The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, September 24, 2025

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Rallying for mayor

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Horsham Rural City Council officials and members of the public rallied around mayor Ian Ross at an emotionally-charged meeting on Monday night as he publicly disclosed a cancer battle, requiring him to take a leave of absence.

Cr Ross earlier this month announced he would step down as mayor, with Cr Brian Klowss appointed as acting mayor at a special meeting on September 4.

On Monday, Cr Ross said he was set to commence treatment for an adenoid cystic carcinoma – a rare cancer that spreads along nerves.

“Extensive medical testing has revealed that I have a tumour in my palate, which extends to just beneath my brain,” he said.

“The nature of my illness means that I will need to take a leave of absence, the precise duration of which is currently unknown.

“As reluctant as I am to step away from the team, I couldn’t be more confident about the direction HRCC is heading in.

“The councillor group, supported by the CEO and staff at the council, will continue to build on the great things we have already achieved during a relatively short time together.

“I cannot adequately express just how much your support, love and prayers have meant to me during the past few weeks.”

Cr Ross became visibly emotional as he read the statement, asking Cr Klowss to finish the address on his behalf.

After finishing Cr Ross’ statement, Cr Klowss paid tribute to the mayor for ‘putting the commu nity first’ during a tumultuous period following the resignation of former chief executive Sunil Bhalla and the subsequent election of six new councillors.

“I want to talk about Ian Ross, not just as our mayor, but as someone I’ve come to know as both a friend and a colleague,”

Cr Klowss said.

“You came into this role as mayor less than a year ago after being the only incumbent councillor who got re-elected; that says some thing about you – about how people see you and your work.

“What I’ve watched you do over these months is what you said you’d do – you’ve listened.

“You’ve made sure our outer communities feel connected to council again. You’re out there at the sporting clubs, with the farmers, at community events. That’s not because it’s your job as mayor, that’s because that’s who you are.”

Cr Dean O’Loughlin hailed Cr Ross as ‘a men tor’.

“As I’ve said to you personally, now it’s time to put yourself first,” he said. “We’ll steer the boat for you for a little while and you’ll be sorely missed, as you know. We wish you a speedy recovery and hope you’re back with us soon.”

Cr Angela Munn had prepared a statement to read at the meeting but was overcome by emotion and simply said: “I’m looking forward to you coming back.”

Continued page 3

FLYING: Dannika Lincoln from St Leonards leaps in the air during her winning 14 years and older own-choreography dance at the 2025 Ararat Eisteddfod. Dancers from across Victoria converge on Ararat each year for the nine-day eisteddfod, which finishes on Saturday. More pictures, page 23. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Nhill Aerodrome back in operation

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

N

hill Aerodrome reopened on Monday after an incident that saw the wheel of an Ambulance Victoria helicopter sink into the tarmac near the runway, trapping the aircraft for several hours and delaying an emergency patient airlift earlier this month.

Hindmarsh Shire Council officials are investigating the circumstances of the September 6 incident, which came in the wake of a house fire at Netherby, north of Nhill.

A teenage girl was treated for serious respiratory issues at the scene and was due to be transported by Air Ambulance to Melbourne’s Alfred Hospital, but one of the helicopter’s wheels sank into the tarmac on a taxiway adjoining the runway.

With the helicopter unable to take off, the girl was transported via road ambulance to Horsham before being flown in a fixed-wing aircraft to Melbourne.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesper-

Last call for show entries

Horsham Agricultural and Pastoral Show organisers have extended the deadline for entries for its cookery, flowers, fruit, vegetables and scarecrow sections before the weekend’s event, in a bid to boost pavilion entries.

Show secretary Andrea Cross said while there was plenty of entertainment and community involvement secured, there was still opportunity for people to register their entries.

“People have until 5pm on Thursday to get their entries in,” she said.

“Because we’re the first show in the season, it takes a little while for people to get into show mode.”

Mrs Cross said this year’s attractions included a lifelike four-and-ahalf-metre dinosaur, the return of the sandpit dig and maze, live music and competitions.

“The wrestlers will also be back, we have an ironman competition where people can win Snap Fitness vouchers, and we have sword craft,” she said.

“The former poultry shed is the new home for craft and produce,

son said a paramedic dispatched as part of the Air Ambulance service accompanied the girl to Melbourne, while the helicopter’s flight crew, supplied by contractor Babcock, stayed behind with the stranded aircraft.

“The safety of our patients, paramedics, flight crew and the community remain Ambulance Victoria’s highest priority,” the spokesperson said.

“We can confirm a recent incident where a Helicopter Emergency Medical Service, HEMS, was unable to depart from the Nhill airfield due to a compromised runway surfacing issue.

“As is standard procedure, the crews on scene determined the most appropriate way to continue the level of care required and safely transported the patient to Horsham.”

A team of engineers was required to assess the helicopter following the incident. The helicopter sustained no structural damage and was able to safely depart hours later.

A Hindmarsh Shire Council spokesperson said the aerodrome had been closed following the incident as work-

ers fixed the taxiway, re-opening on Monday.

The spokesperson said council officials inspected the aerodrome twice per week to check for defects in its surface, but had not identified any issues prior to the incident.

“The defect in the taxiway was not identified during a routine inspection prior to the incident as the top surface of the pavement was not showing any signs of deterioration,” they said.

“Moisture ingress into the pavement due to recent wet weather and the air ambulance being over the maximum rated tonnes are likely to have combined to contribute to the incident.

“Nhill Aerodrome is rated to carry aircraft with a maximum of 5.7 tonnes as published on the Airservices Australia website. This information provides pilots with all of the key information on Nhill Aerodrome, so they are informed prior to landing.

“The Air Ambulance involved in the incident had a load of over seven tonnes.”

Ambulance Victoria officials said

the helicopter in question could not have exceeded seven tonnes as the Babcock-operated flights had a maximum takeoff weight of 6.8 tonnes.

They also confirmed Hindmarsh Shire Council had in the past granted dispensations to Babcock for HEMS services to exceed the Nhill aerodrome’s 5.7 tonne limit.

In November 2024 Hindmarsh Shire announced on its website that, ‘following a recent safety concern’, it had received funding to upgrade the pavement and drainage at the aerodrome’s emergency services taxiway and patient transfer area – the same taxiway through which the helicopter’s wheel sank.

Works reportedly included the removal of broken and non-functioning drains, the removal of poor-quality sub-surface material, the reconstruction and stabilisation of the surface, installation of new concrete drainage, re-sealing of taxiway area, and line marking to current civil aviation standards.

“These essential works have im-

cakes, fruit and veggies, and the shearing comp will be in the back of the Maydale Pavilion.

“We also have the sensory area in the cattle shed this year, alongside the market stall holders, sensory play, and face painting.”

Mrs Cross said there would be live music, competitions, the emergency services cup, and an online scavenger hunt. “We have a lot of people attend who have come back to Hor-

sham for the school holidays, or for the long weekend,” she said.

“They make it their time to come home, and go to the show.”

Mrs Cross said a new layout, ample parking, and an extended undercover area were also features of the event.

“We have extended stable one and have added more seating, so if the weather is cool, we can bring out our gas heaters, and people can sit,” she said.

“Live music, food trucks and Devonshire teas will be nearby – it will be a very good feel.”

The show opens with a twilight carnival from 5pm to 9pm on Saturday, with show day from 10am to 10pm on Sunday. People can visit horshamshow.com.au/horshamshow to view a schedule, or pick one up from Craft for a Cause in McLachlan Street under the T and G building.

proved access and safety for aircraft, operators and passengers using the Nhill Aerodrome, which provides essential services like Air Ambulance, police air wing, CFA aerial bombers, and local operators and pilots,” the statement read.

The Hindmarsh Shire Council spokesperson said officials had kept in contact with the girl’s family following the incident.

“Council officers have been regularly in touch with the family affected by the house fire to offer assistance where possible,” they said.

The spokesperson said the council was not involved in bringing engineers to assess the stranded helicopter, but that council workers had transported the Babcock flight crew after their shift ended, helping to bring back a fresh crew to pilot the aircraft.

“Council aided with transporting the crew to the halfway point, so they were able to return to Bendigo that day,” they said.

Show of support

From page 1

Cr Cam McDonald referenced Cr Ross’ religious faith.

“Us councillors – and I think I speak on behalf of our community as well –will be advocating very strongly to the chairman upstairs for a really positive outcome,” he said.

“If he’s got any other decisions that aren’t positive, we’ll ask him to defer those decisions, because we seriously need you back in the chair. You’ve set this ship really straight and you’re going to be a damn hard act to follow.”

Cr Todd Wilson thanked Cr Ross for his ‘extreme commitment’.

“I know it has not been easy. I wish you all the best and hope we see you back sooner rather than later,” he said.

Cr Ross yesterday told The Weekly Advertiser he had received ‘fantastic’ support from the Wimmera community, which he hailed as ‘so generous of heart’.

He said he hoped to resume his mayoral duties following his cancer treatment, but that the Horsham municipality would be well led in his absence.

Cr Ross said he chose to publicly reveal the nature of his health condition in the interest of transparency.

“The rumour mill starts and things get changed, so I thought if I said exactly what it is then there’s no doubt and people don’t try to guess what might be the problem,” he said.

“We’ve had a lot of support from the community. It’s been a bit overwhelming actually – it’s been great.”

RETURNING: Horsham A and P Society secretary Andrea Cross, volunteer Austin Jones, and staff member Luke Ladlow are preparing for this weekend’s Horsham Show, which will see the return of the popular sandpit dig. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Units secure lodge future

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Leaders of the Minyip-based Dunmunkle Lodge aged-care facility believe a $400,000 Federal Government grant will help secure the service’s future.

The government this month announced Dunmunkle Lodge would receive $404,000 to construct new portable staff dwellings on site – part of $300-million distributed in the latest round of its Aged Care Capital Assistance Program, ACCAP.

Dunmunkle Lodge chief executive Susan Boyd said the staff accommodation would be vital for the facility’s continued operation.

“We’ve struggled to get staff and keep them purely because of the fact that we don’t have any staff accommodation available in Minyip,” she said.

“Some of the staff that we have hired in the past haven’t been able to drive either, so they can’t stay nearby in places like Warracknabeal or Horsham.

“We applied for this grant to build four units on site here at Dunmunkle Lodge. We applied for two two-bedroom units and two one-bedrooms units.

“It will pretty much secure our future, because we don’t have too much trouble recruiting, but we just can’t house them.”

Ms Boyd said a Federal Government mandate requiring all aged-care facilities to have at least one registered nurse on duty at all times – which took effect on July 1 this year – had made Dunmunkle

Lodge’s need to retain staff even greater.

“Because of the requirement to have a registered nurse on duty 24-7, we need to be able to recruit more registered nurses,” she said.

“We just had one registered nurse who came down from Cairns and she had to resign because she couldn’t find any accommodation for her and her family.

“She rented for a while in town before her family came, but she couldn’t find anything for the family so she had to go.

“It’s so frustrating and saddening to see things like that happen, because she was amazing.”

Ms Boyd said the new portable units would be constructed as Lascelles before being transported to Minyip.

Senator for Victoria Jana Stewart said the funding was ‘great news’ for the region

“Projects in Benalla, Seymour and Shepparton, as well as Boort and Minyip, will support older locals to access quality aged care services while remaining close to their families and cultural connections,” she said.

“As someone who grew up in regional Victoria, I know how important it is that older people can get the care they need without having to leave their community.

“These investments will help attract and retain the workforce we need to deliver aged care across our regions.

“Older people play such an important role in our community, and it is essential they are provided the very best in aged care.”

REMEMBERED: Green Park Lions Club members, from

Leeuw with Bill De Leeuw’s commendations. Mr De Leeuw will be honoured in a memorial

at Stawell with other Lions members who have died in the past year.

Lions honour late member

Horsham’s Green Park Lions Club has posthumously honoured Bill De Leeuw with a 55-year Membership Monarch.

Accepted on his behalf at a meeting by his son Russell De Leeuw, club president Carolyn Maltry said Mr De Leeuw would be remembered for his fastidious recordkeeping and fundraising abilities.

president, membership chairman and ‘tail twister’.

He inducted his wife Trish into his final club, renamed Green Park Lions last year, where there are about 16 members – the youngest being 16 years old.

House near the Austin Hospital, for country people to stay in.

“We also save up postage stamps, which are sold, and reading glasses, which are sent overseas within the Fred Hollows Foundation.”

“He was a terrific raffle seller, he seemed to know everyone in Horsham so would sell more than any other member,” she said.

“Bill was a great worker with a great sense of humour, and loved talking about his days when he arrived from the Netherlands.”

Mr De Leeuw joined the Rupanyup Lions Club in 1969 and transferred to Horsham in 1993.

He served as president, vice-

Ms Maltry said the group fundraises for projects in the Horsham area, and supports world-wide initiatives with its branch club, North West Grampians.

“We sell mint lollies, Christmas cakes, cook barbecues at events, and give money to non-profit organisations, such as the Horsham Hospice, military museum, and emergency services,” she said.

“Then there’s Lions Clubs’ International Foundation that uses raised money for children’s cancer, children’s mobility, and Lions

The club has also committed to a green canopy tree-planting project near Horsham’s weir.

“But we’re not just about barbecues and charities,” Ms Maltry said.

“It’s more about health, wellbeing and friendship as well – we have a lot of get-togethers, which are good fun.”

People who are interested in learning more or joining the Green Park Lions Club can email green parklionsclub@gmail.com.

left, Phillip Seriff, Carolyn Maltry and Tricia De

ceremony

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Annual police remembrance services

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Fallen police officers will be honoured by their colleagues and communities at National Police Remembrance Day services on Monday.

Remembering officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, the day is also Blue Ribbon Foundation’s annual Blue Ribbon Day, which perpetuates the memory of the fallen through community projects.

Horsham’s Acting Inspector Matt Haughton said the day was important for both police and their communities.

“We pause once a year and remember those people who have died in the line of duty and while serving as Victorian police officers,” he said.

“We invite the public to come along to the ceremony as well – their support means a lot to us.”

Acting Inspector Haughton said police officers from across the state were deployed to the Porepunkah area to assist in the search for Desmond Freeman, who is wanted in connection to the shooting death of police officers

Neal Thompson and Vadim De WaartHottart in Porepunkah on August 26.

“We invite the public to come along to the ceremony as well – their support means a lot to us”

– Acting Inspector Matt Haughton

over there, assisting in co-ordinating the police units on the ground while the search was underway,” he said.

“Other members from here assisted with patrols around the area and so on.

“It was good to be able to go and assist, to give them the support that we were able to give.

“We’re still performing our policing business here as well, because policing doesn’t stop, but we are supplying assistance to our friends and colleagues in Porepunkah and Wangaratta where we can.”

Horsham

“That kind of incident rattles through the whole community. Not only Victoria Police, but the whole community.

“The community support we received at Horsham after that incident was just incredible. We had flowers,

“I landed there two days after it happened, and was there for just over a week with other members of the division,” he said.

brigade to celebrate 150 years

Horsham’s fire brigade will celebrate 150 years of service to its community in November, with a torchlight procession, competition championships, members’ dinner and community open day.

The brigade’s history committee will also launch a book to mark the occasion, commemorating its members, competition successes and its involvement in the community through both education and emergency response.

The brigade’s volunteers have responded to urgent community need, including the 2009 Black Saturday fire that razed 13 homes and burnt 2346 hectares, and are now part of the Fire Medical Response program with Ambulance Victoria in addition to fire calls.

Brigade captain Marc Ampt said he was proud to lead a brigade with such rich history.

“It’s a privilege to follow in the footsteps of so many inspiring leaders and members who have shaped this brigade,” he said.

“Being part of the Horsham and

wider Wimmera communities for 150 years is significant for our volunteers.

“Without the dedication of our members who bring a variety of skills and life experiences, we wouldn’t be in such a strong position today.”

Member and ex-captain John Davies is working with a dedicated group to preserve the brigade’s history.

He said the idea of a book was raised about 50 years ago.

“Two years ago I made a move to push forward, to try to have it ready for our 150th,” he said.

“We’ve been able to get some great information from members of the community, current members and a lot of ex-members.

“We have also found our original minute book, some receipts from 1880, and I have spent some time researching at the historical society.”

Mr Davies said the brigade had attended several significant fires, some within his living memory.

“My biggest fire was when we had just moved into the building in Hamilton Street from Firebrace Street, and

cards and other tributes coming across the counter, which was really nice and very much appreciated. We felt very supported through that time.

“But it was at a different level when we got to Wangaratta.

“The Wangaratta police station had flowers and other items at their door.

It was almost overwhelming to walk in there, to be honest.”

Acting Inspector Haughton said his division’s Horsham, Stawell and Ararat police officers were deployed as required and performed different roles.

“I was in the police operations centre

Horsham’s remembrance service will begin at 10am at Ss Michael and John’s Catholic Church, on the corner of McLachlan and Urquhart streets. Ararat’s service is at 11am at Holy Trinity Anglican Church in High Street.

Both services will be followed by refreshments.

on a Monday night one of our members walked out the back and saw flames coming out the roof of a warehouse past the rear of the station,” he said.

“He came back and said, ‘I think there’s a fire out there’, and I said ‘well, you’d better get in the truck and go, hadn’t you’.”

Mr Davies said the state offices in McLachlan Street, Johnsons in Plumpton Drive, Black Saturday and

the Noske flour mill were also significant.

“In 1935 we had the Noske Mill fire, which was the first flour mill in Australia that wasn’t a total loss,” he said.

“When they built that mill, they put some fire prevention stuff in place, which really did help.”

The brigade will celebrate its 150 years with a members’ dinner, for current and former members and their partners, on Saturday, November 15,

with the community open day at the fire station the following day. The torchlight procession will follow the competition championships on Saturday, November 29. Former members can register for the dinner, and people can find out more information about the celebrations by calling Horsham’s district office on 5362 1700.

UNITED: From left, Constable Beck Wangman, First Constable Lewis Gebert and Acting Inspector Matt Haughton in front of Horsham Police Station.

Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

HISTORY: John Davies is leading a group in compiling Horsham Urban Fire Brigade’s history for a book, which he hopes will be released during the brigade’s 150th celebrations. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

HRCC NEWS

Personal message from Mayor Cr Ian Ross

Some of you will already be aware that I have experienced some health issues during the past weeks.

Extensive medical testing has revealed that I have a tumour in my palate which extends to just beneath my brain.

It has been diagnosed as Adenoid Cystic Carcenoma.

The nature of my illness means that I will need to take a leave of absence – the precise duration of which is currently unknown.

I hope to return to council once my treatment is complete, with Cr Brian Klowss to undertake the role of Acting Mayor while I'm away.

As reluctant as I am to step away from the team, I couldn't be more confident about the direction HRCC are heading in.

The Councillor group, supported by the CEO and staff at Council will continue to build on the great things we've already achieved during a relatively short time together. This brings me to what I really want to say to you all.

I cannot adequately express just how much your support, love and prayers have meant to me during the last few weeks.

I have been truly overwhelmed by your messages and they will continue to uplift me during the next few months.

I also know that your generous support will be offered to the team that will be working hard while I am away.

Finally, I take great pride in being part of the wonderful Wimmera community.

I am repeatedly humbled by this community’s ability to come together.

Cr Ian Ross.

TENDERS AND RFQ

Q05-2026

OUTDOOR POOL FILTER MEDIA REPLACEMENT

Closes Friday 10 October

26-008

CONSTRUCTION OF SHARED BICYCLE PATH NATIMUK ROAD, HORSHAM

Closes Wednesday 8 October

26-009

WIMMERA LIBRARY 24 HOUR ACCESS PROJECT DESIGN AND INSTALLATION

Closes Monday 27 October

Q06-2026

SHADE REPLACEMENT AT TWO LOCATIONS

Closes Thursday 2 October

New citizens embrace life in Horsham at special ceremony

Eighteen people from nine different countries proudly became Australian citizens at a moving ceremony held at the Horsham Rural City Council on Wednesday. The group, which included individuals and families, officially pledged their commitment to Australia in front of friends, community members, and Council representatives.

The new citizens hailed from a wide range of nations including England, Nepal, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Poland, reflecting the growing cultural diversity of the Horsham region. Family groups stood side-by-side as they took their oaths, marking a significant chapter in their lives and a shared moment of pride.

Acting Mayor Brian Klowss said the ceremony was a touching reminder of Australia’s inclusive spirit. “Becoming a citizen is a deeply personal and meaningful moment. It’s about belonging, contributing, and embracing the values that unite us as Australians,” he said.

As part of Council’s long-standing tradition, each new citizen received a native plant — a symbolic gift representing new roots in the community and a growing future in Australia.

Council hosts around six citizenship ceremonies each year on behalf of the Australian Government.

Help speak for Natimuk

If you have an interest in recreation and sport, or accessibility for people with a disability, you may be a good fit to advise and work with Horsham Rural City Council on lifting Natimuk’s economic and social profile.

Applications are invited for two positions on the maximum 10-member Project Advisory Committee (PAC), which works with Council staff on key local issues such as business, economy and tourism; climate and sustainability.

Scan the QR code for more information and to register your interest.

STAY UP TO DATE

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

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

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

HAVE YOUR SAY

HOUSING STRATEGY FOR HORSHAM

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

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

Visit Engage Horsham to have your say. Engagement closes Tuesday 7 October.

COMMUNITY VISION AND COUNCIL PLAN

Council recently completed a first round of community engagement to inform a review of the 2041 Community Vision and development of a draft Council Plan 2025–2029, and round two starts now. View the updated draft with the QR code below.

Feedback closes 12noon, Monday 29 September.

COMMUNITY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLANNING SESSIONS

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

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

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

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

DRAFT FINANCIAL PLAN

This Financial Plan outlines projections for revenue, expenditure, and financial position to ensure financial sustainability.

Council is now seeking feedback from the community on the Financial Plan. You can view a draft version on Engage Horsham and provide feedback with a survey.

Feedback closes Tuesday 30 September.

DOMESTIC ANIMAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

Council is updating its Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) for 2026–2029. This plan guides how we manage dogs and cats across the municipality, with a focus on responsible pet ownership, community safety, and animal welfare.

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

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

• Saturday 4 October - 10am - 4pm

• Sunday 5 October - 10am - 4pm

• Saturday 18 October - 10am - 4pm

• Sunday 19 October - 10am - 4pm

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

Feedback closes Thursday 23 October.

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

Celebration of hospital milestone

Willaura Health Care and East Grampians Health Service

celebrated the 90th anniversary of the Willaura Hospital last week.

People gathered in the grounds of the hospital to celebrate the milestone.

EGHS board member Sybil Burmeister spoke at the lunch, acknowledging the associations many people in attendance had with the hospital.

“My family had the privilege of this with my dad in the last year of his life and we are extremely thankful for the care he received,” she said.

Ms Burmeister highlighted the history of the hospital, starting with the Willaura Progress Association seeking medical services for the town.

“In August 1908, Dr Sydney Wentworth Patterson, of the Carlton Children’s Hospital, wrote to the association advising that he would provide a practice extending from Glenthompson to Willaura, Wickliffe, Lake Bolac and Rossbridge, resulting in him often riding his horse up to 20 miles to attend to patients,” she said.

“Kelvin Private hospital, the first hospital in Willaura, was opened at 7 Commercial Street in March 1910.”

In 1920, Dr Cyril Checchi purchased Willaura Medical Practice and hospital – Dr Checchi had served in England’s medical division during the First World War and was looking for a practice where he could serve a community.

“When he arrived conditions were extremely primitive. Dr Checchi preformed his first operation at Willaura by kerosene lamp in a private home with only a midwife for assistance,” Ms Burmeister said.

“In the early days he was summoned

to a farm to assist a woman in labour. He sent an urgent plea for help but nobody came as the woman was unmarried.

“By the light of a kerosene lantern, through a long night he delivered twins, while simultaneously attending to the woman’s three other hungry children.”

Ms Burmeister said most of Dr Checchi’s house calls were made on a bicycle before graduating to a car – he carried a shovel for digging the car out of bogs and a saucepan in which to boil syringes and needles.

After 10 years, accountant William Hargreaves pointed out the hospital was costing Dr Checchi in the vicinity of 150 pounds per year to run.

A meeting of 50 residents committed themselves to an annual donation to offset the losses that had been incurred.

Mr Hargraves agreed to maintain the books, and the Victorian Bush Nursing Association was approached to take over operating the facility.

Local fundraising ensued to build the hospital, with Thomas and Ruth Millear, of Edgarley, donating 1000 pounds and James Millear donating the land, before the hospital was officially opened on August 22, 1935.

Dr Checchi described it as a magnificent effort to raise money.

“That was the one thing about the Willaura community – whenever they set their minds to something, they always achieved their goals,” he said at the time.

Dr Checchi often called in an old classmate, Dr Bill Hailes, and later on another great friend and famous surgeon, Sir Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop.

“Once Weary was called to assist in a fairly urgent matter and took it upon himself to hire a plane and fly to Willaura,” Ms Burmeister said.

“The aeroplane landed in a nearby paddock and taxied up to the hospi

tal.”

Dr Checchi delivered the first baby born at Willaura Bush Nursing Hospital, Ruth Salter on August 28, 1935. In 1938 the hospital was powered by electricity, receiving a reticulated water supply in 1949, before an additional six-bed nurses’ home was built in 1950.

“In 1959 Dr Checchi, who was now aged in his 60s, persuaded Dr Robin Handscombe to come from England to be part of the Willaura community,” Ms Burmeister said.

The largest, most modern extensions were opened in 1976 by former Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser’s wife Tamie, who grew up on Meringa – a farm near Willaura.

A limited home nursing service began in 1977, Meals-on-Wheels in 1981, and in 1986, Dr Checchi announced his retirement after almost 67 years of country practice. He was 94 years old.

Dr Handscombe completed his final rounds at Willaura in 1991, after 32 years of service.

Doctors from Ararat Medical Centre took over servicing Willaura hospital’s patients when Dr Handscombe retired, and continue today.

In 1992, a small cottage became the day-theatre offering allied health,

district nursing, community nurses, a diabetic educator, a dietitian and social worker, while in 1994, a contract for a 10-bed hostel, now Parkland House, was signed.

In 1995, the Willaura and District Hospital merged with East Grampians Health Service.

Ms Burmeister also acknowledged the years of work by the Willaura and District Hospital Ladies’ Auxiliary.

“Established in 1958, the auxiliary’s aim was solely a fundraising body, which worked towards improving the comfort of patients and residents, and providing additional finances for upgrading facilities and equipment,” she said.

“Over the years the funds were raised by garden parties, card parties, flower and baby shows, gymkhanas, lunches, fashion parades and street stalls.”

Ms Burmeister said the auxiliary disbanded in 1982 but reformed nine years later at the request of staff.

“Today the auxiliary continues its dedicated work towards raising funds for the Willaura facility with an incredible benefit,” she said.

Ms Burmeister said the EGHS board was committed to the redevelopment of the Willaura site and saw it as a valuable asset.

“We are currently waiting on funding to start the much-needed renovation of this wonderful facility and I encourage the current government not to delay any further the release of RIFT funds to start the redevelopment,” she said.

“The staff, the community and the board of East Grampians health will not rest until this is done.”

MEMORIES: Willaura Hospital nurses Jill Broderick, retired, and Tammy Day celebrate the hospital’s 90th birthday. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

A shared goal

The Wimmera Football Netball League’s biggest day of the year played out on Saturday as it should – with the focus on the games that people love.

Four football and seven netball grand finals attracted thousands of people to Anzac Park, Warracknabeal – creating a great community spectacle and a far-reaching regional gathering.

The Wimmera league finals were off to a rocky start with the A Grade netball elimination final scoring discrepancy and the spotlight fell firmly on the league’s board in regards to the decision that was made following that controversy.

The board has copped some flak during the finals series, resulting in the chairman immediately stepping down, and there’s a few issues still bubbling away.

Hopefully lessons can be learnt from what has transpired in the past month – and improvements can be made for the future.

Saturday’s grand final day, which takes a mountain of work to pull together, mostly went off without a hitch – albeit for a few scoreboard errors – while the senior awards night last week was to be applauded.

In plenty of post-grand final speeches, people made a point of thanking the league and the work the volunteer board members do, as well as the efforts of the paid staff.

There was plenty of love thrown their way, and a fitting recognition of their contribution to ensure the competitions go ahead week in, week out.

It is an unenviable task to sit on the board of a league – it’s highly likely that decisions made are always going to upset someone or some club.

When people take on the position of a board member it comes with a level of responsibility.

And with more and more rules and regulations in place – most determined by the governing bodies of AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria – that level of responsibility is only increasing.

Gone are the days that sitting on a committee or board means attending a few meetings and helping out a bit extra on game day.

EDITORIAL

By Lauren Henry

Country footy and netball has become a vastly different landscape than it was 20 years ago.

The level of money involved at a club level –growing each year as clubs compete against each other to pay players – requires a level of scrutiny that past administrators would never have dreamt about.

There is a lot more to running a league, or a football-netball club, than ever before and volunteers have often got their work cut out for them.

And while there is at least some level of support provided by paid staff and governing bodies, it may well come a time when the board positions are paid as well.

If clubs are prepared to fork out thousands of dollars on players, it could be time to explore the possibility of increasing their spend on getting the administration, governance and management of the league at the level now expected.

This may be years away from happening – if ever – but it does raise a good point about exactly who and what qualifications and expertise that all board members have.

Boards also need to have an agreed collective ethos around communication, transparency and accountability that will hold them in good stead in their dealings with clubs, stakeholders and the general public.

Learning from what other leagues across the state do well and listening to feedback is a good place to start when making improvements.

At the end of the day, everyone just wants the league to be the best it can be, so working toward that shared goal should be the focus.

BOWERS CHIROPRACTIC CENTRE

SOME HELPFUL TIPS FOR A SPRAINED ANKLE

What can Chiropractic do for a sprained ankle? Sprained ankles are a common sports injury and I think I practically majored in them! So here’s a few tips to help from the resident chiropractor!

1) Rest.Ice.Compression. Elevation. Wait 48hrs and reassess.

2) If there is any bruising there is most probably a ligament tear or worse a chipped bone. That may require X-ray.

3) See a chiropractor. “So how can a chiropractor help?” The chiropractor can assess the joint and let a person know how badly damaged it is. A chiropractor will also assess the rest of the spine. We can offer rehabilitation exercises and assist in recovery.

Why does Chiropractic help? In 20+yrs experience, an ankle sprain doesn’t just affect the ankle. As the song goes “The ankle bone’s connected to the knee bone, the knee bone’s connected to the hip bone “ etc. Rebalancing the whole body gives a much better result. It gets the brain to talk better to the body. Where here to help, Monday, Wednesday and Fridays. You can also book online at bowerschiropractic.com.au

Dr. Pauline Walsh B. Clinc Sci B.

App. Sci (Chiropractic), DACCP

GROWING TOGETHER: A new parents’ group is finding connections while learning about a range of baby-related issues from maternal child health nurse Emily O’Neill, pictured front left, as well as guest speakers from Grampians Health and emergency services. Horsham Rural City Council community services manager Mandi Stewart said the September-October group had babies aged between eight weeks and four months. “It’s a good way to build community and learn about key topics to support your parenting, but the best part is building connections and friendships, and understanding others may also be having similar experiences and are also up during the night,” she said. To find out more or to register, people can email mch.teamleader@hrcc.vic.gov. au.

Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Support for machete amnesty

More than 1360 machetes and dangerous knives were surrendered in the first two weeks of the government’s machete amnesty.

The weapons have been anonymously disposed of in purpose-made bins at 45 police stations across the state.

Horsham-based Acting Inspector Matt Haughton said

he was pleased the bin was being utilised by people in the community.

“We do have weapons offences here,” he said.

“So, it’s encouraging to see that we are getting community support and people are handing them in.”

A further 3400 machetes have been handed in by ma-

jor retailers since the amnesty began on September 1; it will conclude on November 30.

Since September 1 this year, owning, carrying, using, buying or selling a machete without a valid exemption or approval is an offence, with penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment or a fine of more than $47,000.

Richard, Penelope

Dean

New Uniting Church minister

Reverend Jacob Yang has journeyed far, from his birthplace of Seoul where he struggled with life’s meaning, to Horsham, where he is St Andrew’s Uniting Church’s new minister.

Rev Yang said as a young man, he fell into nihilism.

“I believed that life had no meaning, and I struggled deeply,” he said.

“Since I grew up in the church, I went and prayed and begged God to save me from that place of despair.

“While I was praying I had a mysterious experience – I realised I am deeply loved by God, and I wanted to help others who have difficulty in their lives.”

Rev Yang was ordained as a minister in the Presbyterian Church in Korea, and wanted to

further his studies, so moved from Korea to Melbourne in 1996.

He felt he could understand Australia better by living in a more rural area, so spent about four years in Mildura before moving to Horsham.

“I find rural life and small-city living very good, and very meaningful for me,” he said.

“And I want our church to walk together with the local community, which is why we have decided to open our church each Tuesday from noon until 2pm.

“People can come to pray, meditate, or simply enjoy the peace of the church.

“I hope our church becomes a spiritual resting place for people.”

ALL ABOUT SOUL: St Andrew’s Uniting Church Reverend Jacob Yang wants the Horsham church to become a spiritual resting place for the community.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

– Bronwyn Hastings

Marian students

action their ideas

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Students from Ararat’s Marian College last month took part in an Ideas2Life event, showcasing projects they developed to positively shape their community’s future.

Presented by Crazy Ideas College in partnership with Ararat Rural City Council, the event saw 15 year-eight and nine students from the college displaying information about their projects at individual stations with posters and photos, with attendees given a chance to talk with each team about their work.

Among the student-generated projects were an after-school space for teenagers to pursue their interests and build positive relationships; kits containing women’s hygiene products to distribute to women in need in the local community; and native Australian animal sculptures placed next to rubbish bins in local parks to reward people with native seed packets for properly disposing of their waste.

Year eight students Mia and Maya, who helped create the after-school space, said they had enjoyed the project and received support from local businesses.

“We hosted an event for the year sevens because we wanted to give them a safe space just to go and find a fun place to hang out together,” Mia said.

“We got two donations. We got a donation from ‘Woolies’ – a $100 voucher – and we got 90 fun buns donated from Baker’s Delight.

“Organising an event is harder than you think. It’s also fun and feels rewarding once you’ve actually hosted the event.”

Maya said the best part of the project was ‘everyone enjoying the event and the food’.

“It was fun to see everyone’s reactions to us doing an event for them,” she said.

Community partners attending the event – including Mayor Jo Armstrong, Central Grampians LLEN partnerships and pathways coordinator Benjamin Bailey-Webb and Elders finance broker Cheryl Rapson – offered students support and feedback on their projects.

Deputy Mayor Bob Sanders said the event was a continuation of a Social Innovators Program earlier this year, which saw more than 80 year eight and nine students from Ararat College, Marian College and Lake Bolac P-12 gather at Ararat’s Gordon Street Recreation Reserve for a two-day workshop centred on innovation, creativity and community impact.

“This event is a powerful reminder of the creativity, energy, and leadership that our young people bring to the table, not just for the future, but right now,” Cr Sanders said.

“They’re already active contributors to our community, and by investing in them, we are investing in the future of Ararat.”

Crazy Ideas College head of place partnerships Charlotte Kidd said the Ideas2Life event was ‘where young people move from ideas to action’.

“But that’s only part of the magic. They get to shape projects that strengthen their community and, in the process, discover their own place in it more clearly,” she said.

“What makes it so powerful is seeing young people’s deep care come to life, building stronger connections with each other, their community and their region.”

Hindmarsh rates correction

Hindmarsh Shire Council has reported a minor non-compliance with its 2025-26 rate cap.

Initial calculations suggest an additional $3949 will be collected in total across the entire rate base, which means, on average, the impact will be less than $1 per property during the financial year.

The rate cap limits the maximum amount a council can increase general rates and municipal charges. To apply this increase, the council uses valuations provided by the Valuer General.

Hindmarsh rates modelling for 2025-26 was based on an early set of valuations provided by the Valuer General, rather than the final valuations provided late in the budget-setting process.

The council has levied a total of $8.132-million in general rates, so while the council is noncompliant, the overall impact is minimal.

Council acknowledges the challenges faced by the community with the increase in State Government levies and cost-of-living pressures and is proactively recommending a way to correct the error. A report is being presented to the council today, requesting it endorse a propor-

tionate decrease in the total rates collected in 2026-2027. The correction would balance out the excess collected in 2025-2026.

Council will continue to work with the Essential Services Commission as part of the reporting process and review its processes around calculating its rate increases and implement additional safeguards to ensure the error is not repeated.

Hindmarsh Mayor Ron Ismay said that the council was taking the error in rate cap calculations seriously.

“Council will be prioritising correcting the error in 2026-27 and putting processes in place to ensure it doesn’t happen again,” he said.

“While these mistakes do happen in the sector, Hindmarsh holds itself to an incredibly high standard of transparency and fairness, and will work with the Essential Services Commission, staff and the community to do better.”

People who are experiencing financial difficulties can contact the council on 5391 4444, or email info@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au for information on available support, payment plans and options that can alleviate financial pressure.

SHOWCASE: Ararat Marian College students, from left, Tyler Batobalani; Zach Ford; Marli Scott; Akuol Kur; Ella Bulger; Mia Hanna and Maya Sanderson showcase Ideas2Life projects. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

I’ve visited Horsham several times recently including catching up with the Horsham Rural City Council and I commend them for the constructive, community-focussed approach they are taking to various issues.

I support Council withdrawing from Wimmera Southern Mallee Development. The democratically elected councillors have adopted the majority view of their communities, not the narrow investor perspective of WSMD. Council, and neighbouring councils, will now stand apart from WSMD and promote their own initiatives for the region.

Wimmera mining and energy proposals have been front-and-centre of this WSMD debate, and I brought The Nationals’ federal Shadow Minister for Resources, Senator Susan McDonald, to Rupanyup and Horsham this week to listen to community views and the mining companies about mineral sands projects at Dooen, Minyip, Toolondo and beyond.

Senator McDonald and I met Iluka Resources and I continued lobbying them – as I have the Bureau of Meteorology –for an improved or new weather station at Kanagulk. The former Douglas mine site hosts an ageing weather station. I am pleased to say a new installation is looking promising and I encourage all

Fighting for Mallee

the parties to come to a resolution, as locals and farmers tell me the Kanagulk installation is valuable.

Rehabilitation of former mineral sands mines, like Douglas, remains at the forefront of farmers’ and community concerns about the Wimmera mining proposals. The Nationals are promining however when it occurs in prime agricultural land in the Wimmera there are special considerations, including genuine respectful community engagement and investment, and the need for assurance that productivity can return to pre-mining levels. When mining occurs interstate on pastoral country the post-mining impacts are less pronounced as what we have seen at Douglas and Ouyen, and potentially at Dooen and other mineral sands prospects.

Senator McDonald and I reinforced to Donald Mineral Sands and Iluka – as I have to all mining proponents – that social licence is paramount, and we don’t want to see farmers driven off their farms. If mining proceeds, we must have harmonious co-existence and win-wins for the region.

It’s an honour to keep fighting for farming communities and working with those focussed on doing the same.

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New swimming lessons for teens

S

tawell Sports and Aquatic Centre has launched a new swimming lesson aimed at teenagers in response to national research showing an alarming number of Australian students falling below national benchmarks for swim safety.

Royal Life Saving Australia research shows more than 40 per cent of all children now leaving primary school have not achieved the national benchmarks for swimming and water safety education.

The benchmarks include being able to swim 50 metres and float for two minutes.

Northern Grampians Shire Mayor Karen Hyslop said a Royal Life Saving Australia National Drowning Report revealed the risk of drowning increased tenfold for youth and young adults aged 10 to 20 because of a clear decline in swimming, water safety, and lifesaving skills and an increase in risk-taking activities in this age group.

“In response, Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre is launching a new swimming lesson just for teenagers, which is the first time something like this has been available in the region,” she said.

“Some metropolitan schools have been doing this for a while, but teenage-specific classes are not commonly offered in a regional setting.

“Being safe around the water is vital and swim-

ming lessons are so important as they boost participants’ confidence, competency and overall safety in the water.

“We hope this new lesson focus will help bridge the gap and create a welcoming space for older students to work on their swimming skills.”

The new swimming classes are open to anyone aged 10 or older and will be at 3.30pm on Fridays during school terms.

“For now, the aquatic centre team is introducing the one class, however additional classes might be added to the timetable if there is an increased demand,” Cr Hyslop said.

“While the centre’s Learn to Swim program already caters for students who are 10 or older, these new lessons are for inexperienced swimmers or young people who have not been swimming in a while.

“They aim to break down any barriers to learning to swim and create a safe, comfortable environment for young people to learn alongside their peers.

“I encourage parents to consider taking up this great opportunity for their children. Now is a perfect time as we head towards the warmer months.”

People can call Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre on 5358 0550 or visit the centre for more information or to make a booking.

Lodge claims unofficial record

Officials at Grampians Health Horsham’s Kurrajong Lodge aged-care facility believe residents have set an unofficial state record, with three of them surpassing 100 years of age.

Kurrajong Lodge care community manager Ingrid Tudias said she knew of no other aged-care centres in Victoria where three residents had hit triple-digit birthdays.

“Until we are told any different, we will claim it as a record for the region and maybe even beyond that. Maybe for Victoria or even Australia,” she said.

“It would be rare to have one resident reach such a significant milestone, so three is extremely unique and I have always acknowledged the team members of Kurrajong Lodge for the wonderful care they provide.”

The potentially record-setting trio consists of Barbara Ellifson, Hazel Exell and Claire McKenry.

At 102, Ms Ellifson, a former nurse, is the lodge’s oldest resident.

She was admitted to Kurrajong Lodge at age 99 and regularly walks the corridors of the facility with her mobility aid.

The mother of three, grandmother of seven and great grandmother of 12 said she was unsure of the secret to her longevity, but suggested that

never smoking or drinking alcohol, living on home-grown farm produce for most of her life and her Scottish genes might all have contributed.

Ms Exell, a resident of Kurrajong Lodge for four years, celebrated her 100th birthday earlier this year and said she believed the secret to her longevity was keeping active.

A retired farmer, she said she was a hard worker and kept busy with jobs like milking cows. She also played tennis until she was 75 and said she could still run a mile if needed.

Ms Exell also has three children, 10 grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and one step-great grandchild.

The youngest of the trio, Ms McKenry turned 100 recently and has been at the facility for six years.

Another farmer, Ms McKenry also has three children with four grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

She said her secret to longevity was not to worry about things too much. She was also active in sports, playing tennis, cricket, hockey and volleyball.

All three centenarians are still active in the care community and said they enjoyed Kurrajong Lodge’s Meaningful Life activities.

CENTENARIANS: From left, Claire McKenry, Barbara Ellifson and Hazel Exell are enjoying life at Kurrajong Lodge.

Reflection of 50 years on the job

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

After notching a half century at East Grampians Health Service, outgoing director of support services Stuart Kerr last month commenced a well-earned retirement.

His only problem is that he is now unsure of what to do with himself.

“People have been asking me what I’m going to do in retirement and they say ‘you’ll be able to go off and do your hobbies’,” he said.

“The problem is, work is my hobby – it’s been my hobby for 50 years.”

Since walking through the health service’s doors for the first time on August 15, 1975, Mr Kerr has filled many roles.

“I started as a cleaner. In 1976 I got an apprenticeship in cookery and headed off doing that,” he said.

“I had a passion for food, so I wanted to get more training. I took myself off to a restaurant in Ballarat and worked there on weekends while still working at the hospital.

“I met some local doctors in Ararat who got me involved with wine and food societies and I started catering.”

Mr Kerr said his role at East Grampians Health Service, EGHS, changed ‘dramatically’ when he became the manager of catering services and, later, the environmental and maintenance departments.

finalised before leaving,” Mr Bush said.

“I enjoyed Stuart’s candid approach and the way that he went about things.

“I had plenty of ideas for work and improvements that needed to be made.

“With Stuart, I found someone who shared the vision of having outstanding facilities that replicate private hospitals, and in some cases, flash hotels.

“Just because we’re a public health service doesn’t mean we present looking dirty and poorly maintained.”

Mr Kerr admitted it would be difficult to leave EGHS after five decades.

“There have been long hours, weekend work and times when you get back late at night, but you could see the benefit to the community with the health service that we’ve got today,” he said.

“My retirement will probably be about travel and giving some time back to my family. I’ve got five grandchildren.

“I’m involved in the Ararat branch of the Blue Ribbon Foundation and I also joined Ararat Legacy in 2002, so that will keep me busy.

“It’s a big portfolio, but all the departments work very well together,” he said.

“The auxiliaries, resident-support groups and staff have been amazing.

“They’ve motivated me to change and improve our services to have a

In 2011 he became director of support services, adding projects, building and infrastructure to his growing list of responsibilities.

better outcome for patients. I love the organisation. I’ve had fantastic support all the way through.

“The executive team has been a fantastic group of people to work with and has given me that strength to go away and implement things and change things.”

Mr Kerr said he had worked under

six chief executives during his time at EGHS, each of whom brought their own strengths to the role.

The current chief executive, Nick Bush, paid tribute to Mr Kerr before his retirement.

“The past six months have seen him in career-best form. He’s been pushing hard to get some of his key priorities

“I’m struggling with it a little bit. I said I’d probably come back in the day after I retired just for a little bit.

“I don’t like leaving things unfinished, but in this role projects keep going on.

“I’ve told them I’m only a phone call away.”

New board chair ready to build on strong foundations

New East Grampians Health Service board chair Cameron Evans is looking forward to building on the strong foundation of the current health service system.

Mr Evans said he would like to focus on strengthening partnerships across the region, supporting the areas workforce and continuing the strong education focus.

“For me, it’s about ensuring that East Grampians Health Service continues to be a trusted, responsive and innovative health service,” he said.

Mr Evans was elected as East Grampians Health Service, EGHS, board chair at the August board meeting, following the retirement of Ken Weldin after three years of service as board chair and four years as board director.

Mr Evans thanked Mr Weldin for his ‘strong leadership and dedication’.

“With a strong strategic focus, Mr Weldin guided the health service through a turbulent period when

mergers were being promoted,” Mr Evans said.

“He played a significant role in consultations, consistently advocating for the preservation of East Grampians Health Service’s identity.

“Mr Weldin’s contributions cannot be overstated in achieving the outcome that mergers did not proceed.”

The transition to Mr Evans as chair marks an important opportunity for EGHS to embrace and help shape the outcomes of the newly formed Grampians Local Health Service Network, GLHSN.

As a member of the GLHSN Chairs Committee, Mr Evans, together with representatives from the seven other health services, are working to strengthen collaboration from Beaufort to the South Australian border, while ensuring each service maintained its individual identity.

“Importantly, it’s about enabling every board director to contribute ef-

fectively, while keeping the focus on achieving the best possible health outcome for the community,” he said. Being born and raised in Ararat and having past family members who have

“Importantly, it’s about enabling every board director to contribute effectively, while keeping the focus on achieving the best possible health outcome for the community”

– Cameron Evans, left

been mayor of the town, as well as a background in governance, business and technology, Mr Evans wanted to give back by supporting an organisation that he believed touched many lives locally.

“I want the community to know that EGHS belongs to them,” he said.

Mr Evans spoke about how his role and the role of the board was to ensure that every decision they made consistently prioritised the health outcomes of patients, families, and the community.

“Meeting the community’s needs to-

day while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow,” he said.

Mr Evans joined the EGHS board in 2021 and has served as vice chair of the board, chair of the clinical consultative committee, as well as a member of various sub-committees, and a trustee of the Building for the Future Foundation.

With 25 years’ experience in the technology, telecommunications, and business sectors, he currently owns two businesses: AMA Fleet, specialising in telematics and vehicle technology; and AMA ICT, which provides information and cyber security services to small and medium-sized enterprises.

Mr Evans has two adult children Mackense and Cooper, and enjoys swimming, running and cycling and supporting Ararat Football Netball Club.

– Olivia Watson

MEMORIES: Stuart Kerr has retired after 50 years at East Grampians Health Service. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Barley Banquet

‘Every response matters’

F

urther emergency-management planning workshops are being hosted across the Ararat municipality in an effort to be better prepared.

Due to popular demand, Ararat Rural City Council organised two additional workshops, facilitated by emergencymanagement specialist group The Six C’s.

The first was at Elmhurst Mechanics Institute on September 15 with a second at Pomonal on October 8.

Deputy Mayor Bob Sanders said the workshops focused on developing tailored strategies that addressed local risks while drawing on the knowledge, skills and experience of community members.

He said residents had found the

workshops a great way to identify strengths and assets, strengthen their emergency preparedness and responses, and enhance recovery capabilities for future emergencies.

“These workshops are about locals leading the way,” he said.

“By bringing our knowledge together, we create stronger, more practical plans that ensure our communities are ready to face challenges and recover quickly.”

In a related move, the council is also inviting Willaura residents to participate in a community questionnaire focused on improving emergencymanagement preparedness.

Council chief executive Tim Harrison said a workshop initially planned for Willaura had been delayed by the town’s fire-recovery process, but the

questionnaire would give the council information about residents’ thoughts and ideas around emergency preparedness.

Dr Harrison said the council understood the importance of seeking local feedback to enhance decision making before, during and after emergencies such as fires, floods, or biosecurity events.

“As a council, we genuinely believe in working together with our communities to deliver practical, meaningful change,” he said.

“Every response matters, and together, we can build more robust frameworks for emergency preparedness.

“I encourage all Willaura residents to share their insights.”

Dr Harrison said the questionnaire welcomed respondents’ thoughts on

past experiences, areas for improvement, expectations for community resilience and personal preparedness.

He said the council was committed to ensuring everyone had a voice in shaping future emergency-management strategies, with Willaura’s recent recovery from fires highlighting a need for ongoing discussion and reflection.

The Pomonal workshop will be on Wednesday, October 8 from 6.30pm to 9.30pm at Pomonal Community Hall.

A free dinner will be provided at each session. For catering purposes, people should register via forms. office.com/r/RfFvfSGuex or call the council on 5355 0200.

Willaura residents can complete the council questionnaire via forms.office. com/r/A3BTRV2rBB.

New citizens embrace life in Horsham

Eighteen people from nine different countries became Australian citizens at a ceremony at Horsham Rural City Council last week.

The group, which included individuals and families, officially pledged their commitment to Australia in front of friends, community members, and council representatives.

The new citizens hailed from a wide range of nations including England, Nepal, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Poland, reflecting the growing

cultural diversity of the Horsham region. Family groups stood side-byside as they took their oaths, marking a significant chapter in their lives and a shared moment of pride.

Acting Mayor Brian Klowss said the ceremony was a touching reminder of Australia’s inclusive spirit.

“Becoming a citizen is a deeply personal and meaningful moment,” he said.

“It’s about belonging, contributing, and embracing the values that unite

us as Australians.” As part of council’s long-standing tradition, each new citizen received a native plant – a symbolic gift representing new roots in the community and a growing future in Australia.

“These events are a highlight for our council,” Cr Klowss said.

“It’s a celebration not just for the individuals involved, but for our whole region.

“Each new citizen adds depth to Horsham’s community and brings

new energy, stories and experiences to our community.”

Horsham Rural City Council hosts about six citizenship ceremonies each year on behalf of the Federal Government.

“Welcoming new citizens is one of the great privileges of local government,” Cr Klowss said.

“It’s always a joy to see people from all walks of life choosing to call Horsham home — and helping shape its future.”

Historical book launch

A book outlining the origins of many Wimmera families has been published in Adelaide.

‘The Other Kavels’ tells the story of the first Prussian religious refugees who emigrated to Australia in 1838, led by Pastor August Kavel.

The story is told of the persecution of the Old Lutherans in Prussia who refused to join the king’s union church, the difficulties of gaining permission and funding to emigrate, and the challenges of establishing themselves and their church in the infant colony of South Australia.

When the Wimmera and Mallee opened up for closer settlement from the 1870s, many of these early emigrants or their adult children trekked across the border, with names such as Bothe, Petras, Schilling, Schulz, Hoffmann, Schubert and many others, who are well known across the region.

A document from 1838 reveals for the first time the signatures of many of these early emigrants.

Author and retired teacher John Schubert grew up in Warracknabeal and is a descendant of Pastor Kavel’s sister, whose husband August Fiedler was Kavel’s right-hand man in Prussia and South Australia, and who pioneered the Barossa Valley wine industry.

Books can be obtained from Friends of Lutheran Archives for $35 plus postage, by emailing your name and postal details to fola@lca.org.au. Books will be posted and an invoice emailed. All proceeds will go to the work of Lutheran Archives.

The book will be launched in Tanunda, South Australia, on October 25.

Smile challenge

The Smile Ripple challenge will launch on World Smile Day, October 3, so people can share the joy of a smile.

Smile Ripple founder and speaker on the power of human connection, Horsham’s Sally Pymer, said science showed a single smile lowers stress, releasing feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin.

“And it is wonderfully contagious,” she said.

“When we share those moments with each other, we create a ripple effect of joy, trust and belonging that travels further than we ever realised.”

The challenge invites participants to contribute something that made them smile each day for 28 days.

Participants can share a short video, post or photo in a dedicated online community.

For more information people can search Smile Ripple on Facebook.

WELCOME: Horsham Rural City Council welcomed people hailing from nations including England, Nepal, Malaysia, the Philippines and Poland, at a citizenship ceremony last week.

Time to shine

Murtoa is preparing to shine with dazzling and unique event experiences to enjoy during its Big Weekend, from Friday, October 3 to Sunday, October 5, starting with the ever-popular Murtoa Agricultural and Pastoral Show.

A day of fun for the whole family, children aged 16 and younger are invited with free entry, with a vast selection of exciting activities to enjoy.

Back by popular demand, RWE Murtoa Lights will stun visitors with a creative and interactive lighting trail at Rabl Park.

Free to the public, the whole family can enjoy this evening, which includes amazing lighting installations by artist and lighting designers, Transience’s Dave Jones and Outlook Communication, assisted by members of the Murtoa community.

A unique lighting installation created by artist/community workshops will provide an illuminating layer to the lighting trail.

A special community project, Gallery of Stars, has enabled members of the Murtoa community, of all ages, to decorate their own special star. The stars will be unveiled as a feature of the light trail.

A musical layer will add to the experience, with music performances on Murtoa’s community stage, including local talented band, Johnny Thunder and the Lightnings.

The morning of Saturday, October 4 includes the Murtoa Lake Market with many varied stalls and food options to enjoy at Lake Marma.

In nearby McDonald Street, people can admire a large selection of cars and motorbikes at the Shannon’s Show ‘n’ Shine, while enjoying Murtoa’s cafes and businesses and various street displays.

Afterwards, the Murtoa Cup Race

Day will provide a captivating day of entertainment for all ages.

The popular art exhibition and sale has returned to the event program, with quality art on display from local and far afield artists. At the Uniting Church Hall on the Saturday and the Sunday, artwork is for sale and Devonshire Tea is available.

In addition, a silent auction of a special locally-themed painting donated by artist Peter Hill, will be auctioned at the art exhibition.

For the younger generation, the Murtoa Lions Club under-18 disco will be at Murtoa Mechanics Hall on Saturday evening. The night will provide ‘glowing’ fun with UV lighting effects and entertainment by live DJ, Audio Oasis.

For the little ones, the hit film ‘Sing’ will be screened in the hall’s supper room in the earlier stages of the evening.

Following on Sunday, there will be a vibrant colour run around Lake Marma, and an Ecumenical Service at the hall supper room.

People can explore Murtoa’s past with unique experiences of the Wimmera Inland Freezing Works Historical Engine two-day rally, national heritage-listed Stick Shed, and Murtoa Museum Precinct – including a pop-up photography exhibition.

Weekend passes are available to purchase for $25, giving people unlimited weekend entry to the spectacular features and discounted entry to the Murtoa Cup Race Day. For more information, people can visit www.murtoabigweekend.com.au

Geoff Peltz at Dunmunkle Sumpoilers at Murtoa’s Big Weekend.

Picture: Paul Carracher

Free events to celebrate seniors

BY OLIVIA WATSON

Seniors across Horsham municipility can look forward to a celebration of positive ageing during October with the Victorian Seniors Festival 2025.

Horsham community groups will be among those across the state to host free activities.

Whether people want to catch up with some long-lasting friends, try something new, or bask in the company of others, the festival has plenty to offer.

The events are spread across different venues, with five community groups successful in applying for a Horsham Rural City Council grant of up to $300 to run their events.

Council Acting Mayor Brian Klowss said the council was delighted to give grants to community groups so they could showcase the important role they played within the community.

“This is a great opportunity for our seniors to connect, create and celebrate,” he said.

The festivities begin with an afternoon tea hosted by Horsham and District U3A, the region’s biggest host of activities for retirees and

the semi-retired. A highlight for the month will be a Seniors Country Concert, presented by Horsham Rural City Council, who received State Government funding for the concert.

Free events include: Wednesday, October 8, afternoon tea from 1pm to 4pm at Horsham and District U3A; Friday, October 10, ‘High Tea for Seniors’ at Horsham Neighbourhood House, 13-15 Robin Street, from 10am to noon; Sunday, October 12, Seniors Month Open Day at Horsham Historical Society, 33-35 Pynsent Street, from 1.30pm to 4.30pm; Wednesday, October 15, Riverside Walk leaving from Horsham Angling Club carpark, Dixon Drive, 8.50am for a 9am walk; Monday, October 20, Seniors Country Concert at Horsham Lutheran Church Hall, 22 McPherson Street, from 1.30pm to 2.30pm; Friday, October 24, Come and Try Table Tennis, Horsham Table Tennis Association, 11 Harriett Street, from 9am until noon.

For more information, people can visit Horsham Rural City Council’s website, www.hrcc. vic.gov.au.

Muster dogs on show for festival

A muster dogs showcase will begin West Wimmera Shire Council’s series of free community events for this year’s Victorian Seniors Festival celebrations

At Kaniva Recreation Reserve on October 9 from 10.30am, the showcase will feature guest speakers Helen McDonald, Jack Kennedy, Kim Dodson and Rob Tuncks from the hit ABC series Muster Dogs.

They will share stories from the show, talk about their experiences working with dogs, and reflect on the strong bonds formed with their canine partners.

After lunch, each guest will take part in a live sheep dog trial, showcasing their dogs’ impressive herding skills.

Council chief executive David Bezuidenhout said it was an all-ages event, not just for seniors.

“Bringing the Muster Dogs team to West Wimmera is an exciting drawcard,” he said. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, including coffee, hot food, sandwiches and sweets, and official Muster Dogs merchandise will also be available.

Opportunities for learning, discovering

Ararat Rural City Council will participate in the 2025 Victorian Seniors Festival with a month of opportunities for learning, discovering and celebrating in October.

The festival offers an array of free and affordable events for Victorian Seniors Card holders, from guided tours of JWard and Narrapumelap Homestead, to musical tributes at Ararat Town Hall, and community favourites like the ‘Remember When’ fashion event at Langi Morgala Museum.

Mayor Jo Armstrong said among the highlights were chances to discover the stories behind Ararat’s Old Gaol and lunatic asylum; explore Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre; enjoy toe-tapping performances by Melissa Langton, Wendy Stapleton and Rodney Vincent; and experience the sounds of Small Town Romance, powerful blues from Geoff Achison and the Souldiggers, and Motor City Sounds.

A full program of events is available to view

online at ararat.vic.gov.au/events, or people can pick up a copy from the council’s municipal offices.

Booking is essential for most events, with free admission to select performances and discounted tickets available for concession card holders. People can secure a spot by booking online at seniors online.vic.gov.au/festival or ararat townhall.com.au, or contact the Ararat and Grampians Visitor Information Centre for assistance by calling 1800 657 158 or visiting 82 Vincent Street, Ararat.

“The seniors festival is a special time for our community. It’s an invitation for everyone to come together, share stories old and new, and celebrate the many contributions seniors make to Ararat,” Cr Armstrong said.

“There are so many ways to get involved, and I hope you find something that makes your October memorable. I look forward to joining residents and visitors at these wonderful events.”

SPECIAL GUEST: Rob Tuncks from the hit ABC series Muster Dogs will share stories from the show in Kaniva next month.

Community Newsletter

Melbourne Cup comes to Warracknabeal

Our Yarriambiack Lodge and Hopetoun residents enjoyed a very special and unique experience when the Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour made a stop at the Lodge.

Bringing along the coveted Melbourne Cup, our residents were allowed to hold it, an honour that often Melbourne people don’t even get.

Sharing a little of the cup history, renowned “Keeper of the Cup” Joe McGrath, told how the 18karat cup takes 250 hours to make.

Handing the floor over to Bart Cummings’ stables track rider Joe Agresta, who has been with the Cummings stables for 34 years, Joe shared how he came to work for Bart and that he believes the cup is an Australian icon, and one he enjoys bringing out to communities. Later heading into the barn area, our residents were thrilled to meet two Cup winning horses, 2015 winner Prince of Penzance, who many will remember was ridden by Australia’s first female Cup winning jockey Michelle Payne, and 2020 winner Twilight Payment.

Har

vest welcomed

In a gorgeous celebration of embracing diversity, some of our Indian team members celebrated the harvest festival by performing a special dance in Yarriambiack Lodge on September 5. Don't the dancers look absolutely beautiful in their saris?

tions

Fay on completing the Diploma of Leisure and Health.

Congratula

to Leisure and Lifestyle Team Leader Bron McIntyre (left) and L&L Assistant Raelene

SHOWCASE: Hundreds of dancers are gracing the Ararat Town Hall stage for the 68th Annual Ararat Eisteddfod. The nine-day showcase, which started on Friday last week, attracts entries from across the state. The Weekly Advertiser captured some of the action yesterday. Pictured are, clockwise from above: Bella Billing of Colac; Willow Roberts of Timboon; Bonnie Moon of Warrnambool; Kiarah Tamblyn of Woodvale; Swiss Strickland of Melbourne; and Meg Anderson of Warrnambool.

Supporting Our Community

Volleyball Horsham

Volleyball Horsham will be celebrating its 50th anniversary next year. A centrepiece of this celebration will be a commemorative book highlighting the top 50 male and female players over the past 50 years, 50 memorable victories involving Volleyball Horsham members and 50 iconic photos.

Thank you to West Side Horsham, who have contributed to the costs associated with the printing of the 50th Anniversary booklet.

Beyond Inclusive

Beyond Inclusive, a disability support services business, supports Wimmera disability participants to attend the Disability Tri-State games each November. The Disability Tri-State games offers people with a disability a chance to compete against their peers in indoor sports, swimming, track and field athletics, and team sports. Hosted by various venues across Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales, the 2025 Disability Tri-State games will be in Portland, Victoria. Beyond Inclusive supports disability participants for the entire week, staying with the participants and helping them to attend and compete in the games. The grant Beyond Inclusive has kindly received from West Side Horsham will go towards a new marquee for our team, Horsham Heat, to use when competing in the swimming and track and field athletic days. Beyond Inclusive is so grateful to Kim and the team at West Side Horsham for their support and cannot wait to have the new marquee with ‘our thanks to West Side Horsham’ proudly shown on it.

West Side Horsham: Proud to be supporting our locals

West Side Horsham proudly sponsors local community groups through it’s Community Grant Program. Scan here to find out more

11 & 12, 2025 @

Horsham Botanic Gardens

Featuring a vibrant display of blooming flowers, plants and outdoor living displays.

Plus, learn more about living a sustainable lifestyle, enjoy the delicious food and get involved in activities.

The festival also includes sustainable lifestyle focused exhibits, demonstrations, and presentations, promoting eco-friendly and sustainable gardening practices. FREE ENTRY FOR CHILDREN ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT

special thanks to our sponsors

Committed to deliver care

Insights from an evaluation of a Grampians Health-run initiative designed to improve access to specialist healthcare for people living in residential aged care could see the program spread nationally.

Researchers this month launched an evaluation of the Grampians Residential In Reach, RIR, program – a nurseled, telehealth-enabled service operating from Grampians Health Ballarat from 7.30am to 7.30pm, seven days a week.

The service, which commenced in May, accepts referrals from Grampians-region aged-care staff, GPs and health services, as well as from the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, VVED.

It was funded through the 2023-24 Victorian state budget and is delivered by eight health services across the Grampians region.

Western Alliance – a regional Research Translation Centre accredited by the National Health and Medical Research Council, NHMRC – and the Grampians Region Health Service Partnership, GRHSP, will conduct a 14-month evaluation of the program in partnership with research group DELIVER.

DELIVER is a cross-sector partnership funded through the Federal Government’s Medical Research Future Fund, MRFF.

DELIVER program director Kate Huggins said the research team was investigating evidence-based solutions to support clinical care delivered at or closer to home for older adults, with an aim of improving community health and wellbeing through evidence-based and research-informed

Road project back on track

Ararat Rural City Council has recommenced its Mount William Road upgrade project after a series of delays.

The $6.25-million infrastructure project aims to seal and improve the major transport route for local farmers, residents and visitors, and involves reconstructing and widening six kilometres of Mount William Road.

Chief executive Tim Harrison said Mount William Road was a key route for agricultural freight heading to the Lakaput bulk grain storage facility.

He said the upgrades would enhance road safety, reduce travel times and reduce dust impacts on nearby crops by widening the sealed road surface. The project is funded jointly by the Federal Government’s Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program and the council’s own contribution.

Dr Harrison said the project works focused on reconstruction and stabilising the road, and included new road base layers, drainage improvements, resurfacing and updated signage.

“Restarting this important project will deliver lasting benefits for our farming community and all road users,” he said.

healthcare. She said the evaluation would use a novel trial design and was the first of its kind in Australia to assess a region-wide residential in-reach model in a rural setting.

“This trial grew from a shared commitment to research for better healthcare closer to home,” she said.

“The health services wanted to make sure their new service model could be properly evaluated not only to demonstrate its effectiveness, but to generate the evidence needed to guide future funding decisions.

“We worked together from the start, designing the research alongside the service so it truly reflects rural healthcare needs and can be more rapidly embedded into practice to support lasting change.”

Grampians Health chief executive Dale Fraser said the RIR program aimed to promote continuity of care and minimise disruption for agedcare residents by reducing the need for emergency department visits and hospital admissions.

Mr Fraser said the evaluation would

measure clinical effectiveness, hospital avoidance, staff and resident experience, and system-level costefficiency – providing insights about its potential to scale up across Victoria and Australia.

“This is a true collaboration between health services, universities, and aged care providers,” he said.

“It reflects the strength of our regional partnerships and our shared commitment to delivering better care, closer to home, for older people in our communities.”

“We acknowledge the frustration caused by delays but remain committed to seeing these works through with quality and efficiency. This road upgrade strengthens local supply chains and supports the broader economy.”

Dr Harrison thanked the community for its patience and co-operation during the project’s earlier challenges and encouraged motorists to stay alert to construction activity and traffic changes.

For further information on the project and its progress, people can visit www.ararat.vic.gov.au.

IMPROVING ACCESS: Representatives of the DELIVER Research Team, back from left, Sue Leibling, Grampians Health; Dr Debbie Pu, Monash University; Jade Odgers, Grampians Health; Stuart Squire, Grampians Local Health Service Network; Dr Kate Huggins, Deakin University; Narelle Ryan, Grampians Local Health Service Network; and Ingrid Tudias, Grampians Health Horsham; and front, from left, Nomvelo Thebe, Grampians Health; David, resident, Grampians Health Ballarat; and Dr Mark Yates, Grampians Health and Deakin University.

Councils drive safety projects

Projects across the Wimmera, Grampians and southern-Mallee regions are set to share in $210-million of State Government funding through its Safe Local Roads and Streets program.

Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne last week announced councils would receive money to develop, design and deliver safety upgrades on local roads, intersections and precincts, with more than 200 projects awarded up to $2-million each.

Ms Horne said the funding would allow councils to deliver upgrades aimed at improving safety on local roads, including pedestrian crossing and intersection upgrades, as well as speed-calming measures.

“We’ve funded more than 200 projects to help local councils to deliver safer streets where local communities need them most,” she said.

Transport Accident Commission, TAC, chief executive Tracey Slatter praised the announcement.

“We know local governments are deeply committed to making their local roads safer, and this program is providing the muchneeded investment needed to help councils prevent crashes and save lives in their local communities,” she said.

Projects funded in municipalities across the region include–

Horsham Rural City Council: Three Bridges Road, Horsham, speed reduction, curve treatments; Bennett Road, Horsham, shared user path; O’Callaghans Parade, Horsham, roundabouts, shared user path, pedestrian refuge, safety improvements; Albert Street, Bowden Street and Railway Avenue, Horsham, raised priority crossing, local-area traf-

fic management; Natimuk Road, Horsham, on-road bicycle lane, speed limit reduction. Ararat Rural City Council: Queen Street and Moore Street, Ararat, raised roundabout; Vincent Street and Alexandra Avenue, Ararat, raised intersection, raised priority crossing; View Point Street and High Street, Ararat, splitter islands, speed cushions; Moore Street and Princes Street, Ararat, raised priority crossings; Ingor Street and King Street, Ararat, raised priority crossings; View Point Street, Tobin Street and Taylor Street, Ararat, raised priority crossing.

Northern Grampians Shire Council: Barnes Street, Clifton Avenue and Frayne Street, Stawell, roundabout, raised priority crossing; Ligar Street, Stawell, roundabouts; Millett Street and Kings Avenue, St Arnaud, raised intersection, raised priority crossings. West Wimmera Shire Council: Lake Street, Edenhope, raised priority crossing, speed limit reduction; Apsley-Natimuk Road and Patyah-Bringalbert North Road, Bringalbert, Y-intersection reconfiguration, speed limit reduction, safety improvements; Melbourne to Adelaide railway corridor, speed limit reduction, railway crossing improvements; Commercial Street, Kaniva, raised priority crossings.

Hindmarsh Shire Council: Rainbow-Nhill Road and Kruger Road, Rainbow, Y-intersection realignment and speed limit reduction; Rainbow-Nhill Road and Solly Road, Rainbow, Y-intersection realignment; Whitehead Avenue, Nhill, raised priority crossings. People can view more information on the Safe Local Roads and Streets program at transport.vic.gov.au/news-and-resources/ projects/safe-local-roads-and-streets-program.

SETTING NEW STANDARD: Financial Literacy Australia

announced a state finalist in Telstra’s Best of

Growing business a state finalist

Financial Literacy Australia, a social enterprise delivering Australia’s first financial literacy and life-skills program, EdTech/ SaaS, for people with disability, has been named a state finalist in this year’s Telstra Best of Business Awards.

Selected from more than 20,000 nominations nationwide, the company was founded in Horsham last year by social entrepreneur Daniel Ross, a former financial counsellor.

Mr Ross said the business was created to address a clear gap – people with disability were missing out on practical, accessible financial education.

“Financial Literacy Australia’s program blends gamification, interactive lessons, text-to-speech

tools and was co-designed with people who have lived experience of disability, ensuring every module is engaging and relevant,” he said.

“This recognition is not just about our business – it’s about proving that people with disability across Australia deserve financial education that truly works for them, in a location that they choose.

“To be named a finalist so early in our journey shows what’s possible when a business is built on purpose, persistence and community.”

In May, the business was recognised on the world stage, taking out first place in the 2025 Money Awareness and Inclusion Awards Best Fintech/AI – For-

Profit from more than 200 entries across 45 countries.

“In July, we became a verified social enterprise, pledging more than 50 per cent of profits back into our mission of reducing financial abuse and building independence,” Mr Ross said.

“To be announced a state finalist in the Telstra Best of Business Awards, highlights the pioneering role FLA is playing in setting a new standard for inclusive financial education in Australia.”

Telstra’s Best of Business Awards celebrate small and medium businesses making a positive impact across Australia, recognising excellence in growth, innovation, community building and leadership.

founder Daniel Ross is thrilled to be

Business Awards. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Back in your hands...

You may be one of many Australians who make an interest-free loan to the Federal Government every year.

That’s because, when you receive a tax refund, you’re not getting free money. All that’s happening is that cash, which is rightfully yours, is being returned, somewhat late.

So it makes sense to make it work as hard as possible once it’s back in your hands.

Following are eight financially savvy ways to use your tax refund.

• Pay down any high-interest debt – If you have any high-interest debt, especially credit card debt, where you may be paying 20 per cent per annum or more – using your tax refund to reduce the amount you owe should be your first priority. Getting rid of debt will free you to start investing in your future.

• Invest in yourself – There’s no better investment than your own education. Improve your employability and earning power by adding to your skills and qualifications via relevant professional courses. You may even be able to increase next year’s tax refund by claiming a self-education deduction for the cost of a course, which makes you perform better in your current job.

• Add to your super – Your employer makes mandatory super contributions on your behalf, but that doesn’t stop you making your own additions to your super balance. You could ask your employer to make tax-effective super deductions from your pre-tax income, using your tax refund to offset your reduced take-home wages. If you are a low to middle income earner, you could even score a $500 gift in the form of a super cocontribution from the government.

FINANCE focus

• Set up an emergency fund – Don’t sit on your tax refund in lazy cash that isn’t earning interest. If you put it in a high-interest savings account it will still be readily accessible to cover any emergency expenses that may occur, such as unexpected medical bills or car repairs.

• Reduce your mortgage interest – Better still, if you have a mortgage with an offset account, park your tax refund in the offset account until you need it. The interest you will save will nearly always be far greater than any interest you could earn in a savings account. Or, if you’re feeling financially confident about the future, use $1200 of your refund every year to make extra mortgage repayments. An extra repayment of $100 every month on a 25-year loan of $500,000 at six per cent oer annum could save you more than $36,000 in interest during the loan’s term.

• Pay annual bills upfront – If paid in a lump sum upfront, large annual bills, such as property, car and health insurance premiums, can cost significantly less than 12 monthly repayments. This is because the billing company will add fees to monthly repayment amounts to cover the loss of the use of your cash, and the greater likelihood that you may bail during the year if you haven’t already paid in full.

• Aim to spend time in the market – Using your tax refund to start or add to an investment portfolio is extremely smart. Thanks to ETFs and managed funds, it is easy to squirrel away a $1000 tax refund and leave it to turn into about $3,900 after 20 years – assuming an annual growth rate of seven per cent. If you did this with $1000 from your tax refund every year, you’d have a very satisfying $43,865 after 20 years.

• You can still have some fun – All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, and your tax refund equally boring. So by all means spend some of it on adding a bit of excitement to your life. Just don’t totally deprive yourself of the long-term enjoyment of using money you didn’t know you had to build a solid financial future.

Your financial adviser has lots more ideas. Anyone looking for shrewd approaches to using their tax refund should consult a financial adviser.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Making the best of a situation

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

The benefits and processes in early weaning, feedlotting, nutrition, finance and the future of the market were outlined by speakers at a sold-out AWN Wimmera event.

AWN Wimmera area manager Michael Phelan said efficient feeding of livestock was front of mind, owing to the increased appetite for feedlotting lambs as another source of income for farming enterprises, as well as the early weaning of lambs to create better outcomes for both lambs and breeding ewes.

“Large parts of western Victoria have been operating in extremely suboptimal weather conditions and a very high-cost environment for quite some time now, which is really squeezing margins,” he said.

“Therefore, there is a huge uptick in interest in learning about the most efficient ways to feed stock and adopting strategies that will get lambs to a place where they are a marketable product as quickly as possible.

“The weather will do what the weather will do, however as we’ve seen of late, if you can still get a quality product to market in a timely fashion, the reward is there.”

Mr Phelan said events such as this

month’s gathering were infrequent, as the area’s mixed farmers were collectively busy year-round.

“It is quite rare for that many people to come together at the same time to expand their already-sound knowledge on feeding and livestock, so it was a great effort from our team to get everyone together,” he said.

“There was special interest in Maja Polkinghorne’s presentation around the early weaning of lambs, how early it can actually be done as well as the fact that when done correctly, in a large percentage of cases it is actually the best thing for the lamb.”

Mrs Polkinghorne, from CWS Prime Lamb Sires at Paradise, south of St Arnaud, spoke about the AIM Central program she and her husband have implemented at different times of the year.

“We’ve had two years of dry autumns, a lot of people have been in the situation of daily feeding ewes and lambs at foot, spring is such a long time away – you’re feeling absolutely helpless,” she said.

“We found there was an option – you don’t have to watch your ewes fade away.”

Mrs Polkinghorne said by drying up the ewe and feeding her and the lamb separately, feed could be reduced by 40 per cent.

supply and demand is the obvious driver of any market, there are limits to what is sustainable for both the grower and the processor,” he said.

“He spoke on the need for a consistent supply of quality product, and where the happy medium was with regards to price per kilo carcass weight, given a stable economy.

“Although we are a long way from anywhere, because we are an export market, global events, which have been uncertain at best of late, along with the Australian and American dollar currency has a huge bearing on what contract pricing is palatable for a processor as well as clients.”

Other speakers were Talbina Feedlot’s Tom Bouchier, who spoke about feedlotting, Rumenate Livestock Services’ Jess Revell on livestock nutrition and production advice, and AWN’s Tim Prior on utilising finance and deferred terms.

Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

GUEST SPEAKER: AWN Lamb Feedlot and Nutrition Day guest speaker Dean McKenna, from Midfield Meats at Warrnambool, gave a meat outlook.

“It was regaining a little bit of control and not falling into the victim mentality of the dry season – there are actually things you can do to regain control and manage what you can manage,” she said.

Mr Phelan said AWN had no further events scheduled at this stage.

“I think it is important not to overwhelm our clients with too many days like today,” he said.

BRIGHT FUTURE: A new partnership between BCG and RB Sellars was announced at BCG’s Chair’s Breakfast last month. The event brought together growers, advisors and community members to hear from RB Sellars chief executive Jim Gall, whose message centred on the power of optimistic innovation, contagious positivity, and the belief in a bright future for agriculture and regional Australia. “Agriculture tells real stories – stories that matter. When we share them authentically, they give us brightness, hope, and a tangible vision for the future. That’s what we want to celebrate through this partnership with BCG,” he said.

Pictured, from left, are BCG chief executive Fiona Best, chairman John Ferrier, RB Sellars chief executive Jim Gall, and BCG board members Ian McClelland, Cameron Warne and Brett Hosking.

Mr Phelan said Midfield Meats’ Dean McKenna spoke about the current and future lamb markets.

“He gave great insights into the processing industry, and how although

“Just give up on the weather, we can’t manage it. The program is a tool, you don’t have to use it every year, but once you’ve learned it, it’s a tool in your toolbox.”

“However, when there is a pressing need and a lot to gain for everyone involved like today, then we will definitely look to do more, and when we do, do them as well as possible.”

Wimmera pulse field day

A pulse field day at Kewell will showcase research, trials and market opportunities to farmers, agronomists and industry representatives.

Hosted by Agriculture Victoria in partnership with Grains Research and Development Corporation, Horsham SmartFarm research agronomist Ash

Wallace said the annual event was an industry networking opportunity not to be missed.

“People can come and see our trials in lentil, field pea, chickpea and faba bean, and hear the latest in pulse research and emerging pulse protein market opportunities,” he said.

“Growers will be excited to see new large-seeded lentil variety releases from the National Lentil Breeding Program and Grains Innovation Australia, and learn how to manage problem weeds in pulse crops.

“Attendees will also get fresh updates on sowing times, faba bean and lentil nutrition and agronomy knowhow to support pulse performance and profitability.”

The program features updates from industry experts including the Agriculture Victoria crop pathology team and Frontier Farming Systems pulse agronomist Jason Brand.

BCG trial manager Kelly Angel and Faba Bean Australia breeder Sam Catt would also be present to share National Variety Trials results.

Seed distributors, marketing and export experts will also be on hand.

The free October 22 event opens at 8.30am, and will finish at 1pm, with complementary pulse-based morning tea and barbecue lunch available. People can learn more at www. agriculture.vic.gov.au/events.

Testing New Zealand footrot results

Sheep Genetics and neXtgen Agri representatives collaborated with sheep producers at a footrot breeding research session at Charam’s Curlew Merinos, discussing the latest research and progress on the development of a new footrot breeding value for merinos in Australia.

Sheep Genetics’ Marnie Hodge and neXtgen Agri’s Dr Mark Ferguson gave insights into how genetic tools can help producers reduce the impact of footrot, scald, and poor foot structure on flock health and productivity.

Curlew Merinos’ Elise Kealy said about 30 people attended the event and contributed to discussions with their own experiences with footrot and preventative strategies.

“I was blown away by the open, constructive conversation that people

were happy to have and share with the group that was there,” she said.

“People came from three different states – there was a lot of interest, and a lot of people were happy to contribute to the conversation.

“They asked questions and were happy to share their experiences with footrot and how sheep with different selection pressure have responded to different footrot strains.”

The development of a footrot breeding value is already delivering positive results in New Zealand, where breeders are using it to improve flock resistance.

A separate trial is now underway in Victoria to validate the NZ findings under Australian conditions.

“At the moment, there’s a collaborative project being undertaken by AWI, Murdoch University, neXtgen Agri and Animal Health Australia – Mark

Ferguson showed some of the preliminary trial results,” Ms Kealy said.

“Sheep Genetics representatives were also there, and they shared their timeline.

‘Ticking along pretty well’

Crops across the western district have drawn on soil moisture to sustain their growth following average to low rainfall into August.

Mininera farmer Lewis Keller said his crops were looking good, but he would be happy for more rain.

“It’s ticking along pretty well at the moment, but it can keep raining,” he said.

“Crops are up and about, they look really good at the moment, we just need the rain to finish them. There’s a bit of stored moisture underneath, so that helps us.”

Mr Keller said he expected to begin harvest in mid-to-late November.

“We’re flat-out putting fungicides out, and then we’ll roll into our desiccation sprays on our canolas, then windrowing after that,” he said. “Then we’re not far off harvesting, cutting hay and everything else.”

The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts a neutral outlook for September, with equal chance of above, below or near-average rainfall for most of Victoria, with a forecast for wetter weather until November.

“They expect that not only will we have a breeding value, but we’ll be able to do genomic predictions for footrot resistance, as well as incorporating it into a flock profile test.”

For the past six years, Curlew Merinos has supported the research by sending cull rams to a host farm for scoring of footrot resistance and scald, contributing valuable data to the national effort.

Curlew Merinos is one of few studs in Australia recording the footrot data and has also used sires that have performed well in New Zealand as a way to benchmark their own flock.

“We were able to share our experiences and selection strategies, and at the end of all of this trial work, sheep genetics will have a footrot breeding value available that people can use,” Ms Kealy said.

“If people want to be kept in the loop as we collect more information, we’re happy to keep sharing our results.”

People can contact Ms Kealy at info@curlewmerinos.com for more information on the trial and its results.

Increasing number of snake sightings

Snakes are emerging from a period of reduced activity during the colder months to seek food and mates.

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action statewide wildlife advisory services manager Lachlan Clarke said most snake bites occurred when people tried to capture

or kill the reptiles. “The most effective way to stay safe is to simply leave them alone –this includes keeping pets on leads in areas where snakes are known to occur,” he said.

People can reduce the risk of snakes on their properties by keeping yards tidy, and clearing away clutter. If a snakebite is suspected, people should call triple zero immediately, or consult a veterinarian if an animal is suspected to have been bitten.

Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975, and capturing, harming, or killing them is illegal.

Horsham Autoglass

UNITED EFFORTS: Sheep Genetics’ Victoria Ledger and Marnie Hodge with Curlew Merinos’ Elise Kealy, right.

GUARD: A pair of wedge-tailed eagles at Mininera. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Vertical Feed -mixers

Options for better hay

Agriculture Victoria hosted West Gippsland retired dairy extension officer Frank Mickan for a series of workshops across the state to help producers make informed decisions around this season’s fodder production.

AgVic regional manager for meat and wool Brad Costin said well-known expert Mr Mickan gave advice on how to get the most out of pasture hay this spring.

“Frank Mickan, an industry-renowned specialist in fodder and pasture conservation, provided insights into producing high-quality hay,” he said.

The workshops covered: how to make the best quality hay and silage; fodder quality influence on livestock production; understanding the ensiling process; including additives; storage systems and minimising wastage; and feed testing.

Mr Mickan said the use of preservatives could give farmers better results.

“The whole idea was to try and give people a bit more information in terms of making good quality hay, largely, not so much silage,” he said.

“In terms of when to cut, how to speed up the drying and how to reduce losses.

“So importantly, how to think about using preservatives, so when the hay’s on the ground and it’s a little bit wet, or there’s rain coming, by using a preservative, you can have top quality hay and get it into the bale before, and reduce the risk of heating and losing quality.”

Mr Mickan said western Victoria tends to have rain throughout the hay season.

“This means hay might be going slightly wet, or if they’re cutting some of the cereals with the grain head still in the boot, and it’s very hard to get that dry,” he said.

“That’s where these preservatives can minimise the risk of spontaneous combustion.

“And we don’t get milk out of poor quality stuff, so we try and encourage farmers all the time to go for quality,

quality, quality. Whenever I talk, it’s always quality, quality, quality.

“In our world, weather will come along, or contractors won’t turn up and your quality won’t be so good, but we keep trying to aim for the top level.”

The events were delivered as part of the State Government’s statewide drought support package – people can find out more about drought support at www. agriculture.vic.gov.au/drought or by calling 136 186.

OʼBrien & Smith Lawyers are pleased to announce they have acquired Derbyshire Legal, a respected institution in Stawell.

As Yvonne Derbyshire steps into a well-earned retirement, O’Brien & Smith Lawyers are excited to continue Derbyshire Legal’s tradition of exceptional legal service. O’Brien & Smith Lawyers extend their heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Yvonne on her retirement and thank her for her continued trust and support.

The team at OʼBrien and Smith Lawyers look forward to assisting with your legal needs, and are happy to announce that Helen Thomson is back from maternity leave and now accepting appointments.

The team O’Brien & Smith Lawyers will be available to assist you with your legal needs from the same familiar location at 178 Main Street, Stawell from 1 March 2025.

Please note that consultations will be conducted by appointment only to ensure the highest level of service. To arrange your appointment, kindly contact O’Brien Smith Lawyers’ reception by calling 5381 2222 or visit www.obsl.com.au.

Janmac raising the bar

A ram sale at Goroke next month will give sheep producers the opportunity to invest in a secure lambing future, with proven results despite challenging seasons.

Janmac Studs’ Grant Hausler said this year was a good year to invest.

“The team of rams you buy this year will hopefully take you into a good season and good prices,” he said.

Mr Hausler said Janmac had come through its second consecutive ‘very tight’ rainfall year, but remained firmly focused on what lay ahead, with conditions beginning to change.

“We are really positive about the future. Lamb prices are as good as we’ve seen in recent memory and it won’t just be a one-year blip, it’s likely going out four or five years. The stock are getting better, the genetics are getting better, so when the season plays the game, it will be game on,” he said.

Janmac will host its 21st annual on-property ram sale on October 1 from 1pm, offering 200 Poll Dorset and White Suffolk stud and flock rams.

Mr Hausler said his sale rams had been tested by tough seasonal conditions, but he was pleased by how they would present in October.

“We are breeding animals that have the capacity to recover, whether that be our commercial lambs or our rams,” he said.

“Our commercial lambs were battling, but have turned into really good prime lambs, a good indication that what we breed works.”

Last spring, the Hausler family achieved a stud record for a Poll Dorset at $13,000, averaging $1549 for the 136 rams sold. They also sold 34 White Suffolk rams, averaging $1260 and topping at $2300.

This year, the catalogue will feature standout sons of Warburn 220470, a sire Janmac purchased in partnership with Mallee Park and Sunnybanks studs in 2023 for $16,000 with Australian Sheep Breeding Values in the top 20 per cent for all eye muscle and yield indicators.

“Bloodlines we’ve used in the past have worked for us, so we continue to do what we’ve always done, lines of even sheep that work. If you stick with what you know, you get predictability in the product,” Mr Hausler said.

The Hausler family welcomes visitors to Janmac, at Edenhope Road, Goroke to see the current team of rams for themselves.

For the latest sale updates, people can visit www.janmac. com.au.

Lauren

Patrick Smith

Helen Thomson

KNOWLEDGE: From left, Jim Delahunty, Mick Leeming and Craig Altmann with fodder expert Frank Mickan at a Wimmera fodder workshop at Grains Innovation Park, Horsham. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Stay on the move with Wimmera Bearings

How do we compare?

Fasten your tractor seatbelts folks. The feeding frenzy over the Albanese government’s revised emissions target reduction of between 62 and 70 per cent by 2035 may have been last week’s news, but it’s not over yet.

The government has landed the target in the centre of expectations and the response has been predictable.

Opposition leader Sussan Ley said after a meeting of Shadow Cabinet, that: “We are dead against Labor’s 2035 interim emission reduction targets cost and credibility is key …. we will interrogate and test this announcement for cost credibility. It fails on both counts.”

She is under enormous pressure on this issue with The Nationals wanting to follow the United States example by dumping targets altogether.

Meanwhile, Shadow Energy and Emissions Reduction Minister Dan Tehan is apparently on a study tour of nuclear power facilities in the United States.

He has the unenviable task of assessing if nuclear is an option in Australia, while many claim we’ve missed the nuclear boat.

Not so the media-mad Nationals Leader David Littleproud, who can sniff a microphone from a mile away and would go to the opening of a lunch box. Seemingly not caring what feathers he ruffles in the Coalition, Mr Littleproud comes out all guns blazing at his media conference.

“Let me give the Prime Minister some fun facts. He talked about China’s transition into renewables and wind and solar. Let me tell you, they’re still building coal-fired power stations. In fact, on average, nearly two a week. And in fact, they have 28 nuclear power plants under

Country Today

with Libby Price

construction as we speak.” So how do we compare with other like nations? Canada’s current target is just 40 to 45 per cent by 2030, New Zealand 51 to 55 per cent. Topping the global target is the United Kingdom with a target of 81 per cent by 2035. So how can they set such a high target without tearing themselves apart politically?

ANU Emeritus Professor Mark Howden is the former director of the Institute for Climate, Energy and Disaster solutions and is a vicechair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. He explained how the UK has done it on Country Today last week.

“Basically in the UK, they’ve got bipartisan agreement. So you don’t have the apologising in the flip-flopping in policy terms that Australia has to contend with and so that allows them to be progressive,” Professor Howden said.

According to the BBC’s reporting of our new target, we’re still the bad guys.

“Australia, one of the world’s biggest polluters per capita, will aim to cut its carbon emissions by at least 62 per cent compared to 2005 levels over the next decade. The nation – which has faced global criticism for its continued reliance on fossil fuels – had previously pledged to reduce greenhouse gases by 43 per cent by 2030.”

College shines at Merino challenge

Murtoa College achieved outstanding results as a firsttime entrant in the Victorian Schools Merino Wether Challenge last month, placing in all four sections.

Ten Murtoa students competed against students from 15 other Victorian schools, each bringing a team of six wethers, split into an A and B team of three.

Murtoa College A placed first in the fleece value ahead of Greater Shepparton Secondary College A and Goroke P-12

College B, second in grand champion, and third in carcass value and best-presented.

Each team of sheep was weighed and scanned to determine carcass value, presented to the judges by students, tested for wool micron through a mid-section sample, and shorn so the fleece could be assessed for quality and value.

From the results of the wool testing, students also had to select the best fleece from their six sheep – a skill that challenged their eye for detail and

decision-making. Throughout the day, students had the chance to participate in a variety of hands-on workshops, run by industry experts from Longerenong College, University of Melbourne Dookie Campus, Fox and Lillie Wool Brokers, and Australian Wool Innovation.

The sessions gave students valuable insight into the sheep and wool industry and possible career and educational pathways.

TOP ACHIEVERS: Murtoa College students, from left, Oliver Barker, Malachi Pickering, Holley Eagles, Jack Fischer, Ryder Hudson and Charlie Maher.

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Hunt family honoured

The Hunt family’s extraordinary contribution to Birchip Cropping Group was recognised at its Main Field Day, with Professor James Hunt receiving the prestigious Harm van Rees Award, and his parents, Geoff and Bronwyn Hunt, awarded life memberships.

Together, the honours recognise more than three decades of commitment, innovation and leadership by the Hunt family in advancing farmerled research and strengthening agricultural communities across northwest Victoria.

The Harm van Rees Award is reserved for individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to BCG and the farming community through clear, practical and inspiring communication.

Professor Hunt, now a leader in agricultural science at the University of Melbourne, has built a career dedicated to bridging the gap between research and practice.

Early in his career at BCG, he played a pivotal role in the development and extension of ‘Yield Prophet’, a decision-support tool that has transformed how growers assess risk and make cropping decisions.

He also pioneered ‘N Banking’, a practical nitrogen management strategy now widely used across farming systems.

BCG chairman John Ferrier said

Professor Hunt’s contribution embodied the spirit of the award.

“James has a unique ability to translate complex science into practical, real-world applications for farmers,” he said.

“His impact is felt not only through his research, but also in his teaching and his commitment to guiding the next generation of agronomists.

“He has stayed true to his roots, always keeping farmers at the centre of the conversation.”

Professor Hunt has also given back to BCG, serving on the board and research committee, where his leader-

ship has helped shape the organisation’s direction with both scientific rigour and on-farm relevance.

BCG’s life membership is the highest honour the organisation can bestow, reserved for individuals whose service has been outstanding and enduring.

For more than 30 years, Mr and Mrs Hunt have exemplified the qualities, helping to lay the foundation for BCG’s success.

Among their many achievements, they were: founding members of the Normanville FM500 farming group and early farmer members of BCG;

founding members of the BCG Research Committee, embedding scientific discipline into farmer-driven research; hosts of numerous BCG trials and visitors, generously opening their farm at Normanville to share knowledge and ideas; active participants at BCG events, always ready to initiate and contribute to critical agronomic discussions; representatives of BCG on the international stage at the Farming Design Conference in Lanzhou, China; and champions of farmer voices, with Mr Hunt serving on the GRDC Southern Panel to ensure local priorities were represented.

BCG chief executive Fiona Best said the Hunts’ contribution had left an enduring legacy.

“Geoff and Bronwyn have been pillars of BCG since its inception,” she said.

“Their generosity, insight, and lead-

ership have strengthened this organisation and supported countless farmers to make better-informed decisions.

“Recognising them as life members is a fitting tribute to their extraordinary service.”

Though now retired from farming, Mr and Mrs Hunt’s passion for agriculture and farmer-led innovation remains strong, and their influence continues to shape BCG.

Mr Ferrier said the Hunt family had given so much to BCG.

“From Geoff and Bronwyn’s leadership in our formative years, to James’ contribution as both a researcher and communicator,” he said.

“Together, they embody the values that have made BCG what it is today: curiosity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to improving farming for all.”

LIFE MEMBERS: Geoff and Bronwyn Hunt, centre, were awarded BCG Life Memberships. They are pictured with BCG chairman John Ferrier, left, and Ian McClelland.

RECOGNITION: Professor James Hunt, centre, received the Harm van Rees award from Mr van Rees, left, and BCG chief executive Fiona Best.

Invitation to Otways tour

ALivestock

and Landscape

Farm Tour to the Otways next month will take Wimmera farmers to a grazing property where 30 years of improvements have transformed productivity and the landscape.

Wimmera Catchment Management Authority, CMA, is inviting farmers and Landcare groups to jump on a bus on October 20 to visit the Stewart’s Yan Yan Gurt West Farm.

The bus will leave from Horsham and stop at Stawell, Ararat, Skipton and Beeac. Corangamite and Glenelg Hopkins CMAs are co-hosting the tour.

Wimmera sustainable agriculture facilitator Bronwyn Bant said the tour was a great opportunity to visit a successful working farm that’s gained productivity benefits through revegetation and strategic farm planning.

“We’re pleased to be able to take Wimmera farmers outside of the region to see how the Stewarts have changed their landscape and farming system over the past three decades,” she said.

“While the Wimmera doesn’t have the same soil types, climatic condi-

tions or annual rainfall experienced in the Otways, Yan Yan Gurt West Farm provides a working example of the productivity benefits that can be gained through the integration of biodiversity.

“With a land area of around 230 hectares it is also a great case study of successful farm diversification.”

Fourth-generation farmer Andrew Stewart, along with his wife Jill and daughters Kristy, Hannah and Michelle and their families, manage their family-owned grazing and agroforestry property.

Since completing a whole farm plan in 1991, they have planted more than 55,000 trees and shrubs across 42 hectares, to cover 18 per cent of the farm area.

They also plant deep-rooted, multispecies pastures to improve soil health, and continually trial to discover the benefits of other multi-species including chicory and plantain.

Mr Stewart said increasing vegetation cover on the farm had not reduced their agricultural production.

They run 1300 breeding ewes, producing 1600-1800 lambs annually. They are reducing the emissions

WORKING EXAMPLE: The Stewart’s Yan Yan Gurt West Farm provides a working example of the productivity benefits that can be gained through the integration of biodiversity.

intensity of their livestock through sheep genetics, optimising feed and live-weight monitoring.

They have been able to generate new income streams and have a commercially successful banksia and wildflower foliage business that supplies florists, restaurants and function centres.

“The goal is to make our farm sustainable for the long-term and to improve the wellbeing of livestock, native animals and people living in this landscape,” Mr Stewart said.

He said they have a strong focus on production efficiency through using pregnancy scanning and maximising lamb survival, which ranges from 85 to 95 per cent for twins and singles, respectively.

“Sheep genetics, drench efficacy testing, rotational grazing, autumn saving and set stocking at lambing are also important,” he said.

The carbon account – all emissions

and sequestration within the operational boundary – showed the farm enterprise was carbon neutral in 20222023.

“Our target is 20 per cent tree cover and through this and other tools in our farming system’s toolbox, we aim to achieve a zero carbon footprint into the future,” Mr Stewart said.

He won the 2021 Bob Hawke National Landcare Award and is a founding member of the Otway Agroforestry Network and member of the East Otway Landcare Group.

Mr Stewart has also been on the Australian Landcare Council, is a recipient of a Norman Wettenhall Foundation Landscape Restoration Fellowship and a former chair of the Victorian Farmers Federation Farm Tree and Landcare Association.

“Over the past 30 years we’ve been part of a community that have collaborated strongly,” he said.

“By joining forces to share ideas and

be part of a community of ‘doers’ we have all built up our knowledge about good landscape functionality.

“At the same time we’ve had a good social time and the general sense of wellbeing that’s resulted continues to inspire us.”

To register for the free tour, including meals, people can visit https:// forms.office.com/r/GmUGp1Reer. Places are limited, and people need to register before October 15.

If people prefer to make their own way to Yan Yan Gurt West, they can contact Bronwyn Bant for times and directions at Bronwyn.bant@wcma. vic.gov.au or phone 0427 529 232.

The tour is in partnership with Agriculture Victoria and Landcare Victoria, as part of the Carbon Farming Outreach Program, funded by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

Supporting region’s farmers

BCG’s

Main Field Day attracted more than 500 farmers to hear the latest research, and connect with their peers and broader industry, with decision-making on farm at the heart of the program.

Leading researchers – including University of Melbourne Professor James Hunt, University of Adelaide Professor Chris Preston, BCG’s James Nuttall, CSIRO’s Andrew Fletcher and Greg Rebetzke, and Astute Ag’s Grant Hollaway – covered topics from variety performance and nitrogen strategies through to alternative chemistries to paraquat and using tools such as BioScout to detect disease spikes.

Among the standout sessions was Dr Nuttall’s exploration of crop-soil interactions in a 20-metre soil pit, offering farmers a tangible view of how roots of wheat, barley, canola and pulses access water and nutrients; and ‘Farming without paraquat’, preparing growers for a future with restricted herbicide use.

Beyond the formal presentations, networking and peer-to-peer conversations provided invaluable opportunities to share insights and experiences.

BCG chief executive Fiona Best officially opened the event, acknowledging both the challenges and opportunities of the season.

“Farmers are continually making

DAY: A 20-metre-long soil pit was a feature at BCG’s Main Field Day earlier this month, showing producers what lies beneath their crops and how it impacts production. BCG senior scientist James Nuttall led the discussion, drawing on his extensive research into subsoil constraints, water movement and crop responses

decisions in complex environments,” she said.

“Our aim is to ensure every decision point is supported by the right information at the right time, and that farmers feel connected to their peers and the wider research community.”

Chairman John Ferrier said the day reflected the strength of BCG’s partnerships.

“Collaboration is central to what BCG does,” he said.

“Bringing together world-class researchers, local knowledge, students

and industry partners ensures our region is well placed to tackle challenges and embrace new opportunities.”

This year’s event also featured more than 60 students from regional schools taking part in a dedicated stream facilitated by BCG’s Joe Collins and North Central LLEN’s Claudia Cox. Students explored career pathways in agriculture and engaged in an interactive trial, pulling plants from the ground to learn about crop growth stages.

Ms Best said the event showcased

the strength of the farming community.

“This season has presented its challenges, particularly with a dry start, but seeing farmers share knowledge, learn from researchers, and connect with peers reinforces the strength of our community,” she said.

“Together, we’re navigating rising costs, making informed decisions, and finding ways to achieve strong yields and healthy, resilient farm businesses.”

Payments rolling out

The State Government’s Primary Producer Support Payments program is rolling out, giving eligible farmers the equivalent of a 40 per cent reduction on their property rates.

Ararat, Pyrenees, Southern Grampians and West Wimmera are among the 12 councils administering the program, which is one of a suite of programs and services in the government’s $144-million Drought Support Package.

More than 2800 farmers have accessed the Farm Drought Support Grants and more than 490 farmers have utilised the free one-on-one technical decision-making consultations.

In addition, more than 120 Look Over the Farm Gate community events have been approved to support mental health and wellbeing across the state.

The Premier’s Drought Response Taskforce met to discuss current seasonal, economic, and social conditions facing farmers and rural communities.

The taskforce will continue to monitor conditions over the coming months.

For more information on the government’s Drought Support Package for drought-impacted farmers, people can visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/ drought or call 136 186.

FIELD

in Mallee farming systems.

Balancing demands

Toyota Australia says it is in a better position than most when it comes to balancing the demands of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, NVES.

With a considerable range of petrolelectric hybrid models countering the large volume of diesel-powered models it sells, the Japanese importer says it can avoid passing on penalties to its customers, at least for the next couple of years.

Speaking with GoAuto at a preview drive of the LandCruiser 300 Series Hybrid in Melbourne last week, Toyota Australia vice-president of sales, marketing and franchise operations

Sean Hanley said the importer’s hybrid vehicle focus would combine with future product to ensure it can balance its NVES requirements.

“The good news is that when you’re selling nearly half of your vehicles as hybrid right now, it is advantageous

for Toyota,” he said. “When you add the product portfolio we have coming over the next two to three years –more BEVs and more plug-in hybrids – we can start to balance our penalty versus credit scenario.

“We are still aiming to be self-sustainable on that NVES environment –and to be able to offer people the cars that they want.”

When asked specifically whether the volume of diesel-powered vehicles sold by Toyota – including the popular HiAce, HiLux, LandCruiser Prado, LandCruiser 70 Series, and others – could be countered by the number of hybridised passenger and SUV models it sold, Mr Hanley said it was inevitable that the cost of penalties would be passed on to customers as NVES restrictions tightened.

“In the short-term, between now and 2027, yes, they will. Beyond that it becomes very challenging for

our commercial vehicles,” he said.

“Our first position is to try and be self-sustainable – to offset penalties with credits. We are not going to buy credits from other companies.

“But the reality is we may not be able to offset all of them – the volume of diesel-powered models sold. So, you can’t rule out price increases.

“But these will be minimal because the market is simply too competitive, and we’re already starting to see that with a couple of manufacturers.”

Mr Hanley said while Toyota Australia would monitor the situation closely, avoiding as far as possible an increase in its prices, the time may

come where diesel-powered vehicles would wear an NVES penalty at the point of sale.

“I could not sit here in good conscience and say that won’t happen. But I don’t think it will be as dramatic as some might have thought,” he said.

Under the NVES, vehicles are separated into two categories.

Type one vehicles include passenger cars and SUVs, while type two vehicles include light commercial vehicles – utes and vans – as well as heavy offroad passenger vehicles – body-onframe four-wheel drives with a braked towing capacity of 3000kg or more.

The NVES sets CO2 exhaust emis-

sions targets for all new vehicles sold, which importers must meet to avoid being penalised.

Importers may continue to sell highemissions models but will be required to offset these with the sale of lowemissions vehicles including hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric models.

If an importer cannot ‘balance’ its high- and low-emissions vehicles, it will be fined by the Federal Government at an indexed rate of $100 per gram of CO2 per kilometre for each vehicle sold that is over the limit.

– Matt Brogan

LDV to import factory-built van

LDV

is set to offer its Deliver 9 Campervan in Australia from next month, priced from $89,990 driveaway.

Available as a turn-key solution from the showroom floor, the Deliver 9 Campervan saves buyers the hassle of purchasing a vehicle and having it converted elsewhere, while also undercutting similar-sized competitors by thousands of dollars.

Based upon the LDV Deliver 9 longwheelbase high-roof van, the Campervan comes with a kitchen sink, a 96-litre fridge with 20-litre freezer, microwave, toilet, an induction cook top and more.

It has a choice of two showers: one inside the vehicle and another that can be used outside.

A large retractable awning attached to the passenger-side of the vehicle provides shade at rest stops and camp sites.

An electric side-step lowers when the side sliding door is opened, and automatically retracts once the door is closed.

Other standard inclusions are a sliding flyscreen ‘door’ behind the side door, window shades in the living areas, a stowable tabletop to create a back-seat dining area, plus both front seats can be swivelled rearwards to face the guest area when the vehicle is parked.

LDV Australia says the double-bed platform, which can be assembled or disassembled in less than a minute, has a large storage compartment underneath.

To ensure there is a supply of emergency power away from caravan parks, the LDV Deliver 9 Campervan has a built-in 2.56kWh lithium-ion

battery pack that is topped-up by the 190-watt solar panel on the roof and runs certain appliances via a 2000watt inverter.

A built-in 100-litre freshwater tank is accompanied by a 100-litre grey water tank, and there is a removable 16-litre tank for toilet waste.

A large air-conditioning unit –

mounted on the roof of the vehicle – can be operated when the LDV Deliver 9 Campervan is running on 240V mains electricity power outlets, such as those available at caravan parks.

The LDV Deliver 9 Campervan is powered by a familiar turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine developing 108kW of power at

3500rpm and 375Nm of torque between 1500-2400rpm. Power transmission is via a six-speed automatic unit to the rear wheels.

Other specification highlights include a full-size spare wheel, 80-litre fuel tank, 2800kg braked towing capacity, and a 14.2m turning circle.

The LDV Deliver 9 Campervan measures 5940mm in length, 2466mm in width, 2925mm in height, and 3760mm in wheelbase.

It is backed by a three-year/ 160,000km factory warranty with two years/unlimited kilometres coverage on the Campervan’s bodywork, furniture, and cabinetry. Service intervals are set at 12 months or 30,000km, whichever comes first, following the first service at six months or 5000km.

“Campervans have grown in popularity over the past decade as an increasing number of Australians choose to explore the great outdoors on their own terms, their own timetable – and in their own vehicle,” LDV Australia general manager Dinesh Chinnappa said.

“This factory-built campervan is decked out with everything you need for a getaway – ready to go, straight off the showroom floor.

“We believe the LDV Deliver 9 campervan will help expand an emerging market segment.” – Matt Brogan

INCLUDING THE KITCHEN SINK: LDV’s Deliver 9 Campervan will be on the market next month.

business, working administration two days a week.

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

PUZZLEs

Quick Workout

Fit the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.

Fit the given numbers into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same No number is repeated in any hexagon

© bmpuzzles Distributed by Knight Features

On This Day

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: September 29, 2005 –Horsham’s Christian Emergency Food Centre president John Parker, centre, with Member for Ripon Joe Helper, left, who opened the new building renovations, and major benefactor Geoff Handbury, in the centre’s storage area. Mr Handbury said it was amazing how the nine Horsham churches had put their differences aside to work together on the important project and avoided unnecessary duplication. A total of $293,000 was donated for the project, which enabled the purchase of the Firebrace Street building.

10 years ago: September 30, 2015

The Natimuk Frinj festival was set to include musical act Downbeat, from Perth, as well as Sydney’s Nick Clow, and Frinj favourites Jeff Raglus and the Beachniks from Lorne. The 10 musical acts brought genres of ska, reggae, club-inspired, ’60s garage surf rock, folk, contemporary and opera. A dress-up ‘Step Back in Time’ disco encouraged people to dress as their favourite rock star from between 1972 and 1992.

Five years ago: September 30, 2020

Highlights of the Textile Art Museum Australia, TAMA, collection were digitised and projected in the Ararat gallery’s foyer window to give people a taste of the work during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. The images were created from original works with funding under Creative Victoria’s Regional Digitisation Roadshow, where the gallery’s 1200-piece collection was individually photographed the previous year. Digitisation support officer Katy Mitchell said the aim was to provide free online access to the collections, both domestically and across the world.

One year ago: September 25, 2024

A $10-million housing project brought 25 tenant-ready modular homes to Horsham, increasing social housing in the area. Project partner Haven Home Safe’s chair Vanessa Broder said people from the Horsham community who were eligible for, or on, the Victorian Housing Register could apply to live in the houses. Then-outgoing Horsham Rural City Council Mayor Robyn Gulline said the project was personally significant to her – its planning application was the first that Cr Gulline’s council considered during its term.

TaKE a BREaK

yOUR LUCKy sTaRs

FOR THE WEEK SEPTEMBER 28 TO OCTOBER 4

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 1, 2, 1, 9

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 19, 25, 28, 37

1. Born on this day in 1948, was which Canadian-American actor you might remember from such roles as NewsRadio and The Simpsons?

2. Mageiricophobia is the intense fear of having to do what – eat, clean, shop or cook?

3. Which current AFL player was the youngest to make their debut, at 18 years and 61 days – Levi Ashcroft, Harry Sharp, Callan Ward or Mattaes Phillipou?

4. Which is the only rock that floats?

5. True or false – the only bones in a shark’s body are its jaws and teeth?

6. What song did Paul McCartney pen for John Lennon’s son, Julian?

7. On average, which grows faster, fingernails or toenails?

8. Which freezes faster, hot or cold water?

9. Which of these are officially classified as bears – koala, panda, wolverine, sun bear?

10. Born in 1904 and dying on this day in 1991, was which American children’s author, who wrote ‘If I Ran the Zoo’, ‘There’s a Wocket in my Pocket’, and ‘One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish’.

Written by Paul McCartney in 1968 to comfort Julian during his parents’ divorce. McCartney originally called it ‘Hey Jules’ but changed it to ‘Jude’ because it ‘sounded better’. The song is reported intended as an -encourag ing message of support, advising Julian to deal with his sadness and -em brace opportunities to find happiness and love. 7. Fingernails. 8. Hot water. The Mpemba effect is the observation that hot liquid can freeze more quickly than cold liquid when both are identical in volume and under similar conditions. Physicists remain divided on the effect’s reproducibility, precise definition, and underlying mechanisms. It is named after Erasto Mpemba, a Tanzanian teenager who studied it scientifically in the 1960s for the first time, along with Denis Osborne. 9. Sun bears and pandas are members of the bear family. Koalas are Phascolarctidae marsupials and wolverines are members of the weasel family. 10. Dr Seuss, whose real name was Theodor Seuss Geisel. He was not a doctor of medicine or philosophy, but was granted an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Dartmouth College in 1955.

Answers: 1. Phil Hartman. He voiced The Simpsons’ Troy McClure. 2. Cook. 3. Levi Ashcroft. He was drafted to the Brisbane Lions with pick five in last year’s draft under the father-son rule. 4. Pumice. 5. False. There are no bones in a shark’s body. The jaw is ossified cartilage and the teeth are -pri marily enamel. The shark’s skeleton is made up of cartilage. 6. ‘Hey Jude’.

Getting in touch with The Weekly AdverTiser

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

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

O’Loughlin,

Pty Ltd, 1 McKoy Street, West Wodonga, and distributed by regional distributors and Australia Post.

This week presents more opportunities to advance your career plans. While some doubts about existing relationships may arise, it’s best to let things remain as they are for now. Expect unusual invitations on the social scene.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 2, 4, 3, 4

Lotto Numbers: 4, 13, 22, 31, 39, 40

Friends may try to meddle in your private affairs if you let them. Trust your instincts as your ideas are likely to be accurate. Expect to be in high demand on the social scene.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 4, 5, 3, 2

Lotto Numbers: 4, 13, 22, 31, 32, 42

Avoid rushing into impulsive romantic encounters, as they could lead to trouble. Prioritise your health and ensure you’re looking after yourself. Your determination at work may bring positive outcomes.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 5, 1, 6, 5

Lotto Numbers: 5, 14, 23, 26, 35, 41

This period may feel emotionally intense, and you might overspend to keep loved ones happy. New opportunities for financial gain are on the horizon.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 1, 4, 6, 4

Lotto Numbers: 5, 14, 25, 30, 32, 44

New friendships may offer opportunities to mix business with pleasure, and love relationships are set to become more enjoyable. Expect a few surprises during your travels.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 1, 4, 1, 7

Lotto Numbers: 1, 10, 14, 17, 27, 33

This is a great time to ask for favours, start new ventures, and make investments. Romantic opportunities abound, and someone you meet during this period may capture your interest.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 1, 1, 3, 4

Lotto Numbers: 1, 11, 25, 35, 40, 43

Something from your past is likely to resurface, offering answers to mysteries and tying up loose ends. Seek favours from those in a position to help further your ambitions. Many will embark on new paths during this period.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 3, 7, 4, 3

Lotto Numbers: 3, 7, 16, 30, 37, 43

You may face obstacles in family relationships. Ensure everyone is contributing their share and not relying too heavily on you for support.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 2, 2, 7, 6

Lotto Numbers: 2, 11, 20, 27, 29, 38

This is a time for renewing relationships and friendships. The unusual and mysterious may catch your attention, but not everyone can keep up with your pace.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 3, 3, 2, 1

Lotto Numbers: 3, 12, 21, 26, 30, 39

Friends may provide an excellent financial opportunity. Old acquaintances may get in touch, making you more inclined to socialise. Financially, a lucky period is ahead.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Saturday

Racing Numbers: 1, 8, 9, 2

Lotto Numbers: 9, 18, 24, 34, 36, 42

This period is full of rewards and surprises. Greater responsibilities and hard work will be necessary, but the effort will pay off. Some could even experience a financial windfall.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 3, 2, 8, 3

Lotto Numbers: 12, 21, 30, 38, 39, 40

You may feel the influence of others trying to steer you towards their ideas. However, you can surprise everyone by expanding your business or achieving personal aims. Believe in yourself and pursue your ambitions.

Classifieds

BALL,

Basil William ‘Wog’

Passed away September 18, 2025 aged 86 years.

Beloved husband of Jan, for 63 and a half years. Loving father and father-in-law of Craig (dec) & Jane; Trevor & Ann; Maria and Suzanne (dec). Much loved Pa to all his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

‘Forever in our hearts’

PULS,

Colin Friedrich

George

12-6-1935 to 15-9-2025

Loving husband of Loloma.

Devoted father of Catherine and Guy, Jennifer and Rob (dec), Suzanne, Andrew and Mark.

Proud grandfather of 8.

PULS,

Colin Friedrich

George

12.06.1935 - 15.09.2025

Loving husband of Loloma.

Devoted father of Catherine and Guy, Jennifer and Rob (dec), Suzanne, Andrew and Mark.

Proud grandfather of 8. Funeral details to come.

SAUNDERS,

Leonard ‘Barry’

Barry passed away peacefully on Wednesday, 17 th September 2025 in Naracoorte, surrounded by his loving family.

Loved son of Ernest (dec) & Eileen Saunders (dec) and brother of Jeremy.

Much loved husband of Marlene (dec).

He is survived by his loving partner Guelda and his children Andrew, Lisa and Verity.

And his much loved grandchildren James, Theo, Gabriel, Imogen, Chloe and Marni and great granddaughter Elise.

His love of life and his special laugh will be dearly missed.

‘We should be so lucky’

VEREY, Gilbert Richard

25-9-1946 to 11-9-2025

Husband of Diane (dec).

Father & father-in-law of Simon & Erin.

Grandfather of Isla & Lloyd. Eldest son of Stan & Flo (dec).

Brother & brother-in-law of Janice & John Evans & Ken & Tina. Funeral to be arranged.

WILLIAMSON, Judith Pamela

22-4-1939 to 21-9-2025

Wife of Daryl (dec).

Mother of Susan, Geoffrey, Michael, David, Helen & Carolyn & their partners.

Grandmother of 17 & Great Grandmother of 7.

WILLIAMSON, Judith Pamela

22-4-1939 to 21-9-2025

Family and friends are respectfully informed that a memorial service for Judith will take place at the Dimboola Rowing Sheds, Tuesday, September 30 at 11am

To be privately cremated.

Emiley & Mathew Bone Nhill, Dimboola & Kaniva District Funerals 0419 008 464

DRENDEL, Chris

Five years have passed, yet not a day goes by that we don’t think of you.

Your love, warmth, and laughter remains in our hearts forever.

Deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all.

Forever in our hearts Trevor, Melissa, Matt, Riley & Bella

Thank you

~ KRAUSE ~ Lorraine

BALL, Basil William ‘Wog’

Please see next edition for funeral details.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

PULS, Colin Friedrich George

The funeral of Colin Friedrich George Puls will take place at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Horsham on Monday, September 29, 2025 commencing at 2pm

The service may be viewed on line at www. youtube.com/@horsham lutheranchurchaustr7146

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

SAUNDERS, Leonard ‘Barry’

The family and friends of the late Mr Barry Saunders are invited to attend his Celebration of Life, being held in its entirety at the Naracoorte Bowls Club, Smith street, Naracoorte, on Sunday 28th September 2025, commencing at 2:00pm.

Sarah Hamilton Wattle Range Funerals Naracoorte

We wish to sincerely thank our family, friends and the community for their kindness, support and sympathy shown following the passing of our Mother/Mother-In-Law, Grandmother and Great Grandmother.

Many Thanks to Dr Franklin and The Dunmunkle Lodge for their care for Mum.

Also Thankyou to Gardiner’s and Pastor John for their professional guidance.

Once again our sincere thanks from Stephen, Sharron and Families.

thank you

Thank

you

I would like to express my sincere thanks to all who helped me celebrate my 90th birthday with cards, phone calls, texts, attending the party Friday evening and visits on Saturday and Sunday. I would like to thanks Krys, Roxanne, Noreen & other family members who helped over the weekend. Ivan Smith

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

ANIMALS

*All

•

•

•

3 year old black and tan bitch working kelpie, great yard dog, Ph or PM for details to Harry 0458318200

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

Budgies , assorted colours $10 each Ph 0417533579

Cocker Spaniel pups for sale, purebred pups black, female available from September, microchip # 9 781420009 82266, Source# R185238 Ph 0429 9 12620

Kelpie puppies for sale, good working parents, great temperaments, 2 male brown/ tan, 2 female black/tan and 2 male black/tan available, currently 7 weeks old and have been vaccinated and microchipped, source# MB 286176, 956000018852127, 956000017246586, 956000017239009, 956000017249996, 956000017239349, 956000018852851, $500 Ph 0408575398

Princess Parrots for sale, breeding pairs, various colours Ph 0439655239 Stawell area

Purebred black faced Dorper , rams and ewes, rams 2yrs old, ewes 9months old, pic# 3HSDC083 Ph Liz 0419664345

Reduced price to reflect age of puppies, Spoodle puppies, 2 Spoodle girls - could one of these girls be the missing piece in your life, raised in a loving family environment with sweet natures, 6 week vacations, microchip and vet checked, ready to join their new furever families �� ��born 9 May, microchip# 956000017221175 & 9 560000189 24045, source # EE223376 $2000 price neg Ph 0400035456

Two four month old baby lovebirds, complete with cage $150 Ph 0457292379 Minyip Welsh Pembroke male and female Corgi puppies red and white, born 11/6/2025, vet checked vacc and microchip, available on the 8/8/2025 for there new home, microchip# 953010007914643, 953010007914649, 953010007914762, 923010007914686, the pups are reg with MDBA and come with Pedigree paper on limited reg, source# RB110579 Ph or text for pic and info 0448024815

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

Restored Antique cast iron/ timber garden benches $250 each Ph 53522691

1998 Cameron Canvas Camper , fully enclosed annexe, off road tires, double innerspring mattress, always stored undercover $5000ono Ph 0439553575

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

2013 Jayco Starcraft, 21', one owner, very little use, as new, many added extras suit retired couple planning to travel $39,000 Ph 0427909230

2019 Ezy Trail Stirling GT Mark 2 camper, EC, full annex, used 4 times, full rego $14,999 ono Ph 0428820446

Colorado Summit 210E 21' Queen bed, large ensuite, full oven, 3way fridge, washing machine, A/C, diesel heater, sirocco fan, solar panels., lithium battery, AC-DC charger, rollout awning Great condition many extras $48000 ONO Ph 0400189163

Jayco Finch Pop Top, double beds with fly mesh, electric brakes, boat rack, annex $12,000 Ph 53582560

Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Death Notices

Funeral Directors

Event Services

accommodation Animals & Accessories

Antiques

caravans

Death Notices

Funeral Notices

Bereavement Thanks

Memorial Notices

Animals & Accessories

Jayco Sterling van purhcased as new , 21', solar panel, 240v-12v full size fridge, seperate toilet and shower, washing machine, full size double bed with egg shell mattress, 240-12v TV, elec gas hot water and more extras, first to see this van will buy $30,000 Ph 0428861752

MDC Highside Cruiser 2019, 3 ton McHitch, fridge, redarc dc to dc charger, EC $14,500 Ph 0407147996

Queen bed camper trailer, make an offer Ph 0407179433

REDUCED 2018 Dingo

Ultimate Camper , heavy duty top of the line off-road trailer including boat rack, fully enclosed annexe including ensuite, lots of storage, built-in instant gas hot water to sink and shower, dual AGM batteries and built-in inverter and charger, innerspring mattress and ability to make up second double bed, two new off-road tyres, VGC, Y76535 $16,500ono Ph 0407360212

REDUCED Caravan 2015

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

REDUCED Jayco Optimum 2013 motor home 28.5', 2 slides, extras inc, 400 watt solar, diesel heater, bulbar, security system, 92,000kms, $150,000 Ph 0438951101

REDUCED New Age 2013, queen bed, TV, large fridge, microwave, gas/electric hot plates, toilet, shower, washing machine, full annex, sway bars, $44,000 Ph 0427778747

REDUCED Toyota Coaster camper , 2 seater, diesel heater, 1hz motor, solar and 12v awning much more $35,000 Ph 0418325662

2 saddles, 2 bridles, 2 horse bits, 1 drench bit, 1 riding cap Ph 0447590865

20ft shipping container, $3500 ono Ph 0407285097

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

Lost, Prescription Sunglasses in Horsham Woolworths or Aldi car park on 24/8, if found please Ph 0429861917

Roof top tent, 2024 Outback Tourer, hardshell with ladder, 230 watt solar panel & roof rack, 12V power inside, 2 x cig socket & 2 x USB ports, 360 LED internal light strip, 1.5 width x 2.1 length, EC $2500 Ph 0418350445

Slingshot campervan, light weight, easy to tow and setup, annexe, two single beds, EC $13,900 Ph 0429585845

4080B with forks and bucket, GC $15,000 Ph 0419389693

Expression of interest, for sale, Lowan round bale carrier Ph 0407911884 evenings

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

1 small garden table plus 4 matching chairs, black metal glass top $150, 1 small fridge in good condition 47cm $60 Ph 0404215709

11 PVC pipes, 39" long x 6" diameter, $50 for the lot Ph 0428504301

12x6 Tandem flat top trailer $2000 Ph 0448814006

5 step platform ladder , galvanised, on wheels with brakes $450 Ph 53522691

6x4 trailer with cage, $900 ono Ph 0407285097

7x4 tool trailer, $3500 ono Ph 0407285097

Brick pavers , H shaped, beige colour, 1600 $800 Ph 0459027575 Stawell

Camper Trailer, all excellent condition $1500 Ph 0478254195

Camping Equipment, including as new Yamaha

2KVa inverter generator never used, aqua cube shower, porta potty, Komodo pantry, and clothesline $2500 Ph 0458683879

Electric trike, GC, new tyres, new batteries $750ono Ph 0407302144

Flat deck tandem trailer , 4.2m x 2.3m, $4500 onoPh 0407285097

Folding bike with training stand $350, Snow sled 1050x500 $45 Ph 0418992631

Galvanised trailer, 5x5 $800 Ph 53522691

Gold and opal ring, approx 80yrs old, current valuation $4500 would like $2500 Ph 0458014560

J Berends pasture harrows 8' $400 Ph 0429309491

Kirby Avalir 100th

Anniversary, EC, clean and functions perfectly, includes filter bags, brand new home care system, all attachments some brand new $750 Ph 0429679481

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

Round bale hay ring $350 Ph 0429200566

Sherwell PTO bin $1200 Ph 0428857312

Solar hot water panel dux, model 2AP, still in packaging $380 Ph 0407565985

Stereo $200, Outdoor setting $150, a round table and chairs

REDUCED $290, a beautiful organ paid $8000 selling for $3500, Chiffonier paid $950 selling for $350, ironing board $60, green leather couches,1 x 2 seater and 1 x 3 seater, pristine condition, paid $6500 sell for $4000, all needs to go by 27th October, Ph 53824788

Strongberg Carlson Console Radio, ex condition Ph 53824316

Tent Dune Eyre, 10x10, near new, easy set up for Easter Ph 0491644368 Horsham

Toro zero turn 42 inch deck, 2 years old, just had full service with new blades, great condition, less than 15hrs use, $6000ono Ph Tim 0418258787

15' fibreglass clinker inboard boat, no motor, make an offer Ph 0407179433

3.7 savage aluminium boat, UM198, 25 HP Mercury forward steer reyco trailer, b15834 electric motor and lawrence fish finder $2600 Ph 0428523919

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

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

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

& laminex

Ph 0409967815 Horsham

Freedom forearm walker

$250, wheelchair $150 Ph 0437600095

Invacare Pegasus mobility scooter, excellent condition, includes, shade canopy, front basket & rear carrier $3500 Ph 0408826727

Quickie electric wheelchair, hardly used, EC $16,000 neg Ph 0429881523

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

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

REDUCED BMW R1200RT Solo, 2007, Ex SA Police, GO, HGR, EWS, CC, RW cond, unregistered, service manuals $3000 Ph 0428154961

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

Landcruiser Prado 150 alloy nudge bar series 31/8/9 0, PZQ29 60420, serial# 0110 $155 Ph 53569340 or 0412482521 Landsborough

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

2005 SP Mazda 3 Hatch, 5 speed manual, power steering & aircon, black in colour, 1YD6TE, 19 3000km, RWC, $4500, Ph 0423335246

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

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

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

2008 PJ Ford Ranger Supercab C/C with alloy tray, tinted windows, side steps, driving lights, winch, tow mirrors, dual

,

manual,

torque, dual battery system, light bar, fridge slide, clearview mirrors, snorkel, excellent condition $19,000ono Ph 0428848203 Commodore VS Series 2 Ute, auto, very good order, 139,000kms, OFF349 $10,500 Ph 0427894200

2005 Isuzu NPR250 car license truck, 6 months rego, 230,000kms, 1OC9FA $22,500 Ph 0438521591

2014 Isuzu D-Max, 5 speed, auto, 3.0lt turbo diesel, 4x2, Tommy Gate loader 460kgs, RWC, reg til 19 /1/26, 285,658kms, 1DQ6HB $23,990 Ph 0466375088

2014 Toyota Hilux, 3 litre diesel, new shockers and springs and injectors, oil filter and oil every 600km, great for towing vans, 290,000kms $25,500 Ph 0417109816

2019 Ford Ranger XLS grey double cab with full screen, very good condition

125,000km, 8 mths rego, new tyres, snorkel, arb bull bar, air bags, side steps, black duck seat covers, under tray tool boxes, many extras always shedded, minimal towing $45,000 inc Gst Ph Andrew 0427923236

Nissan Navara ST 4x2 2018, automatic diesel, white color, very good condition, engine

2.3L 4Cyl, service car at 121,654km, canopy , front bar sport, one new tyre, towbar, one owner, registered til 28 June 2026 in Vic, 1PR4MJ, 150,500km $23,500 Ph 0434282826

Toyota Ute, no Ev tax on this one, dual cab SR5 auto transmission, 3 litre motor, diesel, 2011 model, RWC supplied, high rise canopy, tub liner, trailer pull, electric brakes, as new inside, 106,500 kms, YFK9 9 2 $32,500 Ph 0428 832 227

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

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

Ararat

Jill Nicholson went to Dover girls tech in the 60s Adelaide, lived 5 Broadway South Brighton left Adelaide to live in rural Victoria early 70s Ph John 0423315174

Stawell Lady recently moved to Stawell, interests include art, camping, ukulele, singing, bushwalking, dancing, looking for a respectable man for possible relationship aged between 60 -70yrs Ph 0413375338

3 bedroom house to share, near Horsham cbd, own walk in robe and ensuite, semi-furnished Ph 0427963906

Landcruiser ute with slide on camper, 2002, 4.2 litre diesel, 4x4, Millhaven tray towbar, bullbar, Superwinch, tool lockers, Polyair bellows, Davsher hitchhiker camper, new 90L, 3-way dometic fridge/freezer, fiamma awning, 2 burner gas cooktop/griller, sink,120kW fold up solar panels, 200W inverter, 200AH AGM house batteries, queen bed, robe, spacious storage, midge-mesh screening, Highjacker hydraulic legs, 2nd spare wheel, plus extras, excellent condition, 228, 9 61km, HZJ7 9 R Ph 0427482976

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

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

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

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

Sheep slaughtered at $15 per head Ph Andy 53838240

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

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

Wanted, Billy Goat service for 2 milking goats Ph 53840253

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

Design and Construction:

Norval Water Pump Station SAPS

Contract Number: C01461

GWMWater invites tender submissions for the design and construction of the Norval Water Pump Station Stand Alone Power System (SAPS).

The Contract includes the following scope of works:

> Design of a SAPS to power the Norval Water Pump Station.

> Supply and installation of approximately:

• 580 kWp solar photovoltaic generation system.

• 250 kW / 1.2 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS).

• 250 kVA diesel generator for backup power and peak load support.

> Testing and Commissioning of the completed SAPS.

> Maintenance and performance management of the SAPS for 24-months.

A non-compulsory site visit will be held at the site in Norval WPS from 11 am on Tuesday 7 October 2025. To register for this site inspection please contact GWMWater’s Project Manager Thiago Franca.

More information regarding this tender is available from the Buying for Victoria website, www.tenders.vic.gov.au

Enquiries may be directed to Thiago Franca, Project Manager at thiago.franca@gwmwater.org.au

Tender closes 2 pm, Friday 31 October 2025.

GWMWater reserves the right to accept tenders in part.

The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted.

Mark Williams Managing Director

GWMWater is an innovative water corporation providing, managing, operating and protecting water supply and sewerage systems within the Grampians, Wimmera and Mallee regions of Victoria.

11 McLachlan Street Horsham Call: 1300 659 961 (business hours) info@gwmwater.org.au | gwmwater.org.au

GWMWater invites tender submissions for the rehabilitation of Green Park Sewer Pump Station (SPS) Horsham and Nhill No 1 SPS. The works will be delivered in two Separable Portions. Work at the respective SPS’s includes, but is not limited to:

> Supplying all materials, equipment, plant, labour and accommodation for completion of the works.

> Undertaking designs, HAZOP, drawings and O&M manuals.

> Obtaining all appropriate permits and approvals.

> Install and operate bypass pumping systems.

> Conversion of existing dry well to a wet well arrangement.

> Removal of platforms, ladders, pipework, gantries valves and pumps from wells and disposal of waste.

> Reconfiguration of internal and external pipework.

> Installation of valve and flowmeter chambers.

> Installation of electrical and mechanical works (switchboards, pumps, lifting gear).

A non-compulsory site meeting will be held, commencing at Green Park SPS, Citrus Avenue, Horsham, on Wednesday 8 October 2025 at 11 am. Tenderers who wish to attend shall register with GWMWater’s Senior Project Engineer Nathan Harders.

More information regarding this tender is available from the Buying for Victoria website, www.tenders.vic.gov.au. Enquiries may be directed to Nathan Harders, Senior Project Engineer on nathan.harders@gwmwater.org.au

Tenders close 2 pm, Wednesday 22 October 2025. GWMWater reserves the right to accept tenders in part. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Mark Williams Managing Director

GWMWater invites tender submissions for the design and construction of the Donald Community Battery.

The Contract includes the following scope of works:

> Design and network connection approval for a ‘front-of-meter’

> Supply and installation of a BESS of up to 500 kW / 1,500

> Testing and commissioning of the completed BESS

> Maintenance and performance management of the BESS for

A non-compulsory site inspection will be held at the site in Donald from 11 am on Tuesday 14 October 2025. To register for this site inspection please contact GWMWater’s Project Manager Graeme Dick.

More information regarding this tender is available from the Buying for Victoria website,

Enquiries may be directed to Graeme Dick, Manager Strategic Infrastructure Projects at Tender closes 2 pm, Thursday 30 October 2025.

GWMWater reserves the right to accept tenders in part.

The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Mark Williams Managing Director

GWMWater is an innovative water corporation providing, managing, operating and protecting water supply and sewerage systems within the Grampians, Wimmera and Mallee regions of Victoria.

TOP STUDENT TUTORING, one-to-one individualised tutoring for Years 7-12 English, working with Children Check

email

Wimmera Mallee Environmental and Agricultural Protection Association Inc.

Australia’s

Employment type: Permanent full-time

Salary: $68,320.98 – $72,593.16 p.a. (including maintenance and industry allowances) | plus 12% superannuation | fortnightly RDOs | uniform and boot allowance | great team culture!

Love the outdoors? Enjoy working with machinery and making a visible impact in your community? Northern Grampians Shire Council is on the lookout for a motivated, hands-on Maintenance Employee/Plant Operator to join our St Arnaud team and help shape the spaces and places that locals love and visitors remember.

About the role: This is not your average job — it is for someone who thrives outdoors, values teamwork and takes pride in a job well done.

You will be: Operating plant and equipment for road and infrastructure works • keeping our community spaces safe, tidy, and in top condition

• helping deliver projects that enhance how we live, move, and connect

• carrying out routine maintenance, basic repairs, and inspections

• collaborating with a supportive and experienced crew.

Work hours you will love: Monday to Thursday, 7am to 4pm; Fridays, 7am to 3:30pm one week, RDO the next.

What we are looking for: If you are a reliable team player who brings energy, care and common sense to every job, you will fit right in.

Ideally, you will also have: Experience in civil works or outdoor maintenance • a valid Victorian Driver’s Licence (MR licence highly desirable)

• a current Construction Induction White Card (or equivalent) • competency with plant operation, or willingness to learn • a genuine commitment to safety and teamwork.

Why work with us? Because we don’t just build and maintain roads — we build great teams, strong communities, and careers that matter.

At Northern Grampians Shire Council, you will get: Regular RDOs –enjoy long weekends, more often

supportive work culture

respectful, down-to-earth people who have got your back

Accountant

Location: Green Taylor Partners – Horsham, VIC

Salary: Remunerated on experience

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

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

Why join us?

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

We offer:

A supportive team culture

Opportunities for growth and leadership

∙ Flexibility to suit your lifestyle

∙ A variety of work across different entities and industries

About the role:

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

Your day-to-day will include:

∙ Preparing and reviewing financial statements and tax returns

Tax planning and analysis

∙ Preparing BAS and assisting with clients business needs

∙ Applying technical accounting knowledge to client work

Who we’re looking for:

Accounting Cadetship – Start

Your Career Locally!

Location: Green Taylor Partners – Horsham, VIC

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

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

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

What We’re Looking For:

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

– we want someone with:

• A strong work ethic

• Self-motivation and initiative

• Clear communication skills

Why Choose Green Taylor Partners?

• Work locally in a respected professional firm

• Get hands-on experience and mentorship

• Join a team that values your growth and development

• We have a proven record with Cadets

How to Apply:

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

professional development – upskilling, tickets and pathways to grow

we get that life is not 9 to 5

flexible working options

we will keep you geared

Come join our team!

Horsham West and Haven Primary School’s vision is to empower all students to achieve their personal best.

Our mission is to maintain a community of learners who are happy and confident in their ability to learn, grow and succeed.

We are looking for teachers to join our dedicated team in 2026. Graduate, part-time and full-time teaching positions are available!

If you would like to discuss these opportunities further please contact Lee McKenzie 0438 824 580 or email your resume to: lee.mckenzie@education.vic.gov.au

∙ Prior experience in Australian Public Practice preferred

∙ Strong technical accounting skills

∙ High attention to detail and ability to work independently

Excellent communication and client service skills

SMSF compliance experience preferred but not essential

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

How to apply:

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

Please use the subject line: “Accountant application”

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

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

Subject line: Cadet application

Questions? Call Vicky McClure on (03) 5382 4761

Green Taylor Partners is proud to be an

Situations Vacant

JOIN OUR TEAM

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

Relief Transfer Station OperatorDimboola, Jeparit, Nhill and Rainbow Casual Salary commencing at $51.52 per hour (plus superannuation) Applications close 12noon on Wednesday 8 October 2025

Scan the QR code for details about this role and how to apply, or for more information, please visit: www.hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/ work-in-council

You can also contact our Customer Service Centre on (03) 5391 4444.

‘Way-out-west’ stables enjoy success

BY TONY LOGAN

Stawell Harness Racing Club

staged a seven-event card at Laidlaw Park last week and it was great to see several of the ‘way-out-west’ stables enjoying success.

Concongella owner-trainer Kenneth Taylor Jnr struck first blow for the ‘locals’ when his 12-year-old gelding Kempseys Delight led all the way in the Stawell Gift Hall of Fame Pace with James Herbertson aboard.

The 262-start veteran made light of the miles in its legs to notch up its 16th career victory and the first of the 2025 season.

The Kooreh-based McNaulty brothers’ stable was next to strike when concession reinsman Sean O’Sullivan piloted the five-year-old gelding Outmazing to capture the Stawell Times News Pace.

Shaun and Jason have done a great job with Outmazing to get him back to racing after an 18-month absence.

The son of champion stallion Bettors Delight (USA) was untroubled to score at Stawell, his fifth start in the McNaulty silks, in a rate of 1:55.6 for the 1785-metre journey.

Armstrong trainer Danny O’Brien combined with driver Kerryn Manning to land a running double at Stawell with a couple of smart youngsters, King Kasey and Rocknroll Willow.

King Kasey tackled a field of older

rivals in the Stawell Ag Horse and Pet Maiden Pace and led all the way at his third race start to score by two metres in a rate of 1:57.6.

‘KK’ is a half-brother to O’Briens former smart filly Im Princess Gemma, winner of 11 races in Australia before heading over to the US.

Now rising 11 years, the mare is still racing with a record of 48 wins and a bank of $681,787.

Stablemate Rocknroll Willow covered a stack of extra ground out of the gate and round the first turn before finding a spot outside the leader in the Gateway Security Pace.

The beautifully-bred filly showed plenty of fight over the final stages to score by two metres in a rate of 1:58.2 and keeping her record intact after saluting on debut at Ararat last month.

Racing at Bendigo

Bendigo raced as per usual on Wednesday night and Navarre horsewoman Marnie Bibby continued her run of good fortune with her sevenyear-old gelding Virginia Lightning.

Driver Luke Dunne led them out from the pole draw before electing to hand up as they headed into the first bend.

The $2.25 favourite raced kindly on the back of the leader and ran them down along the sprintlane in the final stages to score by 1.5-metres in a rate of 2:00.0 for the 2150-metre trip.

The son of Betterthancheddar USA has never raced better, with five of its

WIN: Hamilton trainer David Lewis, right, with driver Jackie Barker, stablehand Zander McGuire and race sponsor Allison Sullivan after the win of Ranger Rick in the Colliers Ballarat Pace on Thursday night. The former New Zealand gelding is raced by Horsham’s Terry and Jen Lewis.

17 career wins coming from 19 outings this season.

Bibby enjoyed another win later in the night as owner of three-year-old filly Emjay Jazz, which is trained for her by Julie Douglas.

Bellman in Ballarat

Ararat trainer Michael Bellman yoked up two runners for long time stable supporters, the Hull family, in the two-year-old trot at Ballarat on Thursday night.

At the finish of the 2200m journey Bellman crossed the line in fifth place with Rapta, after Jackie Barker aboard the stablemate Zoolu, had chased hard without success to catch the leader

Vance Lane and driver Kerryn Manning. However, after the race stewards elevated Zoolu to first place after the replay showed Vance Lane had swung into the pacing gait shortly before the post.

The daughter of Father Patrick (US) and Mizurri is a two-time winner after scoring on debut at Bendigo last month.

Stawell trainer-driver Jason Ainsworth landed a longshot winner in the opener at Ballarat when nine-year-old gelding Amore Rock took out the 40 to one.

Hamilton horseman David Lewis and driver Jackie Barker combined to

take out the last at Ballarat with sixyear-old gelding Ranger Rick.

Raced by Horsham’s Terry and Jenny Lewis, Ranger Rick has been only lightly raced since going amiss after a first up victory for the team at Horsham in March 2022.

Lewis has worked miracles to get the gelding back to the races this season for 12 outings resulting in four wins and six placings and hopefully further success in a $15,000 final at Melton Saturday night.

Melton action

Friday night harness action was at Melton, where Kerryn Manning’s smart three-year-old filly Surfe La Mer took her record to six wins from 14 starts with a strong performance against older rivals. The filly made a long sustained run, three wide from the 800m mark and scored in 1:54.6 for the 1785m sprint trip.

Harness headquarters raced again on Saturday and saw Horsham horseman Aaron Dunn land the cash with his three-year-old gelding Ruff Nut. Dunn was intent to get to the lead with the son of Poster Boy out of the gate, but had to do plenty of work in the early stages before crossing to the pegs at the head of affairs.

The combo then got a much-needed, mid-race breather and Ruff Nut had enough in reserve to hold on over the last bit and score by the barest of margins in a photo finish.

Weekdays from 6am

Awards shining spotlight on juniors

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

Round 12

Harrow-Balmoral footballer Thomas Penny is a young footballer with wonderful sportsmanship qualities. He is always looking to support his team-mates and improve his teams performance by leading from the front. He has a natural ability with the ball and his leadership among the playing group never falters, win or lose. Thomas loves playing with his mates and being involved with everyone around the club. Thomas is pictured with Horsham Detective Leading Senior Constable Tim Crick.

Thomas Hotker – WFNL

Minyip-Murtoa footballer Thomas Hotker, pictured with Horsham police officer and MinyipMurtoa stalwart Angie Clark, brings relentless effort and determination to every game, always striving to improve and support his team-mates. He gives 100 per cent effort on game day and is respectful of all team-mates, opposition and umpires. Off the field, Tom leads by example with a positive attitude and a willingness to help around the club. He is a highly respected and valued member of the Minyip-Murtoa club.

Round 13

Pimpinio footballer Brydon McPhee has spent his whole football life at Pimpinio, right through from Auskick to being a triple premiership player with the under 17s. While he is well known for loving kicking goals, he has proven his versatility this year by slotting into other positions around the ground when required – acknowledging that the young team he leads need his leadership up the ground. Brydon has always taken his turn to volunteer, whether it be running water or doing the boundary. Brydon is pictured with Blue Ribbon Foundation’s Les Power.

Roxana Monaghan-Angelats – WFNL

Stawell netballer Roxana Monaghan-Angelats’s bubbly nature is the heart and soul of the Warriors’ 17s team. She is determined, respectful, eager and loves a challenge. Her polite and positive attitude towards officials, team-mates and her opponents is one that is looked upon for all the right reasons. Roxy is always up for a challenge and will always give 110 per cent. This is Roxy’s first year of 17s and she continues to give it nothing but her all every week. She is pictured with Stawell Constable Stephenson.

Round 14

Abbey Williams – HDFNL

Kalkee netballer Abbey Williams said she started her netball career in 2016 in the NetSet Go program. “I feel very honoured to receive such an award today,” she said. “I have loved playing netball with my friends and for my club. Throughout this time I have been fortunate enough to play in five grand-finals, of which we won three. During my time at Kalkee I have been so lucky to be supported by the best people who have helped me become the netballer I am today. I could not have asked for better role models or team-mates.”

August Koch – HDFNL

Laharum footballer August Koch, pictured with Blue Ribbon co-ordinator Les Power, is a most selfless player. He is an absolute pleasure to coach and is always looking to improve his game where possible. He relishes different roles when they are presented to him. Recently, he has been asked to play in the higher grades of football due to number shortages and certainly has not looked out of place. Off the field, he is always willing to volunteer when asked to, a credit to him and his family. August certainly is a well-loved member of his club.

Round 15

Thomas Penny – HDFNL

Brydon McPhee – HDFNL

Pimpinio netballer Stella Williams, pictured with Blue Ribbon Foundation co-ordinator Les Power, embodies the club’s values and the Spirit of Netball in her efforts, sportsmanship and respect.

Will Chamings – WFNL

Ararat footballer Will Chamings is a skilled and dedicated member of the team. He always puts the team first. He shows leadership on the ground as well as directing the younger members of the team with game strategy. In relation to duties and club related activities, Will is always willing to put his hand up. He is pictured with Ararat Constable Jason McGrath.

Ashleigh Sudholz – HDFNL

Rupanyup netballer Ashleigh Sudholz, pictured with Blue Ribbon Foundation’s Les Power, truly embodies the spirit of netball. Ashleigh plays the game with a smile on her face, a positive attitude, and a love for being out on the court. She’s happy to be thrown into any position, giving her all no matter where she plays. Her enjoyment of the game, willingness to adapt, and commitment to her team make her a shining example of what netball and the Blue Ribbon Award is all about.

Madison Heller – WFNL Warrack Eagles netballer Madison Heller has played most of her junior games in the midcourt, but this year she’s been thrown into goal defence. She works well with her team-mates and takes on direction from her coaches and senior players. She is pictured with Warracknabeal Senior Constable Laren Cole

Stella Williams – HDFNL

Best-and-fairest

Encouragement award

Hockey celebrations

BY SIMON KING

Hockey Association concluded its season by celebrating individual achievers after its premier teams were crowned.

The leaderboards across all of the awards featured a mix of regular recipients along with some new faces, and while many of the trophies were won by comfortable margins, there was still plenty of interest coming late in the counts for the runner-up title.

Of the four best-and-fairest trophies awarded, only one went to a first-time winner, with Sean Pedie of Yanac Warriors polling 70 votes, 15 ahead of runner-up Oliver Bone of Nhill Leopards. Jonas Beattie, Kaniva Raiders, was a further six votes behind.

Warracknabeal’s Ellie Williamson won the under-16 girls’ best and fairest trophy for the third consecutive season, after being a joint winner in 2023 and outright winner last year, receiving 76 votes. Lacy Cramer, Yanac Warriors, earned the runner-up trophy with 48 votes.

Erin Alexander, Yanac, won the women’s best and fairest for an impressive eighth time with 77 votes, ahead of 2022 winner, Brooke McMaster, Dimboola Roos, with 53, and Kendra Clark, Nhill Thunderbirds, with 42 votes.

The open best and fairest award went to Lachlan Mills, Kaniva Cobras, for the second consecutive year, when he polled 54 votes.

In a close finish for runners-up, there were three players within reach going

into the last round. Bradley Alexander, Yanac Tigers, and Traiyth Leffler, Horsham Hurricanes, were both on 28 votes, and Todd Alexander, Yanac Tigers, was still in contention further back on 25.

In round 15, Leffler polled one vote in his team’s draw with Cobras, Bradley Alexander received two votes when the Tigers defeated the Rangers, but in a best-on-ground performance, Todd Alexander earned the maximum six votes and leap-frogged into second place by one vote.

The leading goal scorer in the open division was Todd Alexander, who received the award for the third time, with nine goals, and in the women’s competition, Caitlyn Alexander, Yanac, scored 24 goals, one ahead of Jennie Hauselberger, Dimboola Roos. Henry Zanker, Yanac Warriors, was the leading boys’ under-16 goal scorer with 22 goals, and Imogen Hedt, Yanac Warriors, was the highest scoring girl with six.

The leading goalkeepers in each competition were recognised, with Henry Gill, Nhill Rangers, receiving the open division trophy, Erin Wallace, Nhill Thunderbirds, the women’s competition trophy, and Rebecca-May Williams, Dimboola Kangaroos, was the best across the under-16 competition.

der-16 competition, and also stepped up to play goalkeeper for the Warrack Hoops in the open division for several matches. Madisson won the under-16 goalkeeper of the year award in 2024 and was second this year, finishing just three votes behind the winner.

The umpire encouragement award was presented to Charlie White, Kaniva, who took up umpiring several seasons ago and is establishing himself as a fair and well-respected official, officiating in 17 matches this season, the second-most of any umpire in 2025.

The WHA encouragement and recognition awards are presented to recognise contributions across a variety of areas, including representing the association beyond the local competition, supporting hockey activities at the club or association level over several years, and being a positive role model for others involved in the sport.

Under-16: Back, from left, Annie Anderson Memorial goalkeeper encouragement award winner Madisson Bentley, Warracknabeal, girls’ best-and-fairest Ellie Williamson, Warrack Revengers, boys’ bestand-fairest Sean Pedie, Yanac Warriors, runner-up Oliver Bone, Nhill Leopards, and leading goal scorer Henry Zanker, Yanac Warriors, and front, girls’ leading goal scorer Imogen Hedt, Yanac Warriors, runner-up best-and-fairest Lacy Cramer, Yanac Warriors, and under-16 goalkeeper of the year Rebecca-May Williams, Dimboola Kangaroos.

RECOGNITION: Senior award recipient Kate Williamson, Warracknabeal, junior encouragement award winner, Victoria

The Annie Anderson memorial goalkeeper encouragement award, presented in memory of Annie Anderson, a beloved figure in the hockey community across the state, went to Madisson Bentley, who played for the Warracknabeal Revengers in the un-

The under-16 encouragement award went to Victoria Ward of Dimboola. After taking up the sport in the under12 development program in 2018, Victoria played in both the under-16 and women’s competitions this year, as well as representing the Wimmera at the Junior Country Championships, and was selected to play in the Junior State Championships before a broken hand kept her out of the tournament, although she still attended to support her team-mates. She is also a keen mentor of her club’s under-12 players.

The senior recognition awards went to Kate Williamson, Warracknabeal, for her tireless work supporting her club’s and the association’s under-16

and under-12 programs, and Simon Farmers, Yanac, for his many years of service to the Yanac club and the association, including time as vice-president and president of the association.

The evening also included the annual general meeting, where the team to lead the association for the next 12 months was elected. The roles will

be filled by Brad Alexander, Yanac, as president, Jennie Hauselberger, Dimboola, as vice-president, Donna Krelle, Kaniva, as secretary/treasurer, Rachel Clark, Nhill, as records secretary and historian, and Simon King, Warracknabeal, as media co-ordinator. Horsham will provide the umpires’ convenor.

TUCKERS SPRING CATALOGUE

OPEN:

Lachie Mills, Kaniva Cobras, runner-up best-and-fairest and leading goal scorer Todd Alexander, Yanac Tigers, and goalkeeper of the year Henry Gill, Kaniva Cobras.

UMPIRE:

winner Charlie White, Kaniva.

WOMEN: Leading goal scorer Caitlyn Alexander, Yanac, best-and-fairest Erin Alexander, Yanac, goalkeeper of the year Erin Wallace, Nhill Thunderbirds, and runner-up best-and-fairest Brooke McMaster, Dimboola Roos.

Ward, Dimboola, and senior recognition award winner, Simon Farmers, Yanac.

from 6am

Blizzard launches appeal

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Ararat’s Sarah Blizzard is calling for public support as she chases her dream of Olympic qualification – and much like in her chosen sport of bobsleigh, all she needs is a push to get her going.

Blizzard is in Europe as she prepares for her seventh season of International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation, ISBF, competition, with results from the upcoming season to double as qualification for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy.

But, competing in a sport that receives little support from the Australian government, the 28-year-old said much of the fundraising burden fell on her.

“Unfortunately it’s mostly selffunded. Less than 10 per cent of my season would be supported by government funding,” she said.

“Over here in Europe all the teams are getting money, but it’s not a sport that really gets shown in Australia compared to some of the other sports.

“Winter sports obviously aren’t as big in Australia, and even within the winter-sport community there are so many different levels of funding.”

Blizzard launched an online fundraising page for her team’s upcoming 2025-26 season via the Australian Sports Foundation, with a goal of raising $20,000. As of yesterday the page had collected about $15,000 in donations.

“The reason behind this fundraiser was because we wanted to buy some new equipment for the sled. It seems like a lot for equipment if you don’t know the sport of bobsleigh, but it’s for the runners on the sled,” she said.

“If you ever watch bobsleigh, they’re the metal things on the bottom of the sled that connect you to the ice. They’re not blades; a lot of people think that they’re blades, but they’re not sharp at all – they’re rounded.

“They cost about $12,000 to $15,000, and the rest of the money raised will also go towards other equipment that we’re buying.

“I only have one set of runners, whereas most teams will have five or six sets, because they’re all different and there’s such a big variety of conditions that you can use them for.”

OLYMPIC GOAL: Bobsleigh athlete

Sarah Blizzard, of Ararat, is appealing for financial support to help her reach her Olympic dream.

Blizzard said she disliked asking people for money, only doing so because she competed in ‘a ridiculously expensive sport’.

But she said strong results in the upcoming season could help her attract new sponsors, as well as advancing her Olympic ambitions.

She said Queensland-based Morse Building Consultancy had donated $13,000 to her fundraiser before backing her as a permanent sponsor.

“They’ve donated a big chunk, but even before that people had donated quite generous amounts,” she said.

“I think the key thing is that any amount is helpful, whether it’s $2 or $5, it helps us because it does add up.”

Blizzard previously traveled with the two-woman Australian bobsleigh team to the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics as an injury alternate, but did not compete at the games.

Since then she has taken on a new

role in the sport and has set her sights on full Olympic qualification.

“I started as a brakeman in 2019, so I was in the back of the sled,” she said.

“After the last Olympics where I was an alternate I decided to start piloting, so I’m the one in the front of the sled and I’m the one in charge of steering.

“This latest Olympic cycle has all been based around me piloting and hopefully qualifying.”

Blizzard said she was ‘keeping positive’ about her Olympic dream despite facing a tough qualification process on the ISBF circuit.

“Qualifying starts in October from the first race of the season and it goes through until January 18. The Olympics are in February, so it’s not much of a turnaround time,” she said.

“Every race that you do you get points for, and depending on whether you’re in the World Cup circuit or the lower-level Europe Cup circuit, that

determines the amount of points that are available for your position in the race. The more points you get, the higher you are in the rankings, and the higher you are in the rankings the more likely you are to be selected for the Olympics.

“I’m trying to be positive because I know we definitely have a chance to qualify, but everything needs to go well, and unfortunately in this sport a lot of things can go wrong.

“Bad luck happens to every team though, so you never know. Based on last season’s results we would qualify for the two-woman sled, so we just need to wait and see. I’ll keep my fingers crossed.”

People can donate to Blizzard’s fundraising page at asf.org.au/projects/ sarah-blizzard/bobteam-blizzardsequipment-fund-for-202526-season.

People can also follow her progress on social media at www.facebook. com/sarahblizzardaus.

Muszkieta home

John Muszkieta’s pigeon won Horsham Racing Pigeon Club’s 232-kilometre race from Melton on Friday from 119 other birds, in an average of 57 kilometres an hour.

Brian Watts’ leading entry placed second, averaging 53kph, with third taken by John Aisbett’s leading entry at 50kph.

The north-to-north-westerly wind varied from 15 to 31kph, its influence on average velocities evident.

The gap between the winner and second and third was 19 and 35 minutes respectively. Bloodlines and fitness come into play in head wind races.

There will be two races at the weekend, on the north line from Packsaddle and from Tibooburra, both in New South Wales.

Modified tennis

Central Wimmera Tennis Association will begin a junior match play program, with modified court size, net height and lowercompression balls, on October 10, with all other junior sections starting on October 11.

Match play competitions sections five and six will play on Friday nights, all played at one venue rotated between Horsham Lawn, Haven, and Central Park tennis clubs.

Anyone interested in learning more about tennis player pathways or getting their child into tennis can contact association secretary Sharon Clough on 0438 823 971.

Price wins croquet

Shirley Price won Horsham Golf Croquet’s division one competition on Saturday, ahead of runner-up Marg Pope.

Rachel Cousins won division two, with June Liddy runner-up, and Robyn Devlin won division three ahead of Lorna Mills. Thursday’s event saw Glenn Price win division one, with Gary Devlin runner-up. Rob Bahr won division two ahead of Rachel Cousins, and Joy Smith won division three. Robyn Devlin was runner-up.

National champs

Horsham Pony Club riders will represent Victoria when they compete at the Pony Club Australian Ranvet National Championships at Werribee next week.

Kylie Fiedler will compete in the open advanced dressage on Matthias, Asha Fielder in the junior novice dressage on Dudley, and Iris Sudholz in the open 1.05m eventing championships on River.

The championships are at Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre from September 30 until October 5.

Junior championships

BY DAVID BERRY

Volleyball Horsham will send six teams into battle at this weekend’s junior country championships in Horsham.

A six-week training program has prepared the teams for a full-on assault against teams representing associations from Geelong, Goulburn Valley, Macedon Ranges, South Gippsland, Sunraysia and Warrnambool across three age groups – under 15, 17 and 19 in male and female divisions.

Volleyball Horsham will be out to defend its under-19 girls’ gold medal from last year, while the two under-17 teams will be looking to go one better than their silver medals.

In a pleasing result, under-15 competitions will be held this year for the first time, with Horsham, Sunraysia and Macedon Ranges sending their stars of tomorrow to experience their first country championships.

Volleyball Victoria general manager Cori Wilder said the growth in numbers participating in the newlook event was a positive going forward.

“To have a 50 per cent increase speaks volumes for the work the associations are putting into their junior development,” he said.

“Having the event over a long weekend enables the competition to be played under championship con-

ditions, which is great for the participants to experience, especially those who have not played country championships before.”

Volleyball Horsham under-15 boys’ coach Tim Carter is excited for the prospects of his young team.

“The boys have been training the house down and have taken on board what we have been trying to teach them, with great enthusiasm,” he said.

“I can’t wait to see what they can produce on the weekend. What we do know is that Sunraysia will be a good side.”

The under-19 boys’ competition has six teams spearheaded by reigning gold medalists Warrnambool.

Volleyball Horsham under-19 boys’ coach Oscar Jackman is keen on the chances of his team improving on last year’s losing bronzemedal effort.

“The majority of the boys have been playing as a team in our A Grade competition and have been putting up good showings against experienced sides,” he said.

“The experience they have gained from playing in senior country championships over the past two years should also stand them in good stead.”

All eyes will be on the under-19 girls as they defend their gold-medal winning result from last year.

Coach Molly Carter has no ex-

pectations on her team as they have introduced four new players since beating Sunraysia last year.

“We have experience in Paige Hemley, Clare Whyte and Alex Bebero, while I’m looking forward to seeing how new players in Rhianna Williams, Matilda Horvat and Mikaela Wright perform,” she said.

“I know Sunraysia, Latrobe Valley and Goulburn Valley will have strong teams, so we need to ensure we hit the ground running.”

The championships start on Friday with the under-19 boys fronting up against Warrnambool at 8am at the basketball stadium, while the under-17 boys will take on Sunraysia at the same time at St Brigid’s College.

The opening ceremony will be at 1.30pm at Horsham basketball stadium. Horsham Arts Council’s Henry Overman will perform the National Anthem.

Competition continues on Saturday from 9am at both venues, with medal matches on Sunday from 8am.

The closing ceremony, where medals will be awarded along with All Star Sevens and referee of the tournament awards will be at the basketball stadium from 2pm.

Volleyball Horsham royalty will be well represented at the presentations with Hall of Fame members, former country championships All Stars and games record holders all part of the ceremony.

Brought to you by The Morning Crew Weekdays from 6am to 9am

Madeline Castleman.

First step to state titles

Hundreds of junior female gymnasts were in the Wimmera at the weekend as they gathered for the Gymnastics Victoria West Regional Championships at Natimuk.

Natimuk and District Gymnastic Club hosted the competition, which serves as a qualifying event for the state championships, for the second consecutive year, with head coach Lynette Morrow dubbing it ‘a big success’.

“We had 230-plus kids competing across Saturday and Sunday, so it was a good weekend for the club,” she said.

“We had about 10 clubs represented from our region, and members of Gymnastics Victoria came from Melbourne to help run it, which was good.”

The championships saw girls across

levels three through seven of junior competition compete, with Natimuk athletes experiencing success.

A local club team won the level six division three teams category, with Madeline Castleman also topping the individual standings.

A Natimuk team also won the level four, division three team category, edging out eight other teams.

Morrow said she was proud of the club’s competitors.

“All our girls competed well, but no one will know whether they’ve qualified for the state championships until Gymnastics Victoria collates all the results and puts it out. That will be a couple of weeks away,” she said.

National Police Remembrance Day 2025

National Police Remembrance Day 2025

National Police Remembrance Day is commemorated on Monday 29th September 2025 and honours the memory of Police Officers who have died in the line of duty in Australia in service between September 2024 and September 2025

National Police Remembrance Day is commemorated on Monday 29th September 2025 and honours the memory of Police Officers who have died in the line of duty in Australia in service between September 2024 and September 2025

You are invited to the Horsham Police Remembrance Day Service to be held at St Michael and John’s Catholic Church, Corner of McLachlan and Urquhart Streets, Horsham

You are invited to the Horsham Police Remembrance Day Service to be held at St Michael and John’s Catholic Church, Corner of McLachlan and Urquhart Streets, Horsham

Monday 29th September 2025- Commencing at 10:00am

Monday 29th September 2025- Commencing at 10:00am

Acting Inspector Ed die Malpas of the Police Wimmera Division extends an invitation to you to attend the Remembrance Service and morning tea thereafter.

Acting Inspector Ed die Malpas of the Police Wimmera Division extends an invitation to you to attend the Remembrance Service and morning tea thereafter.

SUCCESS: Natimuk and District Gymnastic Club’s level six division three champion team, from left, Lauren Rudolph, Elsa Drendel and

Nhill’s team of champions

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

While Nhill’s under-14 football team fell one kick short of a premiership in Saturday’s Wimmera league grand final, the players are champions in the eyes of their community.

Coach Jack Mason admitted the Tigers might not have been able to field an under-14 team at all if not for an influx of players from Karen migrant families.

Nhill’s growing Karen population – an ethnic group from south-east Myanmar – has for years been hailed as a regional success story, with migrants now making up more than 10 per cent of the town’s population and helping keep businesses such as the Luv-a-Duck poultry farm running.

Mason said the youngest generation of Karen boys had been equally instrumental in helping the football club’s junior program not only survive, but thrive, with the Tigers reaching an under-14 grand final for the first time in 27 years.

“We probably wouldn’t have a team without them. We had about seven or eight Karen kids in the team this year, which was great,” he said.

“It’s really rewarding to be able to see their growth. At the start a lot of them didn’t really know the rules and it was the first time they’d kicked a football.

“Then for them to be able to get

to a grand final is out of this world, really.”

The Tigers’ season ended with a 4.4 (28) to 3.5 (23) defeat at the hands of Horsham in the grand final, but Mason said the team had achieved beyond his wildest expectations.

“We thought it would be a development year to get the boys’ skills up and about and then next year we’d hopefully be able to push,” he said.

“We were 1-5 after seven rounds and then they beat Ararat, who were sitting on top of the ladder at the time, and we thought ‘hang on, maybe there is something here’.

“Their improvement was amazing. They just flicked a switch.

“I’m extremely proud of all the boys. From where they came from to where they got to was huge, and to be within a kick of a premiership this year – I couldn’t be prouder of them.”

Adding to what Mason described as ‘100 per cent a multicultural success story’ is the emergence of Douglas Lunga, the son of Zimbabwean migrants who was named among the Tigers’ best players in each of their four finals.

“He played his first year of football last year. He’s just a natural,” Mason said.

The coach said many of the team’s foreign-born players had become crowd favourites for the Nhill com-

REWARDING: Nhill under-14 football coach Jack Mason addresses his players at half time of their preliminary final win against Ararat.

munity, with diminutive youngster Phyo Phyo Kine drawing cheers from the Tiger faithful with every possession.

“Him and Gay Soe Gay Soe can’t speak English, but everyone loves them,” Mason said.

“There are a couple of Karen boys who speak English and Karen, so I use them a bit to translate.

“Those two are very good at watching what’s happening and what to do, and then they go do it. The boys are also very helpful with telling them where to go and what to do.

“Opposition umpires have been really good as well. Our umpire will tell them we’ve got one or two boys in the side who don’t speak much English, and they’ve been really understanding with that.”

Regardless of on-field results, Ma-

son said he had simply been thrilled to watch new players discover a passion for the game.

“They take on feedback really well. If you say ‘do this’, they’ll do it. They’re like sponges,” he said.

“A few of the Karen boys have played footy since Auskick, so I think those boys helped to get a few more on board. Since then I think there’s beginning to be a bit more of a change locally in the culture with our Karen people – it used to always be ‘soccer, soccer, soccer’ and they’d just be kicking the soccer ball around at lunch, but now they’re all kicking the footy.

“You drive past the footy oval and there’s always boys out there having a kick of the footy, and that’s been really rewarding to see.”

Light upgrades

A $250,000 grant from the State Government will upgrade oval lighting at Minyip Recreation Reserve.

The lights will be competition-standard 100 lux LED – in what will be another major boost for Minyip-Murtoa Football Netball Club, who received major government grants last year to upgrade their netball courts and facilities at both their Murtoa and Minyip home grounds. Cavendish Recreation Reserve will also receive more than $242,000 for an oval lighting upgrade.

Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence announced last week that nine recipients would share in more than $1.5-million from the 2025-26 Country Football and Netball Program – as well as announcing a new round of grants had opened.

Developed in partnership with the AFL, AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria the program has invested more than $43-million and delivered more than 590 projects since 2005.

“Finals time highlights just how important local grounds are to local communities and these grants will ensure clubs have the facilities they deserve close to home,” Ms Spence said.

Applications for the new round of grants for the 2026-27 Country Football Netball Program close on February 26, 2026. Councils can apply for grants of up to $250,000 for sports infrastructure developments including court lighting upgrades, changeroom overhauls, new pavilions and more.

For the latest information and successful grant recipients visit sport.vic.gov.au.

By Lauren Henry

Wimmera league

GRAND FINAL: Ararat celebrated a three-peat on Saturday, winning the senior football premiership against Southern Mallee Thunder. Pictured in action, clockwise from above: Thunder’s Patrick GraceLong pressures Henry Shea, Ararat; Ararat co-coach and best-on-ground Tom Williamson and his dad Allister; Jackson Fisher tackles Ben Taylor; Ararat’s Cody Lindsay; Baydn Cosgriff grabs Reid Polak’s leg to stop him tumbling over the fence; James Jennings chases Sam White; and centre, Naish McRoberts.

By Lauren Henry

A GRADE GRAND FINAL: Horsham Saints defeated Horsham Demons in the A Grade grand final on Saturday, 80-43. Pictured, clockwise from left, Lena Marshman, Saints, receives the Spirit of Netball award; Marshman defends Zarli Knight; Ashlee Grace; a relieved Saints team celebrates the win; the Saints 13-andunder team cheer on their coach Jorja Clode; Abby Hallam, and centre, Megan Byrne.

By Lauren Henry

Wimmera league

RESERVES:

Under-14:

UNDER-17: Horsham Saints 19.11 (125) defeated Horsham Demons 6.5 (41). Beston-ground, Max

MinyipMurtoa 9.2 (56) defeated Ararat 8.5 (53) in a thrilling football grand final on Saturday. Best-onground, Jordan Weyburg.

Inkster.

Horsham Demons 4.4 (28) defeated Nhill 3.5 (23). Beston-ground, Chavi Sulic.

SPIRIT OF FOOTBALL: Blue Ribbon Foundation Victorian Spirit of Football 2025 player of the year winner Henry Walsgott, Horsham Demons, receives his award from Leanne Thompson, Paul Margetts and Les Power.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

Commercial Waste Solutions for

13-AND-UNDER: Horsham Demons defeated Stawell 45-19. Best-on-court, Adele Tucker.

17-AND-UNDER: Horsham Saints defeated Horsham Demons 48-39. Best, Lena Marshman. C RESERVE: Stawell defeated Horsham Saints 34-24. Best-on-court, Madi Freeland.

15-AND-UNDER: Horsham Saints defeated Horsham Demons 39-16. Best-on-court, Olivia Taylor.

C GRADE: Horsham Saints defeated Horsham Demons 35-33. Best-on-court, Lottie Sordello. B GRADE: Horsham Demons defeated Horsham Saints 39-38. Best-on-court, Georgia Baxter.

By Lauren Henry

Wimmera league

Williamson stars in Ararat three-peat

Ararat’s third consecutive Wimmera league premiership was achieved in emphatic style, led by a dominant performance by co-coach Tom Williamson.

With just one point the difference at half time at Anzac Park, Warracknabeal, the Rats served up a punishing second half to outscore Southern Mallee Thunder 61-10.

After going through the home-andaway season undefeated, Ararat lost a fiery second semi-final to the Thunder – a match that saw Williamson given two yellow cards – the second for an incident that remains under investigation by AFL Victoria.

The loss also meant the Rats needed a preliminary final win over Nhill to make the grand final, which they did comfortably by 57 points.

To add to its less-than-ideal buildup, Ararat went into the grand final without two of its best players – Wimmera league best under-21 player for 2025, Sonny Kettle, and key goalscorer Jack Ganley.

In a low-scoring first quarter, the Thunder kicked with a strong breeze but only kicked two majors, while Williamson kept the Rats in touch with one goal.

With just eight points separating them, the second quarter opened with Naish McRoberts kicking a goal from close to the boundary before Williamson slotted his second to put the Rats in front by five points.

The breeze at Anzac Park calmed down in the second term as the crowd was uncharacteristically quiet at times – maybe waiting in anticipation for some fiery encounters.

The Thunder – through Reece Groves and Xavier Oakley – kicked two in a row to take the lead back, but Williamson’s third goal put the Rats in front 29-28 at halftime.

A superb goal on the run by Brody Griffin opened up proceedings in the third quarter, but after a quick reply from the Thunder, the crowd was set for another goal-for-goal term.

However, when the game was there to be won, Ararat showed its strength.

Goals from ruckman Cody Lindsey

and 2025 Toohey medallist Ben Taylor – also crucial around the stoppages – gave the Rats a handy 15-point lead. Ararat was starting to gain the upper hand, and when Williamson kicked his fourth in front of an adoring forward pocket of Rats fans, it gave the sense the top side all season was not going to let the game slip through its fingers.

Angus Dewar, Kieran Delahunty, Simon Clugston, and Coleman Schache were better performers in the Thunder’s attack, but Ararat’s defence held strong.

Particularly in the third term, the Rats’ defenders were superb, with plenty of intercept marks and looseball gets, causing plenty of headaches for the Thunder forwards.

When Griffin snapped his second goal, the Rats took a 26-point lead into three-quarter time.

It was all Ararat in the fourth term, scoring 4.5 to Thunder’s two points,

as Williamson added another two to his tally to kick six for the day – tellingly more than the Thunder’s entire score.

Williamson was awarded the Binns Medal for a best-on-ground performance, while Hugh Toner won the best under-21 player for the match.

Amazing win

Co-coach Tom Mills – who will step away from coaching next season but remain at the club as a player – described the win as amazing.

“I think there’s only two of us who did not play juniors at the club who played today, so as you can imagine, it means a lot – when you grow up in a club, everyone that’s involved, it means so much to give back to those people as well, it’s huge for us as players,” he said.

Mills paid tribute to his co-coach, who led from the front.

“ He’s a star every week. You can

see why the players love him because he just leads from the front,” he said.

“When he is telling you to do something and he’s doing it out there himself, all you can do is follow him – he was amazing, really proud of him.”

In the first half, Williamson duelled with Thunder captain and league runner-up best-and-fairest winner Billy Lloyd, creating a top-class battle at stoppages.

“Billy has got a really good craft in there so I took it upon myself to go head to head with him. He’s a fantastic player – he is consistently up there in the Toohey Medal and credit to him,” Williamson said after the game.

The co-coach pointed to the efforts of his defenders, led by James Jennings, Harry Ganley and Ethan Summers.

“It’s pretty evident in our games, if they can squeeze, we can get territory and the way they set up behind the ball was second to none –  that second half just felt like anything that went in there was coming straight back out or was intercepted,” he said.

Williamson described the team’s performance as ‘awesome’ and thanked the club for its support in light of the investigation.

“Obviously it’s been a challenging few weeks, but us as a club, how we conducted ourselves, I couldn’t be

more proud of ‘Hock’ (club president David Hosking), all the way down to our last player on our list,” he said. At the post-match presentation, an emotional Hosking – who has led his club under pressure in the past month during the A Grade netball scoring fiasco, which levelled significant criticism towards the league board, and then through the second semi-final and ensuing Williamson investigation – thanked his club.

“To our supporters, you have been so fantastic forever, but particularly in the last few years and the way that you’ve got behind us as an organisation in the last few weeks has been fantastic and we are stronger than ever and we’re gonna do this again,” he said.

“To our players who rightly get the medals and put on the show – our players are fantastic, not just at football, but at life, and I’m incredibly proud of them.

“I’m proud of the way that they conduct themselves as human beings.

“I’m proud of the way they carry themselves and how they’ve behaved in the last few weeks under a fair bit of pressure and duress, and that’s when you find out how good your people are, and ours are first class.”

ON THE BOARD: Brody Griffin kicked two goals for Ararat in its premiership win against Southern Mallee Thunder.

NOTED: Ararat’s Hugh Toner won the best under-21 player in the grand final match against Southern Mallee Thunder.

Sensational Saints’ season

Horsham Saints finished as premiers and champions with a clinical, professional display in the Wimmera league A Grade netball grand final on Saturday.

The Saints were a class above in the 80-43 win over Horsham Demons, strong from the outset as they dominated the first quarter to jump out to a 21-9 lead.

Both sides started the match with their usual starting seven – the Saints’ dominance resulted in them seeing out the game unchanged, while the Demons made several positional changes in a bid to seek an advantage.

But the Saints had winners all over the court.

It was a blistering first half by the undefeated side as they increased their lead to 41-16 at half-time.

Goalers Jorja Clode and Abby Hallam starred in attack, shooting goals from everywhere, earning the praises of the crowd, particularly Clode’s own cheersquad – the 13-and-under team she coaches – who came complete with custom-made t-shirts, signs, streamers and chants.

The two young Saints defenders –Lena Marshman and Maddi Bethune, who had just won a 17-and-under premiership in the game prior – stood up against the experienced Demons goalers.

What they lacked in height, Marsh-

man and Bethune made up for in netball smarts, with close checking and reading the play to effect.

Meanwhile, the Demons were scrambling – bringing on 17-andunder player Zarli Knight into goal attack, while running three different players through the centre in an effort to combat Saints star and 2025 Hatcher medallist Ash Grace.

But it was the Saints’ day, as they shot out to a 57-30 lead by threequarter time.

Hallam, in goal attack, was in top form, showing her athleticism out in front, as well as sinking long bombs – ultimately earning her the best-oncourt medal.

Clode shot a long-range goal to start the fourth quarter, going towards her 57 goals for the match, and the Saints had soon doubled the Demons’ score.

Horsham tried everything to match the Saints, with more positional changes, but to no avail – nothing was going to stop the determined Saints.

It was the total opposite to last year’s grand final, where the Demons held on in a close match.

A relieved but proud Saints coach Vernetta Taylor said it was a teameffort by all seven players.

“ I knew that we had the talent, I knew we had the game, the team to get to take it out, but we had to be able to bring it on the day, and you never know what is going to present,”

she said. “We know that Horsham Demons are so experienced when it comes to finals and that it was not going to be an easy job, so we really had to be focused, switched on from the first whistle.

“I couldn’t be prouder of my girls because they went out there and really made sure that it wasn’t going to go any other way.”

Taylor was glowing in her praise for Marshman and Bethune in defence.

“They both did a beautiful job and it was that defensive pressure that enabled us to get the turnovers that our goals converted, so it was wonderful,” she said.

Taylor said a special part of the team was that all players had been developed through the Saints’ junior program.

She hoped to hold onto all players for next season, but with so much talent, there was no guarantee.

“We were only focused on this season, we wanted to just give it our full attention,” she said.

“But yes, I would say that the conversations will start pretty quickly.”

The Saints were the dominant club in the netball grand finals on Saturday, winning C Grade, 17-and-under and 15-and-under.

The Demons won B Grade and 13and-under, while Stawell won C Reserve.

ON TARGET: Saints’ Jorja Clode, guarded by Demon Ebony Salter, shot 57 goals for the match.

DETERMINED: Saints’ Lena Marshman and Maddi Bethune surround Horsham Demons goal attack Georgia Batson. Marshman and Bethune were part of the 17-and-under premiership team in the game prior.

STRENGTH: Saints’ Megan Byrne looks to pass around Keely Pope, Horsham Demons.

Country cups calendar

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

The 2025-26 Spring Racing Carnival will begin in the Wimmera with the Murtoa Cup on October 4.

Benalla and Coleraine cup days officially kickstart the country cups season on Friday, with 26 feature country cups to be celebrated throughout the next three months.

Country Racing Victoria is encouraging people to head along with friends and family, and take in one or more of the race day events, which create a great day out for not only nearby residents but people far and wide.

Iconic destinations such as Manangatang, Wycheproof and Dunkeld host their once-a-year meetings, swelling their town’s population by up to 10 times for their respective race days.

For Murtoa, the Ecycle Solutions Murtoa Cup is part of the Murtoa BIG Weekend, with plenty of activities available to enjoy a long weekend.

The Murtoa Cup will feature Exquisit Fashions on the Field, live music, children’s activities including a jumping castle and facepainting, plus food trucks.

There is also a variety of hospitality packages on offer, which often attract groups such as bucks’

and hens’ parties, birthday celebrations, and reunions, but can also cater for individuals.

Other north-west Victorian race days on the country cups calendar are: Saturday, October 11, Manangatang and Hamilton; Sunday October 19, Horsham; Saturday October 25, St Arnaud; Saturday November 1, Wycheproof; Sunday, November 9, Ararat; and Saturday November 15, Dunkeld.

Country Racing Victoria chief executive Scott Whiteman said

CRV had redistributed prizemoney levels to increase 30 country cup feature races across the 2025-26 season.

“Prizemoney increases to the respective cups will elevate the quality of racing, and give participants extra incentive to target country cups,” he said.

“We saw crowd numbers spike last season with racegoers enjoying all the fun and action-packed racing that a day at the country races is renowned for, and look

forward to welcoming Victorians and visitors to race tracks around the state this spring.”

Country Racing Victoria’s spring campaign, As Real as it Gets, highlights the relaxed nature of a day at the races in the country, where people can enjoy a range of entertainment options. For tickets and more information to any country race days, visit country.racing.com.

Tennis roadshow set to tour region

A Tennis Victoria program offering club players, leaders and volunteers chances to broaden their skill sets will visit Ararat and Horsham next month.

As part of the Sustainable Regional Tennis, SRT, Roadshow, Tennis Victoria officials will offer training in areas including coaching, programs and advocacy, as well as information on new and expanded participation programs.

The SRT Roadshow will visit Ararat on Thursday, October 9 and Horsham on Friday, October 10.

Tennis Victoria chief executive Kim Kachel said all new clubs to sign up for the Hot Shots Volunteer Delivered and Cardio Volunteer Delivered programs – both outlined as part of the roadshow – would have their program fees covered for the first year.

She said the roadshow was designed for new and existing volunteers, clubs, assistant coaches, young local leaders and community champions, with coaches and tennis school officials also welcome to attend.

“Through the Sustainable Regional Tennis project we’re redefining what it means to volunteer,” she said.

“This roadshow is about creating supported pathways for people to get involved in tennis whether as a coach, club volunteer, or community champion.

“By covering program fees, offering training, and backing volunteers every step of the way, we’re making sure regional tennis has the people and programs it needs to thrive.”

For more information on the roadshow and the Sustainable Regional Tennis project, as well as a full list of tour dates and locations, people can visit tennis.com.au/vic.

Airconditioning & Refrigeration Apprenticeship

Horsham – Applications close: ASAP

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

• PPE supplied & maintained annually

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

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

Is this you?

• Able to work at heights & in various weather conditions

• Have a Construction Induction White Card

• Current driver’s licence and reliable transport

For more information, please contact Daryl Eastwell on 0407 364 654.

General Labourer / Plant Operator

Horsham – Applications close: ASAP

• Reputable locally owned civil construction company

• Upskilling available for the right candidate

• Full time role with Over Time

Support civil works through machinery operation, labouring, and truck driving. Must be fit, ticketed, and ready to grow with a respected local team.

Requirements:

• HR Truck Licence (HC preferred)

• White Card

• Plant tickets and experience

For more information contact Tamira Cullinan on 0408 109 324 for a confidential discussion.

Carpentry Apprenticeship

Horsham – Applications close: ASAP

• Government incentives available for eligible apprentices

• PPE supplied & maintained annually

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

Step into a career in Carpentry! Join a local Horsham business, learn on the job and build future-ready skills in a highdemand trade.

Is this you?

• Ability to work at heights

• Have a current driver’s licence or close to receiving one

• Have a Construction Induction White Card

For more information, please contact Daryl Eastwell on 0407 364 654.

Seasonal Harvest Intake 2025/2026

Horsham – Applications close: ASAP

• Casual position – Monday to Friday shifts

• Students, Back packers & Grey nomads encouraged

• Training provided, no prior experience necessary Casual workers required for seasonal roles in Horsham & Longerenong. No prior experience required, just a great attitude and willingness to work hard! Is this you?

• Reliable, flexible availability and able to work at short notice

• Positive attitude and willingness to learn

• Comfortable working outdoors in varying conditions

For more information contact Tamira Cullinan on 0408 109 324 for a confidential discussion.

Glass & Glazing Apprenticeship

Horsham – Applications close: ASAP

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

• PPE supplied & maintained annually

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

Begin your career in Glass & Glazing! Join a skilled team, learn on the job and build future-ready skills in a high-demand trade.

Requirements:

• Willing to obtain a Working with Children’s Check

• Willing to obtain a Police Check

• Willing to obtain a White Card

For more information, please contact Brendan Schier on 0427 346 655.

Qualified Mechanic

Donald – Applications close: ASAP

• Permanent role based in Regional Victoria

• Attractive annual salary negotiable

• No weekend work, Mon-Fri

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a customer focused and family-owned business. If you like hands on work, are physically fit and keen for a fresh start, apply today.

Requirements:

• Trade Qualified Light Vehicle Mechanic

• Current Drivers Licence with the ability to drive manual vehicles

• Experience servicing Ford vehicles preferred

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

TIGHT: Fred Kersley on Dublin Journal, left, won the 2024 Horsham Cup in a thriller from Jack Hill on Station One. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

1.1 4.5 9.8 13.13 (91)

Premiership team: Back, from left, Graeme Johnson, Hugh Toner, Patrick Toner, Ben Taylor, Tom Mills, Tom Williamson, Riley Taylor, Harry Ganley and Liam Arnott; centre, Reggie Robinson, Jake Robinson, Jim Jennings, Henry Shea, Cody Lindsay, Xavier McLoughlin, Luke Spalding and Matthew Spalding; and front, Henry Bates, Oscar Dadswell, Naish McRoberts, Bobby Batchelor, Ethan Summers, Brody Griffin, Brayden Draffin, Adam Haslett, Baydn Cosgriff, Max Batchelor and Charlie Ganley.

Jake Robinson

Hugh Toner

Southern Mallee Thunder

2.3 4.4 5.6 5.8 (38)

Best-on-ground:

Goals: Ararat, Tom Williamson 6, Brody Griffin, Naish McRoberts 2, Ben Taylor, Hugh Toner, Cody Lindsay. Southern Mallee Thunder, Xavier Oakley, Angus McSweyn, Kai Sheers, Coleman Schache, Reece Groves.

Best: Ararat, Jim Jennings, Harry Ganley, Ethan Summers, Ben Taylor, Baydn Cosgriff, Riley Taylor. Southern Mallee Thunder, Angus Dewar, Kieran Delahunty, Simon Clugston, Coleman Schache, Health Smith, Sam White. Best-on-ground: Tom Williamson, Ararat. Best under-21 player: Hugh Toner, Ararat.

Brody Griffin

Tom Williamson