Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative and Barengi Gadjin Land Council are this week hosting community events to celebrate NAIDOC Week’s 50th anniversary with the theme of ‘50 Years of Deadly’. Aboriginal mob and allies are invited to Horsham Regional Art Gallery for Bunjil’s View 3 ‘Unfinished Business’ premiere at 5.30pm today, and at Stawell Hub for Goolum Stawell Family Day and closing ceremony from 10am on Friday. Pictured at the opening ceremony at Horsham’s Dalki Guli Hub on Monday are, from left, Savannah Marks, Aurora Secombe, Layla Edmonds and Narla Kennedy. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
Efforts yielding results
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
One of Victoria Police’s top regional officers says local police are working to address a crime spike in Northern Grampians Shire.
The latest data from Victoria’s Crime Statistics Agency, CSA, shows that in the 12 months to March 2026, the total number of criminal incidents across Northern Grampians Shire jumped by 36.7 per cent, from 931 in the same period last year to 1273 this year.
Northern Grampians recorded the highest rate of criminal incidents of any regional Victorian local-government area, with 10,712.0 per 100,000 population – trailing only four Melbourne-based LGAs.
Northern Grampians was also one of the top LGAs for total offences, with 14,675.4 per 100,000 population – the second-highest rate in regional Victoria behind only Greater Shepparton.
A single criminal incident can contain multiple offences, accounting for the difference between the categories.
Other results across the Wimmera and southern Mallee were mixed, with Horsham recording a 2.2 per cent rise in the rate of criminal incidents per 100,000 and a 13.1 per cent jump in its offences rate.
Ararat saw a fall in criminal-incident and offences rates, with the former falling by 13.2 per cent and the latter dropping by 10.7 per cent.
West Wimmera’s total number of criminal incidents rose slightly, from 146 to 165, but overall offences fell from 216 to 199.
In Hindmarsh the number of offences rose slightly but criminal incidents stayed relatively stable, while in Yarriambiack both criminal-incident and offences rates dropped by more than 10 per cent.
Across Victoria the total number of criminal incidents was down 1.0 per
cent, with offences dropping by 0.2 per cent.
Victoria Police western region division four Acting Superintendent Gary Best acknowledged the rising Northern Grampians crime rate, but said police efforts to address the issue were already yielding results.
“There was an increase in volume crime that occurred in the St Arnaud area in late 2025 to early 2026; this has skewed the Northern Grampians LGA data,” he said.
“This rise in crime was effectively impacted by Operation ALMA, which targeted recidivist volume offenders and resulted in reductions in crime for the past three months.”
Acting Superintendent Best said data concerning offences per 100,000 population could be volatile from year to year in regional areas because of lower population bases compared to metropolitan areas.
“They can be skewed in regional
LGAs because of our comparably low populations to suburban locations, hence the higher numbers,” he said.
“The reality is that the total offences recorded for both the Northern Grampians LGA and Horsham LGA remain very low in comparison to areas of higher-density populations.”
With alleged criminal activity at skate parks in Stawell and St Arnaud generating public calls for Northern Grampians Shire Council to install closed-circuit television, CCTV, cameras at both locations last month, Acting Superintendent Best said police would support the move.
“Victoria Police support the use of CCTV as one of a range of measures that can help provide reassurance to the community and enhance perceptions of safety,” he said.
“While CCTV is not necessarily a deterrent to crime, it can provide valuable investigative opportunities by assisting police to identify offenders,
establish circumstances surrounding incidents, and gather evidence.
“The installation or expansion of CCTV systems is generally a matter for local councils, businesses, government agencies, or property owners, rather than being initiated or requested by police.
“However, police are supportive of CCTV where it may assist community safety outcomes and criminal investigations.”
Acting Superintendent Best also addressed recent reporting linking areas where police station opening hours were reduced to rising crime rates. Horsham and Stawell police stations are now open to the public from 10am to 6pm each day after both previously being 24-hour stations.
“There is no data to suggest that a reduction in counter-enquiry hours has had any impact on crime,” Acting Superintendent Best said.
Continued page 3
Mixed reactions to new guidelines
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
F
arming advocacy groups have offered mixed reactions to new Victorian guidelines governing the way renewable-energy developers engage with landholders and access the state’s transmission network.
State Government transmission-infrastructure planning body VicGrid last month released new community engagement and social value guidelines outlining 43 requirements for renewable-energy and large-scale battery developers, which will come into effect in July next year.
The guidelines define how developers can engage with local communities and individual landholders, as well as how they can access Victoria’s transmission network.
The guidelines give priority to projects within government-defined renewable energy zones, REZs.
VicGrid chief executive Alistair Parker acknowledged some developers had fallen short of community expectations for consultation and transparency.
“The guidelines will allow us, both inside and outside REZs, to really make sure all developers meet the standards of the best developers, make sure we can co-ordinate how these
Surprise honour
Horsham Country Music has awarded Max Johns with a life membership, recognising his contribution to its festival during the group’s 25-year history.
One of the group’s founding members, Mr Johns was inspired by Mildura’s country music festival, which he had regularly attended with his late wife, Elizabeth.
The pair attended an advertised meeting to form a Horsham group to host similar events.
“I’m proud to say that I was a part of the committee that introduced country music to Horsham,” Mr Johns said.
“Elizabeth and I used to go up to Mildura to the country music festival and we just thought it was so good and that it would be great if we could have it in Horsham.”
Confined by a small budget, early gigs were staged at Horsham hotels with local entertainers to raise money for future events.
The Horsham Country Music Fes-
projects go ahead, and make sure we allocate access to the grid and its capacity in the most efficient way,” he said.
“We’ve heard a lot of feedback over the past four or five years from people about some of the areas where developers haven’t lived up to community expectations.
“There’s some really good developers out there, but this is about making sure that everybody’s coming up to that standard.”
Mr Parker said under the new guidelines, developers would be unable to force landowners to sign non-disclosure agreements.
“What we’re seeing in some places is developers signing up landholders but doing that under non-disclosure agreements and stopping the landholder or the farmer from talking to their neighbours,” he said.
“One of the requirements is that you just can’t have non-disclosure agreements of that type. We want to see a transparent, open process that engages meaningfully with the community.”
Mr Parker said the guidelines also mandated developers to provide as much community benefit as possible.
“We’ve set out our expectations that there should be meaningful – and people use the term ‘legacy’ – benefits,” he said.
“When we grant access, the competition that we will be running is assessing how much the community benefits,” he said.
“We’re really encouraging the market to compete on the basis of what they can do for the community, not just individual landholders.”
Mr Parker said the guidelines would not enable communities to band together to stop developments outright, but would give them scope to ensure they were as beneficial as possible.
He said no landowner could be compelled to host an energy project against their will.
“It will certainly give communities much greater power to examine developments and to understand the impacts, and to make sure the balance of change and benefits is actually fair,” he said.
“It’s a really key point. If you do not want a renewable project on your land, there’s no obligation to have it.”
Victorian Farmers Federation president Ryan Milgate welcomed some of the changes set out in the guidelines, but said he was concerned at a lack of avenues to enforce them.
“We obviously welcome any move that strengthens the position of farmers dealing with renewable-energy developers at their gate and this is a
small step in the right direction,” he said.
“However, the guidelines are long on expectations and short on obligations.
“At this stage there is no clear enforcement mechanism, no compliance framework and no meaningful consequences for developers who fail to meet these expectations.
“We’re told those teeth will be added at some point in the future, but that doesn’t fill us with confidence.”
Mr Milgate said little trust remained between many farming communities and developers.
“The horse has already bolted on many of these issues,” he said.
“Farmers and regional communities have spent years raising concerns about transparency, consultation and fairness. Releasing non-binding guidelines now will do little to rebuild confidence and it’s a long road back.”
Farmers for Climate Action chief executive Verity Morgan-Schmidt said she supported the guidelines in principle, but was also concerned about enforcement.
“On the guidelines alone, Victoria now leads the nation on best-practice approaches for developers to interact with the community,” she said.
“The Victorian government and renewable-energy industry need to re-
build trust in many regional communities.
“Broader benefits are so important for bringing the wider community on board and we are pleased to see the guidelines address this, as well as ways to improve what is often a current hodge-podge approach.
“The community needs to be included as co-designers of benefits, rather than accepting whatever the developers decide to offer.
“These remain unbinding expectations, and the devil remains in the detail as to how developers follow the guidelines.”
Mr Parker said while the guidelines would not become official until the middle of next year, VicGrid would encourage developers to begin meeting them immediately.
“We have a number of projects that are live at the minute and are going through the existing connection process,” he said.
“We’re going to impose an obligation on those proponents to meet the guidelines in their connection agreements.”
People can find more information on VicGrid’s community engagement and social value guidelines online at www.vicgrid.com.au/community/ community-engagement-and-socialvalue-guidelines.
Crime statistics
From page 1
“The reduction in counter service sees police out on patrol more frequently providing a visible police service to the community where it is needed,”
Acting Superintendent Best said.
He said police would use the latest data to address the greatest areas of concern across the region – particularly recidivist crime.
“The data shows across the board we have seen an increase of criminal damage and assaults that are not family-violence related,” he said.
“We will be adopting an intelligence-led approach that ensures resources are directed where they will have the greatest impact.
LIFE MEMBER: Horsham Country Music presented Max Johns with a life membership last week, recognising his 25 years with the group.
tival eventually became a four-day event, featuring a host of musicians including Don Costa, Johanna Hemara, Sandie Dodd and Laura Downing.
“It was successful,” Mr Johns said.
“The committee would cater and do all the set-up and pack-up. It was a lot of work, but I always enjoyed it – I didn’t expect this recognition.”
While the group no longer hosts a festival, Mr Johns and its members
Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS
enjoy country music shows at Horsham’s RSL.
“It just got too much, we all got older – I’m 89,” he said.
“But we have enjoyed continuing on at the RSL with the monthly shows.”
“Police are focused on preventing and targeting crime by actively managing the small number of repeat offenders responsible for crime in our community. We will be actively targeting offenders who pose the greatest risk of reoffending and causing harm.
“By identifying these offenders, police can disrupt offending behaviour and reduce victimisation.”
People can view the latest Victorian crime statistics online at www.crime statistics.vic.gov.au.
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
Ararat’s
Mess and Barracks and Horsham Sports and Community Club were announced winners in their respective 2026 Community Clubs Victoria Gala Awards categories on Saturday.
Among a record-breaking number of nominees and 400 attendees, the Ararat venue was awarded best community club refurbishment under $1-million – it was also a finalist in the regional best club bistro/restaurant category – while Horsham Sports and Community Club won the social impact award.
Ararat RSL developed Mess and Barracks in the town’s historic Courthouse Hotel, offering dining, drinks and accommodation with the purpose
Ararat, Horsham venues winners Avonbank
of being a welcoming haven for veterans and their community.
Horsham Sports and Community Club was awarded for its partnership with Horsham’s Christian Emergency Food Centre, recognising its series of supports for individuals and families experiencing hardship.
Key projects included the annual reverse advent calendar project – last year donating 501 food hampers – and the ongoing preparation and donation of ready-to-heat meals.
The award also recognised the club’s $50,000 major community project last year, which was determined by a vote of more than 600 club members and funded the purchase of a new food transport van for the Christian Emergency Food Centre.
Club marketing and community en-
gagement manager Laura Russell said she was ‘shocked’ to hear the club’s name announced at the gala awards.
“There were two candidates for that award – us and Doxa Community Club,” she said.
“They’re massive, they have two clubs in the city, and they support youth across Victoria, so to be nominated against them and then win, we were quite shocked.
“Community impact is at the heart of everything we do. We are incredibly proud of our partnership with the Christian Emergency Food Centre and the positive outcomes these programs continue to deliver.
“This award reinforces the importance of clubs playing an active role in supporting the communities they serve.”
Club manager Daniel Hounsell said the recognition was made even more special by the quality of the finalists.
“To be recognised alongside Doxa is a tremendous honour, and we are incredibly proud of our club, Horsham and the Wimmera,” he said.
“This award belongs to everyone who has contributed to making a positive difference in our community.”
The award follows a milestone year for the club, which has surpassed $4-million in community sponsorships and support distributed throughout the region since its inception.
Applications open
Ms Russell said another $50,000 was available to a major community project this year.
“The board announced another
King humbled: it belongs to everyone
Dimboola and District Historical Society stalwart Evelyn King has received the prestigious Royal Historical Society of Victoria’s Award of Merit.
Instrumental in preventing the society from closing in 1995, for the past three decades Mrs King has proactively preserved and advocated for the area’s history.
Royal Historical Society’s Craige Proctor presented the award at the Dimboola society’s meeting last week, with an audience of surrounding towns’ historical society representatives and friends.
Mrs King said her passion for history was in her DNA.
“You don’t do this for any recognition, you do it because you love it,” she said.
“I think everybody in here – and there are some very auspicious historians in this room – we all do it for the one reason, it is because we like what we’re doing.
“I think it’s probably our DNA from a very young age, I think it was in mine.”
Mr Proctor read Mrs King’s citation that accompanied her nomination, adding it was ‘utterly impossible’ to do justice to anyone who had contributed 30 years in 450 words.
“Evelyn has played the major role in the presentation of historical displays, throughout the courthouse, and at other sites around the town, including Dimboola Print Museum, Westerfield’s garage, and the Victoria Hotel,” he said.
“As a result of Evelyn’s diligence,
there is a professional and engaging vibe at the society’s museum, and her group clearly relishes Evelyn’s ability to delegate tasks to others capably.
“She has been consistently involved in projects promoting the significance and role of history within our community, welcoming various community groups to the courthouse and speaking at other groups’ meetings.
“Evelyn consistently engages with and takes on an advocacy role with Hindmarsh Shire Council, chiefly in regard to the preservation of local heritage sites.
“Evelyn not only has the enthusiasm and drive to keep history alive, she has a passion for items on display, and the organisation and presentation of these displays in the courthouse complex are testament to this.”
Mrs King negotiated the purchase of two rare film projectors from Dimboola’s Star Theatre for use in the museum, lobbied strenuously to obtain cases for displays, and has represented the society in various community projects, such as the Nine Creeks Wetland walking and cycling track project, the town’s 150year celebration committee, and the railway station refurbishment group.
She regularly represents the society at regional history meetings and conferences, and has long been supportive of the Western Victorian Association of Historical Societies in contributing advice and offering to chair meetings or take minutes.
“Evelyn’s contagious enthusiasm
$50,000 sponsorship for a major community project, so we’re looking for applications for any projects or community initiatives across the region,” she said.
“This is the fifth year of this specific funding program – previous recipients include Nhill Lake table shelters, Christian Emergency Food Centre van, and a smart water project at Horsham Cemetery.
“We know $50,000 would make a significant difference to one community project.”
Applications are now open and will close at 5pm on Friday, August 7. Winners are voted by club members after being shortlisted by its board. For more information and to apply, people can visit HSCC hscc.au/50k.
Wimmera and Southern Mallee people are invited to shape a significant, long-term WIM Resource community benefits fund and support program as its Avonbank Mine progresses from development to operations.
WIM is establishing the Avonbank Community and Co-existence Reference Group, CCRG, an independently chaired advisory group that will help inform the community support program and future community investment priorities.
The CCRG will provide a structured forum for community and stakeholder input into the community support program and future community benefit priorities associated with the Avonbank project. It will be an advisory group and will not replace regulatory processes or WIM’s wider stakeholder engagement activities.
WIM has invited representatives from a range of stakeholder groups directly and is now inviting community members to submit an expression of interest to join the CCRG.
Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS
RECOGNITION: Dimboola and District Historical Society stalwart Evelyn King was presented the Royal Historical Society of Victoria’s Award of Merit for her 30-year contribution to preserving the region’s history.
for local history is reflected in the support the society receives from the local community,” Mr Proctor said.
In accepting her award, Mrs King shared her accolades with her fellow society members.
“This doesn’t happen without a whole group, and we’ve got a great group here – we have always been very cohesive and gotten along really, really well,” she said.
“We’ve had some wonderful past
members who are no longer with us, and it was a real joy to work with them.
“This belongs to the society itself and we’ll continue to look after Dimboola’s history as much as we can and are allowed to do.
“It’s just lovely to be recognised, but it belongs to everyone. And this goes for every other historical society – there’s wonderful work being done.” – Bronwyn Hastings
Membership is expected to include community members, landholders, Traditional Owners, representatives from Horsham Rural City Council, Yarriambiack Shire Council, business, education, community organisations, environmental and natural resource management groups, and WIM representatives.
Further information, including the expression of interest form, is available at www.wimresource.com.au; expressions of interest close at 5pm on Monday, August 3.
HRCC NEWS
Celebrating NAIDOC Week 2026
For 50 years, NAIDOC Week has brought people together to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, stories and achievements.
It is a time to honour those who came before us, celebrate who we are today, and look to the future with pride.
The 2026 theme, Fifty Years of Deadly, pays tribute to the Elders, advocates, artists and communities who have helped shape this movement and kept culture strong across generations.
It is a celebration of resilience, pride and community and of the people whose legacy continues to light the way forward.
In celebration of NAIDOC Week, several events will be held across the region, including:
• The Horsham Regional Art Gallery will hold an opening event for the annual NAIDOC Week exhibition at 5.30pm on Wednesday 8 July.
This exhibition will showcase artworks from our local community and will run until Sunday 9 August.
• BGLC will hold their Elders & Youth Luncheon at the Horsham Sports and Community Club at 11.30am on Thursday 9 July.
• A closing ceremony will be held at the Stawell Hub at 10am on Friday 10 July.
• BGLC will host a family cabaret evening, which will be held at the Horsham Greyhound Racing Pavilion at 5pm on Friday 10 July.
You can register your interest in these events on the Goolum Goolum website or by scanning the QR code.
Closes Sunday 12 July
LEADING HAND
Closes Tuesday 14 July
Closes Sunday 30 August
To apply for these jobs or to view casual and part-time positions, please visit the HRCC website or scan the QR code.
Need some fun activities to keep the kids entertained this school holidays? Check out these offerings around Horsham.
Horsham Regional Art Gallery
Create Your Own Sporting Superstar Thursday 9 July, 10-11.30am
Inspired by our current exhibition, Framed in Footy: AFL Photography by Michael Willson, build and bend and to make a team of dynamic figures.
Scan the QR code to book your child's spot in HRAG's workshops.
Horsham Youth
Vision Boards with Larissa & Ari Thursday 9 July, 1-3.30pm at The Station
Create your own collage to inspire your future dreams and goals.
Ten Pin Bowling with Ari Friday 10 July, 10-12pm at Horsham Lanes and Games.
Remember to BYO water bottle, socks and money for lunch.
Scan the QR code to book your child's spot in Horsham Youth's events.
What's On - School Holidays Week 2 Community Recovery Winter Program
The Grass Flats Fire Recovery Hub Winter Program is focused on bringing people together and staying connected over the colder months.
We encourage everyone in these communities to stay connected and reach out if you need anything. Drop in and see Rhonda or Jose at the NC2 Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Tuesday 21 July, 10am - Social Media Workshop (Part 1) Sunday 26 July, 10am - Winter Pilates at Natinuk
Funding boost for community events across the municipality
Horsham Rural City Council has endorsed more than $86,000 in funding to support a vibrant calendar of community events across the municipality in 2026–27.
A total of 26 community-led events will share in $86,050 through Council’s Community Events Grants Program, helping local organisations deliver festivals, cultural celebrations, sporting events and community gatherings.
The grants form part of Council’s broader $235,000 Community Grants Program, which supports not-for-profit groups to strengthen community connection, wellbeing and participation.
A full list of grant recipients is available on Council’s website.
Next Council Meeting: Monday, July 27, 2026 - 5.30pm Horsham Rural City Council: 18 Roberts Avenue Horsham | Postal address: PO Box 511
Know what's happening at HRCC. Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter.
SAVINGS, FAMILY FUN: Plant Passion Pets and Aquatics is celebrating three years of trading at Horsham Plaza with an in-store event that will include Fair Dinkum Fauna Wildlife Display, a raffle and treasure hunt, and special prices throughout the store. Owner Tegan Warren, who started selling terrariums and indoor plants at markets 11 years ago, expanded her business to include reptiles and other animals when she opened at the plaza. “We’ve now got turtles, frogs, stick insects, jumping spiders, giant millipedes, scorpions, bearded dragons, blue tongue lizards, and we do have children’s pythons as well,” she said. “We do all the stocking for them. We do their bedding, enclosures, heat lamps and their food – live crickets.” The event is from 10am to noon on Saturday. The plaza is also hosting $4 craft workshops between 11am and 3pm until Friday.
Water storages filling
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
The Wimmera-Glenelg system’s water storages have shown an overall average increase in volume during the past 12 months, from being 37.52 per cent to 38.57 per cent full, making summer restrictions ‘unlikely’.
June’s above-average rainfall generated 24,469 megalitres of inflow to storages and represented the highest inflow month of the 2025-26 water year.
GWMWater water resources manager Scott Smith said the region was in a reasonable position.
“Our catchments, right now, are effectively primed, which means the soil profile is already wet after two months of average rainfall,” he said.
“System storages have increased over the previous month, leading into the main inflow period for our system, which is between July and October.
“Historically this period has contributed 75 per cent of the yearly inflow to system storage.”
In the past 12 months, volume at Lake Bellfield has increased by five percent and is sitting at 70 per cent full.
Lake Fyans has seen a 10 per cent increase, now 80 per cent full; Moora Moora Reservoir is up 32 per cent to 54 per cent full; Taylors Lake has increased 28 per cent to be 68 per cent full; Lake Wartook has seen a 21 per cent increase, now 48 per cent full; and Mt Cole Reservoir has increased 28 per cent to be 99 per cent full.
Mr Smith said the improvements were sufficient to post an opening allocation of 12 per cent to Wimmera-Mallee Pipeline Product entitlements. Eleven gigalitres was also allocated to the early system reserve.
Volumes have decreased at four storages – Lake Lonsdale has lost one per cent and is now sitting at 19 per cent full; Rocklands Reservoir is down three per cent to be 30 per cent full; Lake Toolondo is 22 per cent full, losing 10 per cent; and Green Lake has lost 19 per cent to be 28 per cent full.
No allocation was possible to Glenelg River compensation flow, recreation, wet-
land and Commonwealth environmental entitlements.
“Storages would be expected to increase through the winter-spring period, however the magnitude of increase will depend on climatic conditions such as rainfall and evaporation,” Mr Smith said.
“Localised events can also result in some storages experiencing greater increases.
“Water restrictions remain unlikely for GWMWater supplied towns over the next six months, although water resources will continue to be monitored closely.”
Permanent water-saving rules apply across the region.
These include: home and commercial gardens can only be watered between 6pm and 10am when using watering systems; gardens can be watered any time using a hand held hose with a trigger nozzle, a watering can or bucket; and water cannot be used to clean hard surfaces such as concrete, paths and driveways.
People can visit GWMWater’s website gwmwater.org.au for more information.
EAST GRAMPIANS HEALTH SERVICE | WILLAURA
Willaura Health Care is situated in the small rural town of Willaura and has both acute and aged care facilities.
There are eight acute beds and 12 aged care beds.
We offer:
• 10 single aged care bedrooms with private ensuites
• 2 single aged care bedrooms with shared bathrooms.
• Individualised care planning
• A variety of meals provided by our main onsite kitchen.
• A range of leisure and lifestyle activities offered regularly
• Doctors visit the facility weekly
Renewable energy boon in Elmhurst
Elmhurst near Ararat is now home to Australia’s largest operating synchronous condenser.
The Ararat Synchronous Condenser will enable an additional 600 megawatts of renewable energy generation to connect to western Victoria’s power grid.
The large spinning machine supports system stability and allows the electricity network to host more energy by maintaining a balance between power generation and consumption, quickly responding to sudden changes in power demand to stabilise the grid.
Australian Energy Operations operates the condenser, with Victorian renewable company Beon Energy Solutions carrying out construction work. Energy and Resources Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said it was one of 12 State Government projects funded through a $480-million investment aimed at strengthening the state’s power grid so more renewable energy could flow to Victorian homes and businesses.
She said the projects combined would unlock 2.3 gigawatts of renewable energy – enough to power 16 per cent of Victoria’s annual electricity needs – while delivering economic benefits and new opportunities for regional communities.
“Only Labor will invest in the technology Victoria needs to lower bills and keep the lights on,” she said.
Australian Energy Operations chief executive Glen Thomson labelled the project forward-thinking.
“The Victorian government should be congratulated for its vision and foresight to invest in this type of technology to support system strength in the grid and underpin further renewable generation investment in this part of western Victoria,” he said.
• Dietitian, speech pathologist, physiotherapist, exercise physiologist, podiatrist, occupational therapist and social worker also provide visiting services to the acute patients and aged care consumers.
• Community appointments for these service are available by contacting EGHS Community Health Centre on 5352 9327
For further information call Liz Atkinson, Manager Willaura Health Care, 5354 1600.
SCALES,
Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
Bushfire review examines targets
BY LAUREN HENRY
AVictorian
Auditor-General’s
Office review found the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action kept bushfire risk below its target but did not deliver all strategic fuel breaks in and near Grampians National Park ahead of the 2024 fires.
The review looked at if DEECA and the Country Fire Authority, CFA, completed their actions in response to the office’s 2020 report, and if they adequately reduced bushfire risk near the Grampians National Park leading up to the 2024 bushfires.
There were two major bushfire events in the Grampians region in 2024 – two separate fires in February, with a combined total area of 6386 hectares, destroying 47 properties at Pomonal and Dadswells Bridge; and the second in December 2024, which spread to more than 76,000 hectares, destroying four properties and burning farmland and pasture, with more than 700 livestock lost.
The office’s 2020 audit Reducing Bushfire Risks investigated whether the then Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, now DEECA, and the CFA were effectively working together to reduce Victoria’s bushfire risk.
Of the office’s recommendations about how DEECA and CFA measured, planned and delivered actions to reduce bushfire fuel, DEECA completed 21 of its 29 actions, partially completed seven and did not complete one. CFA completed 13 of its 16 actions and partially completed three.
The office concluded that both agen-
cies had made improvements since the 2020 audit, including their risk-modelling tools, datasets and statewide bushfire-management planning, and helped keep statewide bushfire risk below a 70 per cent target.
But the office found that DEECA and CFA still needed to improve how they measured the effectiveness of different fuel-reduction methods, managed bushfire risk on private land and assessed fuel hazards.
The review found that neither agency fully knew how effectively their planning and actions protected people and property.
Before the 2024 Grampians bushfires, DEECA and CFA kept the Wimmera district’s risk level below the target through effective planning and reducing fuel loads.
But DEECA could not show how it prioritised strategic fuel breaks.
The review found that while it did
not limit firefighters’ access during the 2024 bushfires, it could affect fires at other locations in the future.
A key finding of the review was that DEECA kept bushfire risk below the target but did not deliver all strategic fuel breaks in and around Grampians National Park.
DEECA and CFA have risk-based frameworks for planning and prioritising fuel management but only DEECA, not CFA, could show how it applied its process in and around Grampians National Park before the 2024 bushfires.
The department modelled fuel-hazard levels, identified high bushfire-risk areas, and selected treatment sites according to regional bushfire-management strategies and treatability, access and available resources.
It used fire-simulation model Phoenix RapidFire to test the impact and prioritise each planned burn by their
potential to reduce the residual bushfire-risk level.
The review found that residual risk in the Wimmera district was well below target before the 2024 Grampians bushfires.
Despite not completing all planned fuel treatments, DEECA’s prioritisation kept the residual bushfire risk in the Wimmera district at about 40 per cent between 2020-21 and 2023-24, which was well below the 70 per cent target.
Staff in the Wimmera district nominated 16 fuel breaks for construction or renewal as part of the program, but of the five that DEECA selected, only two were from the nominations by Wimmera district staff.
DEECA could not show how it applied its prioritisation process across the nominations and whether all five selected had the highest potential benefit.
The department planned to have all five breaks completed by August, 2022, but it only constructed two, while another was already in place and in use.
The remaining two strategic fuel breaks – Ararat’s Main Divide Road and Smiths Road stage two – were never established.
The review found that although the two uncompleted strategic fuel breaks are outside the 2024 Grampians bushfires’ boundaries, more properties could be at risk in future bushfires if they are not established.
The review made a recommendation to DEECA about reassessing and establishing strategic fuel breaks with high operational value across the state, which was accepted in part.
Despite DEECA and CFA improving aspects of the way they plan and deliver fuel-management activities, the review found they have not consistently met risk-reduction targets in several districts, including the Wimmera, where they consistently fell well short of the 70 per cent target.
The review outlined that 48 per cent of fuel-reduction targets were met in the Wimmera in 2021-22, but then reduced to 40 per cent in 2022-23 and then 38 per cent in 2023-24.
The review found that although there is uncertainty around DEECA’s risk estimates because it does not know how accurate its fuel-accumulation curves are, it is well below the 70 per cent district target.
DEECA has not released residual bushfire risk data at a district level for 2024-25.
FOLLOW UP: Volunteers mop up the fire in Dadswells Bridge in February 2024. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
PLEASE JOIN US
PLEASE JOIN US
Wednesday, July 29 at 6.30pm
Wednesday July 29 at 6.30 pm
INSIDE Story will provide you with a rare insight into the police investigations undertaken to solve some of Victoria’s most notable crimes
INSIDE Story will provide you with a rare insight into the police investigations undertaken to solve some of Victoria’s most notable crimes.
Presentations by the lead Detectives will give you a chance to see and hear details not covered by the media and gain an understanding of the prosecuted. These step by step presentations almost make you feel like part of the investigating team when the final arrest is made.
Presentations by the lead Detectives will give you a chance to see and hear details not covered by the media and gain an understanding of the prosecuted. These step by step presentations almost make you feel like part of the investigating team when the final arrest is made
This event is strictly 18 years-and-over. $35 per person
This event is strictly 18 years-and-over. $35 per person
Includes light refreshments at intermission.
Includes light refreshments at intermission
Location: Horsham Church of Christ, 91 River Road, Horsham
Location: Horsham Church of Christ, 91 River Road, Horsham
Raffle Tickets and Merchandise for sale
Raffle Tickets and Merchandise for sale
Book your tickets today at https://remember org au/events/inside-story/ or by scanning the QR code
Book your tickets today at https://remember.org.au/events/inside-story/ or by scanning the QR code.
Bookings close 5pm July 29
Bookings close 5pm July 29
Proudly supported by:
Rail trail backing
ABY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
bid to extend the Grampians Rail Trail to Halls Gap continued to gather momentum as Northern Grampians Shire Council last month committed to providing up to $20,000 annually for trail maintenance.
The council’s financial backing is contingent upon volunteer management group Friends of Grampians Rail Trail securing a $300,000 grant through the Western Renewables Link Local Grants Fund.
The grant, if secured, would fund the bulk of a planned trail extension from its current western terminus south of Lake Lonsdale to Halls Gap.
The council will write a letter supporting Friends of Grampians Rail Trail’s grant application, with Western Renewables Link to announce successful applicants in December.
With the planned extension set to cross land managed by GWMWater and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, DEECA, a report from senior planner Tony Dark recommended the council commit to funding trial maintenance only on council-owned land.
But councillors voted to commit up to $20,000 annually for maintenance across the entire trial, commencing in June 2028.
Cr Jenny Greenberger said it made ‘a lot of sense’ to support the volunteer committee with maintenance costs.
“The committee will get the work done much cheaper than if council were to do it, which has been proposed, as it is a well-organised committee run by volunteers, whereas if the council were to do it there would be a lot of overheads and a lot of additional paid staff to implement the project,” she said.
“Council officers will support the committee to obtain funding from elsewhere if possible, so this is a bit of a fallback position for the committee if they are unable to do that.
“They’ve also made a commitment to raise $6000 annually themselves by running events and seeking financial sponsorship and support.”
Cr Greenberger said modelling by economic data analysts REMPLAN showed the rail trail, as currently constructed, brought an economic benefit of $2.4-million to the region annually.
“This will certainly grow if it’s extended to Halls Gap,” she said.
Cr Karen Probst said agreeing to fund maintenance across the entire trail was ‘a very difficult decision’.
“One of the issues is, part of this is on council land, part of it’s not, so council is making basically an indefinite commitment to cover
maintenance costs up to $20,000 per year if the committee is not able to support it themselves,” she said.
“But the rail trail from Halls Gap to Stawell would have a great impact on our communities.
“I think sometimes we focus a lot on money but not on the social and community benefit, which can’t always be measured in dollar amounts.
“I think $20,000 a year is a small commitment for a $300,000 grant to get the trail completed.”
Friends of Grampians Rail Trail founder John Pye thanked the councillors for their support.
“It’s very much welcome. Our grant application depended on that particular aspect,” he said.
“That money is just not available anywhere to us, so we were in a quandary – there’s no way you could be asking for a grant saying we’re going to build this wonderful facility and then in a couple of years’ time it could fall into disrepair.”
Mr Pye said he believed the committee stood a good chance of securing the grant.
“I’ve written a lot of grant applications before and it’s a really strong one,” he said.
“We’ve got a good story and all the fine detail that they would expect. We’ve got a series of key approvals that have been done, so we’re already well on the way.
“Once we get the trail fully open, it will become an iconic trail. In the submissions there’s a bit of a ticklist of things that highlight what a top rail trail is, and we pretty much tick every box.”
Mr Pye said he understood the council’s hesitancy to commit to funding maintenance across the entire trail, but that he believed they had made the right decision.
“This is such a great model because we end up getting a thing built like we already have with the first 12km of the trail and then they get a bargain-basement price on maintenance,” he said.
Mr Pye said the committee had also recently secured a separate $8803 grant from the Foundation for Regional and Rural Renewal, FRRR, to extend the Stawell end of the trail from Grampians Road to Federation Park.
He said while the $300,000 Western Renewables Link grant would fund the majority of the trail’s extension towards Halls Gap, more money would be required to complete the project.
“The next stage, which is 2700 metres, we’re now starting to look for funding for, so we’re not stopping. We’re on a roll here,” he said.
“That would be the last link, which would get us to Halls Gap.
“We’re almost there. Each time we get closer it provides a bit of an avenue for cyclists, but getting to Halls Gap is the key.”
Yeowart tells Horsham story
Horsham is the setting of Lyn Yeowart’s new novel ‘The Hollow Girl’, and where she will be interviewed by local historian Pam Cupper before hosting a writing workshop.
Formerly from Horsham, Yeowart taught at its high school in the 1980s; she said she wanted to pay homage to her years in the rural city, and even mentions bakery The Oven Door and nightclub La Fontana.
“Because the book is set in a home for unmarried mothers, of which there were a lot in the 1960s and ’70s, I wanted it to be a bit remote, and Horsham certainly was that then, in terms of the highway and without things like the internet,” she said.
“When I was living in Horsham, I always thought the weather was quite extreme – it was really hot in summer and freezing in winter –and I wanted that to play a role in the book.
“I also wanted a location that I have a lot of attachment to and fond memories of.”
Yeowart said the story’s fictional home for unmarried mothers was based on the experiences of a friend, and on her research on forced adoption.
“When I started researching, I was honestly astounded by how rife it was in Australia – no one’s entirely sure, but they think there were about 250,000 babies taken from their mothers,” she said.
“One thing that really astounded me was nearly everyone I told the subject of my new book to
would say things like, ‘oh, my mother/my aunt/ my next-door neighbour’s mother was sent to one of those places’.
“One woman said to me, ‘I was one of those women’, that rocked me, and then one day I was telling a friend of mine who I’ve known for decades, and he said, ‘oh, I was one of those babies’.
“There were a lot of people affected – there were 250,000 women and 250,000 babies –that’s 500,000 people at a time when there was only about 12-million people in Australia.
“Their families were affected, and the siblings, and half siblings, and children, and the long-term ramifications have also staggered me.”
Yeowart’s novel follows her first, ‘The Silent Listener’, a psychological thriller that has been shortlisted for awards, translated into French and Russian, and is being adapted into a television series.
Former high school colleague Cupper will interview Yeowart at Horsham Library on Wednesday, July 15 at 6pm.
Yeowart’s Horsham workshop, where she said she would share tips on novel-writing to prevent other people from making the same mistakes she did, is at 6pm on Thursday, July 17 at the library. Attendance for both sessions is free of charge but bookings are essential. People can visit www.wimmeralibraries.vic.gov.au/events for more information and to register.
– Bronwyn Hastings
Are you retiring in the next five years?
You might be asking yourself questions like:
• When can I retire?
• Do I have enough funds to retire?
• When and how can I access my super?
• Where will my income come from in retirement?
• Will I qualify for any government assistance? We specialise in retirement advice, and can answer your questions, to help you find peace of mind.
Richard, Penelope and Dean
Hindmarsh results trending upwards
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
Hindmarsh Shire residents have rated their council’s overall performance at one of the highest levels achieved in recent years.
The annual community satisfaction survey showed progress in most of the council’s service areas.
Mayor Ron Ismay said the survey formed part of the picture of how the council identified areas for improvement and tracked progress over time.
“We also look at other input, like complaints, service requests, in person consultations and feedback received from community members who take the time to tell us when we’re doing something well – everyone’s experi-
ence matters,” he said. The council has recorded continued improvement in its overall performance, with community satisfaction increasing to one of the highest levels achieved in recent years.
While the improvement is modest, it builds on a positive trend over the past three years and reflects steady progress across most of the council’s service areas.
Council performs in line with, or above, state-wide and small rural council averages in most areas, highlighting strong service delivery across the organisation.
Customer service and waste management remain among the council’s strongest areas, although recent results indicated a decline in perceptions
“We also look at other input, like complaints, service requests, in person consultations and feedback received from community members who take the time to tell us when we’re doing something well – everyone’s experience matters”
– Ron Ismay
of waste management, which will be a focus for improvement.
Cr Ismay said throughout the next 12 months, the council would prioritise strengthening community consultation and engagement, as well as en-
suring decision-making continued to reflect the interests of the community.
He said targeted efforts would be directed towards improving perceptions in the West Ward, including Nhill, where results were lower compared to other areas.
“This survey helps us identify areas for improvement, and we’ll be working with our West Ward residents to advocate for better funding and attention for local Department of Transport-managed roads and address their concerns,” he said.
Cr Ismay said the council remained committed to building on its current performance, maintaining its strengths, and addressing areas for improvement to better serve the Hindmarsh community.
The survey is conducted annually as part of a mandatory statewide assessment of community satisfaction across councils.
It asks the opinions of local people about the place they live, work and play and provides confidence for councils in their efforts and abilities. Each year the community satisfaction survey data is used to develop a state-wide report, which contains all of the aggregated results, analysis and data.
People can view this year’s results, and those of previous years, at the council website www.hindmarsh.vic. gov.au/Council/Council-Resources/ Community-Satisfaction-Survey. • Hindmarsh Budget approved, page 18
Changing face of auxiliary
Dale Stronach has changed the face of Rural Northwest Health’s Ladies’ Auxiliary.
Mr Stronach is the first male to join the group, which is now known as Auxiliary.
Mr Stronach has assisted wife and auxiliary member, Sandra, with raffles and other activities and thought it was ‘about time’ he became a member.
The auxiliary raises money and organises activities aimed to assist aged care residents and patients.
Its members meet on the third Wednesday of each month; people can call Alison Fernandez on 5396 1200 for more information or to join.
Library on move
Ararat Rural City Council is enabling residents across the municipality to access mobile library services with an outreach schedule alongside new digital-literacy and coding programs.
Library outreach brings books, resources and services directly to smaller communities throughout the municipality.
Residents can visit the mobile service at Elmhurst on Mondays from 10am to 12.30pm and Streatham from 2.30pm to 3.30pm. On Tuesdays, the service visits Pomonal from 10.30am to 11.30am, Moyston from 12.30pm to 1.30pm and Willaura from 2.30pm to 3.30pm.
The council is also inviting people to join digital-literacy sessions at Ararat Library on Mondays and Tuesdays.
For children aged eight to 11, a coding club introduces participants to beginner-friendly programming, game creation and real-world coding concepts. The club is on Mondays and Tuesdays from 4pm to 5pm, with additional sessions for new starters on August 3 and 4.
Participants will also have an opportunity to explore robotics using the library’s Sphero Bolt+ robots, learning how to program and guide them through interactive challenges within the library.
Mayor Bob Sanders encouraged residents to drop in to their local outreach stop or visit the Ararat or Lake Bolac libraries to take part in the programs.
Dale Stronach
Funding boost for community events
Horsham Rural City Council has endorsed more than $86,000 in funding to support a calendar of community events across the municipality in 2026-27.
A total of 26 community-led events will share in $86,050 through the council’s community events grants program, helping organisations deliver festivals, cultural celebrations, sporting events and community gatherings.
The grants form part of the council’s broader $235,000 community grants program, which supports not-for-profit groups to strengthen community connection, wellbeing and participation.
Mayor Brian Klowss said the program demonstrated council’s commitment to empowering local groups and fostering a strong, connected community.
“Community events are the heartbeat of our municipality,” he said.
“They bring people together, celebrate what makes our region special and create opportunities for locals and visitors alike to connect and participate.
“We are proud to support 26 events this year, with more than $86,000 in funding that not only supports local volunteers and organisations, but also provides a valuable boost to our local economy.”
Applications were independently assessed against the council’s community grants policy, with funding allocated following a rigorous evaluation process.
Cr Klowss acknowledged the important role of community groups in delivering events.
“Our not-for-profit sector plays a vital role in creating inclusive, welcoming and engaging experiences for residents and visitors,” he said.
“These grants help turn great ideas into reality and ensure our events calendar continues to grow and thrive.”
Council’s community events grants program is one of four funding streams designed to support local initiatives, alongside community development grants, youth grants and urgent need grants.
Applications for the program opened in March 2026, with information sessions and promotional activities supporting applicants throughout the process.
Successful applicants have been notified so they can begin planning for their 2026-27 events.
The grant recipients, event and grant total were: Barengi Gadjin Land Council: Banya Wile Cultural Gathering 2026, $10,000. Horsham Arts Council Inc: HAC musical productions, $9000.
“These grants help turn great ideas into reality and ensure our events calendar continues to grow and thrive”
– Brian Klowss
Horsham Cricket Association: Junior Cricket Country Week, $1000.
Wimmera District Veteran Golfers Association: Victorian Veterans Golf Association State Championships, $4500.
Kannamaroo Festival Inc: Kannamaroo Festival, $5500.
Wimmera Against Cancer in Kids: Check Engine Light Night, $6000.
Wimmera Rockers Danceworld: Rock and Roll Festival/Dance, $2500.
Horsham Table Tennis Association: Come and enjoy table tennis, $600.
Rotary Club of Horsham East: Science and Engineering Challenge, $5000.
Horsham and District Orchid Society: annual Spring Show, $1200.
www.facebook.com/WimmeraLibraries.
PLUCKY: Horsham band Silver Strings played at Horsham Library’s July Wriggle and Read session last week, entertaining children up to the age of five years. The musical group was inspired by Edenhope’s Intergenerational Day, which saw school students teach seniors how to use devices, while seniors shared stories of life before modern conveniences. Wimmera Libraries co-ordinator Sarah Wiesner, right, said the Silver Strings would again perform at the library. People can check for updates at the library or on Wimmera Libraries’ Facebook page
Have you registered your child for Kindergarten in 2027?
HORSHAM & DISTRICT KINDERGARTENS
BENNETT ROAD KINDERGARTEN
3 & 4yo kindergarten
MONDAY 13TH JULY
2.00 – 3.00PM
1H Bennett Road, Horsham
BANI MANYA KINDERGARTEN
3 & 4yo kindergarten
4YO – MONDAY 13TH JULY
2.45 - 3.45PM
3YO – TUESDAY 14TH JULY
2.30 – 3.30PM
30 Bleakley Street, Horsham
GREEN PARK KINDERGARTEN
3 & 4yo kindergarten
3YO – MONDAY 13TH JULY
2.15 – 3.15PM
4yo Acacia
TUESDAY 14TH JULY
2.15 – 3.15PM 4yo Casuarina
TUESDAY 14TH JULY
2.00 – 3.00PM
20 Williams Road, Horsham
NATIMUK PRESCHOOL
3 & 4yo kindergarten
TUESDAY 14TH JULY
2.30 – 3.30PM 2 Regent Street, Natimuk
HORSHAM KINDERGARTEN
3 & 4yo kindergarten
WEDNESDAY 15TH JULY
2.30 – 3.30PM 7A High Street North, Horsham NATIMUK ROAD KINDERGARTEN
West Wimmera Shire Council’s long-standing role in maintaining State Government roads concluded on June 30, transferring road-maintenance responsibilities to the Department of Transport and Planning.
Although the council had expressed its willingness to continue delivering services on behalf of the government, the state authority transitioned maintenance of the roads to its own contractors following changes to the Victorian Road Maintenance Contract model. The roads will continue to be maintained in accordance with Victoria’s Road Management Act.
Mayor Tim Meyer said the change marked the conclusion of one of Victoria’s longest-running partnerships between a council and the State Government.
Since the establishment of the Country Roads Board in 1913, successive state road authorities have partnered with rural councils to maintain Victoria’s arterial road network.
“For generations, our council has proudly maintained many of the state’s major arterial roads on behalf of the Victorian government,” Cr Meyer said.
“It is a partnership that has endured in various forms for more than a century and has played an important role in connecting our communities.
“Thousands of kilometres have been graded, resurfaced, patched and rebuilt by dedicated council employees over the decades.
“Many of our staff have spent entire careers caring for these roads, often responding around the clock to storms, floods and emergencies to keep communities connected.
“This marks the end of an historic chapter, and it is fitting to recognise the generations of council employees whose skill, dedication and commitment have helped keep these roads safe for residents, visitors and the freight industry.”
Cr Meyer said since its formation in 1995, West Wimmera Shire Council had proudly continued the legacy, building on the work of its predecessor municipalities and the many council employees who maintained
Victoria’s arterial roads under contract arrangements with, and on behalf of, successive state road authorities.
“Our staff have always taken enormous pride in maintaining these roads, often under challenging conditions and with limited resources,” he said.
“As funding available for routine maintenance has become increasingly constrained, it has become more difficult to achieve the standard of road condition that both council and our community expect.
“The condition of many state-managed arterial roads should not be seen as a reflection of the dedication or quality of work performed by our crews. Rather, it reflects the challenge of maintaining an ageing and heavily used road network within the funding provided.”
Cr Meyer said the council believed the long-standing partnership with the state could continue to deliver excellent outcomes for communities.
“We were willing to continue undertaking this work and are disappointed this opportunity will no longer exist,” he said.
“One of the greatest strengths of the previous arrangement was that local people maintained local roads. We are concerned the loss of locally based maintenance crews and their knowledge of our road network may impact the responsiveness and efficiency of future maintenance activities.
“We sincerely hope the new arrangements are successful and our communities continue to receive the level of service they deserve.”
Residents can now contact the Department of Transport and Planning directly regarding issues on state-managed arterial roads. For urgent hazards requiring immediate attention, people can call 13 11 70 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Non-urgent road maintenance issues can be reported through Transport Victoria online at transport.vic.gov.au/contact-us/ road-issues-and-enquiries.
West Wimmera Shire Council will continue to inspect and maintain all council-controlled local roads across the municipality; people can check which body manages which roads by searching ‘whose road is it anyway?’ on the council’s website.
Jaboor steps up for challenge
Paramedic and volunteer firefighter Phil Jaboor will take on one of Victoria’s toughest emergency-service fundraising events in September, climbing 28 flights of Melbourne’s Crown Metropol in full operational gear as part of the 13th Annual Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb.
The event, on September 12, brings together firefighters and emergency-service personnel from across Australia and overseas to raise money for cancer research and crisis-support services.
Participants climb while carrying up to 25 kilograms of equipment, symbolising the physical and mental burdens people may face.
For Mr Jaboor, who has volunteered with Horsham Fire Brigade since 2023 while working full-time as a paramedic, the challenge is about more than physical fitness.
“I like to challenge myself –firefighting takes a lot of physical and mental fitness,” he said.
“The stair climb brings awareness to the struggles faced by so many people.”
Mr Jaboor balances his commitments to the CFA around a fourdays-on, four-days-off paramedic roster, responding to fire calls whenever possible.
Preparation for the stair climb has been intense; he swims five kilometres six times a week, weight trains up to five days weekly, and has added YMCA step classes and some stair machine work to build leg strength and endurance.
“I’m not a fan of the stair-machine,” he said.
“But it’s helping – it’s all about engine and endurance.”
While this is his first stair climb, Mr Jaboor said it did not take much to convince him to join in.
“The captain sent me a text asking if I was doing it,” he said.
“I thought about it for a of couple days and thought, why not? That’ll be fun.”
The additional 25 kilograms of gear – including firefighting gear and breathing apparatus – will add another layer of difficulty to the challenge.
“It’s a bit brutal, but there’s one way to find out if my training has paid off,” Mr Jaboor said.
He also said there was a personal significance to participating – having been in emergency services for a decade he has seen the impacts of mental health on his colleagues and their families.
“Events like these help raise awareness and support services such as Lifeline, which are important for our community,” he said.
Community support has already been strong, with Mr Jaboor individually and the Horsham Fire Brigade sitting among the event’s top-10 fundraisers ahead of the climb.
Their efforts are helping raise funds for Lifeline, Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation and 000Foundation.
Anyone wishing to support Mr Jaboor or the Horsham Fire Brigade can make a donation at the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb website, www.firefighter climb.org.au.
• Anyone experiencing mental-health issues can call Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, Lifeline, 131 114, or Kids Helpline, 1800 551 800.
– Holly Camilleri
Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
Creating a workforce
Ararat Rural City Council is working with Federation University Australia to promote free TAFE opportunities in early-childhood education and care to residents across the district this year and next.
Chief executive Tim Harrison said the council had committed to building the region’s workforce by creating accessible training and career pathways for residents who wanted to work in the early-childhood education sector.
He said the program would help keep jobs within the community while ensuring families could access high-quality early-years education and care.
Federation University will deliver both a Certificate III and a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.
Courses are available through a mix of on-campus, online and workplace delivery, with the Certificate III planned for the Ararat campus in 2027.
Dr Harrison said the study paths were part of the council’s work to support the local early-years workforce, including hosting a second face-to-face session of the Ararat Best Start Workshop Series earlier this month.
The workshop series supports educators and service providers, with every Ararat district service
Ararat Rural City
now providing 30 hours of fouryear-old kinder.
Delivered by Federation University and funded through the State Government’s Innovation Grants Program, the 12-month series provides practical tools and strategies to help educators respond to changes across the sector and improve outcomes for children and families.
The second workshop focused on building resilience, embracing new approaches and responding to the evolving early-childhood landscape.
Dr Harrison said the partnership between the council and Federation University reflected a shared commitment to strengthening the local workforce and supporting long-term community outcomes.
“Access to education and training in early childhood is an important part of supporting families and ensuring children in our community have the best possible start,” he said.
“By working with Federation University, we are creating clearer pathways into the sector and supporting local people to develop the skills needed to meet growing demand.”
Residents interested in enrolling can apply online via Federation University’s website at federation. edu.au or call 1800 FED UNI, 1800 333 864, for more information.
in the Wimmera.
Specialised nursing program expands
The expansion of a specialised nursing program in western Victoria will see more older people treated in their residential homes, reducing unnecessary transfers to hospital.
The Residential In-Reach, RIR, program has appointed its first clinical nurse consultant, CNC, in the Wimmera, Christian Vidal, tasked with supporting on-site care of residents in aged-care facilities.
Mr Vidal joins a team of 12 Ballarat-based CNCs and two nurse practitioners, who also offer virtual assistance to Wimmera aged-care teams.
“Our overarching goal is to keep people in facilities, which is home for them, rather than going to the emergency department or into a hospital,” RIR manager Sue Leibling said.
“We know older people can get sick-
er in hospital, because they are in bed all the time, they are exposed to hospital-acquired infections, and they are not being cared for by familiar people.
“Unless they absolutely need to be there, we want to keep them in their home and flourishing in their own environment.”
RIR facilitates an extensive list of services that enable clinically deteriorating residents to remain on-site, including wound and infection management, medication monitoring/titration, oxygen therapy, falls assessments and delirium screening.
The CNCs are well supported by nurse practitioners and a geriatrician.
“The referral order should be: try the GP first, then RIR, then Victoria Virtual Emergency Department, then
transfer to an emergency department if required,” Ms Leibling said.
“Our highly qualified and experienced CNCs assess the residents, then use their clinical judgement to offer advice to staff or make plans for them to follow on site.”
Before his appointment, Mr Vidal was nurse unit manager and infection control lead at Grampians Health Edenhope.
He will offer virtual and face-to-face RIR services to public and private facilities across western Victoria.
“I am really excited and motivated to make this program work,” he said.
“We want people to be comfortable, not having to be transferred or waiting a long time for care; I know this will make a big difference.”
26th
Different Thinking. Better Outcomes.
Ararat Rural City Council is seeking an innovative, communityminded CEO to lead a progressive regional council into its next stage of growth.
This is an engaging and connected leadership role in a proud municipality known for its temperate climate, wide horizons, striking sunsets and gateway position to the Grampians Region.
You’ll work closely with Council, community, business and government to deliver practical outcomes, strengthen partnerships and support sustainable regional growth.
If you think differently, have a career with breadth and continuous improvement, build trust quickly and want to help shape a strong regional future, we’d like to hear from you.
To learn more, get the position description and application process go to: salcorp-hr.com.au
Confidential enquiries:
Christine - 0409 380 385
11th & 12th JULY 2026
WIMMERA APPOINTMENT: Grampians Health is expanding its Residential In-Reach program, appointing its first clinical nurse consultant, Christian Vidal,
Assets priority in Hindmarsh budget
BY BRONWYN HASTINGS
Hindmarsh Shire Council
will spend 64 per cent of this financial year’s Budget on built and natural environment, which includes roads, footpaths, buildings, waterways, swimming pools and sporting ovals.
Chief executive Monica Revell said this year’s Budget was informed by community consultation, which was open for a month following the draft budget’s release and before its adoption at the June 24 meeting.
“The community told us that roads are important, so we are putting as much money as we can into our assets,” she said.
“$15.4-million in the next financial year is going into maintaining those assets.”
The total amount raised by general rates and charges in 2026-2027 is $10.630-million, an increase of $285,000 from the 2025-26 financial year, however, Mrs Revell said the council was spending $1.6-million more in 2026-27 than it was receiving.
“We have made some savings over the last few years that we can buffer the additional expenditure in 26-27,” Mrs Revell said.
“But it’s not sustainable. Over the coming 12 months, we’ll be working closely with councillors, looking at our service
levels, looking at where we’re spending money and looking at how we’re going to remain sustainable going forward.
“We have also developed another advocacy document, which is around a dedicated fund just for rural councils. We know that rural councils have significant assets, they’ve got significant roads – what we need is some funding that is untied.
“That means funding can be spent as required on our roads or our footpaths, to just maintain the assets we have.
“Generally, with a grant you have to upgrade or it’s for a new item, but what we need as a rural council is funding that just enables us to maintain the assets we already have.”
Hindmarsh’s value of assets per head of population is relatively high – $52,000 compared with $32,000 for Horsham Rural City Council, for example, with average rates of $1660 and $2228 respectively.
“What that is telling us is that we have a lower population, but a higher value of assets we need to maintain, and that’s where it clearly shows the discrepancy in the funding models,” Mrs Revell said.
“Which is why we’re calling for a dedicated rural fund.”
The Budget’s $6.435-million capital works expenditure includes: $430,000 on the
The council has also grouped its buildings depreciation, enabling a prioritisation process like that of roads.
“This year in our Budget, rather than a few thousand dollars for a maternal child health building, $50,000 for maintenance, and then a few thousand dollars for a toilet block, we’ve grouped them into one amount, which now sits in the building area of our Budget,” Mrs Revell said.
“We had a condition assessment undertaken on all of our buildings in the last financial year, which has given us thorough detail on what high priority, medium priority, low priority works need to be undertaken, and our team is working through that document and prioritising based on the condition assessment.
“We may have had $5000, but to fix the item might have been $15,000. They’re now working within the pool of funds we’ve got available and will be prioritising based on that condition assessment.”
People can view the Budget on the council’s website, at www. hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/budget.
FORMALITIES: Students Eliza, left, and Emmett, right, with Ararat Rural City Council deputy chief executive Phuong Au, Mayor Bob Sanders, Member for Ripon Martha Haylett and Y Kinder’s Kara Bartlett at the Jack and Jill Kindergarten opening.
Refurbished kinder reopens
Member for Ripon Martha Haylett joined Ararat Rural City Council Mayor Bob Sanders last month to reopen the refurbished Jack and Jill Kindergarten in Ararat.
Cr Sanders and Ms Haylett toured the refurbished facility, with works including an upgraded kitchen and children’s bathroom, a new sensory room, updated foyer and staff areas, featuring new vinyl flooring, repainting and upgraded energy-efficient LED lighting.
The project also included an upgraded accessible toilet, new doors and hardware to improve safety and privacy, improved insulation for better temperature control and improved access to an outside play area.
The council prioritised upgrades for Jack and Jill Kindergarten, built in 1985, to ensure the facility was capable of supporting high-quality early-childhood education.
The modernised building will also accommodate a growing number of enrolments
driven by the State Government’s Best Start, Best Life reforms.
The State Government provided $745,000 for the project through its Building Blocks Grant program, with the council contributing $76,000.
“It’s wonderful to see the transformation of this space,” Cr Sanders said.
“With some of my own children and grandchildren having gone through this kinder, I know firsthand the quality of education it provides.
“It’s fantastic that these upgrades will keep that going for years to come.”
Cr Sanders said the council would continue to advocate for further State Government investment in early-years infrastructure so facilities across the municipality kept pace with community needs.
People can read more about the council’s advocacy priorities online at www.ararat. vic.gov.au/advocacy.
‘Art of Steel’
Hyundai has revealed the eighth-generation Elantra sedan in South Korea, previewing what is expected to become the next i30 Sedan in Australia.
Known as the Avante in its home market, the redesigned small sedan made its public debut at the 2026 Busan Mobility Show with a more aggressive exterior, larger dimensions, new cabin technology and updated petrol and hybrid drivetrains.
The model adopts Hyundai’s latest ‘Art of Steel’ design language, bringing sharper surfacing, split LED headlights, slim daytime running lights, pronounced wheel arches and a distinctive H-pattern rear lighting signature.
It is a marked departure from the current i30 Sedan, which already stands
apart from more conservative rivals such as the Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 sedan.
The new model measures 4765mm long, 1855mm wide, and 1425mm tall, with a 2750mm wheelbase. That makes it 55mm longer, 30mm wider, and 30mm longer between the axles than the outgoing car, with Hyundai saying the increase has been used to improve interior space.
Inside, the Elantra receives a redesigned cabin with a large central touchscreen measuring either 12.9 or 14.6 inches, depending on grade, and Hyundai’s latest Pleos Connect operating system, introduced in the Ioniq 3.
The new infotainment platform supports downloadable navigation and music applications, reducing reliance on smartphone mirroring, while Hyundai’s Gleo AI generative assistant is
designed to allow more natural voice interaction with the vehicle.
A compact digital instrument display is positioned high on the dashboard, closer to the driver’s line of sight, while physical switches and rotary controls remain below the central screen for key climate functions.
Available equipment in Korea includes a Bang and Olufsen audio system, dual wireless phone chargers, 100W USB-C charging ports, a builtin camera and customisable ambient lighting.
Safety technology has also been expanded, with reports from Korea listing 10 airbags, navigation-based smart cruise control, remote smart-parking assist, memory reversing assist, pedalmisuse safety assist, and an emergency braking function linked to the shift-bywire park mode.
At launch, Korean-market versions will be offered with two powertrains.
The first is an updated 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine producing 110kW, while the second is a 1.6-litre petrol-electric hybrid developing a combined 116kW.
The hybrid gains a predictive regenerative braking system that reads the road ahead to vary energy recovery, as well as a ‘stay’ mode that allows the vehicle to run climate control and infotainment functions while parked.
Hyundai Motor president and chief executive Jose Munoz said the new Avante set a new standard for its class by balancing unrivalled design, interior space, safety and digital experience.
Australian arrival is confirmed, though HMCA is yet to divulge timing.
The i30 Sedan remains a key part of
Hyundai Australia’s small-car line-up alongside the i30 hatch.
The current i30 Sedan is offered with petrol, hybrid, N Line, and highperformance N variants, the latter continuing as one of the few affordable performance sedans available in Australia.
The new Elantra is expected to go on sale in South Korea first, before a wider international rollout that should include North America as the 2027 Elantra.
Should it reach Australia, the model would arrive as traditional small-car demand continues to soften, but with sedans still playing an important role for private buyers, fleets, rideshare operators and performance enthusiasts. – Matt Brogan
Skoda lifts lid on flagship SUV
Skoda has unveiled its new all-electric flagship, the Peaq, a seven-seat upper-large segment SUV that becomes the Czech brand’s biggest and most technologically advanced model to date.
Set to sit at the top of Skoda’s expanding battery-electric vehicle lineup, the Peaq is said to offer a driving range of more than 640km, lounge-inspired cabin appointments, and a raft of firsts for the brand.
At 4874mm long and riding on a 2965mm wheelbase, the Peaq eclipses the Kodiaq in size, becoming Skoda’s first entrant in the upper-large electric SUV segment and its new halo model.
Skoda chief executive Klaus Zellmer said the Peaq represents a new benchmark for the brand, broadening its appeal while retaining the space, practicality and value for money that customers expect.
“The Peaq represents a new reference point for Skoda as our brand flagship, bringing together our core strengths in a way that reflects where we are heading as a company,” he said.
“It expands our appeal to new customer groups, while continuing to deliver the qualities our customers value – space, practicality and strong value for money.
“At the same time, the Peaq plays a central role in broadening our fully electric offering.”
Built on Volkswagen Group’s MEB+ architecture, the Peaq will be offered with two battery packs – a 63kWh unit and a flagship 91kWh battery, the largest ever fitted to a Skoda EV.
Three powertrain variants will be available.
The rear-wheel drive Peaq 60 produces 150kW and offers more than 450km of range, while the rear-wheel drive Peaq 90 and all-wheel drive Peaq 90x deliver 210kW and 220kW respectively.
The Peaq 90 claims the headline range figure of more than 640km,
while the 90x is rated at more than 610km.
DC fast-charging capability allows both battery packs to recharge from 10 to 80 per cent in about 28 minutes, while bidirectional charging supports vehicle-to-load, V2L, vehicle-to-home, V2X, and vehicle-to-grid, V2G, functionality. Skoda says the Peaq also offers towing capacities of up to 2000kg braked.
The Peaq’s exterior introduces several new design features for the marque, including flush door handles, a panoramic roof with electrochromic
ADVANCED: Skoda’s sevenseat EV promises lounge-like comfort and the biggest boot in its history.
‘dynamic shade control’ and a drag coefficient of just 0.249 despite its substantial dimensions.
Inside, the Peaq adopts a loungelike approach, highlighted by a 13.6inch vertically mounted infotainment display – another Skoda first – and an optional ‘relax package’ featuring ventilated and massaging front seats, ergonomic leg rests, and a dedicated wellbeing application.
A new 16-speaker Sonos premium audio system with 755W output has also been developed specifically for the model.
Practicality remains a key focus. In five-seat guise, the Peaq offers a class-leading 935 litres of luggage capacity, supplemented by a 37-litre front storage compartment. Even with all seven seats in place, Skoda says 299 litres of boot space remains.
Technology highlights include ‘travel assist’ 3.0, ‘top area view’ 360-degree parking assistance, an augmented reality head-up display and a suite of standard safety systems including front and side assist, crossroad assist and predictive adaptive cruise control. Ten airbags, including rear side airbags and a centre airbag, are standard across the range.
A sportline variant will be available from launch, distinguished by black exterior detailing, unique interior trim and standard LED matrix headlights.
The Peaq is expected to play a central role in Skoda’s electrification strategy, completing its battery-electric line-up from the top end and attracting new customers to the brand as it pushes towards becoming one of Europe’s top three-selling automotive marques.
While Skoda Australia has yet to confirm local pricing or specifications, the Peaq is expected to arrive Down Under in late 2026 or early 2027, becoming the Czech brand’s largest, most expensive and most technologically advanced model to date.
– Peter Barnwell
L-R: Alan Reddie, Connor Marsh, Justin Van Pamelen & Gavin Reddie.
Based
The Local Trade Directory offers the only true multimedia platform combining print,
For a small weekly investment you will receive an advertisement (as above) PLUS... Receive bonus radio credit mentions on MIXX FM and 3WM throughout your paper advertising period.
LOCAL TRADE DIRECTORY
pUZZLEs
Fill in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and 3x3 block.
Quick Workout
Fit the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon. Brought
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.
On This Day
From The Weekly Advertiser archives: July 6, 2006 –Former Ararat pro runner and coach Jim Pearce was given a surprise testimonial dinner, with guests including athletes he trained and ran with. He was presented with a certificate of appreciation by Ararat Mayor Ian Wilson. Pearce, centre, had not coached in three years but in his heyday had a stable full of talented runners, including Les Ralph, left, who made the final of the Stawell Gift in 1969 alongside Pearce. Don Weston is on the right. Pearce rated the Gift that year as his biggest thrill, even though he finished third, with three inches separating winner Barry McLeod, runner-up Geoff Wilcox and himself.
10 years ago: July 6, 2016
Stawell’s orchid club won the Victorian Country Orchid Clubs’ Challenge, its fifth in the event’s 17-year history. Eleven country cities and towns compete in the annual challenge, which was hosted by Horsham that year. The Horsham club won the champion’s ribbon for most creative display.
Five years ago: July 7, 2021
Longerenong College named an outdoor space the Hawkins Family Courtyard, recognising a long association between agricultural tertiary education and the west Wimmera’s Hawkins family. The unique association featured 18 family graduates across 80 years at Longerenong, Dookie, Glenormiston and Marcus Oldham colleges. Family members, including Ron and Mac Hawkins and their wives Pauline and Joyce, attended a plaque unveiling at Longerenong College.
One year ago: July 9, 2025
A Drought-Ready Think Tank at Horsham discussed resilience-building topics including mentoring, housing, green spaces, business and professional networks, and skills development. Attendees heard results of 10 drought-resilience projects co-ordinated by Wimmera Southern Mallee Development during the previous 18 months. WSMD executive Chris Sounness said the projects had resulted in a more connected and co-ordinated approach in preparing for drought.
TaKE a BrEaK
yOUr LUCKy sTars
WiTh sarah KULKEns
Australia’s Trusted Psychic Family
FOR THE WEEK JULY 5 TO JULY 11
ARIES (March 21 – April 20)
1. Born on this day in 1958 was which American actor, who everyone in Hollywood is apparently within six degrees of separation from?
2. Georgious Panayatiou is the birth name of which singersongwriter?
3. The Romanian Revolution happened in which year – 1984, 1989 or 1995?
4. What is the first name of philosopher De Beauvoir?
5. Still a popular stage musical, what movie was the highest grossing of 1978?
6. Co is the official abbreviation for which element?
7. What is the average gestation period of a pigeon – 11-19 days or 41-49 days?
8. ‘Clair Olivia Huxtable’ was a character in which 1980s television series?
9. The German ‘ein schwan’ translates to what animal in English?
10. Which ship was Japanese, the largest battleship ever built, and sunk by American bombers near Kyushu in 1945?
11. Which car manufacturer produced the ‘Civic’?
12. Classical music performer Andre Rieu is mostly associated with which instrument?
13. What kind of animal is depicted in Emporio Armani’s logo?
14. In cooking, what does the term ‘to spherificate’ mean?
15. In ‘The Famous Five’, what was the name of George Kirrin’s dog?
16. Dying on this day in 1967 was which English actor, known for her roles in ‘Gone with the Wind’ and ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’?
Answers: 1. Kevin Bacon. 2. George Michael. 3. 1989. 4. Simone. 5. ‘Grease’. 6. Cobalt. 7. 11-19 days. 8. The Cosby Show. 9. A swan. 10. Yamato. 11. Honda. 12. Violin. 13. Eagle. 14. Shape liquids into orbs to resemble caviar. 15. Timmy. 16. Vivien Leigh.
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; Lily Olver: 0411 784 001, lolver@aceradio.com.au; James Davidson: 0439 820 014, jdavidson@aceradio.com.au.
This week highlights your natural leadership and dependability. Others may look to you for support, guidance or reassurance, so pace yourself and keep your promises realistic. At work, a calm and steady approach will help you keep the peace and make confident progress. By setting healthy boundaries, you can protect your energy while still being there for the people who matter.
This week encourages balance, especially around spending, wellbeing and work commitments. You may feel tempted to treat yourself, but thoughtful choices will bring greater long-term satisfaction. Your health and daily routine also deserve attention, particularly as responsibilities increase. With patience and practical planning, you can turn this into a rewarding week.
Family matters may take centre stage, giving you the chance to strengthen understanding and improve communication. This is also a helpful time to seek expert advice before making important business, legal or financial decisions. Your ability to ask the right questions will guide you toward better outcomes. Stay open, informed and positive as new clarity begins to unfold.
CANCER (June 22 – July 22)
Lucky Colour: Tan Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 6, 7, 1, 4 Lotto Numbers: 4, 16, 27, 28, 31, 43
Workplace conditions begin to improve, and your business or career prospects look brighter. Recognition may take time, but your ideas are gaining strength and will be noticed when the timing is right. Trust your instincts, but also back them with practical action. This week supports steady growth, renewed confidence and a more optimistic direction.
This week is a reminder to prioritise your wellbeing and not delay what needs attention. Taking care of your health, energy and emotional balance will help you feel stronger in every area of life. Personal relationships may also benefit from a little extra warmth and effort. Small acts of kindness can create a powerful shift in connection and understanding.
This week asks you to trust your timing and avoid being rushed into decisions. A professional dilemma may require careful thought, but the right advice or information will help you find a clear solution. Your strength lies in your attention to detail and your ability to stay composed. With patience, you can turn uncertainty into a well-considered plan.
LIBRA (September 24 – October 23)
Lucky Colour: Old Rose Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 6, 2, 4, 3 Lotto Numbers: 9, 14, 16, 20, 25, 34
Clear communication is your key to a smoother week. Misunderstandings may arise if things are left unsaid, so take the time to explain your thoughts with kindness and confidence. It may also be wise to avoid unnecessary complications with repairs or mechanical matters for now. Focus on harmony, patience and practical choices.
This week encourages organisation and attention to detail. Double-check appointments, plans and commitments so you can avoid confusion and stay ahead of your responsibilities. Financial energy looks more promising, and new duties may bring opportunities for growth. Stay focused and positive.
SAGITTARIUS (November 23 – December 20)
Lucky Colour: Aqua Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 6, 5, 2, 3 Lotto Numbers: 4, 8, 16, 25, 37, 39
Travel plans or personal arrangements may shift, but these changes can still lead you toward a successful outcome. Flexibility will be your greatest advantage this week. News or connections from the past may bring excitement, reflection or a renewed sense of possibility.
Career and job opportunities may begin to move in a positive direction. Family matters also show signs of improvement, bringing a welcome sense of relief or stability. This week supports practical progress, better communication and renewed optimism. A pleasant surprise may lift your spirits and remind you that good things can arrive when you least expect them.
A gentle approach will bring the best results this week. Pushing too hard may create resistance, but patience, calm and composure will help you gain respect. People are more likely to listen when you lead with confidence rather than pressure. Stay cool under pressure and you will find your influence growing in quiet but meaningful ways.
PISCES (February 20 – March 20)
Lucky Colour: Brown Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 4, 3, 5, 1 Lotto Numbers: 7, 15, 25, 26, 31, 45
This is a busy and socially uplifting week for Pisces. New people, fresh interests and unexpected invitations may open your mind to exciting possibilities. Your perspective is shifting in a positive way, helping you feel more inspired and connected. Say yes to experiences that feel aligned, as they may lead to meaningful discoveries.
^ _ ` a b c d e f g h i
Queen
Love and best wishes from your family and friends
DRAGE, Judith Mary of Warracknabeal, on June 27, 2026
Loved wife of Graham.
Loved mother & motherin-law of David & Narelle, Cameron & Stacey. Granma to Will, Toby, Amelia, Matilda.
DUNLOP, Graeme William ‘Chops’
Passed away surrounded by family on July 5, 2026 aged 64 years.
Dearly loved son of James & Fay (both dec).
Loving brother and brother-in-law of Russell & Cheryl; Jill & Cameron; Craig & Sandra.
The Greatest Uncle to Sally, Greg & Bec, Tim & Camille, Nathan, Jess & Joel; Travis & Yas, Katherine & Josh, Joe & Andrea; Bethany & Aaron, Oliver and their families.
Dearly loved and forever missed. He will never be replaced.
KRELLE, Burton Hamlyn
02/03/1933 – 05/07/2026
Passed away peacefully, at Iona Digby Harris nursing home
Loving husband of Audrey for 65 years.
Loving Father of Jennifer, Trevor, Ashley and Bronwyn. Grandfather to 11 grandchildren and Greatgrandfather to 4 greatgrandchildren.
Rest In Peace
To be privately farewelled.
McRAE, Geoffrey Maxwell
“Geoff ”
Passed away peacefully on 30 June 2026, aged 88 years.
Formerly from Jung and loved son of Frank and Lily McRae (dec).
Brother of Jock (dec) and Jan (dec).
Dearly loved and loving husband of Nola and much loved father of Sally, Jenny and Tim.
Admired father-in-law of Gerard and Anna and cherished grandfather of Joe, Nick, Conor, Beth, Angus, Matthew, Maddi and Ella.
A man of wisdom, integrity and quiet strength.
Always calm, thoughtful and kind, Geoff was deeply loved by his family and respected by all who knew him.
His love, guidance and gentle presence will remain in our hearts forever.
Peacefully passed away at Dunmunkle Lodge, Minyip, surrounded by care and love.
Beloved wife of the late Wallace Reynolds (dec).
A deeply loved daughter of the late Len and Daisy Schmidt (dec).
Loving sister, aunt, great-aunt, treasured family member and loyal friend to many.
A woman of unwavering Christian faith, quiet strength, generosity and compassion, whose life was devoted to family, community and helping others. Beverley’s warmth, kindness and gentle spirit touched countless lives throughout the Wimmera and beyond.
A life measured not by what she accumulated, but by the love she shared, the people she served and the family she cherished.
Her legacy of love, service and faith will continue through all who were privileged to know her.
Reunited with Wallace. Forever in our hearts.
Lovingly remembered by Brendan, Mylane, Jay, Jared, Chloe, Aiden always.
“Treasured memories are ours to keep”
Horsham & District Funerals
Dylan & Amity Hartwich 5382 1149
FERGUSON, Marjory
You have left a space no-one can fill. We love you and miss you, and always will.
Your loving husband Bob and family.
DRAGE
The funeral of Mrs Judith Mary Drage will leave the Uniting Church Warracknabeal on Thursday, July 16, 2026 after a service commencing at 1.30pm for the Warracknabeal Lawn Cemetery.
W.B. Gardiner & Son
Funeral Directors Warracknabeal 0407 340 064
REYNOLDS, Beverly Florence
The graveside service to farewell the late Mrs. Beverley Reynolds will be held at Horsham Lawn cemetery on Friday 10th of July 2026 commencing at 11.30am.
Amity & Dylan Hartwich 5382 1149
WOODS
The Funeral of Mr Malcolm Scott Woods will leave the Uniting Church Warracknabeal on Friday July 10th, 2026 after a Service commencing at 1:30pm for the Warracknabeal Lawn Cemetery.
This Service will be live streamed via the following link: https://livingitlive.com.au/ malcolm-woods
W.B. Gardiner & Son
Funeral Directors Warracknabeal 0407 340 064
Thank you
~ PHELAN ~ Bill
Josie & family thank everyone for their cards, flowers, food, phone calls & visits following Bill’s passing.
Your kindess & support has been greatly appreciated. Josie, Adrian, Ange, Margi, Joe & Chrissy.
DUNLOP, Graeme William ‘Chops’
The funeral of Chops
Dunlop will take place at the Rupanyup Community Centre (Gibson St) on Tuesday, July 14, 2026 commencing at 1pm and will be followed by burial at the Rupanyup Lawn Cemetery.
Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph
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
Birds for sale, princess parrots and bourkes, all colours, call for prices Ph 0408535515 Stawell
Bristlenose catfish, great tank cleaners $5ea until sold out Ph 0474159010 after 6.30pm
Budgies, assorted colours $10 each Ph 0417533579
Buying, Pigs, Goats and Poultry, Ph 0427361940 or Ph 0480137184.
Eclectus parrots aviary birds only, 2 year olds and a pair ready to breed, three pairs $1100 per pair Ph or text 0492486058 Dimboola
Golden Retriever X Lab puppie s , both girls and boys, vacc chip wormed DOB 9/5/2026, ready 4 July 900164002407397 /386/394/401/ 398/389/388/393/400/387, source # MB310162 $1000 Ph or text 0492486058 Dimboola
Pet care for a 13yr old calm female greyhound at your house in stawell/horsham while I grocery shop Ph David 0427864628
2023 Jayco Cross Trak, 4.2m 14’, Hybrid pop-top, off road suspension, solar, TV, external shower, diesel heater, generator, air con, 2 fridges, tare 1370, tows behind most vehicles, as new condition $38,000 Ph 0421511754
2023 Mystic 12’ Fantasy Caravan, only been used once, always shedded, $36,000 Ph 0427857354
Avan Caravan, Aspire 555-2, single beds, hard top, 2024, 5.36m 18’ tare 1455kg, ball weight 135kg, registered til Feb 27, single axle, electric brakes, solar panels, air conditioning, roof top, seperate shower and toilet, awning, TV bracket, jerry can holders, telescopic table, very good condition $40,000 Ph 0488060787
Kimberley Off Road Kamper, genuine all Australian made in Ballina NSW $8000 Ph 0427535212
Motorhome Jayco Fiat Conquest , model FA 25.3, 4yrs old, $13,000 of extras, EC, 10,000kms $148,000 Ph 0428340802
caravans
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 Jayco Freedom 2001, Horsham van from new, always shedded, easy tow, new tyres/bearings done, single beds, all applicances, EC, reg P06130, $8,990 Ph 0419158894
REDUCED 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 $27,500 Ph 0418325662
Oaten hay and wheaten hay
8x4x3 bales, feedtests and delivery avail by single or b double load Ph 0429944146 Nhill
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
5 litre oxygen concentrator as new, beige recliner rockers, blue 2 seater couch, kitchen table, colour tv Ph 0429821820
8x4 trailer , deep sides, big wheels, $1000 Ph 0478254195
White outdoor lawn mower, needs starter, and Girntz tilter $600 Ph 0427828420
Wood Thicknesser, Barker 2’, AE Herbert 1’ buzzer, sold together $2000 Ph 53524764
Black 6 piece dining setting in good condition $200, large wooden rimmed mirror $85, a number of pictures and painting ranging from $10-$30, open to offers Ph 0409312294 Ararat
Lift Bed, IC333 four function, used 6 months, includes cool balance 10’ mattress $3000 each 2 available Ph 0417156434 Horsham
Electric Scooter, disc brakes, carrier, 2 speeds, back shockers, brand new, helmet included $820 Ph 0428425686
Sectorcare walker 8” wheels with cane holder brand new unused $100 Ph 0353 583206
Shoprider Rocky 4 renowned tough mobility scooter with soft ride, less than one hours use, large wheels, 45km travel range, overhead sun canopy and rear storage bag, still under 10 years structural warranty, paid $6750, sell $4000 Ph 0419820000
Topgun
Volkswagen Jetta TSI 2009, ac, cruise, elec windows, door locks, service history, RWC, 6months reg, 164,000kms XIC932 $3800 Ph 0428425686
2017 Holden Trailblazer LTZ Auto, full service history, RWC supplied, excellent condition, roobar, towbar, roof racks, 227,000km $19,300 Ph 0409559364
2014 Toyota Prado, GX 4x4, RWC, reg til Oct, 1BJ6BL $24,000 Ph 0409954335
Sentiveco daily/5th wheeler combo, set up for off grid, too many extras to list, was $102,000 now $97,000 Ph 0438149265 Vintage Skyline 60’s Caravan, registered, useable condition, loft, full annex, $5000 Ph 0419778181 Jeparit
1 Case tractor Model l, 1 McCormick Deering Model W30 $2000 ono each Ph 53844287
$50, Ladies Avanti Discovery 27 Speed as new $300, Unisex Trek ‘Legal’ E-Bike Bosch Electrics, hydraulic disc brakes, as new, cost $4k + selling for $2900 Ph 0427617677 Horsham
Meat Mincer , 4 inch throat, portable on stand, stainless tray, electric motor $300 Ph 0428944143
3.7 savage aluminium boat, UM198, 20 HP Mercury forward steer reyco trailer, b15834 electric motor and lawrence fish finder $2200 ono Ph 0428523919
Chook house, 1500mm wide 1400H x 1200L, nest box attached, keep your chooks safe from predators, $250 Ph 5358344
Cool room drop-in unit, 1 horsepower, 10amp plug in, digital control, other sizes available $1850 Ph 0417101120
Dyson V8 Animal cordless Vacuum, extra accessories plus tall stand, hardly used, very good condition $350 Ph 0408511140 Ararat
Electric motor, working order $80 Ph 0428504301
Four arm walker , $150 ph0437600095
Fresh Farm eggs! $5 a dozen Ph 0423182267
Full lift electric chair, pure leather, $350 Ph 0478254195
Gold and opal ring, approx 80yrs old, current valuation $4500 would like $1000 Ph 0458014560
Home Gym, model no L7200
weight lift machine $400ono, Tempo Fitness walking machine model ND186 $300ono Ph 0400170255
Multiple items - Swing saw, new belts, 39” blade with bench, Kohler motor rec, 2 old lawn mowers, good goers, chainsaws all in good cond, all makes, 10 speed mens bike, ex cond, 80ltr car fridge, in cooler bag, new, never used, make an offer Ph 0429824055
Nissan Forklift, very reliable $8500 Ph 0429821541
Oaten hay rolls for sale,4’ 6 X 4, $75 p/roll Ph Terry Wardlaw 0427105591 Balmoral
Pallet Jack crown, very little use from new, asking $400 Ph 0421791492 Stawell
Parsnip seed , professionally cleaned $200 per kg Ph Pat 0427822455
2015 Mazda BT-50 Extra Cab - 6 Wheeler, with rear lazy axle, GVM upgrade to 4490kg, custom 3 metre tray with toolboxes, slide out drawer, ladder rack, dual batteries, electric brakes, snorkel, clearview mirrors, quality canvas canopy, good condition, 104,200 kms, reg 1IX7PW, $42,000 Ph 0409820089
condition $30,000 Ph 0421511754
2019 BMW 330i M Sport
New TC Boxes 900mm tapered under tray alloy toolbox (pair) Ph 0400387895
Suzuki Grand Vitara Trekker JB 4D Wagon, RW N165534 11/7/25, speedo when purchased 202,549kms current 20,6528kms, has little use only 4079 kl, tow-bar, full service history, great car to drive, reg Oct 26 1GO5JL $6850 Ph 0466641895
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
Urban water and wastewater tariffs
Drinking water in the following towns/districts
Ararat, Beulah, Birchip, Brim, Charlton, Dimboola, Donald, Edenhope, Elmhurst, Great Western, Halls Gap, Hopetoun, Horsham, Jeparit, Kaniva, Lake Bolac, Manangatang, Minyip, Murtoa, Natimuk, Nhill, Ouyen, Pomonal, Quambatook, Rainbow, Rupanyup, Sea Lake, St Arnaud, Stawell, Ultima, Underbool, Warracknabeal, Willaura, Woomelang, Wycheproof
and sporting clubs not receiving the discounts should contact GWMWater to discuss eligibility and to obtain an application form.
All tariffs are
applied is 25 mm.
on
## Refer to GWMWater New Customer Contribution Negotiating Framework located on our website for guidelines.
* Town moving to a drinking water tariff once declared.
^ Water taken from fire services for fire fighting purposes does not attract a charge. Any consumptive water drawn from standpipes / fire services attracts a volumetric charge of $3.1386 per kL for fully treated water and $1.8276 per kL for non potable water.
APPRENTICE POSITION –CALLING ALL
Your future could be ELECTRIC!!
Auto Electric that is..................the future of Auto. FANTASTIC opportunity for an enthusiastic person to join our happy, hardworking team as an APPRENTICE Automotive Electrician. If you love auto and working with your hands, as well as your mind, we are an epic, stable environment to help you become the best Auto Elect Tech in the business! If this sounds like you – either full time or SBA email your resume to admin@horshamautoelectrical.com.au
We look forward to meeting you!!!!
Ararat, Horsham & Warracknabeal
To find out more contact Shannon: email horsham.distribution@gmail.com or phone/text 0438 064 269
JOIN OUR TEAM
Join the Hindmarsh team and contribute to our beautiful Shire. We are currently accepting applications for the following positions:
Team Leader Pools and Recreation Facilities
Permanent Full Time
Salary commencing at $77,178 per annum Applications close 12noon on Wednesday 15 July 2026.
Accounts and Payroll Officer
Permanent Full Time
Salary commencing at $77,178 per annum Applications close 12noon on Wednesday 15 July 2026
Plant Operator Labourer - Jeparit Permanent Full Time (9-day fortnight)
Salary commencing at $67,634 per annum Applications close 12noon on Wednesday 22 July 2026
Scan the QR code for details about these roles and how to apply, or visit our website: www.hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/ work-in-council
Manager at the Warracknabeal Racecourse.
This is a key leadership position responsible for maintaining high-quality racing surfaces and ensuring the racecourse and facilities are presented to the highest standard for race meetings and events.
About the Role
Reporting to the Club Manager and Chairman, responsibilities include:
• Preparation and maintenance of the racetrack in line with Racing Victoria standards
• Upkeep of grounds, gardens, buildings, and infrastructure
• Supervision and development of sta and contractors
• Implementation of maintenance programs and budgets
• Ensuring a safe environment in accordance with OH&S requirements
• Race day and event preparation
About You
The ideal candidate will have:
• Experience in turf management or a similar role
• Strong organisational and leadership skills
• Ability to operate and maintain machinery
• Good communication skills and a proactive attitude
• Knowledge of the racing industry (desirable) What We O er
• Full-time position (38 hours per week, seasonal variation applies)
• Work vehicle and mobile phone provided
• Opportunity to work in a respected country racing club
• Supportive, community-focused environment
Applications For a Position Description or to apply, please contact: Mark Phelan
Email - markphelan024@gmail.com
Applications close: 31/07/2026
We are looking for a Client Services Manager to oversee the service delivery for all Supported Employees at AXIS Worx, providing support to the Employees, Supervisors and the Director of Social Enterprises.
• Promote AXIS Worx within the local community and work with schools and other service providers to attract potential Supported Employees
• Coordinate the initial contact for new Supported Employees, maintaining a register of interested applicants
• Cultivate a positive workplace where Supported Employees feel encouraged to achieve their employment goals. Provide necessary training and upskilling opportunities, while documenting their process along the way
• Monitor support ratios within each department
• Provide assistance to Supervisors and Director of Social Enterprises as needed
We want someone with strong leadership skills, adaptive communication style, empathetic and a motivator!
We offer:
• Company iPhone for private use
• Company iPad for private use
• Superannuation paid at a rate of 1% about the Superannuation Guarantee rate
• Salary Packaging options
• 3 bonus days over Christmas
• Eligibility for 5 weeks of Annual Leave after 4 years of service
• Eligibility for annual Staff Bonus after 6 months of service
• Access to our Employment Assistance Program (EAP)
• Flexible working environment in accordance with our Leave policy
The total value of the package on offer is equivalent to $109,442 All applications need to made via Seek.com –au.seek.com/job/93083224 More info, call Bill Schmidt on 0419 138 995 Applications close Friday,
Join a supportive, forward-thinking team and help shape water
Visit gwmwater.org.au/careers or scan the QR code to apply or sign up to job alerts. Apply now Join our team
Engagement Coordinator – Traditional Owners and Strategy
term 2 years Applications close: Friday 10 July 2026
Water Service Operator - Wimmera (Warracknabeal)
close: Friday 10 July 2026
Wastewater Management Systems Officer Fixed term 12 months Applications close: Friday 10 July 2026
Graduate Treatment Planning Engineer Applications close: Friday 17 July 2026
Water Treatment Plant Operator
Senior Project Engineer
close: Friday 24 July 2026
GWMWater
People, Culture and Legal division on 1300 659 961 to ensure a fair and inclusive experience.
Youth rewarded for sporting spirit
Horsham District Football Netball League and Wimmera
award each playing round. The Spirit of
Layla Preston – HDFNL Taylors Lake netballer Layla Preston shows great sportsmanship, commitment and passion to her sport. If not studying, Layla will be at the courts regardless of what time of day it is. She is a great athlete, always giving her all as soon as she steps on the court, and is always respectful to umpires, team-mates and opposition. These qualities highlight why Layla was nominated 17-and-under captain this year. Layla is pictured with Horsham police officer and Taylors Lake netballer Bianca Kettle.
Chloe Stockdale – HDFNL
Alexandra Grant – HDFNL
Douglas Lunga – WFNL Nhill footballer Douglas Lunga, pictured with Nhill Senior Constable Hasler, displays a consistent commitment to teamwork, always encouraging those around him and contributing to a positive club culture. His conduct on and off the field demonstrates exceptional fair play, showing integrity in every contest. He also models strong respect for team-mates, opponents and officials, making him a standout ambassador for the club.
Eden Woodward – WFNL Nhill netballer Eden Woodward’s passion and dedication for netball is evident every time she steps on the court. She gives her all and is a crafty and clever defender. Her athleticism and height are both attributes to her success, as well as the way she reads the play. Eden always plays the game in the best of spirits, encouraging her team-mates, respecting the umpires and her opponents and exuding excitement in her team’s success. Eden is a valuable volunteer and umpire. She is pictured with Nhill Senior Constable Hasler.
Natimuk United netballer
Chloe Stockdale, pictured with Horsham Blue Ribbon co-ordinator Les Power, is a shining example of drive and commitment at Natimuk United. Her passion for the sport is evident in every practice and match, consistently pushing herself to improve and elevate her team’s performance. Chloe’s work ethic inspires her teammates as she demonstrates relentless determination and a positive attitude. Beyond the court, she actively supports her peers, fostering a sense of unity and encouragement within the team. Her commitment and leadership make her a vital asset to Natimuk United.
Josh Taylor is a standout role model in junior football, known for his unwavering dedication to the game and his team. His commitment to honing his skills and fostering a positive environment is evident during practices and matches, where he consistently encourages his team-mates to give their best. Josh’s leadership goes beyond his on-field performance; he takes the time to mentor younger players, sharing his knowledge and passion for the sport. He is pictured with Horsham Blue Ribbon Foundation co-ordinator Les Power.
Edenhope-Apsley netbal -
ler Alexandra Grant, pictured with Edenhope police officer
Sharlene Baldock, consistently demonstrates the spirit of the game each week. She plays with determination and enthusiasm and supports those around her. Whether it is encouraging team-mates, showing respect to opponents and umpires, or simply bringing positivity and kindness to every game, she represents everything the award stands for. Her actions, attitude and sportsmanship have made a positive impact on her team and club. She leads by example and reminds everyone what makes netball such a special game.
Josh Taylor – HDFNL
Natimuk United footballer
ACROSS THE GROUNDS: Photographer
KAREN REES visited several sporting matches across the weekend, including senior football clashes between Wimmera league’s Minyip-Murtoa and Southern Mallee Thunder and Horsham District league’s Laharum and Taylors Lake, and Laharum and Taylors Lake A Grade netball. Pictured in action are, clockwise from above: Laharum goaler Caitlin Jones-Story; Southern Mallee Thunder’s Jai Kennealy punches the ball; Laharum’s Pat Lattanzio tackles Taylors Lake’s Patrick Lindsey; Laharum’s Olivia Jones-Story; Southern Mallee Thunder’s Bailey Edwards tackles Jack Boschen, Minyip-Murtoa; Thunder’s Harry McLeod on the run; Laharum defender Courtney Taylor; Laker Kayla Kelm intercepts the ball; Taylors Lake’s Jayden Scott and Laharum’s Pat Lattanzio; and centre, Taylors Lake’s Brendan Healey.
arOUnD ThE LEaGUEs
Women’s grand final spot on the line
BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY
Aspot in the Wimmera Football Netball League senior women’s football grand final could be on the line this Sunday when Natimuk United hosts Minyip-Murtoa at Natimuk Showgrounds.
The Rams are coming off the upset of the season, earning their firstever win against previously undefeated Laharum by nine points in round six.
With the top two teams in the threeteam competition advancing directly to the grand final at the conclusion of the home-and-away season, Laharum appears all but certain to qualify for the premiership decider.
But the second spot is suddenly up for grabs, with Natimuk United now trailing Minyip-Murtoa by four premiership points and about 90 per cent.
To keep their dream of a grand final appearance in their debut season alive, the Rams must beat the Burras
on Sunday, beat Laharum again in round eight and hope the Demons beat the Burras in the final match of the season.
Key to Natimuk United’s hopes will be a formline of continued improvement.
The Rams lost to Minyip-Murtoa by 33 points in their first meeting in May, but showed upside in a 13-point loss in June.
In a blow to the Rams, Emma van Egmond – named their best player
in their most recent meeting with the Burras – will be unavailable for the rest of the season, but with the likes of Maddie Dempsey, Kellsie Turner and Kelly Dunn starring against Laharum, the team remains dangerous.
For the reigning premier Burras, a win will guarantee them a grand final spot alongside Laharum.
The team will turn to the likes of star player Mikaela Wright and leading goal kicker Rory Starick, who has goaled in three of the team’s four
games this season, to help get them across the line.
Juniors
Plenty of intrigue surrounds the under-15.5 girls competition, with all three teams recording two wins and two losses in the season so far.
Sunday’s game will see Horsham play a mixed Horsham and MinyipMurtoa side, with the winner guaranteed to finish atop the ladder.
Excitement for next month’s reunion of the former Netherby-Lorquon Football Club is growing, with a set of historic jumpers and other memorabilia set to form a comprehensive display.
Among the items on display at the August 29 reunion at Netherby Hall will be a series of jumpers from different periods of the club’s history.
A jumper worn by former player Ian Bone showcases the club’s colours from 1962 – the first season after Netherby and Lorquon amalgamated – to 1967.
A jumper belonging to former player Graham Launer, with vertical red, white and black panels in the style of St Kilda, shows the club’s playing colours thereafter.
A pre-merger jumper belonging to Errol Watson shows the former Netherby colours – black and white vertical stripes, in the style of Collingwood. Reunion organiser John Rethus said
he and other committee members were shocked by the amount of memorabilia donated for the event.
“The biggest surprise is the amount of memorabilia that has been handed to the committee,” he said.
“A 72-page book of the history of the club has been published and will be for sale at the reunion and after the event.”
Mr Rethus said registrations for the reunion had been strong.
“A good crowd is guaranteed as many have registered already,” he said.
“Richie Dodds will be the MC for the official program, with footballers and netballers from both Netherby and Lorquon as far back as 1951 registered for the event.
HISTORIC:
Former NetherbyLorquon footballer Graham Launer is pictured wearing the club’s final jumper, along with other examples of jumper designs from the club’s past. All will be on display a next month’s reunion at Netherby Hall.
“A first-class meal is organised and a marquee will be put up beside the hall, so room will not be a problem.”
People can view a Facebook page for the event at www.facebook.com/ events/1695228571834609.
People can contact Mr Rethus for more information by calling 0429 340 264 or emailing johnrethus49@ gmail.com.
Netball Victoria conducts talent identification at pathway competitions and tournaments, where talent scouts assess athletes to be considered for invitation.
Wimmera athletes have been invited to trial for either Netball Victoria’s 2027 Talent Academy, or Netball Victoria’s 2027 under-17 and under-19 state teams.
From the state titles, Horsham netballers Luella Burke, Jenna Lockhart and Malaya Willmore, who all represented Wimmera Mallee, have been invited.
From the association championships, the following netballers have been invited to trial: Wimmera Football Netball League: Ruby Bethune, Temika Greig, Neeve Roberston, Adele Tucker and Poppy White; Horsham District Football Netball League: Ivy Hofmaier, Ella Schultz and Ane Van Zyl.
Intriguing round of matches await in Mininera league
Following a league-wide break Mininera senior footballers will return to action on Saturday in a slate of intriguing matches.
Tatyoon and Ararat Eagles will fight to keep their ebbing finals hopes alive when they host Great Western and Hawkesdale-Macarthur respectively.
The Hawks won three of their first six games but dropped three of their past four – including a 124-point loss to Penshurst before the league bye – to slip to ninth place on the ladder.
Tatyoon is now only one ladder position ahead of Great Western, but will be hoping to show a gap still exists between the sides when they meet this weekend.
The Lions’ percentage of 36.64 is less than half of Tatyoon’s, but the Lions have played some of their best football for the season in recent weeks, with their form suggesting the result could be closer than many onlookers expect.
Both of Great Western’s wins –
29-point victories against both Moyston-Willaura and Ararat Eagles – came in the team’s past four games, while a 79-point loss to Penshurst in round eight was 45 points closer than Tatyoon’s loss to the Bombers two weeks later.
The Eagles are also fighting for their finals lives in the midst of a tumultuous season involving a police investigation into an alleged off-field assault involving a supporter.
Like Tatyoon, Ararat started the sea-
SATURDAY, JULY 11 @ 1pm
son strongly but has dropped three of its past four games, and a meeting with 8-2 Hawkesdale-Macarthur looms as a tough challenge.
Meanwhile, Moyston-Willaura will see this weekend’s meeting with the 1-9 SMW Rovers as likely its best chance to earn premiership points in 2026.
The Pumas are winless but have been competitive in patches, while the Bulldogs have lost seven straight games since their round-three win
over Great Western. Other games this weekend feature reigning premier Lismore-Derrinallum on the road against a resurgent Caramut in a topthree clash, Glenthompson-Dunkeld hosting Wickliffe-Lake Bolac and Woorndoo-Mortlake at home against Penshurst in another top-five encounter.
– Colin MacGillivray
Boost for Warriors
Stawell gave its senior football finals aspirations a boost on Saturday, pulling away from the visiting Warrack Eagles after quarter time to win by 45 points at Central Park.
The Warriors led the Eagles by only a kick at the first change, with a superb goal from deep in the forward pocket by Stawell forward Sunny Brazier an early highlight, while Sam Hanna provided an attacking target for the Eagles.
But from early in the second quarter the home side began to take control of the match, with Cody Driscoll finding Aiden Graveson for a strong mark in the goal square to start a run of three straight goals.
While the Eagles answered again through Hanna, a deft snap from Kyan Mellor consolidated the Warriors’ lead moments later.
Leading by 29 points at the long break, another six goals to three in the second half sealed an important 16.7 (103) to 8.10 (58) win for Stawell.
Leading the way were forwards Driscoll and Paul Summers, with the latter kicking seven while the former’s combativeness in the air and at ground level saw him kick three and set up numerous others.
Stawell’s Josh Fowkes put in a strong performance in the ruck, while Daniel Guccione was in top form across half-back.
For the Eagles, Sem Kuzamba fought an entertaining ruck duel with Fowkes, while Sam Hanna looked their most threatening forward and defender Matt Penny was named the
side’s top player. The win solidified fourth position on the ladder for the 7-3 Warriors, while the Eagles dropped to 4-6 and remain two games adrift of Nhill in the finals race.
The 45-point margin was the closest of the round, with Ararat, Southern Mallee Thunder and Horsham Saints each recording big wins at the weekend.
The Saints played a Sunday blockbuster against crosstown rival Horsham at Coughlin Park, but it was all one-way traffic as the home side dominated to win 19.15 (129) to 8.6 (54).
Rory Taggert finished with seven goals for the Saints, but it was Reid Kuller who earned best afield honours, while co-captain Mitch Martin was also prominent in the centre.
Leading the way for the Demons were Ben Janetzki and Zac Martin, with Chaz Smith the team’s lone multiple-goal scorer with two.
A match between the ladder’s top and bottom sides at Dimboola went as their ranking suggested it would, with visiting Ararat dominating the Roos to win 18.14 (122) to 5.3 (33).
Two goals in each of the second and third terms gave Dimboola something to hang its hat on, but the Rats were comfortably in control throughout, with coach Tom Williamson booting four goals, captain Tom Mills adding three, Jake Robinson dominating in the midfield and Naish McRoberts playing well across half-back.
Dimboola’s best included Andrew Moore, Ash Clugston, Riley McLaughlin and Tom O’Dwyer with three goals.
Southern Mallee Thunder’s win
over Minyip-Murtoa was also oneway traffic, with Bailey Edwards and Matt Lloyd combining for 11 goals in a 16.13 (109) to 7.5 (47) win.
Other standouts for the Thunder included Jai Kennealy, Simon Clugston, Haydn Drew and Kieran Delahunty, while the top players for the Burras were Jack Boschen, Lachlan Johns and Oscar Gawith.
The Thunder will now begin preparing for an important top-three clash this weekend against Horsham Saints, with the Saints able to claim top spot
on the ladder with a win while the Thunder could overtake the Saints for second if they claim victory.
Other matches will see Nhill hosting Minyip-Murtoa, Stawell at home against Horsham and Dimboola travelling to play Warrack Eagles, while ladder leader Ararat has a bye.
Finals fixtures announced
Wimmera Football Netball League announced its finals fixtures this week, with Horsham City Oval to host the league’s grand final for the first time
since 2022 on Saturday, September 19.
A qualifying final will be at ANZAC Park, Warracknabeal on Saturday, August 29; an elimination final is at Beulah Memorial Park on Sunday, August 30; the second semi final will be at Dimboola Recreation Reserve on Saturday, September 5; the first semi final is set for Central Park, Stawell on Sunday, September 6; and the preliminary final will be at Murtoa Recreation Reserve on Saturday, September 12.
Schneider turns match for Burras in final quarter win over Thunder
The fierceness of the competition belied the ladder positions of Minyip-Murtoa and Southern Mallee Thunder when the two sides met in a Wimmera league A Grade netball clash on Saturday.
The Burras and Thunder entered round 11 with one win and a draw each – the Thunder at the foot of the ladder and the Burras one rung above. Playing at home, Minyip-Murtoa trailed by a goal at quarter time but evened the scores at 28 apiece by the long break before earning a onegoal advantage heading into the final quarter.
After the Thunder scored the first
goal of the term to level the scores again, the Burras turned the match decisively in their favour with a run of four straight scores, all coming from goal attack Jenna Schneider.
Schneider was outstanding, scoring 26 times and grabbing numerous offensive rebounds to earn the Burras second chances.
Also instrumental were Johanna Griffiths, who moved from goal defence to wing defence in the second half and created numerous turnovers, while Hayley Reading excelled at wing attack and centre.
The Thunder continued to press the Burras, with goalie Phoebe Bigham
keeping them in the game, but were unable to draw closer than three goals after Minyip-Murtoa opened up a sixscore advantage halfway through the final quarter.
A vocal home crowd cheered the Burras’ 38-34 win, which moved them four premiership points clear of the wooden-spoon position.
The only other round 11 game decided by fewer than 10 goals was Stawell’s 53-45 win against Warrack Eagles at Central Park.
The Warriors maintained a narrow lead throughout the first three quarters but broke their shackles with a 16-goals-to-10 final term as Ayva
Mitchell finished with a season-high 47 goals.
Other top players for Stawell included versatile defender Lisa Considine and midcourter Jessie Newton, while the Eagles’ top players were goalie Nicola Clyne, 26 goals, and Jordan Heller at goal keeper.
Horsham Saints dominated rival Horsham after quarter time to win 85-58 in their Sunday meeting at Coughlin Park.
Saints captain Ashlee Grace was at her dynamic best in the midcourt, while Jorja Clode scored an incredible 69 goals from 74 attempts.
Dimboola accounted for Ararat with
a strong second half on Saturday, winning 50-39 thanks to strong defensive performances from Stephanie Glover and Bridget Dorrington.
The Rats’ top players were goal keeper Bridie Price and goal attack Laney McLoughlan with 25 goals. This weekend will see the Roos looking to shore up third spot on the ladder in a road game against Warrack Eagles, with Stawell hosting Horsham, Minyip-Murtoa looking to make it two wins in a row at Nhill and Southern Mallee Thunder hosting Horsham Saints in a match of top against bottom on the ladder.
SAINT FLIES: Horsham Saints’ Judd Wright flies for a mark in Sunday’s clash against crosstown rival Horsham at Coughlin Park. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
hOrshaM DisTriCT LEaGUE
Fourth-straight premiership in sight
Reigning
Horsham District
senior football premier Harrow-Balmoral strengthened its case as a favourite to win a fourthstraight flag on Saturday, defeating finals aspirant Kaniva-Leeor United at Harrow.
The match was tight early, with the visiting Cougars matching the Roos’ physicality in the contest – the likes of Billy King and Lachlan Bates coming to the fore for Kaniva-Leeor, while coach Jai Thompson and hard nut Will Plush shone for Harrow-Balmoral.
After a low-scoring first term in which both teams struggled to capitalise on their opportunities – the Roos scoring 2.2 and the visitors kicking 1.5 – the match began to open up in the second quarter.
Two quick goals to Harrow-Balmoral’s Cody Deutscher and Michael Close were answered by a major from Kaniva-Leeor’s Josh Clayton, but it became apparent the Roos had more firepower as Deutscher and Close again goaled in succession to help their side to a 20-point lead by half time.
The Cougars continued to press in the third term, holding the Roos goalless and adding two of their own to narrow the gap to nine points at the last change, but the home side finished strongly with four goals to one in the last to record an important 11.8 (74) to 6.10 (46) victory.
Leading the charge for the Roos were Thompson and co-captain Will Burbury, with Deutscher kicking four majors in a game-breaking performance and Mitch Grant lively across half-forward.
For the Cougars, ruckman Hamish Bennett was strong in the wet, with the big bodies of Clayton and Blake Dodson also providing a physical presence around the ground.
Elsewhere, Pimpinio earned an important four points against Edenhope-Apsley, triumphing 11.13 (79) to 7.13 (55) in a difficult road game.
The Saints showed plenty of fight after being on the wrong end of a discouraging 33-10 first quarter, working their way back to within three goals of the visiting Tigers.
But a long-range set shot from Brock Hamerston early in the third term seemingly took the wind out of the Saints’ sails, with Adam Westley and Isaac Thomas subsequently hitting the scoreboard to help build a 33-point lead for their side at the final change.
The Tigers were led by Hamerston, co-coach Matt Rosier and young gun
Austin Simpson, while Billy Cameron, Corey Williams and Luke Cooper stood up for the Saints.
Pimpinio will now turn its attention to a vital home game this weekend against rival Laharum, with the Demons coming off a thumping 28.15 (183) to 3.2 (20) win against Taylors Lake.
Laharum wasted no time establishing its dominance with six goals to one in the first term, and kept its foot on the throttle throughout as full forward Jack Fenner booted a season-high 13 majors to take a commanding 21-goal lead on the league goal-kicking table with 64 for the year so far.
Other standouts for Laharum includ-
Roos within striking distance
Harrow-Balmoral’s A Grade netball resurgence continued on Saturday, with the Roos beating top-five side Kaniva-Leeor United to move within striking distance of a Horsham District league finals berth.
The Roos won only one of their first seven games this season, but have now won four games in a row after Saturday’s nail-biting 40-38 win against the Cougars.
The contest was close throughout, with Harrow-Balmoral leading by a goal at quarter time and trailing by a goal at the half before scores were locked at 28 apiece entering the final term.
Desperate and scrappy play saw both sides adding only one goal to their tally in the first five minutes of the fourth quarter, but the Roos were effectively able to target goal attack Megan Little under the ring as they opened up a narrow advantage halfway through the term.
The Cougars fought back through captain Abby Croft, who traded goals with Little for much of the last term.
With Harrow-Balmoral leading by a goal and less than two minutes remaining, a pair of on-court collisions resulted in Kaniva-Leeor turnovers,
denying the Cougars chances to even the scores.
The Roos pushed forward for one final score from Burns, and were lining up another shot when the final siren sounded.
Harrow-Balmoral is now just four premiership points and about 12 percentage points behind the fifth-placed Cougars, with sixth-placed Pimpinio also remaining in the thick of the finals race despite a 64-52 loss to Edenhope-Apsley at the weekend.
The Saints trailed the Tigers by two goals at quarter time but leaned on goalie Dee Dee Lambert as they scored 16 goals in the second quarter, 17 in the third and 21 in the last.
Hannah Magasanik was also outstanding for the Saints in the midcourt, while Mikayla Dumesny and Tahlia Thompson put in another strong showing in goals for the Tigers in what was a high-scoring match.
Rupanyup played a strong second quarter but was unable to overcome Natimuk United at Natimuk, losing 45-36.
The Panthers scored only six goals in the first quarter and trailed by five scores, but won the second term 13-9 to get themselves back in the contest.
But the Rams were too strong across the court, with Danielle Hanson solidifying the middle and Beth Sudholz locking down Rupanyup goalie Phoebe Downer in the second half.
Laharum was far too strong for Taylors Lake at home, winning 73-33 thanks to a 45-goal performance from shooter Caitlin Jones-Story.
Olivia Jones-Story was also dominant in the centre despite the best efforts of Laker Kayla Kelm.
Noradjuha-Quantong also posted a big win, defeating Swifts 78-35 at North Park.
The defensive pairing of Leah Mirtschin and Rachel Leader allowed Baggies goalie Jade Ralph few opportunities, while Bomber Jess Leader went head to head with Kathryn Boag in the centre.
This weekend the Bombers will put Harrow-Balmoral’s finals aspirations to the test at Horsham City Oval, while Kaniva-Leeor United hosts Natimuk United in what shapes as a must-win game for the Cougars.
Rupanyup is at home against Edenhope-Apsley, Pimpinio will host Laharum and Kalkee is on the road against Taylors Lake.
Rupanyup picked up its fourth win of the season against Natimuk United on Saturday, holding on for an 8.11 (59) to 6.9 (45) final result after leading by 30 points at three-quarter time.
The Rams stormed home with 10 scoring shots to one in the last quarter, but inaccuracy and a hefty deficit doomed them despite strong performances from the likes of Will Kennedy, Mitch Clarke, Ricci Marks, Kaiden Sudholz and Kyah Wilkinson.
For the Panthers, defender Daniel Weetra excelled again, but George Wilks grabbed best afield honours while Alby Kingston, Sam Kamstra, Jimmy Finnigan and Marlon Motlop were all among the top players.
Noradjuha-Quantong steadied the ship after a second-quarter fightback from Swifts to win 14.12 (96) to 7.6 (48) at Central Park.
The Baggies kicked five goals to three in the second term to get themselves back in the contest after trailing by 20 points at quarter time, but managed only one more major for the rest of the game.
ed Josh Hutchinson with three goals and Shannon Argall in the ruck, while Patrick Lindsey, Jayden Scott and Ryan Gebert were among the Lakers’ best.
Laharum now sits second on the ladder with a 9-2 record, while Pimpinio is fifth at 7-4.
But while the Tigers have a onegame lead over sixth-placed Kalkee, they could slip out of the top five with a loss to Laharum and a Kalkee victory against Taylors Lake.
The Kees are coming off a bye and should be fresh for the clash, which could net them a significant percentage boost if they emulate Laharum’s example.
Wade Francis, Riley Dunlop, Declan Phyland and Nigel Kelly were among the Bombers’ best, while veterans Ben Martin and Scott Carey led the way for the Baggies.
The Bombers will host Harrow-Balmoral this weekend at Horsham City Oval, with the playing surface at Quantong Recreation Reserve recovering from wet weather.
The day will also see the Bombers celebrate the 50-year anniversary of Noradjuha’s premiership four-peat in the 1970s, as well as its 1966 and 1956 premiership sides.
Other games this weekend see Kaniva-Leeor United host Natimuk United, Rupanyup welcoming Edenhope-Apsley, Taylors Lake at home to Kalkee and Laharum travelling to play Pimpinio.
IN CONTROL: Laharum’s Robbie Miller clears Taylors Lake’s Ryan Gebert during the Demons’ thumping of the Lakers 28.15 (183) to 3.2 (20) on Saturday. Picture: KAREN LEES
ON TARGET: Caitlin Jones-Story contributed 45 goals to her team’s tally on Saturday against Taylors Lake. Picture: KAREN REES
Wimmera Kart Club member and 2025 AAA Local Athlete of the Year
recipient Robbie Turmine has continued his impressive 2026 racing campaign, claiming the prestigious South Australian Black Plate at Mount Gambier last month.
Competing against a strong field of South Australian and interstate drivers, Turmine made his intentions clear from the outset.
He set the pace during the Saturday morning practice sessions before carrying that form into qualifying, where he secured pole position by just two-hundredths of a second.
Starting from the front of the grid, Turmine made a strong getaway in the opening heat and became embroiled in a thrilling three-way battle for the lead.
The trio crossed the finish line separated by less than half a second.
Challenging track conditions greeted drivers the following day, with dew leaving the circuit slippery and demanding.
Despite the difficult conditions, Turmine again proved his class, taking another heat win against the highly competitive field.
His consistency continued throughout the remaining qualifying heat, where he delivered another faultless performance, leading from the green flag to the chequered flag to secure a front-row start for the 26-lap final.
After making final adjustments to
his kart, Turmine lined up for the championship-deciding race.
As they had throughout the weekend, the leading trio quickly broke away from the chasing pack, producing an exciting contest for spectators.
Displaying maturity and composure, Turmine carefully managed tyre wear to suit the changing track conditions.
Despite late pressure from Mount Gambier drivers, he held his lead to claim victory, while also recording the fastest lap of the race.
The win earned Turmine his first South Australian Black Plate and another significant milestone in his racing career.
The victory continues a strong run of form for the Wimmera driver, following several recent podium finishes, including a win at Hamilton in late May during the previous round of the Victorian Country Series.
Attention now turns to the next round of the Victorian Country Series, which will be at Dooen Raceway in mid-August.
More than 200 competitors are expected to attend, giving local motorsport fans the opportunity to witness some of the state’s best grassroots kart racers, including multiple state and national championship winners.
People can find event information and updates on Wimmera Kart Club’s social media channels. – Bronwyn Hastings
Wicket upgrade
Horsham Rural City Council will use a $7222 grant from the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund to upgrade the synthetic wicket at Dudley Cornell Park’s second oval.
The project will replace an existing narrow and deteriorated wicket and concrete base with a new synthetic playing surface built to current standards.
Mayor Brian Klowss said the new 28m-by2.8m pitch would create a safer, more consistent and fit-for-purpose facility for junior, senior and community cricket.
“The existing synthetic wicket at Dudley Cornell oval two is narrow and in poor condition, which limits the quality of play and ability to schedule matches and training,” he said.
“Renewing the wicket will deliver a widened, appropriately lined playing surface that meets modern standards and provides a consistent and safe environment for participants.”
With Dudley Cornell oval two hosting junior cricket and Woolworths Cricket Blast programs, Cr Klowss said it played an important role in introducing young people to the game.
He said the improved surface would enhance the experience of young cricketers and increase the oval’s capacity to host matches, training and major events.
“This upgrade will significantly improve the experience for young players and help the Colts Cricket Club continue to grow its junior programs,” he said.
“It will also provide greater flexibility for competition scheduling and an additional reliable synthetic wicket during key events like junior country week, particularly when wet weather impacts turf pitches.”
The council will co-fund the project with a contribution of $8496 and manage the works.
Volleyball gratitude Turmine continues strong run of form
Keep you MOVING
Volleyball Horsham is celebrating its 50th anniversary this weekend with a formal event to recognise the association’s growth. The anniversary dinner includes announcements of the top 50 male and female players, teams of the half century, 50 great victories and the launch of a 50th anniversary book. Volleyball Horsham president David Berry has written the following letter to the volleyball community.
I am writing this letter to the Horsham community to express my sincerest appreciation and gratitude to you all for your tremendous support over the past 50 years.
If it wasn’t for you and your generations of supporters, Volleyball Horsham would not be in the position it is today – an association respected and admired from right across the state and dare I say nationally.
Volleyball Horsham, you have had your share of ups and downs over the journey.
of young talent the opportunity to shine on the state and national stage.
You weren’t content with just sitting back and waiting for things to happen. You weren’t afraid to face challenges head on and never more so than when you shook the foundations of state league to the core by entering teams into state league.
You had to find your own opponents who were prepared to travel to Horsham to play against you, but you did and pretty soon those in the Melbourne volleyball ivory tower had no choice but to get on board.
Even today those metro-centric teams struggle to get it, as they constantly put forward excuses not to travel past the lights at Melton.
You even shook the hell out of the state team program, introducing state teams from the western regions, in order to give those athletes and their parents a more realistic program they could support.
If you’ve hit hard on the footy field or leapt just a bit too high on the netball court...
Starting as a social outlet for teams representing work places, mums and youngsters from schools, to one of the powerhouse associations in regional Victoria, you have endured and should be applauded for constantly evolving to meet the challenges of the day.
I remember when I first met you as a kid fresh out of high school. I was lucky to come from an established association. I was a little fish in a big pond, and all of a sudden I became one of the big fish, as together, we built an ageing competition into a vibrant, energetic association where youngsters took the baton and ran with it.
It was through these youngsters that volleyball in Horsham was put on the map, both statewide and nationally.
As an association you were fortunate to be represented on television via the Lightning Spike, and then in the build up to the 2000 Olympics, on the biggest stage of all, when you hosted two international matches featuring Australian men’s team the Volleyroos, against New Zealand and Japan.
I have constantly been amazed throughout the past 25 years of how you have given generations
It got to the stage where interstate teams were sick of getting beaten by your west teams, and so the national body cut you from the program. What you put in place even serves as a template for the program, but unfortunately is not taken notice of.
You did all of this without a ‘home’. Just imagine what you really could have achieved if given the same facilities as other indoor sports. It is only hoped that those in the corridors of city hall can stop sitting on their hands, bite the bullet and build the facility that you and others like you deserve, and have deserved for many years.
You have been able to educate so many supporters over the journey, not just on the intricacies of the sport, but life as well.
Those youngsters are the ones who are well prepared for what the future holds, if and when their time comes.
Come Saturday, you can sit back and relax as you celebrate 50 great years – 50 years of wonderful achievements, great people and great support for a sport that has well and truly cemented its place in the Wimmera sporting landscape.
PODIUM FINISH: Wimmera kart racer Robbie Turmine, centre, achieved his first South Australian Black Plate title at Mount Gambier.
Mixed results in top competition
BY SIMON KING
Six players and one coach from the Wimmera Hockey Association participated in the Victorian Junior State Championships in Melbourne at the weekend.
Representing the North West Lighting zone, along with others from the Sunraysia, North Central, Hockey Central Vic, and Goulburn Valley hockey associations, the players competed alongside and against some of the best underage hockey players in the state.
Under-14 girls
Horsham’s Holly Di Pietro lined up with the Lightning under-14 girls’ team, which enjoyed mixed results.
The team started the tournament confidently, drawing both of its games on Friday. Its first defeat came on Saturday morning against North West Metropolitan Tigers, who went on to top the pool and finish the weekend as runner-up.
The Lightning’s last three pool matches yielded victories over Gippsland Bulls and Wets Vic Eagles, and a tight one-goal loss to Western Wildcats.
The Lightning’s tournament concluded with a two-goal win in the fifth-place play-off against the Wildcats.
Under-14 boys
Under the guidance of Horsham coach Paul Mackereth, all three Wimmera representatives in the Lightning’s under-14 boys’ team were among the goals.
While the team began the tournament with three losses, Jonas Beattie scored its first goal of the weekend in its loss to the Sharks, James Mackereth scored its only goal in a loss to the Tigers, and Barrett Clark was one of six who scored in a big win against the Bulls.
After a loss and a draw in its final two pool matches, Lightning faced the Eagles again in the seventh-place play-off, and, as in the previous encounter, the match ended in a one-all draw.
James Mackereth finished the tournament on a positive note by scoring his second goal of the tournament in the game.
Under-16 girls
The Lightning’s under-16 girls’ team, featuring Hannah Dixon from
Yanac, started with a one-all draw with the Flames but then suffered losses to the Sharks and North West Tigers.
Lightning’s only win was a threegoal defeat of the Gippsland Bulls on Saturday afternoon.
The last two pool matches were losses to the Red Devils and Eagles, and in the seventh-place play-off Lightning suffered another narrow loss by just one goal to the Flames.
Wimmera association
The race to the Wimmera Hockey Association finals will resume this weekend after a full competition bye for the Junior State Championships, with several teams facing pivotal matches.
Yanac Tigers can regain top spot on the open ladder when they take on
Badminton skills clinics a success
Horsham Badminton Association delivered a junior badminton program to develop skills and provide a fun, inclusive environment where participants could stay active, build confidence, and form new friendships within their community.
It was part of a Regional Badminton Revitalisation Program, funded by Sports and Recreation Victoria and supported by Badminton Victoria.
Association secretary Caitlin Sawyer said 25 children participated in the program and were divided into three groups based on skill level – senior, intermediate and beginner.
“The senior group was led by a qualified coach and consisted of players who already had a strong understanding of badminton – sessions focused on further developing their skills, techniques and overall game knowledge,” she said.
“The intermediate group included participants who had already learned the basic skills of badminton. These players were continuing to develop their serving and rallying abilities while learning the rules and strategies of the game.
“The beginner group followed an adapted Shuttle Smash program, de-
signed for children with little or no badminton experience.”
Ms Sawyer said participants learnt fundamental skills during fun, gamebased activities.
“They learnt skills such as serving, rallying, and movement, with many showing significant improvement and confidently rallying by the end of the program,” she said.
Horsham Hurricanes, who are coming off a solid win last round on the synthetic surface at Dimboola, which they play well on. The Hurricanes are yet to reproduce that form on grass, and the Tigers will be well-rested after two weeks off and will go into the game as favourites.
The other open match will be an enthralling encounter as Nhill Rangers look to build on their first win of the season last round, when they take on Kaniva Cobras.
A draw when they met earlier in the season suggests the teams are evenly matched, but this is an opportunity for one team to gain an advantage over a fellow finals aspirant.
The closest match in the women’s competition has third playing fourth.
Kaniva is striving to keep in touch
with the top two, while Nhill Thunderbirds’ incentive is to increase the gap between themselves and those outside the top four.
Both had good wins in the last round against a lower-ranked team, but Kaniva should repeat its victory over this opponent from earlier this season.
Horsham Jets need a win to stay within reach of the top four, but will have to play at their best if it is to come this weekend against second-placed Yanac.
Warracknabeal takes on the undefeated competition leaders, Dimboola Roos, and it is unlikely they will earn their first win of 2026 at their expense.
Only eight points separate the top five teams in the under-16 competition at the halfway point of the regular season, but even the current sixth-placed team is not out of contention yet.
Nhill Leopards need a win to ensure they stay on top of the ladder, but despite playing fourth-placed Kaniva Raiders, they are not assured of the points.
Warrack Revengers will eye off returning to the top of the ladder at the expense of the Dimboola Kangaroos, who need the win to jump back into the top four.
Horsham Bombers scored their first victory in the last round, but will have to string together multiple wins if they are to bridge the gap between themselves and the top four.
Taking on Yanac Warriors this week will be a big challenge, but it is a game they need to win if they have ambitions of playing finals this year.
“The senior and intermediate groups were part of the junior badminton program, providing the next stage of development for players who had progressed from the Shuttle Smash program and were continuing to build their badminton skills and game knowledge.
“This was our second year running this program, so far it has been a success, so we hope to run it again in the future.”
REPRESENTATIVES: Wimmera hockey representatives at the Victorian Junior State Championships, from left, Jonas Beattie, Kaniva, James Mackereth, Horsham, Barrett Clark, Nhill, Hannah Dixon, Yanac, Holly Di Pietro, Horsham, and coach Paul Mackereth, Horsham.
Picture: Rachel Clark
FUN: Shuttle Smash coach Carolyn Beggs with participants at the Horsham clinic.
Vol. 29 No. 2
July 8, 2026
Laharum spearhead Jack Fenner clamps onto the ball in front of Taylors Lake’s Thomas Clugston during a powerful 13-goal display on a soggy Cameron Oval at Laharum on Saturday. Fenner’s haul helped secure a 168-point win over the Lakers. Fenner leads the HDFNL goal-kicking tally with 64 goals. Story, page 37. Picture: KAREN REES
