SHENANIGANS: Henley on Lake Wallace’s parade was a highlight of Edenhope’s annual event, along with fireworks, and family and novelty activities. Committee president Hugh Caldow said the 102-yearold tradition was popular.
“It’s really well-supported –a lot of ex-locals use this as their weekend to come back to Edenhope, they always know they’re going to catch up with old friends and family.” Jack Cranage, pictured, joins in the fun. More pictures, page 27. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
BY LAUREN HENRY
Police have withdrawn charges against WIM Resource employee Murray Wilson, just days before a scheduled court hearing.
Mr Wilson had planned to contest four charges of falsifying documents at a hearing set for today and tomorrow at Horsham Magistrates’ Court.
But at a special mention hearing on Monday, it was agreed by the prosecution and defence to abridge matters to yesterday, where all four charges were withdrawn due to ‘insufficient evidence’.
The charges against Mr Wilson related to May 26, 2023, where he was accused of making a false document
with the intention to use it to induce members of the Avonbank Mineral Sands Project Inquiry and Advisory Committee, as part of the Environmental Effects Statement process to approve the Avonbank mineral sands mine at Dooen.
Mr Wilson was accused of creating documents in the names of four people without their permission.
In a statement from Victoria Police yesterday, a spokesperson said Horsham Crime Investigation Unit detectives had conducted a thorough investigation into allegations that documents were fraudulently prepared and submitted as part of a proposed mining project.
“All evidence was reviewed and
assessed by prosecution,” the spokesperson said.
“The charge was withdrawn at court as it was determined there was insufficient evidence to successfully prosecute the person charged in relation to this matter.”
WIM Resource had suspended Mr Wilson pending the outcome of the case.
In a statement released by WIM Resource yesterday, it said it acknowledged the decision by police to withdraw all charges against its employee.
“We respect the judicial process and note that the matter before the court is now finalised with no finding having been made against the employee,” the statement read.
“The Avonbank Mineral Sands Project remains subject to a comprehensive and independent regulatory framework and continues to progress in accordance with all approval requirements.
“WIM remains focused on delivering the project responsibly and transparently, and on working constructively with government, regulators and the community as the project advances.”
Earlier court hearings detailed there were four complainants in the case, with 25 people on the police’s list of witnesses – most of whom would not be called to provide evidence.
The prosecution’s case was to rely on key evidence being assessed by Victoria Police’s cybercrime unit, fol-
lowing the seizure of a mobile phone and laptop.
Detectives executed a warrant at a Horsham home in February, 2025, as part of the investigation, where Mr Wilson was arrested at the scene and later interviewed.
He was charged in July with the alleged offences.
State Government body, Resources Victoria, is expected to release a decision on the approval of a mining licence for the Avonbank mineral sands mine next month.
The Avonbank mine, located 1.3 kilometres northeast of Dooen, spans 3426 hectares, with the project to be staged over 38 years.
Prepare for an evening of the very best in ballet as The Australian Ballet performs some of their favourite pieces in the highly anticipated return of Ballet Under the Stars.
The free, family friendly event is heading to Horsham in 2026, where audiences of all ages can enjoy the thrill of live performance under the starry night sky at Horsham Recreation Reserve.
Thousands are expected to flock to the heart of Horsham to enjoy a warm summer evening in the company of friends, family and world-class performers.
There’s still time to get your tickets.
Admission to event is free, but booking is recommended. Scan the QR code to secure your spot.
Plan your evening
From Monday 16 February until the end of March, some residents may receive a phone call inviting them to share their views about Council services and facilities.
Taking part is completely voluntary and all responses are confidential.
The survey will be conducted by independent research company TKW Research, who will clearly identify themselves at the beginning of the call. All survey calls will come from a mobile number.
For your reassurance:
•Callers will not ask for you by name
•The survey is anonymous
•You will not be asked for sensitive personal information
If you receive a call, we encourage you to take part. Your feedback will help shape the services and programs that matter most to our community.
Thank you for helping us improve our community.
Was your property damaged in the January Bushfires?
BlazeAid base camp established at Natimuk Recreation Reserve
With volunteers on the ground and ready to help, they are calling on property owners impacted by the recent fires to register their properties for assistance.
Who is BlazeAid?
BlazeAid is a volunteer-based charity that supports rural communities in rebuilding after natural disasters, including bushfires, cyclones and floods.
What do they do?
BlazeAid focuses on clearing and rebuilding farm fencing. They establish a base camp within the local community and coordinate teams of volunteers to assist property owners.
How can I register?
Contact Local Coordinator Ell on 0439 890 538 Or email: natimuk@blazeaid.com.au
Natimuk Agricultural and Pastoral Society receives Community Grant Ballet Under The
Due to the high projected turnout, overflow parking will be available at the Horsham Aquatic Centre car park (450m walk) and the Horsham Showgrounds (900m walk).
Parking and walking routes are plotted on the map below.
Local cafe Larder by Lyn are offering picnic platters of cheeses, continental meats, crispbreads, antipasto and fruit to enjoy while watching the Ballet.
Simply pre-order your platter on their website, and then pick your order up from their shop on the day of the Ballet Under The Stars event from 5-7pm.
Platters are $55 for two people, or $100 for four people.
Visit the Larder by Lyn website or scan the QR code to reserve yours.
With the support of a Horsham Rural City Council Community Development Grant in 2025, the Natimuk Agricultural and Pastoral Society has installed a concrete floor in its multi-purpose shearing facility at the Natimuk Showground.
The new flooring is a significant upgrade to the community asset, improving accessibility and addressing previous safety concerns. The concrete surface covers three bays at the eastern end of the recently constructed facility, enhancing its functionality for a wide range of users.
The Natimuk Showground is home to 10 user groups and has recently provided critical support to the community. The shearing facility was extensively used by organisations such as BlazeAid following the recent bushfires and also housed power generators during periods of outage.
The facility is central to the Natimuk Show Annual Shearing Competition and will also host the Show’s Fleece and Grain competitions. Planning is already underway for the 2026 Annual Natimuk Show, which will include the official opening of the upgraded facility on Saturday 28 March.
The 2026 Community Development Grants are now open and close at 5pm on Monday 2 March.
Want a grant for your community project?
Community projects can apply for grants of between $500 and $10,000.
For a full list of requirments and considerations, visit the Community Grants page on the HRCC website or scan the QR code.
BY LAUREN HENRY
In an historic milestone for the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk people, the Wotjobaluk Nations formally entered Treaty negotiations with the State Government on Monday.
The Wotjobaluk Nations are now part of the Victorian Treaty Authority’s Treaty Negotiations Register, enabling them to be recognised in negotiating policies and solutions for better health, housing and education outcomes.
At a meeting in August, 2025, Wotjobaluk Nations native title holders unanimously voted for Barengi Gadjin Land Council to act as their federal and state representative to enter into Treaty negotiations.
BGLC chairperson Chris Harrison said Treaty was an opportunity to listen, learn, and affirm ‘the rightful place of first peoples as decisionmakers of their own futures’.
Twenty six little munchkins will feature in the children’s ensemble of Horsham Arts Council’s The Wizard of Oz production.
Performed across eight shows at Horsham Town Hall, the production starts with opening night on April 30. Harriet Overman will play the lead role of Dorothy, with Darcy Hogan, Scarecrow; Noah Wineberg, Tinman; and Noah Mibus, Cowardly Lion.
The Wicked Witch will be played by Stacey Brennan, Glinda the good witch by Jessica Wilson, and the Wizard of Oz by Simon Dandy.
The cast gathered on Sunday to rehearse for the production, which honours the 1939 film featuring iconic characters and unforgettable songs. Dandy, also co-executive producer, said the children’s ensemble included 26 children aged from five to 12 years. They would form two casts to perform in alternate shows.
“They’ve been coming out the last three weeks – it’s just amazing to have the kids here,” Dandy said.
“They’re the future for our organisation, so it’s good to have them on
“Treaty is important because it underpins the policies that impact first peoples and their families. For too long, laws and policies have been made about first peoples, without any input from first peoples,” he said.
“When first peoples lead the way to design policies and solutions, we get better outcomes across areas like health, housing and education.”
Mr Harrison said it was ‘a proud and deeply significant moment’ for the Wotjobaluk Nations people.
“Our Treaty must reflect Wotjobaluk Nations peoples, our values and our aspirations,” he said.
“Our mob, with elders and community leaders, began this journey more than 30 years ago, seeking recognition of our enduring connection to country and our rights as traditional owners.
“What they achieved has changed the course of history in Victoria. From recognition of our Native Title in 2005 through to our Recognition and Settlement Agreement in 2022, and now
“Our mob, with elders and community leaders, began this journey more than 30 years ago, seeking recognition of our enduring connection to country and our rights as traditional owners”
– Chris Harrison
looking to Treaty, we are continuing that legacy through building a future grounded in culture, authority and self-determination.”
Wotjobaluk Nations people started preparation of their Native Title claim in 1995, and in 2005 became the first traditional owners in south-eastern Australia to receive a positive Native Title Determination – a landmark achievement that reshaped the landscape for recognition of traditional owner rights in Victoria.
Mr Harrison said the statewide Treaty was important as it covered matters
that affected all Indigenous people in Victoria.
“However a local traditional owner treaty relates to matters that are important to traditional owners in our region,” he said.
“Treaty will ensure that traditional owners of the Wotjobaluk Nations are fairly treated as rightholders.
“Even though that is already recognised, a Treaty will further ensure this happens.”
Mr Harrison said Treaty represented the progression and process for the Wotjobaluk Nations, building on their past actions and legacies of elders and community leaders.
“Treaty is about walking forward together, with the Wotjobaluk Nations and the broader First Nations community,” he said.
“It is about recognising the truth of our shared history and creating stronger foundations for the future –for our children, and for all children growing up on this country.
“This is good for traditional owners, this is good for First Nations peoples and it is good for Victoria.
“When First Nations communities are strong in culture, governance and opportunity, our entire region benefits.”
Registration on the Treaty Negotiations Register is a formal procedural step administered by the Victorian Treaty Authority.
It confirms that required minimum standards to enter into Treaty negotiations have been met and enables the next step toward allowing formal negotiations to commence.
The next step will be to formally notify the Treaty authority of the intention to establish a Treaty delegation – a representative body that will lead negotiations on behalf of the Wotjobaluk Nations.
BGLC will continue to engage closely with community throughout negotiations.
stage. It’s all fun and games at the moment, but obviously there’s a bit of work to be done.
“They haven’t seen it yet, but the hard work pays off with the reward that you get when you’re on stage.”
Dandy said an old adage used in entertainment circles could not be avoided with the family-friendly production.
“They say in theatre ‘never work with kids and animals’ – well, we’ve
got 26 kids and a dog,” he said.
“Honestly, it’s just a pleasure to have them around. It’s just awesome.”
Dandy said The Wizard of Oz was also a breakout role for Overman, playing Dorothy.
“Harriet’s been in lots of shows, but this is her first main role,” he said.
“This is massive – she’s in it all the time and she’s incredible.”
Tickets will go on sale via Horsham Town Hall website on February 26.
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BY LAUREN HENRY
Horsham will be the epicentre of events in the Wimmera in coming weeks, with the spotlight on The Australian Ballet on Saturday evening.
Horsham City Oval will be transformed from hosting its usual football and cricket matches to providing a stage for Ballet Under the Stars.
The free, family-friendly event will provide a rare opportunity to see Australia’s national ballet company in this unique outdoor setting.
The entertainment begins early with ‘class on stage’ where you can peek behind the curtain and watch dancers warm up for the evening’s performance to live piano by company pianist Peter Brikmanis.
Artistic director David Hallberg said
The Australian Ballet would perform some of their favourite pieces, covering the classic fan-favourites and more contemporary works.
“We’re so excited to bring Ballet Under the Stars to Horsham, the furthest this program has ever travelled in Victoria,” he said.
“There’s something uniquely special about seeing the company perform outdoors. Audiences will see the breadth of the company, the talent, strength and world-class athleticism of our dancers in works that are thrilling, beautiful and fun.”
Gates open at 4.30pm with pre-show activities and entertainment beginning at 5.30pm for a 7.45pm performance.
Additionally, for those who are interested in learning more about ballet, The Australian Ballet’s education and
outreach team invites people of all ages to try a free dance class.
Classes for children aged 3-5 and for seniors will be on Friday, with an adult ballet class on Saturday.
There will also be an opportunity for people aged 13-18 to take part in a curtain-raiser to the main performance.
People can find more information at australianballet.com.au/performances/ ballet-under-the-stars.
Also on Saturday night is the Horsham Blue Ribbon Foundation annual fundraising ball.
The ball, at Horsham Town Hall, attracts hundreds of people to enjoy a night out with a three-course meal, live entertainment and access to raffles and auctions.
All money raised goes toward pur-
FLIPPIN’ HAPPY:
Uniting Wimmera hosted a Shrove Tuesday event yesterday at May Park, Horsham, featuring empowerment coach Sally Pymer, above right, as guest speaker. The event also doubled as a fundraiser to support suicide awareness in the region. Pictured right are pancakemakers Mark Potter, Glenn Kimberley and Tim Jolley, while, above left, Jess Boschen and Lily Materne enjoy the food on offer. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER
chasing equipment for Grampians Health’s Horsham hospital.
Another event in Horsham this weekend is the Hot Summer Nights Rod Run, with the public able to catch a glimpse of the classic cars during the Saturday night cruise, along Firebrace Street from 5pm.
A Show ’n Shine follows on Sunday, from 9am to 1pm, at Horsham Soundshell where people can take a good look at the cars on show, with a gold coin donation appreciated or for those who want to enter a car, the cost is $10.
The events do not stop there with the 150km Feast kicking off festivities on Thursday, February 26 with a gin party.
From 5pm to 7.30pm in The Stables at Horsham’s Maydale Reserve, there
will be a free ticketed event for those wanting to enjoy the pop-up gin party, featuring Casterton Distilling Co.
The 150km feast continues on Saturday, February 28, from 12.30pm to 11pm, where six wineries, a brewery and a cocktail van will be set up on the lawns at the Maydale Reserve to allow people to farewell the Wimmera summer.
There will be street food, live music by Levi Mellington, Zara Nichols and Doin Time, and a children’s play area, with tickets costing $15 online or $20 on the day. Children under 18 can enter free of charge.
Dinner Under the Stars, from 5pm in an exclusive area at Maydale, will feature a five-course meal and drinks. Sales for dinner tickets, costing $175, close tomorrow at 8pm.
St Arnaud Arts Council is among 13 community groups across Victoria to receive a State Government grant through the latest round of the Small Regional Presenters Program.
The grants support more live performances and creative workshops in local venues, with not-for-profit organisations being supported to attract high quality artists to regional venues while building local skills and growing creative talent.
St Arnaud Arts Council will present a three-day residency with actor and comedian Damian Callinan – gathering stories and culminating in an evening of storytelling with a performance by the St Arnaud Citizens Band.
Creative Industries Minister Colin Brooks said the program was a government initiative delivered by Regional Arts Victoria.
For more information, or to see the full list of 2025 recipients, people can visit creative.vic.gov.au.
A man in his 40s was airlifted to The Alfred on Wednesday last week, after sustaining upper body injuries at a premises on Horsham’s Golf Course Road.
A specialist Air Ambulance Victoria helicopter crew, Advanced Life Support and Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance paramedics assessed and treated him at the scene before he was transported. He was in a critical condition.
Preparation of a new Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy is underway and you can play a role in its development.
Sustainable Water Strategies are an important opportunity for the community and stakeholders to shape plans to secure our water supplies, improve efficient use of water, and protect waterways and water values into a drier and warmer future. The strategy will cover the western third of Victoria, extending from the south-west coast to the southern Mallee and includes the towns of Colac, Warrnambool, Portland, Port Campbell, Hamilton, Ouyen, Horsham, Avoca, Stawell, Ararat and Edenhope.
The development of the strategy includes getting input through a Consultative Committee from representatives of regional agencies with responsibilities and accountability in water management. Supporting this Committee will be community working groups.
Communities in western Victoria will have opportunities to be involved through local meetings and submissions to strategy documents. Regional peak bodies will be invited to join working groups commencing mid-2026 and continuing through 2027.
We are seeking expressions of interest from community members who have knowledge and experience in water supply and quality matters for economic, cultural, environmental and social (recreational) values to participate in a working group to guide strategy development.
The working group is expected to meet approximately four to six times through to the end of 2027. Meetings will be hybrid (options for in person or online attendance).
Expressions of interest in working group membership close on 16 March 2026.
If you want to learn more about the strategy and how you can participate, including via the expression of interest process email SWS.Team@deeca.vic.gov.au, visit water.vic.gov.au or contact our Customer Service Centre 136 186.
WOTJOBALUK, JAADWA, JADAWADJALI, JUPAGULK, WERGAIA (WJJWJ)
NATIVE TITLE HOLDERS, DESCENDANTS OF ARTHUR WELLINGTON, AND ANY PERSON WHO MAY HOLD NATIVE TITLE
First Nations Legal and Research Services (FNLRS) and Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC (BGLC) are organising two authorisation meetings on the same day.
AUTHORISATION MEETING 1:
THIS NOTICE INVITES ALL WJJWJ Native Title Holders (as described in this notice – see below) recognised by the Federal Court of Australia on 13 December 2005 in Clarke on behalf of the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk Peoples v State of Victoria [2005] FCA 1795 (WJJWJ Determination) to attend a full group authorisation meeting on the time and date noted below.
e purpose of Authorisation Meeting 1 is for the WJJWJ Native Title Holders to consider and decide whether to authorise (consent to) BGLC entering into: a Deed of Variation of the Recognition and Settlement Agreement (RSA) entered into under the Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010 (Vic) (TOS Act) in 2022; a Land Use Activity Agreement (LUAA) under the TOS Act; and an associated Body Corporate Indigenous Land Use Agreement (Body Corporate ILUA) under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth). e area of the Body Corporate ILUA is the area where native title was determined to exist or not exist in 2005 and is shown on the map below.
e key proposed decisions to be made in this authorisation meeting 1 1 CONFIRM the decision-making process to be used for making decisions at this meeting.
2. AUTHORISE BGLC to enter into the RSA Deed of Variation, LUAA and Body Corporate ILUA.
3. CONFIRM BGLC as the traditional owner group entity for the LUAA under the TOS Act. Venue: Assembly Hall, Dimboola Memorial Secondary College, 66 Ellerman Street Dimboola, Victoria, Australia, 3414 When: 10am-midday, Saturday 14 March 2026
AUTHORISATION MEETING 2:
THIS NOTICE INVITES ALL WJJWJ Native Title Holders (as described in this notice –see below), the descendants of Arthur Wellington, and any other person who may hold native title in the area of the proposed agreement (anyone who asserts native title rights but is not a WJJWJ Native Title Holder or a descendant of Arthur Wellington) to attend an authorisation meeting at the time and on the date noted below.
e purpose of Authorisation Meeting 2 is for the WJJWJ Native Title Holders, the descendants of Arthur Wellington, and any other person who may hold native title in the area of the proposed agreement to consider and decide whether to authorise (consent to) BGLC and nominated representatives of the authorising group to enter into an Area Agreement Indigenous Land Use
Agreement (Area Agreement ILUA) under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth). e area of the proposedArea Agreement ILUA is shown on the map below.
e key proposed decisions to be made in this authorisation meeting 2 are:
1. CONFIRM the decision-making process for making decisions at the meeting.
2. AUTHORISE BGLC to enter into the RSA Deed of Variation, LUAA, and Area Agreement ILUA.
3. AUTHORISE nominated representatives to enter into the Area Agreement ILUA.
4. CONFIRM BGLC as the traditional owner group entity for the LUAA under the TOS Act. Venue: Assembly Hall, Dimboola Memorial Secondary College, 66 Ellerman Street Dimboola, Victoria, Australia, 3414
When: 2pm-4pm, Saturday 14 March 2026
is meeting is an in-person event. To register to attend Authorisation Meeting 2 and to seek support for travel and accommodation, WJJWJ Native Title Holders and descendants of Arthur Wellington should contact the BGLC o ce on (03) 5381 0977 or fullgroup@bglc.com.au by no later than 4pm on Friday 6 March 2026
Any person who asserts to be a person who holds or may hold native title in the proposed Area Agreement ILUA area who wishes to register to attend Authorisation Meeting 2, and to seek support for travel and accommodation, should contact Kieren Murray at FNLRS on (03) 9321 5300 or Kieren.Murray@fnlrs.com.au. Please contact FNLRS if you are un-
is meeting is an in-person event. To register to attend Authorisation Meeting 1 and to seek support for travel and accommodation, WJJWJ Native Title Holders should contact the BGLC o ce on (03) 5381 0977 or email fullgroup@bglc.com.au by no later than 4pm on Friday 6 March 2026. Please contact Kieren FNLRS on (03) 9321 5300 or kieren. Murray@fnlrs.com.au if you are uncertain about whether you are eligible to attend this meeting. Registration prior to the meeting is vital to ensure you are eligible to attend the meeting.
NOTE: e Area Agreement ILUA will apply to all Crown Land within the outer boundary that is not subject to a native title determination. Undetermined Crown Land parcels are located throughout the area. Please contact FNLRS on (03) 9321 5300 or Kieren. Murray@fnlrs.com.au for further details.
NOTE: The Area Agreement ILUA will apply to all Crown Land within the outer boundary that subject to a native title determination. Undetermined Crown Land parcels are located through the area. Please contact FNLRS on (03) 9321 5300 or Kieren.Murray@fnlrs.com.au for further
WJJWJ Native Title Holders means the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadwadjali, Wergaia and Jupagalk Aboriginal persons, being persons:
WJJWJ Native Title Holders means the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadwadjali, Wergaia and Jupagalk Aboriginal persons, being persons:
(a) who are accepted in accordance with their traditional laws and customs as descended from one of the following Wotjobaluk ancestors:
• Richard Kennedy born circa 1853 at Morton Plains;
(a) who are accepted in accordance with their traditional laws and customs as descended one of the following Wotjobaluk ancestors:
• Captain Harrison Senior born circa 1838 at Donald;
• Archibald Pepper born circa 1859 at Nypo Station;
• omas Marks born circa 1844 at Lake Hindmarsh;
• Richard Kennedy born circa 1853 at Morton Plains;
• Pelham Cameron born circa 1854 at Morton Plains;
• Captain Harrison Senior born circa 1838 at Donald;
Corporate ILUA area is shown in light brown and pink shading, and includes Wyperfeld
NOTE: Body Corporate ILUA area is shown in light brown and pink shading, and includes Wyperfeld National Park, Big Desert National Park, Little Desert National Park, Black Range National Park, Lake Albacutya, Lake Hindmarsh and Wimmera River.
• Archibald Pepper born circa 1859 at Nypo Station;
• Albert Coombes born circa 1852 of Antwerp;
Big Desert National Park, Little Desert National Park, Black Range National Park, Lake Lake Hindmarsh and Wimmera River.
• Thomas Marks born circa 1844 at Lake Hindmarsh;
• Pelham Cameron born circa 1854 at Morton Plains;
• Augusta Robinson born circa 1855 at Richardson River; and (b) who acknowledge and observe Wotjobaluk traditional laws and customs.
• Albert Coombes born circa 1852 of Antwerp;
• Augusta Robinson born circa 1855 at Richardson River; and
BY LAUREN HENRY
Angus Taylor is the new Liberal leader, with Member for Wannon Dan Tehan among politicians to put their hands up to take over the party’s leadership at last week’s vote.
Mr Tehan’s bid for deputy leader was unsuccessful, as the party room voted for Victorian Senator Jane Hume.
Sussan Ley said she would quit politics in coming weeks after losing the leadership, forcing a by-election in the Farrer electorate, a seat she has held for the past 25 years.
She was the first woman to be elected leader of the Liberals – a tenure that lasted nine months.
Mr Tehan congratulated Mr Taylor and Ms Hume on the result.
Horsham College has announced its cast for the 2026 production of Frozen.
More than 50 students auditioned for the production, making the panel’s decision process ‘extremely challenging’.
The play is based on the Disney movie where sisters Elsa and Anna are torn apart by a mysterious secret power, resulting in each setting out on their own journey of courage, self-acceptance, and a discovery of love in all its forms.
The lead role of Elsa is played by Arky Hopper, while Anna will be played by Violet McGennisken.
Other main roles include Henry Overman as Kristoff, Clara Shirrefs as Olaf, and Jhustine Fabia, Hans.
Year nine student Lola Bales,14, who will play young Elsa, said she was looking forward to her third production at the college.
“For 15 minutes in the first bit of the show, I play young Elsa and then Anna has a tiny little flashback that
He said he put himself forward for the deputy leader position because the party needed people who could ‘bring us together’.
“We need strong policies that really resonate with the Australian people. We have to make ourselves election ready now,” he said.
Mr Tehan also congratulated Ms Ley on the ‘terrific role that she’s undertaken in very difficult circumstances’.
“These things are not personal, they’re just about who ultimately in the end the party room thinks can do the best job, and the party room decided and you’ve just got to smile and get on with it – that’s exactly what I intend to do,” he said.
“I’d like to thank all the people in Wannon because it’s only through them putting their trust in me that
I can be in the position to stand for deputy leader, and I’ll never forget that my number one responsibility is to them.”
On Thursday afternoon, Mr Tehan tendered his resignation as shadow minister for energy and emissions reduction and acting shadow minister for resources and northern Australia. He also announced he would nominate for the deputy leader position.
“This is not a decision I have taken lightly,” he said.
“If I am successful, there are four priorities I will make my focus.
“We need to immediately unify, hold this dreadful Albanese Labor government to account, develop a policy manifesto true to our values and make us match fit to win elections.”
Mr Taylor, 59, comes to the leader-
ship after having previously served as shadow treasurer, and shadow minister for industry, energy, emissions reduction and defence, and was Minister for Law Enforcement and Cyber Securities under Malcolm Turnbull.
He has been the Member for Hume, southwest of Sydney, since 2013 and before that, was a director at Port Jackson Partners and a partner at global consulting firm McKinsey and Co.
Mr Taylor, the son of a cattle farmer, has a Bachelor of Economics and a Bachelor of Law from the University of Sydney, and has a Master of Philosophy in Economics from the University of Oxford, where he studied as a Rhodes Scholar.
He takes on the role after months of division in the Liberal party, having split with Coalition partner The
FROZEN: Queen, Isabella Iuele, Little Elsa, Lola Bales, Little Anna, Sophia Gerdtz and King, Isaac Gregor rehearse for Horsham College’s production of Frozen.
we’re on for maybe a few seconds later,” she said.
Young Anna is played by year-eight student Sophia Gerdtz, 13, in her first Horsham College play.
Both students agreed their love of the movie Frozen had made it easy to
learn the songs and lines for the play.
The students are among many to bring the Frozen story to life on the Horsham Town Hall stage, in four shows across August 20 to 22.
The audience will be able to step into a world where magic swirls
through the air, snowflakes sparkle under the stage lights, and the power of love, courage and sisterhood comes alive.
For more information, people can visit horshamtownhall.com.au/ frozen-the-musical.
Nationals twice, and then reunited, in the past year.
“The choice is simple for the Liberal Party: change or die, and I choose change. If we’re united and focused and put the Australian people first, we can confront the challenges of the times, and there are many,” Mr Taylor said.
“All Australians, especially young Australians, did deserve the stability and the opportunity to own a home.
“We’ll re-establish home ownership as the centrepiece of the Australian dream.
“We’ll stand for an immigration policy that puts the interests of Australians first, and puts Australian values at the centre of that policy.”
The new Liberal shadow ministry is yet to be announced.
Kaniva Kindergarten will introduce a Bush Kinder program in 2026 after securing a $6000 State Government grant.
The funding, through the Bush Kinder Grants Program, will support the delivery of bush kinder sessions at the Kaniva Fauna Park during terms two and three, providing four-yearold kindergarten children with regular opportunities to learn in a natural outdoor environment.
The grant will be used to purchase resources to support outdoor learning and nature play experiences.
Council chief executive David Bezuidenhout said the funding would enhance learning experiences.
“Bush kinder provides children with the opportunity to explore, discover and learn outdoors,” he said.
“It supports resilience, confidence and independence while helping children develop important problem-solving and risk assessment skills.”
The frequency of sessions is yet to be confirmed and staff will work with families to determine what best suits children and parents.
BY LAUREN HENRY
Anew pedestrian bridge over Mt William Creek at Dadswells Bridge was craned in on Thursday – two years after it was damaged by fire.
The bridge will provide a safe crossing over the creek, allowing people to avoid walking across the narrow Western Highway bridge, next to cars and trucks.
A former wooden pedestrian bridge was destroyed in the 2024 Dadswells Bridge fire, damaging its walkway and foundation piers.
Horsham Rural City Council secured $305,000 in funding from the state and federal governments to support long-term recovery activities, and used some of that funding to help replace the bridge, originally constructed in 2008.
Construction of the new bridge was delayed from being completed midlast year.
Dadswells Bridge and District Community Group president Ellie McDonald said the community had expected the bridge to be finished by November, but it had been held up by ‘red tape’ and a few extended deadlines.
“They said the pillars had been burnt, so it was beyond repair, so we’ve been waiting for this one for a little bit because it provides that walkway from A to B – from the caravan park and the people wanting to get over to the Giant Koala,” she said.
Ms McDonald said the bridge provided a safe walkway for pedestrians, with some choosing to walk along the Western Highway while the bridge was out of action.
“We’ve seen a few people get tooted by trucks and have trucks stop on the highway because they’re crossing the bridge, so it’s a bit of a necessity –for people from the caravan park and from the koala,” she said.
“You tend to get a lot of people who stop on the highway and go for a bit of a stroll, and walk across, and then there’s people from the caravan park, if they want to go over and go to
the shop or want to go and get some lunch, they could just walk over.
“There’s probably not a massive amount daily, but there’s enough people to warrant it.”
Ms McDonald said first impressions of the bridge indicated it was an improvement on the old bridge.
“It’s going to last the test of time now – the floods in 2011 came up above the old bridge so it needs to be
pretty strong,” she said. Ms McDonald said the group worked on various projects to progress Dadswells Bridge, from lobbying for speed restrictions through the town to buying a generator for the hall.
She said the group focused on Dadswells Bridge, as well as surrounding districts such as Roses Gap and Ledcourt.
A repeat animal cruelty offender has been charged with two counts of breaching a disqualification order and three counts of assaulting an RSPCA Victoria officer.
The Ararat person has been prosecuted by RSPCA Victoria on multiple counts of animal cruelty towards cats and horses over multiple years and is currently banned from owning or being the person in charge of more than five cats and five horses.
RSPCA Victoria inspectors will allege the individual had 53 cats and 10 horses on their property outside Ararat in January and February last year, after attending their property to monitor compliance with a court-issued disqualification order and seized the animals under court-issued order.
RSPCA Victoria inspectorate team leader Shannon Walsh said the alleged assaults of RSPCA inspectors and the breaches of their disqualification orders were disappointing.
“RSPCA Victoria has successfully prosecuted this individual for offences under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 on multiple occasions and removed almost 400 cats and horses from their care over several years,” he said.
“Under the conditions of this person’s court sentence for animal cruelty offences, they were permitted to have no more than five horses and five cats.”
Anyone found guilty of cruelty offences can face fines of up to $101,755 or two years’ imprisonment.
Anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals is urged to make a report to RSPCA Victoria at rspcavic.org/ cruelty-report or by calling 9224 2222.
Who else has been swept up like a blizzard in the excitement of the Winter Olympics?
I had never even heard of MilanoCortina, never ventured onto snow skis in my life, and only watch snow sports about every four years, but it hasn’t taken long to be an arm-chair expert in judging and scoring.
After a session of watching the downhill Alpine skiing, I was rating their runs with the best of them.
But in all seriousness, it’s hard not to watch on with amazement as the athletes not only battle the slippery conditions but fling themselves in the air, flipping their bodies, and then landing with, mostly, perfection.
Just imagining the wear and tear on their knees gives me the aches.
The Australians’ record-breaking success at the Winter Olympics – sitting at five medals, including three gold, as of Monday – has been a
factor in my attention towards the Games.
I have loved researching the back stories of many of the athletes – the first to win gold for Australia was Cooper Woods, and what a revelation he has been.
The story of the young man from Pambula, NSW, saving his friend’s life at a young age and her turning up to celebrate Woods at the Games is one for the ages.
My research into the athletes led to me watching Scotty James: Pipe Dream, a documentary on Netflix.
One of the few Winter Olympic athletes I had heard of, I soon found out there was a lot more to James’ story, and the sport of snowboarding.
It really hit home how much more of a challenge it is for athletes competing in winter sports.
The junior pathways have traditionally not been made available to rising
By Lauren Henry
stars, forcing athletes such as James to move overseas from a young age, just to see if they were good enough to cut it on the world stage.
James obviously has been more than good enough, and through his success in the sport, he is setting up better facilities in Australia to provide improved pathways.
It’s also been heartening to see the reaction of the athlete’s loved ones and the support they are receiving from their home towns.
James’ home of Warrandyte in Melbourne’s east, is today hosting a celebration in his honour at The Grand
Rural City Concert Band for a free community concert at Natimuk next month.
Horsham Rural City Concert Band is leading the organisation of the ‘We are one’ community concert and barbecue at Natimuk, set to take place on Sunday, March 15.
The concert, in the forecourt in front of the NC2 building in Main Street, Natimuk, will feature the Melbourne-based Shrewd Brass Quintet and Horsham Rural City Concert Band, playing a variety of music.
One of the organisers, Mark Radford, said he was hoping the concert, for everyone affected by the Grass Flat fire last month, would bring people together.
Firefighters who fought the fire are also welcome to attend.
“The purpose of this free concert is to allow the bushfire-affected communities of Arapiles, Grass Flat, Natimuk and Quantong to come together, enjoy some live music and share a meal and conversation,” Mr Radford said.
He said another important part of the concert would be a segment presented by clinical psychologist David Younger, who assisted the Dadswells Bridge community with its bushfire recovery processes in 2024.
Shrewd Brass last visited Horsham in 2024 and has delighted audiences across Australia, Singapore, and New Zealand for more than 30 years.
The band is currently enroute to Hong Kong, where it will participate in a series of premier family concerts.
Renowned for its unique ability to engage with audiences and bring a sense of fun to performances, the Shrewd Brass Quintet, together with the Horsham band, will deliver a show not to be missed.
“We performed with the City Brass Band in the Wesley Performing Arts Centre, back in 2010, and have been looking forward to returning to Horsham to perform with the now Horsham Rural City Concert Band,” Quintet band leader Tom Ryan said.
The concert, assisted through a grant from the Over the Farm Gate, is also supported by the National Centre for Farmer Health, Horsham Rural City Council, Rotary Club of Horsham East, and Natimuk Lions Club.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs and arrive from 2.30pm for a 3pm start.
The barbecue will be available from about 4.30pm.
Tickets are free but required – and are available from Monday at Natimuk Post Office and Natimuk Hotel or via www.trybooking.com from March 1.
Morning Melodies will restart at the Ararat RSL function room on Thursday, offering songs from yesteryear.
The free event includes a morning tea at 10am
Hotel, where they will ‘cheers Scotty’ – even renaming the pub ‘The Scotty James Hotel’ for the day.
Many athletes are from smaller communities – just like Ararat’s own Sarah Blizzard.
Blizzard will compete as the pilot in the two-woman bobsleigh team, which is scheduled later this week.
From following Blizzard’s Instagram account, her training – centring on sprints and weights – has no doubt been boosted by her junior athlete days where she won numerous amateur gift races.
But when offered the opportunity to give bobsleighing a shot, she literally jumped at it.
Watching her skills in pushing the bobsleigh and then jumping into it at high speed is something to marvel at.
But like many of the athletes, her sport requires her to live mostly overseas and has its own unique set of
challenges. Not only does Blizzard have to prepare herself as an athlete, but she has to prepare her bobsleigh – which she had to purchase herself for $60,000.
The same bobsleigh she loaned to a Dutch team who were in need of a faster vehicle in the World Cup in December.
Blizzard’s act of sportsmanship – or sportswomanship – enabled the Dutch to qualify for the Olympics, realising the same dream as Blizzard had.
Surely that has to earn some credit with the sporting Gods and help Blizzard achieve Olympic glory?
As we know, sometimes it can come down to luck at the Olympics. Just ask Steven Bradbury.
• Set your alarms for 4am Saturday to cheer on Sarah Blizzard. And which Ararat hotel is going to change its name to the ‘Sarah Blizzard Hotel’ if she wins a medal?
In 2026 there are an estimated 446,500 Australians living with dementia, a figure projected to more than double to over one-million people by 2065.
In Victoria, there are an estimated 113,900 people living with dementia in 2026 and without a significant intervention, this is expected to increase to an estimated 216,400 by 2054.
That’s why Dementia Australia is calling for further investment from the Federal Government in implementing the National Dementia Action Plan, a 10-year government framework aiming to improve the lives of people living with dementia and their carers.
Dementia Australia is here 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. If you or someone you know have a diagnosis of dementia, or mild cognitive impairment, or you’re concerned about changes to your cognition or that of a loved one, contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 or visit dementia.org.au.
Professor Tanya Buchanan Chief executive, Dementia Australia
Choosing aged care is emotionally challenging. The complexity of the process can be overwhelming. Dean Winfield and Richard Goudie, qualified Age Care Advisors, help you determine the costs applicable to your chosen facility, Centrelink impact, family home options, and cash flow strategies to meet living needs. Personal circumstances shape fees and strategies, emphasizing the need for specific advice before deciding.
The Willaura Market is a charity event run by the Willaura Health Care Auxiliary, with funds raised going towards improving the lives of residents and patients at Willaura Health Care, East Grampians Health Service.
This boutique country market offers goods from local and regional artisans, gourmet food, music and children’s entertainment. The market is set in Willaura, surrounded by fertile farmland, which lies 34 kilometres south of Ararat on the south-eastern edge of the Grampians in Victoria’s Western District.
LAUNCH: Rowena Murray, founder and president of Ararat Women’s Shed, is excited to create a space for women to meet while teaching and learning practical skills, including a chainsaw certification.
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
Women from the Ararat region will soon have a space to connect and learn practical skills in a friendly environment with the launch of the Ararat Women’s Shed.
The women’s shed is based on the successful model of men’s sheds established across Australia, including in Ararat, Stawell, Horsham, Pomonal and Rupanyup.
The group plans to offer a space for women to meet while teaching and learning practical skills including woodworking, sewing and printmaking.
Ararat Women’s Shed president and founder Rowena Murray said the interest in the concept from local women had been ‘incredible’, leading her to launch the group sooner than planned.
“It has been brilliant. I wasn’t going to launch until March this year, but there has been so much interest that it’s taken off without me a little bit,” she said.
“It’s time to switch the lights on, so to speak, so I’m deep in conversation with a couple of different venues in town – one in particular that I’m really excited about.
“There’s been donations of tools being offered, which is fantastic.
“The Women’s Shed Association, which is a national organisation that is quite closely tied in with the men’s one, has been immensely supportive … and we’re really good friends with our fellow men’s sheds as well as the Ballarat Women’s Shed, so we’ve got a lot of support in the broader sheds community as well.”
Ms Murray said women would be able to gain certifications through shed-related programs.
“I’ve got a quote from a fantastic outfit called Treetec who do chainsaw certifications, and they’re willing to come out to Ararat and bring training that’s only available in Melbourne out to
western Victoria for people who want to get this certification,” she said.
“I’ve done this course myself and it was brilliant. It’s maintenance and safety, as well as some really good chainsaw techniques, so you’re getting the job done and you’re getting it done right.
“If you’re an apprentice and you want to have it count towards your apprenticeship, it’s a ticket.”
Ms Murray said she had a ‘shopping list’ of items she hoped to procure for the shed.
“I sew, but I don’t have an industrial machine, or a semi-industrial machine, or a large-format quilting machine. I would really love to get my hands on some of those so that people can come in and finish off their quilts instead of posting them off to people who have got these machines to finish,” she said.
Above all, Ms Murray said the shed would have a focus on communal fun.
“The first thing that we want to do is have regular get-togethers,” she said.
“I’ve currently got a survey out in the community, and the feedback starting to come in is that there’s a lot of interest in things like classes and skill-shares and learning a whole lot of cool things.
“People are interested in getting together to just commune … as well as doing woodworking classes and other things.”
Ms Murray said people interested in joining Ararat Women’s Shed could visit website ararat womensshed.org and sign up to the group’s enewsletter, or search for Ararat Women’s Shed on social media sites Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.
“We’ll be opening up memberships hopefully before the end of this month, and the chainsaw class expressions of interest opened on Friday,” she said.
“We are looking for sponsors, so if there are any corporate sponsors, feel free to reach out.”
The search is on for Victoria’s next generation of rangers, with outdoor enthusiasts encouraged to apply for one of 15 new roles across northwest Victoria.
Parks Victoria is recruiting motivated, handson people for 62 positions across Victoria to strengthen its frontline and keep parks accessible, safe and thriving.
Rangers tackle a diverse range of jobs, from community engagement and controlling weeds to keeping tracks, toilets and barbecues in great shape.
They help visitors of all ages and abilities enjoy more than four-million hectares of public lands and waters, while safeguarding native landscapes, plants and animals.
Successful recruits will gain experience in everything from bushfire preparedness to cultural heritage protection.
Applications for roles across regional Victoria are now open until March 8.
For details on becoming a ranger, people can visit www.parks.vic.gov.au/get-into-nature/ careers.
BY LAUREN HENRY
Former Horsham man Dale Baker has released two new books, which he wrote and illustrated.
The books, titled Calm Your Farm and I Love to Draw, are now ready to land on Wimmera bookshelves, and entertain children across the region.
Baker is an accomplished picture book author, illustrator, artist and teacher based on the Surf Coast after growing up in Horsham.
His other titles include Arty Farty Marty, The Paint Smashin’ Kraken, Flip, How to Be Clever Forever, and Dream a Dream.
After the launch of both books in January, Baker was also guest speaker at the Dymocks First Tuesday Book Club in Melbourne earlier this month.
Baker said each book was ‘a joy to bring to life in its own way’.
Calm Your Farm is a lively, chaotic, heart-warming story about farm animals who get a little too excited and how they find their calm again.
“It’s full of humour, colour, and playful mayhem, with some gentle messages about self-regulation woven through the fun,” Baker said.
Baker said he wanted to use humour to explore simple ideas about selfregulation.
“Encouraging good sleep, healthy eating, connection with friends, and calming strategies all felt like important messages to weave through the fun,” he said.
“Kids understand big emotions and big energy, which makes Calm Your Farm instantly relatable. And finding calm is something everyone can connect with.”
Baker said he was ‘genuinely thrilled’ with how Calm Your Farm turned out, with the cover and illustrations capturing exactly the bright, playful chaos he had imagined.
He said creating the artwork for Calm Your Farm was definitely a highlight.
While the text for Calm Your Farm came together in a few days, the illustrations took about five to six months.
“Big expressions, bright colours, and lots of movement. The characters were so much fun to draw,” he said.
“Calm Your Farm was inspired by watching students return to school after the summer holidays.
“Some overtired, some overly energetic, and all adjusting to routine again. A few of the animals may or may not be inspired by real students … but I’ll never say who.”
Baker said I Love to Draw celebrated creativity and the amazing places a pencil and imagination could take people.
“As a design teacher, I see how drawing builds confidence and opens doors to all kinds of possibilities,” he said.
“I wanted kids to understand that nearly everything in the world begins
as a sketch, inventions, buildings, the chair you are sitting on and clothes you are wearing, it goes on and on.”
Baker said his favourite part of creating I Love to Draw was the upsidedown drawings that transformed when the book was flipped.
“Kids are going to love that moment of surprise. I’m also proud of the fun drawing activities that help kids create their own characters,” he said.
Years of teaching art and design and a lifelong love of drawing led Baker to create the drawing book – an idea that simmered for years until everything clicked into place.
“I’ve been a drawer since I was a kid, and this book is my way of encouraging children to discover that same joy and confidence,” he said.
“I’ve seen how drawing boosts con-
fidence, helps kids solve problems, and opens creative thinking.
“I wanted a book that captured that sense of possibility.”
Baker said the process for illustrating both books started with loose hand-drawn sketches to explore energy, personality and layout.
“Once the roughs felt right, I moved into Procreate to refine and colour everything,” he said.
“That blend of spontaneous sketching and polished digital illustration gave each book its own lively, expressive feel.”
The books, published by Little Big Sky, are available to borrow from Horsham Library or people can purchase them from online book stores.
People can also follow Baker on his Instagram account @DaleBakerArt.
Piling works on a new Buangor BenNevis Road bridge near Warrak are complete, with Ararat Rural City Council workers now constructing abutments.
The council said the project was on track for completion by March 13, with upcoming works to include construction of bridge crossheads and pedestals before the installation of a new precast concrete, double-span bridge deck.
The new $1.3-million bridge is designed for a minimum 100-year life for major structural elements, improved flood immunity and safety barriers that meet current standards.
The new structure will comply with SM1600 load ratings, ensuring it could safely accommodate heavy vehicles and farm machinery that relied on Buangor Ben-Nevis Road as a key connection between Buangor, Bayindeen, Warrak and Mount Cole Creek.
Horsham Church of Christ is hosting an event to mark World Day of Prayer 2026.
With a focus on Nigeria, the service will be at 2pm on Friday, March 6, at Horsham Church of Christ in River Road.
An afternoon tea will follow the service, and attendees are invited to bring a plate of food to share.
For more information, people can visit horsham.org.au/events or call 5382 3877.
Horsham Neighbourhood House will host an event as part of Neurodiversity Celebration Week.
A morning tea featuring board games will be from 10am to noon on March 20.
There will also be an opportunity to meet Horsham police’s disability liaison officers at the free event.
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breath tests have been a focus over summer.
It was great to have the Victoria Police bus come to Horsham to assist – anything that helps target impaired drivers is really positive for the community.
We tested more than 1900 people, which is a sensational result.
Of that, there were 12 impaired drivers and police detected 127 offences in total – obviously that is not ideal. We don’t want any impaired drivers on our roads.
Road trauma affects every Victorian, so whatever we can do to target that is worthwhile.
We want to send a message that we
don’t want any impaired drivers on our roads, and we want drivers on our roads to go out and be able to use the roads safely.
So anyone who’s not doing that is someone that we’re going to target and there’s no apologies from us for that.
Unfortunately there have been a few incidents of thefts of property in our region lately.
People are seeing things and sometimes they’re going to take the opportunity to take them, which is unfortunate, but we do have those kind of people in our communities.
BIDDING ON A NEW FUTURE: Natimuk Agricultural Society’s monster auction raised $10,250 for the 10-user group Natimuk Showgrounds masterplan. Organiser and agricultural society secretary Judith Bysouth said Elder’s generously donated their $2750 commission back to the community. “About 100 cups of coffee were also sold for donations to the Natimuk Lions fire appeal, and the king-sized sausage rolls were fiercely sought after. All round, it was just really great,” she said. Auctioneer Matt Taylor, centre, keeps the ball rolling.
Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
Victoria Police is always looking for people to join us.
By Caroline Johnson, Acting Superintendent
So, everyone needs to be proactive about protecting their property.
This means don’t do things like leave valuables in the sight of others; make sure to lock doors if it’s in the car; and certainly don’t leave keys in the car.
Be proactive and just think that little step further about how to protect your own property.
Retention in the country can be really difficult, so the process has changed in recent years to allow people to come back home quickly after they graduate, which is fantastic because we want police officers to know their community.
It’s a hard job, but it’s the most rewarding job.
It gives you a really good appreciation for life’s challenges and people. I love it and I would encourage anyone to take the leap.
While it’s challenging, it’s the most
rewarding job, and I wouldn’t change a thing – I’ve loved my career and I’ve been lucky, especially to come here to Horsham.
To work in this community has been sensational, so I would absolutely advocate for anyone to look into it more online and do a few inquiries of their own – it’s a great leap to take and you won’t regret it.
And the opportunities in Victoria Police are absolutely endless – there’s a place for everyone in Victoria Police, and I wholeheartedly believe that.
• Editor’s note: The Weekly Advertiser will publish a regular police column to help inform the public of crime and public safety issues.
Valued Wimmera Waterways is the theme of an exhibition featuring poems, drawings, messages and photos collated by students from 10 schools.
More than 130 students contributed to the installation, now displayed in Horsham’s Firebrace Street.
Wimmera Catchment Education and River Detectives co-ordinator Jeanie Clark, who facilitated the project, said the Wimmera’s young people shared messages and images about the waterways they cared about.
“We hope people will take a look at
our gallery of some wonderful water places identified by students of 10 schools across the Wimmera,” she said.
“They were done for the 2025 Catchment Education and River Detectives program of the Wimmera Catchment Management Authority.”
Ms Clark said the sites included: a farm dam at Kiata; Bellfied, Charlegrark, Fyans, Pink and Ratzcastle lakes; Stawell’s Federation Park stream; Natimuk, and Halls Gap’s Stony Creek; the Wimmera River at Horsham, Dimboola, and Jeparit; and
Yarriambiack Creek at Warracknabeal’s Rainbow Road weir; and Beehive and Silverband waterfalls.
“Our thanks go to the 136 students and 10 teachers involved in this project from Goroke P-12, Dimboola, Halls Gap, Jeparit, Natimuk and Stawell primary schools, Warracknabeal Special Development School, and Wimmera Lutheran College –Dimboola and Nhill campuses, and to Earles for their support in hosting it,” she said.
Northern Grampians Shire residents can have their say about council’s plans to manage waste and recycling services across the municipality until 2030, following a service review in October last year. Council has released its updated Waste Management Strategy 2020-2030 for public comment The strategy has been revised following the conclusion of last year’s Waste and Recycling Service Review, which included opportunities for community input The update details several changes, including how council plans to introduce new recycling services in a practical, affordable way For more information, including a copy of the updated strategy and how to provide feedback by March 1, scan the QR code above
Community Care reminder: Our Community Care Service Review survey closes on Tuesday, February 24 Council will host drop-in sessions about the review at St Arnaud Library on Tuesday, February 24 and Stawell Library on Friday, February 27, between 10am and 4 30pm If you have any questions about the review please drop in and see us Bookings are not required
Language celebration: Join us at Stawell Library from 1 30pm to 4pm on Saturday, February 21 to celebrate International Mother Language Day! The free community event focuses on how every language brings its own unique history, identity and knowledge to our shire. For more information, scan the QR code above
Four of Northern Grampians Shire Council’s community funding streams are now accepting applications from eligible residents, event organisers and groups: Tourism Events Grant, closes March 9; Community Grant, closes March 31; Arts and Culture Grant, closes March 31; and Creative Education Fund, closes March 31 For more information about each grant program, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, please scan the QR code above.
Survey phone calls: Each year, council participates in the Victorian Community Satisfaction Survey, which aims to measure our performance against indicators within the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework (LGPRF) and to benchmark us against councils across the state Representatives of TKW Research will be cont acting residents across our shire between February 2 and April 3, to collect feedback for the 2026 survey If you receive a call from someone advising of the survey, we encourage you to participate, however it is completely voluntary
Pool update: St Arnaud Swimming Pool will close from February 28 to facilitate the upcoming refurbishment project. The pool was originally due to close this weekend. Unfortunately, the three-metre diving board will no longer be refurbished as the pool does not meet the diving safety guidelines set by Life Saving Victoria The one-metre board will be refurbished as planned
Next council meeting: Tuesday, March 3, in the Perry Room, St Arnaud Town Hall, St Arnaud, at 12 30pm The meeting is open to the public and will be livestreamed via our YouTube channel. The agenda will be available on our website.
Hindmarsh Shire Council will introduce a food organics and garden organics, FOGO, kerbside collection service by next year as part of a statewide bid to reduce landfill waste.
Councillors received a report at this month’s meeting outlining the FOGO collection service, which will be mandatory for councils across Victoria to adopt by July 1 next year under the Circular Economy (Waste Reduction and Recycling) Act 2021.
The council undertook a public consultation about the introduction of FOGO bins via a survey on its Have Your Say Hindmarsh website between November 19 and December 17 last year.
The survey provided respondents with four collection frequency options for FOGO and general waste bins, asking them to choose their preferred option.
The council received 145 survey responses, with 9.7 per cent preferring weekly FOGO and fortnightly general-waste collection; 57.9 per cent preferring fortnightly FOGO and weekly general-waste collection; 14.5 per cent preferring fortnightly collection for both; and 17.9 per cent preferring weekly collection for both.
Deputy Mayor Rosie Barker said analysis of the community feedback indicated a clear preference for fortnightly FOGO and weekly generalwaste collection, with that option receiving the highest level of support across all townships and demographic groups, particularly from families with young children and households concerned
about odour, hygiene and waste volumes during warmer months.
The council unanimously passed a motion supporting the community’s preference and approving fortnightly FOGO and weekly general-waste collection commencing at or before July 1 next year.
“Community feedback played a vital role in guiding council’s decision,” Cr Barker said.
“We heard clearly from residents that supporting more sustainable waste management is a priority.
“We also listened closely to the concerns conveyed by young families, particularly regarding the importance of maintaining weekly waste collection.
“This input has directly shaped the direction we are taking with the FOGO introduction to our towns. I want to thank everyone who took the time to share their views – your voice genuinely makes a difference.”
Cr Barker said Hindmarsh Shire Council would work with neighbouring councils to establish a local processing facility for FOGO waste, with the council to purchase new green-lidded bins as part of the service.
The current collection frequency of recyclable, yellow lid, and glass, purple lid, bins will remain the same.
For more information about the council’s bin system, people can contact infrastructure services director Ram Upadhyaya on 03 5391 4444 or rupadhyaya@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.
HELPING HANDS: Katie and Kristal from Ararat Rural City Council customer service team are ready to help people register their pets.
Ararat Rural City Council officials have called for pet owners to observe their responsibilities, with almost all dogs collected by council rangers last year not registered and about half not microchipped.
The council is urging residents to ensure their pets are registered locally and microchipped with a national database, ensuring contact details are up-to-date with both.
Council chief executive Tim Harrison said annual dog and cat registration notices would hit residents’ mailboxes at the end of February and were due for payment by April 10.
“When pets aren’t registered or microchipped, returning them home takes far longer and places a significant strain on our community safety team,” he said.
“Our rangers do a huge amount of work behind the scenes to reunite animals with their owners.
“That time could be better spent on broader
Lot 2 / 1878 Northern Grampians Road, Laharum
Southern Wimmera Cropping/ Grazing - 101.2 ha/ 250.07 acres. Excellent fencing with good access with road frontages on 3 sides. Outstanding Mountain views, 2 catchment dams & GWM Pipeline water.
PRICED @ $7000 per acre – $1,750,490
Mark Clyne M 0417 568 200
Elliots Lane, Clear Lake
127.6ha / 315.3 acres – Cropping/Grazing
Currently divided in to two paddocks. Watered by 4 dams, access to the GWM pipeline water supply. Great opportunity to secure an affordable block in a reliable higher Southern Wimmera rainfall zone.
PRICED @ $3850 per acre
Mark Clyne M 0417 568 200
1189 Brimpaen-Laharum Road, Brimpaen
952.05ha / 2352.56 acres
Southern Wimmera Cropping/Grazing – Great opp. to secure reliable farming land all in one location in 6 titles. Well-drained with brown loam soil types & a good clover history. Exc. water assets & fencing, good 3BR home, 3-stand shearing shed, sheep yards. 40kms south of Horsham with Grampians views.
PRICED @ $4,250 per acre – $9,998,380
Mark Clyne M 0417 568 200
community safety priorities.” Dr Harrison said the reminder applied equally to cats, including those kept indoors.
He said the council continued to collect cats that are unidentifiable, and that time involved in returning them to their owners could be avoided with basic compliance.
If a resident finds a wandering or lost animal, they can contact the council’s 24-hour community safety team on 5355 0200.
Calls are redirected after hours so a ranger can attend.
“Council does not euthanise animals,” Dr Harrison said.
“If an animal is not collected within eight days, it is made available for adoption locally or through one of council’s trusted adoption partners.
“Registering and microchipping pets is simple, legal and helps get them home faster”.
419 ha / 1035 acres (Approx.)
To be offered in 3 Parcels
FOR SALE: By Expressions of Interest
Closing Thursday, March 19, 2026
For more information call Mark
Finding the Balance’ will be the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day event in Horsham on March 10.
The Horsham Town Hall event will celebrate women from across the Wimmera, acknowledging current challenges, honouring care for self and others, and reminding all that together, women are stronger.
A light lunch will be provided, as well as tours of Horsham Art Gallery for those interested.
The theme of ‘Finding the balance, embrace, acknowledge, care, and empower’ recognises that many women in the region are balancing external demands, while quietly carrying a significant internal load.
The event aims to bring the community together to recognise those shared
challenges and create space to move forward together.
Organising committee member Katja Fiedler said this year’s event would be different from past events where there were guest speakers on a panel.
“This year we decided to do things quite differently with a much more interactive and facilitated one-hour long event,” she said.
Ellen Jackson, from Potential Psychology, will facilitate the session, inviting attendees to slow down and reflect on the mental load they may be holding through relatable experiences.
“She’s incredibly skilled in facilitating larger groups around community issues, community activation, community empowerment, with a psychological expertise and background,”
Ms Fiedler said.
“We’re bringing women and gender
diverse people across the Wimmera together to recognise the mental load that we are all carrying with everything that’s happening in the region – whether it’s around natural disasters, fires, or drought, but also there is quite complex context around what’s happening with mining and renewables.
“We’re acknowledging the external load, but also the mental internal load that so many women are carrying and trying to balance.
“We’re coming together to acknowledge that, and to find ways to share how we are looking after ourselves but what might also be hindering us in looking after ourselves, and what is within our control and what’s outside of our control.
“And then really looking at how do we support each other? How can we empower each other? How can we be
there for each other as a community moving forward?”
Ms Fiedler said the event theme of ‘finding the balance’ tied in with a wider International Women’s Day theme of ‘balancing the scales’.
The organising committee acknowledges that a woman is anyone who identifies as a woman and welcomes people of all genders to this event.
“It’s not only for women because we acknowledge everyone is having their challenges and will all have a load they all carry, so we are targeting women because it is International Women’s Day and we really want to acknowledge the experiences of women and gender-diverse people, but we’re also absolutely encouraging and welcome allies to come along and be part of the conversation,” Ms Fiedler said.
International Women’s Day, on March 8 each year, is a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.
The day also marks a call to action for advancing gender equality.
In 2026, International Women’s Day, IWD, marks the milestone of 115 years of collective action, advocacy, and progress toward gender equality.
For more than a century, IWD has helped drive transformative change – each generation has built on the courage of those before it, pushing boundaries and redefining what is possible.
This year’s theme is ‘Give To Gain’ centring on the notion that ‘when we give, we gain’.
The IWD 2026 Give To Gain campaign encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration.
Give To Gain emphasises the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organisations and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase.
As individuals, giving support means calling out stereotypes, challenging discrimination, questioning bias, celebrating women’s success, and more.
Sharing knowledge and encourage-
ment with others is also key. Whether through donations, knowledge, resources, infrastructure, visibility, advocacy, education, training, mentoring, or time, contributing to women’s advancement helps create a more supportive and interconnected world.
Individuals, organisations and community groups can support the IWD 2026 Give To Gain campaign all year long.
At work, at home, and in the community, there are many ways to advance women through giving: respect;
GIVE TO GAIN:
The International Women’s Day Give To Gain campaign can be displayed through a pose to show solidarity.
The poses of either having one hand on your heart and the other hand stretched out in the giving gesture; or having cupped hands out front, signifies the act of giving and receiving. Throughout history, the open palm has been associated with truth, honesty, and openness. People can encourage others to support the campaign by sharing an image and statement through social media using the #GiveToGain hashtag.
donations; visibility; knowledge; funding; justice; resources; a voice; protection; truth; equal pay; celebration; sponsorship; mentoring; credit; budget; introductions; workshops; opportunities; safety; training; role models; and time.
“We just want everyone to really come as they are, come with an openmind, come with an open heart, and be part of a really important conversation for this community to feel together, to feel acknowledged, but also to feel empowered.
“Because we know when women are cared for, communities are stronger.” The organising committee includes representatives from Women’s Health Grampians; Rotary Club of Horsham East; Federation University Horsham campus; Horsham Rural City Council; Wimmera Women Connect; Barengi Gadjin Land Council; and Horsham Regional Art Gallery.
People can purchase a ticket, costing $15 for adults and $12 for concession, or find more information via horsham townhall.com.au/iwd.
Horsham
Horsham Neighbourhood House morning tea: Tuesday, March 10, 10am.
Jeparit
Jeparit Riverbank Fiesta for International Women’s Day: Saturday, March 7, 5pm to 10.30pm.
Celebrate International Women’s Day at the Jeparit Riverbank Precinct, with a twilight market, guest speakers and then live music from Shannon Tatt and The Flipside to close out the evening.
A free morning tea at Ararat RSL function room: Wednesday, March 11, 10.30am to noon.
Three remarkable local women – to be confirmed in coming weeks – from diverse industries, each a master of her own destiny and driven by a clear vision for success, will be guest speakers at the morning tea. By investing in themselves and backing their ambitions, they are not only achieving personal success but actively accelerating progress within their chosen fields.
The event will celebrate their leadership, resilience, and the example they set for others and welcome them to share insights into what International Women’s Day means to them.
Warracknabeal Town Hall will play host to a special morning of entertainment on Thursday next week, with internationally renowned musician Connie Kis Andersen joining Anthony Tenace on stage.
The pair will perform a selection of country and rock-n-roll classics, along with some original material.
Ms Andersen, who last month won Best Independent Australian Country Album at the 2026 Indie Country Music Awards Australia during the Tamworth Country Music Festival for her most recent album Reflections, said she was excited to return to the Wimmera after previously playing in Horsham.
“I am very grateful to be able to get up there and perform,” she said.
“Over the years and I’ve been very fortunate to make some good music mates – I call them music mates, not fans, because I feel like they’re there as my friends to enjoy the show.”
Ms Andersen said a career in the music industry had been a remote prospect for much of her life, but was a dream she had always harboured.
“I was from a migrant family, which is why I’ve got Kis in my name – it’s a Danish derivative of the name Kirsten,” she said.
“Being from a migrant family, you weren’t encouraged to pursue your passion as a career. By all means, my mum and dad provided me with opportunities that they didn’t have, but they never expected me to take music up as a business.
“I had a haircut and a real job for the first part of my life – I was a teacher of children with disabilities in various areas. I taught braille and worked with blind kids for eight years and worked with children with cerebral palsy and autism.”
But Ms Andersen said a passion for performance was always ‘simmering underneath’ after a brush with Australian country music royalty at a young age.
“My first gig of renown was as a kid in the country with Slim Dusty,” she said.
“We lived in Bourke in New
South Wales and when his troupe would come through town he would always involve the local talents, which included little kids.
“We were the opening act, and I can remember him coming to town and I did my little medley of Red River Valley, She’ll Be Coming ‘Round the Mountain and all those sorts of songs.”
Ms Andersen said she played in pub bands and used music as part of her teaching, but never considered a professional career in the music industry until Celine Dion showed interest in recording a song she had written.
“I was writing songs to hopefully pitch them to other artists, but I somehow fell into this business because of the invitation to record,” she said.
“Once I had started, you have to work twice as hard as a mature-aged woman in this business, so I did.
“Over the years I’ve won quite a few awards, including at Tamworth as well as in Western Australia and Tasmania.”
“As a songwriter, by singing someone else’s hits you get a really great sense of what is a good song. So I started singing lots of classic hits and covers, which I love,” she said.
“That’s what’s going to happen at Warracknabeal. We’re spending the morning with Anthony Tenace, and we’re going to be doing some classic country and rock-n-roll songs, and maybe a smattering of songs people know of mine if they ask.
“I love playing in those sorts of venues where you interact with the audience.
“You basically have a really good morning of friendship, fun and engagement with the songs they know.”
The show on Thursday, February 26 will be at Warracknabeal Town Hall from 10am to noon, with doors opening at 9am.
Tickets are available for purchase at Feet First Footwear, Warracknabeal, or online at www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1456614. People can email ammusic productions@gmail.com for more information.
While boasting a catalogue of seven albums, Ms Andersen said she enjoyed playing country music classics just as much as her own material for audiences.
Preliminary works have begun on a new dog park at Ararat’s Centenary Park, with an area pegged out in preparation for perimeter fencing to be installed in coming months.
The new dog park, being built by Ararat Rural City Council, will provide a dedicated, secure outdoor space where dogs can safely exercise and socialise with other dogs.
Once completed, the park will include secure fencing, two separate spaces – one for small dogs and one for large dogs – with play equipment, as well as shaded areas and waste-disposal stations.
Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the project would offer benefits for the community beyond having a safe place for dogs to exercise off lead.
“Dog parks are the ultimate social hub,” he said.
“By having a proper set-up for both dogs and their owners, there’s a good chance we can boost social connection for residents, which we know can make our community healthier.
“The new facility will also be a massive bonus for travellers who want to stop and give their dog a good run to break up their trip.”
The project is supported by $100,000 through the State Government’s New and Upgraded Dog Parks Program that aims to improve Victoria’s network of open spaces by investing in green areas that encourage people to enjoy the outdoors with their dogs. Updates on the project are available
at engage.ararat.vic.gov.au.
Picture: Jake Nowakowski
LAUNCH: Grampians Health chief executive Dale Fraser, Good Friday Appeal chair Penny Fowler, Matilda Nelles, Tallulah Nelles-Cribbes, Anthony Cribbes, Health Minister MaryAnne Thomas, Good Friday Appeal executive director Rebecca Cowan, Royal Children’s Hospital chief executive Dr Peter Steer and Member for Wendouree Juliana Marie Addison at the Good Friday Appeal launch at Ballarat Hospital.
Grampians
Health is set to be one of the major beneficiaries as the Good Friday Appeal and The Royal Children’s Hospital distribute $3-million in funding to more than 30 regional health services.
The Good Friday Appeal will mark its 95th year in 2026, nearing a century of helping sick children and their families in regional Victoria to access care closer to home through the donations of people from across the state.
Appeal organisers said this year’s investment would support projects such as upgrading lifesaving equipment, offering additional training and providing scholarships for healthcare professionals.
Grampians Health chief executive Dale Fraser said the Good Friday Appeal money would go towards improving accommodation for patients’ families and upgrading training and medical equipment in paediatrics.
“This 2026 grant will provide unparalleled support in providing specialist paediatric care to the communities of western Victoria,” he said.
“It will allow us to continue to provide paediatric skills uplift training and to consolidate the often-underserved allied health services with enhanced equipment, training and assessment tools for the Grampians region.
“This grant will help us keep families together when they need each other the most. Support from the Good Friday Appeal will help us realise a patient family accommodation facility for regional and rural families.”
Other organisations from the region set to receive funding through the appeal distribution include East Grampians Health Service,
East Wimmera Health Service, Rural Northwest Health and West Wimmera Health Service.
With the latest round of funding, the Good Friday Appeal has distributed more than $8.5-million in regional Victoria in the past three years.
State Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the appeal made a difference across Victoria by helping more children access the care they needed.
“No matter where you live, everyone deserves access to the very best care,” she said.
Good Friday Appeal chair Penny Fowler said regional funding provided an opportunity to keep children closer to home.
“This funding supports the hospital’s mission to extend its reach across the state and helps regional children and their families receive worldclass care close to where they live, reducing an enormous stress for so many,” she said.
“The Good Friday Appeal has had an unwavering commitment to supporting our state’s most vulnerable – sick children and their families –for the past 95 years and this new funding is a smart and efficient means to enhance regional capacity.”
Good Friday Appeal executive director Rebecca Cowan said the funding underscored the appeal’s commitment to regional areas.
“Regional Victoria is the backbone of the Good Friday Appeal. For decades, regional communities have rallied around the local CFA as they rattle tins, or supported the fundraising efforts of local Lions, Rotary and Kiwanis Clubs, schools, businesses, and local families to raise funds for sick kids, who now may be able to receive the care they need closer to home,” she said.
Wimmera Mallee Environmental and Agricultural Protection Association will host its first meeting of 2026, featuring guest speaker Andrew Phelan, on Monday.
WMEAP seeks to bring information about renewable energy and associated issues to the community.
Mr Phelan was one of four graduates chosen nationally by the then Australia China Council, for its China Skills Traineeship under DFAT in 1992.
He has worked in China including Hong Kong, the United Kingdom and Australia in consumer goods, and over the past 20 years in the med-tech and healthcare sector including 15 years based in Singapore covering the Asia Pacific.
Mr Phelan interned with BHP in Beijing in 1990 and Fosters Brewing’s Shanghai Joint Venture in 1992 and has also worked for Pacific Dunlop-Pacific Brands Food Group’s China Ice Cream Joint Venture, giving him first-hand insights into the commercial environment for Australian and foreign firms at a relatively early phase in China’s opening and reform period of development.
In his med-tech career, he worked for both
GE Healthcare and Gore Medical both of which successfully prosecuted PRC nationals for intellectual property theft.
In his time with the Swedish firm Mölnlycke Healthcare in surgery and infection control, he worked with hospital infection control and World Health Organisation staff, giving him a unique insight into the origins of the COVID pandemic and China’s management of the crisis.
Mr Phelan is a semi-regular commentator on Sky News Australia and has also appeared on 60 Minutes Australia, ‘If You’re Listening’ on the ABC, and other media in the UK, the USA, Canada and Asia.
Recognising a greater awareness and engagement on the ‘China Challenge’, Mr Phelan has also begun public speaking including conferences and civic organisations such as the RSL, Melbourne Rugby Club, and Australian Association of Independent Financial Advisors.
He also gave a deposition at the Foreign Interference and Transnational Repression Roundtable at Parliament House, Canberra in 2025.
The association extends a welcome to all to attend the meeting at Warracknabeal Community Centre, at 7pm.
WE’RE WELCOMING NEW FAMILIES TO THE PIMPINIO FNC JUNIOR COMMUNITY FOR THE UPCOMING 2026 SEASON
WE ARE CURRENTLY SEEKING A U SKI CK , U 8, U11 & U 14 FOO TB AL LERS TO JOIN OUR CLUB!
AT PIMPINIO, JUNIOR FOOTY IS BUILT ON FAMILY, RESPECT AND LOYALTY, WITH A FOCUS ON FUN, CONFIDENCE, TEAMWORK AND INCLUSION.
WHETHER YOUR CHILD IS NEW TO THE GAME OR RETURNING, THEY’LL BE SUPPORTED AND ENCOURAGED FROM DAY ONE.
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A GENUINE COMMUNITY CLUB THAT VALUES ITS PEOPLE, WE’D LOVE TO HAVE YOU ON BOARD.
TRAINING AT PIMPINIO SPORTING COMPLEX TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS FROM 5.30PM
Hindmarsh
Shire Council adopted its 2024-25 annual report earlier this month after changes required by the Victorian Auditor General’s Office were completed.
The report was first presented to the council in October last year, but the Victorian Auditor General’s Office, VAGO, identified amendments needed in the report’s financial and performance statement.
Deputy Mayor Rosie Barker encouraged residents to read the report, which she said provided a snapshot of the council’s activities during the 2024-25 financial year.
Cr Barker said the report was broken down into four sections: a report of operations, reviewing council and community achievements; a performance report, detailing how the council has set about achieving the goals of its overarching council plan; a governance report, presenting corporate governance and statutory information; and a financial report, presenting audited performance and financial statements detailing the council’s financial performance.
Cr Barker said key achievements from 2024-25 included: improvements in community satisfaction across the areas of community consultation, advocacy, making community decisions, customer service and overall performance and direc-
tion; the completion of 713 customer action requests, including work tickets relating to roads, footpaths, drains and other infrastructure; 7754 physical items borrowed from Hindmarsh Shire Libraries; 11,668 attendees at Hindmarsh outdoor pools; completion and near completion of community infrastructure projects such as Davis Park, the Rainbow Silo development project, Rainbow Rises Events Centre, and Nhill and Dimboola kindergartens on school sites; and increases in visitation to Dimboola, Jeparit and Rainbow holiday parks.
“The past year has demonstrated resilience, innovation and community spirit,” she said.
“While bushfires and operational changes presented some unexpected challenges, they also brought out the best in us.
“Together we have not only overcome but we’ve set the stage for even greater accomplishments in the future.
“Thank you to everyone – community members, volunteers, frontline responders, council staff and councillors – for the hard work, adaptability, and commitment.”
People can view the 2024-25 annual report online at www. hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/annualreports. People with questions regarding the annual report can email info@hindmarsh.vic.gov. au or call 5391 4444.
A new in-person psycho-oncology service for Wimmera Cancer Centre patients has been in strong demand since its introduction last year.
Clinical psychologist Sue Titcumb has made visits to Horsham since Grampians Health’s psychology department started the service for Wimmera cancer patients.
Grampians Health director of psychology Sarah McKinnon said bringing an in-person psycho-oncology service to Wimmera Cancer Centre had been a years-long process.
“We received a small amount of funding to provide services to Horsham and surrounds in 2020, however the pandemic unfortunately impacted the ability to travel for in-person services,” she said.
“We have been providing a telehealth-based service but this is not always suitable for all people, so we are thrilled to have been able to commence the in-person services in 2025.”
Ms Titcumb supports Wimmera patients with cancer-specific psychological support, and said the focus of her work was people whose reaction to a cancer diagnosis was outside the normal range.
“I’m here to support these patients directly in relation to their cancer concerns and any overlap with their mental health and wellbeing,” she said.
“The purpose is to help those who are really struggling with that overlap of physical health and mental health and how we can help them adjust to the impact of cancer in their life.
“Also if they are experiencing difficulties due to their cancer treatment, like side effects, or if their cancer is impacting on their relationships at home.
“I’m dealing with more specific mental-health concerns like depression, anxiety, panic disorders and sleep difficulties.”
Ms Titcumb said while the volume of sessions she could provide was limited, she tried not to put a specific number on how many sessions a client could attend.
“Everyone is an individual and they might have different needs, but it’s not something where they would get 12 months of therapy,” she said.
“Often people need two to three sessions with me then they might go on their way.
“Other times, a patient’s cancer diagnosis might mean that there are newer hurdles to overcome and they might need a few more sessions.”
Ms Titcumb said rates of mentalhealth difficulty were higher for cancer patients than the general population.
“The majority of people, once they have time to process what is happen-
“The purpose is to help those who are really struggling with that overlap of physical health and mental health and how we can help them adjust to the impact of cancer in their life” – Sue Titcumb, left
ing, will be able to work through it themselves, but sometimes you need more support,” she said.
“I think patients find that seeing a psychologist in this setting is less confronting and that it’s just part of their medical care.
“They have that feeling of ‘well this is part of my team’.”
Ms Titcumb said she would provide client-facing appointments where possible, but that some consults would remain as a telehealth service.
She said she could also help with making suggestions for other services for a client’s family or ongoing services for the client.
Grampians Health general manager allied and mental health Georgie Kemp said the psychology department’s service now offered through the Wimmera Cancer Centre was invaluable to Wimmera patients.
“Grampians Health has been providing a telehealth service to clients at Wimmera Cancer Centre, but clientfacing can make a difference for some cancer patients,” she said. Wimmera Cancer Centre patients wishing to utilise the psychology service can speak to their cancer resource nurse or inquire at the centre.
An increase in relationship conflicts in the Grampians region has led to the introduction of a new couples therapy service in Ararat.
The Grampians Community Health service provides a face-to-face option for couples wanting to address their relationship issues.
Couples therapist Stephanie Carroll said she had noticed an increase in the number of individuals with relationship issues during her two years as a counsellor at GCH.
“Through my work with individuals who discuss issues they are having in a relationship, it became very apparent that there was a need for a couple’s therapist,” she said.
“It was difficult to refer people to an appropriate service. The nearest relationships service is in Ballarat and could provide telehealth services, but a lot of people want the connection that comes from face-to-face interactions.”
Ms Carroll has trained in couples therapy through Gottman Therapy, a research-based approach that has proven to be beneficial.
“Gottman Therapy offers couples a lot of practical tools that they can practice, such as different ways of talking to each other, different ways of getting individual needs met in the relationship, without becoming angry or aggressive,” she said.
“Often when we’re in conflict, emotions are heightened and you get flooded with stress hormones. This system is about teaching people the skills they need to talk to each other in a way that is healthy.”
Gottman research shows that 70 per cent of conflict is perpetual but can be dealt with in a healthy way.
“Conflict is a healthy part of relationships,
“Often when we’re in conflict, emotions are heightened and you get flooded with stress hormones”
– Stephanie Carroll
but it’s about teaching couples how to be in conflict in a healthy way – to be able to compromise and understand the other’s needs,”
Ms Carroll said.
“Understanding that conflict is a part of a relationship can be a light bulb moment for people.”
Ms Carroll said Gottman Therapy, developed by American clinical psychologists
Dr John Gottman and Dr Julie Schwartz
Gottman, uses a Sound Relationship House theory that focused on improving relationships through effective communication, conflict management and emotional connection.
“When you’re raising children and working it makes it hard to find time to connect and work on friendship, so that is made a priority in the work we do,” she said.
“A couple might be gridlocked on a particular issue and the therapy supports each partner to unpack the importance of the issue and the art of compromise.
“The over-arching intervention with Gottman Therapy is the idea that strong relationships have a strong friendship base.”
Ms Carroll encouraged couples to react to the early warning signs of a decline in a relationship or a lack of intimacy.
“Couples therapy is a great intervention at that point rather than waiting until a relationship is in crisis,” she said.
Anyone interested in the new fee-for-service counselling can call 5358 7400 and ask for a couples therapy referral.
is taking the next step in her education and career journey.
The Centre for Participation in Horsham has celebrated Jess Sorrell, a learner from Laneway Café, as she takes the next step in her education and career journey.
Jess has been part of Laneway Café’s social enterprise learning program for the past three years, where she developed practical hospitality skills across all areas of café operations, including food preparation, customer service, barista work, and point-of-sale systems.
Through structured learning, mentoring, and goal setting, Jess grew in confidence, independence, and workplace readiness.
Jess has now enrolled in a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and has commenced vocational placement at Bennett Road Kindergarten.
Centre for Participation chief executive Robbie Millar said Jess’s journey reflected the purpose of the organisation’s social enterprises.
“We are incredibly proud of how far Jess has come over the past three years,” he said.
“Laneway Café exists to provide real learning environments where people can build skills, confidence, and belief in what they’re capable of.
“Jess embraced every oppor-
tunity, and it’s been a privilege to watch her grow.”
Mr Millar said a farewell afternoon tea for Jess was both a celebration and a milestone.
“While we’ll miss seeing Jess at the café, we’re excited to watch her take this next step. She has worked hard, shown real commitment, and we know she will thrive in her studies and placement,” he said.
“We have no doubt she will do exceptionally well in the early childhood sector.” Jess’s transition highlights the role of social enterprises like Laneway Café in creating inclusive pathways into further education and employment.
DRESSED TO IMPRESS: Rides, food, music, games and fireworks were features of Lake Henley on Wallace’s annual family festival at the weekend. Always a much anticipated and highly entertaining part of the festivities is the procession through Edenhope’s main street, with prizes awarded for floats in senior and junior categories. Pictured during Saturday’s parade are, clockwise from above: Lilo and Stitch float; Kath and Kim float; Teddy and Amy Dubois, 101 Dalmations float; the Love Bug float; Paul Ryan and Allan Lear of The Flintstones; and Della Irving and Eddie McIntosh.
www.ararat.vic.gov.au
Applications are now open for the current round of Ararat Rural City Council Community Support Grants. The program offers clubs and community groups the chance to secure funding for projects, programs, activities and events. Grants of up to $3,000 and $5,000 are available. To apply, scan the QR code! Applications are open until 5pm Monday 2 March 2026, and we do encourage you to apply. We can't wait to see what the community has planned!
The Eagles Story is a celebration of the iconic songs that The Eagles brought to life; 'Hotel California', 'Desperado', 'Witchy Woman' and a whole lot more. Coming to the Ararat Town Hall on Saturday 28 February 2026, whether you're a die-hard fan or simply love a great night out packed with brilliant music, The Eagles Story is a guaranteed great night out. Tickets are available at the Ararat Town Hall website or by scanning the QR code.
Council urges motorists to drive to conditions on gravel roads in the municipality. The low rainfall means water supplies are light on, and as a result, we're reducing our road grading works. The grading schedule will ramp up again once more water is available, so please take care in the meantime on gravel roads, especially if the surface is loose, corrugated or rutted. While grading is paused, we're working on other projects you can see on Engage Ararat.
From the producers of Celtic Illusion comes Ireland: The Voyage, a spectacular new celebration of Ireland's history, heart and heritage. Power vocalist Giselle O'Meara leads a cast of world-class dancers and live musicians straight from Ireland. Don't miss this live experience at the Ararat Town Hall on Saturday 21 March 2026 from 7:30PM. Get your tickets now via the QR code.
Just a friendly reminder to residents who park their cars in the Ararat CBD that it's illegal to park in a Loading Zone. Loading Zones are there for couriers and other professional delivery services to collect or drop off at local businesses, and aren't for shop owners or shoppers to park in, no matter how briefly, even if it's a quick duck into the shops. There is plenty of free parking in town, so let's be considerate.
TRADITION: Horsham College year-12 students continued a tradition of fancy dress at the college’s annual swimming sports on Friday. Pictured before the whole-school event are, clockwise from above: Jaxon Crooks, Angus Slatter, Harry Millar, Jake Brennan, Lenix Nelson, Jagger Doolan and Jed Pohlner; Loraxes Asha Fiedler, Claire Martin, Layla Preston, Violet McGennisken and Chloe Reinheimer; Lesley Geus, Brianna Martin, Taleisha Shiells, Ellie Slorach, Jess McCluskey and Wah Say Paw Pay Hae; Orlan Hart and Julia Hastings; Nash McKenzie, Remi Bailey, Jordan Dumesny and Max Schultz; and Charlotte Henwood, Hayley Toet and Hannah Mackereth.
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From The Weekly Advertiser archives: February 23, 2006 –Horsham cyclist Mark O’Brien joined an elite group that included his idol Shane Kelly when he was named Horsham Sports and Community Club Sports Star of the Year. The 18-year-old road cyclist beat a strong field of nominees to take the title and said he was honoured to join an esteemed group that included his Ararat Olympian idol.
10 years ago: February 17, 2016
The Willaura community was gearing up for its annual Farm to Pub event. Hosted by Moyston-Willaura Football Netball Club and the Willaura community, it started in 2003 as a challenge between the extended Joyce family, and developed into a widely supported community event. The previous year’s event attracted 130 people and raised almost $4000.
Five years ago: February 17, 2021
Yarriambiack Shire Council was planning a $4-million housing project of 14 two-bedroom units across five of its towns, aimed at a retiree demographic. Mayor Graeme Massey and chief executive Jessie Holmes were set to meet with planning minister Richard Wynne to seek funding for the project from the State Government’s $5.3-million Big Housing Build program.
One year ago: February 19, 2025
Ararat had the services of a pop-up library at Alexandra Oval while the town’s library building was being revamped. The $200,000 project, funded through Ararat Rural City Council’s capital works program, included flexible mobile shelving, new furniture and quiet spaces, replacement floorings, two additional public-use computers, and modernised signage for the building’s exterior.
FOR THE WEEK FEBRUARY 15 TO FEBRUARY 21
ARIES (March 21 – April 20)
Lucky Colour: Black Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 5, 7, 11, 3 Lotto Numbers: 6, 12, 16, 20, 23, 27
Travel plans may be delayed or cancelled unexpectedly. Family matters will hold particular importance, so stay open-hearted. Career progress is possible, but avoid burning yourself out. Accept help when it’s offered.
1. Born Shane Jenek on this day in 1982, was which Australian drag queen, pop singer and entertainer, who first came to prominence on Australian Idol in 2003?
2. Ribes rubrum is the Latin name for which fruit?
3. Which playwright wrote The Mousetrap in 1952?
4. Australia achieved its best-ever Winter Olympic performance at the 2022 Beijing Games – how many medals were won: two, four, or six?
5. Michael Crichton wrote which science fiction bestseller, a cautionary tale about genetic engineering?
6. In Roman numerals, MCC is equivalent to what?
7. Who painted The Scream in 1893?
8. Clio is a car model produced by which manufacturer?
9. Camembert is a cheese traditionally made from the milk of which animal?
10. Richard Curtis and Lenny Henry are the founders of which organisation – Toastmasters, Comic Relief, or Missionaries of Charity?
11. Piccadilly Circus is a famous square in which city?
12. Which of these names – Valerie, Gloria or Norma – is mentioned in Elton John’s 1973 song Candle in the Wind?
13. Dying of throat cancer on this day at the age of 62, was which American theoretical physicist, known as the father of the atomic bomb?
TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)
Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 4, 2, 7, 1 Lotto Numbers: 10, 11, 21, 28, 31, 33
Energy is returning and health matters should begin to improve. You may find your domestic situation brings out your best qualities. Financially, there’s a chance for things to take a favourable turn.
GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)
Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 5, 2, 8, 4 Lotto Numbers: 8, 18, 20, 25, 26, 35
Career prospects are looking up, and financial returns should reflect the effort you’re putting in. A surprise gift or the rediscovery of a lost item could add joy to your week.
CANCER (June 22 - July 22)
Lucky Colour: White Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 2, 2, 8, 5 Lotto Numbers: 16, 24, 27, 30, 37, 43
Stop waiting for luck to find you, now is the time to chase your goals. Be proactive, especially when it comes to finances. With persistence, good results will follow.
LEO (July 23 - August 22)
Lucky Colour: Brown Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 4, 2, 7, 5 Lotto Numbers: 12, 22, 28, 32, 33, 40
You should be feeling great and ticking off some long-term goals. Expect a surprise from someone you least expect. A bit of good luck may come from a Libra in your life.
VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)
Lucky Colour: Lilac Lucky Day: Monday
Racing Numbers: 5, 5, 7, 3 Lotto Numbers: 5, 13, 21, 28, 34, 35
It might be time to take a break and recharge. Much of what you’ve started recently will take care of itself. Loved ones may surprise you with a gesture of appreciation.
LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)
Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 4, 8, 7, 8 Lotto Numbers: 4, 14, 15, 28, 34, 41
Think before you act, and don’t push your partner too far or you could miss out on something truly special. Communication and patience are your keys to connection this week.
SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)
Lucky Colour: Orange Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 9, 1, 7, 4 Lotto Numbers: 2, 9, 17, 25, 37, 42
A new fitness regime may be calling your name, but pace yourself. On the home front, speak up about your needs. This is a good time to set the record straight and get everyone on the same page.
SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)
Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Monday
Racing Numbers: 3, 3, 6, 7 Lotto Numbers: 3, 9, 19, 25, 36, 41
Answers: 1. Courtney Act. 2. Red currant. 3. Agatha Christie. 4. Four – one gold, two silver and one bronze. 5. Jurassic Park. 6. 1200. 7. Edvard Munch. 8. Renault. 9. Cow. 10. Comic Relief. 11. London. 12. Norma. 13. Robert Oppenheimer. Getting in touch with The Weekly
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; Lily Olver: 0411 784 001, lolver@aceradio.com.au; James Davidson: 0439 820 014, jdavidson@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 publisher and general manager is Brendan O’Loughlin, C/- 2 Stawell Road, Horsham, for Ace Radio Broadcasters Pty Ltd, ACN 064 882 042. The Weekly Advertiser is a free paper printed by Newsprinters Pty Ltd, 1 McKoy Street, West Wodonga, and distributed by regional distributors and Australia Post.
Avoid rushing into decisions, especially if someone seems to be playing games. Keep your promises, especially when it comes to finances. You’ll avoid unnecessary tension by staying true to your word.
CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)
Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 4, 7, 7, 1 Lotto Numbers: 4, 7, 14, 21, 22, 43
Life may feel non-stop at the moment, so think before you act. If something can go wrong, it might, but sticking to familiar routines and keeping a close eye on your wellbeing will help.
AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)
Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Tuesday
Racing Numbers: 5, 1, 8, 3 Lotto Numbers: 7, 8, 19, 27, 37, 40
Keep business and pleasure separate this week. When working with others, be direct as avoiding the issue will only create confusion. Someone around you may be showing more interest than expected.
PISCES (February 20 - March 20)
Lucky Colour: Yellow Lucky Day: Friday
Racing Numbers: 9, 1, 7, 3 Lotto Numbers: 9, 10, 20, 21, 29, 44
Progress may feel slow and frustrating, like you’re moving two steps forward and three back. Try to stay calm because this mood will pass. In business or sensitive matters, think twice before joking as others may not see the humour.
USpresident Donald Trump said he would raise duties on South Korean imports – including cars – to 25 per cent, from a 15 per cent level brokered last year.
The announcement sees South Korea join a growing list of overseas markets targeted by the Trump administration’s tariffs, which analysts say is expected to hand Japanese importers a distinct advantage over Chinese and Korean competitors.
Increasing tariff’s on South Koreanmade cars not only places OEMs including Hyundai and Kia at a disadvantage, but also General Motors, which builds models for the United States that include the Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer in South Korea.
President Trump defended the announcement on social media saying the Korean parliament had yet to approve the trade deal reached last July to lower duties to 15 per cent.
“Because the Korean Legislature hasn’t enacted our Historical Trade Agreement, which is their prerogative, I am hereby increasing South Korean tariffs on autos, lumber, pharmaceuticals, and all other reciprocal tariffs from 15 to 25 per cent,” he wrote on Truth Social.
US automotive publication Automotive News said any increase on tariffs upon South Korea was a ‘headache’ for export-dependent Hyundai Motor
produces some vehicles in Georgia in the United States, it still relies heavily on imported vehicles across the majority of its model lines.
The outlet says a 25 per cent tariff would place South Korean exports at a ‘significant disadvantage to Japanese competitors’, which face a lower 15 per cent rate.
South Korean government officials are said to be ‘scrambling’ to implement a trade deal, with Yonhap News
HEADACHE: Increasing tariff’s on South Koreanmade cars not only places OEMs including Hyundai and Kia at a disadvantage, but also General Motors, which builds models for the United States that include the Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer in South Korea.
“The Trump administration had sent a letter two weeks prior to Seoul petitioning the government to finalise implementation of the 15 per cent accord,” it reported.
The latest trade stoush comes as President Trump threatens 100 per cent tariffs on Canada after Prime cent, down from 106.1 per cent, in exchange for tariff reductions on Canadian agricultural produce, including lobster, crab, and canola. Automotive News says President Trump has ‘walked back’ a tariff threat made earlier this month against the European Union over opposition
GeelyHolding Group has announced details of a five-year strategic blueprint it says will strengthen top-level co-ordination and global collaboration to become a leader among global auto-makers.
The parent brand of automotive manufacturers that include Benelli, Farizon, Zeekr, Geely Auto, Keeway, London EV Company, Lotus, Lynk and Co, Polestar, Proton, QJ Motor, Radar Auto, Smart, Volvo Cars – and significant stake holder of Aston Martin and Renault’s Horse Powertrain – says it aims to achieve global sales of more than 6.5-million vehicles annually by 2030, producing revenue exceeding $204.5-billion.
With its sights on the new energy vehicle market, Geely says it aims to become a top-five player in the global market, with 75 per cent of all vehicles produced headed to export markets, and covering a broad range of vehicle types across the A to E-model classification.
Reductions in research and development times, new platforms, and reduced costs will assist Geely in becoming more competitive at scale, its ‘One Geely’ global brand matrix to further ‘strengthen the Geely corporate brand’ while fully leveraging the strength of its growing list of subsidiaries and joint ventures.
“Geely Holding will fully leverage the brand advantages of Geely Auto, Geely Galaxy, Lynk and Co, and Zeekr, giving full play to their home advantage and access to localised operational capabilities of global brands such as Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus in the European and American markets,” the company revealed in a statement.
“In addition, the group will work with international partners such as Renault Group to create a new paradigm of open collaborative and mutually beneficial brand co-operation.”
Over the next four years, Geely will centre its efforts on what it describes as a ‘seven dimension’ approach, centred upon a technological ecosystem encompassing intelligent driving, intelligent cockpit, electrical and electronic architecture, vehicle architecture, battery, electric drive, and super hybrid powertrains suggesting a strengthened push into the new energy vehicle market.
Geely says it will develop the ‘world’s most advanced intelligent driving technology platform’, achieving full coverage of L2 assisted driving while ‘rapidly advancing’ L3 and L4 capabilities.
New fuels and combustion engine technologies are also on Geely’s radar, its next generation NordThor AI hybrid engine expected to achieve a thermal efficiency figure of more than 50 per cent, far exceeding current market norms.
Safety including active, passive and battery
safety priorities will likewise be further strengthened, with Geely saying it aims to ‘accelerate the evolution of safety from single vehicles to an entire ecosystem encompassing people, vehicles, roads, cloud, and space’.
The last point in that statement is one that has certainly piqued the attention of other global car manufacturers, no doubt including Tesla.
Geely says it is working to accelerate the development of an integrated spare-air-ground ecosystem developed alongside Chinese firms Qianli Technology, Cao Cao Mobility, Aerofugia, and Geespace to offer coverage across major cities in China, providing self-driving technology and Mobility Robotaxis both at home – and eventually overseas.
The Chinese conglomerate is also working on a methanol-hydrogen electric vehicle ecosystem it says has already proved itself via a fleet of ‘over 50,000’ vehicles already in operation.
It is a fuel type Geely says can be modified to power automobiles, ships, mining machinery, construction machinery, generators and other fields, particularly those in remote areas and across long-distance logistical routes.
The company says it has already developed a supply chain covering methanol production, transportation, refuelling and vehicle manufacturing it hopes to intensify before the end of the current decade.
To ensure the ongoing development of future technologies, Geely says it is investing in educational projects to ‘cultivate’ new professionals across its portfolio, ensuring both current and next-generation employees bring value to the company’s ‘talent pool’.
Geely says this approach will continue to deepen its ‘talent forest’ strategy, further expanding its strategic development in those fore mentioned fields.
The program centres not only on current and new employees, but offers high-school level incentive programs that will allow the company to directly recruit high-school graduates, offering ‘targeted training’ to develop employees who are ‘more proactive, effective, and practically innovative’.
For a company with just 40 years’ experience it seems Geely is holding nothing back in its push to become a global automotive powerhouse. Under the ‘One Geely’ banner, the drive to become what it says is a ‘globally leading intelligent electric mobility technology company’ seems well within the company’s reach, investing sums of money other OEMs cannot possibly hope to match.
BYD Australia says that virtually nothing is off the table when it comes to the updated Shark 6 plug-in hybrid ute, which is due to land in showrooms later this year with more power, boosted towing capacity and cab-chassis options across an expanded variant line-up.
The Chinese car-maker’s Australian arm has also strongly hinted that plans are afoot to develop a version of the petrol-electric dual-cab for those who want ‘more hardcore off-road capability’.
Already one of Australia’s best-selling vehicles despite being offered in a single configuration appealing mainly to private buyers, upgrades coming to the Shark 6 range are expected to blood the water for locals keen to utilise the model for off-road touring, trade, and commercial work.
Confirmed to feature a larger, more powerful 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol engine as part of beefed-up plug-in hybrid driveline sourced from sister company Denza – which also offers front and rear locking differentials – the updated Shark 6 is set to offer considerably more power than is currently available from the 1.5-litre unit.
At present, the Shark 6’s petrol engine develops 135kW with a further
CONFIRMED: BYD has confirmed a beefed-up Shark 6 ute with greater towing, off-road and tradie appeal is on the horizon.
170kW, provided by the front electric motor. These figures will be increased to 180kW and 200kW respectively, with output of the rear electric motor to remain unchanged at 150kW.
Total system power, therefore, will jump from 321kW to 345kW. No torque values have been provided at this point in time.
Increased outputs and other changes will assist BYD in offering the revised Shark 6 with a braked towing capacity
that will match rivals, jumping from 2500kg to the segment benchmark of 3500kg.
However, with an increase in braked towing capacity – and a heavier kerb weight of 2738kg – the facelifted Shark 6 is understood to offer a reduced payload of 762kg, which will fall to just 412kg with a 3500kg trailer in tow.
Larger front disc brakes will help manage the Shark 6’s extra weight.
There is no news yet on changes to the size and chemistry of the model’s battery pack.
As a rival to the Ford Ranger PHEV and GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, the BYD Shark 6 is currently priced from $57,900 plus on-road costs with no word yet on any increase in the model’s list price.
BYD sold 18,073 examples of the Shark 6 Down Under last year, well beyond that of its plug-in rivals and
placing it between diesel four-wheel drive ute stalwards, the Isuzu D-Max and Mitsubishi Triton, to finish 2025 as the segment’s fourth best seller.
Speaking with GoAuto at the launch of the BYD Sealion 5 medium SUV and Sealion 8 large SUV last week, BYD Australia chief commercial officer Stephen Collins said the driveline changes were just part of the upgrade suite expected for the Shark 6 range.
“We are looking at a variety of changes, and obviously a part of our fleet strategy is a cab-chassis version of the Shark 6,” he said.
“In the longer term, and where Ford’s Ranger and Toyota’s HiLux have been particularly successful, is offering a variety of high-spec, lowspec, and mid-spec variants, so that everything is available.
“While we have been very happy with the single-spec Shark 6 on offer to date, when we look at the market, we see there is opportunity there.”
Mr Collins told GoAuto full details of the updates to the Shark 6 range would not be revealed until the model’s on-sale date later this year, but said a continual line of communication with the factory meant Australian buyers could expect a more diverse model line-up, potentially with a more off-road focussed variant at its helm.
– Matt Brogan
Based on unprecedented reader and listener demand, we encourage regional tradebased businesses to become part of The Weekly Advertiserʼs Local Trade Directory. The Local Trade Directory offers the only true multi-media platform combining print, radio and online services for businesses to ʻspread the wordʼ in across the Wimmera, Mallee and Grampians.
and effective!
Fill in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and 3x3 block.
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.
Created: Ted Whillier
Fit the numbers 1-6 once into every hexagon so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers are the same. No number is repeated in any single hexagon.
(nee Russell), Shirley Lorraine
Passed away on February 13, 2026 aged 90 years.
Dearly loved wife of Ab (dec).
Loving mother and mother in law of Doug & Debbie; Rob & Liz; Liz & Greg.
Adored Gran to Megan & Danny, Luke & Leah; Justin & Katrina, Nathan & Karen, and Daniel.
Great Gran to Kielan, Oscar, Joey, Jake, Aaron, Katie and Khloe. Reunited with Ab
CLARKE, Yvonne Jean
Passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, aged 79, at Estia Health aged care home, Kangaroo Flat. She had fought so hard to maintain her independence while struggling with her Parkinson’s disease for 16 years.
Dearly loved sister of Noeleen White, Rodney & Jenny Clarke and Maree Barry. Her funeral will be held on Friday, February 27 at 11am at Napier Park Funerals, 420 Napier St, Bendigo.
RODDA, Howard Leonard Roy
Passed away on February 15, 2026 aged 102 years.
Dearly loved husband of June (dec).
Loving father and father-inlaw of Leonard & Sharon; and Felicity.
Loved Pa & Grandpa to Selena, Ashley & Curtis; Danny, Quinten & Kirsty.
Cherished by all his great grandchildren and great great grandchild In God’s Care
STREETER, Robert Kenneth ‘Bob’ of Warracknabeal, on February 8, 2026
Loved husband of Beverly Diane (dec) and partner of Raelene.
Loved father & father-in-law of Garry & Meredith, Pamela, Barbara & Chris, Tracy & Andrew, Robyn & Gerrard.
Loved grandfather & great grandfather to their families.
Loved brother & brother-inlaw of David & Mal, Betty (dec).
BAKER, Marie Terese
7-10-1932 to 10-2-2026
Family & friends are advised that Marie’s funeral service will be held at the Dimboola
St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Tuesday, February 24 at 11am
Interment to follow at the Dimboola Cemetery.
Emiley & Mathew Bone
Nhill, Dimboola & Kaniva District Funerals 0419 008 464
BRAGONJE, Shirley Lorraine
The Funeral of Shirley Lorraine Bragonje will take place at The Graveside, Horsham Lawn Cemetery on Friday, 20 February 2026 commencing at 10am.
Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member
RODDA, Howard Leonard Roy
The funeral of Howard Leonard Roy Rodda will leave St Andrew’s Uniting Church, Horsham on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 after a service commencing at 2pm for the Horsham Lawn Cemetery.
The service may also be viewed online at horsham. unitingchurch.org.au/watch
Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member
STREETER
The funeral of Mr Robert Kenneth ‘Bob’ Streeter will leave the Uniting Church (Anglican Service) Warracknabeal on Monday February 23, 2026 after a service commencing at 10am for the Warracknabeal Lawn Cemetery.
W.B. Gardiner & Son
Funeral Directors Warracknabeal 0407 340 064
Kelpie x Staghound male pup , 6.5 months old, sandy colour, microchip # 953010007025025280, vac x 3, basic handling, is affectionate, big, and boisterous, POA Ph 0428994210
Port Fairy 4-bedroom getaway with ocean views, just $1500! Call Langley’s now 03 5568 2899 to book, excluding school holidays
Port Fairy 4-bedroom getaway with pool table, just $1100! Call Langley’s now 03 5568 2899 to book, excluding school holidays
Available now 2 Spoodle boys & 2 Spoodle girls are looking for their Furever Families, born on the 16th of October, raised in a loving family home with children and other dogs, cats and farm animals have had their 6 week vet check with first vaccination, microchip and have been wormed regularly, microchip# 95600019516180, 956000019521435, 956000019515465, 956000019523017, 956000019519593, source# RB265884 located just out of Stawell $2500 please call Simone on 0400035456 for more information
Bristlenose catfish, great tank cleaners $5ea until sold out Ph 0474159010 after 6.30pm
Budgies, assorted colours $10 each Ph 0417533579
Budgies , including white to yellow, assorted colours $10 each Ph 0428010996
Kildare Border Collies (formerly of Donald, now located in Haven via Horsham) have 9 x pure bred puppies for sale at $1,750.00 - $1,950.00 each. We have been breeding border collies for over 60 years and strive to breed quality true to type and temperament in our puppies. They have calm natures and make excellent working dogs or family pets, 3 x chocolate & white puppies with astonishing blue/green eyes, (2 male & 1 female), 6 x puppies (3 male & 3 female) have piercing dark eyes and traditional black & white markings, currently 7 weeks of age (born 02/12/2025), all have fun loving natures and ready to find their forever homes, all microchipped, vet checked, vaccinated & wormed, Microchip Nos. 953010008027063, 953010008027355, 953010008027174, 953010008027030, 953010008027133, 953010008027056, 953010008027037, 953010008027059, 953010008027227, Source Number EE288211 Ph 0429826899
The Weekly Advertiser welcomes your advertising.
We are required strictly by law to include specific information on some items when publishing your adv your obligations are as follows:
ANIMALS -
*All “for sale” or “to give away” advertisements, for either cats or dogs must include one of the following:
• Individual microchip numbers
• Vet certificate to exclude individual animals from needing microchips
• Domestic animal-business number
PLUS a source number from the Pet Exchange Register
LIVESTOCK*Selling, giving away or bartering of all livestock must include a Property Identification Code (PIC number) in the advertisement.
Mini Foxy/Jack Russell pups
5 males, vet checked, vacc, wormed, micro chipped, 95301 0006692905/9530100066359 13/953010006635784/95301 0006635783/953010006689 902, Source# is MB116953 Ph 0409350743 or 0458913225
Pet care for female greyhound in Horsham fortnightly for 3 hours while I grocery shop Ph David 0427864628
SquareMeater x Murray
Gray, 4 yr old gray bull, 3yr old brown bull, a few cows, proven breeders, compact and muscly, commercial herd, NLIS, vaccinated, PIC# 3YKM L014 Ph 0428994210 Warracknabeal
2010 Paradise Grande
Caravan, Length over all 25 foot, Dual air conditioning, Washing Machine, Fridge Freezer, Full Annex. Van in VGC. Host of extras. $27,000 Inspection invited, offers considered. ph 0417580747
2012 Regent Cruiser, 18’, Tare 1800kg, shower & toilet, single beds, all modern comforts, as new tyres & battery, semi-offroad, only travelled a few thousand km’s, priced to sell $31,000 ono Ph 03 53870522
2014 Billabong Grove 17’6 twin beds, toilet & shower, large fridge, lots of storage, stored undercover when not traveling, more extras $30,000 Ph 0419434790
REDUCED 2007 Billabong pop-top caravan, EC, double bed, air con, 3way fridge, elec brakes, gas and elec cooking, new awning $18,500 Ph 0409182376
REDUCED 2018 Dingo Ultimate Camper, heavy duty top of the line off-road trailer including boat rack, fully enclosed annexe including ensuite, lots of storage, built-in instant gas hot water to sink and shower, dual AGM batteries and built-in inverter and charger, innerspring mattress and ability to make up second double bed, two new off-road tyres, VGC, Y76535 $15,500ono Ph 0407360212
REDUCED
$57,000 Ph 0401986201
New Age 2013 , queen bed, TV, large fridge, microwave, gas/electric hot plates, toilet, shower, washing machine, full annex, sway bars, $39,000 Ph 0427778747
REDUCED Toyota Coaster camper, 2 seater, diesel heater, 1hz motor, solar and 12v awning much more $30,000 Ph 0418325662
Sentiveco daily/5th wheeler combo, set up for off grid, too many extras to list, was $102,000 now $97,000 Ph 0438149265
Deb Dress For Sale , Size: 10-12, worn once, excellent condition, dry cleaned, $400 Ph: 0429802767
Inter Truck C1600, 72 Butter
Box model, Jonker hoist, 14’, new head and radiator, front new tyres $5000 Ph 0429857207
Silvan Boom Spray , 80ft Superior Boom 3,000 + 1,000 litre tanks custom, made to suit J, C, B, Tractor $20,000 Ph 0427824233
Slasher 3PL J.Berands EP135, 4’6’’ cut wheel kit as new $2300, Small Bale Pickup loader Irish $120, Hay Stack Elevator $120, PH 0427 871 404
Small square bale hay stack elevator $120 Ph 0494034244
2 swags $300 total, health sauna $4000, electric boat motor $200, taking best offers on: igloo tent, train set and antique wooden table Ph 0429948774
Bath Cast Iron, EC Pale Pink $200 Ph 53826461 or 0429 309 491
Bikes one ladies, one mans, good order, $170 each ono Ph 0429820692
Camper Trailer, all excellent condition $1500 Ph 0478254195
CCE cage on wheels 6x4 well made $400 ono, 500 gallon ex fuel tank $100 ono, Coolgardie safe $100 ono, Ute crate, 6x4 tub tight $50 ono, Bailey extension ladder 5.3 extends to 6.3 $500 ono, new Holland Mower GC with parts, 44g drums ideal for grain feeding cattle, best offer Ph 0429857207
FOR SALE Teak TV Cabinet 2 shelves 2 glass doors at bottom, 151H x 104W x 700 as new $60, large towing mirrors $40 Ph 0409967815 pick up Horsham. Four arm walker , $150 ph0437600095
Fresh Farm eggs! $5 a dozen Ph 0423182267
Gold and opal ring, approx 80yrs old, current valuation $4500 would like $1000 Ph 0458014560
Industrial Extensions Ladder (Gorilla), closed 3.7 EXT 8.5 $475, Ph 53826461 or 0429 309 491
Kayak Dragon , 3.6m, 2.5 seater, green & white, very good condition, support seats, paddles, buoyancy vests, $450 Ph 0407340345
L shaped lockable 5 glass shelf display case, with 5 downlights, 500mm lockable storage at bottom, 2.125 mm x 3.180mm x 400mm wide x 2.14mm high, $6200 ono, or lay by, can be dismantled to a flatpack, MINERALS NOT INCLUDED Ph 0428564422
Masseuse Therapeutic
Dual-Pro massage chair, 2 yrs old, as new, cost $11,000 sell
$5,000 ono Ph 0413832765
Ararat
Pea straw small square bales
$8 per bale, great garden mulch, pickup or delivery to Ph 0488303725
Radial arm saw bench OMGA
240v, tungsten blade, $460 Ph 0428535646
REDUCED 7x4 tool trailer, $2500 ono Ph 0407285097
REDUCED Flat deck tandem
trailer, 4.2m x 2.3m, $3400 ono Ph 0407285097
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
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
Wood Heater Flues, 4 x 150mm (6’’) Dia, x 900mm SS inner flues, with 2 x cowls (for changeover) 2 x 200mm gal inner roof sections, 2 x 200mm. Decorative, recently Powder-coated BLACK flue guard sections, with matching black ceiling ring. Excellent condition, $320 Ph 0427042750
Nhill
Wood Thicknesser , Barker 2’, AE Herbert 1’ buzzer, sold together $2000 Ph 53524764
Lift Bed, IC333 four function, used 6 months, includes cool balance 10’ mattress $3000 each 2 available Ph 0417156434
Horsham
15’ fibreglass clinker inboard boat, no motor, make an offer Ph 0407179433
16’ Yacht TS16 446, 2 & 6 HP Suzuki OB`s, 2 sets of sails, Dunbier tilt trailer U58751, reg TS446 $4000 Ph 53542787
3.7 savage aluminium boat, UM198, 20 HP Mercury
Immaculate family ski boat, 1993 Ski craft 5.6 meters, 350 Chev, regularly serviced, new gel coat, new bimini, refurbished rolco easy tow trailer, stereo system, and high pole included, boat rego CV679, trailer rego D81783 $15,900 Ph 0409180016
Stacer Aluminium boat, 3.6m boat with trailer and 9.9hp Evinrude motor, comes with 3 adult life jackets, 2 child life jackets and fish finder $1800 Ph 0417105439
Electric Scooter, disc brakes, carrier, 2 speeds, back shockers, brand new, helmet included $820 Ph 0428425686
Quickie electric wheelchair hardly used, EC $16,000 neg Ph 0429881523
2004 Harley Davidson Heritage softail, screaming eagle pipes saddle bags, great condition, 25xxxkms, $17,000 Ph 0409406366 Stawell
2018 KTM 65 , 2nd owner, powerful little motorbike, ready to go! $3200 ono Ph 0447316525
Yamaha upright piano , excellent condition, regularly tuned $1000 or reasonable offer, Ph 0418129474
IRONMAN SLIDE AWAY Ute
slide louvre tub cover 2023
Ford Ranger next gen $700 Ph 0439377524
Reduced alloy nudge bar, will suit Land Cruiser Prado 150 Series, $125 Ph 53569340 or 0412482521 Landsborough
Roof rack Alloy Tradesman with mesh floor $500 Ph 0418138329 Stawell
2004 Mitsubishi Magna , all wheel drive, not going, vin# 6MMTL9F424T024238, 320,000km $800 Ph 0419303839
Mercedes Benz, A160 4 Door, REG QSG616 lovely ladies car, rwc provided, $3000, ph 0432226061 or 0419509335
turbo diesel, 4x2, Tommy Gate loader 460kgs, RWC, reg til 19/1/26, 285,658kms, 1DQ6HB $23,990 Ph 0466375088
2018 Toyota Landcruiser Prado GXL, auto, 4x4, EC, 1LZ3FW, 190,000kms $39,500 Ph 0431603221
2019 Jaguar 25 F Pace R Sport sedan, R/W, gen reason for sale, EC, AWP498, $26,000 Ph 0428382790
2019 XL Ford Ranger, white 4x4, ute/steel tray and locked undertray boxes, RWC, bull bar, tow bar, snorkel, rear camera, gen reason for sale, EC, 89,761kms, 1RO-7EC $42,000 Ph 0428382790
2022 Nissan Navara cab chassis, 4 by 2, turbo diesel, 7 speed auto, RWC supplied, bullbar, driving lights and towbar, extended warranty, 65,100kms, $29,000 Ph 0429942637
Ford Escape Trend ST Line 2022 97,000km
Proton Jumbuck Ute 2011 , unregistered 24,224ks $5000 ph0437600095 PLIC97PNRAB016095
REDUCED 2007 Ford Mondeo hatchback, diesel, very good condition, 150110 kms, UPS985 $6000Ph 0487313892
2017 Holden Trailblazer
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BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
Ladder leader Central Park and reigning premier Horsham Lawn boosted their credentials as likely Central Wimmera Tennis Association pennant grand finalists with a pair of dominant wins at the weekend.
The Parkers thrashed Kalkee in a dominant performance, winning 13-110 to 1-39 at their Baillie Street home courts.
The Kees nearly caused an early upset when Jeff Friberg and Luke Byrne took Harry Allan and Reece Harman to a tiebreak, but the Central Park pair prevailed 8-7, and breezed through the rest of the opening doubles rubbers.
The shorthanded Kees were forced to play Meaghan Pohlner in the men’s section, where she competed admirably alongside doubles partners Friberg, Byrne and Aiden Richardson throughout the day. Kalkee’s sole rubber win came through Friberg, who defeated Allen 8-6 in the singles draw, but the Parkers refused to surrender more than five games in any other rubber in what was a comprehensive victory.
Horsham Lawn received a more testing hitout against visiting St Michaels, but prevailed 10-103 to 4-80.
Half of the rubbers played were decided by 8-6 or 8-7 scorelines, with the men’s draw particularly hard fought.
Saints Steve Schultz and Nick Robertson defeated August Koch and Lachlan Punchard in a tiebreak to get their team on the board, and Schultz backed it up in the singles to down Koch 8-3.
Lawn number one man Jae McGrath helped balance the scoresheet for his side however, pairing with D’Artagnan Walls to beat Eli Bailey and Peter Hayes 8-6 and downing Bailey 8-3 in their singles match-up.
There were close results in the women’s draw as well, with Lawn’s Ella and Tahlia Thompson beating
FAMILY TIME:
Ethan, Bruce, Renae and Charlie Maher continued a family theme at Horsham Lawn Tennis Club, playing a senior match together for the first time on Saturday. They played for B Special team Lawn Bardell, named for life member Elsie Bardell, Renae’s mother.
Saints Mia Rees and Jess Cannane 8-6 before Tahlia paired with Lydi Boyd to beat Cannane and Daniella Gillespie 8-7 in the final rubber of the day.
This weekend will see Central Park host lawn in a final meeting of the top two sides before finals, with the Saints travelling to play Kalkee in the other match.
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
M
inor premier Horsham Golf is through to the grand final of the Wimmera bowls playing area division one weekend pennant after overcoming Horsham City in the first round of finals on Saturday.
The Golf side outpointed City in all three rinks to win by a cumulative total of 28 shots, with the first team of Ross Barnett, Stephen Harris, Geoffrey Bald and skip Ashley Batchelor dominant in their 33-18 rink win against Horsham City’s Douglas Mitchell, John Lehmann, Kevin Smith and skip Kevin Clyne.
Golf, which topped the ladder with an 11-3 win-loss record this season, advances directly to the grand final, while City will have a second chance in this weekend’s preliminary final against Nhill, which defeated Dimboola 80-56 in another comprehensive result.
Nhill survived a tight first rink, with Nicholas Robins, Roger Brown, Greg Ryan and skip Darren Gebert edging out Dimboola’s Judith Albrecht, Rob Pyers, Joshua Cook and skip Daniel Danisch 20-18.
The final rink also came down to the wire, with Nhill winning by a single shot, 25-24, thanks to the efforts of
Ray Olney, Barry Cramer, Ivan Reichelt and skip Allan King.
But the middle rink was a lopsided affair, with Nhill’s team of Brad Blackwood, Matthew Morrison, Ryder Byrnes and Kevin Jones putting Dimboola to the sword, 35-14.
Midweek pennant
Midweek pennant finals also kicked off on Tuesday last week, with Horsham City upsetting minor premier Dimboola in division one to advance to the grand final.
City captured the opening rink 2719 thanks to Marie Lehmann, Derek Ballinger, William Hogan and skip Duncan Bottoms, and took control of the match in a thrilling second rink, winning 21-20 on the back of Kevin Gepp, Hux Mitchell, Trevor Hamilton and skip Graham McDonald.
Dimboola responded with a win in the final rink, with Mary Argall, Greg Cook, Geoff Gazelle and Alan Krahe bringing it home 24-19, but it was too little, too late.
The minor premiers had another chance to advance to the grand final last night in a preliminary final against Nhill, which beat Sunnyside on shots despite losing two of the three rinks last week.
The Nhill team of Helen McLean, Mary Waugh, Shaun McDonald and
skip Ivan Reichelt’s 26-15 win in the first rink provided enough of a buffer, with the side maintaining a lead on shots despite 22-20 and 24-20 losses in the remaining two rinks.
Other playing areas
The Grampians, North Wimmera and North Central playing areas also got their finals campaigns underway
in the past week. In the Grampians division one weekend pennant, minor premier Chalambar Golf defeated Stawell Golf 91 shots to 55, winning all three rinks to advance directly to the grand final.
Stawell Golf will now play Ararat VRI in a preliminary final this weekend after it defeated Aradale 95-
50 in another comprehensive result.
The Grampians midweek pennant saw Stawell defeat Chalambar Golf 74-60, winning two of the three rinks to book its place in the grand final.
Chalambar Golf will now play Stawell Golf Blue, which beat Stawell Golf Gold 69-48 in the other semifinal to advance.
In the North Wimmera playing area, undefeated division one weekend pennant minor premier Warracknabeal overcame Warracknabeal Golf White to win by 20 shots after a tight 22-21 opening rink, advancing to the grand final.
Warracknabeal Golf White will now contest a preliminary final against Beulah, which beat Rupanyup 69-60 in a tightly contested match that saw the second rink tied at 24-apiece.
The North Wimmera midweek pennant also saw Warracknabeal book a grand final spot with a 97-49 win against Rupanyup, while in the elimination semi-final Beulah beat Hopetoun 93-48.
North Central’s weekend pennant division one finals saw Donald Golf defeat Wycheproof 90-65 in the qualifying final, with Wedderburn downing St Arnaud Country Club in a twoshot thriller, 66-64, to advance to this weekend’s preliminary final.
INDIGENOUS: Indigenous
NATIONAL: All-Abilities
National Sports Star Rachael Werner.
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
Warracknabeal para-lawn
bowler Josh Barry will need to make room in an already packed trophy cabinet after being crowned the Wimmera Sports Star of the Year at a gala dinner in Horsham on Friday.
Barry etched his name further into the region’s sporting lore by claiming the top prize at the Wimmera Sports Star of the Year Awards, three decades after he was first nominated.
Fittingly, his long-awaited win came as the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly celebrated the 40th anniversary of the awards by inviting past winners to attend the dinner at Horsham Town Hall.
The 44-year-old has represented Australia internationally and was named Bowls Australia’s Bowler With a Disability of the Year in 2019, but said winning the Wimmera Sports Star of the Year was among his highest honours.
“I feel shocked. I’m speechless,” he said.
“It’s an honour to be recognised from the Wimmera sports assembly and the community.
“I believe it’s 30 years since I was first nominated for this award. It was 1995-96 after winning the gold medal in the Ivor Burge state basketball side for athletes with an intellectual disability.”
Barry was awarded for a year that saw him claim gold and bronze medals representing Victoria at the Australian Para Nationals championships in Tas-
mania, in addition to a silver medal in the multi-disability open pairs section at the 2025 Australian Open and representing Victoria in an interstate Para Bowls Test Series.
Barry hopes the award is a harbinger of further success as he waits to find out whether he will represent Australia at this year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
After taking up lawn bowls at the age of 12, Barry said he had quickly grown to love the sport.
“I started on my grandmother and grandfather’s back porch playing carpet bowls,” he said.
“They had a little set of carpet bowls, and when they needed a new set they gave me their old set.
“I lived across the road from the
bowling club and I used to sit on the fence and watch them after junior cricket.”
Calling bowls ‘the greatest sport going around’, Barry said he harboured hopes of one day representing Australia at the Paralympics.
“Hopefully it’s in 2032 in the Paralympics and Olympics as well up in Brisbane,” he said.
from 6am to 9am
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
Ahostof Wimmera-based sport-
ing clubs, volunteers, administrators and athletes shared the spotlight with Sports Star of the Year
winner Josh Barry on Friday night.
Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly, WRSA, executive officer Tony Caccaviello said awards organisers used the event to celebrate many facets of local sporting success, handing out 17 other awards in addition to presenting life memberships to Jeff Pekin, Greg Schultz and David Berry.
But Mr Caccaviello said the night was also about reflecting on the awards’ history, celebrating their 40year anniversary by inviting several past Sports Star of the Year winners and nominees.
“It was exactly what we were hoping for in terms of being able to recognise and celebrate all the amazing achievements in sport across 2025,” he said.
“But then we also really enjoyed adding the extra layer of welcoming back a lot of previous Sports Star of the Year winners from the past 40 years and significant contributors to the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly – both onfield and off-field stalwarts.
“We put together a little book of our history and it was great to have some of the winners from the past look through the history book.
ALL-ABILITIES:
LIFE
MEMBERS: Jeff Pekin, David Berry and Greg Schultz were awarded Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly life memberships at Friday’s celebrations. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER
“There were a heap of conversations on the night – people remembering who they were nominated with and talking about being unsure if they would win or not at the time. That was another nice element. It was lovely to hear those stories.”
In addition to Barry’s victory in the Sports Star of the Year category, other award winners included: Valued Volunteer of the Year, Stacey Drage, Run the Beal and Wimmera Roller Derby; Grassroots Award, Wayne Schultz, football coaching; Female Youth Sports Star of the Year, Georgia Foster, athletics; Male Youth Sports Star of the Year, Remi Bailey, gymnastics; Ian Niblett Scholarship Award, Jac Ivess, powerlifting; Indigenous Sports Star of the Year, Mason Kennedy, running; Local All-Abilities Sports Star of the Year,
Robbie Turmine, multiple sports; National All-Ablilities Sports Star of the Year, Rachael Werner, multiple sports; Veteran of the Year, Ray Funcke, lawn bowls; Women in Sport Award, Lilly Weir, CrossFit; School of the Year, St Brigid’s College; Team of the Year, Grampians Giants Football Netball Club; Unsung Hero Award, Erin Muller, Pimpinio Football Netball Club; Administrator of the Year, Casey Plazzer, Horsham Little Athletics; Coach of the Year, Ravi Araujo, Horsham CrossFit; Spirit of Community Award, Robbie Miller, Laharum Football Netball Club; and Club of the Year, MinyipMurtoa Football Netball Club.
Mr Caccaviello said it had been ‘a truly superb’ event and encouraged the Wimmera sporting community to start considering nominations for 2026.
“There were a lot of worthy winners and worthy finalists as well. It’s great to highlight the amazing things that happen on and off the field,” he said.
“We know sport plays such an amazing part in the community.
“Nominations are open for next year already – they’re open all year round, basically.
“So if anyone knows of someone or a club who is doing great work in the Wimmera, applications are open on our website now.”
BY DAVID BERRY
The bottle green and white uniform that dominated Volleyball Horsham men’s premierships in the 1970s came to the fore again, when CRB took out the 50th anniversary President’s Invitation Lightning Spike Challenge.
Well led by the experienced Jack Hannan, CRB defeated Illusions 35-28 in a final where getting off to a start was the key to success, in an event that kick-started the A Grade season.
CRB qualified for the final defeating Nathan Berry’s Kurri Blue 36-32, while Laelah Robertson’s
Illusions blew Tim Carter’s Shados Inala away in their semi final, 4435, with a stunning opening five minutes which saw the lead balloon out to 20-2 on the back of some great serving from Haidyn Young.
In the final, CRB jumped out to an early lead, with Noah Werry and Alex Baker in good touch.
A four point half time lead was maintained throughout the final, and while Illusions tried everything to bridge the gap, whenever they threatened CRB came up with the answers.
Captain Jack Hannan was full of praise for his new-look team. “Big shout out to new players
Malakai Van Buuren, Ella Van Duren and Corentin ‘Coco’ Fournier
who all stepped into the A Grade competition for the first time and fitted in really well,” he said.
Hannan said the four competing teams unveiled the new retro tops from previous decades as they took a trip down memory lane.
“It was a pleasure to honor the premier players from yesteryear and certainly added to what was a great way to open the season,” he said.
“All the players are looking forward to the season ahead, knowing we are celebrating 50 years of volleyball in Horsham.”
Unfortunately for the women,
who were supposed to open their season on Wednesday last week, a power outage that occurred about 6pm curtailed their lightning spike competition.
They will get their opportunity later in the season at a date to be determined.
Volleyball Horsham’s summer season kicks off tonight for A Grade and Women’s A and B competitions. Monday night competitions start next week, February 23.
There is still room for individuals to play, so if there are any players interested in participating, they can contact Volleyball Horsham via info@volleyballhorsham.com.au.
The Talent League’s Greater Western Victoria Rebels have announced their under-16 and under-18 girls’ football squads for 2026, with Wimmera players in the mix.
Warracknabeal’s Rubiee-Jane Crisp was named among a 22-girl squad for the Rebels’ under-16 team, with Horsham Demons’ Chloe Stockdale named as one of four training and developmental players.
A 34-player under-18 squad saw Laharum juniors Scarlett Abbott and Violet McGennisken named alongside Lara Purchase, who has ties to both Nhill and Laharum.
The Rebels announced their under-18 boys squad in December, with Rupanyup’s Riley Downer, Horsham’s Archie Elliott and Oakley Farr, and Horsham Saint Levi Munyard making the team.
The Rebels are yet to announce their under-16 boys line-up.
Horsham Golf Croquet Club’s Saturday competition saw Ian Rees winning at the weekend, ahead of runners-up Glenn Price and Rob Bahr.
In division two it was Greg Phillips taking the win from runner-up Rosemary Rees, while division three saw Kerrie Brody topping the competition ahead of runner-up Lorna Mills.
On Thursday last week it was Gary Devlin taking out the division one competition ahead of Shirley Price, while the division two winner was Greg Phillips from runner-up Rosemary Rees.
Robyn Devlin was the best performer in division three, with Jenny Walker finishing second.
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BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
T
he penultimate round of Horsham Cricket Association A Grade two-day matches concluded on Saturday, with NoradjuhaToolondo’s outright win against St Mary’s serving as a prelude to Sunday’s one-day grand final success.
The Bullants resumed in a strong position after bowling the Saints out for 67 in the first innings and racing to 5-185 before declaring.
The Saints resumed on Saturday intent on making the Bullants bat again, and 45 runs from Colby Schmidt, along with a lower-order 25 from
Brodie Dennes, helped St Mary’s to a total of 145.
But a late collapse, with three of the final five batsmen dismissed for ducks, left the Bullants a modest target of only 27 runs for an outright victory.
Jason Harris was out for nine, but Jack Wyeth, 20 not out, guided the home side to the winning runs.
The win confirmed a finals berth for Noradjuha-Toolondo, and Laharum also locked up its place with a firstinnings win against Donald-Jeffcott.
Set a target of 239 for victory, Laharum batted patiently, making the most of the two-day format.
While Demon openers Monty
Noradjuha-Toolondo is the new Horsham Cricket Association A Grade one-day premier following a highscoring grand final against West Wimmera at Horsham City Oval on Sunday.
The Bullants and Warriors were clear standouts in the one-day format throughout the 2025-26 season, with West Wimmera going a perfect 9-0 while Noradjuha-Toolondo was 7-2.
With West Wimmera claiming the past two A Grade one-day grand finals, Bullant skipper Tony Caccaviello said his team knew it faced a big challenge.
“The games against West Wimmera are always super tough. I reckon we’ve had some pretty epic contests going all the way back to COVID times,” he said.
“I thought it was a really good, tight game, and probably a good display of the quality of cricket in Horsham.”
Caccaviello won the toss and elected to bat, urging his team to adopt a positive, attacking mindset at the crease.
Matt Combe and Jason Harris got the Bullants off to a flying start with an opening partnership of 63 before Combe departed for 21.
Harris continued to slash boundaries on his way to a season-high 87 runs, setting his side up brilliantly.
“It was a perfect platform and Jase went on to make that big innings that we’ve been looking for,” Caccaviello said.
“He struck the ball really well and
batted as we know he can bat. We just tried to support and bat around him and build partnerships while always looking to be positive.”
The Bullants powered past the 200run barrier off the back of Harris’ innings, finishing 8-206 with further contributions of 25 from Justtin Combe and 20 from Troy Dumesny.
The dangerous West Wimmera bowling attack was kept quiet for most of the afternoon, with no Warrior bowler taking more than two wickets.
Caccaviello said the large total gave his side confidence as it prepared to field.
“We were very happy with a score over 200 in a 40-over game,” he said.
“At halfway, if you’d told me that was the position we were going to be in, I would’ve taken it every time.
“We knew if we could string together two or three really tight overs, then the run rate would build pretty quickly on them.
“It always helps having a bit of a score on the board because it almost acts as an extra player for you if you can piece together a few good overs in a row, particularly early.”
Not only did the Bullants suppress the run rate early, but they picked up the vital wickets of West Wimmera opening duo Brad and Nathan Alexander for 11 and seven respectively.
Justtin Combe did the damage, removing both brothers in the span of four overs to put his side on track for victory.
Wynne and Max Bunworth both made modest totals – each out for six – they absorbed enough of the early strike to set the stage for middle-order batsmen like Chaminda Gamage, 52, Jackson Hoffmann, 58, and Harrison Hoffmann, 62 not out, to dominate.
Laharum brought up the winning runs after 71 overs with three wickets left in hand, cementing a top-three finish.
But the fourth finals berth is set to go down to the wire after Swifts-Great Western’s first-innings loss to Colts, leaving the Lions on an even footing with Donald-Jeffcott.
Swifts-Great Western was bowled out for 111 in pursuit of Colts’ first-
innings total of 150, and the home side was still in the midst of its second innings at stumps on Saturday.
Josh Colbert was the hero for the Colts with 5-31.
West Wimmera put the finishing touches on a minor premiership with a big first-innings win against BrimKellalac-Sheep Hills at Brim.
With the Eagles all out for 85 on day one, the Warriors were easily able to surpass the total, with Brad Alexander, 27, and Josh Lees, 26, leading the team to 10-147.
Lubeck-Murtoa also claimed firstinnings points against Horsham Tigers, batting all day to reach 5-137 after the Tigers made 136.
Skipper Cam Newell led the effort for the Mudlarks with 56 runs.
The final round of two-day matches begins this Saturday, with SwiftsGreat Western and Donald-Jeffcott both at home as they vie for a fourthplace finish.
The Lions will host Horsham Tigers at Central Park, while the DJ Boys welcome Brim-Kellalac-Sheep Hills.
Other games feature Lubeck-Murtoa against St Mary’s at Murtoa, the Bullants against West Wimmera at Horsham City Oval in a rematch of Sunday’s one-day grand final, and Colts against Laharum at Dudley Cornell Park.
“Justtin is a spinner and we opened with him. He’s always very hard to get away – the one-day game suits his style of bowling,” Caccaviello said.
“He set us up with wickets and economy, and then he came back at the back end of the innings and took another two to ice the game a bit.
“He’s so consistent and bowls a length and a speed that’s really hard to get away.
“You can bank on him to deliver ball after ball.”
The Bullants’ total proved too much for the Warriors, who were bowled out for 172 in the final over despite good knocks of 65 from Mitch Dahl-
enburg and 32 to Brodie Cramer. Justtin Combe finished with teambest bowling figures of 4-26 for the Bullants, while Jordan McDonald took 3-26. Harris was named man of the match for his run-a-ball 87.
The association also hosted its B Grade grand final at the weekend, with Horsham Saints prevailing over Swifts-Great Western by four wickets.
The Lions batted after winning the toss but faltered after a strong opening partnership between Craig Marrow,
CAUGHT: NoradjuhaToolondo’s Phoenix Hopper takes a diving catch to dismiss dangerous West Wimmera batsman Nathan Alexander for seven. Picture:
22, and Matt Delzott, 28, with none of their team-mates surpassing 14 runs as the team was all out for 144.
The Saints’ run chase appeared in trouble when the team lost opener Mark Crafter for a duck in the first over, but first-drop batsman Archie Sostheim righted the ship with an unbeaten 61 to claim man-of-the-match honours.
Sostheim received support from Muhammad Hassaan Masood, 21 not out, as the pair guided the Saints to the winning runs with more than three overs to spare, finishing 6-146. Masood hit a six to bring up the win. – Colin MacGillivray
