Horsham District Football Netball League hosted its best and fairest awards on Monday night, in front of hundreds of people at Coughlin Park Community Centre.
Pictured is Dellar medallist Matthew Rosier, of Pimpinio, who won the senior football best and fairest, and Michele Mibus medallist Lavinia Fox, playing coach of EdenhopeApsley, who took out the A Grade netball best and fairest. Full coverage, pages 44 and 45.
Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
BY LAUREN HENRY
Atumultuous week for the Wimmera Football Netball League has resulted in the resignation of its chairman.
Peter ‘Billy’ Ballagh announced on Monday his resignation, effective immediately, following a tough week at league headquarters.
The controversy began with a scoring discrepancy that altered the result of an A Grade netball elimination final on August 31, prompting Ararat Football Netball Club to call for a review and independent investigation.
The WFNL board came under fire after ruling that although agreeing that Ararat was ahead 48-47 at the final siren upon review of the match video, because both captains signed the scoresheet, Southern Mallee
Thunder would retain the win. The Thunder had gone on to win 62-55 in extra time, ending Ararat’s season.
Ararat argued league bylaws were not followed because its scorer did not sign the scoresheet.
Tensions then boiled over at Minyip on Saturday, as a fiery and physical senior football semi-final played out between Ararat and Southern Mallee Thunder.
Rats co-coach and last year’s league best and fairest Tom Williamson received two yellow cards, which resulted in him being sent from the field on two occasions.
Ararat, previously undefeated this season, went on to lose the match by seven points, but will play in this Saturday’s preliminary final.
Unruly crowd behaviour resulted in police being called to escort match
officials and board members. Tense talks between the board and Rats officials ensued on Sunday, when Ararat hosted the WFNL’s first semifinal.
It is understood Williamson has accepted a reprimand for rough conduct relating to the first yellow card and yesterday, the club was awaiting details of the second charge.
The WFNL refuses to comment on any tribunal cases, or make public any information about the hearings.
With the resignation of Mr Ballagh, board member Bart Turgoose has stepped in as acting chairman until the league’s annual general meeting.
Mr Turgoose said finals were a time of strong emotions and passion, reflecting how much clubs and communities cared about the competition.
“However, in these moments, it’s important that we all take a step back and consider how we respond, ensuring our actions reflect the values that unite us,” he said.
Mr Turgoose said Saturday’s events were ‘concerning’ and ‘completely unacceptable in community sport’.
“We are disappointed by some actions of leaders within our league following a board decision that impacted last weekend’s netball finals result,” he said.
“I think that this is a terribly sad way to sort of almost wrap up our finals series by what has occurred in the last couple of weeks.
“I think the thing is that not everyone is ever going to agree with decisions you make ... you’re allowed to disagree with someone’s opinion, but it should never be personal.”
Mr Ballagh served on the board for the past four years, fulfilling various board roles before becoming chairman.
Mr Turgoose said volunteering as a board director required significant personal commitment, much of which happened behind the scenes and often went unnoticed.
He said Mr Ballagh had given considerable time and effort to the WNFL, and oversaw many changes and positives, including the introduction of the league’s women’s and girls’ football competitions.
“He’s been our chair through what I would say this year has been probably one of the toughest years of football and netball,” he said.
Continued page 3
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
Former Horsham restaurant owner Gunaseelan Manoharan is answering to seven charges at a Ballarat County Court trial this week, facing allegations of false imprisonment, sexual assault, and sexual assault of a child under 16 years of age.
Manoharan owned Pynsent Street’s Indian fusion restaurant Rooh from September 2020 until November 2022.
He has pleaded not guilty to seven charges, including one count of false imprisonment, one count of sexual assault of a child aged 16 or 17 under care, supervision or authority; four counts of sexual assault of a child under the age of 16; and one count of sexual assault.
The offences against the three victims are alleged to have occurred between September 2020 and January 2022.
The jury heard from complainants and witnesses, whose statements were summarised by Judge John Kelly.
“To prove the crime of false imprisonment, the prosecution must prove three elements beyond reasonable doubt: the accused deprived another
Horsham Rural City Council has appointed Brian Klowss as acting mayor after Cr Ian Ross stepped down due to health reasons.
In a statement, the council said that due to personal circumstances, Cr Ross would need to take some periods of leave from official duties.
Councillors attended an additional council meeting to consider interim arrangements for the position of acting mayor.
“I am currently experiencing some health issues that require treatment and consequently there will be times I will be unavailable to fulfil my mayoral duties,” Cr Ross said.
“It is important the council can continue unaffected by my absence during this time.
“On that basis, councillors have resolved to appoint Cr Klowss as acting mayor who will step in to fulfil the duties of mayor on my behalf when I am unable to do so.”
The interim arrangement will ensure that key responsibilities, including chairing meetings, attending public events and representing council in official matters, are maintained without interruption.
person of her liberty; the accused intended to deprive that person of her liberty; and the deprivation of liberty was unlawful,” he said. “Mr Manoharan does not need to have physically prevented her from moving, a person can be deprived of their liberty by threats or intimidating conduct.”
Judge Kelly said an alleged victim recalled spilling a customer’s coffee while making it, before Manoharan allegedly took her to the enclosed area adjoining Horsham Town Hall.
“She said Mr Manoharan got angry and told her to follow him to the back courtyard area and to stay there until she was ready to come back,” he said.
“She said after five minutes she composed herself and checked the doors. She said the roller door, stage door and gate were all locked. She said she was out there for about 20 minutes to half an hour.
“She said Mr Manoharan returned and spoke to her and let her back inside.”
Judge Kelly said Manoharan’s wife then took the victim outside and told her there had been a complaint and if it happened again, her employment would be terminated.
“In re-examination, she clarified that she told police about five occasions
where he would use the courtyard as a ‘naughty corner’ for her,” he said.
On another occasion in February 2021, the complainant outlined an incident where employees took a group photo on her phone.
“She said when she set the timer and stepped back, Mr Manoharan put his hand on her behind and slid it to her hip,” Judge Kelly said.
“The defence say she’s made it all up because there was a delay in paying her or she wasn’t paid, or she didn’t get her super.”
Judge Kelly said a second complainant alleged that she and others in the workplace dealt with verbal abuse, touching parts of their body, receiving comments on weight and sexuality.
“She said that the first instance of sexual harassment she could remember was in her first week at the job,” he said.
“She said that every Saturday they would have a casual day for clothes as Guna [Manoharan] wanted it to be a fun workplace, before he began asking her to wear tighter clothes and telling her what she would look good in.”
Judge Kelly said the prosecution alleged that Manoharan devised a pretext of criticising her about animal hair on her uniform to essentially frisk
her. “Touching would be on focused areas including her back, bottom and on occasion or two when he tried to come close to her groin. He touched her breasts as well,” he said.
“The defence says she should not be believed, that she was dirty about being shortchanged and she’s invented this episode, and invented her evidence from start to finish.”
The defence also said the third complainant was ‘a liar’, that she had ‘an axe to grind’, she ‘dreamt it all up’, and she was vengeful because she did not get paid properly.
Judge Kelly gave the jury directions before deliberations began on Monday.
He said that while the matters were all separate, they were all being dealt with in one trial for convenience.
“Each charge must be considered separately in light only of the evidence which applies to it,” he said.
“He has pleaded not guilty and so it is for you and you alone to decide whether he is guilty or not guilty of these crimes.”
Mr Manoharan did not give evidence in the trial.
As of late yesterday, the jury was still deliberating.
ASK THE QUESTION: Horsham College was among groups and organisations to raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing in the lead-up to September 10’s World Suicide Prevention Day and September 11’s R U OK? Day. College students Paige Millar and Torey Holland are pictured with assistant principal Liam Price at Horsham College’s R U OK? Day Wellbeing Expo on Monday, which featured a sausage sizzle lunch and displays of resources available to people experiencing hardship. Horsham Rural City Council Mayor Ian Ross said the events were about reminding people they were never alone. “We all have a part to play – the conversations might be hard, but they could change a life.” Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
From page 1
“We’ve had the underage permits come in that were an extreme shock to us all that we didn’t see some coming, and wasn’t communicated by the AFL to leagues until the 11th hour.
“As a board, his leadership through that was really good, and made sure that kids could still play footy.
“Ultimately that’s what the board of directors wants – we want people to get out and be able to play football and netball. We are there to serve our communities and actually serve our football clubs as stewards of the game and support them in enjoying weekend football, more than anything.”
Mr Turgoose said the WFNL board was committed to providing a safe, positive environment for all participants and would continue working with clubs to uphold the ‘proud traditions of country football and netball in the Wimmera region’.
“We don’t want it to be tainted by bad behaviour or poor behaviour. It’s just not how we want it to be. That’s not what country football is,” he said.
“I think the one thing that’s really important is if you see bad behaviour, call it out ... don’t be an active bystander, don’t stand there and just let it occur.
“There’s Wimmera Football Netball League board members, we have our amazing operations staff who attend the games, and at the past couple of games we’ve had a police presence as well. If there is poor behaviour that you think has crossed a line, report it.”
Last week, Ararat president David Hosking said the club was unhappy with the scoring error, but was also disappointed bylaws were not followed and at a lack of transparency in the review process afterwards.
“It’s a sad day in community sport when a league-appointed official makes an error, the league acknowledged that there’s been an error, but they won’t correct it,” he said.
“They want to stand behind a technicality and put a team out of the finals race.
“Now, if that’s the way you want to run your league, if that’s the way that you think things should be, then I suggest you shouldn’t be in the position you’re in.
“They want to hold us to the rules, that’s fine, but apply the same standards to yourself.
“There would be very, very few people I would imagine that think that this is a correct decision.”
The Weekly Advertiser yesterday contacted Mr Hosking for further comment about Saturday’s incidents but he did not respond before print deadline.
• Editorial, page 11.
• Football and netball reports, page 49.
City’s first Running Festival is a marathon feat
Fun-runners and athletes alike will be putting their best feet forward when the inaugural Horsham Running Festival gets underway on Sunday 14 September.
Top of the bill will be a full marathon – 42.2 kilometres –comprising four laps of a picturesque circuit on the banks of the Wimmera River.
Supporting the marathon are half marathon and quarter marathon runs, a quarter marathon event for walkers and a 5km walk or run option, an out-and-back course from the parkrun start to near Weir Park.
Youngsters can take part in a free 2km Kids’ Dash, a fun untimed event for under-12s.
Race Director Brian Haddy has been co-ordinating a local fun run in his home town of Mount Barker, SA, for the past eight years, raising more than $200,000 for local youth development charities.
He also co-ordinated the Great Kanku Breakaways Marathon Festival in Coober Pedy in 2022, and now coordinates the annual Mad Max Marathon in Broken Hill on the last Sunday in July and the annual Mildura Riverfront Marathon each June long weekend.
All events start in Sawyer Park, from 9am.
Subsidised barn cat desexing program
Thanks to support from the Victorian State Government Animal Welfare Grants Program, Horsham Rural City Council is pleased to offer subsidised cat desexing to farmers with barn cats.
The out-of-pocket cost for the owner after the subsidy will be just $45 per cat and the program will run until spots are depleted. This offer is available to Horsham residents only.
Why should you get your barn cat desexed?
There is a wide range of benefits to desexing barn cats, including:
• Overall health, leading to a longer lifespan
• Population control by preventing unwanted litters, decreasing the burden on rescue groups
• Reducing unwanted behaviours such as marking and spraying.
To book your spot in the program, you can sign up with the QR code.
If you need assistance with booking your spot, call the Horsham Library on 5382 5707 or visit at 28 McLachlan St, Horsham.
Start the conversation: it could save a life
Mental health challenges can touch anyone, at any stage of life — they don’t discriminate.
While conversations about mental health and suicide can feel difficult, they are often the first step towards connection, support, and even saving a life.
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day and local organisations are coming together to raise awareness and support the Horsham community by having open, meaningful conversations about mental health and wellbeing.
As part of this, a Community Walk will be held to mark the day and bring people together in hope and remembrance.
Wednesday 10 September – Community Walk for World Suicide Prevention Day
Meet at 5:15pm | Corner of Roberts Ave & Ward St, finishing at the Soundshell.
Come together for a reflective community walk in honour of World Suicide Prevention Day. The walk is a chance to show support, share hope, and remember those we've lost.
Thursday 11 September – R U OK? Day
This year’s message is: “Ask R U OK? – Any Day”
R U OK? Day is a national reminder that we all have a role to play in supporting each other, every day of the year. A genuine check-in can help someone feel seen, heard, and supported.
and
Managed by the National Centre for Farmer Health on behalf of the Victorian Government, the program offers grants of up to $5,000 for community-led events that promote social connection and mental health awareness.
Visit the QR code for more information.
Know what's happening at HRCC. Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter.
Next Council Meeting: Monday, September 22, 2025 - 5.30pm Horsham Rural City Council: 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham | Postal address: PO
25-020
PROVISION OF TREE CARE SERVICES
Closes Wednesday 17 September
The Road Management Plan is a document that describes the responsibilities for road management, including those of Council, landowners and a range of utilities.
The plan establishes the minimum maintenance standards Council aims to achieve in relation to its road network. This includes aspects like:
• The frequency of inspection of different classes of roads and footpaths
• The size of defects at which an intervention is triggered
You can have your say by submitting an online feedback form, emailing your feedback to council@hrcc.vic.gov.au or posting your feedback to Horsham Rural City Council, PO Box 511, Horsham VIC 3402 before Wednesday 17 September.
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.
You can have your say by visiting Engage Horsham or by attending a drop in session at:
•Civic Centre - Wednesday 10 September 4.30-6.30pm
Engagement closes Tuesday 7 October.
COMMUNITY VISION AND COUNCIL PLAN
Council recently completed a first round of community engagement to inform a review of the 2041 Community Vision and development of a draft Council Plan 2025–2029, and round two starts now. View the updated draft with the QR code below. Feedback closes Friday 26 September.
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 will be provided.
RSVP on Engage Horsham.
For details visit the Engage Horsham section of HRCC's website
| Email: council@hrcc.vic.gov.au | Web: www.hrcc.vic.gov.au
Agriculture
Victoria Research employees at Horsham are set to be affected by a State Government plan to restructure and reduce staffing.
Positions ‘no longer required’ include five scientist positions in the Agriculture Resources Sciences division; a senior technical officer and program manager from Science and Technology; and two research leaders and four research scientists from Plants Sciences.
While there are some newly created positions – the number of job cuts outweigh the new positions, while other positions are set to change.
Not all positions are based at Horsham’s Grains Innovation Park, but with a majority of the state’s plant science-related positions based in Horsham, the site will be affected.
A ‘Change proposal and staff consultation pack’ for Agricultural Victoria Research division, released last month, says proposed changes are ‘set to drive key research activities that will significantly improve sustainable agricultural productivity, facilitate effective climate change adaption, mitigate emissions, and ensure robust biosecurity outcomes’.
“We need to address ongoing funding challenges, operate more efficiently, and prioritise key areas of science and technology. This will require some reduction and realignment, including changing our branch, unit and team leadership and structure, reducing science capability in some areas and achieving science support operational efficiencies,” it reads.
The document specifically men-
tions proposed changes to improve ‘cross-branch coordination at Horsham Smartfarm’; and a new co-ordinator role at the Horsham Smartfarm to work across multiple branches at Horsham.
It also states other changes to include a reduction in leadership roles associated with dissolving the Plant Production Sciences branch into existing branches; and scaling back capabilities in crop agronomy, hydrogeology, plant functional genomics, and spatial data sciences.
The Victorian Farmers Federation, VFF, is concerned proposed staff reductions could leave the state’s agriculture industry vulnerable to the risks posed by pests and biosecurity threats.
VFF president Brett Hosking said the future of key roles involving biosecurity, emergency response and invasive-species management were under threat and the government must not shirk its responsibility to protect the industry.
“These proposed cuts have the potential to put all of that at risk if our biosecurity safety net is not maintained as it should be,” he said.
“Any reduction in staff and services would be a backward step for Victorian agriculture, particularly in areas safeguarding the sector against pests and diseases.
“The government have been taking a risk-based approach to policy and regulations, but are heightening these risks by reducing staff and capacity.”
Mr Hosking added the flagged reduction in staff could leave the industry vulnerable should a largescale biosecurity outbreak occur.
“You only need to remember the huge response that was required to contain and eradicate the recent avian influenza outbreak. It’s all hands-on deck and you only get one chance to get the response right,” he said.
“I fear if the government follows through with this decision our industry and our regional communities could be left high and dry.”
Member for Lowan Emma Kealy said Victoria’s ‘incredible team of agricultural research scientists’ were being targeted.
“This is a total disregard for the 21,300 farm businesses across Victoria – the lifeblood of our regional communities – who generate well over $14-billion in agricultural produce and drive around 27 per cent of Australia’s total food and fibre exports, worth $20.1-billion,” she said.
Ms Kealy said Labor had budgeted $537.2-million for Agriculture Victoria in 2025-26, a decrease from $614.8-million in 2024-25.
“These budget cuts, along with the loss of critical staff, gut the very people who protect Victorian agriculture and the scientists whose blue-sky research is vital to keeping our farmers competitive in a global market,” she said.
“It is a huge blow to an industry already under pressure.
“Victorian agriculture deserves better. Our farmers deserve better.”
The Weekly Advertiser contacted the State Government for comment but they did not respond before yesterday’s print deadline.
GROWING: Horsham Spring Garden Festival committee welcomes new ideas and new faces to its 35th annual event of floral and plant displays, lifestyle exhibits and presentations at Horsham Botanic Gardens next month. Chairperson Graham Gerlach said everyone was welcome to be involved. “It’s a good fundraising opportunity for community groups. We’ve had schools, sporting and service groups involved before,” he said. “Everyone is welcome and we’re hoping to see as many exhibitors and community groups involved again as possible.” The 2025 Horsham Spring Garden Festival will be at Horsham Botanic Gardens on October 11 and 12. People can contact the committee via email horshamsgf@ outlook.com or their Facebook page – Horsham Spring Garden Festival. Mr Gerlach, left, is pictured with exhibitors, Poolwerx’s Grace Dixon, Mitre 10’s Amanda O’Neil, and Wimmera Aquatrail’s Cathie Robertson.
Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
Yarriambiack
Shire Council has endorsed the transfer of Minyip, Rupanyup and Warracknabeal kindergarten services to Emerge Early Years Services, following a community consultation process.
As of last month, council operated three kindergarten services, with Murtoa Kindergarten closing at the end of last year due to the opening of the Early Learning Victoria Bani Walup Childcare and Kindergarten Service.
With Beulah and Hopetoun services already transitioned to Emerge, and plans underway to re-establish long-day care services in Hopetoun, council took the opportunity to review its approach to service delivery.
Yarriambiack Mayor Kylie Zanker said the transition would offer the advantages of streamlined functions and a common provider to better assist families.
“Emerge offers key advantages as a single, local provider familiar
A $1.9-million expansion of East Grampians Health Service’s practical laboratory in Ararat is now complete, with nursing and medicine students from across the country set to benefit from expanded training capacity in the region.
The new laboratory will serve as a teaching tool for university and TAFE students, allowing them to simulate real-life hospital scenarios and develop their skills.
East Grampians Health Service training and development manager Claire Sladdin said the ‘state-ofthe-art’ laboratory was a win for students completing on-site training at the health service.
“It’ll be used for the Doctor of Medicine through Deakin University and Federation TAFE Diploma of Nursing and Certificate III in Individual Support, plus for East Grampians Health Service staff to do simulated training and skills development,” she said.
“It replaces a much smaller lab that we had here. If you come in here, you’re basically working in a hospital.
with the community and regional challenges, and delivers services efficiently across multiple rural local government areas to achieve economies of scale,” she said.
“Centralising functions such as enrolments, payroll, financial, and human resources, including recruitment, enables funds to be directed back into improving the quality of services, pedagogical leadership, professional development and specialised service support in the classroom, which provides a greater benefit to our communities and staff.”
Cr Zanker said Emerge had an advantage over local government – it focused solely on high-quality early years services, while local government divided resources among many competing priorities.
Council chief executive Tammy Smith said council had partnered with Emerge to oversee early years operations since October last year.
“This has resulted in positive outcomes for staff and families,” she said.
“Centralising functions such as enrolments, payroll, financial, and human resources, including recruitment, enables funds to be directed back into improving the quality of services, pedagogical leadership, professional development and specialised service support in the classroom, which provides a greater benefit to our communities and staff”
– Kylie Zanker
“Emerge efficiently managed Yarriambiack Shire Council enrolments for next year, releasing them earlier than previous years.
“Furthermore, Danielle Thompson, manager of early years and transition at Emerge, who works collaboratively across local centres, has established strong relationships with staff, families, and
parent advisory groups. Her efforts have contributed to fostering a positive relationship and experience among council, the community, and Emerge.”
It is envisaged the transition would occur in a staged approach, with Rupanyup and Minyip being first, followed by Warracknabeal.
“The aim will be for all centres to be transitioned by the end of this year,” Mrs Smith said.
Speaking at council’s ordinary meeting, Cr Zanker said the community was given the opportunity to offer feedback about the transition.
“There has been a lengthy consultation process with community,” she said.
“Emerge has always been and is a leader within the early years services.
“I think the transition for those kindergartens, for the staff and the parents will be a really positive one, and I look forward to seeing that partnership with Emerge unfold.”
“We started tours last week and it officially opens on September 19.
“It’s great because we’ve got the facilities to be able to support students to continue to live here, train here and work here.”
The State Government allocated money for the new lab, along with $900,000 for a new CT scanner at the health service, in a $2.8-million
commitment announced in March last year.
Former EGHS board member Ken Weldin thanked the government for the funding commitment at the time of its announcement.
“The practical laboratory expansion will provide excellent training facilities for medical and nursing students undertaking training here
at EGHS,” he said. Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the upgrade would enable more practical training for medical students in the region.
“The upgraded practice laboratory will help our medical students improve their skills – all locally here in Ararat,” she said.
Police detectives from the armed crime squad arrested two people and seized an illicit firearm as part of an investigation into a shooting in St Arnaud earlier this year.
With assistance from western region officers, police executed warrants at two residential properties in St Arnaud on Thursday.
During the search, police located a loaded privately manufactured handgun, as well as firearm parts and cartridge ammunition. A significant amount of cannabis was also seized.
A St Arnaud man, 21, and a 55-year-old St Arnaud man were arrested and interviewed by police.
The 21-year-old man will be charged with non-prohibited person possessing firearms, possessing ammunition and possessing drugs of dependence. He will face St Arnaud Magistrates’ Court on September 25.
The 55-year-old man will be charged on summons for possession of drugs of dependence and hinder-resisting police. He will face St Arnaud Magistrates’ Court at a later date.
Police are investigating whether the firearm is linked to a shooting at a property on Kings Avenue in St Arnaud on July 28, which left a 40-yearold St Arnaud man with a non-life-threatening gunshot injury to his upper body.
A 37-year-old man was charged with reckless conduct endangering serious injury, intentionally cause injury, common law assault, using a firearm contrary to firearms prohibition order, theft of motor vehicle, driving while disqualified, dangerous driving while being pursued by police, committing an indictable offence while on bail and contravening a conduct condition of bail.
It’s alleged the incident was targeted, with both parties known to each other.
Anyone with information about illicit firearm activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Hindmarsh Shire Council’s Wimmera River Discovery Trail official opening will pair with a tourism and business forum at Antwerp Hall on Sunday.
The forum will begin at noon with a light lunch followed by presentations at 12.30pm by Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism and council’s economic development and tourism team, covering marketing and promotions, and how new and existing businesses can be supported.
The trail opening is at 2.30pm, with a ceremony and short walk showcasing part of the walking and cycling link between Dimboola and Jeparit.
First proposed more than 10 years ago, state and federal funding was secured for the 56-kilometre trail.
Council worked closely with Parks Victoria and Barengi Gadjin Land Council to develop six sections along the Wimmera River corridor.
Hindmarsh Mayor Ron Ismay said the trail was a fantastic asset for the area.
“We welcome this fantastic asset for locals and visitors, and we’ll continue to look for opportunities to enhance the trail into the future,” he said. For forum planning and catering purposes, people can register their attendance at form.jotform. com/252358461435055.
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
Acontinuing push to review traffic management and increase pedestrian safety at Horsham West Primary School has been escalated to state level, with Member for Lowan Emma Kealy raising the issue at Parliament.
Ms Kealy met with Kooyong and Kirwood street residents last month before raising the matter, hearing the issues at drop-off and pick-up times, and the possible solutions to alleviate problems.
A public meeting at the school in May with Horsham Rural City Council representatives, residents, school parents and staff, identified risk-reducing strategies that are in place, and discussed further short and long-term approaches that could make the area safer.
Residents identified near-misses with children running onto the road, cars parked across driveways and in no-standing zones, and congestion as their major concerns.
At the May meeting, resident Jack Flynn moved a four-part motion: that council purchase eight blocks on the west boundary of the school; to fast track the development of a traffic management plan and implement it before the next school year; the establishment of a car park and bus hub; and a playground and meeting space.
Ms Kealy said traffic management systems similar to those used at other Horsham schools could be implemented.
“Looking at signage, parking and the way traffic is flowed around other schools, some of these could be applied at Horsham West,” she said.
“I think there are some really easy solutions that could improve the situation.”
Ms Kealy said Horsham Primary School’s 298 campus brought cars onto school property to drop children off, Ss Michael and Johns Primary School had a dedicated drop-off zone, and Wimmera Lutheran College’s Horsham campus allowed children to be dropped off in batches, where drivers do not leave their cars.
Ms Kealy said the issue was two-fold, with the State Government responsible for issues within the school gates, and the council responsible for everything streetside.
“There’s plenty of room for parking and a drop-off zone at the west school, it just needs to be designed, which is what the Victorian School Building Authority can be engaged for,” she said.
“And council has a responsibility to improve the traffic-flow and on-street parking, to make sure it fits the purpose.
“Some time ago, I walked through the school and they had a solution that they were talking with the Education Department about, which took out some of the front area and required the bike shed and possibly a pump shed to be moved.
“Some of the issue is for council,
some of it’s just trying to push through and get the State Government to agree that they can get a traffic management architect to design at least a better solution and we can fight for funding for it.
“It’s super easy and I think it would relieve a lot of the issues relatively quickly.”
Ms Kealy said limiting rightturns onto Hillary Street from Kirwood Street could be trialled, as could clearer line-markings for parking on both sides of Kirwood Street.
“I think that those sorts of ideas would help to make sure all the traffic was heading in a similar direction and flowing better, because it’s terrible at the moment,” she said.
In her address to Parliament, Ms Kealy said: “I would like to briefly raise a matter for the Minister for Education, and the action I seek is for the minister to direct the Victorian School Building Authority to develop a traffic and parking management plan for Horsham West primary school.
“This has been an issue for an extended period of time.
“There have been a number of near-misses on that road, and I urge the minister to step up and provide that school with support to make that area safe.”
Ms Kealy has also written to Education Minister Ben Carroll and is awaiting a response.
Horsham’s Tony Kirchner has been inducted into the National Road Transport Museum’s Wall of Fame, an honour that recognises the contribution road transport, its pioneers and contributors have made to the economic wellbeing of Australia.
Mr Kirchner, a diesel mechanic who ran Kirchner Trucks from 1995, started his career at Adelaide, and moved to Horsham in 1983. He found work wherever he could.
“My wife Jenny had a part-time job and we had a one-year-old son, so I had the kid with me from then, he went everywhere with me,” Mr Kirchner said.
“I did a lot of CFA work out at their sheds, that’s how it started, in an old Falcon panel van, and a one-year-old kid that used to ask a thousand questions, and an old box telephone.”
Mr Kirchner went on to rent small sheds to work from in Horsham, building his business and ultimately owning a workshop on Stawell Road, and training about a dozen apprentices during his career. He retired about two years ago owing to ill health.
Mr Kirchner said the induction was a surprise.
“There were some big rollers getting inducted too – there was bloke who owns William Adams there, and he also owns Elphinstone out of Tasmania, he got inducted as well. And a pair of brothers from Cale’s Transport,” he said.
“A lot of these blokes I’ve known off and on because I’ve been in the business.
“I thought I’d only work wages for my whole life, but I started the business and I achieved what I wanted to do.”
– Bronwyn Hastings
It’snot often that sport makes it on the front page of a newspaper.
And it is usually not for a positive reason that it receives such a prominent placing.
That is exactly the case this week, with the fiasco that has unfolded in the Wimmera Football Netball League.
During what should be the most exciting time of the season – the finals series – the spotlight has shone brightly on the WFNL board, its decisions and the behaviour of officials, players and spectators.
While it ramped up last week after a scoring debacle in the A Grade netball elimination final between Southern Mallee Thunder and Ararat, it has been quietly bubbling away all season.
Ararat was rightly upset with the league’s decision to not reverse the elimination final – with the video showing the Rats were one goal ahead at the final siren.
But a scoring error had the game at a draw, requiring the match to go into extra time, which resulted in a Thunder victory.
The WFNL cited the bylaws as the justification to the decision – saying the captains signed off on the scoresheet – but the bylaw actually states both clubs’ captains and scorers must sign the scorecard. Ararat maintains its scorer did not sign the scorecard.
It was not just the result of the netball scoring investigation that has riled Ararat – it was the lack of transparency, justification and correct process by the WFNL.
‘Read the room’
By Lauren Henry
There is no doubt the WFNL needs to look at and rectify these issues for the future.
While the bylaws need tightening up, a change to the scoring setup for finals is a move the WFNL could immediately make – the games need to be scored by independent persons, not the clubs themselves.
The tense situation between the WFNL and Ararat heightened at Minyip on Saturday, where the Rats played Thunder in a spicy second semi-final.
With Ararat co-coach Tom Williamson given two yellow cards during the match, which forced him from the ground, emotions ran high.
The fact police needed to be involved in ensuring the safety of umpires and board members indicates just how high the emotions were running.
The crowd also played a role in what unfolded at Minyip – and it is not the first time this season that spectators’ behaviour has required the WFNL to issue warnings.
The outcome of the Williamson situation is still to play out – but again, there is an issue with a lack of transparency – as the WFNL will not release information about tribunal hearings.
The league has refused to confirm
I totally agree with Lauren Henry’s editorial in The Weekly Advertiser’s September 3 edition ‘Humanity’s best and worst visible’.
I’d like to unpack this a little if I may.
Firstly, why are these hate groups – Neo-Nazis – allowed to even exist legally when their only threadbare ideology that they cling, desperately, to is hatred of anyone that isn’t them?
Are these knuckle-dragging man-children aware that our country fought two world wars rejecting their massively flawed ideology?
If you don’t want to live here you can leave ... please do ... you’re obviously unhappy here. And perhaps if you cannot exist peacefully within our multicultural society, then perhaps it’s you that should be legally deported and not the other way round, which is always your ideological focus.
These man-children need to grow up and ‘read the room’... and if you don’t want to be part of that room, feel free to emigrate to a country that shares your ‘rock ape’ views.
Scott Neill, Murtoa
Danish company Copenhagen Atomics has just released the pricing on their containerised Small Modular Reactor, SMR, unit.
According to their website, their 100 megawatts, MW, thermal – 42 MW electrical – Thorium fuelled, molten salt reactor units are available for Australian $75-million each.
These reactors are extremely safe and produce much less hazardous waste.
When installed with 42MW of steam generator system and ancillary equipment, the total installed price would be about $120-million or $2.86-million per MW.
This is less than a tenth of the CSIRO Gencost estimate for SMR and this price is likely to drop significantly with mass production.
The company aims to begin producing reactors commercially by 2028 with mass production planned from 2029.
According to the company website, their system could produce electricity for as little as $30 per MWh or three cents per kWh.
It’s worth noting the Astron Corporation’s proposed Donald Rare Earths and Mineral Sands Project is expected to produce commercial quantities of both the uranium and thorium needed to fuel these reactors.
or comment to the media on tribunal hearings all season – and there have been some high-profile cases that it should have highlighted, even if it was just to give a general deterrent to all that this type of behaviour is unacceptable and there are consequences.
Following some tense discussions between the WFNL board and Ararat officials when the Rats hosted Sunday’s elimination final, WFNL chairman Billy Ballagh stepped down from the position, effective immediately.
What has played out over the past fortnight is a sad state of affairs for community sport.
Ironically, considering how important that winning is to all involved, the bigger picture of all of this is that there are no winners.
The WFNL board members are volunteers who give up their time to ensure the league can operate and give thousands of people across our region an opportunity to play the games of football and netball.
And that is a key point in all of this –at the end of the day, it is just a game. Yes, players and clubs work hard all year to reach the finals and win the ultimate prize, but it is not worth risking people’s health and wellbeing over.
Particularly when it comes to volunteers, which are hard enough to get at the best of times.
With two weeks to play in the finals series, let’s hope everyone can respectfully work together to ensure the spotlight returns to the actual games because it promises to be a fantastic showcase of football and netball.
Rather than banning nuclear power, the Victorian and Australian governments should partner with Copenhagen Atomics and produce their reactor systems here, otherwise they’re denying homeowners and businesses access to much cheaper energy.
For large electricity consumers such as data centres and Alcoa’s Portland aluminium smelter, the Copenhagen Atomics SMR offers an opportunity to install large scale behind the meter generation, which would significantly reduce their operating costs.
If our governments don’t allow this option, then it’s likely those industries will vote with their feet and move either interstate or overseas.
Indonesia already has an agreement with Copenhagen Atomics to install their reactors and I’m sure they’d be happy to have those businesses relocate there. Unfortunately, the Victorian government appears determined to follow South Australia, which has Australia’s most expensive electricity, and pursue wind and solar with gas firming regardless of its impact on regional communities.
Daryl Scherger, Ararat
Our plan is clear
Nine in 10 farmers say they feel ignored and disrespected by the Allan Labor government. That frustration was on full display when farmers and other regional Victorians rolled into Ballarat with their tractors, trucks and united voices – calling on Labor to listen. It’s little wonder farmers and regional Victorians feel betrayed.
Labor has silenced regional voices by fast-tracking renewable projects without proper consultation, stripped away the right to appeal government decisions and now threaten hardworking farmers with massive fines for protecting their own private land.
This is another kick in the guts, just as Labor’s emergency services tax is landing in mailboxes. Labor’s 63rd new or increased tax comes at a time when household budgets are at breaking point.
Regional Victorians deserve better. The Nationals will stand up for you. Our plan is clear: Lower cost of living by scrapping five Labor taxes – including the emergency services tax; restore regional voices on renewable energy projects; protect homes with a two kilometre buffer from wind turbines. Defend land rights by repealing Labor’s land access laws.
Danny O’Brien, MP, Leader of The Nationals
Four people have been charged with drug and firearm offences following an ongoing investigation in Horsham.
Police executed a search warrant at a property on Tena Avenue at about 6.15am on Monday.
Officers searched the property and allegedly found drugs, an imitation firearm, and stolen items.
Three men and a Horsham woman, 28, were arrested at the scene.
A Horsham man, 35, has been
charged with trafficking methylamphetamine, prohibited person possessing a firearm, possessing ammunition, and possessing proceeds of crime.
He has been remanded in custody to face court in October.
A Horsham man, 38, and a Horsham man, 26, were charged in relation to unrelated matters.
A 28-year-old woman received a caution for possession of a drug of dependence.
KFC Horsham’s is closed this month while renovations take place.
The Western Highway fast-food outlet will re-open its drive-through and delivery services later this month before the restaurant reopens in its entirety in mid-October.
“KFC Horsham is currently closed for a remodel and will reopen later this month with drive thru and delivery services available while the full renovation is completed,” a KFC spokesperson said.
“The restaurant will resume offering dine in and takeaway in midOctober when locals can also enjoy a refreshed restaurant experience.”
A World Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness Walk event will begin at Horsham’s Ward Street at 5.15pm today, Wednesday, and continue to Sawyer Park.
Taking place on World Suicide Prevention Day, people are invited to carry photos of those they have lost to suicide, and members of the community can join in to raise mental health awareness and offer support. At the soundshell, participants will hear from guest speakers, there will be a free sausage sizzle, memorial presentation and mental health services and support information available.
A B-double truck lost control and turned onto its side, blocking both lanes on the Western Highway at about 7am yesterday morning. Traffic was diverted around the incident, which occurred near Dahlen
between Horsham and Pimpinio. The driver self-extricated and was treated at the scene by paramedics. Police, VICSES and CFA crews also attended the incident.
Approaching
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BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
Rural Northwest Health has lifted Hopetoun campus’s urgent care diversion after more than two years, following a successful recruiting campaign, two new duplexes and the implementation of a sustainable model.
In March 2023, RNH announced it would temporarily pause its urgent care service owing to clinical staff shortages, working with Ambulance Victoria and the Department of Health to offer alternatives such as assisted Victorian Virtual Emergency Department sessions.
RNH announced the diversion would be lifted as of September 1.
Chief executive Ms Jenni Masters said the pause was a result of a culmination of challenges.
“We were stuck in a terrible time to try to get clinical staff – coming out of COVID-19, and trying to get people with a defined mix of skills to live in a rural area,” she said.
“There were lots of challenges that culminated. It’s been a huge issue, to find staff and train them with the skills that are necessary, so we know
that 24-hours a day, seven days a week, we have the skills needed at Hopetoun, no matter what comes through the door.”
Ms Masters said a successful recruitment campaign brought much-needed staff to the hospital.
“We were able to drive a really strong recruitment campaign, that was the main thing, it’s been an amazing piece of work done by our HR team and by our clinical team,” she said.
“We’ve had to interview heaps and heaps of people, to be able to find the right staff to work and live with us in Hopetoun.”
RNH also received funding to build accommodation to house staff and their families at the town, which will open at the end of this month.
“We’re building two duplexes – four three-bedroom houses on our property right next to Hopetoun Community Centre, which is going to help us house staff,” Ms Masters said.
“We were very lucky to get funding from the Regional Workers’ Housing Fund under the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions.”
With clinical staff shortages still affecting the western world, Ms Masters recognised
the efforts of recruiters and the patience of the community.
“It’s been a lot of hard work, but it’s really great to be able to do this, especially when getting clinical staff across the western world still remains a challenge,” she said.
“I certainly would really like to thank the community for their understanding and patience – we know it’s been tough.
“And certainly, from my point-of-view, and I know the board feels the same as well, a great big thank you to our team, who has worked diligently to make sure that we have everything in place for us to do this.”
Ms Masters said wide and thorough collaboration contributed towards the lifting of the diversion, and ensured a more secure future.
“It’s been a really collaborative piece of work with our community, our GP, and our team to get this access across the line so we’re able to lift the diversion,” she said.
“We have put in a model that’s sustainable. We didn’t want to put this in place and then suddenly have to change our mind again. We needed to make sure that what we had was sustainable.”
KNITTING TOGETHER: Horsham’s Knit and Natter group meets at the RSL every second Friday. Pictured is group leader Mary Birch, left, with fellow knitters, back left, Kayleen Ward,
Di
Barbara
A ‘knit and natter’ group has donated thousands of knitted items to Horsham-based charities since its inception 11 years ago.
Group organiser Mary Birch said about a dozen people met each fortnight at Horsham RSL to complete projects.
“We meet for a few hours from 11.30am, we knit, have lunch and a natter, and everyone is gone by about 2.30pm,” she said.
This year the group has donated more than 160 rugs, 120 beanies and about 20 children’s clothing items to Horsham’s Christian Emergency Food Bank, Uniting Church, and Grampians Community Health.
The group accepts donations of eight-ply acrylic yarn for their projects, which can be left at Horsham RSL.
“Even if you don’t do any knitting, you’re quite welcome to come and just sit and chat, and people don’t have to come each time, it’s very casual.”
Petula Clark tribute show Colour My World will stage at Nhill next month, as part of Hindmarsh Shire Council’s Victorian Seniors’ Festival. Musical theatre favourite and star of internationally renowned group The Fabulous Singlettes
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
Wimmera Prostate Cancer Support
Group members are encouraging people to get behind them during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in September.
Wimmera group leader Brian Nagorcka, who founded the group after his own prostate cancer diagnosis 11 years ago, said the disease was among the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Australia.
Prostate cancer represents about 16 per cent of all cancers diagnosed in Australia and one in three of all cancers diagnosed among men, according to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, PCFA.
“We’d love to see everyone get behind us, and get active in the fight against prostate cancer during September,” he said.
“Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in our local region, although many men and families lack the support they need to cope with the diagnosis.
“Our hope is to raise greater awareness of early detection and to connect with men in our community who may need support.
“Our group provides men and their partners with information about prostate cancer, and the type of comfort that can only come from others who have been through the disease.”
Mr Nagorcka said Wimmera group meetings were on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Horsham RSL, beginning with a lunch at noon before a guest speaker and meeting commenced at 1pm.
He said people did not require a prostate cancer diagnosis to become group members.
“We’d love to see everyone get behind us, and get active in the fight against prostate cancer during September”
– Brian Nagorcka
“We get around 26 or 27 members at each meeting. That includes women who are partners of some of the men,” he said.
“It’s all about supporting one another. Some groups do money-raising things, and while we will take donations, our aim is mainly to support people.
“You hear some stories and you realise there’s always someone worse-off than what you are.”
PCFA chief executive Anne Savage said peer support was vital to survivorship.
“Members know the difference that faceto-face support can make when a diagnosis of prostate cancer strikes,” she said.
“We strongly urge local men and families to connect with the Wimmera group and get involved in Prostate Cancer Awareness Month by helping us raise awareness of early detection.”
People can contact Mr Nagorcka for more information on the Wimmera group by calling 0448 710 628 or 5382 1452, or emailing briannagorcka@bigpond.com.
Mr Nagorkca said people could also contact Grampians Health Horsham’s new prostate cancer specialist nurse Sheena Kirby by calling 0437 440 819 or emailing pcsn horsham@gh.org.au.
For more information on prostate cancer, people can visit www.prostate.org.au or call PCFA on 1800 22 00 99.
Elective surgeries at Grampians Health’s Stawell campus are on the rise after a staff increase enabled both its theatres to operate simultaneously.
Stawell’s second theatre opened earlier this year, with a surgeon labelling the facility ‘world class’.
Since the theatre’s opening, Grampians Health has increased perioperative staff numbers at Stawell to ensure the concurrent running of both theatres.
Stawell theatre nurse unit manager Sally Hamilton said the increase was a step forward for local surgical services.
“The added capacity supports
Adrian Wade finished school at the age of 17 in 1989, set to study chemical and analytical science at university.
of the business, from deliveries and packing shelves, then by the end I was probably more responsible for the people,”
Adrian said starting off in solar hot water made for a good business decision. “We were lucky enough to be in the right
improved scheduling, reduced wait times and better access to care for our community,” she said.
“Staff across the surgical and perioperative teams have worked collaboratively to ensure a smooth transition into dual-theatre operations and it has been fantastic to see the energy and teamwork driving this progress.”
Stawell campus site director
Sue Campigli thanked everyone who played a part in bringing both theatres online.
“It’s another proud achievement for our campus,” she said.
Ms Campigli said the increase
in surgical activity at Stawell was part of a strategy by Grampians Health to improve elective surgery outcomes across the region.
Grampians Health has also rolled out robotic surgery at Ballarat Base Hospital, which has already supported more than 440 elective procedures and is being trialled for emergency cases.
The appointment of more senior specialised surgical staff had also helped improve the number of hip and knee replacement surgeries in Grampians Health Horsham campus during the past few months.
Come celebrate this Milestone with us throughout October!
Atenderprocess for a planned covered sports arena at Ararat Pony Club is expected to commence imminently.
Ararat Rural City councillors discussed the project, which is supported by a $1.49-million grant from the Federal Government’s Play Our Way program, at last month’s meeting.
Mayor Jo Armstrong said the grant enabled the council to progress pre-construction planning and consultation, with council officers having now completed necessary groundwork for the project, including a feature survey and geotechnical investigation to ensure the upgrade’s long-term stability.
Cr Armstrong said Ararat Pony Club members were presented with two preliminary layout plans and had confirmed their preferred site layout.
Council workers are now finalising specifications for the project tender, which is expected to open imminently. Once the council appoints a contractor, detailed design work will follow before construction begins.
Cr Armstrong said the new facility represented an opportunity
to support a strong and active future for equestrian sport in the region.
“This has been a carefully considered project, and it’s exciting to see it moving into the next stage,” she said.
“The Ararat Pony Club has a proud history and a thriving membership. This new covered arena will make sure riders of all ages have access to modern facilities that encourage participation, learning, and enjoyment throughout the year.
“Council has worked closely with the pony club to ensure the project reflects their needs, and we are grateful for the support from the Federal Government, which has made it possible for us to deliver this significant local investment.”
Ararat Pony Club president Helen Spencer said members were thrilled with the progress.
“We are delighted to see this project moving ahead, thanks to the partnership between the pony club and council,” she said.
“Having a covered arena will mean our riders are able to continue developing their skills and enjoying equestrian activities, no matter the weather.”
BRIGHT FUTURE: Zoe Bandel completed work experience at Swinburne University Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing in Melbourne. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS
A career in astrophysics is in sight for Horsham student Zoe Bandel after she completed her year-10 work experience at Swinburne University Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing in Melbourne.
Zoe worked alongside researchers and experts for a week, who are under the supervision of Sara Webb, the course director for Swinburne Astronomy Online, microgravity program lead, and program mission director for SHINE and the
Swinburne Space Innovation Challenge.
Zoe said she was immersed in the workspace, working with other students, ranging from year-10 to international to PhD students.
“We looked at the actual supercomputer, we listened to people presenting papers, and we talked to people in the workspace,” she said.
“We also worked on a research project and gave a presentation, which we got good feedback for – they said it was very in-depth.
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“I presented with a partner, she did dark energy, and I did dark matter.
“Dark energy is the force that is moving our universe in expansion and dark matter is something that we can’t see but is interacting with light and bending light, but we don’t know what it is, but we know it is there.”
Zoe said her interest in science was extended by the discovery of Australian scientist Dr Karl’s podcast, and at Astro Fest, where she met Ms Webb and heard about
the opportunity for work experience.
Zoe participates in schoolbased science programs – she is looking forward to this year’s national robotics competition, where she and competition partner Jack Kelly finished fourth two years ago, and has selected her year-11 subjects accordingly.
“Next year I’m planning on studying chemistry, physics, maths methods, computing and media,” Zoe said.
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AcaciaCaravan Park’s Matt and Kaylene Linsley have won a Caravan and Residential Parks Victoria partnership award for their ongoing contribution to the Ararat community.
Announced at the CRPVic awards night, which recognises the significant contribution a member caravan park has made to their local community going beyond business operations to strengthen the people, groups and initiatives that make their region thrive.
CRPVic chief executive Scott Parker said Mr and Mrs Linsley had shown extraordinary commitment to their community through partnerships, involvement, and ongoing financial support.
“Over the years they have
proudly invested in initiatives that promote wellbeing and strengthen community spirit, from sport and music to local charities, ensuring that their park plays an integral role in building a more connected and vibrant region,” he said.
“This dedication shows a belief in the philosophy that strong communities are built on shared support, participation and giving back.”
Mrs Linsley said the award was ‘a nice surprise’.
“There are a lot of parks that are doing a lot of great things – even when we were doing the application process, I knew from previous years what other parks had done to win this award,” she said.
“I just didn’t think that what we had done was maybe what they were looking for.”
The park sponsors sports teams, the town’s annual dance eisteddfod and Golden Gateway Festival, and was the highest non-pub or club fundraiser for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal last year.
The Linsleys have just secured the freehold of the business, more than eight years after buying the leasehold.
Mrs Linsley said the consistently booked park boasts 20 cabins, about 42 powered sites, and fully-enclosed pet sites. It is supported by eight staff members.
“This award means a lot to us, and it’s good for our staff as well,” she said.
“Not that we need to be patted on the back, but it’s nice to know that what we’re doing does benefit the whole of Ararat, the whole community.”
Althoughit is unusual to plan a community event for the peak of winter, late Grampians resident Keith Fischer had a mission.
Mr Fisher wanted to create an event that would raise money for mental health services while bringing joy on the darkest day of the year.
It was for that reason that on June 22, the Northwest Grampians Lions Club welcomed more than 160 people to The Bushwackers in concert at Horsham Town Hall.
“It was a Sunday afternoon, on the shortest day of the year; that was Keith’s idea,” club vice-president Mal Griffiths said.
“Keith wanted something upbeat, that would bring the community together and raise money for mental health.”
The event raised $1500 for Grampians Health Edenhope’s Rural Outreach program, which offers free nonclinical mental health support across the Wimmera.
Mr Fisher died in the weeks before the event, which became a tribute to him and his work.
“It was hard not having him there, because he would’ve loved seeing it. It was an emotional day, but exactly what he wanted,” Mr Griffiths said.
Grampians Health Rural Outreach
FOR A GOOD CAUSE:
worker Mal Coutts spoke at the event, highlighting the power of community.
“Sometimes we need a reminder, to make sure we talk and look after each other,” he said.
“I was there to start the conversation, about mental health and suicide, because often people aren’t comfortable bringing it up.
“A huge part of my role is just creat-
ing a space for people to speak and process things; and that’s something we can all offer each other.”
Mr Coutts urged people to contact Rural Outreach for a non-judgmental, free conversation.
“You don’t have to be in crisis to pick up the phone and request a chat,” he said.
“This is a free service that aims to
prevent some of the more serious mental health issues and offer that support before things escalate.
“The beauty of our job is that we can drive out and meet people wherever they need, whether it’s at the kitchen table or in the sheep yards.”
Grampians Health Edenhope campus manager Tricia McInnes thanked the Northwest Grampians Lions Club for its ongoing support.
“This isn’t the first time the club has supported our Rural Outreach program and it reflects a community-wide desire to support mental health in the region,” she said.
“Rural Outreach is a unique, awardwinning program that was designed to meet the unique needs of our Wimmera communities.
“We are extremely grateful to everyone involved in the event, not just for the financial contribution, but for the assistance in promoting this vital service.”
The concert was supported by a list of sponsors and businesses, which donated raffle prizes, accommodation and meals for the band, and grant money.
Rural Outreach is a free service offering mental health support in a location that suits its clients.
To find out more, people can phone 1300 688 732.
Councils’ fire hazard identification programs will begin in coming weeks to highlight potential fire hazards at residential properties.
Property owners are advised to slash dead or long dry grass, and to remove fuels such as dead branch-
es or piles of cut vegetation, to reduce fire risk. People with properties identified to be a potential fire hazard will be issued a fire prevention notice.
Failing to comply with a notice within the specified time might result in the property owner being
issued an infringement notice for $2040, in addition to associated costs.
For information on how to prepare for the fire season, people can visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/planprepare/how-to-prepare-your-property.
Mental health awareness film As the Dust Settles screened at Horsham last month, the brainchild of former resident and men’s mental health charity
The Outback Mind Foundation founder Aaron Schultz.
Detailing the stories of regional people losing their male friends and family members to suicide and the subsequent impact, Mr Schultz said the film also looked at what communities could do to lessen future risk.
“I lost a mate in 1994 and I was the last person to see him,” he said.
“If I had the ability to be able to pull him back and be able to ask the right questions at the time, I have no doubt he would still be here.”
Horsham Mayor Ian Ross attended the screening.
“I think the message is there’s hope and there’s always bumps in the road, but with hope and working and getting help, you can come through it and it’s a good life afterwards,” he said.
“There’s hope by working together as a community and working to help stop it, because we’ve lost too many people, especially blokes, to suicide.”
Cr Brian Klowss described the film as educational.
“It was very hard-hitting at times, but I think it’s a must watch for a lot of young guys,” he said.
Mr Schultz, who lives in Ballarat, said he decided to return to Horsham to show his film because he owed a lot to its community.
• Anyone experiencing mentalhealth issues can call Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, Lifeline, 131 114, Kids Helpline, 1800 551 800 or 13 YARN for Indigenous people.
Intowns across northwest Victoria, a quiet, compelling transformation is unfolding.
It’s a story rooted in human psychology.
How the dual desires to preserve a place’s identity and the urge and need to embrace new ideas can fuel community evolution.
In the Wimmera Mallee, where agriculture still anchors and drives control over the wider community and business success, a strategic shift is underway.
The need to encourage diversification and bold approaches to new business concepts is driven not just by new entrants into the sectors, but also a very basic need to ensure the population moving forward.
With previous and existing demographics skewed towards an ageing population, the need to redirect these statistics towards a youth and young family cohort is key to long term growth, and the very survival of many of the smaller townships.
The wider implications of an ageing population is significant if not alarming.
So why is it, we fight change so vehemently? Why is the status quo deemed to be our saviour by so many? Despite challenges, like balancing community sentiment or the introduction of new faces to the local business scene, the real psychological catalyst has been the region’s willingness to engage its own communities.
People are more sensitive to potential losses than they are to potential gains, so the perceived risk in change can sometimes outweigh the opportunities that lie within a shift in direc-
with Stacey Taig West Vic Business Ambassador
tion. A re-evaluation of personal or community identity can sit uncomfortably, and the fear of the unknown can be overwhelming for many.
In addition, a collective identity being challenged by ‘outsiders’ is rarely met with initial open arms, however, this is in fact where one of our biggest opportunities for success lie, in fresh eyes. So how do we move beyond that.
Dimboola is often touted as an example of what can be achieved when individuals find strength in solidarity and a ‘collective ambition’ as highlighted in previous articles.
But it hasn’t been all smooth sailing, and it certainly did not come without the initial naysayers.
It was achieved in spite of those that said it wouldn’t work. By forging ahead with crazy ideas.
By not waiting, not taking the normal planning and processes into consideration, and to put it simply, just going for it.
Because of these risks, not to mention a strong dash of persistence and resilience, incredible results have been achieved.
I often draw inspiration and base precinct development discussions around an early encounter I had with an employed place maker for the City of Geelong.
The story of the Geelong Waterfront was something I hadn’t at that stage heard before, and was one which, as
much as it was a city-ocean precinct that seemingly had little in common with our local examples, held similarity.
It was a place that previously, people drove through to get to somewhere else.
They ‘intentionally’ set about creating a destination, a space people wanted to visit and stay, and its ongoing evolution has been astounding both from a community and economic aspect.
The changes weren’t based on existing or predicted statistics. The need for development in the space was based upon opportunity and the belief of success and understanding of social needs based outcomes.
Even now, a new vision is emerging with the understanding for ongoing change an identified necessity to ensuring the continued appeal of the area, retention of locals and visitors alike.
Both mayoral and community voices underscore the significance, with a current masterplan underway stating that ‘this is not just urban planning, it’s crafting a legacy of place, social cohesion, and opportunity’.
Change is rarely an accident. It’s based in psychology, values, ownership and collaboration.
If we nurture our historical roots, invest in new possibilities, and let those visionaries lead with the enthusiasm that drags everyone else – not kicking and screaming but following with excitement and anticipation – we will see a future where flourishing is not just a hopeful outcome, but something that is intentional.
Year 9 and 10 Scholarships that inspires confident futures
Apply today and unlock opportunities for service, leadership, and global learning.
From Vietnam’s villages to Central Australia’s red heart - there’s never been a better time to start your College journey.
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Combined Probus Club’s foundation members, from left, Wilma
Liz
Uytdehaag, Jill Coutts, Julet Schultz and Shirley
celebrated the club’s anniversary with its members last month, marking 17 years since the men’s and women’s Probus clubs joined. Club president Ian Baker said people were welcome to join, “We meet at Horsham RSL on the fourth Tuesday of each month – visitors can attend three meetings to see if it’s for them, everyone is welcome,” he said.
Buses will replace trains on part the Ballarat, Ararat and Maryborough lines over the next week, as level crossing removal works progress in Truganina and Melton.
Passengers should allow extra time for their journey, with replacement buses operating between Bacchus Marsh and Caroline Springs stations from September 6 to 14.
Buses connecting with trains at Bacchus Marsh or Caroline Springs will depart earlier than usual train times.
Temporary timetables are available for download on the Transport Victoria and V/Line websites.
Over the next week, crews will install concrete bridge beams and continue construction of the new road bridges at Hopkins Road and Ferris Road, and the rail bridge at Exford Road.
The level crossings at Coburns Road, Exford Road and Ferris Road in Melton, and at Hopkins Road in Truganina are being removed.
Ararat Rural City Coun-
cil is reminding residents about the importance of responsible dog ownership following a recent increase in wandering dogs and dog attacks in the community.
Ararat Mayor Jo Armstrong said dogs were much-loved companions and members of many local households and encouraged all pet owners to take active steps to ensure their dogs remained safe, secure and a positive part of the community.
She said a concern was the number of dogs found roaming off-lead or unaccompanied, posing a risk both to the public and to the dog itself, with incidents ranging from aggression
and vehicle hazards to avoidable injuries.
“Dog ownership is about more than loving your pet,” she said.
“It is about understanding the impact that pet behaviour has on our neighbours, on public spaces, and on community safety.
“A well-trained, well-secured dog is not only a happier pet, but also a better friend to the people and pets it meets.”
Council chief executive Tim Harrison recommended dog owners: register dogs with the council – a legal requirement and the simplest way to help reunite lost pets with their owners, with registration fees also supporting dog facilities across the municipality; training dogs to be comfortable in
a range of settings and behave appropriately around people and other animals; check their fences, ensuring gates are kept locked and there are no gaps in fences through which dogs can escape; use leads when walking their dogs; and pick up after their dogs.
“Our dogs rely on us to make decisions in their best interests, and in the interests of our community,” Dr Harrison said.
“If everyone keeps that in mind, we will see fewer incidents and a stronger sense of respect between dog owners and the wider community.”
People with questions, or who need advice on registering their pet or improving dog behaviour, can contact the council’s customer service team on 5355 0200.
People in West Wimmera Shire Council are invited to share their views on council’s review of its four-year domestic animal management plan. It provides a framework for the planning, development, and evaluation of animal management services in the shire, and how it will manage cats and dogs.
Community members are invited to complete an online survey, open until September 14, to provide input into the draft plan. Feedback will help council identify key pri-
orities and actions to ensure animal management services are effective, fair, and responsive to community needs. Responses will be considered in the preparation of a draft domestic animal management plan, which will be released for further public comment before a final plan is adopted.
The survey is available at www.westwimmera. vic.gov.au/Have-Your-Say/Domestic-AnimalManagement-Plan.
Visitors to the Stella Young statue in Stawell’s Cato Park will enjoy an improved experience following the completion of accessibility upgrades.
The bronze statue, created through the Remembering Stella Young project and unveiled in 2023, honours the late disability rights activist, journalist and comedian, who was born and raised in Stawell.
Northern Grampians Shire Council, which delivered the Remembering Stella Young project, last year received additional funding to complete accessibility upgrades.
The council used a $100,000 grant from the State Government’s Council Support Package to extend footpaths from two accessible car parks to both the bronze statue and accessible toilets, as well as completing sign and landscaping upgrades.
Mayor Karen Hyslop said the council was grateful the State Government understood the importance of the statue to the community and the need to create access.
“Stella passionately campaigned for more accessible spaces, so we wanted to do everything in our power to ensure equal access to her statue for all,” she said.
Cr Hyslop said the upgrades would improve visitor experience, with signs directing visitors from an accessible car park.
“The project also includes raised garden beds along the path in a contrasting colour to the path, to provide improved access for visually impaired people,” she said.
“Regular users of the park are often ob-
Accessibility upgrades leading to a statue of disability rights activist Stella Young are now complete at Stawell’s Cato Park.
served sitting and chatting on the garden
edges and they provide people who do laps of the lake with a good place to rest.”
Cr Hyslop said the gradient of the path connecting the accessible parking to the toilets had been levelled out and widened to ensure compliance with relevant standards.
She said the council funded additional improvements including a new section of grass near the playground beside the new path, which had struggled to grow due to shade.
“We have also completed new asphalting of the accessible car park, which includes the transition area to the new footpaths, plus additional garden beds,” she said.
Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes said the upgrades meant people of all ages and abilities could now visit the Stella Young statue to honour the work of the late entertainer and activist.
“Accessibility and universal design are so important because they offer everyone the chance to enjoy spaces like Cato Park,” she said.
“This project presented an opportunity to not only increase the accessibility of Cato Park, but also contribute to honouring the memory of the remarkable Stella Young – it was really a win-win situation.”
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FILING IN: Organisers were ‘absolutely thrilled’ to raise more than $2100 and attract a large crowd to Sunday’s Wimmera Against Cancer in Kids, WACK, Father’s Day car and bike show, despite inclement weather. About 75 vehicles were displayed, including a Kenworth truck, Lamborghini, motorbikes, the last V8 Falcon made in Australia, and race cars from Blue Ribbon Raceway club. Pictured admiring entries are, clockwise from above: Luke McCarthy with a Father’s Day present from his sons Isaac, Eli and Levi; Max Green with his 1946 Ford Deluxe; Clarrie Mackley checks out some of the cars; entries line up for the showcase at Horsham Plaza; Tom Elliott with a VW; and Rhylee Olston with his Mum’s car.
Wimmera
Base Hospital’s ladies’ auxiliary celebrated a milestone anniversary with event ‘100 Years: A Centenary of Support’ last week.
Auxiliary member Denise Queale described the event as ‘absolutely wonderful’.
“We sold about 120 tickets – we had a fashion parade, cake with candles, Grampians Health chief executive Dale Fraser and Member for Lowan Emma Kealy both spoke, and our raffle made more than $700,” she said.
“It was lovely that people dressed up, they went looking in cupboards and under beds and goodness knows, and found things to wear.”
Mrs Queale said Murtoa Community Hall lent its old-fashioned champagne glasses for guests’ complementary drinks, the Marchesini sisters catered and supplied china cups, saucers and plates, and Robyn Lardner sourced white linen tablecloths and napkins for the tables.
“But, we had disasters,” Mrs Queale said.
“Robyn Anders, who was to compere the fashion parade, fell on the Sunday and injured her knee very
badly. I thought of Allison Roberts to replace her – she’d never compered a fashion parade before, but let’s face it, Allison can do anything. And she did. She did a great job.”
Mrs Queale said no one in the original group would have thought that after 100 years the auxiliary would still be going.
“Nor would they imagine what the hospital would look like today,”
she said. “When they formed, it was only a small type of a hospital and before they started raising money, they used to sew pyjamas and things like that, to make people comfortable in the hospital.”
Mrs Queale said the event’s planning took 12 months.
“It was worth the effort to recognise the milestone and the service given,” she said.
Is the shoulder joint really a joint?
Not really, it’s a shallow cavity with the A/C joint on top. The shoulder has a wonderful range of movement. If you think of a cup and saucer, the hip is a bit like a cup (a ball and socket joint) and the shoulder is more like the saucer, shallow with a small lip on one side. The average person can move their shoulder in a number of ranges of motion: up, down, in, out, large circles and up behind your back, or in your case, maybe not.
The shoulder is supported by 16 muscles and they’re a bit like a union, one out all out. Also, it has close association with the neck and upper back. So, when there is a problem with the shoulder as chiropractors, we often see locked up muscles in the shoulder region, the shoulder joint not moving as freely as it should and tight, locked up upper back and neck, shoulder blade and clavicle.
So how does a Chiropractor help? With adjustment to move the jammed-up areas in the neck, upper back, and shoulder, corrective posture and sometimes massage, you can see a huge improvement. This is also relevant care if you have had shoulder surgery or a fracture in your arm which means you haven’t been able to move it properly. Getting all these areas to move better means that any physio or other treatment, will work better with better results.
If you’ve ever clicked on a Facebook or Instagram ad about paying off your home loan in under 10 years, chances are you’ve been bombarded with more of them since.
I’m all for reducing debt as quickly as possible. But let’s be real: not all strategies are created equal, and not all of them are safe.
A mortgage is ‘a 30-year cashflow commitment’.
There’s a growing wave of content demonising the 30-year mortgage, and with good reason.
It’s a long time to stay in debt. Here in Australia, we’ve now crept into 35 and even 40-year loan terms.
Why? Because banks use it as a way to reduce monthly repayments, meaning you can borrow more.
It’s a clever little trick that on paper looks helpful, but in reality? It’s a move that benefits the bank more than it benefits you.
It’s about keeping people in debt for
with Robert Goudie
longer. And to me, that’s exceedingly unethical.
Reducing your home loan term is a brilliant goal. But the way you go about it makes all the difference.
You’ve got two main levers to pull – Increase repayments, which is the lever you control; and lower your interest rate – which will help, but isn’t always within your control.
Let’s say you’ve got a $600,000 home loan at 5.95 per cent. The monthly repayments come in at $3600.
Stick to that and you’re looking at a 30-year loan with $684,000 paid in interest alone.
But if you can boost your repayments to $6425 a month? You’ll shave
20 years off your loan and be mortgage-free in just 10 years and six months and reduce your interest cost to $209,500, a saving of $474,500, assuming rates stay steady.
Not everyone can do that. It’s a massive cash flow commitment. So how are these online ads showing people who’ve done it?
The catch
When you watch those glowing testimonials, you’ll notice something: most of them aren’t just paying down their home loans. They’re also purchasing multiple investment properties.
So yes, they’re aggressively tackling their non-tax-deductible debt – their home loan – but behind the scenes, they’re taking on large amounts of investment debt to do it.
Let’s be crystal clear: this is not a risk-free strategy.
It often depends on access to positively geared investment properties; a belief that Australian property will double every 10 years; and continued
high employment and rental demand.
And here’s the problem, positively geared properties in Australia are like hen’s teeth. Most properties are still negatively geared, meaning the rent doesn’t cover the cost of the mortgage and expenses.
So, what’s happening in many of these cases? People are shifting and increasing risk, not removing it.
Over the past 30 years, we’ve seen property in many parts of Australia double roughly every decade. But from these price levels, can we really expect the same?
That’s where the risk kicks in. If you’re taking on large investment debt in the hope that property values will keep rising fast enough to make the numbers work, well, that’s not guaranteed.
And in an environment of higher cost of living, and potentially stagnating prices, it’s a dangerous bet.
The safe way
Here’s the boring truth – and it’s usually the boring stuff that works –
Australian Red Cross Lifeblood has announced its donor mobile unit’s visits to Ararat will become a permanent fixture.
The return of donor mobile unit services to Ararat was initiated through East Grampians Health Service, EGHS, community consultative committee.
The committee, consisting of EGHS board directors, executive staff, volunteers and consumers and chaired by board director Lisa Davidson, advocated for the return of services, with EGHS chief executive Nick Bush then writing to the Australian Red
Cross requesting the return of the blood bank to Ararat.
A trial donor mobile unit visited Ararat in September 2024 and booked out quickly, demonstrating the interest in the region.
The mobile unit has returned to Ararat on three occasions this year – collecting 148 samples in April and 135 in July.
Mr Bush praised the Ararat community for its support of Lifeblood.
“Thanks to all Ararat residents who have given blood at the Lifeblood Donor Mobile Unit that has visited Ararat,” he said.
“Your blood donations are lifesaving and very much appreciated. We look forward to seeing the Lifeblood Donor Mobile Units returning to Ararat each year for many years to come.”
Lifeblood’s donor mobile unit will return for appointments October 15-18. Bookings are essential. People can book a donation online now at: www.lifeblood.com. au/donor-centre/vic/ararat-mobile-donorcentre, via the Donate Blood app, or by phoning 13 14 95. The bus will be at Ararat RSL and Ararat Library Car Park.
lock in a competitive interest rate; pay more than the minimum – as much as you can afford without sacrificing your lifestyle; don’t stretch yourself so thin that life becomes all about the mortgage; and use resources like the Money Smart website.
Money Smart’s mortgage calculator is fantastic. Plug in your numbers and see what it takes to pay off your loan in seven to 10 years.
And here’s a mindset shift worth adopting: you decide when your loan is paid off, not the bank.
Paying down debt is powerful. It gives you freedom, options, and peace of mind.
But doing it by taking on more debt, especially in today over valued property market, is a risky road.
Do your research. Ask tough questions. And always check who’s behind the advice, what are they really selling you?
Paying off your home loan in seven to 10 years is possible. But do it the right way, not the risky way.
GWM has announced details of its forthcoming Tank 500 Hi4-T, a plug-in hybrid variant said to offer Australian buyers superior performance and efficiency when it arrives in showrooms later this year.
The variant features GWM’s Hi4-T plug-in hybrid technology the Chinese manufacturer says is engineered to high output, long electric range, true mechanical 4WD capability, and heavy-duty towing support.
Power is drawn from the combination of a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and electric motor that deliver a total system output of 300kW and 750Nm.
Drive is via a nine-speed automatic transmission with torque-on-demand, four-wheel drive.
GWM quotes a combined cycle fuel use figure
of 2.1 litres per 100km and a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 6.9 seconds. Battery power is stored in a 37.1kWh ternary lithium battery enabling an all-electric driving range of 120km NEDC.
Combined with petrol power, the GWM Tank 500 Hi4-T is said to have a total driving range of up to 950km.
Electrical recharging is via a CCS2 connector allowing fast charging rate of up to 50kW DC.
GWM says the battery may be charged from 3080 per cent in as little as 24 minutes when using DC fast charging, or in 6.5 hours when charging at home.
With 2H, AWD, 4H Lock, and 4L Lock offroad modes, a choice of 11 driving modes, and three locking differentials – front, centre, and
rear, the Tank 500 Hi4-T is said to offer genuine off-road credentials and a braked towing capacity of up to 3000kg.
Ground clearance is listed at 213mm and water wading 800mm, while approach, break-over, and departure angles are noted at 30.0, 22.5, and 24.0 degrees respectively.
The five-seat-only GWM Tank 500 Hi4-T – necessary to accommodate the high-voltage battery – is equipped with second-row heated, ventilation, and massage functionality in the outboard seats, and a dedicated rear-seat interface via a 7.0-inch touchscreen.
Further forward, we find a 14.6-inch infotainment array hosting wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connectivity, tri-zone climate control, auto parking and reversing as-
sistance control, and many more. Paint options include onyx silver, crystal black, and dune gold premium colours (+$595) and standard marble white. Upholstery options are in Nappa leather with black or combination blue and cream available.
As is the case elsewhere in the GWM range, the Tank 500 Hi4-T is backed by the Chinese importer’s seven-year/unlimited-kilometre new car warranty with eight years/unlimited kilometre coverage on the high voltage battery pack. Roadside assistance and capped-price servicing is included for five years via GWM’s network of 117 dealerships nationwide.
The GWM Tank 500 Hi4-T will be available in showrooms from quarter four this year. Pricing will be announced in the coming weeks.
Australian new vehicle sales hit an impressive 100,539 units last month, marking the second strongest August result ever recorded. Add to those, figures collated by the Electric Vehicle Council, and that number rises to an impressive 103,694 units. Furthermore, and for the first time, four Chinese brands – BYD, Chery, GWM, and MG – are in the national top 10, with a total of 20,070 Chinese-made vehicles sold across the month of August – or 67 per cent more than for the same time last year.
“The presence of four Chinese brands in the top ten illustrates the continuing evolution of the automotive landscape in Australia,” Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries chief executive Tony Weber said.
Predictably, SUVs continue to dominate the Australian new car market with 60,495 units sold in August, or 60 per cent of the overall field. That number is 3954 units greater than the same time last year, or a rise of 7.0 per cent. Light commercial
vehicle sales are likewise up, the segment growing by 704 units or 3.1 per cent against August of 2024.
Passenger cars made up just 13.1 per cent of sales in August and are down 25 per cent year-to-date when compared with the same period last year. Month on month figures show passenger car sales down 12.9 per cent against August 2024, a decrease of 1963 units.
Heavy vehicle sales are also down, falling 484 units against the same time last year for a reduction of 11.8 per cent.
FCAI figures show Toyota retained its leadership of the Australian new vehicle market in August with unit sales of 20,791 – down 3.3 per cent year-on-year – leading Ford by a margin of 12,789 units and 12.7 market share points.
Ford sold 8002 vehicles, down 10 per cent, to take second place ahead of thirdplace Kia with 7402 unit sales, up 7.2 per cent.
Australia’s top vehicle models for August 2025 were the Ford Ranger in first
POPULAR: The Ford Ranger came in as the top-selling vehicle in Australia in August with 4942 sales.
position, with 4942 unit sales, down nine per cent YOY; the Toyota HiLux in second place, with 4823 unit sales, up 7.3 per cent YOY; and the Toyota RAV4 in third position, with 4115 unit sales, down 38.7 per cent YOY.
According to the FCAI, electric vehicles represented 6.8 per cent of the new vehicles sales recorded in August, while plug-in hybrid vehicles accounted for 3.9 per cent.
Electric Vehicle Council data shows Polestar sold 228 vehicles across August, up 250.7 per cent YOY; and Tesla 2927 units, up 22.3 per cent YOY.
Across the regions in August, sales in the Australian Capital Territory were up 20.7 per cent to 1615 units, New South Wales up 2.4 per cent to 30,536 units, Queensland up 2.8 per cent to 21,907 units, Victoria up 3.8 per cent to 27,036 units, and
Western Australia up 1.6 per cent to 10,647 units.
All other states and territories were down, with new vehicle sales in the Northern Territory falling 7.8 per cent to 840 units, South Australia decreasing six per cent to 6404 units, and Tasmania sliding 3.1 per cent to 1554 units.
– Matt Brogan
Totota has updated its HiAce commercial van range with a host of active safety equipment, a new digital instrumentation screen, and electric power steering, adding what the Japanese importer says are enhancements to active safety and convenience technologies across the range.
The changes increase pricing of the HiAce range by almost $4000 – with the line-up commencing from $51,880 plus on-road costs.
Slated for imminent arrival into local showrooms, the updated HiAce range now features lane trace assist, designed to help the model remain in the centre of its lane when the adaptive cruise control is activated, and an emergency driver support system, which works with lane trace assist to detect if the driver has become unresponsive when cruise control is activated.
According to Toyota, if a driver remains unresponsive following audio and visual alerts, the system is designed to activate the hazard lights and bring the vehicle to a safe and steady stop.
Further, safe exit assist is added to the blind spot monitoring system to improve safety when exiting the vehicle, issuing alerts when passing vehicles or cyclists are detected.
Additionally, cruise control func-
tionality has been expanded with high-speed adaptive capability now offered on models equipped with a manual transmission, while full-speed functionality is available on all automatic models.
Toyota says the new active safety features join the existing suite which includes automatic high beam, lane departure alert, pre-collision safety system, and speed sign assist.
Passive safety has likewise been improved with the addition of a centre airbag on van models taking the airbag count to eight, while LWB Crew variants, with two rows of seats, gain an additional two side airbags, taking the total to 10.
Away from the HiAce’s safety upgrades we find electric power steering introduced for the first time, making manoeuvring the vehicle “easier and more comfortable than ever before”, according to Toyota.
All HiAce grades now also feature a 7.0-inch digital instrument screen with nine driver-selectable displays, an electric park brake, all grades except the entry-grade manual, and a new air-conditioning refrigerant for improved cooling performance.
“The HiAce is trusted by customers across the country to haul a wide variety of products to help their businesses, be it goods, tools, items for delivery, produce and so much more,” Toyota Australia vice president of
sales, marketing, and franchise operations Sean Hanley said.
“These latest upgrades ensure improved levels of safety for both occupants and other road users, which is of particular importance given how much time drivers spend on the road in their HiAce.”
All HiAce grades remain powered by Toyota’s turbocharged 2.8-litre four-cylinder diesel engine developing 130kW/450Nm. The model features a choice of six speed manual or automatic transmissions with rearwheel drive.
Manual models see a 30Nm reduc-
tion in overall torque output. The 2025 Toyota HiAce range remains available in long- and super long wheelbase configurations with panel or glass sliding doors, and a choice of lift-up or barn-door style rear doors.
– Matt Brogan
Servicing your white goods the Betta way
TEXT HERE
Josh Eldridge from Horsham Betta offer a one-stop shop for all your household appliance repairs.
Horsham Betta services a wide range of appliances, such as airconditioners, refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, microwaves, dishwashers and more.
Call Horsham Betta today on: 5381 2207.
You can even drop into the store at 156 Firebrace Street, Horsham, during business hours, 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
on this day
From The Weekly Advertiser archives: September 15, 2005 –Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Christine Nixon paid her first visit to Ararat Hospital in her role as patron of the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation. Ms Nixon, joined by Children’s Court president Judge Jennifer Coate, visited John McNally emergency care service to inspect work funded by the Ararat branch of the foundation, including the site for an emergency helicopter landing pad. East Grampians Health Service board president Bill Jones is also pictured.
10 years ago: September 16, 2015
Rural Northwest Health was shortlisted for two Victorian Healthcare Association awards for its efforts to improve the lives of cancer and dementia patients. Association president Tom Symondson said the appointment of a cancer resource nurse and the ABLE model of care for dementia patients had achieved significant results.
Five years ago: September 9, 2020 Horsham’s Holy Trinity Lutheran College was more than halfway through building its secondary college, with constructed started on the second and final stage. The build was part of a seven-year plan, which started in 2013, that added to an existing 40-year-old primary school. Completion was expected in May 2021, of the additional classrooms, indoor gymnasium, sport science area and science lab. There were about 200 students attending the school at the time.
One year ago: September 11, 2024
Nhill and its wider community rallied for Ava Stephens, 4, who faced her second battle with cancer after six months’ remission. She faced six to eight months’ radiation therapy and chemotherapy treatment at Melbourne for Wilms tumour, during which time her family relocated to the city. People in her hometown gave the family emotional support, and raised money to assist the family’s daily costs. *In March this year, Ava rang the remission bell for a second time.
1. On this day in 2019, which novelist published ‘The Testaments’, her follow-up to ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’?
2. According to afl.com.au, which father-son duo was named the best ever club players for Geelong and Gold Coast respectively?
3. Who said: ‘To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all’?
4. In American illustrated children’s novel series Diary of a Wimpy Kid, created by Jeff Kinney, what is Manny’s nickname for Greg?
5. Which planet has orbited the sun just once, in 2011, since its discovery in 1846 –Saturn, Neptune, Jupiter or Uranus?
6. On this day in 2005, glamour model Katie Price married which 90s pop sensation singer, ultimately divorcing three years later?
7. True or false – under the Laws of Cricket, there are restrictions to the width and length, but not the weight, of cricket bats?
8. According to Pythagoras Theorem, for all rightangled triangles, the square of the hypotenuse is equal to what?
9. Which American actress, born in 1929 and dying in 1982, was mother to Princess Stephanie, Princess Caroline and Albert II, all of Monaco?
10. Julia Gillard was the chair of which charity after retiring from politics?
Brought to you by AFTERNOONS WITH HUGHIE Weekdays, noon until 3pm on
yoUr LUCKy stars with sarah KULKens
Australia’s Trusted Psychic Family
FOR THE WEEK SEPTEMBER 14 TO SEPTEMBER 20
ARIES (March 21 - April 20)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 9, 6, 5, 4
Lotto Numbers: 13, 16, 25, 24, 40, 1
Your life is changing for the better, bringing new responsibilities that you’re more than capable of handling. Overcoming obstacles will be more accessible, and new ventures are set to get profit and success.
TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)
Lucky Colour: Red
Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 9, 7, 5, 1
Lotto Numbers: 2, 5, 12, 21, 14, 41
Expect a busy period with the unexpected around every corner. A VIP could enter your life and provide valuable support. To maintain harmony, avoid taking sides in friends’ disagreements.
GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)
Lucky Colour: Peach
Lucky Day: Thursday
Racing Numbers: 8, 5, 2, 4
Lotto Numbers: 13, 14, 25, 22, 18, 45
Support will come from people you need to impress. The workplace will feel more harmonious, and luck may come from unexpected sources. Stay alert to seize opportunities.
CANCER (June 22 - July 22)
Lucky Colour: Navy Blue
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 9, 7, 5, 4
Lotto Numbers: 13, 16, 14, 41, 40, 11
A fresh start in a career venture is on the horizon, likely bringing success. Financial gains could appear unexpectedly, with family support playing a pivotal role.
LEO (July 23 - August 22)
Lucky Colour: Lilac
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Racing Numbers: 8, 6, 5, 6
Lotto Numbers: 3, 5, 12, 21, 10, 45
Your energy levels are high, which may tempt you to take on too much at once. This is a great time to socialise and focus on health and fitness goals.
VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)
Lucky Colour: Brown
Lucky Day: Monday
Racing Numbers: 8, 7, 8, 6
Lotto Numbers: 6, 4, 15, 18, 25, 22
A more positive outlook will brighten your week. Health improvements and travel opportunities are likely. A change of scenery could bring excitement to your love life.
LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)
Answers: 1. Margaret Atwood 2. Gary Ablett Sr and Gary Ablett Jr. Joel Selwood and Graham ‘Polly’ Farmer were contenders for the
Geelong title, while Tom Lynch and Touk Miller were listed among Gold Coast’s greats. 3. Irish author, poet, and playwright Oscar Wilde. He wrote in different literary styles throughout the 1880s, he became one of the most popular and influential dramatists in London in the early 1890s. 4. Bubby. 5. Neptune. 6. Peter Andre. He was responsible for ‘Gimme Little Sign’, ‘Funky Junky’ and ‘Mysterious Girl’. 7. True. Bats can be no longer than 965 -millime tres and no wider than 108 millimetres. 8. The sum of the squares on the other two sides. The hypotenuse is the longest side of the triangle and is always opposite the right angle. 9. Grace Patricia Kelly, also known as Princess of Monaco and wife of Prince -Rain ier III. 10. Beyondblue. Getting in touch with The
Our office is at 2 Stawell Road, Horsham. Mail: PO Box 606, Horsham 3402. Telephone: 5382 1351. Website: www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au Email: weeklyadvertiser@team.aceradio.com.au For classified advertisements: 5382 1351 – email: horsham@aceradio.com.au
Advertising: Mark Sulic: 0407 313 456, marks@team.aceradio.com.au; Lee Meadows: 0407 046 864, leem@team.aceradio.com.au; Kelly Schilling: 0437 894 257, kschilling@aceradio.com.au; Danica Cutter: 0488 473 562, dcutter@aceradio.com.au; Heidi Higginson: 0438 759 220, heidih@aceradio.com.au; Lily Olver: 0411 784 001, lolver@aceradio.com.au Newsroom 5382 1351: Lauren Henry: lhenry@aceradio.com.au; Bronwyn Hastings: bhastings@aceradio.com.au; Colin MacGillivray: cmacgillivray@aceradio.com.au; Georgia Bailey: georgiab@team.aceradio.com.au
C/-
Lucky Colour: Mauve
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 1, 6, 5, 2
Lotto Numbers: 13, 16, 25, 24, 40, 44
Mysteries will be resolved, and loose ends will be tied up, bringing happiness. Many Librans may embark on life-changing journeys like marriage or welcoming a new family member. Avoid trying to control every situation.
SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)
Lucky Colour: Yellow
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 6, 3, 5, 1
Lotto Numbers: 13, 15, 24, 40, 11, 2
Excitement fills this period with invitations to social gatherings and opportunities to mingle with influential people. Be sure to balance your social activities with some personal downtime.
SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)
Lucky Colour: Mauve
Lucky Day: Monday
Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 8, 4
Lotto Numbers: 13, 15, 24, 28, 45, 40
It’s a great time to ask for favours or return borrowed items. This period is also ideal for rekindling old relationships or forming new ones.
CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)
Lucky Colour: Green
Lucky Day: Thursday
Racing Numbers: 8, 6, 4, 7
Lotto Numbers: 15, 14, 17, 11, 10, 2
Career changes and financial boosts are likely. Excitement in your love life could bring renewed passion and joy.
AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)
Lucky Colour: Brown
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 8, 7, 1, 2
Lotto Numbers: 2, 12, 15, 24, 42, 32
Unexpected misunderstandings could lead to surprising outcomes. A social period of pleasant surprises awaits, and a holiday may provide reasons to celebrate.
PISCES (February 20 - March 20)
Lucky Colour: Purple
Lucky Day: Saturday
Racing Numbers: 8, 9, 4, 2
Lotto Numbers: 13, 15, 24, 42, 40, 11
Improved finances accompany this busy social period. Family matters may bring good news, and gains will come with minimal effort. Misunderstandings are set to clear up.
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
© bmpuzzles Distributed by Knight Features
Whillier
Albert Graham ‘Bert’
Passed away on September 7, 2025 aged 93 years.
Dearly loved husband of Rosemarie (dec).
Loving father and fatherin-law of Sharee & Mark; Angela & Geoff; Grant & Kelly.
Adored Pa to Mitchell & Demi, Jaxon (dec); Dylan & Jess, Amy & Josh; Albert, and Ysabel.
Great Pa to Maycie, Ayla and Rocky.
Reunited with his loved ones
ARNOLD (nee Butterworth), Marie of Warracknabeal on September 4, 2025
Beloved wife of John.
Mother to Sean & Skye.
Grandmother to Colton, Jack, Zoe & Max.
Great Grandmother to Arley Eve.
BLAKE, Dulcie
We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of our beloved matriarch.
A devoted and loving wife to her surviving husband Trevor, loving mother to Jackie and Jamie, cherished ‘Nanny’ to Amanda, Brodie, Tarlee, Emily, Tanika and Hollie, and proud greatgrandmother to her ten great-grandchildren.
In loving memory
CROSS, Mabel ‘May’ Jane
Passed away on September 1st, 2025 aged 96 years.
Cherished wife of Allan (dec)
Loved mother and mother in law of Dianne and Murrie, Julie and Peter.
Adored Nan to Tanya, Renee, Alana, Ben and their families.
Great Nan to India, Taylah, Veeda, Poppy, Bodhi and Tommy.
Reunited with her loved ones in God’s care.
Mabel will be farewelled privately.
Horsham & District Funerals
Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149
FRECKLETON, Donald Noel Revell (Don)
27-8-2025
Loved brother-in-law of Evon and Ivan (dec). Fond memories are ours to keep.
Now in perfect peace
(nee Brennan), Lorna Rees
Passed away peacefully on September 3, 2025, aged 97 years.
Dearly loved wife of John (dec).
Loving mother and mother in law of Francis & Vicki; Garry (dec) & Wendy; Jeff & Bev; Robyn & Barry Hinch.
Adored Nanna and Great Nanna.
“Go Cats”
KRAUSE (nee Liersch), Lorraine
15.11.1936 - 9.9.2025
Loved wife of Roy (dec).
Loving mother and motherin-law to Stephen & Raeleen, Dale (dec), Sharron & Bobby and families.
PEKIN (nee Brennan), Lorna Rees
November 4, 1927 to September 3, 2025 Aged 97
Dearly loved mother of Francis and Vicki. Cherished and adored Nana and Great Nana of Christie & Chad, Mackayla & Aidan, Rachel & James,Charlott & Henry.
Mum, you have left this world for a better place, but you will never leave our hearts. Precious memories.
“Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear.”
In loving memory of Lorna, mother, mother-in-law and Nan. Garry (dec), Wendy and Jack
Your joyful spirit lives within us Forever in our hearts.
She potters no more in the garden, She strolls no more down the path.
But the years we had together, Will live forever in our hearts.
Your loving son Jeff, Bev; Anthony, Hayley, Angus and Matilda, Brendan and Nerissa.
The world changes from year to year, Our lives from day to day, But the love and memory of you shall never fade away.
Loud, loving and Unforgettable.
Loved Mum of Robyn & Barry.
Much loved Nanna of Ebony & Dougal, Nick & Ruby.
Adored Great Nanna of Jagger & Willow. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
(nee Petering), Fay Edna
07.08.1946 – 04.09.2025
Passed away peacefully, aged 79 years.
A special person, very much loved and adored by her family.
Devoted wife of Harold (dec).
Loving mother and motherin-law of Leanne & Mark.
Grandma to Alicia & Simon, Chloe, Benjamin & Melissa.
Great Grandma to Noah, Emmy, Millicent, Darcy, Oakley, Cooper, Harriet and Liam.
Reunited with Harold You are Forever In our Hearts
ARNOLD (nee Butterworth)
The funeral of Mrs Marie Arnold will be held at the Anglican Church Warracknabeal on Friday, September 12, 2025 commencing at 1.30pm Followed by a private cremation.
W.B. Gardiner & Son Funeral Directors Warracknabeal 0407 340 064
BALLANTINE, Donald Edwin “Don”
The Funeral of Don Ballantine will commence with burial at the Rupanyup Lawn Cemetery on Friday, 12 September 2025 at 1.30pm and will be followed by a Memorial Service at the Rupanyup Community Centre at 2pm.
Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444
HAUSTORFER, Albert Graham ‘Bert’
A memorial service to celebrate the life of Bert Haustorfer will take place at the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Horsham on Thursday, September 11, 2025 commencing at 10.30am.
Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member
PEKIN, Lorna Rees
A Memorial Service to Celebrate the Life of Lorna Rees Pekin will take place at the Horsham Church of Christ on Monday, 15 September 2025 commencing at 11am.
Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444
RUWOLDT, Fay Edna
The Funeral of Fay Edna Ruwoldt will take place at The Graveside, Horsham Lawn Cemetery on Thursday, 11 September 2025 commencing at 1.30pm.
Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member
Thank you
~ BIRD ~ Noel Robbie
Margaret, Graeme, Jenny, Max, Wendy, Rose, Graeme and their families wish to thank everyone for their love, support, flowers and messages after the death of our husband, father and pa.
A special thanks to friends and nurses who helped make Noel’s life easier whilst living at home. Thank you to Suzanne Bysouth at Wimmera Funerals and Susan Hobbs for the service.
Memorial Notices
CASTLES, Cheryl
30 July 195015 September 2024. 1 year ago you departed from this world to another. You may be gone from our sight, but never from our hearts. Always loved, always remembered.
Love always David, Fiona and David, Bronwyn, Benjamin, Amy and Lily
Port Fairy 4-bedroom off-peak escape, ocean views, just $1140! Call Langley’s now to book 0355682899
3 year old black and tan
great yard dog, Ph or PM for details to Harry 0458318200
Aged pensioner looking to buy a male chihuahua, 1 1/2 - 2 years old Ph 0421237043
Beeamma White, Australian White Stud purebred rams , private sale on farm, BRUC, ACC, OJD, VAC, ewes available, Elders Alan Thompson 0427849779, Rod Donnell (08) 87582095
Bristlenose catfish, great tank cleaners $5ea until sold out Ph 0474159010 after 6.30pm
Budgies, assorted colours $10 each Ph 0417533579
Cocker Spaniel pups for sale, purebred pups black, female available from September, microchip# 978142000982266, Source# R185238 Ph 0429912620
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Purebred black faced Dorper , rams and ewes, rams 2yrs old, ewes 9months old, pic# 3HSDC083 Ph Liz 0419664345
Purebred German Shepherd , 7 months, black and tan, great temperament, toilet trained, straight, one boy & one girl source# MB115424, m/chip# 95600001 6586733/6681104 Ph 0421018631
Welsh Pembroke male and female Corgi puppies red and white, born 11/6/2025, vet checked vacc and microchip, available on the 8/8/2025 for there new home, microchip# 953010007914643, 953010007914649, 953010007914762, 923010007914686, the pups are reg with MDBA and come with Pedigree paper on limited reg, source# RB110579 Ph or text for pic and info 0448024815
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
Mixed breed of goats, pregnant females, young male goats, mixed sheep available for sale, call for prices Ph 0414851313
Princess Parrots for sale, breeding pairs, various colours Ph 0439655239
Stawell area
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
Restored Antique cast iron/ timber garden benches $250 each Ph 53522691
1998 Cameron Canvas Camper , fully enclosed annexe, off road tires, double innerspring mattress, always stored undercover $5000ono Ph 0439553575
2000 Jayco starcraft, full annex, TV lots of extras, very good condition, one owner, very little use $20,000 or nearest offer Ph 0456601681
2013 Jayco Starcraft , 21', one owner, very little use, as new, many added extras suit retired couple planning to travel $39,000 Ph 0427909230
2017 Ezytrail Stirling, excellent condition, forward folding hard floor, full annex, 600w inverter, TV, 80lt WACO fridge, memory foam mattress topper, always stored undercover, $18,500 ono Ph 0439022870
2019 Ezy Trail Stirling GT Mark 2 camper, EC, full annex, used 4 times, full rego $14,999 ono Ph 0428820446
Colorado Summit 210E 21' Queen bed, large ensuite, full oven, 3way fridge, washing machine, A/C, diesel heater, sirocco fan, solar panels., lithium battery, AC-DC charger, rollout awning Great condition many extras $48000 ONO Ph 0400189163
Jayco Finch Pop Top , double beds with fly mesh, electric brakes, boat rack, annex $12,000 Ph 53582560
EC $14,500 Ph 0407147996
Queen bed camper trailer, make an offer Ph 0407179433
REDUCED 2018 Dingo
Ultimate Camper, heavy duty top of the line off-road trailer including boat rack, fully enclosed annexe including ensuite, lots of storage, built-in instant gas hot water to sink and shower, dual AGM batteries and built-in inverter and charger, innerspring mattress and ability to make up second double bed, two new off-road tyres, VGC, Y76535 $16,500ono Ph 0407360212
REDUCED Caravan
2015 Jayco starcraft , 16ft, queen sized bed, tv, full sized fridge freezer, microwave, gas electric hotplates and oven, toilet and
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
Roof top tent , 2024 Outback Tourer, hardshell with ladder, 230 watt solar panel & roof rack, 12V power inside, 2 x cig socket & 2 x USB ports, 360 LED internal light strip, 1.5 width x 2.1 length, EC $2500 Ph 0418350445
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
Expression of interest , for sale, Lowan round bale carrier Ph 0407911884 evenings
Ferguson Grey Tea 20, engine rebuild, trans resealed, new steering wheel and dash, brake recline, good tyres, good HYD system, new paint, POA, inspection invited Ph 0429491426
Header Gleaner R62 , retired, no further use, $15,000+gst Ph 0438701392
harrows 8' $400 Ph 0429309491
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
5 step platform ladder, galvanised, on wheels with brakes $450 Ph 53522691
Archery equipment , 3 compound bows, 35 pound youth bow, 60 pound adult bow, 16 wheeler antique, 1 45 pound Samic longbow, arrows, tool boxes, apres and fletching jig $500 Ph 0429164375
Brick pavers, H shaped, beige colour, 1600 $800 Ph 0459027575 Stawell
Camping equipment , 2 dome tents, 10 man and 4 man, sleeping chair tent, 3 roll up tables, shower tent, 2 gas stoves, 4 spare bottles, camp kitchen, blow up q/bed $450 Ph 0429164375
Camping Equipment, including as new Yamaha 2KVa inverter generator never used, aqua cube shower, porta potty, Komodo pantry, and clothesline $2500 Ph 0458683879
Folding bike with training stand $350, Snow sled 1050x500 $45 Ph 0418992631
Fridge $75 , Washing Machine $80, Camper Trailer $1500, all excellent condition Ph 0478254195
Galvanised trailer , 5x5 $800 Ph 53522691
Gold and opal ring , approx 80yrs old, current valuation $4500 would like $2500 Ph 0458014560
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
Rinnai Convector portable gas heater, VGC, $50 Ph 0427911765, 0477138363 Nhill
Round bale hay ring $350 Ph 0429200566
Sherwell PTO bin $1200 Ph 0428857312
Stereo $200, Outdoor setting $150, a round table and chairs REDUCED $290, a beautiful organ paid $8000 selling for $3500, fridge $200, Chiffonier paid $950 selling for $350, outdoor vacuum $50, ironing board $60 Ph 53824788
Stihl FS 38 whipper snipper, just serviced, VGC, $65 Ph 0427911765, 0477138363 Nhill
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
Stacer Aluminium fishing boat , 25 horsepower
Yamaha outboard motor, trailer & boat registered, VGC $6000 Ph 0498549832
Wall unit sliding door & shelves $30, coffee table with tiled top $25, timber corner unit $15, outdoor setting with 4 chairs & laminex oval table $80 Ph 0409967815 Horsham
Lost, Prescription Sunglasses in Horsham Woolworths or Aldi car park on 24/8, if found please Ph 0429861917
15' fibreglass clinker inboard boat , no motor, make an offer Ph 0407179433
3.7 m boat and cover, QL624, an aussie made trailer P83061, Yamaha 15 HP motor, near new $4000 Ph 53582560
3.7 savage aluminium boat , UM198, 25 HP Mercury forward steer reyco trailer, b15834 electric motor and lawrence fish finder $2600 Ph 0428523919
Extreme Motorboat, low hours, well maintained, $45,000 Ph 0428788212
Pietscraft 3.5m Fishing Boat , 15hp, Johnson tilt trailer, boat cover, all accessories $5000 Ph 0428822730
Aspire wheelchair , as new condition, barely used once a day for 3 months, extremely comfortable, cost $3500 from Action AIDS, reduced price $950 Ph 0427562913 Horsham
Freedom forearm walker $250, wheelchair $150 Ph 0437600095
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
Gun mobility scooter, EC, shade canopy, front basket, rear carrier, inspections welcome $4000 Ph 0438354414
2020 Harley Low Rider 107 , FXLR 1745 cc, heaps of extras, EC, rego 3 monthly basis, 27,270 kms, 2K4ZJ $20,000 Ph 0409590596
BMW K1200 RS , 2010 model, comes with panniers, top box, reg til Aug, RW, BY136 $4800ono Ph 0419508310 Stawell area
REDUCED BMW R1200RT
Solo, 2007, Ex SA Police, GO, HGR, EWS, CC, RW cond, unregistered, service manuals $3000 Ph 0428154961
Toyota tray , excellent condition with push on tarp $1200 Ph 0484355030
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
Mitsubishi Lancer , 2000, excellent condition, genuine kms, registered, RWC on sale, TXU090, 92,813 kms $3750 Ph 0418319587
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
2011 Triton Extra Cab 4x4 diesel manual ute, towbar, trailer brakes, extra battery, trade racks, business sold no longer needed, current RWC, 40,000km on fully rebuilt engine, WWT002 $16,000 Ph 0419505783
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, 1OC9FA $22,500 Ph 0438521591
2014 Isuzu D-Max , 5 speed, auto, 3.0lt turbo diesel, 4x2, Tommy Gate loader 460kgs, RWC, reg til 19/1/26, 285,658kms, 1DQ6HB $23,990 Ph 0466375088
2014 Toyota Hilux, 3 litre diesel, new shockers and springs and injectors, oil filter and oil every 600km, great for towing vans, 290,000kms $25,500 Ph 0417109816
2019 Ford Ranger XLS grey double cab with full screen, very good condition 125,000km, 8 mths rego, new tyres, snorkel, arb bull bar, air bags, side steps, black duck seat covers, under tray tool boxes, many extras always shedded, minimal towing
$45,000 inc Gst Ph Andrew 0427923236
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 Prado 150 series 31/8/90 alloy nudge bar, PZQ2960420, serial# 0110 $155 Ph 53569340 or 0412482521
Landsborough
Landcruiser ute with slide on camper, 2002, 4.2 litre diesel, 4x4, Millhaven tray towbar, bullbar, Superwinch, tool lockers, Polyair bellows, Davsher hitchhiker camper, new 90L, 3-way dometic fridge/ freezer, fiamma awning, 2 burner gas cooktop/griller, sink,120kW fold up solar panels, 200W inverter, 200AH AGM house batteries, queen bed, robe, spacious storage, midge-mesh screening, Highjacker hydraulic legs, 2nd spare wheel, plus extras, excellent condition, 228,961km, HZJ79R Ph 0427482976
• A registration number, if
• Either an
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
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 service , very clean, full body massages available for both men and women, very discreet, you come to us or we can come to you, call for quote and booking, in the Wimmera area and beyond Ph 0473311660
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
Aged pensioner looking to buy a male chihuahua, 1 1/2 - 2 years old Ph 0421237043
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
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
Wanted, Billy Goat service for 2 milking goats Ph 53840253
2 tanker loads of water as running low Nhill area cash paid ph 53928295 and leave message
Horsham,
We’re seeking a Sales Support Officer to provide vital administrative and customer service support across all areas of our branch. This full-time role is perfect for someone organised, tech-savvy, and passionate about helping clients and teams succeed.
Applications Close 29/09/2025
For more information call Mat Taylor on 0437 018 787
To apply please scan the QR code below: At Elders we encourage applications from a diverse range of people, backgrounds and experiences.
can help
Place your situation vacant advertisement in
– the largest circulating newspaper in the Wimmera, southern Mallee and Grampians. (03) 5382 1351 horshamreception@ team.aceradio.com.au
“Give us this day our daily bread…”
Last week I wrote about God providing and meeting us in the everyday moments. That led me to reflect on “THE LORD’S PRAYER,” where we say, “Give us this day our daily bread.” Jesus taught his friends to ask God for our needs to be filled; in this case, daily bread, which was very important, when most people in the first century A.D. lived from hand to mouth, not always knowing where their next meal was coming from. Jesus taught them (and us) to ask for only enough for each day – not to accumulate wealth or possessions, or too much food so that we waste it and throw it out, or to be greedy.
In this way, Jesus teaches us at least 2 things – to ask only for enough for our daily needs, and to make sure that there is enough for others. If we hoard things ourselves, there is less for others to access. We see this in our world today where there is enough food for all yet so many are starving, while so many in western cultures struggle with the consequences of overeating or too much of the wrong food. Or where our land fill piles up with ‘things’.
We have so many opportunities to be kind, to share generously and to help others live. A long time ago there was a popular saying, “Live simply, so that others may simply live.” I wonder if we can do that, too?
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sharon@bchaccountants.com.au
Due to the continuing growth of BCH Accountants, we have a great opportunity for a highly motivated, dedicated, and ambitious person to join our professional team of accountants.
Benefits:
• Enjoyable and supportive work environment • Career development and ongoing training • Flexible working arrangements • Productivity bonuses
Applications can be emailed to:
Mrs
Key attributes:
• A passion for accounting
• Completing or close to completion of a Bachelor of Commerce Degree or similar
• Excellent communication and time management skills
• A great work ethic
• Drive and ambition
• Leadership qualities
• Desire to complete CPA Experience with Xero, MYOB, Agrimaster, BGL 360 & MYOB Accountants Enterprise would also be advantageous.
sharon@bchaccountants.com.au
Applications close the October 6, 2025
READY TO ROLL: Reigning Sunnyside Bowling Club champions Jill Coutts and Gavin Walter start the 2025-26 season. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
The champions of Horsham’s Sunnyside Bowling Club are calling on more people to take up the sport.
Gavin Watson and Jill Coutts, the club’s male and female champions in the 2024-25 season, said the sport catered to people of different ages, skill sets and levels of athleticism.
“It’s full of good people and it’s a healthy pastime,” Mr Watson said.
“You don’t have to be super athletic. Anybody of any shape and any age can play, whether you’re eight or 108.
“We’ve got balance aides for anyone who needs them.”
Ms Coutts said the club aimed to foster social connection.
“I think it gives people a good opportunity to interact with one another, and we invite people from the community to come in. We encourage them if we can,” she said.
“Young children can play the game. We’d love to have more junior players join the club.
“The weekend pennant is open for anyone to play on Saturday afternoons, and midweek pennant is on Tuesday
mornings. You have your own club that you associate with, but then you’ve got all the extended people.
“There are 11 clubs in our area and we interact with them through pennant. Then you can go to tournaments and go elsewhere as well. It’s great fun.”
The 2025-26 season for the Wimmera Bowls Region’s four playing areas –Wimmera, North Wimmera, Grampians and North Central – will commence in late September and early October.
People interested in finding a club to join can visit playbowlsvictoria.com.au/ get-in-touch for more information.
SOLID: Aaron Dunn reins Forty Love to victory in the $20,000 Staffing Solutions Graduate on Saturday night at Melton Entertainment Park. Picture:
Talented colt Forty Love took another step along the path to the Sires Classic, Victoria Derby and Vicbred Series with another solid performance at Melton on Saturday night.
Drawn gate nine on the second row at the start of the 2240m contest, driver Aaron Dunn quickly slotted the son of Downbytheseaside (USA) one-out two-back in the running line with stablemate Ruff Nutt charging to the lead from barrier six with Kerryn Manning in the sulky. At the 800m mark Dunn commenced a long sustained three wide run, with Forty Love challenging the leader at the top of the home straight, with Ronnie The Hammer, Nathan Jack, sweating on a run along the sprint lane.
Forty Love proved too strong in the final stages and scored by a neck from Ronnie The Hammer with the very brave Ruff Nutt a further neck away in third place.
Racecaller Dan Mieleki summed it up best as the judge posted the numbers: “He was very impressive winning here last start. He has always looked a nice horse and I don’t think there’s any doubt about that now.”
Forty Love is the result of Dunn’s parents Yvonne and the late Barry Dunn breeding three generations from the mare Koomberkine about 30 years ago. Saturday’s success takes his record
to seven wins, seven placings and a bank of $81,986 from 20 starts.
Surfe La Mer scores
Great Western-trained filly Surfe La Mer showed plenty of class in capturing the $6000 Renown Silverware Pace in Melton on Friday.
Driver Kerryn Manning settled the daughter of American Ideal (USA) and Onthecrestofawave towards the tail of the seven runners as they found their positions for the 2240m journey.
After latching on to the back of Im All Business, Kevin Weidenbach, for a mid-race forward move to be one-one at the bell, Manning waited until the 400 before asking the lightly raced ‘girl’ for an effort.
Surfe La Mer challenged the leader at the top of the home stretch and was much too good over the final stages, scoring by seven metres in a rate of 1:58.8.
A fortnight earlier when first up after a five month absence, the filly led and was run down late by a couple of very smart ‘boys’ in Viney and Steel The Moment, indicating her turn wouldn’t be far away.
Friday night’s effort took Surfe La Mer's record to five wins, two minor placings and $22,561 from just 13 outings. – Tony Logan
Wimmera golfers figured heavily at the recent Victorian Sand Greens Championships at Charlton Golf Club on August 23 and 24.
A standout achievement was the championship win by Stawell Golf Club’s Tania Dignan, who carded a two-round score of six over par to win by four strokes from defending women’s champion Kristie Kennedy.
Wimmera District Golf Association leaders congratulated Ms Dignan on the win, as well as Dimboola Golf Club’s Ross Howlett, who won the men’s B Grade nett score on a countback.
Wimmera Veterans Golf hosted a four-ball, best-ball competition at Moor Park on September 1, with 36 players including five women attending.
Winners were David Baker and Daryl Dunford with 41 points, with David Crouch and Brian Dufty taking second place with 39 points on a countback from Ian Hair and Daryl Watson, also on 39.
Nearest-the-pin winners were: 3rd and 5th, David Crouch; 10th, Peter Hallam; 15th, John Barbetti.
The association also hosted a four-ball, best-ball competition on August 18 at Rainbow, with 53 entrants, including eight women.
Winners on a countback with 41 points were Brendan Etherton
and Graham Launer from Nhill, while the runners-up, also with 41 points, were Horsham’s David Baker and Chris Campbell of St Arnaud.
Third place went to Natimuk pair Ian Hair and Daryl Watson with 40 points.
Nearest-the-pin winners were: 3rd, Rex Konig, Murtoa; 5th, Annabelle Plowright, Horsham, and Brian Dufty, Nhill; 8th, Greg Proud, Dimboola; 10th, Anthony Jones, Moor Park, and Judy McFarlane, Nhill; 13th, Ian Hair, Natimuk, and Lynne McKenzie, Horsham; 16th, Marc Edelsten, Rainbow.
Organisers congratulated the winners of both events and thanked the Rainbow and Moor Park clubs for hosting.
Snow Barry Memorial
A field of 30 players contested the annual Snow Barry Memorial four-ball, best-ball event at Rupanyup on August 24.
A pairing of Roger Perris and Rob Exell won the event on 48 points.
Finishing behind the winners were: N. Hudson and P. Bartlett, 45 on countback from A. Jones and R. Konig, 45; C. Heintze and T. Johnson, 44 on countback.
Nearest-the-pin winners were: 3rd, R. Perris; 8th, S. Brown; 9th, P. Niewand; 13th, H. Talbot; 16th, N. Hudson.
FINAL: NoradjuhaQuantong advanced to the Horsham District Football Netball League grand final after defeating Laharum at the weekend.
Pictured in action, clockwise from above: Lachlan Phyland tackles Sean Wouters; Robbie Miller gets a kick away; Alex Ross and Judah Hobbs celebrate a goal; Laharum’s Monty Wynne; Connor O’Beirne in control; Brandon Ellis and Pat Lattanzio; and centre, Jye Walter kicks a goal.
BY SIMON KING
The battle for supremacy in Wimmera Hockey Association season 2025 is now down to two teams in each division, and by Saturday evening, all that will be left will be the three premier teams.
Each grand final will feature two teams that have proven, over 15 rounds of the regular season and two weeks of finals, to be evenly matched.
With all teams reaching the peak of their form at the right time, any combination of results would not be considered an upset.
Adding to the intrigue of the day, each team has its own motivation to strive for success, such as extending an already enviable record, ending a lengthy premiership drought, or just ensuring they have something to show for all the hard work over the past five months, and for some players, the realisation of a career-long ambition to earn a gold medallion.
The Yanac club is aiming for a fourth trifecta – winning premierships in all three competitions in the same season – the Tigers are eyeing off a record-extending 10th consecutive premiership, Yanac Women are chasing their 10th title in their 50year history, and the Dimboola Roos’ their eighth, while the under-16 Warriors can extend their domination to seven consecutive premierships, or the Leopards could win their first since 2016.
Yanac Tigers have not lost a game in their last 69 outings dating back to 2019, and although they drew two matches this season, they have plenty of big-game experience within their squad and have held firm under pressure in recent close matches.
Horsham Hurricanes had a vastly different path to the ultimate match of the season, winning four and drawing two of their 12 regular season matches. Still, after an inconsistent start, the Hurricanes’ form has been slowly building as the season has progressed, to a point where they will believe they have a serious chance of denying the Tigers a premiership for the first time in a decade.
It is difficult to tip against the Tigers’ record, but the Hurricanes’ present form, highlighted by their ability to
endure the strong challenge from the Hoops to win the preliminary final, and the game taking place on their favourite surface at Dimboola, means this match could go either way.
Yanac went through the regular season undefeated, but then stumbled against the Dimboola Roos in the semi-final before regaining their form with a hard-fought win over Kaniva in the preliminary final.
Meanwhile, the Roos’ only defeats were to Yanac, demonstrating they were clearly the best two teams in the division throughout the season.
They also share a strong recent rivalry, having met in six grand finals for three titles each between 2013 and 2019, with Yanac winning two more premierships since then, but this will be the Roos’ first season decider in six years.
On Saturday, Yanac will have the incentive to reap the rewards from their undefeated regular season, while after rejoining the competition last year after not fielding a team in 2022 or 2023, a premiership would be a fitting reward for the hard work put in to revive the team and reach such a high standard of performance in this short period of time.
Both teams enter this encounter with a realistic chance of victory, and with a mix of experienced campaigners and novice players, it will come down to composure under the pressure of playing in a high-stakes final.
Under 16
Yanac Warriors and Nhill Leopards dominated the under-16 competition in 2025, being the only teams to spend time at the top of the ladder, with the Leopards spending seven rounds there and the Warriors eight. After 15 rounds, there was a 28-point gap between the top two and third place on the ladder.
Head-to-head, the Warriors lead by three wins to one, although their last meeting in the semi-finals required a penalty shootout to separate them, suggesting they are difficult to separate. It will be composure under pressure that gives one of them the edge on the day.
The day will conclude with an awards presentation function at Dimboola Memorial Secondary College hall, where the annual general meeting will take place along with the presentation of the individual awards for the season.
Preliminary finals results –
Open: Horsham Hurricanes 2 (goals, J. Horsfall, F. Cullen; best, J. Harris, T. Leffler, T. Batchelor) d Warrack Hoops 1 (T. Jorgensen; C. Bardell, H. Wagenknecht, T. Jorgensen).
Women: Yanac Women 2 (E. Alexander, M. Mackley; M. Mackley, E. Alexander, T. Rethus) d Kaniva Women 1 (J. Braisby; S. Williams, J. Wallis, B. Williams).
Under-16: Nhill Leopards 6 (D. Bee 2, B. Clark 2, O. Bone 2; O. Bone, B. Clark, T. Bee, B. Cannell) d Warrack Revengers 0 (R. Bish, C. Peters, N. Eilola).
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Three Wimmera-based footballnetball clubs are among 19 statewide to receive grants through AFL Victoria’s WorkSafe Club Safety Fund in 2025. Wimmera Football Netball League clubs Horsham Saints and Nhill, along with Horsham District Football Netball League side Rupanyup will use the grants, which are worth up to $5000, to improve the safety of their facilities and-or assist with occupational health and safety initiatives for players, umpires, coaches, volunteers and officials.
AFL Victoria head Greg Madigan congratulated the successful clubs on taking proactive measures to improve safety for their sporting community.
“We know local footy clubs are often the centre of many country towns across Victoria, a place where people spend hours of their time every week and it’s imperative that safety upgrades are made to facilities to prevent an accident from happening,” he said.
“The Club Safety Fund is one example of WorkSafe’s longstanding support of country football, with 19 clubs and their communities set to benefit from the latest round of this important funding program.
“I thank WorkSafe for their commitment to country football and I congratulate all clubs who have successfully applied to receive funding to help generate positive outcomes for their communities.”
WorkSafe Victoria chief executive Ash West also praised the clubs for taking safety seriously.
“Every club that applied for funding has shown that safety thrives when everyone plays their part and it’s engrained in the culture, just like in footy,” he said.
“I’d like to thank each of the 19 clubs taking steps to improve their facilities through this year’s fund, and I look forward to seeing how this support will benefit each community involved.”
People can learn more about the grants by visiting play.afl/victoria/ community-programs/worksafeafl-victoria-country.
Pimpinio midfielder Matt Rosier etched his name among Horsham District Football Netball League royalty on Monday night, claiming the Dellar Medal as the senior football best and fairest.
The skilful left-footer polled 18 votes to edge out workhorse Noradjuha-Quantong ruckman Jack Vague, who was runner-up with 17 votes.
There was disappointment for Harrow-Balmoral playing coach Jai Thompson, whose 27 votes would have been enough to earn him backto-back Dellar medals, but he was ruled ineligible after accepting a reprimand in the Roos’ first match of the season.
Section 27.3.6 of the HDFNL bylaws states ‘any player who has been found guilty of an on-field offence during the home-and-away season shall not be eligible to win the award’, meaning players can be ruled ineligible without incurring a suspension.
Rosier said he felt ‘a bit wrong’ accepting the medal, but that he was heartened to have also won the best opposition player award.
“In terms of the medal, obviously it feels a bit weird because Jai had a fantastic year,” he said.
“To also knock off the best opposition player award is a bit of a feather in the cap. I suppose to get votes from opposition coaches is a bit of validation that you’ve had a good year.
“I’ll have to let it settle in, but to nab best opposition player probably makes me go ‘alright, maybe I did have a decent year’.”
Rosier’s football career has taken him across Australia, seeing him win North East Australian Football League premierships in 2011 and 2015 with the now-defunct NT Thunder before being named in the Thunder’s team of the decade in 2018.
Rosier has also suited up for South Adelaide in the South Australian National Football League, the Darwin-based Southern Districts and
Dimboola in the Wimmera Football Netball League.
But he said he had found a home at Pimpinio after crossing to the club prior to the 2024 season.
Rosier’s arrival at the Tigers has coincided with renewed team success – Pimpinio won its first final in 17 years last season before finishing third on the ladder this year – and he said the Tigers were keen to build on their momentum.
“Sometimes the stars have got to align for these sorts of individual awards to happen, but in terms of building at the club it’s been a labour of love,” he said.
Pimpinio yesterday announced Rosier would co-coach the Tigers next year along with Cullen Williams following the departure of coach Guy ‘Gyro’ Smith.
Rosier paid tribute to Smith and said he was excited by the potential of the team
“From Gyro coaching and doing a fantastic job to the development of our juniors, and all the grades this year having fantastic seasons winswise, the feeling at the club as a whole has been fantastic for the last couple of years,” he said.
“Most of the boys are committed again for next year.
“We’ll have a catch-up as a group in terms of what we’re going to do going forward.
“We’ve been taking steps every year. We had the elimination final win and then finishing top-three this year, we’ve been building every year.
“This is where the hard steps get taken in terms of winning another final and getting into a prelim, then obviously going into the big dance.”
In addition to Rosier’s two awards,
Kaniva-Leeor United full forward
Jacob Eats was recognised as the league’s leading goal-kicker, booting 74 majors in the home-and-away season.
Taylors Lake youngster Patrick Lindsey was named the best under-21 player in the league.
By Colin MacGillivray
BEST OF THE BEST: Pimpinio’s Matthew Rosier, right, is the 2025 HDFNL Dellar medallist polling 18 votes. He was also voted best opposition player. Jack Vague, left, Noradjuha-Quantong, was runner-up with 17 votes. Kaniva-Leeor United’s Jacob Eats, second from left, won the goal-kicking award, with 74 goals. Best under-21 player was Patrick Lindsey, Taylors Lake, second from right.
The reserves best and fairest went to veteran Edenhope-Apsley forward Cam Domaschenz, with Pimpinio’s Dylan Baker finishing runner-up.
Noradjuha-Quantong duo Tory Chapple and Dylan Bushby shared the reserves goal-kicking award after kicking 60 apiece during the season.
Pimpinio received the champion club award after finishing with the best cumulative performance across all grades of football and netball, and Swifts’ Nicholas Pickering received a league life membership for playing his 300th senior game.
September
HONOUR: Left, winner of the HDFNL reserves best and fairest award Cameron Domaschenz, centre, of EdenhopeApsley, is flanked by Noradjuha-Quantong pair Tory Chapple, left, and Dylan Bushby, who were joint winners of the reserves goalkicking award.
Below, life memberships were presented to Emily Hateley, Natimuk, left, Rebecca McIntyre, Laharum, centre, and Nicholas Pickering, Swifts.
By Colin MacGillivray
Newly crowned Horsham District Football Netball League
Michele Mibus medallist Lavinia Fox is unsure where she finds her energy.
The Edenhope-Apsley player not only spearheads the Saints’ A Grade side at goal attack, but coaches the team – and does so while travelling to and from Melbourne each week to balance her commitments for the Victorian Netball League’s Southern Saints.
“I don’t know where I find the energy. I must be resting the whole week when I’m not playing,” Fox joked after winning the award at Monday night’s vote count at Coughlin Park in Horsham.
Despite the multitude of commitments on Fox’s plate, she polled 29 votes to win from Taylors Lake’s Kayla Kelm on 24.
With Edenhope-Apsley preparing to play in Saturday’s grand final against Rupanyup, Fox said her focus had been elsewhere, and the medal win had caught her off guard.
“I wasn’t expecting this at all. Initially I was a bit surprised, but I’m feeling quite excited and proud,” she said.
“I think it’s a big achievement. It’s the first time I’ve ever won a league best and fairest.”
But Fox believes her individual suc-
cess has been a function of team performance.
She said the Saints’ enthusiasm for each other and the game of netball had translated into their on-court play.
“To be on the receiving end of an individual accolade is great, but I think it’s more a reflection of the team’s success, which has been my primary focus this year,” she said.
“I think I’ve learned a lot about the value of team connection. You’re as
strong as your weakest player, and that team connection is so important.
“That’s been the biggest thing for me this year – making sure everyone is, one, enjoying their netball but, two, feeling connected with one another.
“I think netball is a lot about the friendships you make along the way. It’s such a connected group – we’re all loving it when we’re out there and I think that’s what’s landed us in the grand final.”
In addition to thanking her teammates, Fox also paid tribute to her family – particularly her mother Lee.
Lee congratulated her daughter with a social media post following the count.
“Congratulations Lavinia,” she said.
“I remember Michele Mibus giving you the under-13s interleague award for Horsham District and now all these years later you’re receiving the A Grade Michele Mibus trophy. Really well done.”
Natimuk United’s Danielle Hanson had a night to remember, picking up the A Grade best opposition player award.
Rupanyup goal shooter Zanaiya Bergen was the league’s top scorer, netting 506 goals for the season at an average of more than 31 per game, while her team-mate Lucy Bussenschutt was named the best under-21 player.
The B Grade best and fairest went to Natimuk United’s Jo Taylor – a past winner of both A and B Grade awards – in a landslide, beating runner-up Kayla Weidemann of Rupanyup. Taylor’s team-mate Codi-Rae Fischer was the leading goal scorer, making 452 for the season.
A tie in the C Grade count saw Edenhope-Apsley’s Abby Hepburn and Noradjuha-Quantong’s Sophie Reid share the award ahead of runnerup Lana Ellis of Pimpinio, who also won the goal-scoring title with 357. Laharum’s Charli Watts was both the best and fairest and leading goal scorer in C Reserve, winning from runner-up Emma Criddle, of Noradjuha-Quantong.
The league also awarded life memberships to Laharum coach Rebecca McIntyre and Natimuk United’s Emily Hateley, each of whom notched their 300th A Grade games this season.
BY COLIN MACGILLIVRAY
Ararat Eagles supporters might not have any fingernails left to chew on by the time their senior side appears in this weekend’s Mininera and District Football League grand final at Mortlake.
Looking every bit a grand final certainty as they sat atop the ladder for much of the season, the Eagles were staring at the prospect of a straightsets finals exit as they trailed regional rival Tatyoon by five points at threequarter time of Saturday’s preliminary final.
The Eagles had led through the first two quarters but errant kicking – registering 7.14 to the Hawks’ 9.7 – saw their advantage slip by the final change.
A season that had seen Ararat win
its first 11 games before finishing second with a 14-2 record looked set to slip away without a finals win after Lismore-Derrinallum thrashed the Eagles in a qualifying final.
But the team’s senior leaders refused to let their side lie down.
Onballer Jesse Bennett was immense throughout the game, while Nick Dunford and coach Tom Taurau gave the team rebound off the half-back line and Andrew Cameron played one of his best games of the season, scoring three goals.
While scoring shots had been plentiful but often wayward through the first three terms, Ararat was made to work for each chance in a desperate final quarter.
The Hawks, led by a four-goal effort from spearhead Josh Lee and another inspirational performance by captain
The Weekly Advertiser will publish specially-designed posters to celebrate teams who win the Horsham District and Wimmera league senior football premierships.
Artist Dale Baker, who grew up in Horsham, has designed the posters ahead of the grand finals.
Baker has designed two posters depicting the emblems of both Horsham District league grand finalists Harrow-Balmoral and Noradjuha-Quantong – the winner will be
printed in The Weekly Advertiser’s September 17 edition.
The Wimmera league senior football premiers will also have a poster designed and printed in the September 24 edition.
The Weekly Advertiser editorial director Lauren Henry said the posters were a great way to celebrate local football finals.
“When Dale approached us to draw the posters, we jumped at the chance as he such a talented artist and with
his connection to our region, it was the perfect partnership,” she said.
“We are excited to offer footy fans the chance to have this as a keepsake to mark the winning club’s premiership success, and thank Dale for the effort he has put into the posters – we are both hoping that our readers appreciate the unique memento.”
The Weekly Advertiser will also produce premiership team posters for both the senior football and A Grade netball.
Ararat drew level early in the last term after Zach Louder’s contested mark and goal from directly in front, and Cameron put them back in front after narrowly missing what would have been his fourth goal of the afternoon.
But only moments later Taurau snuck forward to kick a goal, putting his team seven points up, and when Ben Robertson kicked his first the Eagles seemingly had one foot in the grand final.
The Hawks were far from done with however, as Lee slotted his fourth goal at the 18-minute mark.
When David Brady kicked his second at the 23-minute mark to bring Tatyoon back within a point, it was anyone’s game.
The Hawks got a quick clearance and sent the ball forward in search of
a winning score, but a game-saving tackle by Ararat’s Jake Peters on Lachie McGrath resulted in a holdingthe-ball free kick to the Eagles.
Ararat saw out a desperate final three minutes with scrappy defending across the ground, and the siren sounded before Tatyoon’s final kick inside its attacking 50-metre arc had a chance to be marked.
The 10.15 (75) to 11.8 (74) thriller sets up a rematch between the Eagles and Lismore-Derrinallum – a team they beat during the home-and-away season before a crushing 86-point qualifying final loss.
The Eagles have extra reason to celebrate, with their reserves and under-18 sides also qualifying for grand finals against Lismore-Derrinallum and Penshurst respectively.
Horsham Demons has announced a new senior coach for 2026-27 with Jake Short to take over from Jordyn Burke.
Short, who has played all his football at Redan in the Ballarat league, will be a playing coach for the Demons.
“Short brings a wealth of football knowledge and expertise after a long career at Redan that will serve our young playing group well heading to the future,” the Demons announced on its Facebook page.
Short’s wife Ginger, originally from Horsham, will play netball for the Demons, and has also opened an osteopathic business in Horsham.
Minyip-Murtoa has also announced a new coach for season 2026, with current player Luke Fisher taking over from Gareth Hose.
Fisher, a premiership player with the Burras in 2022, has previously coached at Donald and Horsham Saints.
He also brings a raft of football experience with him after playing in several leagues across western Victoria.
The Burras thanked Hose for his commitment to coaching the past two seasons.
“Your dedication, passion and tireless work for the Burras have left a lasting impact on our players, our culture, and our community. You’ve guided us with strength and humility,
and we are so grateful for the legacy you leave behind,” the club posted on Facebook.
In other Wimmera league coaching news, Warrack Eagles and its senior coach Matt Walder have parted ways.
In a Facebook post, the Eagles thanked Walder for the past two years when he joined after coaching Ararat to a premiership.
“It’s been a journey of highs, lows, growth, and plenty of lessons, all handled with incredible dedication, leadership, and care. Matt, your ability to connect with the group, on and off the field, your commitment, and the way you showed up week in, week out, not just for footy, but for the people, has left a lasting impact,” the post read.
Last month, Stawell also announced the reappointment of both coaches, playing coach James O’Sullivan and non-playing Perry Meka. Ararat has reappointed Tom Williamson for next season, with current co-coach Tom Mills stepping down. Mills will remain with the Rats as a player in 2026.
In other coaching news, former Wimmera star footballer Marc Greig will coach Redan in the Ballarat Football Netball League. Greig, who has coached Warracknabeal, is a wellcredentialed coach having been a senior coach at VFL and TAC Cup level.
The rematch the Horsham District Football Netball League has waited for is set.
Nearly a year to the day of their classic 2024 grand final encounter, Harrow-Balmoral and NoradjuhaQuantong’s senior sides will again do battle on the league’s biggest stage in a showdown at Natimuk Showground on Saturday.
The narratives for both sides are compelling.
The Roos are attempting to become the first HDFNL side to claim three straight senior flags since the legendary Kalkee team that won five in a row between 2008 and 2012, while the Bombers remain in search of their first senior premiership following the merger of Noradjuha and Quantong in 1997.
In last season’s grand final the Bombers were firm underdogs but gave the undefeated Roos their closest shave of the season, coming within 13 points.
This season, however, has been different.
Noradjuha-Quantong topped the ladder with 15 wins and one loss, while the Roos endured what could only be considered a down year because of the near-impossible standards they set across the previous two seasons – ending 2023 and 2024 without a loss.
This year Harrow-Balmoral dropped two games, including a grand final rematch against the Bombers in round eight that ended a 42-game winning streak.
The Roos dealt with a spate of midseason injuries, with coach Jai Thompson, midfielder Will Plush, goal kicker Cody Deutscher and brothers Michael and Simon Close all missing multiple matches.
But as they showed in a qualifying final against the Bombers, the Roos at full strength remain hard to top.
Harrow-Balmoral beat the Bombers by a slender 11-point margin, advancing directly to the grand final and leaving Noradjuha-Quantong to earn its spot the hard way in Saturday’s preliminary final against Laharum.
And while the scoreboard at the weekend showed an 8.8 (56) to 3.9 (27) win for the Bombers, it was anything but easy.
Laharum goaled inside the first minute through Pat Lattanzio, but a mix of inaccuracy and a stout NoradjuhaQuantong defence led by Dyson Parish and Nigel Kelly ensured the Demons would manage only two more majors for the rest of the afternoon.
The absence of injured co-coach
Shannon Argall in the ruck was telling for Laharum, as the likes of Jayden Besford, Riley Dunlop and James Gregg feasted off the tapwork of Bomber Jack Vague.
Daniel Easson and youngster Monty Wynne were terrific for Laharum and Todd Heynen was composed at half back, but Noradjuha-Quantong eventually overwhelmed its opponent, with Judah Hobbs and Jye Walter each kicking two goals.
Execution the key
Bombers coach Damian Cameron said his team was thrilled to earn another chance at grand final glory after coming close last season.
“We’re obviously excited to have another crack at it,” he said.
“Getting beaten in the semi-final showed there’s still a gap between the two sides at the moment.
“They’ve got all their players back at the right time of the year and they’re firing, so we’ll have to get a lot right, but we’re excited for it.”
Cameron said neither side was vastly different – in terms of both line-up and game style – from the teams that squared off in last season’s grand final.
By Colin MacGillivray
“We know Harrow-Balmoral is really, really well structured and well drilled, and are team-first sort of players. To beat that we’ve got to match that with our team-first attitude,” he said.
“Obviously we want our forwards to fire. Our defenders have been good all year and it’s a good midfield battle, so hopefully it’s a good game.”
Harrow-Balmoral vice-captain Will Burbury agreed with Cameron’s assessment.
“There’s probably not a heap of changes from each side, really,” he said.
“‘Quanny’ are really powerful forward, so for us it will be about trying to win it out of the middle and not let them get that opportunity.
“We were evenly matched a fortnight ago and have been in previous years as well, so it will be just whoever can get it done.”
Noradjuha-Quantong’s strength across its football department will be highlighted on grand final day, with the Bombers also qualifying for the reserves and under-14 premiership deciders.
The Bombers’ reserves team, which finished with 15 wins and a draw en route to a minor premiership, will square off with Pimpinio.
Meanwhile Noradjuha-Quantong’s under-14 side will play a Taylors Lake team that defeated the Bombers twice in the home-and-away season before losing to them in a semi-final by 54 points.
The under-17 grand final will see a match-up between Pimpinio and a combined side of Edenhope-Apsley and Kaniva-Leeor United juniors, with each of the sides having beaten the other once this season.
After a Horsham District A Grade netball season dubbed the most even in recent memory by many of the league’s coaches, it was the top two sides on the ladder that reached the grand final.
Minor premier Rupanyup will meet Edenhope-Apsley in Saturday’s season decider at Natimuk in a clash of two stylistically different but evenly matched opponents.
The Panthers will have no shortage of motivation to win after losing last year’s grand final against Laharum in a two-goal heartbreaker.
Rupanyup is still in search of its first A Grade premiership but has arguably its best chance to end its drought after topping the ladder with 15 wins.
Georgia Hiscock has returned to coach the side after a year overseas, adding depth to an already strong midcourt that includes her sister Ally along with Holly Ross and Meg Cashin.
Victoria Taylor and rising young talent Lucy Bussenschutt have anchored the league’s stingiest defence, while
goal shooter Zanaiya Bergen was the league’s top goal scorer this season.
But the Saints might feature an even more formidable goaling circle set-up, with newly crowned league best and fairest and coach Lavinia Fox at goal attack and Victorian Netball Leaguelisted player Dee Dee Lambert at goal shooter.
Lambert’s dead-eye shooting has been key for the Saints since she joined the team midway through the season, scoring 323 times in just nine home-and-away games at an average of nearly 36 per contest.
Edenhope-Apsley’s road to the grand final has been unique, after the Saints won back-to-back A Grade flags in 2022 and 2023 before most of their senior players departed last season.
Fox has rebuilt the Saints’ roster, with only a pair of players remaining from the team’s last premiership tilt.
The team’s strength was on show at the weekend as it defeated Kalkee 37-30 in a preliminary final only two weeks after dropping a one-goal thriller against the Kees in a qualify-
ing final. Edenhope-Apsley goal defence Oliva Spence and keeper Danielle Grindlay worked hard to nullify Kalkee goalies Jarrah Martin, Isobelle Schorback and coach Paula Wiedermann, while Fox, 19 goals, and Lambert, 18, split duties evenly in attack.
Hayley Campbell and Jas McIntyre also worked hard defensively in the midcourt, helping hold the Kees to their lowest score of the season.
The Panthers and Saints have met twice this season – a 42-29 win for Rupanyup in round five and a 47-46 thriller going the Panthers’ way in round 16.
Members of both teams said they expected Saturday’s grand final to resemble the latter contest more closely than the former.
“Hopefully it’ll be a really good game. It was a one-point game when we played each other in round 16, so it should be a good one,” Fox said.
“We’re very well matched. There’s a lot of skill across the board for Rupanyup and they’re a very athletic group.
“They’re very well drilled, so for us
we’ll be trying to match that.” Bergen said the Panthers were anxious and eager in equal measure.
“We’re feeling a bit nervous but we’re excited. It’s going to be a good game on the weekend. It’s going to be a nice and tough game and I’m excited,” she said.
“We’ve worked on a lot of things since the last grand final and it’s all come into play within this season.
“I think it’s really shown within our team, so we’ll just have to wait and see on Saturday how well we’re putting that all together.
“We match up pretty well. It’s always a good game when we play Edenhope-Apsley, so we can’t wait for Saturday.”
Natimuk United will enter as favourite in Saturday’s B Grade netball grand final after going undefeated in 2025.
Fortuitously for the Rams, they will meet their closest challenger, Noradjuha-Quantong, in a grand final on
their home court at Natimuk. The C Grade grand final will be a surprise match-up of Kalkee and NoradjuhaQuantong after undefeated minor premier Pimpinio sensationally crashed out of the finals in straight sets, while Laharum and Noradjuha-Quantong will contest the C Reserve grand final. Kalkee appears to be in the box seat to claim the 17-and-under premiership after an undefeated season, but will face Natimuk United on its home court.
The 15-and-under grand final pits the top two teams, Pimpinio and Laharum, against each other, with the Demons being the only team to have defeated the minor-premier Tigers this season.
Natimuk United and Kalkee are grand finalists in the 13-and-under competition after ousting minor premier Rupanyup, with Natimuk United having won both their meetings this season by three goals or less.
By Lauren Henry
Two crackerjack finals featured in Wimmera league senior football at the weekend, with the previously undefeated Ararat losing to Southern Mallee Thunder, while Nhill scored a four-point win over Dimboola.
The second semi-final at Minyip on Saturday produced a final that will long live in the memory bank, as the Thunder handed the Rats its first loss this season in what was a physical and controversial match.
A close first term set up an even contest, with Thunder’s Sam White kicking two goals early before the Rats hit back with two goals – one through Sonny Kettle on the siren.
Two minutes into the second quarter, Ararat co-coach Tom Williamson was sent off with a yellow card for rough conduct against Thunder captain Billy Lloyd.
A 50-metre penalty resulted in a goal to Thunder’s Reid Polak, before another a free kick was immediately paid to Thomas Clarke in front of goal to put Southern Mallee 14 points ahead.
With 17 players on the field, the Rats had their work cut out for them and the Thunder took full advantage
to push the margin out to 22 points by half-time.
Ararat came out with a fire in its belly in the third term, as Williamson
led the way in what was an eight-goal quarter for the Rats.
Williamson, Hugh Toner, Luke Spalding and Kettle each kicked two
goals to turn the game around, and put Ararat ahead 66-46 at three-quartertime.
As play was about to resume in the fourth term, the umpires informed Williamson he was to be sent off again – for what is understood to be a vilification charge against a Thunder player – and because it was his second yellow card for the game, he would sit off for the remainder of the match.
In chaotic scenes, the co-coach argued with umpires and officials before returning to the bench and could only watch on as the Thunder piled on three quick goals to put themselves back in the match.
Scores were level before Spalding added another for Ararat, but the Thunder responded with two goals of their own to hit the lead, and win the match 80-73.
Angus Dewar, Coleman Schache and Jarrod Stokes were named the Thunder’s best, while for the Rats, it was Sonny Kettle, Harry Ganley and Ben Taylor who impressed.
The Thunder now progresses to the grand final at Warracknabeal on September 20, while Ararat must play in this Saturday’s preliminary final to earn its place in the grand final.
Depending on a potential tribunal
As expected Horsham Saints are the first team to book their spot in the Wimmera league A Grade grand final after a win over Horsham Demons in the second semi-final.
It was a competitive, high-standard netball match from the outset at Minyip on Saturday.
The Saints were able to create an eight-goal buffer by quarter-time, but the Demons rallied in the second term, making positional changes to find the right mix.
Saints coach Vernetta Taylor said the Demons put the pressure on the Saints in the second term.
“Right at the end of the second, they actually got a bit of a run on, so while we were still ahead, it didn’t feel comfortable at all,” she said.
“We did a bit of regrouping at halftime and just said okay, let’s just focus on our game structure, do what we know works, keep it simple – and that’s what we went and did in the third quarter, and we really had a cracking third, which set us up for the game.”
The Saints, through goalers Jorja Clode and
Abby Hallam, scored 23 goals in the third term, with the Demons adding 11, giving the Saints a 22-goal lead going into the fourth term.
The Demons continued to make positional changes, rotating players through the centre, changing their defence lineup and also putting their coach Georgie Carberry into goals to mix up their attacking lineup.
The Demons outscored the Saints by one goal in the last quarter, but the Saints were able to hang on to a comfortable margin, with the final score 72-51.
Best players were named as Saints’ goal attack Hallam, who sank several long-range goals, and wing defence Shannon Cross; while for the Demons, goaler Imogen Worthy, and defender Romi Miller – a key player for the Demons who has returned to the side to play finals after playing most of the season at Birchip.
“We know the Demons are going to get stronger every time they play – they obviously get to play Dimboola this week, and that will be a cracking match and we’re really excited to
see who we’re going to line up against in the grand final,” Taylor said.
Dimboola won a thriller against Southern Mallee Thunder in the first semi-final at Ararat on Sunday to advance its way through to the preliminary final this weekend.
A close first half had the Thunder leading by five goals at halftime, as the Thunders’ defenders Sydney Thorogood and Abby White got the better of the Roos’ attack.
But an 11-8 third term to Dimboola’s advantage brought back the margin to just two goals by the last break.
Roos captain Rianna Kuhne and defender Stephanie Glover stepped up in the last quarter and Dimboola’s never-say-die attitude came to the fore.
High-intensity netball played out in the fourth quarter, as the Roos outscored the Thunder 13-9 to win 40-38.
The result ended the Thunder’s season, while Dimboola will progress to the preliminary final against the Demons at Horsham City Oval on Saturday.
hearing outcome, the Rats may be missing Williamson for the preliminary final at Horsham City Oval, but will regain co-coach Tom Mills and lively forward Jack Ganley – both of whom did not play on Saturday.
Standing in the Rats’ way will be Nhill, who scored a historic win over Dimboola at Ararat on Sunday.
In a strong wind favouring the Tigers in the first quarter, Nhill produced one of its best starts for the year, taking a 40-1 lead into quarter-time.
However Dimboola fought its way back into the game, kicking 2.5 to Nhill’s one point in the second term, to have the scoreboard sit at 41-18 in favour of the Tigers.
It was an even third quarter as both sides kicked three goals before the Roos mounted a comeback in a raindrenched last quarter to get within four points of the Tigers.
Nhill’s work to tag Roos’ superstar Dylan Landt out of the game was instrumental in the win, as was the influence of the returning Frazer Driscoll and the ruck work of Dan Batson.
The Tigers, who celebrated their win loud and proud afterwards, now progress to the preliminary final – a week deeper into the finals series than what they achieved last year.
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
Horsham City Rowing Club
and Hamilton Rowing Club are set to join forces to enter two teams in the 2025 Flying Doctor Rowathon, marking Horsham’s debut in the iconic event.
The Flying Doctor Rowathon, to be held on Saturday, is Australia’s longest one-day marathon rowing regatta, covering about 75 kilometres along the Darling and Murray rivers.
Hosted by the Wentworth District Rowing Club, the event raises money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, supporting mental-health programs in remote communities.
Five rowers – Jeremy Matheson, Lachlan Lindorff, Cadel Hawken, Sarah Tottenham and Claudi Moretti – will represent Horsham at the regatta.
Horsham Rowing Club president Ray White said the athletes would combine boats and crews with Hamilton rowers to gain experience and contribute to a cause close to many rural hearts.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for our rowers to challenge themselves and be part of something bigger,” Mr White said.
“We’re proud to be entering the Rowathon for the first time and look forward to building strong ties with Hamilton.”
The Rowathon is the beginning of a busy season for Horsham, with entries planned for several major regattas including Essendon, Geelong, Bendigo, Dimboola, Hamilton, Nagambie, Wendouree, Head of the Yarra and Rutherglen.
Mr White said people could support the club’s growing ambitions by attending its annual Trivia with a Twist fundraiser.
The event will be on Friday, October 24 from 7pm at the Horsham Football Netball clubrooms.
Mr White said it would be a night of laughter and auction, with people welcome to bring their friends and book a table to support local rowing talent.
For tickets, people can contact Mr White at ray_white@live.com.au.
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TALENT: Mason Kennedy has added to his collection of athletics medals.
Horsham athlete Mason Kennedy, 9, competed in the two-kilometre School Sport Australia Championship cross country race in Queensland on Monday.
Finishing in a time of 10:24, bettering his state-run time of 10:36.05, Kennedy placed seventh in his individual race.
He placed second overall with the Victorian multi-class 10-year-old team, bringing home a silver medal.
Member for Wannon Dan Tehan is calling for community members across the electorate to submit nominations for the 2025 Wannon Sport and Volunteer Awards. The awards recognise individuals and teams who demonstrate excellence, commitment and achievement in sport at any level. Categories include primary and secondary school, individual or team achievement; and open, individual or team achievement. Mr Tehan said people could submit nominations via dantehan.com.au before October 1.
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