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Vol. 29 No. 13

A FREE PUBLICATION FROM YOUR LOCAL RADIO STATIONS 3WM AND MIXXFM

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

GENERATIONAL: Andrea Cross’ family has long been involved in the annual Horsham Show, with the fourth generation in her living memory now volunteering for the event. The current agricultural society secretary, Mrs Cross said her father used to supply animals for the animal nursery. Her son Dalton, pictured alongside his children Lacey and Denver, is now animal nursery co-ordinator. “I grew up in the cattle shed as a kid, so for me, it’s the full circle,” Mrs Cross said. This year, the animal nursery will be part of an agricultural hub in the Maydale Pavilion. The Horsham Show is on Saturday and Sunday. More details, page 13. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Protest prelude L

BY LAUREN HENRY

andowner rights and protecting food production, raised at a meeting in Murtoa last week, will be among key issues highlighted at a protest set for the steps of Parliament House next month.

Wimmera league premiers’ posters INSIDE TODAY

The Across Victoria Alliance is coordinating a Victoria Unites protest on October 9, focusing on the issues of transport, roads and fuel, the Emergency Services Volunteer Fund tax and protecting food production, ahead of the November state election. Organiser of the Victoria Unites rally, Rupanyup farmer Andrew Weidemann, spoke at the Murtoa community meeting about the same issues that will form part of a rally that he hopes will at-

tract both people from Melbourne and across regional Victoria. The September 14 meeting was in response to two applications for mining exploration licences on large sections of land at Murtoa and near Warracknabeal. World Minerals and Resources has applied for one licence covering 732km2 of land, including the town of Murtoa; and another 873km2 section two kilometres south of Warracknabeal. Many community members only discovered the two licence applications when they read The Weekly Advertiser’s September 2 edition classifieds section, where the two notices of application were published. Business owner, nurse and farmer’s wife Casey Kosch organised the last-

minute meeting, which attracted more than 100 people from Warracknabeal, Minyip, Rupanyup and surrounds. “We realise it’s only exploration licences, but that’s where it all starts,” she said. “We just want the laws to change in Victoria to match Western Australia and Queensland, where we have to agree to mining being on our land. “I have no issue with mining at all. It’s just compulsory acquisition of land in our food bowl is not okay.” Mrs Kosch said she felt passionate about protecting agricultural land because she wanted to be able to pass the couple’s farm onto their children. “It is clear that our beautiful part of Australia, which produces world-class produce including grain, pulses, oil-

seeds, pigs, lamb, poultry and wool, is under threat,” she said. “Our food sources, water sources and the health of our community must be protected. “We must all work together as a large community to ensure our future generations can continue to farm.” Mrs Kosch said Australia was among 195 countries to sign The Paris Agreement, a legally binding international treaty on climate change in 2015, which stated: ‘Increasing the ability to adapt to the adverse impacts of climate change and foster climate resilience and low greenhouse gas emissions development, in a manner that does not threaten food production’. Continued page 3

IN THIS ISSUE • Visa delay headaches • Region’s roads ranked among worst • Junior volleyball championships Phone: 03 5382 1351 Read it online: www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

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Another blow to agriculture Take action F

BY LAUREN HENRY

armers are starting to hit the panic button as visas for overseas workers continue to be delayed, set to cause issues for this year’s grain harvest.

Farmers have been reporting for months about slow or non-existent approvals of visas for farm workers from overseas, but Immigration Minister Tony Burke’s announcement last week of further restrictions with the introduction of a ballot system was another blow to agriculture. Mr Burke told the National Press Club there were 57,000 people on second-year 417 visas last year, and 31,000 on third-year visas. He said a new ballot system would cap second-year visas to 45,000, and slash third-year visas to 5000. Working holiday makers fill about one in seven farm jobs nationally, but are especially important during peak demand periods, making up about 44 per cent of the horticulture workforce and 31 per cent of grains. They spend $4.68-billion annually in the Australian economy, including about $726-million in regional communities. The Victorian Farmers Federation, VFF, warned the Federal Government its changes to the visa system showed it was failing to listen to farmers and understand the workforce realities facing agriculture. The National Farmers’ Federation, NFF, said the government was ‘putting Australia’s food security, regional economies and farm safety at risk’ with the new visa system.

The NFF has sought urgent engagement with government and all sides of politics, including through a joint letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and requests to meet with Mr Burke. NFF officials say the farming sector was facing intense cost pressure, with broadacre cropping profits expected to fall sharply this season, driven partly by rising fuel and fertiliser costs. VFF president and Minyip farmer Ryan Milgate said farmers were ‘fuming’ and it was ‘pure arrogance’ for the government to make decisions without consulting agricultural groups. “ They’ve no idea about the impact of what they’re doing,” he said. “If they want to tighten immigration, that’s fine, but they’ve got to communicate and let us know what’s going on, not just say ‘oh, we’ve slowed it down’, when it’s too late.” Mr Milgate said the government’s proposed visa-processing time of up to three months was out of step with the realities of agricultural production. “Farmers are heading into harvest and peak production, yet the government is introducing changes that would strip thousands of workers from an industry already under enormous workforce pressure,” he said. “The ballot significantly diminishes the reward for taking on farm work, yet there has been no modelling released on how this change could affect the number of working holiday makers choosing agriculture.

“It is reckless, with potential catastrophic outcomes.” While the VFF welcomed a partial restoration of agriculture to the priority visa-processing queue for skilled workers, Mr Milgate said the change still left agriculture well below its previous position. He said a lack of forewarning and timing of the announcement had compounded the problem. “Agriculture cannot operate on a timetable set months or years in advance. Our workforce needs are dictated by the weather, crop conditions and when produce is ready to harvest,” he said. “The reality is they need to let these people in for this harvest. “If they want to make changes then let’s sit down and have a conversation and see what it looks like, but they can’t just pull the rug out from under us. “I’m hearing stories of hundreds upon hundreds of people who have jobs lined up and can’t get a visa, so they can’t come and do their job.”

Tourism hit

Mr Milgate said allowing fewer backpackers to work would have an impact on all regional areas, particularly tourism. “It fills the skills gap and then they spend all their money where they’re working or travelling around, so it helps the economy,” he said. The Victorian Tourism Industry Council warned changes to the system risked stripping regional Victoria of thousands of workers and visitors at a time when tourism businesses

LAUNCHPAD: Horsham Rural City Council’s free, all-ages Music @ May event on Friday showcased a host of emerging musical talent from across the district. State Governmentfunded through the youth Amplify program, the event’s acts were: Senocide, 345, AC/ DCeased, Sneeze, 8TheLemon, Soup Induced Hysteria, Charlotte Dahl, 20 Weeds Deep, Dan Inkster, and The Crooked Footpath. Horsham College rock band 20 Weeds Deep’s Ryan Frahn is pictured on stage at Horsham’s May Park. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

were already struggling to find staff. VTIC analysis estimates Victoria could lose about 8700 backpackers, including 3000 from regional areas, resulting in 2.1-million fewer visitor nights, $129-million in lost tourism expenditure and potentially 1020 jobs. The VTIC urged the Federal Government to work with the tourism industry that protects the integrity of the visa system without undermining the regional workforce and visitor economy. Member for Mallee Anne Webster said the new visa system would ‘destroy regional communities and create enormous panic across farming communities’. “Labor also clearly has no clue that broadacre farmers and harvesting contractors regularly bring back the same experienced people from countries such as the United Kingdom, Ireland and Canada because they know the machinery, understand the work and can be trusted during the most important weeks of the farming year,” she said. “You can’t put inexperienced operators in that equipment. A ballot flies in the face of bringing that skilled labour back year after year.” Member for Lowan and shadow agricultural minister Emma Kealy called on the State Government to urgently intervene and said state Agriculture Minister Michaela Settle must stand up for Victorian agriculture and demand the visa delays were fixed and agricultural workers prioritised.

From page 1 Mrs Kosch called on the State Government to introduce legislation allowing farming families to have the right to approve or deny mining on their farms. “We want the Victorian government to ensure mining operations are closely monitored with action taken and penalties applied if they do not comply,” she said. “We just want a choice – not to have the mining companies choose our future for us due to lack of legislation.” Mrs Kosch said people could object to the exploration licences – the Warracknabeal application closed today and submissions to the Murtoa licence closed on September 30. More information can be found at amets.com.au/victoria-tenements. Mr Weidemann, who also heads the Dunmunkle Land Protection Group, said the focus was really about the unknown. “We’ve actually been through a lot of this stuff with exploration licences and so forth. It’s probably more down the track that our focus is about protecting farm, prime land, ag rights, and ensuring we get a policy in place that does that,” he said. “You would have to wonder why a state department would leave towns like Rupanyup and Murtoa in an exploration license. The communities have got concerns around anything from a mining aspect being closer than probably 15 kilometres from them.” Mr Weidemann said the Melbourne rally on October 9 would include speakers on issues such as protecting prime agricultural land and food-bowl production, as well as related topics on the condition of roads and fuel costs, which would involve people from the transport industry, and energy-related topics. “ This is the last big rally we’ll be doing, and we wanted to make it big,” he said. “I think what we’re trying to do is engage the city people in this rally, and any townspeople, businesspeople, because what we’re talking about in all of this is affecting them.” Victorian Farmers Federation president and Minyip farmer Ryan Milgate also spoke at the Murtoa meeting about what the VFF was doing to help landowners facing threats to their land. “People are really uneasy about what it all means and the lack of consultation and the way that all these companies go about doing businesses. That’s what sort of really caused the concern,” he said. “Instead of just throwing an ad in the paper and blindsiding everyone – the companies need to come and start talking to people. What are they actually doing? What’s their plan? Who are they?” Mr Milgate said having any type of mining licence over a township and public infrastructure should not be allowed. “Allowing foreign-controlled companies to have any sort of control or influence over publicly-owned land and particularly strategic assets is absolute madness and it should never, ever happen,” he said.

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HRCC NEWS Nominate Now for the 2027 Australia Day Awards

FIREWORKS WARNING - HORSHAM SHOW With fireworks planned as part of the Horsham Show, pet owners are reminded that loud noises and bright flashes can be frightening for animals. To help keep your pets safe and calm: • Ensure your dog or cat is securely contained before the fireworks begin. • Check that fences, gates and enclosures are secure. • Make sure your pet's registration and microchip details are up to date.

CAREERS AT HRCC LEADING HAND LANDFILL Permanant Full Time Closes Sunday 27 September MECHANIC Permanant Full Time Closes Thursday 31 October To apply for these jobs or to view casual and part-time positions, please visit the HRCC website or scan the QR code.

• Provide a safe, comfortable place indoors where your pet can retreat. Horsham Rural City Council is inviting the community to take part in this year’s Australia Day Awards by nominating a standout citizen, young achiever, or event that deserves recognition. The Australia Day Awards honour individuals and groups who have made a meaningful and lasting impact on the Horsham region. Nominations are now open in the following categories: • Citizen of the Year (25 years or older as of 26 January 2027) • Young Citizen of the Year (Under 25 years as of 26 January 2027) • Community Event of the Year Nomination forms are available online or in hard copy at the Civic Centre. Submissions close: Friday 16 October, 2026.

Horsham RegFest Tickets Available Now!

• Keep dogs on leads and cats indoors during the event. • Consider leaving a radio or television on to help mask the noise. Unfortunately, every year some pets become distressed and escape during fireworks displays. Taking a few simple precautions can help prevent your beloved pet from becoming lost.

Rural Transfer Station Closures This Week Due to resourcing constraints, the following Rural Transfer Stations will be temporarily closed:

During these closures, residents can dispose of waste at the Horsham Transfer Station, located at 93 Kenny Road, Horsham, which is open daily from 10am to 5pm.

Preparedness Expo

2026 Seniors Festival Events Announced Horsham will take centre stage this October as some of Australia's biggest country music names roll into town for a festival expected to draw music fans from across the state and beyond.

Everyone is welcome to attend. This free community event will run from 10am to 2pm at the Natimuk Showgrounds. Local businesses, community groups and organisations that provide products, services, expertise or advice related to emergency preparedness, resilience and recovery are encouraged to register for a free stall site.

CELEBRATE SENIORS FESITVAL IN HORSHAM! Come and Try Croquet with Afternoon Tea

FRI 09/10 1PM - 3PM

Seniors Concert: Frankly Sinatra - A Tribute to Ol’ Blue Eyes, presented by Horsham Rural City Council Horsham Church of Christ, 91 River Road Stay for a cuppa from 2pm to connect with local services.

Grow Your Social Media Skills

SUN 11/10 1:30PM - 4PM

Horsham Historical Society Open Day

Learn how to create engaging content, reach the right audience and strengthen your online presence at this free Business Victoria workshop.

Riverside Walk WED 14/10 8:50AM FOR A Horsham Angling Club car park, Dixon Drive 9AM START

Book your spot with the QR Code.

The community is invited to come together for a day of connection, information, entertainment and family-friendly fun when Natimuk hosts the Preparedness Expo on Sunday 4 October 2026.

Reserve your site with the QR code.

SUN 04/10 2PM

• Monday 5 October • 5.30pm to 8.30pm • Wimmera Business Centre, Horsham • Free, with light refreshments provided

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

GRASS FLAT FIRE RECOVERY EVENTS

For more information, please contact Council on 03 5382 9777.

You will learn how to choose the right platforms, create content that connects with your audience and use Google Business Profile to help customers find you.

26-017 THE WESLEY REDEVELOPMENT Closes Wednesday 14 October

Please note that Quantong Transfer Station will remain open on Saturday 26 September 2026 as scheduled.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused.

Book your tickets with the QR code, or visit regfest.com.au

08-2027 ENGAGEMENT OF A CONSULTANT - MAJOR PROJECTS DEVELOPMENT & DELIVERY SERVICES Closes Monday 5 October

Quantong – Wednesday 23 September 2026 Toolondo – Thursday 24 September 2026 Mt Zero – Saturday 26 September 2026

Alternatively Council is offering free waste disposal at the above rural transfer stations during opening hours on the follow week, 28 September to 3 October 2026.

Horsham Rural City Council, in partnership with promoter RegFest, has confirmed the event will take place on Saturday 24 October 2026 at the events stage at Horsham City Oval.

TENDERS AND RFQ

Horsham Croquet Club, Botanical Gardens, Guilfoyle Drive

Horsham Historical Society, 33 Pynsent Street

WED 14/10 2PM - 4PM

High Tea for Seniors

WED 14/10 2PM - 4PM

Horsham and District U3A

FRI 16/10 9AM - 11AM

Come and Try Table Tennis with Morning Tea

TUE 27/10 2:30PM - 5PM

Silver Strings

Horsham Neighbourhood House, 13–15 Robin Street

Join Horsham and District U3A for their regular Wednesday afternoon classes and activities, followed by a healthy afternoon tea. Horsham Table Tennis Association, 11 Harriett Street

Live performance and sing-along. Roberts Ave.

STAY UP TO DATE Know what's happening at HRCC. Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter.

Next Council Meeting: Monday, September 28, 2026 - 5.30pm Horsham Rural City Council: 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham | Postal address: PO Box 511 Horsham VIC 3402 | Phone: (03) 5382 9777 | Email: council@hrcc.vic.gov.au | Web: www.hrcc.vic.gov.au HRCC News

Page 4

September 23, 2026 edition

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Experts present in Dridan case BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

he trial into the death of Pimpinio teenager Trent DeZoete continued at the Melbourne County Court this week, where Wendouree man Bryce Dridan is answering a charge of culpable driving.

Civilian, police and expert witnesses gave statements during the past week pertaining to the November 4, 2023 incident at Stawell Motorsports Club’s LOO5ENATS event, where Mr DeZoete was struck by Dridan’s car in the food court area after it left the skid pad. An administration assistant gave evidence stating she could not find registration or completed scrutineering paperwork for Dridan following the incident, while a medical practitioner and approved expert under the Road Safety Act said Dridan tested positive to stimulant drug methylamphetamine. The doctor said Dridan’s blood showed a level of 0.2 milligrams per litre of blood after the collision. His blood was collected at Stawell hospital. A preliminary breath-test at the scene returned a negative reading, while a

preliminary oral fluid-test showed a positive reading. “Methylamphetamine has the effect spectrum that includes euphoria – a heightened happiness, often unrelated to the circumstances – restlessness, agitation, rapid and confused speech, also paranoia, and erratic, violent and aggressive behaviour,” he said. “It affects the brain’s executive functions, such as decision-making and judgement.” A pharmacologist and toxicologist anticipated Dridan would have ingested methylamphetamine in the 12 to 24 hours prior to the blood sample being taken, but could not determine the effect the drug had on him. He said Dridan had a ‘biologically significant concentration’, but that did not definitively inform the level of impairment. Police interviewed Dridan after the incident – bodycam footage of which was shown in court. Dridan told police that, while on the skid pad, he told his passenger, ‘we’ve got no brakes’. Video footage taken during Dridan’s time on the skid pad was shown to the jury. A Victoria Police mechanical in-

vestigator pinpointed the moment the Holden Commodore VU utility’s front-left brake-line failed. “I’m actually seeing the passenger side front wheel lock and hear it screech … and it skidding on the surface,” he said. “It’s my opinion that’s when it fails, at nine seconds. “That flexible brake line is now under pressure because the brakes are applied, and it’s pulling that fixed brake line away, so it’s at maximum strain. “There has to be some level of braking to allow for the other part of the burnout to complete, but it’s my opinion that it’s failed there, and it’s in that next sequence of burnouts, where the driver realises there is an issue. “The driver’s side front brake will be doing something, passenger’s side front break will be doing nothing. And the pedal will be travelling to the floor. It may have already reached the floor.” An event security-guard, one of three, said she was rostered to ‘deal with unruly behaviour, lost children and the like’. While she did not see Dridan enter the skid pad, the noise of his car distracted her from a man she was

dealing with. “I saw red lights come on and marshals gesturing, and the ute continue trying to hang skids,” she said. “The marshals were waving to get attention, and the red light kept getting turned on and off.” She said she watched the car leave the pad and continue into the food court area, where she said she ‘did everything she could’ to help following the collision. An event stallholder said Dridan was asked over the PA system to leave the skid pad. “They never leave that quick, they usually stop to see the safety officers and get checked over, I’ve seen other cars do it,” he said. “It came off too hot. I don’t know how fast he was going, maybe 40. “It was going faster than everyone else, I couldn’t say for sure. I think he clipped one of the fire marshals. “I turned to one of my mates and said ‘he’s going to hit someone’. The way he went out of that gate, it made no sense. “He could have hit anything else, it’s such a great distance. It’s not like the food court is right there.” The court was told WorkSafe rep-

resentatives visited the scene on the evening of the incident, but did not investigate as the event did not constitute a workplace, despite security guards, fire crew and food court vendors in paid roles. A statement from Mr DeZoete’s friend was read to the court; they were part of a small group that had travelled to the event to watch and camp the night. The pair was walking to the food court when the ute struck Mr DeZoete from behind and carried him forward several metres. “I got to Trent and patted him on the back and told him he was all right,” he said. “I heard someone say first-aid, I knew where that was, so I ran there, banged on the window and told the lady my mate had been hit by a car. “I ran back to Trent and there were a few people around him. “I squeezed in and just started rubbing his back and told him he was okay. “I knew someone had run down to try and ring an ambulance, but I stayed with Trent.” The jury is expected to begin deliberations tomorrow, Thursday.

Seizing opportunities Former prime minister Tony Abbott toured the Wimmera Cancer Centre before delivering a student leadership forum at Wimmera Lutheran College in Horsham on Friday. Mr Abbott was accompanied by Member for Lowan Emma Kealy, who said it was wonderful to show him what had grown since 2015 when he announced $1-million in Commonwealth funding for the proposed Wimmera oncology unit. “The centre is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when our community fights for something,” she said. Ms Kealy, a first-term Nationals MP in Opposition at the time, fought alongside the community to secure the State Government funding needed to make the project a reality. The funding backed a community campaign, which raised $1-million for what became Wimmera Cancer Centre. Friday’s forum gave student leaders and youth councillors from across western Victoria the opportunity to learn about Mr Abbott’s journey into politics, his time as prime minister, and some of the most difficult decisions and situations he faced in office. “Supporting our next generation of

leaders is one of the best investments we can make in the future of our region,” Ms Kealy said. “Tony spoke candidly about leadership, challenges, and having the courage to stand up for what you believe in, even when it isn’t easy. “I want young people growing up in the Wimmera to know their ideas matter, their leadership matters and there is no limit to what they can achieve.” Mr Abbott encouraged the students to follow their interests and to reflect in the interest of self-improvement. “One of my practices, which my Jesuit teachers were very consistent upon when I was much younger, is this question of this purpose, examining your conscience every night,” he said. “Before you go to sleep, just for a couple of minutes, ask yourself, ‘what’s happened today?’ ‘what could I have done better?’ ‘what did I do well?’. “Make a mental note of that and try to learn from your reflections of the day.” Answering a student’s question about how young people could make a difference in their communities, Mr Abbott said it started with best effort. “If you’re a student, try to be the best

LEADERS: Wimmera Lutheran College Horsham campus captain Evan Hahn, third from left, Tony Abbott, centre, Member for Lowan Emma Kealy and Wimmera Lutheran College executive principal Jason Przibilla with students from various schools at a student leadership forum last week. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS possible student. If you’re in a sports team, try to be the best possible teammate and try to be as good as you can be – not that we’re all going to be superstars,” he said. “Try to be a good friend, be helpful to your siblings, helpful to your parents, be pleasant to your neighbours.

“And when opportunities come up, make the most of them.” Wimmera Lutheran College Horsham campus captain Evan Hahn thanked Mr Abbott for his time. “It’s been great hearing your stories and having you share your experiences – people of all ages can take some-

thing away from this,” he said. “It’s such a privilege to have someone like you talk to all of us and have us have questions that you’re so willing to answer and you’re obviously very passionate about.” – Bronwyn Hastings

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Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Region’s roads ranked among worst

wo sections of the Western Highway – from Ararat to Stawell and Ballarat to Trawalla – were ranked in the worst condition in western Victoria in the RACV’s 2026 My Country Road campaign.

The Midland Highway, Ballarat to Daylesford, was also in the top three in western Victoria. Potholes and deteriorating roads were listed as the biggest road safety concern among the more than 6000 people who participated in the survey. Participants logged 10,048 requests for road improvements over a seven-week period. The campaign short-listed 52 sec-

tions of country highways that RACV and the Australian Automobile Association identified as high-risk, based on Australian Road Assessment Program data, crash history and traffic volumes. Respondents had the opportunity to identify issues and solutions with those road sections, or nominate their own road of concern. The top three most dangerous regional roads identified by respondents were two sections of the Princes Highway, from Colac to Camperdown, and Portland to Port Fairy, and Loddon Valley Highway, from Bendigo to Kerang. The Henty Highway, from Portland

to Hamilton, was among the top-three worst roads in south-western Victoria. RACV will take the results to the State Government for targeted investment in the roads. Head of public policy James Williams said the results send an unmistakable message about where road funding should be directed. “Victorians have told us the state’s crumbling road network is what worries them most,” he said. “Seven in 10 of the concerns raised through this campaign came back to potholes and deteriorating surfaces, and almost three-quarters of the fixes people asked for were as simple as resurfacing the road.

The pothole-ridden stretch of the Western Highway at Trawalla that claimed the life of a Victorian motorcyclist on September 13 was among those considered among the 10 most dangerous roads in the state. Member for Lowan Emma Kealy said the results reinforced why The Nationals had committed $5-billion across four years to repair and rebuild Victoria’s state roads. “Western Victorians don’t need a report to tell us our roads are falling apart, but these results do show just how widespread the problem has become,” Ms Kealy said. “These are the highways we use every day to get to work, take our kids

Parks staff agreement

Education key in flu response More than 500 public land management staff and volunteers have increased their knowledge of H5 bird flu to help strengthen the response across Victoria. Surveillance and sampling training for public land managers has been delivered, involving detecting, reporting and collecting samples from deceased wildlife, particularly marine mammals and seabirds. The training will enable staff and volunteers across more areas of Victoria to contribute to sampling requirements as surveillance efforts increase. Agriculture Victoria delivered information on a range of topics including response, risks and protections, personal protective equipment and sampling procedures during 10 sessions across metropolitan and regional locations, including Horsham. Chief biodiversity officer James Todd said Parks Victoria, Victorian Fisheries Authority, Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, traditional owner groups and other partner agencies took part in the training sessions last month. “Upskilling land managers in locations across the state supports our ability to respond as surveillance requirements increase in the coming months,” he said. “The community can continue to help by avoiding contact with sick or dead wildlife and reporting sightings online. Handling, moving or disturbing birds can increase the risk of disease spread, place additional stress on affected wildlife and potentially impact the recovery of surviving bird populations.” People who see sick or dead birds or wildlife are asked to avoid, record and report via the Agriculture Victoria website or call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

HANDS-ON: Hairdressing students Emelia Martin and Ruby Parish compete in a WorldSkills competition at Federation University Horsham. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Setting a style for national competition A national WorldSkills hairdressing competition took place in the Wimmera for the first time last week, showcasing and judging Federation University students’ skills. Hair, beauty and barbering program manager Celeste Burns said 12 students used both live models and mannequins in the competition, which was also part of their Certificate II salon assistant qualification. “They’ve done a ladies’ shampoo and treatment, a head, neck and shoulder massage, and blow wave,” she said. “Then they’ve done a festival design on a mannequin, to test their skills against others within the region, with the opportunity of competing on a national level in

Adelaide in 2027. It’s a great opportunity to showcase their skills and what they’ve learned throughout their VET delivered to secondary students program.” The morning’s tasks also formed part of the year-10 students’ assessments. Run in the Wimmera on Thursday last week, Ballarat students were assessed on Friday. “Between the two there will be one gold medallist, two silver medallists, and two bronze medallists awarded, with eligible competitors going on to the national competition,” Ms Burns said. “They’ve all done an amazing job; they’ve all been very motivated.” Murtoa College student Ruby Par-

ish views hairdressing as a potential career. “I love the amount of hands-on work we do, all the assessments are fairly simple and everything – colouring, real clients – it’s just like a real salon setting,” she said. “You learn a ton, and it’s a lot of fun.” Ms Parish said she drew inspiration from her childhood for her festival design. “My mum did a similar sort of style on me when I was younger for my primary school athletics with my house colours,” she said. “I just thought of that and when I saw ribbon, I was like, ‘okay, that’s what we’re going to do.” – Bronwyn Hastings

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Wednesday, September 23, 2026

to school and sport, attend medical appointments, move freight and travel to Melbourne.” The findings come days after the Victorian Auditor-General revealed almost half of Victoria’s state roads were now rated poor or very poor. “When more than a quarter of the RACV’s statewide hazardous-road shortlist is concentrated on major routes serving western Victoria, Labor cannot pretend this is just a pothole here or there,” Ms Kealy said. “Country Victorians aren’t asking for another warning sign or another temporary patch. They want their roads properly fixed. Road safety is not optional.”

Parks Victoria has reached in-principal agreement, after fighting for better pay and conditions with 24-hour strikes, park closures and administrative bans for more than 12 months. The offer accepted by Parks Victoria workers includes a three per cent pay rise, a $5000 once-off payment, and a structural wages uplift that will boost base level pay. Parks Victoria employees manage and protect more than four million hectares of parks, reserves, bays and waterways across about 3000 land and marine sites, which attract more than 100 million visits a year. They also fulfil an essential firefighting and emergency response capability, working as an integrated part with other agencies often in some of the most remote regional areas of the state.

Nominations open Hindmarsh Shire Council is calling for nominations for its 2027 Australia Day awards, which recognise outstanding people and events across four categories. Citizen of the year is for people aged 25 years or older on January 26, 2027; young citizen of the year, for people 24 years and younger on the same date; community event of the year, for the 2026 calendar year; and lifetime achievement award. Guidelines and more information on the nomination process can be found at www.hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/ australia-day where nominations can also be made. Hard copy forms can be collected from the council’s customer service centres and libraries. Nominations close on Sunday, December 6.

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Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Police: make it home safely BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

ictoria Police’s Operation Scoreboard aims to have all road users arrive home safely during the AFL grand final long weekend.

From Friday to Monday, police statewide will focus on high-risk behaviours such as speeding, impaired driving, fatigue and distraction. Horsham Acting Senior Sergeant Mitch Gallop said the grand final was an opportunity for people to attend functions, visit friends or celebrate with family. “The message is simple – plan your trip,” he said. “Before heading off, take a few minutes to make sure your vehicle is roadworthy – check your tyres, lights, mirrors and windscreen, and if your vehicle has a known mechanical issue, don’t leave it until grand final weekend to deal with it.” Acting Senior Sergeant Gallop said the posted speed limit was a maximum, not a target. “That means driving at a speed appropriate to the conditions, even when that means travelling below the posted limit,” he said. “Heavy traffic, wet weather, poor visibility, unfamiliar roads and pedestrian activity can all mean you need to slow down further. “Getting to the game or the party a few minutes earlier is never worth putting yourself or another road user at risk.” Acting Senior Sergeant Gallop said the return trip should be organised at the beginning of the event. “One of the easiest ways to avoid a drink-driving decision at the end of

ENFORCERS: Sergeant Dale McIvor, Senior Sergeant Mat Olston and Acting Senior Sergeant Mitch Gallop ahead of Operation Scoreboard, a major statewide road policing and public safety operation throughout the annual AFL grand final long weekend. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER Acting Senior Sergeant Gallop said police would be highly visible across the state in a bid to reduce road trauma and positively influence road user behaviour. “Grand final weekend should be about celebrating, not dealing with a collision, an infringement or an impaired-driving offence,” he said. “The best outcome is simple – enjoy the footy, celebrate responsibly and make it home safely. “A little planning before you leave can make all the difference.”

the night is to make the decision before the first drink,” he said. “People can organise a separate car ride with someone who isn’t drinking, nominate a designated driver, arrange to stay overnight or use a taxi. “Grand final weekend can mean increased traffic, unfamiliar routes, longer journeys and more people travelling after consuming alcohol. “We identify speeding, impaired driving, fatigue, distraction and other high-risk behaviours as significant contributors to serious and fatal collisions.”

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West Wimmera Shire Council is joining a statewide campaign calling for greater investment in rural communities ahead of the November Victorian election. The council is supporting Rural Councils Victoria’s ‘Invest in Rural Victoria’ campaign, which is calling for increased State Government investment in roads, community infrastructure, economic development and housing. It is also calling for broader reforms to make councils more financially sustainable. At the heart of the campaign is a proposed $1-billion Rural and Regional Victoria Productivity and Growth Fund, which would support investment in pools, libraries, sporting facilities and housing infrastructure across rural and regional Victoria. West Wimmera Mayor Tim Meyer said rural communities needed a greater share of State Government investment. “Rural Victorians account for 25 per cent of the population in this state, and we’re currently only getting about 11 per cent of the infrastructure funding out of the State Government,” he said. “We have been short-changed left, right and centre. “Our roads are showing it. Our lack of housing is showing it. The lack of investment is showing it.” Cr Meyer said the proposed $1-billion fund was an important starting point, but more investment was needed. “I am very supportive of this, but I do believe we are selling ourselves a bit short by only asking for $1-billion,” he said. “You’ve got to realise that rural Victoria needs even more. “I think this is only the starting point, but we’ve got to start somewhere.” Community members can add their voice to the campaign at RuralCouncilsVictoria. org.au/invest.

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Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Inspiring stories Caitlin’s cake in the running

ospital system failures, government money promised to boost childcare being siphoned away, migrant worker exploitation and breaking crime coverage of the hunt for a police killer were among the inspiring stories recognised at the Rural Press Club of Victoria’s annual awards.

The winning entries were major stories that could have been published in any national, or international media, but instead they came straight out of regional newsrooms. The Rural Press Club of Victoria’s awards night at Melbourne Town Hall earlier this month not only recognised the best of the best across all platforms in regional Victoria, but highlighted the importance of local media. The winning journalists and photographers provided great insights into how the stories came about, how they covered them and, critically, why they were important to their regional communities. The Warragul and Drouin Gazette claimed the top honours of the night, winning best media outlet. The awards are often dominated by ABC bureaus or major regional daily papers such as the Geelong Advertiser, so, from a longtime newspaper person’s perspective, it was incredible to see a midsize newspaper be recognised in a world that often claims ‘print is dead’. That’s not the case for regional

EDITORIAL By Lauren Henry

communities and we see that firsthand at The Weekly Advertiser. ABC Goulburn Murray reporter Erin Somerville was named Journalist of the Year, recognised by judges for her tenacity, composure under pressure, and for frequently putting regional issues on the national stage. Judges sited Erin’s composure under pressure after footage went viral of her being ejected moments before a One Nation press conference during the Farrer by-election campaign last year – a worrying trend that continues to happen with the political party that is growing at a grass-roots level. She also provided ongoing, quality coverage of the Porepunkah police shootings and the manhunt for Dezi Freeman. Erin’s speech also paid tribute to where her journalism began – her local newspaper, and she recognised the importance that all newspapers across regional Victoria played in their community. The awards received 200 entries across 16 categories from journalists and news photographers across 60 newsrooms in rural and regional Victoria. Among the finalists were several media professionals from the Wimmera. The Weekly Advertiser photog-

rapher Paul Carracher was commended in the photographer of the year award, highly commended for his news photo of the Australian Ballet at Horsham City Oval, and commended for his sports photograph of a classic cricket catch. I also received a commendation in the sports story category for ‘Finals fiasco’ – a story covering issues in last year’s Wimmera league finals series. Other Wimmera journalists named as finalists included the ABC’s Tamara Clark and The Wimmera Mail-Times’ Mark Rabich, while a couple of media professionals who formerly worked in the Wimmera – photographer Kate Healy and journalist Ted O’Connor – also picked up category wins. Also at the awards night, the RPCV also paid tribute to Robin Letts, one of Australia’s longest-serving newspaper editors, who died in August, aged 96. Letts spent nearly eight decades at The Buloke Times at Donald, and was at the helm of the regional publication for 39 years. Letts had been formally recognised by the RPCV in March, receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award at the club’s 60th anniversary celebration to mark an extraordinary legacy to regional media. The region is lucky to have dedicated individuals who go above and beyond their job descriptions to provide communities with a vital service. Kudos to all.

Young Kaniva baker Caitlin Hendy is heading to the Melbourne Show to compete at the Victorian Agricultural Shows Junior Boiled Fruit Cake Competition, representing the Kaniva Show and Wimmera Agricultural Societies Association. From a young age, Caitlin has been entering competitions at the Kaniva Show, encouraged by her mother. Cooking has become one of her favourite hobbies, with chocolate chip cookies among her favourite things to bake. “I love cooking,” Caitlin said. “Mum taught me to bake, and I love cookbooks and looking at recipes online.” Last year was Caitlin’s first time entering the junior boiled fruit cake competition at the Kaniva Show. Rather than choosing just one or two classes, she decided to enter as many competitions as she could. “I decided to enter everything to give everything a go. I wanted to win the most points,” Caitlin said. Her approach paid off. After successfully competing at the Kaniva Show, Caitlin progressed to the Wimmera Agricultural Societies Association, WASA, level, where she was surprised and delighted to take out the win and earn her place at the Melbourne Show. Caitlin credits the feedback she received from the local baking judge at Kaniva with helping her improve her fruit cake before competing at WASA. “It was the first time I’d made the fruit cake and it worked,” she said. Caitlin is now preparing for her first visit to the Melbourne Show, where she will compete against other young bakers from across Victoria. While she is excited about the opportunity, Caitlin is also looking forward to seeing the entries and displays at the Melbourne Show.

NEXT STEP: Caitlin Hendy and her fruit cake are ready for the Royal Melbourne Show, which starts on Friday. Her involvement with the Kaniva Show extends beyond competing – Caitlin also helps with stewarding in the pavilion, where she enjoys helping organise the displays and, in particular, the baking section. At this year’s Kaniva Show, she will be back in the pavilion, looking forward to seeing the displays when they open and walking around the show with friends. Caitlin’s journey began with small entries, including the five things in a lunchbox and fairy bread competitions, and her advice to other young people considering entering their local show is simple: “Try it, you’ll never know how far you go.”

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Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Festival of heart Welcome to the 10th and final article in the celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the Horsham Agricultural Society.

s the Horsham Agricultural Society celebrates 150 years and prepares to welcome visitors to the 148th Grand Annual Horsham Show, it is worth reflecting on one simple question.

Why do agricultural societies still matter? Over the past 150 years, the Horsham Show has changed with the times. Paper entry forms have become online registrations. Cash at the gate has become digital ticketing. The society now hosts weddings, conferences, 150km Feast and Smoke on the Water alongside its traditional agricultural events. Some might ask whether an agricultural society has changed too much. The answer is simple. No. The purpose of the Horsham Agricultural Society remains exactly as it was in 1876: to promote the development of agricultural, pastoral, horticultural, viticultural, stock-raising and industrial pursuits and resources. Everything we do is measured against that purpose. Events like 150km Feast celebrate local producers and connect people with the food grown in our region. Smoke on the Water showcases local produce, meat and wine while supporting regional businesses. This year’s new Paddock to Product feature continues that journey, helping families discover where their food and fibre comes from and the industries that sustain our communities. In many ways, Paddock to Product is not some-

Horsham Ag Society

150 YEARS by Andrea Cross

thing new. It is a modern expression of why agricultural societies were created in the first place, to educate, inspire and encourage innovation in agriculture. That is why our tagline, ‘A Weekend Festival with an Agricultural Heart’, means so much. Visitors will enjoy fireworks, carnival rides, live entertainment, competitions and family activities, but agriculture remains the heart of the Horsham Show. It is why we continue to celebrate livestock, shearing, home produce, cookery, flowers, photography, craft and the people who produce and create them. Today, the Horsham Show is proud to be recognised as Victoria’s sixth most popular agricultural show, but success is measured by more than attendance. It is measured by whether a child leaves understanding where bread begins, how wool becomes clothing or why agriculture remains vital to our future. Agricultural societies have endured because they have adapted while remaining true to their purpose. As the gates open this weekend, join Horsham councillors in The Stables from 3.30pm for a Devonshire tea as we celebrate 150 years of history and the future of agriculture. The Horsham Show remains what it has always been – ‘A weekend Festival with an Agricultural Heart’.

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CO-ORDINATED: Horsham Mayor Brian Klowss, Crs Angela Munn and Dean O’Loughlin, chief executive Gail Gatt and Cr Ian Ross do the Nutbush with purple pompoms, representing Fiona Elsey’s favourite colour. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

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Nutbush for Hope invite Group dance event Nutbush for Hope will raise money for Australia’s only regionally based, community-funded cancer research institution, at this year’s Horsham Show. People are invited to gather at Maydale Reserve at 1pm on Sunday for the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute event, which also marks a decade since Horsham’s first Nutbush world record in 2016. The celebration will begin early, with Channel Seven’s Weekend Sunrise set to host live crosses from Horsham on Sunday morning, putting the event in the national spotlight. Nutbush for Hope event director Vicky DeGeorge said the institute was founded by oncologist and haematologist Professor George Kannourakis about 30 years ago. “George made a promise to one of his patients before she passed at the age of 14,” she said. “It’s the only community-funded cancer institute in Australia, so it does rely on community funds and help from locals.” Ms DeGeorge said people could register to dance via the Horsham Show’s website horsham show.com.au. Wednesday, September 23, 2026

“Or, if you can’t make it to the show, we are asking people to consider making a $10 donation of hope via website nutbushchallenge.gofund raise.com.au,” she said. Professor Kannourakis said the community had been central to the institute’s work since it was established. “Everything the institute has achieved has been made possible by people who believe that important cancer research can and should happen in regional Australia,” Professor Kannourakis said. “Nutbush for Hope captures that community spirit perfectly. You do not need to be a great dancer. You simply need to be willing to have a go and help us turn a much-loved Australian tradition into hope for people affected by cancer.” Professor Kannourakis said communities within the Grampians region experienced rates of bowel cancer incidence and mortality up to 30 per cent higher than the Victorian average. Schools, businesses, sporting clubs, dance groups, emergency services and community organisations are encouraged to practise their moves, film their Nutbush dance and share it online this week, tagging @NutbushforHope.

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Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Hey, feel like treating yourself to lunch today?

COLLABORATION: From left, Emmetts head of customer and technology solutions Tom Emmett, Emmetts chief operating officer Stuart Milliken, Longerenong College general manager Denise McLellan, Skillinvest chief financial officer Jason Maybery, Skillinvest chief executive Darren Webster, Emmetts head of strategy and projects Penny Emmett, Emmetts chief financial officer Jarred Puro and Longerenong College farm manager Guillermo Sierra come together for the new partnership announcement.

United in growing future workforce

ongerenong College students will have new opportunities to put agricultural technology into practice through a strategic partnership with Emmetts.

The collaboration brings together Longerenong College’s agricultural education, commercial farming, precision agriculture and data farm expertise with Emmetts’ leadership in agricultural technology and innovation, providing students with access to the latest equipment, digital farming systems and industry practices. The key focus of the partnership is practical learning, giving students more opportunities to apply their knowledge in a commercial farming environment. In support, Emmetts will provide a John Deere combine harvester and Coolamon chaser bin for use and for demonstration during the college’s annual grain harvest. John Deere Operations Centre will also be integrated across Longerenong College’s 1070-hectare data farm, enhancing the college’s existing connected farming, precision agriculture, and farm data capabilities. The integration will create additional opportunities for students to apply classroom learning in a commercial farming environment and develop skills sought by employers. Emmetts chief operating officer Stuart Milliken said developing people who understand both agriculture and technology was increasingly important for farming businesses and the wider industry. “Technology, data and connectivity are becoming an important part of how farmers operate their businesses. Understanding the technology is one thing; having the opportunity to use it in a real farming environment and see how it supports better decisions is another,” he said. “Longerenong College has a strong history of developing people for Australian agriculture.

“Bringing together their education expertise with our machinery, technology and industry experience gives students the opportunity to build practical skills they can take into the workforce.” Longerenong College general manager Denise McLellan said strong industry connections were important in providing students experience relevant to modern agricultural businesses. “Everything we do at Longerenong College is focused on preparing students for successful careers in agriculture, and partnerships like this play an important role in that journey,” she said. “Access to the latest machinery, advanced technology and industry expertise gives them the opportunity to put their learning into practice and understand how these tools are being used on farms today. “Longerenong College has a strong foundation in commercial farming, precision agriculture, and digital technologies, and we are now very fortunate to have access to state-of-the-art John Deere machinery through our partnership with Emmetts.” The partnership will strengthen connections between industry and future agricultural professionals through precision agriculture and technology demonstrations, industry engagement, student placements, work experience, internships and career pathways. Emmetts is the college’s preferred strategic machinery and precision agriculture partner, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting the future agricultural workforce through practical education, innovation and industry collaboration. Established in 1957, the company has 360 staff across 16 locations in western Victoria and South Australia, supporting broadacre cropping, horticulture and viticulture production, hay and livestock production, almond and olive plantations, orchards, hot houses, research departments, councils and grounds care.

Green waste disposal weekend Horsham Rural City Council is encouraging residents to make the most of a free green waste disposal weekend as part of a community-wide spring clean-up drive. The event, on October 3 and 4, aims to promote safer, more accessible neighbourhoods while helping residents prepare for the fire season. Mayor Brian Klowss said spring was the perfect time to tidy up around the home, prune back vegetation and prepare for the warmer months ahead. “We’re encouraging residents to take advantage of this free disposal opportunity as part of their spring clean-up activities,” he said. The free green waste disposal weekend will run Wednesday, September 23, 2026

at the Horsham, Quantong and Mt Zero transfer stations. Residents can dispose of up to one cubic metre of green waste free of cost, equivalent to a standard 6x4 trailer load. Loads exceeding one-cubic metre will incur charges on the excess volume only. “Well-maintained properties help create safer, more attractive neighbourhoods and support preparation for the fire season,” Cr Klowss said. “This initiative makes it easier for residents to undertake important maintenance while disposing of green waste responsibly.” There is no limit on the number of visits people can make during the weekend.

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Horsham Sports & Community Club 177-181 Baillie St, Horsham | Ph 5382 6262 Visit us online at www.hscc.org.au or www.facebook.com/horshamscc Page 15

TIME

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10.00am-10.00pm 10.00am-10.00pm 10.00am-11.30am 10.00am-5.00pm 10.00am-12.00pm 10.00am-1.00pm 10.00am-2.30pm 10.00am-3.00pm 10.00am-6.00pm

Sideshows, Showbags, Fairy Floss, Food & Coffee Various Traders Fizzics Science of Toys Fantasy Faces Cartoons by Irene Yard Dog Trials Blacksmith Workshops Chris Morant Kids Entertainment First Aid | Parents Room The Furals Woodwork Activities Young Expressions Wimmera LARP Camel Rides Freddy’s Mini Golf Freddy’s Outdoor Maze Cookery, Flowers, Craft, Home Produce, Fruit & Vegetables Cooking Demonstrations with Thermomix 12pm & 2pm Art & Harvey Norman Photography Competitions and Exhibition Frozen Musical & Wimmera Steampunk Exhibitions 150 Years of the Horsham Agricultural Society The AWN & InterGrain Paddock to Product Experience McDonald’s Animal Nursery Level Up Gaming McAlpine Crash Repairs Shearing & Wool Handling Freddy’s Indoor Maze Devonshire Teas

Showgrounds Traders Lane KidZone Stage KidZone The Stables Kennel Club Yards Axis Workshop Roving Maydale Reserve Russell Hall KidZone KidZone Central Hub Lawns River Precinct River Precinct River Precinct The Poultry Shed The Poultry Shed The Cattle Shed The Cattle Shed The Cattle Shed Maydale Pavilion Maydale Pavilion Maydale Pavilion Maydale Pavilion Shearing The Stables The Stables

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The Stables South Paddock Front Gate to River Traders Alley KidZone Stage Central Hub Lawns KidZone Stage Back Paddock Back Paddock Roving The Stables Central Hub Lawns Traders Lane Back Paddock KidZone Stage River Precinct Axis Workshop KidZone Stage The Stables KidZone Stage Central Hub Lawns Traders Lane KidZone Stage Maydale Pavilion Central Hub Lawns

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Renowned authors to visit Wimmera

tawell and St Arnaud libraries will host a trio of renowned authors in October and November.

Crime and psychological-thriller author Michael Robotham, Australian-born and Dublin-based novelist Monica McInerney, and bestselling non-fiction writer Peter FitzSimons will all visit the region as part of a Northern Grampians Shire Council program. Mr Robotham will speak at Stawell Library on Thursday, October 1 at 2pm, while audiences can hear from Ms McInerney at St Arnaud Library on Monday, October 5 at 1pm. Mr FitzSimons, who is returning to the Wimmera following a successful visit to Stawell Library in November last year, will speak at St Arnaud Town Hall on Tuesday, November 10 at 10am. Northern Grampians libraries will run free buses between the towns for Mr Robotham and Ms McInerney’s events. A bus will leave St Arnaud Library at 1pm on October 1, with a bus departing Stawell Library at 12pm on October 5. The Stawell branch is taking expressions of interest for a bus to attend Mr FitzSimons’ talk. Mr Robotham, a two-time Gold Dagger-winning and twice Edgar shortlisted author is currently touring Australia to promote his

new book, ‘Tell Me Something True’. Growing up in small country towns, he spent about 20 years as a journalist before quitting to become a ghostwriter, collaborating with politicians, pop stars, psychologists, adventurers and showbusiness personalities. His first novel, a psychological thriller called The Suspect, caused a bidding war at the London Book Fair in 2002, and his novels have since been translated into 25 languages and won or been shortlisted for numerous awards. Mr Robothan said Tell Me Something True was an ‘astonishing, emotional epic: a mystery, a coming-of-age tale and a love story wrapped into one, set against the simmering tensions of a small Australian town’. Ms McInerney will also showcase her newest novel, ‘When Sullivan Met Lola’, during her stop in the Wimmera. The book brings together characters Lola Quinlan from ‘Alphabet Sisters’ and Sullivan Farrington from ‘The Godmothers’. She described When Sullivan Met Lola as a warm, funny and moving novel about unexpected friendships, lost loves, family secrets and long-hidden lies. Mr FitzSimons is Australia’s bestselling non-fiction writer, having published books including Burke and Wills, Monash’s Mas-

terpiece, Kokoda, Ned Kelly and Gallipoli, as well as biographies of notable Australians including Sir Douglas Mawson, Nancy Wake and Nick Farr-Jones. At St Arnaud he will discuss his latest book – The Race to the Top of the World: The Epic Lives of George Mallory and Edmund Hillary and the Quest to Conquer Everest. The book explores the rivalry and a 30-year gap between the early attempts of George Mallory to climb Mount Everest and the successful 1953 expedition of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. Northern Grampians Mayor Karen Hyslop encouraged the region’s residents to make the most of the opportunity to hear from outstanding authors. “Our library team has put together three wonderful events that I know readers will love,” she said. “We are so lucky to be able to bring authors of this calibre to the Wimmera,” she said. “The events and buses are free of charge, but participants are required to book their spots. I encourage residents and visitors to contact the libraries ASAP to ensure they don’t miss out.” People can call Stawell Library on 5358 1274 or St Arnaud Library on 5495 2188 to RSVP and book a seat on the buses.

JOURNEY: East Grampians Health Service associate nurse unit manager Leesa McInnes with a new ‘Joy Bell’ in the oncology unit.

‘Joy Bell’ celebrates milestones A patient-led initiative at East Grampians Health Service means oncology unit patients can now celebrate treatment milestones by ringing a ‘Joy Bell’. Associate nurse unit manager Leesa McInnes said patients requested the bell be installed, with patients often ringing a bell to signify the end of their treatment in oncology clinics across Australia and worldwide. “It was felt that for some patients where treatment is ongoing, the bell could be used to celebrate any milestone they achieve, such as receiving positive scans, being well for 12 months, as well as ringing the bell at the end of treatment,” she said. Ms McInnes said she searched for the right bell before finding one suitable for the oncology unit. “The bell features a ship’s wheel, which I felt represented the journey that patients are on throughout their treatment,” she said. The bell is installed outside the main treatment area to provide a private area for patients to celebrate their milestones. The unit provides oncology and haema-

tology treatments, and treats public and private patients. Visiting oncologist Craig Carden consults at EGHS on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, while visiting haematologist Pohan Lukito consults on the first, second and third Wednesday of the month. The unit also runs an infusion clinic every second Thursday for people requiring medical infusions for conditions other than cancer. The department is staffed by experienced specialist oncology nurses and a breast care nurse. “We are fortunate to have an oncology unit in Ararat, as it allows people to be treated closer to home and be better supported by their family, friends and community,” Ms McInnes said. “It also removes many of the stresses and costs involved with travelling, accommodation and parking.” People can call inpatient unit and oncology manager Kate Pitcher on 5352 9415 for more information on EGHS’ oncology services.

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ICONIC: Murtoa’s Stick Shed will host art exhibitions and musical performances during the Big Weekend. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Daily & Nightly: Murtoa Silo Art View the stunning bird mural by day and night: Soldiers Ave Time

Event

Pass/Entry Fee

Venue

9am – 1pm

140th A&P Society Agricultural Murtoa Show Horse Event

See pricing below (Retain wrist band for Official Show)

Murtoa Showgrounds

The Stick Shed

W/E Pass OR $12ea | $10conc

1471 Wimmera Hwy

Murtoa Museum Precinct: Old Water Tower, Murtoa

W/E Pass OR $9ea (Please purchase from Water Tower) $15 (general) Children 16 & under – FREE $10 Pensioners $30 Membership

10am – 4pm 12 – 2pm

Railway Station*, Concordia Cottage & Concordia Bell Tower

* Pop-up Mindful Mobile Photomaking Exhibition

3 – 9pm Celebrations until 11pm

9am – 1pm

140th A&P Society Agricultural Official Murtoa Twilight Show  It’s Showtime! Come and celebrate 140 years of show-stopping entertainment in Murtoa!

Murtoa Neighbourhood House Open 

N/Hood House, McDonald St

9am – 1pm Murtoa Show’n’Shine

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McDonald St

9am – 1pm Murtoa Lake Market  Including: A large variety of Market

Free

Lake Marma Recreation Reserve

W/E Pass OR $10ea

Wimmera Hwy

10am – 5pm

Wimmera Inland Freezing Works Historic Engine Rally

10am – 4pm

The Stick Shed Featuring 'The Secret of Happiness' Art W/E Pass OR Exhibition official launch 11:30am, and 'Sounds of the Shed' musical $12ea | $10conc performances during the day (Saturday only)

10am – 4pm 11am – 5.30pm From

 (Engines run: 10.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm)

* Pop-up Mindful Mobile Photomaking Exhibition

W/E Pass OR $9ea (Please purchase from Water Tower)

Follio Property Podcast Murtoa Cup Race Day  

$25 (Race Day)

Big & Brassy Special concert featuring Horsham Rural City Band

Free

Mechanics Hall, Duncan St

Murtoa Museum Precinct: Old Water Tower, Murtoa Railway Station*, Concordia Cottage & Concordia Bell Tower

Country Racing at its best, free kids fun, Fashions on the Field and Live Music

Saturday Night @ The Railway  

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Gold Coin Donation

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Murtoa Book Fair Come along to the Murtoa Hall to find a fun

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Mechanics Hall, Duncan St

10am – 4pm

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W/E Pass OR $10ea

Wimmera Hwy

10am – 4pm

The Stick Shed Featuring 'The Secret of Happiness'

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The Emblem signature. Various signature configurations and color options allow the designer maximum flexibility for various communication goals.

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Murtoa Racecourse

6pm>

THE IDENTITY

The Lions Clubs emblem has been designed to function as part of a flexible and cohesive visual system. When combined with the nameplate, it will be referred to as a

Reduced entry with W/E Pass

Comyn St

and Guests

Including: DJ entertainment

Four colour stations positioned around Lake Marma. Get colourful! bargain – books, games, puzzles and more! Cash sales only

 (Engines run: 10.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm) Art Exhibition

11am – Ecumenical Service 2026  12pm Theme: Season of Creation – Living Waters

The only acceptable emblem is pictured on this page. It may not be reconstructed or altered in any way. It must be reproduced from reproduction-quality art or from highresolution digital files.

1471 Wimmera Hwy

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The Lions Clubs emblem has been refreshed to represent the contemporary and evolving character of the organization today while celebrating its history and international renown. Subtle updates have modernized the emblem and greatly improved its legibility and reproducibility.

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It’s showtime at Murtoa W

hat a way to begin Murtoa’s Big Weekend with a huge celebration of the 140th Agricultural and Pastoral Society’s Agricultural Murtoa Show – this year a twilight event on Friday, October 2. The Murtoa Twilight Show kicks off an epic three-day line-up of events for all ages to enjoy during Murtoa’s Big Weekend, during the last weekend of the spring school holidays from Friday, October 2 to Sunday, October 4. Celebrating 140 years of show enjoyment in Murtoa, the show features brilliant entertainment including Australia’s wildest motorcycle stunt show, Mad Style Moto, where a lucky person in the crowd can win $500 cash. With free entry for children 16 years and under, and many free activities on offer at the show, the event is an affordable family day out with many adventures to explore. Special guests of the show are Liz Harfull, author of the Blue Ribbon Cookbook series, who is the show’s main speaker and available for meet and greet. Anika Molesworth will read her new children’s book ‘The Sunlight Dragon’ with copies to be won, and will provide a short talk on farming, resilience and rural life. Many more features include market stalls, pavilion displays, a fire performance, and lighting installations, including the unveiling of the 2026 Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal-funded laser projector, explosive fireworks and live music with the McIntyre Brothers on Murtoa’s Community Stage to finish the twilight show in Murtoa. Murtoa will continue to provide show-stopping entertainment with the ever-successful Follio Property Podcast Murtoa Cup Race Day on Saturday, October 3, which attracts large crowds annually with quality experiences. The Murtoa Cup offers everything that

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country racing is renowned for and opens the Spring Racing Carnival in the Wimmera. The Stick Shed will officially launch ‘The Secret of Happiness’ Art Exhibition by Julie Kent and Molly Galpin on Saturday, October 3, at 11.30am, to be exhibited until Sunday, October 18. Musical performances ‘Sounds of the Shed’ will be heard on the Saturday of Murtoa’s Big Weekend also. The Murtoa Mechanics Hall will be in its glory on the afternoon of Saturday, October 3 with a special free afternoon matinée, Big & Brassy, featuring the Horsham Rural City Brass Band and guests from 2.30pm. The event is presented by Murtoa Lions. People can admire the displays of the creative community project, The (Big!) Bird Project, where the community of all ages were involved in making, drawing, photographing and observing the birdlife in Murtoa and surrounding district. The results will be displayed in the Murtoa Mechanics Hall windows and inside the Water Tower Museum. Other special features of Murtoa’s Big Weekend 2026 include a spectacular Lake Market, Murtoa Show’n’Shine, Murtoa Book Fair and Lake Colour Run. The huge event lineup also importantly celebrates the many unique historical features of Murtoa, including the national heritage-listed Stick Shed, Murtoa Museum Precinct and Wimmera Inland Freezing Works Historical Engine Rally, over two days. All attractions offer unforgettable experiences for both residents of the region, and visitors from further afield. For more information and specific dates and times of each event feature, see the quick reference guide in the accompanying advertisement or visit www.murtoa bigweekend.com.au. Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Councils unite for water rights N

orthern Grampians Shire Council has joined the Pyrenees and Central Goldfields shires to advocate for a Southern Wimmera and Northeast Pyrenees Water Supply Project that aims to improve water security across the region.

The trio of councils will call for the state and federal governments to commit $5-million to support detailed design and planning work for the project, which aims to provide fit-for-purpose water infrastructure across a 350,000-hectare region. Northern Grampians Shire Council officials said the region faced ongoing and significant water-security challenges, particularly during drought conditions. A 2026 preliminary business case found the project would deliver economic, environmental and social benefits to nine towns and about 2500 rural landholders and businesses on an opt-in basis. The business case estimated a net present benefit of $64.3-million and a benefit-cost ratio of 1.47-1. It identified benefits including: improved water security for farmers; reduced drought impacts; protection of agricultural jobs; a healthier natural environment; cultural water outcomes for traditional-owner sites; increased economic investment and regional growth; and emergency water points for firefighting. The business case also outlined social and mental-health benefits through water access for recreation reserves, green spaces and farm gardens. The construction cost of the project is estimated at about $160-million. Northern Grampians Mayor Karen Hyslop said progressing the project to a shovel-ready stage was a priority. “The business case has clearly demonstrated the value of this project. We are now seeking $5-million to complete the detailed design and planning work needed to ensure the project is ready for construction once funding becomes available,” she said.

Pyrenees Shire Mayor Damian Ferrari said the project would deliver lasting benefits for communities across the region. “Reliable water is fundamental to the future of our communities, farms and businesses,” he said. “The Southern Wimmera and Northeast Pyrenees Water Supply Project is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to strengthen water security, support economic growth and help our region become more resilient to drought and climate challenges.” Central Goldfields Mayor Ben Green said the project would unlock opportunities for future investment and growth. “Water is life, and water security underpins everything from agricultural productivity to community wellbeing. This project would provide confidence for existing businesses to expand and create opportunities for new investment across our region,” he said. Farmers from the region, including Stuart Mill’s Luke Batters and Natte Yallock’s Matt Cain, who is also the Natte Yallock Landcare Group treasurer and Natte Yallock CFA second lieutenant, said they supported the concept. “Like many in our region, we've had to contend with unreliable water supplies for years,” Mr Batters said. “Having access to a secure, fit-for-purpose water source would give us greater confidence to invest in our businesses, plan for the future and better withstand the impacts of drought.” Mr Cain said the project had the potential to transform the region. “Water is the foundation of agriculture, and agriculture is the backbone of our local economy. Investing in the Southern Wimmera and Northeast Pyrenees Water Supply Project is an investment in farmers, communities and the future prosperity of our region,” he said. People can find more information about the project, including a map of the proposed network area, online at gwmwater. org.au/building-and-development/projects/ current-projects/southern-wimmera-north east-pyrenees-water-supply-project.

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Refreshed Elmhurst Hotel re-opens The Elmhurst Hotel is open and trading once again after undertaking improvements supported by Ararat Rural City Council’s Façade Improvement Grant Program. The council grant contributed towards a fresh exterior paint job, helping give the building a renewed street presence. Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the works helped retain an important local gathering place for the Elmhurst community. “Small communities need places where people can come together, and the Elmhurst Hotel has long been an important part of life in the town,” he said. “Council is pleased to have supported the refurbishment of the hotel’s exterior through a façade grant, helping the building present well and contributing to the appeal of the township. Wednesday, September 23, 2026

“Backing local businesses is one practical way council can support our smaller communities. “When a venue such as the Elmhurst Hotel is open and trading, it provides a place for residents to connect, brings visitors into town, and helps build confidence in the local economy. “I wish the team at the Elmhurst Hotel every success as they begin this new chapter. “I hope local residents, surrounding communities and visitors get behind the venue and make the most of what it has to offer.” The council’s façade improvement grant program supports eligible local businesses and property owners to improve the appearance of commercial buildings, strengthen township streetscapes and encourage investment in local centres.

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2026 National Police Remembrance Day is commemorated on Tuesday 29th September 2026 and honours the memory of Police Officers Police who haveRemembrance died in the line of duty in is National Day Australia in service between September 2025 th commemoratedandonSeptember Tuesday 29 September 2026.

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2026 and honours the memory of Police are invited to the died Horsham Police Remembrance Officers You who have in the line Day of duty in Service to be held at St Michael and John’s Catholic Church, Australia in service September 2025 Corner of McLachlanbetween and Urquhart Streets, Horsham and September 2026. Tuesday 29th September 2026- Commencing at 10:00am

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You are invited to the Horsham Police Remembrance Day Service toAcbe ng Iheld nspectoat r CSt ameMichael ron Ross of tand he PolJohn’s ice WimmCatholic era Division Church, extends an invita on to you to a end the Remembrance Corner of McLachlan and Urquhart Streets, Horsham Service and morning tea therea er.

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Wednesday, September 23, 2025

Ararat youth festival

new youth event aimed at bringing together young people from across the Ararat region is set to make its debut next month.

Presented by Ararat Rural City Council’s YEAH Crew, the Youth Ignite 2026 event offers a jam-packed program featuring live-music performances, interactive lifeskill level-up areas, wildlife encounters, food trucks and direct access to support and career advice from community partners. The first 149 attendees at the October 17 event at Ararat’s Alexandra Oval will receive a free show bag filled with sweet treats from Flossy’s and Poppy’s, YEAH Crew merch and more. Attendees can enjoy live music by local group Band In Progress and get up close with animals through Tyron’s Wildlife Encounters. People can also connect with emergency

“We’re really excited to launch Youth Ignite 2026, a fantastic new event built to bring our region’s young people together”

– Bob Sanders

services, community groups and education providers at interactive stalls designed to help young people. Food trucks including Spud Stick, Uncle Jum’s Baked Potatoes, Grampians Ezy Eats and Hippie Whippy Ice Cream will accept cash and EFTPOS. Mayor Bob Sanders said free buses would operate to and from surrounding townships to help people attend the event. “We’re really excited to launch Youth Ignite 2026, a fantastic new event built to bring our region’s young people together,” he said. “Our YEAH Crew are a brilliant group of

local youth, and they’ve worked incredibly hard to pull this event together. “It’s a chance for youth to hang out, enjoy the live music and local food trucks, and pick up some new skills or check out career pathways with education providers and emergency services. “It’s a free event so I encourage everyone to get their tickets, get involved, and enjoy a great day out.” Youth Ignite 2026 is a smoking, vaping, e-cigarette, drug and alcohol-free event. Professional crowd control and community-safety partners will be on site throughout the day. Youth Ignite 2026 will be at Alexandra Oval, Ararat, from 2pm to 7pm on October 17, with registration required for free entry. To register for the event or for more information including bus timetable details, people can visit www.ararat.vic.gov.au/ events.

Tourism investment Silo art in Rainbow and upgrades to Willaura’s Mount William Station are among a trio of recently completed tourism developments supported by the State Government. In a first for the Silo Art Trail, the Rainbow silo features both large-scale external artwork and internal art. An internal viewing platform with stair and lift access connects to an exterior tower and lookout to help visitors enjoy the attraction. New landscaping, parking, signage and visitor information are intended to encourage visitors to spend more time in the region. Tourism Minister Natalie Suleyman said the new silo art was forecasted to attract an additional 7200 visitors each year and inject an extra $650,000 into the local economy. In Willaura, upgrades to the Bluestone Stables function centre at Mount William Station increased the venue’s capacity to host up to 190 guests, strengthening the region’s appeal as a premium destination for events, weddings and boutique visitor experiences. The renovation included six custom sliding doors, new bathrooms including an accessible option and upgraded flooring in the tack room to improve usability for guests. Ms Suleyman said the two projects, along with a third in Anglesea, collectively created nearly 50 jobs during construction and were expected to create 13 ongoing full-time roles while supporting additional indirect employment. “These new tourism infrastructure projects are creating local jobs, backing local businesses and giving people even more reasons to visit and stay longer in regional Victoria,” she said.

Swap meet and show ’n shine Little Desert Rodders, Rockers and Collectors will host a swap meet and show ’n shine at Drung Golf Club next month. Raising money for ‘Healthy Minds’, site fees are $20, with show ’n shine entry fees $10. Four prizes will be awarded in the show ’n shine. From 9am on Saturday, October 17, the event will also feature a barbecue and food vans. People can phone club president Ian Day on 0448 851 670 for more information.

Pomonal Native Flower Show Presented by Australian Plants Society Grampians Group

Featuring Grevilleas

GRATEFUL: Pictured with new chairs at East Grampians Health Service’s Garden View Court aged-care home are, back, from left, Friends of Gum San’s Ian Carman, Daune Mettrop and Joy Gunstone with EGHS director of support services Scott Wilson; and front, Garden View Court manager Natalie Wohlers and Friends of Gum San president Yvonne Robinson, right, with residents Rosalie Patterson and Brenda Dent.

Residents making most of donation Residents at East Grampians Health Service’s, EGHS, aged-care home Garden View Court are enjoying new lounge chairs thanks to a donation from Friends of Gum San. Friends of Gum San donated $5280 towards four new lounge chairs at the facility. President Yvonne Robinson said Friends of Gum San donated to a charity every year and always looked for somewhere they felt they could make a difference. “Each year we see if we can find a different need,” she said.

Garden View Court recently underwent a refurbishment, with new dining chairs and tables, lounge chairs and carpet throughout, as well as a fresh coat of paint through all common areas and new artwork and sideboards in the facility. Works are also underway to gradually refurbish residents’ rooms throughout the facility, with each resident’s door being painted a different colour and matched with a ‘memory box’ beside the door that acts as a way-finder helping residents find their way to their rooms. Garden View Court manager Natalie

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Wohlers, on behalf of residents and staff, thanked Friends of Gum San for their generous donation. “This has enabled us to purchase com-

Adults $7 · Children Free Tickets at the door

Pomonal Community Hall 3360 Ararat-Halls Gap Rd, Pomonal VIC

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fortable new chairs for our residents,” she said. “Garden View Court is looking amazing with the refurbishment and this new furniture blends beautifully and creates a warm and homely atmosphere in the lounge area

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Barbara Midgley

SPOT THE 5 DIFFERENCES: Ear missing, crease on forehead missing, hair changed, chin crease missing, dot missing from tie Yesterday’s Solution

1 9

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5 2 9 3 6 8 4 7 1

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9 8 3 6 5 1 2 4 7

Quick Workout

2 4 7 9 8 3 5 1 6

Fill in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and 3x3 block.

S S T A T I C M A R C H D E B A R T A C I T A V M A S T E R N O U N S R E C E D E R A Y O N T I R E E C L A T R I S E R P E R U S E T S C A R E E D R E G S T F N I B B L E E N S U R E S R D E B U T R A F A S T R T R E A T S S O L A R R I F L E T O T S T A R O T E G R E T S S T O I C S T U D I O E E R E V E L M A I M S A R I E S S E L L E R S

Sudoku

No. 8488

712 201128 Quick Crossword Crossword

3 7 1 4 2 9 6 8 5

4 6 2 8 1 5 7 9 3

264 451 123 3 1 5 645 5 1 6 654423346 123 325512 1 4

125 523 314 4 63 326 625 152 45 6 6 43 352 3 2 1 146 61 4 SOLUTION

12 50 8

47 40

4 5

1 4 3

2 3

Distributed by Knight Features

12 3 5 2 4

Fit the numbers 1-6 once into every hexagon so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers are the same. No number is repeated in any single hexagon. 712

201128

39 35

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22 15

23 16

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Page 22

Back by demand

am Trucks Australia will reintroduce V8 petrol power to its line-up next month with the arrival of the new Ram 2500 Warlock, marking the first time in a decade the heavy duty pick-up has been offered with a HEMI engine.

Priced from $157,950 plus on-road costs, the MY26 Ram 2500 Warlock is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.4-litre HEMI V8 producing 306kW and 582Nm, paired with an eightspeed automatic transmission and dual-range four-wheel drive. The model will sit alongside the 6.7-litre inline six-cylinder Cummins diesel-powered Ram 2500 and 3500 Laramie variants, broadening the heavy duty range while reviving a petrol V8 option last seen in Australian-delivered Ram products in late 2024. The final Australian remanufactured HEMI-powered Ram was a 5.7-litre 1500 Limited, which rolled off Ram Trucks Australia’s Melbourne production line almost two years ago. Production of the new 6.4-litre Warlock commenced at the same Melbourne remanufacturing facility earli-

er this month, ahead of first customer deliveries from October. Ram Trucks Australia general manager Jeff Barber said customer demand had been instrumental in bringing the HEMI V8 back. “Australian customers told us loud and clear they wanted the HEMI V8 to come back, and the Warlock was our first opportunity to do so,” he said. “We had also been exploring the option of an off-road inspired Ram 2500 heavy duty model for some time, so the Warlock was the perfect opportunity to bring the HEMI V8 back and deliver customers a broader choice. “The Cummins diesel is still very much a part of the Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy duty line-up, but we know there are also customers who want the HEMI V8.” The Warlock is positioned as a more rugged take on the Ram heavy duty formula, gaining Bilstein off-road dampers, 20-inch alloy wheels, 28560 all-terrain tyres, black wheelarch flares, black side steps, and black front and rear bumpers. Black headlight surrounds, a black front fascia, black mirror scalps and

ON TRACK: Off-road focused Ram 2500 Warlock revives HEMI V8 power for Australian heavy duty buyers. Warlock decals complete the exterior treatment. Underneath, the Warlock retains coil-spring rear suspension and is equipped with a 3.73:1 final-drive ratio, compared with 3.42:1 for diesel variants. Ram says the new model reflects a broader shift in the Australian full-

size pick-up market towards heavy duty models as buyers increasingly seek greater towing and payload capability. “We have seen a market shift towards heavy duty in recent years, as customers get even more serious and more demanding with what they want from a truck – whether it’s for work or

play,” Mr Barber said. “So, when we were assessing the suitability of the Warlock for our market, we decided to go all in and bring the HEMI V8 back with it.” First Australian customer deliveries of the Ram 2500 Warlock HEMI V8 are due to commence next month. – Matt Brogan

TOYOTA: SPRING SPECIALS

Horsham Toyota HiLux & Selected RAV4

Lots Of Variants In-Stock Now & Ready For Immediate Delivery

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81 Stawell Road, Horsham Ph: 03 5381 6111 Mark Riedl Dealer Principal 0419 201 097

Joel Kelly General Sales Manager 0421 821 512

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Sam Rintoule Business Manager 0413 137 493

Jason Taylor Sales Consultant 0408 537 184

Brent Hollier Sales Consultant 0427 374 241

Barbara Folkes Administrator/Sales 0438 718 509

Sam Leith Sales Consultant 0499 709 557

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LMCT 10984

Horsham Toyota horshamtoyota.com.au Page 23

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www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Nissan Patrol sizes up for Australia N

issan has detailed substantial improvements to passenger accommodation and cargo capacity for its all-new Y63-series Patrol.

Due to reach Australian customers early next year, the new-generation Patrol will offer greater room across all three seating rows, as well as a more flexible second-row arrangement and easier third-row access. Nissan says the changes are intended to make its flagship four-wheel drive more suitable for Australian families, particularly those using all three rows or towing heavy trailers, caravans and boats. The Y63-series Patrol offers 577 litres of cargo space behind the third row – 110 litres more than the outgoing Y62-series – increasing to 1594 litres with the third row folded and 2749 litres with the second and third rows stowed. Those figures represent improvements of 181 litres and 127 litres respectively over the Y62-series, while the folded rear seats now form a nearflat load floor. Nissan Oceania managing director Steve Milette said the improvements extended beyond the new Patrol’s already announced drivetrain, chassis and technology upgrades. “The Patrol has always been valued by Australian families for its space, comfort and versatility,” he said.

BOOST: Maximum braked towing capacity increases from the Y62’s 3500kg to 3700kg across the Y63 range. “With the all-new model, we’ve taken those attributes to another level. “From significantly increased thirdrow space and greater second-row legroom to more usable cargo capacity and 3700kg braked towing capability across the range, the all-new Patrol has been engineered to be even more capable of meeting the demands of Australian families.” Interior packaging changes extend throughout the cabin, with Nissan introducing what it calls Zero Gravity seat construction for front and sec-

ond-row occupants. Using high-damping foam, the seats are claimed to reduce vibrations experienced on rough and corrugated roads – an obvious consideration for a model expected to spend considerable time touring regional and remote Australia. Front occupants also gain additional hip, shoulder and legroom, while the driver sits higher than before. Massage functionality is fitted to the driver’s seat in the Ti-L+ and extends to both front seats in flagship Ti-L Reserve specification.

Further back, a new sliding second-row seat gives owners greater flexibility between second and thirdrow accommodation. With the second row in its rearmost position, Nissan claims up to 250mm more leg space than in the outgoing Y62, while hip and shoulder room have also increased. Importantly for families using all eight seats, Nissan has paid particular attention to the third row. The Y62’s tumble-forward second-row mechanism is replaced by

a new tilt-and-glide arrangement designed to provide third-row access even when a child restraint remains fitted to the second row. Once aboard, third-row occupants gain 75mm of additional hip room, 66mm more knee room and as much as 253mm extra legroom when the second-row seat is moved to its forward-most position. Outboard third-row passengers also gain an additional 84mm of heel space, assisted by a flatter rear floor. Nissan says the changes are intended to make the third row genuinely suitable for three passengers rather than an occasional-use proposition. Australian order books for the Y63-series Patrol opened in August, with the six-grade range starting at $98,990 plus on-road costs for the Patrol Ti and extending through Ti+, Ti-L and Ti-L+ to the off-road-focused PRO-4X and flagship Ti-L Reserve. Pricing is set at $98,990 for Ti, $109,480 for Ti+, $122,690 for TiL, $134,690 for Ti-L+, $137,590 for PRO-4X and $145,990 for Ti-L Reserve, all before on-road costs. The entry price is $2450 higher than the outgoing Y62 Ti, while the Y63 also introduces several additional variants and brings the PRO-4X badge to the Australian Patrol line-up for the first time. – Matt Brogan

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1. 2. 3.

orn on this day in 1984, was which English rapper, B known for ‘Bonkers’ and ‘Dance Wiv Me’? Where was the first modern Olympic Games held? What was Netflix’s most watched series in 2025?

4. What was the first music video to reach one billion views on YouTube?

Which planet in our solar system has the shortest day?

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: September 21, 2006 – Horsham model helicopter pilot Rolf Hedt had a last-minute practice session before the weekend’s Horsham Helicopter Hoe Down at Longerenong Agricultural College. The Wimmera Model Aircraft Association event was set to feature crowd-pleasing displays from four of Australia’s top pilots as well as other heli flyers from across the region. Rolf said the event would deliver spectacular high-flying action that needed to be seen to be believed.

W ho was the first person to win a Nobel prize in two different scientific fields?

W hich country has won the most FIFA world cup titles in men’s soccer?

10 years ago: September 21, 2016

Regional fuel prices were to come under the scrutiny of a State Parliamentary Inquiry, which was welcomed by Member for Lowan Emma Kealy, to address the discrepancy between regional and metropolitan prices. Prices for diesel at the time included: Ararat, 114.9; Ballarat, 119.4; Colac, 121.2; Horsham, 118.5; and Melbourne, 114.5. The inquiry examined prices of unleaded, diesel and LPG, and the methodology behind the pricing.

Capital cities of Vienna in Austria, Bratislava in Slovakia, and Budapest in Hungary, all lie along what river? H ow many colours will you find in a regular bag of M&Ms?

10. The Goo Goo Dolls wrote ‘Iris’ for what Nicholas Cage movie?

11. H ow many minutes are in a full day? 12. W ho was the famous nurse known as the founder of

Five years ago: September 22, 2021

modern nursing?

Murtoa College community was set to enjoy a new-look, better-equipped premises after the school received a $505,000 funding windfall. Principal Tony Goodwin said the money would go towards developing a walkway between the administration building and back of the school, which was a high-traffic area. He said the project was the next phase of a landscape masterplan, developed in 2020.

13. W hat cheese is traditionally made with the milk from a

One year ago: September 24, 2025

Answers: 1. Dizzee Rascal. 2. Athens, Greece, in 1896. 3. KPop Demon Hunters. 4. Gangnam Style by PSY, in 2012. 5. Jupiter, with nine hours, 55 minutes and 30 seconds. 6. Marie Curie. 7. Brazil with five. 8. Danube. 9. Six. 10. City of Angels. 11. 1440. 12. Florence Nightingale. 13. Pule. 14. Jimi Hendrix.

Horsham Fire Brigade was gearing up to celebrate 150 years of service to its community. Volunteer John Davies headed a group that was compiling the brigade’s history, which was set to be released in a book. The brigade was also planning a members’ dinner and a community open day to recognise its milestone.

donkey?

14. D ying on this day in 1970 at the age of 27, was which American rock guitarist, famous for song ‘Purple Haze’?

FIVE-DAY forecast Thursday

26°

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5382 5607 Local Gardening Services with More – My Care Crew Expands Centre for Participation’s social enterprise, My Care Crew, is expanding its gardening and outdoor maintenance services across Horsham, supported by newly branded trailers and growing local demand. My Care Crew delivers reliable lawn mowing, edging, pruning and garden cleanups — combining professional service with meaningful local impact. CEO Robert Millar said the enterprise reflects Centre for Participation’s commitment to strengthening communities through participation. “My Care Crew provides local gardening services with more — creating supported employment pathways and practical skill development opportunities for people in our region,” Mr Millar said. As a Centre for Participation social enterprise, My Care Crew reinvests in inclusive employment, training and community participation. Services operate across Horsham, with travel available to surrounding areas by arrangement. Rates start from $77 per hour (GST inclusive), plus tip fees where applicable. For bookings or enquiries, contact 5382 5607. *New Homes *Renovations *Extensions *Patch-ups *Suspended Ceilings *Rendering *Foam Cladding *Ornate Cornices * All jobs Plaster & Rendering Qualified Tradesmen, Quality Work

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Page 27

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Page 28

Hopper Electrics

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DIRECTORY

We want you! Based on unprecedented reader and listener demand, we encourage regional tradebased businesses to become part of The Weekly Advertiserʼs Local Trade Directory. The Local Trade Directory offers the only true multi-media platform combining print, radio and online services for businesses to ʻspread the wordʼ in across the Wimmera, Mallee and Grampians.

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new home BuildS

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EDENHOPE

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Call Steve: 53 822 993

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Phone: 5382 1351 12 month: $45 • 6 month: $47 • 13 week: $50 (all prices ex. GST) Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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Phone: 03 5382 3823 Email: info@wadesgp.com.au

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Contact Travis 0419 707 196 No obligation quote

Travel charges apply outside of Horsham

5379 3827

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passenger, commercial & Trojan golf cart batteries Contact Horsham Autoglass today to organise a prompt battery replacement for your vehicle.

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Our mobile service unit comes to you! DEALER

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MORROWS

horsham@laserelectrical.com.au horsham.laserelectrical.com.au

140 Golf Course Rd, Horsham Ph: 5382 5002 (Soil Yard) 5382 6230 (Nursery)

Ideal for anyone moving house or businesses moving stock.

Morrow Motor Group - 5382 6163

T.V. C��NEC��S H��n� �r��m� �i�� ...

• Digital TV • New house pre-wires • Phone point installations • Pay TV to all TV’s from one box

C�� M�� 0419 836 106

tvconnections1@bigpond.com Like us on Facebook d

licence no. CDB-U 75417

GALLAGHERS V&S SERVICES • INTERIOR • DUSTLESS SANDING • ACRYLIC TEXTURE COATING • EXTERIOR

0427 970 345

All automotive maintenance and servicing, air-conditioning, roadworthy, brakes and exhaust requirements. 45 DIMBOOLA ROAD, HORSHAM

Phone: 03 5382 2622

AUTH No: AU00880

• New homes • Sheds • Concreting Registered Building Practitioner

Matt Liston - 0417 544 614 liston.builders@gmail.com

Professionals at: Cleaning: -

Supplying wood burning heater & stove parts ARARAT & STAWELL DISTRICT

Windows Commerical Industrial Builders Domestic Offices Building Sites

Sally: 0409 523 917 • sally@gallaghers.com.au

www.gallaghers.com.au

18-20 Pynsent Street Horsham Vic 3400 Phone: 03 5382 3823 Email: info@wadesgp.com.au facebook.com/wadeshorsham Licence # PIC 316600 AU29407 REC 31566

Since 1985 Wednesday, September 23, 2026

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Sales • Service • Installation

www.wadesgp.com.au

Page 29

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death notices

BENNETT (nee Heﬀernan), Wilma Lorraine

HOGAN, Barry

Passed away peacefully on September 19, 2026 aged 92 years. Dearly loved and devoted wife to Ron for 66 years. Forever In My Heart

Passed away peacefully on September 19, 2026 aged 87 years. Beloved husband of Margot. Loving father and father in law of David & Avril; Ann-Marie & Grant; Ben & Ras. Cherished Grandad to Indira and Isaac; Hannah, Lucy and Phoebe; Marley and Inika. Loved by his twin sister Therese.

death notices

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Your classifieds team

Newspaper classifieds continue to be a trusted marketing tool and The Weekly Advertiser classified staff continue to give you the best customer service. Contact us today via online, phone or in person at our office.

The shed’s gone quiet now the cutters rest, The wool press stands with We will miss you so much Passed away tragically on nothing left to pack. September 11, 2026 Old James Rohde has shorn aged 23 years. his final run, and won’t be coming back. Dearly cherished and loved MACFIE, daughter to Jason, Leona and He was a ringer when the Barbara Lynette their partners Julie and Tony. tally counted, Passed away on September 20, Wide in the blow, a powerful Loved sister to Kade and 2026 aged 87 years. man. Vaishali, and stepsister to He’d lock a sheep and still Jess, Chris, Anthony and Dearly loved mother and keep tearing through – as Shaniyah. mother in law of Peter; fast as shearers can. Graeme & Debbie; Roz & Adored partner to Ned. Daryl; and Stephen. Adored Out on the station when the Granddaughter to Rex & Nan and Nanny Barb to all of muster rolled, Marie (dec) Bergen, and her grandchildren and great you’d hear his laugh above Shirley Jackson. grandchildren. Cherished the Evo’s grind. sister and sister in law to Ken Sadly and deeply missed by A good mate in the quarters & Barbara Davies. all her extended family after dark, and friends. The sort you hoped you’d Now At Peace find. You had the gift of the Zee The comb’s gone still. The Forever 23 last lamb’s oﬀ the board. MULLER, The dust has settled where Paulette Mary he used to stand. FOLEY (nee Omant), Passed away on September 16, Australia’s lost another gunMarie 2026 aged 78 years. shearer – a proper working Passed away peacefully at Mother of Alfred. man. Natimuk Nursing Home Loved wife of Ernie (dec). So raise a quiet beer when aged 98 years. Resting Peacefully the sun drops low Loved wife of Jack (William and think of Rohde, where Catchment Management John, dec). the old hands wait. Mother of Patrick and Graduate Out on the board the old NETHERWAY, mother-in-law of Kathy. shearer stands – he’s through Lance Robert OAM Wimmera CMA Much loved grandmother of the final gate. Passed away on September 14, Horsham, Victoria Cary. Rest easy, mate 2026 aged 85 years. She will be missed2byyear familyfixed term, full-time Salary: $65,192 pa Dearly loved husband of 63 and the many friends she years tofor Sandra. made through her life. Are you looking a career development pathway? Loving father and father-inDetails also at https://hdf. law to Kevin (dec); Brendan Have you considered Natural Resource com.au/home#funeralManagement? & Felicity; Jacqui & Thomas; announcements Dean Nicole. a recent raduate Wimmera CMA is&seeking No live stream available in science, natural management or Adored resource Pa to Ami, Bree and Ella; Stella and Lewis; Horsham & District omas, Sarah and Laura workplace. Funeralsand modern Th (dec). Dylan & Amity Hartwich The successful candidate will be joining

BERGEN, Zanaiya Jewell

death notices

Vale Lance Netherway OAM

~ For James Rohde ~

But he was oursresource and we 5382 1149 a lead agency for natural

loved him so training and management and undertake professional development, with guidance

Vale Lance The position will develop skills andNetherway OAM

Wimmera CMA Board and staﬀ acknowledge the passing of knowledge in regional catchment management. Lance Netherway OAM and oﬀer our sympathies to Sanny, Brendan, Jacqui, Dean and the extended Netherway family. The Wimmera CMA provides a workplace

The GWMWater Board, management and staﬀ are deeply saddened by the passing of Lance Netherway. Lance was a respected leader in the water industry, serving on the predecessor Wimmera Mallee Water Board as Chairman from 2001 to 2004, after being Deputy Chairman from 1992 to 2001. Lance will be remembered for his wisdom, leadership, integrity, kindness and unwavering commitment to the Grampians, Wimmera and Mallee communities, including his drive for the Wimmera Mallee and Northern Mallee pipelines. He was a true gentleman and will be greatly missed. We extend our sincere condolences to Sanny, Dean, Brendan and their families. Rest in peace

Funeral Notices BENNETT, Wilma Lorraine

The Funeral of Wilma Lorraine Bennett will leave St John’s Anglican Church, Horsham on Wednesday, 30 September 2026 after a service commencing at 10am for the Horsham Lawn Cemetery.

accommodation

Funeral Notices

FOLEY (nee Omant), Marie

NETHERWAY, Lance Robert OAM

Funeral prayers for Mrs Marie Foley will be oﬀered at Ss. Michael &John’s Catholic Church, Horsham, Thursday, September 24, 2026 commencing at 1.30pm. Interment will follow at Horsham Cemetery.

An informal gathering to celebrate the life of Lance Robert Netherway OAM will take place at the Quantong Recreation Reserve on Thursday, September 24, 2026 commencing at 1.30pm. Privately interred.

Amity & Dylan Hartwich

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

5382 1149

Ph 5381 1444 NFDA Member

HANNA, Val

Memorial Notices

An informal gathering to celebrate the life of Val Hanna will take place at the Horsham RSL next Monday, October 5, 2026 between 2-4pm. Privately interred.

WEBB, Cyril

One long year since you left us. We will love and remember you always. Love from Florence, Keith, Jenny, Peter, Harrison, Elliot and Charlie.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Ph 5381 1444 NFDA Member

accommodation

HOGAN, Barry Requiem Mass will be oﬀered for the Repose of the Soul of Barry Hogan at Ss Michael & John’s Catholic Church, Horsham on Tuesday, 29 September 2026 commencing at 1.30pm. At the conclusion of Mass the cortege will leave for the Horsham Lawn Cemetery.

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

Prime beachfront locations, $1200 $1500 for 7 nights, limited availability, conditions apply Ph 03 5568 2899 to book

Animals & Accessories 2 male Jack Russell's, 8wks old vaccinated vet checked microchipped $1200, microchip no 953010008081317, 953010008081295 Ph 0423182267 Birds for sale, princess parrots and bourkes, all colours, call for prices Ph 0408535515 Stawell

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

Bristlenose catfish, great tank cleaners $5ea until sold out Ph 0474159010 after 6.30pm Budgies, assorted colours $10 each Ph 0417533579

Funeral Directors Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Ph 5381 1444

Ph 5381 1444 NFDA Member

NFDA Member

BERGEN, Zanaiya Jewell

The Funeral of Zanaiya Jewell Bergen will take place at the Horsham Church of Christ next Friday, 2 October 2026 commencing at 1.30pm and will be followed by private cremation. The service may also be viewed online at youtube. com/live/zugqKFizSR0

Val

Page 30

ABN 16 064 882 042

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Lance was a primary figure in leading land-conservation HANNA policy for thethe region and a driving respects and promotes diversity of force to recognise the need (nee Wentwisle), for healthyinclusion land and water management. our community and supports and

Heall. was the inaugural Chair of the newly-formed Wimmera participation for Passed away on September Catchment Authority from 1997-2000. Visit 20, 2026 aged 88 years.www.wcma.vic.gov.au to download a Lance’s commitment and dedication to land, water and natural Dearly loved wife position of Ron. description and key selection resources was matched by a strong belief in the importance of criteria. Loving mother and motherregional communities having a voice in decisions that aﬀect close 10.00am Monday in-law to MaxineApplications & Peter; their future. June 30 2025. Lance will be remembered with appreciation and respect Geoﬀ & Melissa; Paul (dec). Adored Granny to Sam & for his leadership and passion for our region. Yulanda; Caitlin & Olivia. He has left a lasting legacy. Great Granny to Oscar and Phone: 03 5382 1544 Evelyn. 24 Darlot St Horsham Forever in our hearts www.wcma.vic.gov.au

DEADLINE 10am Tuesday before publication, this includes payment and advertisement details.

Run It Till You Sell It advertisements are subject to review after six months with a lowcost fee to continue. Only applicable for one item per advertisement. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement. It is the responsibility of the advertiser to notify the publisher of any errors on the first day of publication. Every care is taken to prevent errors and accidental omissions but no financial responsibility can be accepted for loss resulting from such an error or omission.

Phone 5382 1351 email: horsham@aceradio.com.au online: www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Death Notices

PAYMENT: Mastercard or Visa card payments via phone or online. Alternatively, cash or eftpos available at 2 Stawell Road, Horsham.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Ph 5381 1444 NFDA Member

MACFIE, Barbara Lynette Please see next edition for funeral details.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Ph 5381 1444 NFDA Member MULLER, Paulette Mary

The funeral of Paulette Mary Muller will take place at the graveside, Kaniva Lawn Cemetery next Thursday, October 1, 2026 commencing at 1pm. The service may also be viewed online at https://livingitlive. com.au/paulette-muller

There’s so many things to think of, you don’t even know where to start... I’m so glad I chose someone who cared to organise it. Pre-arrange your wishes with Trevor Bysouth & Daughter of

5381 1444 (All Hours) www.wimmerafunerals. com.au

Our professional staff will ensure your family is provided with the highest level of care available.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter

Ph 5381 1444 NFDA Member www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

Ph: 5382 1149 | Email: admin@hdf.com.au Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Animals & Accessories Gorgeous Cavoodle puppies, 2 Ruby Red boys, 2 Black girls and 1 black boy, 8 weeks old, looking for their forever home, located in Stawell, MC 978142001434621, 978142001434645, 978142001434290, 978142001434795, 978142001434633 $1800 per puppy Ph 0407665755

Pure bred Australian Kelpie, 'Bailey', beautiful natured working dog, great working dog lines, from Stuart Park Kelpies, very faithful, basic training, been around sheep but not working yet, needs training, DOB 27/7/2025, not desexed, selling due to cutting back sheep numbers, M/C 972274001675727 $1000 Ph 0419399684

caravans

Jayco Journey Tourer, pop-top 17.55.8 2023 model, duel axle, full ensuite, solar, large fridge, hot and cold water, double bed, awning, ac, excellent condition $45,000 Ph 0466237445

2009 Jayco Starcraft 20ft, ensuite, A/C, stove, TV, HWS, reg D39115D, $25,000 Ph 0417054706

2012 Jayco Starcraft 22 ft, rarely used, ensuit, laundry etc, photos available, $28,000 ono call paul ph0438564345

2014 Supreme Executive Caravan, 21' 6", one owner, full ensuite, club lounge dining, full oven, hot plates, fridge, A/C, diesel heater, 2 solar panels, always shedded, excellent condition, regretful sale due to health, inspection welcome $47,000 Ph 0428133100

2023 Jayco Cross Trak, 4.2m 14', Hybrid pop-top, off road suspension, solar, TV, external shower, diesel heater, generator, air con, 2 fridges, tare 1370, tows behind most vehicles, as new condition $38,000 Ph 0421511754

for sale

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

Meat Mincer, 4 inch throat, portable on stand, stainless tray, electric motor $300 Ph 0428944143

Seed wheat scepter 3 tonne grated and pickled, round bale carrier, cattle crush, 3 hydraulic cylinders 18"x2.5" Ph 0407911884

140 bottles of cellared Red Wine, some up to 20 years matured, $2500 Ph 0427581825

New hand crocheted knee rugs, approx 90cm square, all colours $20 Ph 0402506858

Jayco Silverline 21' 6" 2015, always shedded, slide out queen bed, ensuite, washing machine, many extras, excellent condition, $48,000 Ph 0408442497

Jayco Starcraft 2013, 21', one owner, very little use, as new, always shedded, many added extras $37,000 Ph 0427 909 230

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

Nissan Forklift, very reliable $8500 Ph 0429821541

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

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

ARC Garden Fencing, 20 panels, $1000 Ph 0459027575 Stawell

REDUCED Vintage Skyline 60's Caravan, registered, useable condition, 10ft, full annex, $2800 Ph 0419778181 Jeparit

Reduced, J.B Dreamline 21'6-2014, always shedded, sirocco fans, diesel heater, greywater tank, fan force oven, washing machine, full length custom made annexe, great storage, excellent condition $47,000 Ph 0439826442

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

$1200

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

Two antique rattan hand weaved wicker rocking chairs $600 for the both together Ph 0428504301 REDUCED Aluminium Ute Tray, electric/hydraulic tipper, ram overhauled $1800 Ph 0428944462

Avery 6 inch Chrome and Wood, Avery 7 inch Chrome and Wood, Mitchell 3390, Ocean City 165 USA, Penn Longreach 68 USA, Mitchell Garcia 386, Penn Senator Game, Dam Quick 22A Ph 53824316, 0419115930 Bicycles, Geeko boys bike 12" $10, Mens Trek mountain bike $50, Ladies Avanti Discovery 27 Speed as new $300, Unisex Trek 'Legal' E-Bike Bosch Electrics, hydraulic disc brakes, as new, cost $4k + selling for $2900 Ph 0427617677 Horsham

Cool room drop-in unit, 1 horsepower, 10amp plug in, digital control, other sizes available $1850 Ph 0417101120

REDUCED Kirby Avalir 100th Anniversary, excellent condition, clean and functions perfectly, includes filter bags, brand new home care system, all attachments (some brand new) $400 Ph 0429679481

Ride on Mower, 1978 Toro Groundmaster 72 rebuilt/reconditioned, reconditioned R4 engine renault petrol, new seals & bearings in deck, radiator cleaned, new belts, blades, brake cables, air cleaner element, seat, king pins redone & repainted Ph 0428501109 Second hand black steel star posts, $3 each Ph 0428944143

Harley Davidson Fat Boy 2021, as new condition, black, sissy bar, black rack and bag, cruise control, twin pipes, spare set of tyres, immaculate condition $30,000 Ph 0421511754

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

MOBILITY AIDS

Afikim S4 Mobility Scooter, hard top canopy, rain sides, new battery, 9/10 condition, paid $10,000, sell $5000 Ph 0400609150

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Masport Chipper and Spreader, twin blades, never been used, $1000 Ph 0456393984

Motor Vehicles $3000 - $10,000 Ford 2005 XR6, BA Falcon, roadworthy, 2 month rego, 1HI7QS $4990 Ph 0422444750

garage sales

4 Winnifred Street, Stawell

marine

Shed equipment, tools, engines etc. and household goods – CASH ONLY

Slasher Leith Rotary Mower Orange model, 18ft, 1000rpm gear box, very good condition $38,500 plus gst Ph 0428894258

motor vehicle accessories

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

Goldacres Sprayer, 2300L, 58ft, foam marker, $2500 Ph 0419778181 Jeparit

Jayco 2012 18' 6" Expanda, 2 double beds, double single bunk, toilet ,shower, low kilometres, reserve cycle air cond, fridge, microwave & more $32,000 Ph 0408504076

Yamaha XT600 1985, very good condition, new tyres, low kms, can be registered $5000 Ph 0439377524

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

8am to 4.30pm

Large amount split cane 3pce fly rods, 2pc split cane rods, 1pc solid split cane rods with reels excellent condition, D.A.M Quicksilver fly 9.5ft with reel, custom built 8ft6" fishing rod with reel, lots of fishing flys Ph 53824316

1980 Benz, 4 Cyl, petrol, RWC, BLS666 $13,500 Ph 0408144139 10am-7pm

Proton Jumbuck Ute 2011, unregistered 24,224ks $5000 ph0437600095 PLIC97PNRAB016095

Four arm walker, $150 ph0437600095

Holden Eight Transistor Car Radio, His Masters Voice Press Buton Car Radio, Astor Truck Radio on valves, Ph 53824316 or 0419115930

2/1997 Yamaha TRX 850 all factory original 9600kms, 10 month rego, meets requirements for club plates, YB-122 $8,000 Ph or text 0417561843 leave a message, St. Arnaud, all offers will be considered

household items

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3

Krone 8' Cut Disc Mower $9,000, Tonniti Hydraulic lift & fold 12 wheel plus 2 splitter hay rake $8,000, New Holland 658 baler nett & twine $14,000, all in excellent condition, Ph 0429861729

Motor Vehicles $10,000 - $20,000

2015 Mazda CX3 MAXX Sport, Selling due to upsizing,very reliable car and great on fuel economy, petrol engine, auto, full service history, rego, brand new tyres, keyless start, no dints in body work, 2 keys, sat nav, bluetooth connectability + CD player, phone charging points, never been in any accidents and clear tile, recently had car polished and detailed, 227,000kms $13,500 Ph 0407046864 Horsham

Black 6 piece dining setting in good condition $200, large wooden rimmed mirror $85, a number of pictures and painting ranging from $10-$30, open to offers Ph 0409312294 Ararat

Filtrite RC 4500 robotic pool cleaner, cleans walls, 18m power cable $200 Ph 0427852270 Full lift electric chair, pure leather, $350 Ph 0478254195

motorcycles

White outdoor lawn mower, needs starter, and Girntz tilter $600 Ph 0427828420

Ride on Mower 42" cut Zero Turn Cub Cadet, 2.5 hrs, 5L of oil and spare blades $8990 Ph Evan to inspect 0427740155

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

Sectorcare walker 8" wheels with cane holder brand only used once $100 Ph 0353 583206

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

Stromberg Carlson Radio, ex cond Ph 53824316 or 0419115930

REDUCED Beko dryer $200, entertainment unit $200, both in excellent condition Ph Jenny 53836242 or 0429029215

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

Compass Caravan 200/14 19'6", a/c, toilet/shower, inverter, solar panel, 4 burner stove/oven $20,500 ono Ph 0476601705

Scooter, Reef Bikes, Fold up, Near new $950 Ono Ph 0447660707

Motor Vehicles $3000 - $10,000

Parsnip seed, professionally cleaned $200 per kg Ph Pat 0427822455

8x4 trailer, deep sides, big wheels, $1000 Ph 0478254195

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

bin

Oaten Balansa and Clover hay rolls, feed test available $110 each Ph 0400603022

60+ 78 inch Gramophone records, country and western Ph 0402506858

REDUCED 2018 Dingo Ultimate Camper, heavy duty top of the line off-road trailer including boat rack, fully enclosed annexe including ensuite, lots of storage, built-in instant gas hot water to sink and shower, dual AGM batteries and built-in inverter and charger, innerspring mattress and ability to make up second double bed, two new off-road tyres, VGC, Y76535 $15,500ono Ph 0407360212

Sherwell PTO 0428857312

MOBILITY AIDS

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

2x 50T Ackland silos, buyer to remove, Murtoa $4000 for both Ph 0429335706

caravans 2006 Jayco Dove Outback Camper, rarely used, always garaged, I.S. mattress, annexe, flys, good condition $14,000 Ph 0428535646

for sale

2 beds, 1 single folds into chair, 1 double folds into couch, steel frame, includes mattresses and cover $180 ono. ph 0447660707

REDUCED Eclectus parrots aviary birds only, 2 year olds and a pair ready to breed, three pairs $900 per pair Ph or text 0492486058 Dimboola REDUCED Golden Retriever X Foxhound puppies, dob 12 July, black/ white markings tricolour, source# MB310162, microchip# 985141011652/003/001/002/000 651/999/998 $500 Ph 0429486058 Dimboola

for sale

PROMOTE YOUR

HERE!

Only $52.25 Includes a notice like this PLUS mentions on the radio!

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

The Weekly Advertiser welcomes your advertising. We are required strictly by law to include specific information on some items when publishing your advertisement. A snapshot of your obligations are as follows: BOATS All advertisements for boats must include: • Hull number or registration number of the boat If a trailer is included with the boat, the advertisement must also include: • Registration number or chassis number of the trailer.

2018 Holden Equinox, 4 brand new tyres, one elderly owner, excellent condition, towbar fitted and never used, new battery, will come with RWC, 55,000kms $19,500 ono Ph 0428573808

Motor Vehicles over $20,000 2014 Toyota Prado, GX 4x4, RWC, reg til Oct, 1BJ6BL $24,000 Ph 0409954335 Kia Seltos 2020, sport auto 2wd, SUV, 1 owner, excellent condition, warranty and reg to may 2027, steel-gray with black interior, no accidents or damage, RWC supplied, RIT4GT, 39,100kms $23,750 Ph 0418541300

4WD Trailer 6x4 with cage. Registered till may 2027 No longer in use. $500 ono. ph 0407 251 965

motor vehicles The Weekly Advertiser welcomes your advertising. We are required strictly by law to include specific information on some items when publishing your advertisement. A snapshot of your obligations are as follows: ROAD VEHICLES All advertisements for road vehicles must include a price, as well as: • A registration number, if registered • Either an engine number, VIN or chassis number if the vehicle is not registered.

Page 31

PERSONALS Wanted, 49+ year old lady for serious relationship with 49 year old True Romantic Gentleman from

wanted

Public Notices

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

Dimboola Natimuk Lutheran Parish

“I NEVER THOUGHT I’D BEFINAL PUBLIC AFL GRAND HOLIDAY TRADING HOMELESS.”

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Sunday, September 27

Horsham, interests are reading, music, occasionally going out for dinner then

wanted to buy

the movies or watching movies at home, fishing and camping, walking and swimming Ph 0491230835

30 or 40 tonne vertical/horizontal wood splitter in good condition Ph 0429018879 Ararat

Trades & Services

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

Chev truck rim 1925 - 1929 Ph 0427506552

Male Masseur Open Mon-Sat

0455 187 842 Keyte's mowing service, lawn slashing

0429309491 or 53826461 Rose

Pruning,

many

years

experience, call to book, can travel Ph Max 0417824141

We will re-open on Monday, September 28, 2026 from 8.30am.

Gear box from a grain auger Ph 0421791492 Stawell

Horsham

block

HOURS:

More people are now Thefacing Weeklyhomelessness Advertiser, 3WM and MIXX FM ofﬁce will be closed on than ever before.25, 2026. Friday, September

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

A GREAT MASSAGE

mowing,

Goroke 10am LR Natimuk 10am LR Vectis 10am LR Dimboola 10am HC

Looking for a 2 bedroom small country home Ph 0411801581

If you have queries, please phone the Visit any salvationarmy.org.au station on (03) 5382 1351

or scan the QR code

LP Records, prefer 60's, 70's, 80's and rabbit traps Ph 0400017344 Old bottles, marble bottles ginger, beer bottles, torpedo bottles, demijohns Ph 0448943498

MONDAY, OCTOBER 12 6PM

AT THE HORSHAM SPORTS & COMMUNITY CLUB RSVP OR MORE INFORMATION: TOMH@WRSA.ORG.AU OR 0429 530 536

www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

NEWSPAPER

WALKERS WANTED

Wanted to buy, Amateur radio, CB Radio and related accessories, from single items to bulk estate sales, $$$ Cash Paid $$$ Please Ph 0407163900

We’re looking for people to deliver

want to buy a photo?

Public Notices

professionally printed in two standard sizes: | 8” x 10” - $15 EACH 6” x 8” - $10 EACH

Contact our friendly reception staff today on 5382 1351 or call into 2 Stawell Road, Horsham Email: horsham@aceradio.com.au

horsham@ontgroup.com.au

IN HORSHAM & DIMBOOLA

Earn some extra cash on Wednesdays with flexible runs available! TO FIND OUT MORE CONTACT SHANNON: email - horsham.distribution@gmail.com or phone/text - 0438 064 269

situation vacant

Situations Vacant

PART-TIME – MATERNITY LEAVE CONTRACT

TRAFFIC COORDINATOR Administration position 3WM, MIXX FM and The Weekly Advertiser is seeking a reliable and self-motivated person to join our administration team.

horsham@ontgroup.com.au

Are you looking for a challenging administration role in a fun, team environment? Do you enjoy routine and have good attention to detail? This might be the next administration job for you!

www.ontgroup.com.au

The Traffic Coordinator’s purpose is to accurately schedule commercial airtime and radio station promotions using the company’s online computerised advertising traffic control system. You will work closely with our sales marketing team and programming team to ensure that the radio station offers an efficient service for our radio clients and agencies.

DUE TO COMPANY GROWTH WE HAVE MULTIPLE VACANCIES FOR HC & MC DRIVERS

This role will also include some receptionist duties such as phone answering and general customer service.

Christian Devotion

Ideally the successful applicant should possess the following attributes:

September 23 Everyone has opinions, but now we hear everyone’s, whether we want to or not. Social Media is built on opinions; it doesn’t matter if those speaking aren’t involved in the situation; we can be an armchair expert. One of the problems with opinions, especially when based on emotion or misunderstanding, is that it often becomes a judgement. We are great at criticising each other or telling people what our opinion is, what we think they should do. It can be relentless and overwhelming and we all know about those who take their own life because of others’ opinions. One day Religious Leaders brought to Jesus a woman caught in adultery and made her stand before the group gathered. They wanted Jesus to condemn her and her to be punished, which would be death by stoning at that time. Rather, Jesus said, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” They all left, one by one, until only Jesus was left with the woman.

• Willingness to learn and use relevant in-house trafﬁc management software • Excellent administration, communication and organisational skills • Attention to detail • Ability to analyse and interpret data • Ability to work independently but also as part of a team • Self-motivated, ability to prioritise work and show problem solving skills • Ability to work effectively under pressure, react quickly and meet deadlines This position is ideal for someone who has previous administration skills including accounts and someone with adequate IT skills. To apply or for more information please phone Olivia 5382 1351 or email olenehan@aceradio.com.au ACE Radio Broadcasters is an equal-opportunity employer.

Jesus asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.” Without a word he challenged those who judged, and with words and love, freed the woman to a new life. That’s Jesus! Susan Pearse - Southern Mallee Cooperative Parish

Page 32

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Place your situation vacant advertisement in – the largest circulating newspaper in the Wimmera, southern Mallee and Grampians. Telephone (03) 5382 1351 Email horshamreception@ team.aceradio.com.au

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

situations vacant

tenders

Ph. 0476 125 232

FULL-TIME POSITION AVAILABLE

TRUCK DRIVER / GENERAL LABOURER to deliver recycling services in our region.

HR & FORKLIFT LICENCES REQUIRED If you are reliable, prepared to work as part of a team and are committed to providing good customer service, please apply.

SEND YOUR RESUME TO:

Join our team Join a supportive, forward-thinking team and help shape water and wastewater services for our communities.

Current vacancies Environmental Sustainability Officer (Part time) Weʼre seeking a person passionate about sustainability and making a positive difference to our organisation and community. In this role, you'll provide environmental and planning advice that supports projects across GWMWater while helping drive our sustainability goals. communities.

wastebusters1@bigpond.com

Contact Mick 0409 340 981

Goolum Goolums Kindergarten 1 POSITION Barrp-iny Wirrindity-anak Activities & Events (To build children)

is seeking Co-ordinator expressions of interest for Early Childhood Teachers F/T and P/T and Diploma Qualified Educators, DO YOU HAVEplanned for its new kindergarten to open January 2027. • Demonstrated experience in community health promotion andWirrindityevents All positions at Barrp-iny coordination. anak Kindergarten require: • • Strong attention Currentcomputer VIT (Early skills, Childhood) or to detail. • Highly developedDiploma planning, • Current Early Childhood communication and time management qualifi cations skills. • First-Aid, CPR, Asthma and • A qualifi strongcations team ethic. Anaphylaxis • Child Safety training- Mandatory OFFER ReportingWE Certifi cate Attractive Remuneration

Salary packaging is available and all Salary Packaging positionsFlexible will beHours paid as per Additional Leave the VECTEAPaid Award. For further information and position Get in touch for more descriptions, please emaildetails: michelle. ceo@goolumgoolum.org.au cameron@goolumgoolum.org.au. Closing date:17 April 2026

Truck Drivers / Plant Operators

Apply now

Inroads Pty Ltd has grown into one of the largest bituminous sealing companies in Victoria and South Australia with a proven track record of specialty work throughout Western Victoria and South Australia and is part of VSA Group.

Visit gwmwater.org.au/careers or scan the QR code to apply or sign up to job alerts.

We are seeking Truck Drivers and Plant Operators to join our Spray Sealing team during peak summer season (September 2026-May 2027). Our depot is based in Horsham and requires frequent travel across Victoria and South Australia.

As an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, we are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. For confidential support throughout the application process, please contact our People, Culture and Legal division on 1300 659 961 to ensure a fair and inclusive experience. GWMWater acknowledges Traditional Owners as the custodians of the lands and waters across our region and is committed to Aboriginal self-determination and culturally safe engagement

Need help spreading the word? Call The Weekly Advertiser on 03 5382 1351 or email weeklyadvertiser@team.aceradio.com.au

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

situations vacant

Part Time Driver/Wool Presser AWN Wimmera are seeking a casual or permanent part-time Driver/Wool Presser to join the team out of the Horsham Wool Store AWN are a privately owned Australian business committed to delivering the highest level of service to our clients across wool, livestock and property

Applicants should ideally possess the following attributes Have a current car license with a minimum of a medium rigid truck classification preferred Be physically fit and able to manoeuvre large wool bales Have a base knowledge of agriculture and more specifically, wool production A current forklift license is preferred but not essential The ability to identify differing wool types is preferred

Applications should be sent to mphelan@awn.net accompanied by a cover letter and resume, closing Friday the 9th October For further information please contact Wimmera Area Manager Michael Phelan 0427 987 001 01608T-2408

In this role, you'll help deliver important projects, lead sustainability initiatives and provide expert environmental advice across GWMWater.

GWMWater is committed to achieving ‘zero harmʼ across all operations. We prioritise a safe working environment, ensuring that everyone returns home safely every day.

View assets and make a bid via the WWHS website: Bidding closes Friday 30 October.

Love protecting the environment and making a real difference?

Applications close: Friday 9 October

West Wimmera Health Service has a range of assets currently for sale, including a tri-bike, cement pavers, kitchen range hood, relocatable building, shipping container, and more.

www.wwhs.net.au/assetdisposal

Supportive Work Environment

Environmental and Heritage Team Leader (Fixed term 18 months)

DISPOSAL OF WWHS ASSETS

Applicants will need to possess the following attributes: Truck Drivers and Plant Operators • HR Licence (minimum) or preferred HC Licence • Construction Induction White Card • Current Traffic Control / Management Certificate (desired) • Willingness to travel and work away from Horsham • Safety is second nature to how you work • Able to work as an effective crew member and part of a team • Be able to travel away from home for up to 2 weeks at a time. This role requires flexible individuals to meet company requirements; some weekend work will be required. An attractive casual hourly rate with overtime and allowances is offered for the right applicant. Successful applicants will be required to undergo prior to commencement: • Pre-employment medical assessment • Drug and Alcohol screening test • Company Induction For further information contact on 5382 4406, resume should be forwarded to either of the following: • Email: reception@inroads.com.au and hr@vsagroup.com.au • Post: P.O. Box 708, Horsham Vic 3402 • In person: 8 Bracken Street, Horsham Vic 3400

The Weekly Advertiser

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JOIN OUR TEAM

Join the Hindmarsh team and contribute to our beautiful Shire. We are currently accepting applications for the following positions:

People and Culture Officer Parental Leave Position

Fixed Term (12 months) Part Time (22 hours per week) Salary commencing at $40.23 per hour Applications close 12 noon on Wednesday 30 September 2026.

Team Leader Works - East

Based at Jeparit Permanent Full Time (9-day fortnight) Salary commencing at $82,093 per annum Applications close 12 noon on Wednesday 7 October 2026.

Cleaner - Nhill Holiday Park

Permanent Part Time (30 hours a fortnight) Salary commencing at $31.23 per hour Applications close 12 noon on Wednesday 7 October 2026. Scan the QR code for details about these roles and how to apply, or visit our website:

www.hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/ work-in-council Page 33

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Juniors ready to battle H

tunities for our community, building confidence in our region and demonstrating that Horsham has the experience and community spirit to attract events of state significance,” he said. “Securing events like this is important for our region because they create opportunities for local business, support jobs and showcase Horsham as a vibrant place to live, work and visit.” Cr Todd Wilson said the event would leave a lasting impression on the region’s young athletes. “This tournament gives our young people the chance to see some of the state’s best junior volleyball talent up close, right here in Horsham. That kind of exposure can be the spark that gets a kid off the sidelines and involved into a sporting club,” he said. Robertson said Volleyball Horsham had an army of volunteers ready to make the weekend special for all who participate, which is a much needed necessity due to the event being split over two venues. “Volleyball Victoria has given Volleyball Horsham a massive tick of approval in its ability to host these championships, amidst growing pressure from other regional venues who want to get their hands on this prestigious event,” she said. “To that end we can’t thank them enough for trusting us to deliver the championships, but we know we could do a much better job if we had the ability to host such an event under

BY DAVID BERRY

orsham will be the centre of the junior country volleyball universe this weekend when 26 teams participate in the junior country championships.

Teams will travel from Sunraysia, Shepparton, Latrobe Valley, South Gippsland, Ballarat, Geelong, Macedon Ranges and Warrnambool to compete at under 19, 17 and 15 level for boys and girls. Volleyball Horsham will be well represented with six teams going into battle, with all teams expected to figure deep into medal matches on Sunday. Volleyball Horsham vice-president Laelah Robertson said the event had grown since it was revamped three years ago. “In 2024 we used the basketball stadium only, while in 2025 we included one court at St Brigid’s College. This year we have both courts running at each stadium and we have had to start games on Thursday night to fit them all in – that is a huge tick for the event,” she said. Horsham Mayor Brian Klowss said the championships had attracted significant support from the council in another huge tick of approval for the event. “Hosting major events is about more than filling venues for the weekend. It’s about creating oppor-

one roof. “We hope council will see just how good this event will be and get started on a much needed multi-purpose venue for this municipality. “It is way overdue.” Robertson said the championships kick-off tomorrow night at 6pm at Horsham Basketball Stadium, when Volleyball Horsham’s two under-15 girls’ teams play their first game, followed at 7.30pm by the two under-17 boys’ teams. “We encourage everyone to get down and support our future stars as there is no charge for entry,” she said. An opening ceremony will be at 8am on Friday, where all participants will march onto court one showcasing their team banners, while Rhianna Williams will perform the National Anthem. Team captains Joel Brilliant and Serena Johns will take the athletes’ oath, Jasper Ponseca and Sophie Quick the referees’ oath and Oscar Jackman and Molly Carter the coaches’ oath. Cr Dean O’Loughlin will then speak on behalf of council, before declaring the championships underway, with the first games at 9am. The championships continue from 8am on Saturday with medal matches scheduled from 9.30am on Sunday, with the closing ceremony around 4pm.

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and a regular-season MVP award in 2013 as a member of the Nunawading Spectres, and was a seven-time All-SEABL Team selection. Retiring from playing after the 2019 season, McDonald became the the Western Australian Institute of Sport’s first women’s basketball head coach in August 2022. He was appointed head coach of the Australian under-23 men’s three-onthree basketball team to compete at this month’s world championships in Wuhan, China, where the team, nicknamed the Gangarrus, won bronze.

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After an impressive playing career, former Horsham basketballer Shane McDonald’s move to coaching has yielded even greater success, with a bronze medal at this month’s FIBA 3x3 Under-23 World Cup in China. McDonald, 41, grew up in Horsham, playing for the Horsham Hornets before earning a spot on the Nova Southeastern Sharks in US men’s college basketball. After returning to Australia he forged a career in the NBL and the former SEABL, where he earned grand final MVP honours in 2011

each

played its first game against the Geelong Falcons at Moe on Monday evening. Belcher kicked a goal but the Rebels were soundly defeated, losing 15.11 (101) to 3.6 (24). Sulic was also named in the division-one team but will not play due to illness. Clarke, George and Williams all played in the Rebels’ boys division-two side, also against the Geelong Falcons on Monday. Clarke kicked a goal but the result was similar to that of the division-one side, with the Falcons, 16.14 (110) easily accounting for the Rebels, 9.6 (60). Round two matches are today, with the Rebels’ division-two boys playing Murray Bushrangers in Moe at noon, followed by a division-one clash between the same teams at 2pm.

Coach McDonald secures bronze

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Some of the Wimmera’s top young footballers are in Gippsland this week as they represent the Greater Western Victoria Rebels at the V/Line Cup. The V/Line Cup is an annual tournament bringing together the best under-15 footballers from across country Victoria, and forms part of a talent pathway into the Talent league under-16 and under-18 squads. Wimmera players selected for the Rebels’ extended boys squad were: Nate Bacon and Hylton Penfold, Horsham Saints; Ryder Belcher, Ararat; Liam Clarke, Dimboola; Evan George, Warrack Eagles; Charlie Williams, Southern Mallee Thunder; and Chavi Sulic, formerly Horsham, now Ballarat. Belcher and Penfold earned selection in the Rebels’ division-one team, which

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OPEN: From left, joint highest goal-scorer Todd Alexander, Yanac Tigers, goalkeeper of the year Henry Gill, Nhill Rangers, best-and-fairest and joint highest goal-scorer Brad Alexander, Yanac Tigers, and runner-up bestand-fairest, Ben Williamson, Warrack Hoops. Pictures: SIMON KING

WOMEN: Best-and-fairest Erin Alexander, Yanac, and runner-up Imogen Dickinson, Kaniva.

Association crowns best A

BY SIMON KING

fter three enthralling grand finals decided the best teams of the Wimmera Hockey Association 2026 season, leading individual performances were acknowledged at the association’s awards presentation evening.

For some recipients, this was not their first acceptance speech, but new names also appeared on several trophies, and all six clubs were represented among the winners.

Open

Yanac Tigers’ Bradley Alexander won his fourth Aitken-Findlay Trophy as the open best-and-fairest player, with 43 votes, ahead of runner-up Warrack Hoops’ Ben Williamson, who polled 40 votes. The next best were Nhill Rangers’ pair Lachlan Mills and Jason Reichelt, with 28 votes each. Alexander received his award from Iain Aitken, one of two former Wimmera players the trophy was named after. Aitken, who played for Horsham, and former Yanac and Nhill player Grant Findlay were both influential in forming the men’s – now open – competition in the mid-1980s. Two players scored 11 goals to lead the goalscoring, with Bradley Alexander winning the trophy for the second time, and Todd Alexander receiving it

Big Blue Round Twine

for a fourth time. The top-three in the goalkeeper of the year were separated by six points, with Nhill’s Henry Gill polling 58 votes to win the award for the second time, two ahead of Horsham Hurricanes’ Lars Simmons, and Kaniva Cobras’ Thomas Ady just two points back. Yanac’s Alister Dickinson came next with 30 votes.

Women

Yanac’s Erin Alexander won the Noreen Wheaton award for the best-andfairest player in the women’s competition for a record-extending ninth time. Although she finished 28 votes ahead of the field with 75, the next four were only separated by 10 points. Kaniva’s Imogen Dickinson came runner-up with 47 votes, leading a pack of handy players including former winners Dimboola’s Jennie Hauselberger and Brooke McMaster and last year’s under-16 winner, Warracknabeal’s Ellie Williamson. Alexander was also the division’s leading goal-scorer with 21, one ahead of Hauselberger. In a busy season playing in goal for both the Revengers in the under-16 competition and Warracknabeal in the women’s, Madisson Bentley was named women’s goalkeeper of the year with two more votes than Nhill Thunderbirds’ Erin Wallace. Madisson also came third in the equivalent award in the under-16s, an award she had previously won in 2024.

Under-16

Some new names appeared on the under-16 awards, with Yanac Warriors’ Annabella Zanker winning the girls’ best-and-fairest ahead of Kaniva Raiders’ Delta Stimson, and Kaniva’s Jonas Beattie receiving the boys’ award, with Dimboola Kangaroos’ Roary Hadzig runner-up. Daniel Bee of Nhill and Henry Zanker, Yanac, were joint leading boys’ goalscorers, each scoring 28, while Delta Stimson, Kaniva, received the girls’ award with five goals. In her last season in under-16s, Dimboola’s Rebecca-May Williams received junior goalkeeper of the year for the second time, and the Annie Anderson Memorial Goalkeeper Encouragement Award went to Nile Krelle of Nhill Leopards.

ABOVE: Leading goalkeepers, from left, Annie Anderson Memorial Goalkeeper Encouragement Award, Nile Krelle, Nhill Leopards, open, Henry Gill, Nhill Rangers, women, Madisson Bentley, Warracknabeal, and under16s, Rebecca-May Williams, Dimboola Kangaroos. LEFT: Umpire encouragement award recipient Logan Krelle.

Other awards

Under-16 encouragement awards, acknowledging those who contribute to the association beyond just playing, went to Olive Curtis, Kaniva, and Barrett Clark, Nhill, while the senior recognition award went to Yanac’s Shaun Alexander. The umpires’ encouragement award went to Logan Krelle of Kaniva, while Warracknabeal’s Alice Flannery was acknowledged for her contribution as a tech bench official, as the only one to fill this role in all 15 rounds.

SERVICE: Recognition and encouragement award recipients Olive Curtis, Kaniva, Shaun Alexander, Yanac, and Barrett Clark, Nhill.

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Long distance flight H

orsham Racing Pigeon Club staged two 529-kilometre races from Broken Hill on Sunday.

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Exceptional average velocities were flown by the leading pigeons in both races, given the strong 25kmh northerly wind, which gusted at 40kmh early in the day. The Benzing Derby race saw 343 open-aged pigeons released at 6.35am. The leading pigeons arrived back at their Horsham lofts after four hours and 21 minutes to average 121.3kmh, or 2021.75 metres a minute. The winning pigeon, based on fastest velocity flown, was owned by Brian Watts. It was 30 seconds ahead of second-placed Rob Nelson’s entry at 2018m/m, with Bill Hartigan’s bird 10 seconds away in third at 2016.6 m/m. While Nelson’s entry homed 32 seconds ahead of Watts’ winner, the latter had 2.1km further to fly to average the fastest velocity. The second race saw 201 pigeons, all in their first year of racing, released at 7am. The young birds, especially rung with a gold life ring at about seven days of age, were also out of sight within minutes on their homeward flight. The winning bird was entered by John Muszkieta. It averaged 1980m/m, or 118.8kmh, to win by 32 seconds from Bruce Rentsch’s second- placed entry at 1976m/m, 13 seconds ahead of Terry Brauer’s third placed leading entry at 1974m/m. Both races were among the fastest races held by the Horsham club, clearly the result of the strong northerly wind on Sunday. The club will host two long distance races from Bourke, NSW, and Cunnamulla, Queensland, at the weekend. Like horse racing, some pigeons are better-suited to the longer, slower races and others more suited to the sprints and mid-distance racing.

On Sunday, September 13, John Aisbett scored a clear win by four minutes, 11 seconds in the club’s race from Hillston, NSW, a distance of 472 kilometres from Horsham. Aisbett’s winner averaged 1591m/m, or 95.46kmh, for its four-hour, 56-minute flight from the release point. Their return to the loft, while Aisbett stepped inside for a coffee, was registered on an electronic timer. However, for racing pigeon enthusiasts, the thrill of viewing their leading pigeon return home is part of the buzz in each race. There were 528 pigeons released at 6.30am for their return flight. Favourable north-north-east winds ranging from 18kmh with gusts up to 32kmh were forecast along the flight path. While there was little wind at Hillston at 6.30am, there was no doubt the leading mob encountered favourable wind to boost their average speed by more than 25kmh for the entire journey. Some 30 leading pigeons were sighted arriving in their home region on the eastern fringe of Haven. The second-placed pigeon, four minutes, 11 seconds behind the winner and owned by Dalton Cross, averaged 1569m/m or 94.14kmh, and was 11 seconds ahead of Rob Nelson’s third-placed leading entry at 1568m/m or 94.1kmh. Ballarat Central Highlands hosted a Breeders Plate Race from Coombah, 421km to Horsham, earlier this month, where Horsham member Terry Brauer struck the jackpot having three of his entries take first, second and third in the feature race, open to Western Victorian lofts. Arguably more significant is that St Arnaud racing pigeon enthusiast, Murry McPhie, bred all three pigeons and placed them in Brauer’s loft to race on his behalf, as there is no pigeon club in St Arnaud.

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Find us on Facebook & Instagram 2 Apricot Avenue, Horsham 03 5382 0473

Page 36

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Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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Tennis precinct works progress

A GRADE PREMIERS: Team Hufflepuff, from back left, Subin Mathews, Jinu Antony, Tim Nurse and Harshdeep Singh; and front, Ellen Jalil and Mark Ngoi.

Badminton showdown

orsham Badminton Association hosted its winter grand finals on Monday last week, featuring intense games across two grades of competition.

In A Grade, ladder-leader Ravenclaw took on Hufflepuff. An evenly contested first set saw Hufflepuff’s Harshdeep Singh and Subin Mathews narrowly defeat Ravenclaw’s Josh Dunn and Joel Beggs 21-19, 24-22. Hufflepuff extended its lead when Tim Nurse and Jinu Antony combined to win a three-game set against Clayton Duxworth and Lakshdeep Chawla. Ravenclaw’s Brad Harberger and Sue Goudie dominated their battle against Ellen Jalil and Mark Ngoi to win their team’s first set of the night, before Beggs and Harberger teamed up to defeat Mathews and Jalil to level the match. The next four doubles sets were hard fought and closely contested, but all four went the way of Hufflepuff, which claimed an upset victory, seven sets to two. Nurse, Antony and Singh were all standouts for the victors, remaining undefeated on the night. The B Grade grand final was be-

B GRADE PREMIERS: Team Aladdin, from back left, Belinda Amess, Cooper Austin and Lea Maier, and front, Deni Dominic and Aden Merrett. Alan Tomy is absent.

tween teams Aladdin and Moana. Aladdin’s Aden Merrett and Belinda Amess were the strongest pair in the competition and narrowly overcame Whitney O’Sullivan and Jenny Maroske 15-9, 10-15, 1513. Lea Maier and Deni Dominic then combined to extend Aladdin’s

lead, winning 15-4, 13-15, 15-8, against Annabel Nuske and Joan Velthuis. Moana’s Alvin Jiss and Jackson Hams tried to keep their team in the match but were narrowly defeated by Alan Tomy and Cooper Austin in a tight threegame set.

O’Sullivan and Nuske clawed back the next set in a dominant display against Merrett and Maier, but the following three sets all went the way of team Aladdin, which claimed victory seven sets to two. Amess, Dominic and Tomy all remained undefeated in their three respective sets.

A $700,000 transformation of Ararat Tennis Club will deliver elite-standard lighting and extensive accessibility and safety enhancements. Works across the entire precinct include dedicated on-site disabled parking bays directly adjacent to the courts; smooth, fully accessible footpaths complete with safety lighting; clear, modern site signage; and upgraded perimeter fencing surrounding the facility. Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Tim Harrison said tennis was a hugely popular sport in the region, particularly night competition, so bringing the facility up to modern standards was a fantastic result for the community. “These upgrades ensure people of all abilities can safely access and move around the precinct,” he said. “Upgrading the lighting opens the door for the club to expand its night competitions, run broader community programming and attract major regional events.” The precinct upgrade is jointly funded through a $560,000 grant secured by Ararat Rural City Council from the State Government’s Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund, alongside a $120,000 investment from council and $20,000 from Ararat Tennis Club. Civil works for the project are being delivered by SHS Civil, with MP Electrical and Solar executing the court lighting installation. The full project is expected to be completed by the summer season, depending on weather conditions.

Manning injured Great Western harness driver Kerryn Manning faces a lengthy stint on the sidelines in the aftermath of a fall at Melton on September 12. Scans revealed the five-time Australian harness premiership winner had fractured three vertebrae – L1, L2, and L3 – and one of them was slightly displaced. “I’m waiting to hear from the Royal Melbourne back specialist as to what needs to be done or it’s nothing, then I can go home for a rest and some good painkillers … which so far aren’t doing much,” Manning said. Manning went home after the fall, but the pain increased through the night and she went for scans the following day. “Judging by the pain, I wasn’t expecting a good outcome and sadly it’s not,” she said. “It is just over three years ago I did the same three fractures on the other side. How’s the irony?” That fall was at the Horsham trials in late July, 2023, forcing Manning out of racing for almost two months on that occasion. “This time hurts much more than that last time,” she said.

Thinking of a day that’s got it all? Think Horsham Cup! We’ve got live music, fashions, kids craft tent and up close racing action! Request your favourite song at The Frites Piano Bar Marquee, a fully catered cocktail-style experience, ft. all-day grazing, and a ﬁve-hour beverage package! Or book an Umbrella package trackside. There is plenty to suit everyone.

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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RESERVES: Ararat 17.6 (108) defeated Horsham Saints 6.11 (47). Best-on-ground, Lewis Hodgins.

UNDER-17S: Horsham 10.11 (71) defeated Ararat 6.4 (40). Best-onground, Zavier Purdue.

UNDER-14S: Nhill 5.8 (38) defeated Ararat 4.7 (31). Best-on-ground, Ah Nee Nwe.

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For more photographs go to theweeklyadvertiser.com.au TRIUMPH: Nhill prevailed against Ararat in a fiercely fought senior grand final match at Horsham City Oval on Saturday. Pictured in action are, clockwise from above: Nhill’s Petros Politis; Mitch Dahlenburg tackles Ryder Belcher; Frazer Driscoll, Nhill; Austin Merrett and Cody Lindsay; Xavier Bone, Nhill, and Riley Taylor; Ben Taylor fends off Jarryd Dahlenburg; and centre, Lachlan Ryan, Nhill.

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EYES ON PRIZE: Horsham Saints defeated Dimboola in the A Grade netball grand final on Saturday. Pictured during the hard-fought match are, clockwise from left: Saints goalie Jorja Clode; Megan Byrne, Saints; Lena Marshman and Rhiana Kuhne; Emily Taylor and Ashlee Grace; Olivia Beugelaar, Dimboola; Saints’ Olivia Taylor; and centre, Giselle Clugston and Maddi Bethune. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

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13-AND-UNDER: Horsham Saints (40) d Minyip-Murtoa (30). Best-on-court, Valeria Sierra, Saints.

15-AND-UNDER: Horsham (48) d Stawell (27). Best-on-court, Luella Burke, Horsham.

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Premiership win ‘one for the ages’

orsham Saints were once again crowned premiers and champions of Wimmera league A Grade netball, but they were pushed hard by Dimboola in Saturday’s grand final.

A fired-up Roos got out to a fourgoal lead early, but the Saints pegged back the margin to just one goal at quarter-time. The pressure from Dimboola forced the Saints to make positional changes early in the second term, with usual goal attack Lena Marshman moved into goal keeper to quell the influence of the Roos’ tall goalers. The move meant Olivia Taylor, who had just played with Marshman in the 17-and-under grand final, came onto the court in goal attack. The Roos initially maintained their lead, out to 18-14, and their defenders Eloise Wills and Stephanie Glover had the Saints attacking ends’ measure. The Saints took a while to settle and find their groove – no team had seriously come this close all season, so they were not used to the tight margins. Whereas for the Roos, close margins were their jam. But as the saying goes ‘you can’t keep a good team down’, and the Saints showed why they are the number-one team in the competition. Scores were goal-for-goal for most of the second term, until the Saints pulled away at the end of the quarter to take a 28-23 lead into the main break. Saints coach Vernetta Taylor said despite her team’s slow start, she was confident it would weather the storm. “We had to work hard for it. It was such a cracking game,” she said. “Dimboola just was so impressive, from the very first whistle to the last. “They really brought it. We had to work so hard, so all credit to them. It was a great contest. “Dimboola’s start was incredible. I

Best-on-court, Steph Glover had to make positional changes. It’s not often I actually have to do that in a game, so they made us make a few changes, so good on them. “But I just trusted the girls. I had a belief that we had the team, we had the game, we just had to ride it out, which we did, and stay calm and composed, and I thought we did that really well.” The Saints coach’s call to move Marshman into defence proved a master stroke. “Their goalers are quite tall, they’re accurate, and they were putting in a lot of high balls and we weren’t able to contest them,” Taylor said. “Lena has an incredible vertical jump. She has an incredible stretch and read on the ball, so we always had that up our sleeve. “Lena was our goal keeper last year – she’s so versatile, so I knew that moving her into that goal circle would make them hesitate about putting in the high balls. “She got hands on so many – I thought she was incredible.” With Olivia Taylor goaling well, Saints star goal shooter Jorja Clode began to work herself into the game, getting on top of the Roos’ defenders,

THREE CHEERS: Saints coach Vernetta Taylor and captain Ashlee Grace raise the premiership cup during team celebrations. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER who would often double-team her, and overcoming the Dimboola crowd, which tried to put the league’s leading shooter off her game. Coach Taylor said winning a premiership with her daughter Olivia was a special moment. “Oh, gosh, I’m so proud of her because it was such a high-pressure moment – it was such a high-pressure game,” she said. “She’d just come off an under-17 loss, so there was a lot of emotion there. “But I trusted that she was more than capable to go out and do the job and I thought she did a fantastic job. “The team rallied around her because obviously she doesn’t have the experience of the other players, but they supported her so well, made sure she always had an easy ball that she could give, and I thought she did an outstanding job for us.” Trailing by eight goals halfway

through the third term, the Roos made positional changes of their own, bringing youngster Giselle Clugston into goal attack. But by that stage, the Saints were powering ahead and found their modus operandi, jumping out to a 43-33 lead by three-quarter time. The Roos continued to throw everything at the Saints, making several positional changes including moving leading defender Glover to goal keeper to try to quell Clode’s growing influence. “I thought Jorja was incredible, as she is every week. But to have that pressure from the crowd, it was intense, and to have a swap of goal attacks – because normally she is playing with Lena – she was so strong under the post against two incredible defenders,” Taylor said. “Steph Glover is amazing – all credit to her being best-on-court because she had an incredible game, and

Eloise Wills was putting on good pressure.” In the end, the Saints proved their consistency and class to continue their unbeaten run and win the grand final 57-39. While Marshman and league bestand-fairest Ashlee Grace, in centre, were judged the Saints’ best, the best-player medal went to Dimboola’s Stephanie Glover. Taylor described the match as ‘one for the ages’. “I think for the spectators, I hope they can really appreciate a good match and seeing the standard of netballers we have in our region,” she said. “We have a high-standard competition. Our athletes are up there with the best in the state, and they should be really proud of it. “The spectacle they put on today was amazing.”

POSITIONAL CHANGES: Saints’ Lena Marshman, left, moved into defence with Maddi Bethune, right, to give the Saints an advantage against Dimboola goalers’ height, with Olivia Taylor, above, stepping into goal attack.

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Passing the baton N

hill’s Wimmera league grand final win was about more than just the senior football team.

The townspeople of Nhill were out in force in Horsham on Saturday – a sea of blue-and-yellow lined city oval to cheer on their Tiger teams in both the under-14s and seniors. After the junior team won in the morning, all attention turned to breaking a 45-year senior premiership drought. After a quiet first quarter with Nhill kicking just one goal, the Tiger faithful found their voice in the second term to cheer on their boys as they mounted a comeback. But in the second half, as the Tigers became the hunted, there was a hush over the crowd as they nervously wondered if Nhill could hold off the fancied Ararat. As Nhill increased its lead in the last term, there was a sense of urgency among Tiger supporters to ‘just blow the siren’. They had waited long enough to win a Wimmera league premiership, with the last senior football cup in Nhill’s trophy cabinet dated 1981. When that siren sounded, hundreds of Nhill supporters of all ages rushed onto the ground to mob their club’s premiership heroes.

For Nhill, with a population of about 2500 people, the premiership win was a point of celebration for generations of families involved in the club. Club president Daniel Colbert told the crowd at the after-match presentation the premiership win meant more to the Nhill community than just a senior grand final win. “Today we showed a generation of young kids you can grow up at the end of the Western Highway, work your arse off, do what your coach says, put in the time and effort, and achieve greatness,” he said. “That’s a privilege that I think growing up in a smaller town, sometimes we forget – that’s the most important thing that happened here today for us.” Colbert thanked the Nhill faithful for the all-of-club effort that went into achieving a premiership – and jokingly declared it would be a public holiday in Nhill on Monday as the celebrations would continue. “ It was a great effort from all the boys. Spectators, you’ve been with us through thick and thin – and we’ve had plenty of time of the thin – so thanks very much for sticking by us,’ he said. “It’s been a long road back to success – 45 years since our last premiership.”

Colbert paid tribute to Ararat – which fielded four football teams in grand finals across all grades – including the under-14s, which the Tigers won. “You guys set the standard for us to meet, and that’s what we’ve been aiming at for the last few years,” Colbert said. “Thank you for bringing the Wimmera league to the standard it is now, because it’s not just Nhill that tries to go with you guys – it’s every club. “The Wimmera league couldn’t be in a better position than it is right now for success and the great standard of football.” Colbert also thanked senior coaches Jake McQueen and Trevor Ryan for their leadership. “It’s great leadership that brings not necessarily the better players up, but certainly those guys that just needed a spit and polish, and that’s what’s allowed us to achieve our success today,” he said. “These guys have lifted individual players 10, 15, 20 per cent up, and that’s what’s allowed us to achieve our success today.” Immediately after the match, co-captain Mitch Dahlenburg said the premiership win ‘felt very surreal’. Dahlenburg has played most of his 300-plus games of senior footy at

his home club of Nhill – and the win meant as much to him as anyone. “To actually be here now and look at that scoreboard, I’m still a bit in shock but just so proud of the club – not just the players, the club and everyone else,” he said. Dahlenburg said the win was made more special by having a majority of the club’s 1981 premiership team in

attendance to see the Tigers break the 45-year drought. “We had former Nhill footballer Jeff Fritsch come and speak to the group on Thursday night about ‘it’s time to hand the baton over’, and I’m pretty proud to say that I’m part of the team that’s got the baton and a bit of history for the club,” he said.

Childhood dream comes to fruition for McQueen While it was a case of he came, he saw, he conquered – Jake McQueen’s return to his home town of Nhill to lead the Tigers to a historic senior football premiership has been all about heart. On Saturday, McQueen achieved his childhood dream of leading Nhill to win an elusive senior flag. And with his premiership medal in hand, McQueen will depart Nhill. On Monday, he was announced as co-coach of North Albury with former AFL player Daryn Cresswell, who previously coached him at Wangaratta Rovers. McQueen returned to his hometown club in 2024, after his football journey took him to play in the VFL for Southport, Essendon and North Ballarat, as well as in the Ballarat and Ovens and Murray leagues. The Tigers had finished 2023 in seventh spot, winning just three games that season. With all his football knowledge and contacts, McQueen set about working with key club people to not only develop Nhill locals, but strategically recruit players to fill specific positions and fit into the club’s culture. Two star recruits in 2024 – Peter Politis from the Northern Territory, and ruckman Daniel Batson, who returned for another stint at the Tigers – turned out to play integral roles in Nhill producing a premiership side. The Tigers went on to win eight games in 2024, making finals, and McQueen was named Wimmera league’s senior coach of the year. It was a foundation year in rebuilding Nhill’s senior side. With more expectation on their shoulders in 2025, the Tigers – adding longtime country footy coach Trevor Ryan to co-coach with McQueen – Page 44

CROWD PLEASER: Nhill co-coach and hometown hero Jake McQueen lines up for an attempt at goal. finished second, but bowed out in a preliminary final to the eventual premiers Ararat. Nhill kept building and in 2026 continued to add a couple more strategic recruits to a team that consisted of two-thirds of local blokes. Joining Politis this season were fellow Northern Territory footballers Stanley Cox, Lachlan Gill and Kobe Hodges, plus co-coach Ryan’s two sons, Lachlan and Josh, who have been handy pick-ups. “We sat down at the start of the year with Trevor and a few of the other boys and we worked out what we needed to fill, and I feel like we did that,” McQueen said. “Honestly, they all clicked and got

along with the group so well, it honestly feels like a big family.” It’s that family connection that drew McQueen back to Nhill, and he has often referred to it and the community when being interviewed by The Weekly Advertiser during the past three seasons. But when speaking immediately after Saturday’s premiership win, the magnitude of the achievement was yet to sink in. “I don’t know how to feel yet. I’m sure over the next few days I’ll be overwhelmed with emotions, but I’m just so proud,” McQueen said. “ There’s just generations and generations of fellas that are out there whose fathers and grandfathers have www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au

played for Nhill, so you can just see how much it meant to the community. “When that siren went, I remember first getting around all the lads, but then looking out and just seeing a wave of supporters running onto the ground – I got pretty emotional when I saw that, because you can just see how much it means to everyone.” McQueen led the Tigers brilliantly throughout the finals series, and was awarded the best player medal in the grand final. “I couldn’t have done it without every single player who was out in the field there. What a way to finish my career at Nhill,” he said. “I couldn’t be more stoked with hav-

ing this premiership medal around my neck, so I’m very grateful. “It is a team game, and this one (the premiership medal) means the most … this is a childhood dream, so I won’t be taking this one off for a while.” Just like the Tigers’ somewhat rollercoaster season, the grand-final match was an up-and-down affair. McQueen said it wasn’t until late in the game that he knew the Tigers had it won. “I didn’t want to blow the horn too early, but I think it was when Xavier Bone kicked that dribbler along the ground, I think we might’ve been 30 or 35 points up at that stage. But I just didn’t want to get too excited because Ararat kicked two or three pretty quickly in that last quarter and I was like ‘oh no’,” he said. In the eyes of McQueen, it was that key 2024 recruit, Batson, who stood up when needed on Saturday. “I can’t go past big Batson in the ruck – the way he dominated and just pushed his opponent around and grabbed it out and just got clearance after clearance – it definitely got it in our forward half,” McQueen said. “Forward-half entries and pressure in these sort of games is what wins football, and I feel like we had them both in spades. “The want that this group had before coming into this game and the internal motivation we had with obviously our captain Lucas Dahlenburg breaking his leg the week before was very emotional. “We had gone from winning with a goal after the siren in the preliminary final to finding out he’s broken his leg – and now we’ve won a flag. It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster.” Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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MOMENT TO SAVOUR: Nhill’s Drew Schneider soaks in the atmosphere during Saturday’s grand final win against Ararat at Horsham City Oval.

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Drought broken in emotional win

desperation to win and break a 45-year senior premiership drought proved the catalyst in Nhill’s 42-point victory in Saturday’s Wimmera league grand final.

Thousands packed Horsham City Oval to watch a highly fancied Ararat, aiming for its fourth consecutive premiership, play Nhill, the team forced to make the grand final the hard way after finishing in fourth spot. The Tigers’ rollercoaster season was no more evident than when, after a four-point win over the Rats in round 16, they suffered an unexpected loss to Warrack Eagles the following week, costing them third spot and a double chance. It meant every final was sudden-death for the Tigers, and they earnt a grand final place with a Peter Politis goal after the siren in the preliminary final. But it wasn’t all good news; Nhill lost captain Lucas Dahlenburg, who broke his leg in the preliminary final, and went into their most important match of the season without a key player. On the flipside, after finishing on top, the Rats only had to win a second semi-final to earn a spot in the grand final. The fresh and rested Ararat side looked impressive early on Saturday, piling on five goals to one in the first quarter, despite Nhill having more inside 50s, 15-12. Tigers co-coach Trevor Ryan gave his side a rev-up at the quarter-time huddle, and told them not to be bullied by the Rats: “It’s a grand final – there are no second chances.”

Nhill responded in the second term – goals to Josh Ryan and Xavier Bone had them back in the game, and when Wallace Wheaton scored a goal on the run, the Tigers trailed by nine points. The two teams traded goals before Drew Schneider kicked two majors to give Nhill a 51-47 lead at half-time. The Tigers made use of the breeze with a seven-goal-to-two quarter, led by co-coach Jake McQueen, setting up a grand final for the ages. The third quarter was an arm-wrestle, with the battle between two Wimmera league superstars – Ararat coach Tom Williamson and Nhill utility Frazer Driscoll – an enthralling watch. The Tigers were able to edge out to a 71-54 lead but a Sonny Kettle long-bomb put the margin back to 11 points. A kick on the siren from the league’s best under-21 player, Tom Wheaton, put the Tigers out to a 78-61 lead at the last change. A frustrated Williamson told his charges at the huddle their ‘midfield was getting smashed’ and they needed to dig deep throughout the fourth quarter to get the win. The Rats responded immediately through their captain Tom Mills, who marked and goaled early, and put the margin within reach. But a miracle goal from Driscoll on the boundary, followed by another Tom Wheaton major gave the Tigers an 87-67 buffer. Ararat missed some chances in front of goal, and it seemed like everything was falling the way of the Tigers. Bone kicked a goal on the run, the ball bouncing through to give Nhill fans a moment of celebration amid what was a tense final quarter.

TOPPLE: Nhill’s Liam Albrecht crunches into Sonny Kettle, Ararat. But when the Rats kicked another two goals, and with the scoreline at 81-99, Tiger fans held their breath and wondered if it was the start of an Ararat comeback. Bone snapped a goal from in close, his second for the quarter, and it was all Nhill after that – kicking the next three goals to close out a 123-81 win. Tom Wheaton, with four goals, was awarded the AFL Victoria medal for best under-21 player of the match, while McQueen won the Binns Medal for best player. Trevor Ryan, who joined the Tigers as co-coach last season, was glowing in his praise of McQueen.

“On Jake’s performances, he’s been fantastic right through the finals,” he said. “He’s done outstanding work onfield and off-field – he’s a good coach and he’s going to go a long way if he sticks at it. “Ararat flew out of the blocks and we could have put our heads down and let them go on with it, but we found a way, and that’s due to everything Jake has put together. “He’s really good strategically in regards to that stuff, and the players wanted it and it came down to that word – want.” For Ryan, the win was ‘super spe-

cial’ being able to share it with his sons Josh and Lachlan, both handy recruits to the Tigers. “I was lucky enough to coach Lachlan in that 2022 premiership at Birchip, and that was fantastic. To be honest with you, I didn’t think I’d ever get a chance to coach Josh,” he told 3WM after the match. Josh crossed over the border from West Adelaide in the SANFL but has battled concussion issues in recent times. “I didn’t think I’d ever even see him play again, to be honest with you,” Ryan said. “He wanted to play some footy with Lachlan, and he’s slipped into this team really well and gave us a really good edge up forward. “As far as coaching the both of them, oh I loved it. I enjoyed every minute of it. I don’t know whether those guys would say the same, but I absolutely loved it. “It’s something special you can look back on and say ‘well, we did it together’.” Ryan said he was just glad to do his bit in adding to the work of McQueen and assistant coach – former Essendon footballer – David Flood, who had rebuilt a senior team good enough to compete with the best of the Wimmera league. “There’s a lot of people who have put a lot of work into this footy club, and to come together after such a long season where you’ve had to play 11 games to get into a grand final … it wore us out and we lost some soldiers along the way, but to the group’s credit, they stood up when we needed them to stand up,” he said.

JOY: Nhill co-coach Trevor Ryan and assistant coaches Tim Bone and Mal Coutts. SEA OF BLUE AND YELLOW: Nhill supporters unite to cheer on their home sides. Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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Golfers rise to challenge

Wimmera District Golf Association, WDGA, women’s representative side last week achieved a feat not seen this century, going undefeated to top division three of Victorian Country Week action in Ballarat.

The annual Country Week tournament pits Victoria’s best country associations against one another in a match-play format across multiple divisions. WDGA women’s captain Lisa Jakobi said she knew entering the tournament that it was the most talented team the Wimmera had fielded in recent memory. “I thought if we were going to have a chance to win, the team I took with me was the best team we’ve had for many years,” she said. “Often not everyone’s available on those dates, but this year we did have quite a few of our low handicappers available.” The team started strongly on Monday last week, recording a 6.5 to 0.5 win against neighbouring association Kara Kara at Ballarat Golf Club. On Monday afternoon the Wimmera topped South Gippsland 5-2, and on Tuesday it defeated Dalhousie 4-3 at Bunninyong Golf Club to set up a rematch with South Gippsland in Wednesday’s final at Midlands Golf Club.

SUCCESS: Wimmera District Golf Association women’s representative side was undefeated in top division three of Victorian Country Week. The winning team is pictured back, from left, Kylie O’Connor, Kris Knight, Jill Morrison, Libby Lacey, Fleur Finlayson and Tracey Hobbs, and front from left, Sarah Magor, Sharon Howden, Julie Schmidt, Lisa Jakobi, Amanda Brownsea, Marg Taylor, Carolyn Morcom and Wendy Burns. With matches tied at two apiece, the Wimmera’s final three players secured wins and clinched the final 5-2. The Wimmera’s top performer across the tournament was Horsham’s Marg Taylor, who won threeand-a-half points from her matches. Other top contributors included Amanda Brownsea, Tracey Hobbs, Kristine Knight and Jillian Morrison, who won three points each. Jakobi said the Wimmera would advance to division two of Country

Week next year for the first time this century. “On the trophy we got it said the last time Wimmera won that division was in 1999. So this is the best team we’ve had in a while,” she said. “It works on a relegation and promotion system, with the winning team going up and the bottom team going down.” The Wimmera’s men were unable to match the feat of the women despite a strong opening day of com-

petition. In a narrow battle that came down to the final match, the Wimmera lowered its colours to Dalhousie 4-3 at Ballarat Golf Club, before beating Kara Kara 5.5 to 1.5 on Monday afternoon. On Tuesday the team was on the wrong end of a 5.5-1.5 win by East Gippsland at Bunninyong Golf Club, and concluded its tournament with a 4-3 loss to Kara Kara at Midlands Golf Club on Wednesday.

Preusker’s prize Horsham horse trainer Paul Preusker received an early present ahead of the holidays on Sunday, scoring a win in the Great New Zealand Steeplechase with Frenchbred gelding Christmas. Ridden by jockey Darryl Horner Jr, Christmas settled at the rear of the field for much of the 6200m race. With about 800m to run Horner made his move, closing in on race leaders Captains Run and Smug in the straight to win by one-and-a-quarter lengths. Preusker said the extra distance suited Christmas after the 10-year-old ran fourth at the 4500m Grand National Steeplechase in Ballarat last month. “He’s not a fast horse, but the more jumping the better. A little bit of extra ground today really helped him,” he said. “I was pretty confident Daryl knows the horse. There were no instructions – it was just leave him to his job, and he pulled it off.” Preusker said patience had paid off when it came to Christmas – both during Sunday’s race and for the gelding’s owners. “We bought him from France for a jumper, but it took a while to get him to work with me and be tough enough for it,” he said. “It’s been a patient game and a good effort by the owners for sticking with him, actually. It’s been rewarded.” With the win, Christmas collected NZ$115,000 and Preusker said he was eager to make the trip across the Tasman Sea again next year. “Words really can’t describe how I’m feeling at the moment. It’s a good achievement. It’s a good first season for the horse, and I look forward to next year,” he said. “Everyone here has been great. The hospitality has been second to none.”

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Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Sport Vol. 29 No. 13 Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Nhill co-coach Jake McQueen led his side to an historic Wimmera league football premiership on Saturday – the Tigers’ first senior flag since 1981. McQueen had already told the club it would be his last game for the Tigers as he is leaving to coach North Albury in the Ovens and Murray league in 2027. Nhill dismantled the highly fancied Ararat side by 42 points in the grand final at Horsham City Oval. Full coverage, pages 39-45. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

TIGERS ROAR!

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Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Lena Marshman

Olivia Taylor

Megan Byrne

HORSHAM SAINTS

Premiership and champions: Back, from left, Lani King, Maddi Bethune, Jorja Clode and Olivia Taylor; middle, from left, Ruby Bethune, Lena Marshman, coach Vernetta Taylor, captain Ashlee Grace, Megan Byrne, Zeena Kelm and Shannon Cross; and front, from left, Jordy and Evie Byrne, and Denver and Madden Cross.

A GRADE 2026

DIMBOOLA

Goals: Horsham Saints: Jorja Clode 45, Olivia Taylor 12; Dimboola: Olivia Beugelaar 19, Nicole Polycarpou 16, Giselle Clugston 4. Best: Horsham Saints: Lena Marshman, Ashlee Grace; Dimboola: Stephanie Glover, Rianna Kuhne. Best-on-court: Stephanie Glover, Dimboola.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER. Graphics: KELLY LAIRD, KARL REITER and THOMAS HOBBS.

Jorja Clode

Lena Marshman

Olivia Taylor

Megan Byrne

HORSHAM SAINTS

A GRADE 2026

DIMBOOLA

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER. Graphics: KELLY LAIRD, KARL REITER and THOMAS HOBBS.

Jorja Clode

Petros Politis

Koby Hodges

Mitch Dahlenburg

Frazer Driscoll

Best-on-ground: Jake McQueen

Under 21 medallist: Tom Wheaton

NHILL

1.1

8.4

12.6 19.9

(123)

Premiership team: Back, from left, assistant coach Mal Coutts, Jarryd Dahlenburg, Tom Wheaton, Rylan Schneider, Stanley Cox, Wallace Wheaton, Daniel Batson, Josh Lees, Koby Hodges and co-coach Trevor Ryan; middle, from left, Josh Ryan, Darcy Honeyman, Matt Kennedy, Frazer Driscoll, Austin Merrett and captain Mitch Dahlenburg; and front, from left, assistant coach Tim Bone, Petros Politis, Lachlan Gill, Lachlan Ryan, co-coach Jake McQueen, Drew Schneider, Liam Albrecht and Xavier Bone.

Proud supporters of local sports

SENIORS 2026

5.5

7.5

9.7

12.9

(81)

ARARAT

Goals: Nhill: Tom Wheaton 4, Xavier Bone 3, Drew Schneider, Frazer Driscoll, Lachlan Gill, Stanley Cox 2; Josh Ryan, Josh Lees, Petros Politis, Wallace Wheaton. Ararat: Tom Mills, 4, Ryder Belcher, Sonny Kettle 2, Brody Griffin, Jake Robinson, Ben Taylor, Hugh Toner. Best: Nhill: Xavier Bone, Jake McQueen, Lachlan Ryan, Daniel Batson, Frazer Driscoll, Tom Wheaton. Ararat: Tom Mills, Sonny Kettle, Hugh Toner, Harry Ganley, Matthew Spalding, Adam Haslett.

Leaders drive Fendt.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER. Graphics: KELLY LAIRD, KARL REITER and THOMAS HOBBS

Lachlan Ryan

Petros Politis

Koby Hodges

Mitch Dahlenburg

Frazer Driscoll

Best-on-ground: Jake McQueen

Under 21 medallist: Tom Wheaton

NHILL

1.1

8.4

12.6 19.9

(123)

Proud supporters of local sports

SENIORS 2026

5.5

7.5

9.7

12.9

(81)

ARARAT

Leaders drive Fendt.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER. Graphics: KELLY LAIRD, KARL REITER and THOMAS HOBBS

Lachlan Ryan