launching at people,” he said.

“I’ve known Tom Williamson a long time –he’s not racist.

“Once you call someone a name, no matter what happens after that lots of people run with it and stuff sticks.

“If I called someone a racist down the street and it turned out they weren’t one, wouldn’t the expectation be that I’d apologise for that?

“We’ve been adamant Tom’s not a racist, and that has been confirmed in all of this. Everyone has got to move on with their lives now.”

PRESTIGIOUS: Kerry Henry last week added her name to a list of winners of Horsham Golf Club’s prestigious Royal Melbourne Silver Salver event. The Royal Melbourne Golf Club donated the trophy salver to Horsham Golf following the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires that affected the Horsham course. Ms Henry, pictured with the trophy, shot a nett 70 to win the competition.

Muszkieta wins New South Wales races

Horsham Racing Pigeon Club released 16 members’ birds from two New South Wales locations on Friday: 265 pigeons at Tibooburra and 312 at Packsaddle.

John Muszkieta won both events.

The Tibooburra winner flew the 809 airline kilometre averaging 74kph and 1233 metres a minute.

Bruce Rentsch’s second-placed

bird averaged 71kph and 1181 metres a minute. The McPhee family’s third-placed pigeon flew 69.5kph and 1160 metres a minute.

Australian racing pigeons have improved across the decades. It is now common for contemporary bloodlines to complete an 800-kilometre flight on the day of release, with time to spare.

The 680-kilometre Packsaddle

race saw a slightly slower average velocity – 69kph or 1144 metres a minute. Kevin King’s second-placed bird arrived home 10 minutes after the winner, averaging 67.5kph or 1125 metres a minute.

The season’s final race on the southeast line will be from Sale – a 510-kilometre flight, weather permitting, in coming days.

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Excitement for the 2025 Coun-

try Basketball League, CBL, season is building ahead of this weekend’s first round, with Horsham re-launching its senior women’s team while its men attempt to defend their 2024 premiership, and Ararat seeks to push up the ladder.

The Hornets’ women will return after a one-year hiatus after withdrawing due to a lack of player numbers last season, but coach Jordyn Burke said player unavailability would be no issue this year.

“The numbers that we’ve got involved are exciting, and the number of players that tried out as well,” he said.

“There’s a bit of youth mixed with a bit of experience and a few new faces who are keen to play well.”

Former Hornets returning to play in this year’s women’s side include Georgia Hiscock, Jess Cannane and Shannon Reinheimer, while new faces including Georgie Carberry, Jorja Clode and Jedda Heard will help round out the squad.

Burke said members of Horsham’s under-18 girls squad would also earn senior playing opportunities.

With a new-look squad, Burke said he had set no expectations for 2025, but that he hoped the Hornets would be competitive.

Hornets squads

The team will begin its campaign with a road game against Warrnambool this Sunday.

“We’re straight into the fire, but it’ll be a good one to see where we’re at,” he said.

“We’ve got a couple of road trips first up, so it’ll put us under the pump, but it will hopefully set the tone for a good year.

“We’re just excited to have female basketball at CBL level back in the Wimmera and back in Horsham. It’s really good, and the support has been fantastic.”

Men

The Hornets’ men will also have a new look in 2025 as they seek to defend their south west conference premiership.

Last season’s leading scorer and grand final best-on-court winner Austin McKenzie is a big loss for the Hornets, while brothers Matt and Jono Lovel, Jake Hobbs, Freddie Frew and Charlie Campbell will also depart.

But coach Scott Benbow said the retention of 2024 conference most valuable player Micah Livingstone and some exciting young recruits boded well for the Hornets’ future.

“It’s a new-look side. We’re going to be faster than last season, but not quite as big or as experienced, so it’s going to be interesting to see what we can do,” he said.

“Having Levi Munyard coming into

the side having played at the under-18 national championships with Micah is going to be a hell of an inclusion.

“Tim McCormick, our new assistant coach, comes in as well as a guard.

“Judd Wright has been impressive at training. He’s a great athlete – very explosive.

“Zac Smith has come back after a couple of years away from basketball to concentrate on his footy. He was an outstanding junior and he’s fitted back into it nicely in a backup guard role.

“We’ve got some development players like Harry Miller and Jaxon Crooks who will get to experience training with us to try to earn a spot later on down the line.”

Benbow said the Hornets had also retained enough of their championship core to give themselves a chance

“We’re just excited to have female basketball at CBL level back in the Wimmera and back in Horsham. It’s really good, and the support has been fantastic”

– Jordyn Burke, left

to defend their title. “We’ve still got Mitch Martin as captain of the side, Cody Bryan who is the three-time reigning defensive player of the year and Micah has only gotten better,” he said.

“If we can get there at the business end of the season we’ll give ourselves a chance, and hopefully that experience of being the reigning champions will still count for something.”

The Hornets’ men will also start their season on the road, playing against the Terang Tornadoes on Saturday night before a game in Warrnambool on Sunday afternoon.

The Ararat Redbacks have reappointed coach Josh Fiegert as they seek to improve on a 3-7 campaign that saw them finish seventh on the ladder last season.

The Redbacks were forced to postpone their scheduled first-round match due to low player numbers and administrative issues, and will make their season debut in round two with a triple-header, playing two road games and one home game.

Badminton come-and-try

Horsham Badminton Association will host a free come-and-try night on Monday.

The event will be at Horsham College’s gymnasium on Baillie Street from 7pm, with racquets available for beginners to use.

The association’s weekly spring competition will begin the following week, on Monday, October 13.

President Luke Dunn said the competition was played in a round-robin format, giving players the flexibility to turn up and play on nights that suited them.

“We cater for all abilities and have a vast array of ages amongst our members. This is a great opportunity for anyone considering badminton as a sport to come and try in a fun and enjoyable atmosphere,” he said.

Wortley in form

Horsham Golf Croquet’s Saturday competition saw David Wortley win division one, with Donna Frost in second place.

Greg Phillips won division two, ahead of Elaine Nicholls, with Lorna Mills and Dawn Scott heading division three.

Thursday’s event saw Shirley Price win division one ahead of Glenn Price, Rob Bahr win division two with Greg Phillips runner-up, and Dawn Scott win division three ahead of Kerrie Brody.

Senior tennis competition hits off

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Central Wimmera Tennis Association’s pennant competition will have a new look in 2025-26, with Drung South dropping back to A Special and leaving the toptier competition with only four sides.

CWTA president Rod Shurdington said the association would explore options to expand its pennant competition in future seasons, including reaching out to other associations and clubs.

“We probably need to reach out to outlying areas like Stawell and Warracknabeal to see if they want to be part of our pennant competition, or

whether there’s any interest in putting in a representative team from their area,” he said.

“That’s something we’ll need to start working on for next year before the season closes, not in August or September.

“We’ve changed the format over the years in pennant so it matches A Special and only the top two play singles, but it doesn’t seem to have resulted in more being willing to go up to pennant.

“We talked this year about whether Horsham Lawn or Central Park could put teams up, because they’re well represented in the A Special grade. Those clubs probably had the men to

do it but not the depth in their ladies.”

The pennant competition has reconfigured its finals series, playing an extra round of the home-and-away season, with the minor premier to advance directly to the grand final while the second and third-place finishers play off in a preliminary final for the right to challenge them.

Shurdington said the association remained healthy overall, with solid team numbers in other grades.

“We’ve got plenty of teams in A Special, A Grade and B Special as well. Across the juniors we’re probably six teams down on what we had last year,” he said.

“Some of that is due to other sports.

“Kids drift into some sports and then out of them and into other ones, so some of them might be playing basketball or cricket.

“We’ve also had some families move away from the area and some kids go off to boarding school, which makes it a bit harder as well.

“We’re facing the same challenges as all sports – getting kids to stay and keep participating. That starts with the families encouraging their kids to play as well.”

Shurdington said he was ‘really excited’ about the emerging junior talent in the association.

“We’ve got some ripper juniors coming through and our open jun-

ior competition is going to be quite strong,” he said.

“That’s a good thing. A lot of those juniors play afternoon tennis in the seniors as well.

“We can’t promote our junior players enough. They’re the future of tennis in the Wimmera. We just need to get as many kids on the court as possible and then help funnel them up through the ranks.”

The pennant season will open on Saturday with reigning premier Horsham Lawn facing Kalkee and St Michaels playing Central Park, both matches at Horsham Lawn. Junior competition will commence the following weekend.

Chance to try croquet

Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly chief executive Tony Caccaviello, pictured centre, left, opened the 2025-26 Horsham Croquet Club season, saying the assembly’s mission was to make the community as active as possible.

“Sport’s about a little bit more than just the actual game you play,” he said.

“It’s about being active and connecting. And I think any sport, but particularly croquet, does that so well. And the facilities here in Horsham are second to none.”

The club will host a come-and-try day on Sunday, promoting its sport as a fun and challenging game in tranquil surrounds, where people can make new friends and enjoy passive exercise.

The open session begins at 2pm at the club, near Horsham Botanic Gardens.

People can call Rachel Cousins on 0418 553 192 or June Liddy 0422 509 796 for more information.

from 6am to 9am

Horsham teams raise bar at titles

BY DAVID BERRY

Volleyball

Horsham teams took home several medals from this year’s Volleyball Victoria Country Championships, staged in Horsham at the weekend.

The first gold medal in the under-15 age group augurs well for the future of girls’ volleyball for Volleyball Horsham.

After winning one set – albeit at under-17 level last year – the Volleyball Horsham under-15 team benefitted from the return of national youth championship participant Drew Armstrong, winning its gold qualifier against Sunraysia in straight sets before defeating Macedon Ranges in four sets in the gold medal match.

Coach Ella Van Duren said the girls were getting better as each game went by, with Armstrong’s inclusion a factor in the outcome.

“While their training preparation wasn’t ideal, the girls needed the earlier games to get used to each other, and by the time Sunday came around, we knew we were going to be better,” Van Duren said.

“Drew was just the icing on the cake.”

Under-15 boys

If the girls have not set the bar for the future, the under-15 boys certainly have, despite not getting the gold medal they craved.

In their first outing as a team, the stars of tomorrow stole the show when they staged an epic five-setter in their gold-medal match against Sunraysia.

The boys had already made a stamp when they staged the longest match of the tournament in the round games, coming from two sets down against Sunraysia girls on Saturday, to win a five-setter that went for two hours and nine minutes.

In the gold-medal match, the boys led two sets to one, but it was some Sunraysia heat on serve that got the northern visitors back in the match, and levelled the match at two sets all.

In the fifth, Sunraysia again bought the heat, eventually winning 15-10.

Coach Tim Carter was full of praise for his young charges.

“I couldn’t be prouder of how the boys fought the game out, given they didn’t have the experience that Sunraysia had,” he said.

“They showed great fight and played for each other, it was all you could ask as a coach.

“They certainly have bright futures and, given what they have achieved here on such a limited preparation, if they stick with it, they won’t be winning silver medals, they’ll be winning more than they lose.”

Other medal winners

The under-17 teams’ bronze medals were considered successful, as the competition in both the boys and girl’s

levels were of a high standard. South Gippsland was the standout in the age group as its girls went back-to-back, while its boys were too strong for Sunraysia in the gold-medal match.

Volleyball Horsham’s girls won bronze when they defeated Warrnambool in four sets after splitting their results with their southern visitors in the round matches.

Coach Matt McLoughlin was pleased with the result.

“I believe the girls showed great character, because Warrnambool got us in five on the first day and Geelong smashed us late on Friday night in a game that started at 11.30pm and finished at 12.30am.

STAR:

Bonnie Grieger was awarded the under-17 girls’ All Stars best libero.

“That would have been a first for them, playing so late, but that is how country champs work – the uncontrollable nature of when games occur can certainly throw teams out.

“I think playing the game on Saturday night against South Gippsland where they took a set off them gave the team great confidence going into their bronze-medal match and that showed.”

For the under-19 girls, the dream of back-to-back golds came to an end when they were beaten in five sets by Goulburn Valley on Saturday afternoon.

Needing to win after five-set losses to Latrobe Valley and Goulburn Valley

and a four-set loss to Sunraysia on day one, the girls showed great character to come out and defeat Latrobe Valley in four sets to claim the bronze.

Coach Molly Carter was not disappointed with the result.

“The standard of the girls’ competition was another step up for our girls, and while we didn’t get the results on day one we wanted, to bounce back showed great character,” she said.

“For some of our girls it would have been a real eye opener, and they should take that on board to help them going forward.”

Award winners

While medals are what teams crave, individuals were also recognised from the tournament.

Paige Hemley was awarded the under-19 girls MVP, while Clare Whyte was judged as the division’s best setter.

James Johns was included in the under-19 boys All Star Seven, Fletcher Hawken and Malakai Van Buuren in the under-17 All Stars, Bonnie Grieger was the under-17 girls’ All Stars best libero, Gurshaan Singh Marwaha, Kyle Van As and Roan Prasad were in the under-15 boys and Stella Angue and Maci James in the under-15 girls’ All Stars.

Laelah Robertson was the referee of the tournament, with Rachel Reichelt receiving the referee encouragement award.

Horsham – Applications close: ASAP

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For more information contact Simon Rohde on 0428 971 821 for a confidential discussion.

Airconditioning & Refrigeration Apprenticeship

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• Up to $10K in government incentives available for eligible apprentices

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• Career Pathway toward secure and sustainable employment within a high-demand industry

Start your career in Airconditioning & Refrigeration! Join a dynamic team, learn hands-on and build future-ready skills in a high-demand industry.

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• Able to work at heights & in various weather conditions

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General Labourer / Plant Operator

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• Reputable locally owned civil construction company

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Horsham – Applications close: ASAP

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• Students, Back packers & Grey nomads encouraged

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COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS:

Hundreds of volleyballers gathered in Horsham at the weekend for the Volleyball Victoria Junior Country Championships. Pictured in action are, Volleyball Horsham members, clockwise from left: Serena Johns; Zane Joseph; Molly Gawith; James Johns; the goldwinning under-15 team; Malachy O’Brien; and centre,Victoria Brown. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

GOLD: From left, the winning team, Maci James, assistant coach Janay Van Buuren, Stella Angue, Drew Armstrong, coach Ella Van Duren, Sasha Hinch, Emily Johns, Tiffany Petering, Chassidy Loresco, Averil Jones, and captain Eden Pumpa.

your solar, heating, cooling & electrical specialists

In October 1985, Dennis and Nola Wade purchased a modest but promising business at 70 Hamilton Street, Horsham, known as Keam’s Gas Supplies from Murray and Dot Keam. This marked the beginning of a bold new chapter in their lives. Dennis brought with him a varied background, having worked as an electrical mechanic, smallgoods salesman, Arnott’s biscuit representative, and supermarket manager at SSW. From the outset, the business diversified. Alongside residential and industrial gas supply, Wades began selling Haymes industrial paint.

In 1987, to grow this arm of the business, Dennis purchased the Haymes paint agency from John Stekelenburg and enlisted his younger brother Wally – a skilled painter – to assist in the shop and with deliveries. This marked a turning point, and the business was rebranded Wades Gas and Paint. Their partnership with Heatane Gas – a government-owned supplier – opened the door to expanding their offerings in gas appliances and services.

Proud to congratulate Wade’s on an incredible 40 years of success. Your dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence have made you a trusted name in the community.

In the early 1990s, the Wades partnered with Barry and Dawn Smith, branching into wood heating and air conditioning. At the same time, they took on local gas servicing, previously managed by the Gas and Fuel Corporation under Keith Murdock. Employing licensed plumbers and gas fitters, the business expanded significantly.

Cheers to Wade’s on your 40th

In 1994, their son Adrian took a gap year from university joined the business – he never left. He would go on to dedicate more than 30 years to the family business, retiring last year. Wades also established a major gas distribution centre at Turnbull Drive known as Wades West Gas, managed by Wally, who later purchased and ran the business until his untimely passing in Wades endured many challenges – including the financial strain of the early 1990s, when interest rates soared above 20 per The paint division moved to Sloss Street, and the Hamilton Street site underwent numerous renovations. One memorable job involved relocating a two-tonne ex-bank safe five times – a herculean but the safe remains in use at the Pynsent Street location.

Congratulations to Wade’s on reaching this remarkable 40-year milestone!

Rinnai celebrates your legacy of quality, service, and strong relationships built over four decades.

extends heartfelt congratulations to Wade’s for 40 years of business excellence.

Your continued growth and impact are truly

and dedicate The Turnbull later in 2020. strain cent. Street involved herculean task,

1997 – When their daughter Belinda left the business to explore other opportunities, Adam Jolley applied for her position. Standing nearly two metres tall, Adrian saw more than a potential employee – he saw a ruckman for his footy side –and hired Adam on the spot. Together, they would become the next custodians of Wades.

1998 – Belinda eventually returned from Central Australia, resuming her role in the business and later marrying Adam. Together, Adrian and Adam would become the next custodians of Wades. Under their leadership, Wades expanded further, now employing a large team of plumbers, electricians, and administrative staff, with about halfa-dozen staff who have been there more than 10 years.

On the occasion of Wade’s 40th anniversary, Seeley International is pleased to recognize your remarkable dedication, professionalism, and contributions to the community and industry.

We proudly congratulate Wade’s on reaching four decades of business success.

Your accomplishments reflect the highest standards of quality and service.

In October 2013, Wades expanded their paint division by opening the Wades Paint and Colour Centre at 14A Sloss Street, Horsham. As a trusted stockist of Haymes Paints, they offer a wide selection of interior and exterior paints, catering to DIY enthusiasts and professional painters alike.

2025, today – Adrian retired in 2024 and the business was sold to Adam – Wades continued to expand. Adam now oversees about a dozen apprentices, working between plumbing and gasfitting, refrigeration and electrical, as well as school-based apprentices and VET students. Adam oversees the team’s work in its 100-kilometre radius of Horsham. Alongside general manager Michelle Khan who ensures the smooth day-to-day running of what has become one of the region’s most respected service and trade businesses. Looking forward, the team is meeting more demand for solar energy appliances and equipment. It’s been a fair journey and the next chapter is well underway.

We commend Wade’s for your resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication to your customers

What an achievement - forty years in busine !

The team at Wade’s would like to thank our partners and customers for their continued support and look forward to working alongside you for many years to come