The Weekly Advertiser – Wednesday, March 4, 2026

Rebuilding

BY LAUREN HENRY

Harrow-Balmoral Football

Netball Club has broken its silence following a series of incidents – some proven, some alleged – involving club members in the past decade.

An ABC podcast ‘Hometown Boys’ about the 2016 rape of a Balmoral woman and ensuing court trials, guilty verdicts, and response from the town, followed by an ABC online article detailing allegations of further incidents of rape, assault and drink-spiking, have put the spotlight on the Southern Roos in the past month.

Following the ABC reports, Horsham District Football Netball League board released a statement on Thursday, stating it was committed to ‘promoting safe, inclusive and respectful environments across all affiliated clubs’.

The HBFNC committee had declined to comment to the ABC, but yesterday issued a written response to questions from The Weekly Advertiser

The opening line of the statement read: “Harrow-Balmoral Football Netball Club acknowledges the events that occurred in 2016 involving a player of our club at that time. We reiterate clearly and unequivocally that we do not tolerate behaviour of this nature.”

In its statement, the HDFNL board reaffirmed its ‘strong and ongoing commitments to the Communities of Respect and Equality Alliance, CoRE Alliance’.

The CoRE Alliance, a Women’s Health Grampians program, is a partnership of organisations, businesses, clubs and groups who share ‘a vision for safe, equal and respectful communities in the Grampians region’.

CoRE members commit to the CoRE

strategy to prevent violence against women and children, guiding ‘individual organisations and collective work fostering communities of respect, equality and preventing violence against women’.

The alliance has 155 members across the Grampians region, including the HDFNL, and four of its clubs – Harrow-Balmoral; Laharum; NoradjuhaQuantong and Pimpinio.

HBFNC’s statement addressed questions about its commitment to the alliance:

“We recognise that meaningful cultural change requires time, reflection, strong leadership, and sustained effort.

“We are committed to continuous improvement and to creating an environment where all members feel safe, supported and empowered to voice their concerns.

“As a member of the CoRE Alliance,

we are determined to actively uphold and demonstrate the values of respect, equality, and accountability in everything we do.

“Our priority remains fostering a safe, equal, and respectful environment for all players, members, and our broader community.”

The HDFNL board said the league was committed to ongoing learning, reflection and practical action to prevent gendered violence and advance gender equality.

“We recognise that cultural change takes time, strong leadership and consistent effort, and we are dedicated to playing our role in that,” the statement read.

“Sporting clubs are central to community life. They shape attitudes, model behaviours and influence the next generation.

“The HDFNL stands ready to sup-

port all clubs in building respectful cultures, implementing clear standards of behaviour and promoting zero tolerance for violence, discrimination and disrespect.”

The board also acknowledged ‘the women and men who shared their lived experience of violence and harm’.

“In rural and regional communities, speaking up can be particularly difficult. We commend those who do so in the hope of creating safer pathways for others and strengthening accountability across community settings,” the statement read.

The board encouraged clubs to seek guidance, resources and support in strengthening respectful club culture – offering to work alongside them to provide practical assistance and connections to appropriate services.

Continued page 3

Record rain halts events

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Severe rain and storms at the weekend impacted the Wimmera’s community events and farmers’ outlooks – the autumn break simultaneously bringing trepidation and delight.

An average Wimmera February brings about 16 millimetres of rain – over the weekend 157.6 millimetres was measured at Horsham Aerodrome, the third highest received in the state behind Ouyen’s 196.6mm and Sea Lake’s 184.3mm.

The State Emergency Service issued a watch and act message on Friday evening for Horsham, Warracknabeal, Maryborough and surrounds, where flash-flooding, building damage and fallen power lines were likely.

In the 30 minutes to 7.30pm on Friday, 42.4mm was recorded at Horsham; in the 30 minutes to 8.36pm, 34.2mm was recorded at Kellalac; and 27.4mm at both Edenhope Airport in the 30 minutes to 8.18pm, and Longerenong in the 60 minutes to 8.12pm.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued a warning for Mallee and parts of Northern Country, Wimmera and North Central forecast districts on Sunday for intense rainfall that could lead to flash-flooding, predicting six-hourly rainfall totals between 40mm and 60mm and 24-hourly rainfall totals between 80mm and 100mm.

Buloke Shire Council set up sandbagging stations at Donald and Culgoa, while Hindmarsh Shire Council made provisions for sandbagging at Dimboola, and closed its transfer stations.

Between Friday and 2pm on Monday, VICSES volunteers across the Grampians region responded to 74 requests for assistance, RFAs; 32 for trees down, 20 for building damage and 14 for flood.

Horsham’s unit responded to 22 RFAs, Dimboola responded to 10, and a visiting taskforce of 19 volunteers from across the state supported units across the area.

Wimmera Machinery Field Days cancelled its first day of events, the site deemed too waterlogged to safely accommodate the public.

Field days manager Vanessa Lenehan said as water was pumped from the site, arrangements were made for attendees’ convenience.

“In the interest of public safety, we made the call to not open to the public on Tuesday, just to allow us another day to get those pumps go-

ing, get the drainage happening and make a bit more of a plan of how to get everyone onsite,” she said.

“It’s been a huge effort this time around – I don’t think we’ve ever had a year that’s been this wet, even 2011 wasn’t this wet.

“We’ve just had another layer of complexity to deal with, so it’ll be really great if people can get behind us and support us.”

Mrs Lenehan said it was a difficult decision to cancel Tuesday’s events.

“We see all the work the exhibitors do trying to get here and get their sites set up,” she said.

“We know they 100 per cent rely on the public coming through the gates, so hopefully everyone will get behind the field days and come out today, Wednesday, and tomorrow and really support those exhibitors.

“Our hours today will be extended from 8.30am to 7pm, so if anyone wants to hang around a little bit longer to make up for lost time on Tuesday, they can.

“We just need everyone to come on board and give those businesses a big boost.”

The field days committee announced yesterday people could park on-site, rather than using a

planned shuttle bus from Dooen’s golf club.

Autumn break

The bureau defines the Wimmera’s autumn break as at least 15mm of rainfall over three days around the start of the winter cropping season.

Lawloit farmer John Bennett told Country Today he received about 80mm of rain over the weekend.

“A tremendous rain, and I’m absolutely game to call it – the autumn break,” he said.

“We weren’t really game to sow before the rain, because it is a little bit early.

“We’ve got winter wheat in our programs, and we really needed to get 50mm to be confident we’d get that through.

“I think now we can get that in the ground, and it will still be successful.”

Mr Bennett said although he would not sow canola until the first week of April, he would sow vetch further east.

“We’ll certainly sow vetch north of Horsham, at Murra Warra, we’ve had really good rain there,” he said.

“And we’ll also sow some pasture for feed back around Nhill.”

Mr Bennett said some of his best years for livestock have started

with ‘a couple of inches’ of rain at the start of March.

“The future is a clean slate, obviously, but I think we’ve got a very good chance of the pasture persisting now and not dying,” he said.

“Sheep aren’t the main production area in our business, but we take them seriously. There are a few sheep running around here, and I’m so glad for all those people that actually fed livestock for 18 months through the last two years – that was pretty tough going.

“Hopefully some of these livestock areas have actually received a good early break.”

Patchewollock farmer Simon Grigg said he’d had about 140mm of rain during the week.

“There’s a lot of places that have had more, but I think from Mildura, right down to Birchip, over to Swan Hill, I think it’s been pretty similar,” he said.

“There’s no doubt about it being the autumn break – it’s an absolute magnificent break. We haven’t had this for a long, long time.

“And even though it’s still early –it’s another four to six weeks before we start cropping – it gives us time to prepare the ground for cropping and it’s absolutely ideal.”

‘Not unique’ to Southern Roos

From page 1

Women’s Health Grampians chief executive Jennie Courtney said CoRE Alliance consultants had spoken to HBFNC representatives in recent weeks and it was ‘positive they have expressed an interest in re-engaging with CoRE’.

“Conversations are ongoing about what that will look like – our training is tailored to the needs of individual clubs,” she said.

“We would note that while Harrow-Balmoral is currently under the spotlight, the gendered violence and associated fallout described in the podcast is not unique to this club or this region.

“Driven by gender inequality, gendered violence exists everywhere, from the halls of Parliament to the smallest country club. It is often handled poorly, both at local and systemic levels.

“In this case the victim spoke up, but many others do not because the potential repercussions, some detailed in the podcast, are too great to bear.

“This is why the violence prevention work CoRE members do is so vital – cultural change is long-term work, and changing entrenched attitudes and biases takes time.

“CoRE provides the structure our region needs to work together and make sure the message is heard from multiple directions, including workplaces, sporting clubs, schools and community groups.”

Ms Courtney said ongoing CoRE Alliance membership was contingent on ‘engagement, action and commitment’, but WHG had procedures in place to exit members if their engagement fell away significantly, or organisations could also request to exit.

“We are willing to work with any organisation whose leadership demonstrates a genuine commitment to learning, self-reflection, and engaging with violence prevention and gender equality work, regardless of where they are at in their gendered violence prevention journey,” she said.

“We recognise that some organisations, particularly smaller volunteer-based organisations like football clubs, can face capacity and cultural issues that slow progress in their gender equity work.”

Ms Courtney said WHG had a sports-specific CoRE consultant, Vernetta Taylor, working in the Wimmera for the past 18 months.

“It has been great to see the response from the sector, with sporting clubs from all codes stepping up and committing to do what they can within their sphere of influence to create safe, respectful, inclusive spaces for all,” she said.

“Safe, respectful and inclusive environments grow out of strong leadership and a genuine desire to change things for the better. There are gender equity champions in every sports setting we have encountered.

“While they sometimes face significant barriers to making change, their presence, courage, and determination is inspiring. We support any efforts to amplify those voices.”

People affected by violence or assault can call The Orange Door on 1800 271 042; MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78; or 1800RESPECT.

• Editorial, page 11.

HRCC NEWS

Horsham Rural City Council is pleased to announce the official opening of the new netball pavilion at Horsham City Oval, celebrated at a ceremony on Wednesday 25 February.

Dignitaries and community representatives included Senator Jana Stewart, Labor Senator for Victoria; Mayor Cr Brian Klowss; HRCC Councillors; Chris Harrison, Barengi Gadjin Land Council (BGLC) Chair; Colin Gorton, BGLC On-Country Operations Manager; and BGLC Chief Financial Officer Chris Santagiuliana.

They gathered to mark the completion of the $3 million redevelopment, which strengthens the City Oval precinct and supports the future of community sport in the region.

It was also wonderful to see representatives from the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly, Netball Victoria, AFL Wimmera Mallee, and the Horsham Demons Football and Netball Club present to commemorate this exciting milestone.

Horsham-based company Locks Construction began work on the pavilion in November 2024. The project, supported by funding from Sport and Recreation Victoria, the Australian Government Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, and Horsham Rural City Council, was awarded locally, supporting the community while delivering an important facility.

The redevelopment delivers modern, safe and accessible facilities, including two upgraded netball courts with new lighting and spectator shelters. The pavilion provides female-friendly change facilities and amenities that meet current competition requirements, while also creating a flexible space that can be used by the broader community.

The pavilion will now be known as the Hocking Street Community Pavilion. As a Council-owned facility, it will be available for a wide range of community uses beyond netball, supporting clubs, events and local organisations across the region.

The completion of the project enhances the City Oval precinct and reinforces Council’s commitment to providing inclusive, future-focused infrastructure for the Horsham community.

TENDERS AND RFQ

Cr Ian Ross returns to Council

Council is pleased to announce that Cr Ian Ross has returned to his role as Councillor following a leave of absence for health reasons that began on 21 October 2025.

Cr Ross officially resumed his duties on Monday 16 February 2026, rejoining his fellow Councillors in serving the community.

Cr Ross expressed his sincere appreciation to colleagues and the community for their support during his absence.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Mayor Cr Brian Klowss for his leadership and commitment while I have been on leave. His dedication ensured the community continued to be well supported during a challenging time,” Cr Ross said.

“I am deeply grateful for the overwhelming support shown to me and my family. Taking time to focus on my health was made easier knowing Council was in capable hands - with the Mayor, Councillor group, CEO Gail Gatt and all Council staff continuing to deliver for our community. It gives me immense pride to be part of such a strong and supportive community.”

Mayor Cr Brian Klowss expressed his enthusiasm at Cr Ross returning to Council.

“It’s great to see Cr Ross back. Not only does he bring valuable experience, but it’s reassuring to see him back in good health and ready to return. We’ve all been looking forward to having him back with us,” said Cr Klowss.

Cr Ross attended his first Council meeting back as a Councillor on Monday 23 February.

Council looks forward to his continued contribution and service to the community.

An event celebrating International Women's Day will take place at the Horsham Town Hall Theatre on Tuesday 10 March from 12pm to 1.30pm. Tickets are available on the Horsham Town Hall website.

STAY UP TO DATE

Council's Community Events Grants Program helps not-forprofit groups in the municipality create local events for more engaged and healthy communities.

Eligible event organisers can apply for funding between $500 and $10,000 to make their event the best it can be.

To find out if you qualify, and for assistance in creating an appealing application, view the Grants page on the HRCC website, or attend a drop-in session.

Sessions will take place on:

• Wednesday 11 March Horsham Council Civic Centre, Roberts Ave Horsham 4pm-6pm

• Thursday 12 March Natimuk NC2, Main St Natimuk 10am-12noon

For a full list of requirements and considerations, visit the Community Grants page on the HRCC website or scan the QR code.

Transport Victoria is delivering a new roundabout and associated upgrades to the Henty Highway, Western Highway, Golf Course Road and Plumpton Road intersection in Horsham, to improve safety and traffic flow.

From early March, Plumpton Road will reopen, and Golf Course Road will close where it connects to the Western Highway and Plumpton Road to facilitate the next stage of works.

A detour will be in place via Jervis Street and King Drive. This arrangement is expected to be in place until mid-April.

For further information about the project, go to Transport Victoria website.

To get in touch:

Email: westernprojects@transport.vic.gov.au Call: 133 778

Entries rolling in for annual comp

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Final preparations for Sunday’s 49th annual Horsham Fishing Competition are nearly complete, with organisers anticipating nearperfect weather conditions.

President Bart Turgoose said entries for the competition had been steadily growing, with organisers tipping a slightly larger field than the 1100 who took part in 2025.

“Last year it was a 43-degree day with high winds and a total fire ban, but looking at the weather this year

it’s supposed to be about 25 degrees, which is really nice,” he said.

“It should be a fair bit better in terms of conditions than what it was last year, so we’re hoping that we might pick up a few more entries because of that.

“People can come have the full camping experience rather than just coming along, fishing and not being able to do much else.”

Mr Turgoose said heavy rain across the region at the weekend also boded well for the competition.

“It’s exciting that we’ve had that bit

of rain, and we’re getting some reports back that the fish are biting, which is good,” he said. “If it goes the way we think it will, it should make for a fun day.”

Entrants will line the banks of the Wimmera River on Sunday, with the competition boundaries stretching from Weir Park in the south-west to Riverside Road in the north-east.

A map outlining points of interest, including temporary toilets in place for competitors, is available on the competition’s website at www. horshamfishingcomp.com.au.

Mr Turgoose said people could also use the website to register for the competition, with discounts and prizes on offer for early entrants.

“In the last few days we’ve had a lot of people register,” he said.

“We’re encouraging people to register early, because all early registrations go into a draw to win vouchers to local pubs and bars, and it costs less when you register early as well.

“But for people who don’t register early and make the decision to come along after online registrations close on Thursday, they can find us down

Car and bike show ‘helping take the load off’

Wimmera Against Cancer in Kids will present a new award at its annual fundraising Horsham Car and Bike Show on Sunday, honouring the memory of trustee Keith Fischer. Organiser and WACK volunteer Simon Clark said the major trophy was for best in show.

“We’re having one major trophy in honour of trustee, Keith Fisher, who sadly passed away last year – it’s for the best overall car or bike of the show,” he said.

The show raises money for

WACK’s cause – helping families with everyday expenses while their children receive medical treatment.

“We’re helping five families at the minute with sick kids. Every dollar we raise goes to help them out with food vouchers, or fuel vouchers, to help pay a couple of bills, just the incidental things that help take the load off,” he said.

“Every little bit helps and it’s hard when you live in two lives.

“You’ve got stuff going on back here and you’re down in Melbourne

getting treatment, and backwards and forwards.

“Those little incidental things can make a massive difference. And that’s basically what WACK’s all about, helping take a little bit of the load.”

Mr Clark said WACK had raised more than $600,000 with the car and bike show, helping more than 70 families in the 25 years of the show.

He said show participants could exhibit one or several cars or bikes for a flat $10, with spectator entry by gold

coin donation. “We usually get well over 200 cars and bikes – I’ve got a fair few coming over from Mount Gambier this year, which will be nice to change things up,” he said.

“And there’s plenty of new cars that have been built around the area.

“So hopefully the weather gods will play nice and we’ll have a good turnout.”

The show is at May Park from 9am on Sunday.

at the Horsham Angling Club rooms near the soundshell and register up until midday on Sunday.”

Mr Turgoose said organisers were building towards the event’s 50th anniversary next year, and thanked entrants and sponsors for supporting the competition for five decades.

“We’ve had so many great sponsors jump on board again and want to be a part of it,” he said.

“We couldn’t have lasted this long without the terrific support we get from everyone in the community, especially our sponsors.”

New fishing mini expo

The Australian Fishing and Outdoors Expo will host a mini expo in Horsham on Saturday, offering anglers a chance to stock up ahead of Sunday’s Horsham Fishing Comp.

Although not affiliated with the fishing competition, expo organiser Peter Fedke said he thought the event would tie in well.

“People who come up for the comp often don’t have a lot to do on the Saturday, so we thought we’d do something,” he said.

Mr Fedke said the expo, which will be from 10am to 3pm at Horsham Greyhound Racing Club, would bring together a varied range of exhibitors.

“There’s a good mix of lure-makers and all sorts of weird and wonderful things,” he said.

“We’ll have the likes of the Victorian Fisheries Authority on hand to help answer people’s questions about what’s happening in the area on the fishing side of things.

“We’ll have a boat company there with a boat and a couple of other things on show, there will be camping gear, there’s fishing and tackle companies, we’ll have a jerky-maker – we try to cater for as much as we can.” With a $5 entry fee, Mr Fedke said organisers wanted to keep the expo affordable for everyone.

“It’s not designed to be a big moneymaker. As long as it covers its own costs, we’re happy,” he said.

“We’ll have the Lions club there running a barbecue and looking after the door. They help us out and it’s a good fundraiser for them as well.”

Mr Fedke said if the expo was a success, organisers would consider making it an annual event in the lead-up to the Horsham Fishing Comp. People can find more information at www.facebook.com/ events/1778256249496701.

Paediatric trailblazers

BY LAUREN HENRY

Ahighly regarded international expert in children and early years has called for the Wimmera to be trailblazers in a new Federal Government program to provide early intervention support.

Professor Sharon Goldfeld, a paediatrician and director of the Centre for Community Child Health – which is a department of the Royal Children’s Hospital and a research group of the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute – wholeheartedly threw her support behind the Wimmera’s By Five Early Years Initiative.

She suggested the By Five program be an ‘exemplar prototype’ to trial for a codesign model that could then be rolled out across Victoria, or possibly Australia.

Ms Goldfeld joined Associate Professor Gehan Roberts, Centre for Community Child Health deputy director, in Horsham last week for the official handover of the paediatric service to Grampians Health and Uniting Vic Tas, after By Five lost its State Government funding last year.

Thriving Kids is a new government initiative providing early intervention supports for children aged eight and younger with mild-to-moderate developmental delays or autism.

The Federal Government and all state and territory governments have agreed in principle to change National Disability Insurance Scheme access arrangements to support the rollout of Thriving Kids, which is set to start no later than October, 2026.

Ms Goldfeld said there was an urgency to put forward By Five, and the Wimmera, to be a part of the Thriving Kids program because the ‘policy window’ would have a timeframe.

“I would use them as trailblazers or exemplars to say we’ve got the really good bones here of actually doing this,” she said.

“With a little bit of resourcing and authorisation to do things differently – because without that it’s very difficult – you could actually go very quickly here because they’re so ready.

“ In my experience, I’ve seen lots of great things come up and then go down again.

“I think it’s exhausting for people. I think it’s demoralising for people and I’d like to think that that’s not what happens here.

“We’ve got a diamond in the rough, if you like, and it would be an incredible opportunity lost for this region to not think about what else this could be and what other greatness could come from it.

“Especially because you’ve already got so much community voice at the table –that is just real gold.”

Ms Goldfeld said the same children the Thriving Kids program was designed to

help was the same type of children that By Five had assisted in the past.

“Thriving Kids is really the opportunity and hopefully they might like to look here at what happens if you can play with the system a little bit and move it away from a kind of seek-and-refer system,” she said.

Ms Goldfeld questioned why the government was not continuing to support By Five when it funded so many other services.

“There’s governments already spending a lot of money on services, so we are just saying ‘hey, use them wisely’,” she said.

“It’s great to see in this instance, a notfor-profit or one of the non-government organisations stepping in as well, and that’s exactly what we should do – it’s a better use of the existing services and systems to actually meet the needs of children and families, and absolutely the government needs to be funding that in some way, shape, or form because it’s already funding things anyway.”

Ms Goldfeld said  while the Australian development census in 2024 showed declining rates of developmental vulnerability for the rest of the country, the Wimmera had improved.

“I don’t think we can put hand on heart and say it’s all causal, but it’s certainly not coincidental,” she said.

She said early intervention – before children started school – resulted in a decreasing number of children who had difficulties coming into school, which then flowed on to children staying engaged in school and finishing their education.

“That’s got much bigger implications than whether or not a kid saw a paediatrician at three years old,” she said.

“It’s an incredibly wise investment for this region to think about what it does for its particularly two to five year olds.

“If it wants kids to stay in the region, bring up their families and work, then invest in that.”

Mr Roberts said families were at risk of falling through the cracks if there were not programs in place like By Five paediatrician program.

He said previous systems were difficult for families in the Wimmera, who not only faced long wait lists, but when they did receive an appointment had to travel to Melbourne or Ballarat.

“There’ll be a whole bunch of families for who they just can’t do that, and then they’re off the waiting list and have to start again,” he said.

“Whereas what our model does is flips that around to say ‘let’s reach out to you where you live and help your local health professional to support you and look after you’.

“For families experiencing vulnerability and disadvantage, we try and get in there early to try and reduce that risk of those families and those kids falling through the cracks and missing out.

“Parenting is stressful at the best of times when everything’s lined up and going well, and just think if you’ve got a child with additional needs and you’re having to take time off to manage their challenges and then you’re on a waiting list, waiting and waiting – those challenges just amplifying.

“The welfare of communities is built on the welfare of the children of the generations coming up.”

Dangerous driver charged

Horsham Highway Patrol officers have charged a man with several traffic offences after he allegedly evaded police in Horsham last month.

Police allegedly observed a grey BMW sedan travelling at 80kmh in a 40kmh speed zone on Stawell Road, just before 6.30pm on February 21. Police intercepted the vehicle on McPherson Street and spoke with the driver, who allegedly refused to undertake a breath test before speeding off from officers.

The vehicle was followed through several streets, allegedly driving on the wrong side of the road and reaching speeds of up to 170kmh on the Western Highway before the pursuit was terminated. Police shared intelligence with their interstate counterparts in South Australia who later intercepted the vehicle at about 7.30pm.

The driver returned a positive preliminary breath test before being subjected to an evidentiary breath test, where he returned an alleged reading of 0.056.

The alleged driver, a 29-year-old Werribee man, presented to a police station on Friday where he was interviewed by investigators. He has been charged with a dozen offences including reckless conduct endangering serious injury, drive manner dangerous whilst pursued by police, refusing a preliminary breath test, two counts of excessive speed and other traffic offences.

The man was bailed to appear before Horsham Magistrates’ Court on April 13.

Fatality on Western Highway

A man died on Saturday following a two-vehicle collision on the Western Highway, west of Horsham.

A vehicle rear-ended a utility while travelling through roadworks on the highway at Vectis at about 10.20am.

The male driver of the rear vehicle, who was the sole occupant, died at the scene. The male driver of the ute, also the only occupant, was taken to hospital for observation.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision and will prepare a report for the coroner.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with CCTV or dashcam footage or information, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

let life’s aches, pains and injuries drag on –do something about it today.

You should ensure safety checks of all electrical switchboards, wiring and fittings are carried out in your rental properties every two years by a licensed electrician in accordance with section 4 of AS/NZS 3019:2022

Rental providers must ensure smoke alarms are correctly installed, in date, working and tested every 12 months. They must also make sure batteries are replaced as required. Call us for all your electrical needs!

Councils join call

BY LAUREN HENRY

Wimmera councils are among nine local governments to commission a report that calls for investment and due diligence from state and federal governments to ensure communities are prepared for energy, transmission and mining projects.

Councils, including Horsham, Northern Grampians, Yarriambiack, West Wimmera, Hindmarsh and Buloke, will consider the report titled ‘Resource Ready: NorthWestern Victoria Energy and Mining Impact and Readiness Strategy’ at future council meetings.

The report was commissioned to understand the type and nature of economic impacts the region could experience.

It identifies potential opportunities, including thousands of construction and ongoing jobs, as well as potential challenges such as further compounding the housing crisis, pressure on council-owned assets, limited investment in key services such as health, education and childcare, and impacts on farming.

Horsham Mayor Brian Klowss said the impacts of proposed projects cross multiple council boundaries made a co-ordinated, joint advocacy approach both practical and necessary.

“Major projects will only succeed if local voices are heard and community benefit schemes are used to invest in what the community needs,” he said.

“Horsham is ready to work with partners to ensure lasting positive outcomes.”

The alliance is calling on state and federal governments to fund the recommendations in the report and work collaboratively to ensure they are effectively implemented.

“We need clear commitments from state and federal governments to help us prepare for change,”

Yarriambiack Mayor Andrew McLean said.

“Yarriambiack is focused on making sure our community is prepared for the new opportunities that will arise.”

Buloke Mayor Graeme Milne said council was committed to making sure its community was ready for the opportunities and challenges the projects proposed.

“Proper planning and investment will help us build a stronger future together,” he said.

Hindmarsh Mayor Ron Ismay said the region deserved support to manage growth and protect what made each town unique.

“This report gives us the evidence we need to advocate for action from government that will genuinely benefit the community,” he said.

The report proposes 44 evidencebased actions across eight priority themes, including community readiness, infrastructure development, housing solutions, workforce planning, and agricultural sector protection.

Examples of the actions include formalising and standardising community benefit schemes across

the transmission, energy and mining projects to avoid duplication, maximise benefit and legacy, while also reducing administration overheads; prioritising and implementing a regional worker housing plan to bring together existing housing studies to identify key locations and forms of housing across the region to service the expected construction periods; and prioritising vocational training opportunities in occupations and skills required to support energy and mining projects by underwriting courses.

Another action is to prepare an agriculture impact assessment of mining and energy projects, taking into account the advantages and specialisations of the region and the potential for any cumulative impacts of major projects.

“Our council has strongly supported our farming community over the last three years in respect of their serious concerns about the renewables rollout,” Northern Grampians deputy Mayor Justine Hide said.

“We have also helped to initiate this impact and readiness strategy in order to meet our other obligations as a council to plan for major economic change.”

West Wimmera Mayor Tim Meyer said collaboration across councils meant they could address challenges such as the housing crisis and job creation together.

“We’re calling for governments to step up and invest in our communities,” he said.

Queen’s Guide awardees

Wimmera Girl Guides Lucy Schilling and Julia Hastings have earnt the organisation’s peak achievement award, presented in a ceremony at Melbourne’s Government House on Saturday.

In the annual event, Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC presented nine Girl Guides from across the state with their awards, which reflect their initiative, leadership, and deep commitment to their communities.

A Warracknabeal Girl Guide for about 10 years, the award took Ms Schilling about two-and-a-half years to complete. She said her award’s components might lead her to a career in school teaching or psychology.

“I enjoyed doing the service and activities around the community. I did some reading at the local primary school and I helped with working bees,” she said.

“I did a lot with the special development school, including riding horses and playing basketball.”

Horsham Girl Guide Ms Hastings, a member for 12 years, said she valued the broad experiences of the award.

“I liked planning lots of nights involving the junior and senior units,” she said.

“Gaining the award has increased my confidence in general, now I feel like it’s easier to approach things in life.”

The girls’ respective guide units will host celebrations to recognise their awards at a later date.

Perspective plays an interesting role

When an organisation, business or club faces challenges and testing times, how its leaders respond can show its true character and define its destiny.

There is no doubt Harrow-Balmoral Football Netball Club is one of those facing some tough times.

A community sporting club being the subject of a national ABC podcast and online articles detailing more serious allegations has hit the club’s reputation hard.

The podcast and reports were a heavy listen and read for everyone. It’s an uncomfortable subject to broach.

And, if I’m honest, as a regional newspaper editor, it has been an issue that I don’t want to be reporting on.

Footy and netball clubs are the beating heart of the communities in our region – and no-one wants to see their demise.

But if it’s a difficult subject for most to read about or listen to – just imagine what it is like for victims.

Imagine if the person making these

A personal attack

allegations was your sister, girlfriend, or God forbid, your daughter.

Unfortunately, Harrow-Balmoral is not alone. These types of acts of violence affect a lot of sporting clubs – both professionally and at a regional level.

And it’s not just sporting clubs, they happen in all walks of life – workplaces, social settings, homes, schools, churches, just about everywhere.

It is not necessarily the fault of an organisation as they can’t always be responsible for the behaviour and choices of their members or staff.

But it is how that organisation or club respond to the incidents that can be defining.

Harrow-Balmoral chose not to comment and share their voice in the ABC reporting, but I commend them in releasing a statement to The Weekly Advertiser.

While it didn’t address all points, it is a start in publicly responding and taking steps to create an environment of respect, equality and inclusivity.

The Wimmera Machinery Field Days committee has had three years now to get their heads around the issues of mineral sands mining, renewable energy projects and transmission lines on prime agricultural land.

The committee has seemingly not only chosen to not align themselves with the rest of us that are fighting for agriculture, each other, our industry, our neighbours, our communities and food and fibre security, but are encouraging, and inadvertently supporting, the very organisations that are trying to take our homes and businesses.

These mining, renewable and transmission companies use events like the field days to ‘tick off’ on their legal obligations to consult with the community, regardless of whether the community is for or against these projects.

These companies and their projects have no social license here.

Regional Victoria is under sustained attack from the Allan government.

We all need to be united to educate everyone across the nation.

The Wimmera Machinery Field Days committee has made a decision not to stand with us. I look at the pain, the worry and the amount of work people are having to do because of these companies that are invading us.

Any support to any of these companies, whether that be allowing them to exhibit, filling sub-contract works, or supplying spare parts, services or goods, I take as a personal attack on my industry and the people I love.

All of these projects, owned and operated by off shore companies, will have a negative impact on all communities and small businesses across our region, that rely on and are based on agriculture.

For as long as I can remember I have attended the field days – probably 100 times in the last 50 years.

They have been an annual family outing for three generations for us.

I will not be attending the field days this year. Paul Oxbrow Rupanyup

Support existing rail

Re: Letter to the Editor from Reid Mather, The Weekly Advertiser, February 25, about the future of rail freight under threat.

If the rail crossovers are removed at Sunshine station, it would mean all rail freight has to go via Geelong.

The extra freight costs, distance and time would place an extra cost on goods, more trucks on roads, slower freight times and extra pressure on the environment.

Bigger, heavier trucks are not the answer to Victoria’s freight requirements. Rail is clean, reliable and safe.

Premier Jacinta Allan, please support our

EDITORIAL

By Lauren Henry

Their re-engagement in Women’s Health Grampians’ Communities of Respect and Equality Alliance, CoRE Alliance, program is also a positive. While the CoRE Alliance program can’t ‘fix’ everything, putting the training and learning from the program is something that all sporting clubs, and their members, should seriously consider.

In a world where it is expected of clubs – even those in tiny, remote towns – to provide safe, respectful and inclusive environments, clubs have a greater accountability, and liability, than ever before.

Being a member of the CoRE Alliance also allows clubs to have access to the right advice when comes to

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

existing rail freight network and do not allow the crossover link at Sunshine station to be removed. The rail freight corridor is vital for western Victoria and Adelaide.

Lynda Jörgensen Horsham

Please reconsider

As sent to the Wimmera Machinery Field Days committee:

We write on behalf of our membership base following a recent Mine Free Wimmera Farms meeting, where considerable concern and disappointment was expressed regarding the committee’s decision to provide a platform for mining companies to exhibit at this year’s field days.

We acknowledge the long-standing charter of the Wimmera field days to foster innovation and development in primary production and agribusiness, and to provide information to the farming and wider community on matters that affect the region.

However, our members strongly believe that allowing mining companies to exhibit at what is fundamentally an agricultural event conflicts with the core purpose of supporting and promoting farming enterprises.

Across the Wimmera, communities are already facing significant pressure from multiple mining projects.

Many farming families feel overwhelmed by the scale and cumulative impacts of these developments.

In our members’ view, these projects threaten productive agricultural land, alter our landscape irreversibly and place unnecessary strain on the strong community bonds that have long underpinned this region.

By providing these companies with space at a respected agricultural event, the field days inadvertently offers them an opportunity to build what is called ‘social licence’– community acceptance that forms an important part of the broader government approval process.

For companies whose projects directly compete with and potentially displace agriculture, this is deeply concerning to those whose livelihoods depend on the land.

It is also important for the committee to be aware that many people are now considering not attending this agricultural event because of this decision.

Many of these individuals have been long term supporters of the Wimmera Machinery Field Days and value it not only as a social outing, but an opportunity to engage with exhibitors, build relationships, and support businesses – often resulting in meaningful sales and ongoing trade.

The potential loss of attendance from committed farming families should not be underestimated.

Some of our members will also be communicating with some of the major businesses that

dealing with incidents that can arise.

Advice from Women’s Health Grampians, WHG, is for clubs to be ‘proactive and prepared’ – have clear, up-to-date policies on child safety and complaints-handling; and clear codes of conduct that set expectations for members and volunteers.

“If an issue or allegation is raised, it’s important to document it carefully, prioritise the wellbeing of those impacted and follow established processes rather than trying to resolve matters informally,” WHG advised.

“Clubs are made up of volunteers and aren’t expected to manage serious matters alone. Where concerns involve potential criminal behaviour, child safety or significant misconduct, they should be referred to the appropriate external authorities or governing bodies for support and guidance.”

While many in the community may feel their club provides a safe environment, this is not always the case for everyone at a club.

Perspective plays an interesting role

they deal with that exhibit annually, explaining why they will not be attending.

Our members respectfully ask the committee to seriously reconsider this decision for the 2027 Wimmera Machincery Field Days.

We urge you to reflect on the long term implications for the identity of the event and the message that it sends to families who look to the field days as a celebration and defence of their industry.

Mine Free Wimmera Farms Executive committee

in people’s views and beliefs, and ‘putting the shoe on the other foot’ can sometimes help open one’s eyes to a subject that is not always black and white.

WHG has commended the victims for speaking out in the ABC reports, saying these type of stories need to be shared, and ‘we should be having conversations about why and how violence occurs, and we should be taking steps to prevent violence occurring in the first place’.

The two men from the club who were brave enough to speak out on the podcast also need to be commended. These are the types of men needed at clubs – men who are brave enough to speak out in difficult and uncomfortable circumstances, sometimes going against the wishes of the majority, for the greater good.

Let’s hope more sporting clubs join the CoRE Alliance, undertake the training and learn from others – I guarantee our clubs, and their members, will be better off for it.

Car, caravan rollover

A South Australian man and a woman were extricated from their Ford Territory after it rolled down an embankment with its caravan at Stawell on Monday morning.

The driver, a 50-year-old woman, was transported by road ambulance to Horsham hospital with upper body injuries in a stable condition. The passenger, a 49-year-old man, was treated at the scene for minor injuries.

An investigation is ongoing. Anyone who witnessed the crash or with dashcam or CCTV vision is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report at crimestoppersvic.com.

Progressive financial planning

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Early childhood stop-work action

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Wimmeraearly childhood teachers and educators were among 1500 people asking for better pay and conditions at the Australian Education Union’s stop-work rally in Melbourne on Thursday last week.

The second statewide stop-work in five months, it has not yet brought an outcome to 20 months of negotiations.

Horsham teacher Alice Clarke said the delays were taking a toll on the workforce.

“Participating in the rally alongside 1500 colleagues from across the state was validating in

“The toll the delays have taken on our workforce was visible. You could feel the energy, the frustration and anger was bringing us together –enough is enough”

– Alice Clarke

how upset and let down we are feeling about the unnecessarily long period this bargaining process has been taking,” she said.

“The toll the delays have taken on our workforce was visible. You could feel the energy, the frustration and anger was bringing us together – enough is enough.”

Ms Clarke said she felt the State Government’s statements of value and respect for their workforce were words and words only.

“With their inability to try to understand our log of claims and meet the professional needs of our sector, Victoria can no longer be known as ‘The Education State’ with the way Victorian early childhood teachers and educators are being disrespected,” she said.

“We are loyal to our communities and taking this action for our communities.”

AEU Early Childhood vice-president Cara Nightingale said the State Government’s inaction puts at risk the free kinder promise to Victorian parents with three and four-year-old children.

She said the government had promised 15 hours of free kindergarten for three-year-olds and 30 hours for four-year-olds and to deliver this, Victoria needed 11,000 more kindergarten teachers and educators.

“Attracting the next generation of kindergarten teachers and educators requires competitive pay and for their work to be valued,” she said.

“In addition, the Allan government must put in place measures that enable the retention of current kindergarten teachers and educators.

“The State Government needs to be much better at valuing kindergarten teachers and educators, if half of them regularly think about leaving the profession.”

Councillor Ross returns to duty

Cr Ian Ross has returned to his role as councillor at Horsham Rural City Council, following a leave of absence for health reasons.

The former mayor began the leave of absence in October last year but officially resumed his duties on February 16.

Cr Ross attended the council meeting on February 23, where Mayor Brian Klowss made special mention of his return, which was welcomed by a round of applause from councillors.

“It’s great to see Cr Ross back. Not only does he bring valuable experience, but it’s reassuring to see him back in good health and ready to return,” Cr Klowss said.

“We’ve all been looking forward to having him back with us.”

Cr Ross expressed his sincere appreciation to colleagues and the community for their support during his absence.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Mayor Brian Klowss for his leadership and commitment while I have been on leave. His dedication ensured the community continued to be well supported during a challenging time,” Cr Ross said.

“I am deeply grateful for the overwhelming support shown to me and my family.

“Taking time to focus on my health was made easier knowing council was in capable hands – with the mayor, councillor group, chief executive Gail Gatt and all council staff continuing to deliver for our community.

“It gives me immense pride to be part of such a strong and supportive community.”

Education key at renewables forum

Wimmera

Australians in Retirement

will host a renewable energy forum to help educate the community.

Titled ‘The truth about renewable energy in our world’ will be at Horsham RSL next Wednesday, March 11, from 10am to noon.

Four speakers are on the bill: former National Farmers Federation president David Jochinke, who has turbines on his farm at Murra Warra; Wimmera Southern Mallee Development Association chief executive Chris Sounness; Victorian Farmers Federation president Brett Hosking; and Stephanie Bashir, chief executive of Nexa Advisory.

Wimmera AIR chair Rick Walker said the venue could cater for only 150 people so it was a case of ‘first in, best dressed’.

Mr Walker said the forum had initially come about because of the untruths he had heard within Wimmera communities.

“It’s a concern that I’ve perceived in people that they’re frightened of renewable energy and they’re scared about the stuff that’s on television,” he said.

“Yes, okay, we don’t want people wandering around on our farms – I understand that. We don’t want them pinching our land – I understand that.

“There’s a lot of negatives. But I suspect that we’re going to get it anyway, so let’s look at the positives and see how we can live with this.”

Mr Walker said there was a lot of ‘fake news’

NATIMUK

FUNDRAISER:

Children’s author Janine Taylor will be selling her books in Horsham on March 13, and Dimboola on March 21, with $5 from every sale to be donated to Natimuk bushfire support.

“There’s a lot of negatives. But I suspect that we’re going to get it anyway, so let’s look at the positives and see how we can live with this”

– Rick Walker

around renewable energy. “ People make up stories – they hear something and there’s a rumor from here over there and it gets expanded,” he said.

Mr Walker said he was prepared for protestors and people who did not agree with renewable projects to make themselves known at the forum.

He said the Wimmera branch of the Association of Retirees, AIR, has 28 members in Horsham.

“The strength of our group here in Horsham was Lyal Wheaton –  what he came up with as forums, we had about six forums in the past,” he said.

“We’ve had people advising us on shares. We’ve had people advising on prostates. We’ve had lots of them, and Lyal organised all of those.

“We’re still a group and in the Wimmera we are a group which has a say, and that’s what we’re doing this for.”

Mr Walker said people who wanted to stay for lunch needed to RSVP to Horsham RSL, either by phoning 5382 5912 or visiting 36 McLachlan Street, Horsham.

Enquiries about the forum can be made to Mr Walker on 0428 824 113.

Author giving back to communities

Children’s author Janine Taylor will be in the Wimmera this month as she throws her support behind fundraising efforts supporting the fireaffected Natimuk community.

Ms Taylor last year launched her latest book titled ‘Our Camping Holiday at Dimboola’, detailing a family journey along the Western Highway visiting Ararat, Stawell, the Big Koala at Dadswells Bridge and Dimboola.

She will appear at Wimmera Outdoors in Horsham on Friday, March 13 to sell her books between 10am and 2pm, with $5 from every sale to be donated to Natimuk bushfire support.

The following weekend Ms Taylor will also appear at a Dimboola community market on Saturday, March 21, again donating $5 from the sale of each of her books.

She said she was unable to attend this weekend’s Natimuk Farmers Market but wanted to help a Wimmera community she had visited for many years.

“I was up there in December and did a market at Natimuk. I also did one at Haven, and I’ve got a friend who lives in Nhill so I did one there as well,” she said.

“We go up to Dimboola every year and I wrote the book about having a kids holiday up there.

“I can’t go to the market this weekend for the fundraiser that they’ve got, so I thought I’d do a couple of other fundraisers for them.”

Ms Taylor said she had a longstanding connection with Wimmera Outdoors owner Gary Jelly, who was happy to host her sale.

“I’ve known Gary for a long time because my husband used to do barefoot water skiing competitions,” she said.

“We’d go to Dimboola for 30-odd years to ski on the river there every Christmas and Easter.

“Gary used to be involved with the water skiing at the Horsham Kannamaroo festival on the river, so that’s how we met him and we’ve been friends for a long time.”

Ms Taylor said she was pleased to be able to help support regional communities.

“I do fundraisers with my books quite often. I did one for the Skipton community the other week and I raised $300 for them. They had bushfires at the same time as Natimuk,” she said.

“I like to give back with my books. My other book is a personal one about my husband and grandson and the memories they got to share before my husband passed away from cancer, so I do cancer fundraisers with that one.

“Hopefully we can get a few people along to purchase books and raise funds for the Natimuk community.”

People can find more information about Ms Taylor’s books online at www.tayloredtales. com.au.

– Colin MacGillivray

Kelly advocating

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Endometriosis advocate Kelly Kennett now considers herself lucky – she has a team of four specialists treating her condition – despite remaining undiagnosed for eight years and visiting more than a dozen specialists.

She is passionate about endometriosis education and advocacy, which she is promoting this month – the annual Endometriosis Awareness Month.

“There are so many women out there who are suffering in silence,” she said.

“Women who don’t have the courage to share their stories, who have been dismissed, who have been facing negligent care – and I think there are so many people out there still so uneducated about endometriosis.

“As someone who has been silenced for years, who has faced negligent care, who has gone through all of that, I am quite passionate to educate and bring awareness to it.”

As one in seven women who statistically suffer from the condition – and who take an average of seven to 10 years to be diagnosed – Mrs Kennett’s symptoms first presented when she was about 12 years old. She is now 23.

“We knew something was not quite right,” she said.

“I went to so many doctors and specialists, and at one point, I was being taken to hospital by ambulance every second day from Kaniva to Horsham, just to be told it was a bad period before being sent home.

“We ended up going to Ballarat where I saw a specialist for four years. I thought he was good –he was not. He actually ended up kicking me out of the room and asking my mum if my bleeding was actually real.

“It was at that point I lost all hope that I would ever get a diagnosis.”

By the age of 16, Mrs Kennett had been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome, but said she had a feeling it was endometriosis.

“I knew something was really wrong, I was in pain and fatigued – some days I couldn’t get out of bed,” she said.

“At that point it was already starting to take over my life. I was hospitalised again before I was recommended a new specialist.”

Even with private health insurance, Mrs Kennett faced a two-year wait.

“I was so nervous to see him – it was nervewracking – but I walked out feeling so heard, so validated, and the next day I was in for emergency surgery,” she said.

“I woke up to the words: ‘Kelly, it wasn’t all in your head, we found endometriosis’.

“So even being groggy and out of it, to hear those words was validation.

“I just remember sobbing my eyes out – I finally knew what was going on.”

Diagnosed at 20, Mrs Kennett’s was a complex case. At stage four, it had spread to her lungs, diaphragm, kidney, liver, bladder, and had attached her right ovary to her bowel.

“If they had diagnosed me when I was first showing symptoms, they would have just been able to surgically remove it,” she said.

“But when they found it, it was in places that were inoperable.”

Mrs Kennett’s medical team – based at Warrnambool, Ballarat, Melbourne and Hamilton – consists of endometriosis specialists, gynaecologists, haematologists, a urogynaecologist and pain management specialists.

She was put into medical menopause aged 21, needs regular blood transfusions, has restricted fertility, and has developed interstitial cystitis, a condition stemming from endometriosis inside her bladder.

It caused incontinence and urinary tract infection symptoms, until it was remedied with the implantation of an InterStim device about 12 months ago, a nerve stimulator which acts like a pacemaker.

“It’s been life-changing for me – I’ve had no incontinence and no UTI symptoms, that’s been huge for me,” Mrs Kennett said.

HOP TO A REFUND POINT THIS EASTER

for endometriosis education, care

“Until then, to have UTI symptoms and just even managing to try to talk about it as a young female, to say something was not right with my body, was really embarrassing.

“So many women go through this and they don’t talk about it because it is embarrassing.”

Mrs Kennett wants men to know more about the condition, and urged girls and women with symptoms to advocate for themselves.

“If you think something’s wrong, act on it – don’t be silent,” she said.

“For so long I was silent, I really did think it was all in my head because that’s how I was made to feel.

“If you think something’s wrong, fight harder, go seek new specialists. It took me so many before I found one, but you will eventually find one.”

Mrs Kennett said her surgeries to remove endometriosis were becoming more frequent.

“Because there’s stuff left there, it keeps growing,” she said.

“I had surgery in December, where they cleaned pretty much everything, but three weeks ago, I found out my ovary is attached to my bowel again.”

Mrs Kennett’s mother, Sharon Carter, said she felt helpless watching her daughter endure chronic pain.

“All I want is to be able to take her pain away,” she said.

“My daughter is brave and strong, even though she might not feel that way, she battles through this chronic disease as best she can.

“As a mother, it’s heartbreaking to see Kelly go through this, but I know she’s a fighter and she will never give up, she’s shown much resilience throughout this whole journey.”

Mrs Kennett said her everyday was

unpredictable – she has not been able to commit to regular employment, social outings or leaving the house.

“Some days I can feel great and not be in pain, but other days I’m riddled and can’t get out of bed and can’t function,” she said.

“It is hard and it has changed my life in every aspect – social, mental, physical. I’ve lost friends because of it. Lost jobs. Every way that you can think, it has impacted.

“It does define who I am as a person. I grieve the Kelly who I used to be.

“It makes me have limits, which I hate, but I’m navigating it, and I am really lucky I have such amazing friends and family and supporters behind me who are absolutely incredible. And I’ve got a diagnosis now. Finally.”

Medical bias

The State Government introduced Australia’s first-ever Inquiry into Women’s Pain in October 2024.

Led by Safer Care Victoria and the Inquiry into Women’s Pain Subcommittee, together with the Victorian Women’s Health Advisory Council and the Department of Health, it gathered insights from more than 13,000 women, girls, carers, healthcare professionals, peak bodies and researchers to unveil the experiences of girls and women with pain conditions and in accessing pain relief.

The inquiry showed medical gender bias and barriers in the healthcare system routinely led to denial or dismissal of pain, misdiagnoses or delayed diagnoses, and lack of pain relief and associated treatment for many women.

Ninety per cent of respondents re-

ported experiencing pain lasting longer than a year, and 54 per cent described living with pain every day, impacting mental health, employment, relationships, leisure activities and overall wellbeing.

The inquiry resulted in 27 recommendations across seven key areas, which would set a clear roadmap for reform and guide system-wide improvements to bridge the gender pain gap and ensure women’s pain was recognised, understood and addressed.

Sharing stories

Federation University is inviting women who have presented to emergency departments with severe menstrual pain – including endometriosis, pelvic pain and other period-related conditions – to be part of a new study.

It will explore women’s experiences of presenting to EDs, with a particular focus on interactions with nurses – often the first point of contact and central to assessment and ongoing care.

The study’s focus recognises the critical role nurses play in shaping patient outcomes and their unique position to influence how pain is understood, prioritised and managed in emergency settings.

PhD student Rebecca Peel said she hoped the study would help validate women’s experiences and drive improvements in how patients presenting with severe menstrual pain were assessed and treated.

“Too often, women with severe menstrual pain report feeling dismissed or not believed,” she said.

“This research seeks to improve

women’s experiences – so that when they come into the emergency department, they know they’ll be taken seriously.”

In establishing her research, Ms Peel conducted a systematic review, examining research from around the world covering a 20-year span.

The review found women’s symptoms have been systematically dismissed and normalised as being part of the female experience, leaving many feeling let down by healthcare professionals, and, in some cases, turning away from western healthcare altogether.

The research is also seeking to understand the experiences of ED nurses who often navigate the challenges of providing care in environments where gendered assumptions can affect how women’s pain is perceived and treated.

Ms Peel said the study ultimately sought to challenge entrenched societal attitudes toward women’s pain.

“As women, we’re often just told to ‘get on with it’, but it’s not women who need to be tougher – it’s our medical system that needs to be better,” she said.

Women aged 18 years and older who have attended an emergency department for menstrual pain in the past 12 months are encouraged to participate in the study by sharing their experiences through an online survey.

Nurses who have cared for patients experiencing symptoms are also being asked to share their experiences via an online survey; both are available on Federation University’s website.

To learn more about Endometriosis Awareness Month, people can visit www.marchintoyellow.org.au.

Horsham’s first business park is now under construction, featuring high-quality, architecturally designed warehouses that set a new standard for the region.

Geoff Taylor of Tayloredcorp is developing Horsham’s first business park, bringing his proven concept to the region following the successful completion of 11 high-quality warehouses in Geelong.

“The Horsham Hub Business Park is a place where like-minded businesses can service the town’s needs from one convenient and central location,” Mr Taylor said.

“This new development is located off the newly constructed Hanson Street within the Industrial 3 zone precinct in Horsham’s south. It borders the rapidly expanding Southbank residential estate and sits at the northern end of the Industrial 1 Zone, just off Plumpton Road.”

Mr Taylor said now is the ideal time for Horsham businesses - both new and established - to secure a posi-

tion within this brand-new facility and benefit from a highly soughtafter location.

“These architecturally designed warehouses represent the future. Many businesses simply don’t require the large land holdings they once did,” he said.

Constructed from 150mm solid concrete walls and featuring an impressive 7.5-metre internal height, the warehouses are designed to stand apart from the low-profile stock currently available in the market. Large remote-controlled roller doors ensure easy truck access for loading and unloading.

“They also deliver strong benefits in security, acoustics, and temperature control - particularly valuable in Horsham’s hot climate,” Mr Taylor said.

“These warehouses make a strong visual statement and offer a premium status symbol for any business or private occupier.”

ADVERTISEMENT Fighting for Mallee

I am so sorry I cannot be at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days in person for the first time in years but I have good news – I am a woman on a mission, for you, in Canberra this week!

In Canberra this week I, with Nationals colleagues, am bringing prime agricultural land to the fore as we presented a Bill on Monday - which I wrote - called the Prime Agricultural Land Protection Bill 2026. NSW Nationals MP Alison Penfold introduced the Bill, as I have Shadow Ministry responsibilities.

I have been fighting for regional communities in Mallee and responding to the horrifying stories of poor treatment of farming families and shocking community consultation. On Monday, The Nationals drew a line in the sand on the railroading of regional communities by saying the Commonwealth should not fund projects that trash prime ag land.

Food and fibre doesn’t just happen, nor does good farming soil. Prime Ag land is a managed system – fertilised, irrigated, cultivated, protected from erosion, nurtured by our farmers – for generations - to provide food security for Australians.

Recent government-backed projects have treated Mallee, intergenerational

farming families and prime agricultural land with utter contempt.

I am proud to have prepared a Bill that says social licence matters, that appoints an independent umpire - a federal Agricultural Commissioner - when big business uses the government power to force their way onto your farm.

I am proud to promote mapping our prime agricultural land and saying incompatible projects won’t happen on our best farming soil. We need prime ag land to grow food and fibre for generations to come. The world’s population is getting bigger while good farming land is disappearing. We must protect our most vital national asset.

In my 1,500 km travels to communities in Mallee last week including Birchip, Horsham, Natimuk and Pyramid Hill, one after another people came to me asking – how are we going to protect our prime ag land?

The Prime Agricultural Land Protection Bill 2026 is a big step in that direction. We must get our priorities in order and food security is number one.

Food, wine and flood

BY LAUREN HENRY

Horsham’s 150km Feast organisers will look to ‘reimagine’ next year’s event after Saturday night’s event was described as a ‘food, wine and flood adventure’.

With heavy rain on Friday night causing havoc for organisers, an army of volunteers showed up on Saturday morning to make sure Horsham Showground was able to host the food and wine festival and ‘Dinner under the Stars’.

In its sixth year, the event celebrated the region, bringing together food, wine and produce grown within 150 kilometres of Horsham.

Local growers, winemakers, brewers, distillers, chefs, food producers and musicians all came together, with the event moved indoors across Maydale Pavilion, The Stables and The Poultry Shed.

But despite the huge effort of volunteers to ensure the event went ahead, poor numbers at the festival will see organiser Andrea Cross rethink her plans and her involvement for next year.

“Overall, it’s a beautiful event. We had people from Port Arlington, from Berlin, from Geelong, and they don’t want to see it ever finish,” she said.

“But from my personal perspective –I’ve always said use it or lose it – and I think it’s pretty evident the food and wine festival will finish.

“That this will be the last food and wine festival element of the feast, and we may just revert next year back to the dinner.”

The Dinner under the Stars offered guests a five-course meal, with a bottle of local wine or beer, to enjoy.

When The Stable started to flood as more rain tumbled down on Satur-

day evening, guests moved onto the Maydale Pavilion, complete with live music, to continue to enjoy the night.

Mrs Cross could not thank all the volunteers enough for helping set-up and work on the night.

She said her and offsider Luke had to clear out drains on Friday night but much of it to no avail. They regrouped on Saturday morning, and with the help of another volunteer Britt who had worked on the logistics team for the fires base camp last year, worked out a plan on how to ensure the event would go ahead.

Her call-out on Friday night for help resulted in about 60 people showing up to clean-up, mitigate flooding, and set up a quickly revamped plan for the festival and dinner.

“Once the rain actually hit, I hit a wall and I couldn’t even think about what I had to do. I had a jobs list that

had to be done but  I was down there by myself at that stage,” she said.

“But when  that wall of people came to uphold the event, it was incredible.”

“There were other challenges that

Barengi Gadjin Land Council welcomes new CEO

Barengi Gadjin Land Council has a new chief executive with Chris Santagiuliana taking on the role.

Mr Santagiuliana started in the role on Monday, following a national recruitment process led by an external First Peoples-owned and managed recruitment firm, which considered a wide range of candidates for the position.

He previously served as BGLC’s chief financial officer since 2023, playing a key role in strengthening the organisation’s governance, systems and long-term sustainability.

Mr Santagiuliana brings extensive senior experience from the private sector, and has postgraduate qualifications in accounting, taxation, business law and governance.

BGLC chairperson Chris Harrison said the board was confident Mr Santagiuliana was the right person to guide the organisation into the future.

“This was a rigorous and competitive process,” he said.

“We were seeking a leader who brings strong governance capability, commercial acumen and a clear understanding of the responsibilities that come with leading a traditional owner corporation.

“Chris has already demonstrated his commitment to BGLC and our community over the past three years as our chief financial officer, establishing a rapport with community and appreciating the intricacies of community and also that of the broader community as to how they oper-

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ate and the politics that can occur.” Mr Harrison said Mr Santagiuliana understood BGLC’s strategic direction, statutory responsibilities and the trust the community has in the organisation.

“The coming years will be an exciting time for BGLC, and the board looks forward to continuing to work closely with Chris as we continue to strengthen outcomes for our people and future generations,” he said.

Mr Santagiuliana, a first-generation Australian whose family migrated from northern Italy, grew up on a farm on Quandamooka Country in Queensland.

His leadership is grounded in a strong appreciation of communi-

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ty, stewardship and intergenerational responsibility.

Mr Santagiuliana said it was an honour to take on the role.

“It is a privilege to take on this role with Barengi Gadjin Land Council and to continue working with the board, staff and community to advance the aspirations and rights of traditional owners of this country,” he said.

“I am committed to building on the strong foundations already in place and ensuring the organisation remains focused on community, cultural strengthening, good governance and delivering long-term benefits for the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk peoples and the broader community.”

we had to face behind the scenes too, and I guess this is what really shows that community spirit.

“Behind it all are the people, the humans –  people are so kind.”

Serviceton bust leads to charges

The accused leader of a crime syndicate will face court on April 21 following the seizure of more than 40 tonnes of precursor chemicals at Serviceton.

Police executed a search warrant at a rural property in Serviceton in October, 2024, where they allegedly located the precursor chemicals, with the capacity to produce an estimated street value of more than $2.5-billion worth of methylamphetamine.

The 55-year-old man is charged with trafficking large commercial quantity MDMA and conspiracy to traffick large commercial quantity methylamphetamine.

He is one of seven people who were charged as part of a three-year Clandestine Laboratory Squad investigation into the illicit drug trade.

The 55-year-old man was arrested in November, 2025, after being extradited from the Northern Territory to Melbourne Investigators allege the syndicate, directed by

a ringleader, was importing precursor chemicals and then manufacturing, trafficking and distributing the large commercial quantities of methylamphetamine, P2P and MDMA throughout the country.

The investigation included 15 search warrants and dismantled three large scale clandestine laboratories at Coburg North, Pascoe Vale and Monegeetta.

The initial shipment, detected by the Australian Border Force in November 2022, was disguised as a chemical imported to make perfume in Melbourne.

Other items to be seized included seven secured firearms, a gel blaster, an unsecured loaded shotgun, ammunition, nunchucks, two Samurai swords, three imitation handguns and assorted knives and swords, cash and varying quantities of drugs.

More than practical support

The Wimmera’s Sexual Assault and Family Violence Centre has been gifted bags of skincare and make-up by Horsham’s Simply Skin and Laser Clinic.

The centre at Horsham, which provides specialist therapeutic counselling and group programs for victim-survivors of sexual assault and family violence, assisted 694 people in the 2024-25 financial year.

SAFV Centre chief executive Kerriann Campbell Jones said the centre was deeply grateful for the donation.

Sexual and family violence can have devastating and long-lasting effects on victimsurvivors, their families, and the wider community,” she said.

“Self-care packs like these offer more than practical support; they carry a powerful message of kindness, dignity, and solidarity. They remind victim-survivors across the Wimmera that their community stands beside them as they take steps toward safety and healing.”

Simply Skin and Clinic marketing co-ordinator Ezra Barry said it was important to the clinic to give back to the community.

“We are definitely a women-focused business, and being able to help the community and give back where we can is important to our directors Gabriella and Jamila, and all of us,” he said.

“In the past, I’ve worked with Simone O’Brien on similar projects, getting care packs to people who were in emergency situations, especially for domestic violence, and I wanted to bring a similar initiative to the clinic.”

Ms Campbell Jones said people who wanted to support the centre’s clients could organise a fundraising event, provide in-kind donations, or make a financial contribution.

“Donations enable the provision of therapeutic resources, school holiday vouchers to support healing and connection, as well as the supply of essential items such as moving-out packs and back-to-school or work packs,” she said.

“More information about how to donate is available on our website.”

If people need support, they can contact the SAFV Centre on 5381 1211 or via wimmera@ safvcentre.org.au.

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Mobile service centre in Donald, St Arnaud

Thirteen previously stolen Holden vehicles were also located, suspected of being part of a car rebirthing ring. Services Australia’s Mobile Service Centre will visit Donald and St Arnaud in coming weeks.

The mobile service centre, Blue Gum, will offer the community access to Medicare and Centrelink services and can provide information about the National Disability Insurance Scheme and Department of Veterans’ Affairs services. Blue Gum will visit Donald on March 11 from 9.30am to 4pm, near Donald Mall on Woods

and supporting information; myGov services; social work support and referrals; Medicare registrations; and accessing online services through a self-service terminal.

For more information, people can visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/mobileoffice.

Crown Allotment C/A 106 Kewell West Frontage to 2 roads - vacant land

Parcel 2 - known as “Hermans” 161.04 ha/ 397.95 acres Dogwood Road Blackheath

Crown Allotments 27, 28 & 31 Kewell West Frontage to 3 roads

Parcel 3 - known as “Keechs” 129.5ha/ 320 acres

Byrneville West Road Blackheath

Crown Allotment 17 Kewell West Frontage to 1 road

Expressions of Interest will close at 4.00pm Thursday 19th March 2026

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Water network blitz

GWMWater will carry out a maintenance blitz across Ararat’s water network as part of ongoing efforts to provide long-term reliability and strong water pressure for locals.

The program will see GWMWater contractors carry out essential upgrades at key points in the town, replacing and repairing ageing infrastructure and known issues.

GWMWater managing director Mark Williams said while the works would require some planned water interruptions, they would ultimately deliver a more reliable and better-performing water-supply network for Ararat.

The plan includes three shut-

downs during March to allow contractors safe access to the network, with the first finishing this morning.

Water supply was interrupted in Vanstan, Elizabeth, Tobin and Laidlaw streets, Gossip Avenue and surrounding areas from 11pm last night, finishing at 5am today.

The next planned maintenance interruption will be on Tuesday, with GWMWater customers on Ararat’s Barkly Street, Bellinghams Hill Road, Blackie Avenue, Montgomery Street, Scotts Rise, Oliver’s Gully Road, Tobin Street and Warnies Lane potentially experiencing no or low water pressure between 9am and 2pm.

To support customers during the interruption, GWMWater will provide a water trailer at Ararat Secondary College, 4-30 Barkly Street. The final planned interruption will be between Monday, March 16 and Tuesday, March 17.

Mr Williams said most properties in the Ararat urban area would experience an overnight water disruption while GWMWater completed maintenance and upgrade works between 11pm and 5am.

He said the works were scheduled overnight to minimise inconvenience, and that GWMWater staff and contractors would work through the night to complete the upgrades

as quickly and safely as possible.

“It’s about getting in early and making sure Ararat’s water network is in the best shape possible,” he said.

“By tackling this maintenance now, we’re setting the network up to perform better into the future.

“We understand interruptions are inconvenient, but this work helps reduce the chance of unexpected outages later on.

“We’d like to thank customers for their patience.”

Customers with questions or concerns about the planned works can contact GWWater on 1300 659 961 during business hours.

Ararat council progressing priority projects

Ararat Rural City Council continues to advocate on key priorities in its 2025-2029 council plan, with a strong focus on jobs, industry growth and major infrastructure.

Ararat chief executive Tim Harrison said council was working hard to create longterm prosperity across the region.

“That means supporting education and training, attracting new industry and advocating strongly for the infrastructure our region needs,” he said.

Council is building stronger connections between the Ararat Jobs and Technology Precinct, AJTP, and local industry, including promoting internship pathways for research students.

It is also supporting the continued delivery of TAFE courses at AJTP, including

Certificate Three in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Dr Harrison said council was also working with Invest Victoria, Regional Development Victoria and private sector partners to advocate for a state-significant circular economy hub in Ararat.

He said support also continued for Valorify Pty Ltd’s proposed straw-based biogas plant and PlastOil’s planned plastics recycling facility.

Dr Harrison said council was also actively advocating to state and federal governments for stronger renewable gas policy support, the Western Highway upgrade from Buangor to Ararat, and development of a north-south heavy vehicle route.

Six months into delivery of the 2025-

2029 council plan, council is making strong progress on its 53 priority actions set for the four-year term.

Year one focuses on growing the municipality, strengthening local economies, protecting the environment, delivering enabling infrastructure, enhancing community life and maintaining strong and effective governance.

Key achievements include adoption of the 2025-2035 asset plan and the 20252029 municipal public health and wellbeing plan, as well as submitting funding applications under the National Housing Infrastructure Facility and for National Science Week 2026 in partnership with Federation University and community stakeholders.

Russell leaving long family legacy

Russell Sherwell will retire from Yarriambiack Shire Council in coming weeks, after a 45-year career with the municipality. He began with the shire in 1981 at the age of 17, continuing both his father’s and grandfather’s local government legacies – they gave respective 40 years’ service to the former Dunmunkle Shire.

Council chief executive Tammy Smith said Mr Sherwell’s service was exemplary.

“Russell’s commitment to our shire represents an outstanding achievement,” she said.

“We have been privileged to benefit from his expertise and experience throughout his distinguished career, dedicated to our community and shire.

“Council wishes Russell well as he begins his retirement following the completion of his service on March 16.”

Bertram inducted into hall of fame

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Sally Bertram has been inducted into the RSL 10A Sub-Branches of Victoria hall of fame for her contribution at Horsham.

Known as ‘the lady in red’, Mrs Bertram has volunteered at the branch for about 11 years, researching and writing the stories of soldiers and facilitating anniversary events and visits for community groups.

“You get a lot of feedback and it’s just great – I do it because I love doing it, it’s what I’ve always liked to do,” she said.

Mrs Bertram has led radio interviews, written articles for print media, and traced her own family’s military history back to Vignacourt, France, where her grandfather Robert Edward Charles served during World War I.

“He was part of the delegation who got the RSL going here again after it went into recess after the First World War,” Mrs Bertram said.

“He was president here for six years in the 1930s, so I think my involvement is because of him, it’s part of me.”

Mr Charles has been honoured with a tree planted near Horsham’s cenotaph, and he was part of a rare, international find.

“About 3000 glass slides were found in a barn in France about 30 years ago, and now they’re in the Canberra war memorial,” Mrs Bertram said.

“My grandfather is in one of the photos.”

Mrs Bertram has been a Horsham sub and general committee member, chief researcher and is currently appeals officer.

“Since 2015, I have continued to write the military history, which was started by a beautiful man called Jim Amos,” she said.

“Since 2015, I have continued to write the military history, which was started by a beautiful man called Jim Amos”

–Sally Bertram

“We do research for families – anything military, really – and compile soldiers’ stories. There are a lot of stories, each story takes about five hours, but families appreciate that.”

In 2015, Mrs Bertram played a key role in coordinating the Centenary of Service Gallipoli exhibition, presented to about 600 school children and Indigenous groups

Titled ‘Spirits of the Past – The Wimmera at War’, the exhibition showcased a rich collection of memorabilia and service records.

In 2018, she led another significant exhibition, commemorating the signing of the Armistice that ended the First World War.

The display honoured the enduring service and sacrifice of Australia’s military personnel and drew recognition from dignitaries including the then Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester and former Horsham Mayor Pam Clarke.

Mrs Bertram regularly curates military displays featuring memorabilia donated by families, connecting the region’s veterans.

She said she nearly ‘fell off her seat’ when she heard of her induction.

“But as I said, it depends on the people around you – if you have them around you, helping you, you can get this,” she said.

“I love doing this stuff and working with these guys.”

Commemorative 125th badge

A commemorative badge marking the 125th anniversary of the founding of the Australian Army has been released by the Returned Services League of Australia Victorian branch.

Featuring the image of a contemporary Australian soldier, RSL Horsham sub-branch president Gareth Lane said the anniversary was a time for reflection and recognition.

“The 125th anniversary of the Army is an important moment to reflect on its history, but also to remember those currently serving in its ranks,” he said.

“Which is why we have chosen the image of a contemporary soldier for this commemorative badge.”

The badge will be sold across Australia as part of the 2026 ANZAC Appeal, with all proceeds going towards the diverse range of services the RSL provides to assist veterans and their families.

These services include emergency financial assistance, veteran advocacy, and social and community activities.

The ANZAC Appeal is the longest-running veteran charity appeal in Australia.

This is the first time the image of a modern Australian soldier has been represented on a commemorative badge as part of the Appeal.

“While grounded in history, the ANZAC Appeal is about supporting the veteran of today,” Mr Lane said.

“The RSL is as important to recent veterans as it was to the diggers who returned from the First World War.”

The commemorative badge can be purchased, and donations made, at RSL sub-branches or online through the ANZAC Appeal website at www.anzacappeal.com.au.

Open 7 Days for Lunch

Society secretary Emma Hamilton said the grant was very helpful.

“We were having all sorts of power issues where we couldn’t draw enough power from different places around the oval, and the coffee machine wasn’t working, which was obviously

and rides couldn’t keep going,” she said. “It just made it

and it provides something fun for the

to

to.” “We are excited to announce this year that we’re going into twilight, which we’ve never done before.”

FARM CLEARING SALE – TARRANYURK

Thursday, March 26, 2026 @ 10.30am On Site – 1127 King Road, Tarranyurk

(A/c G, E & G Starick)

New Holland TJ325 articulated 4WD, 8360hrs (5360hrs on 2nd eng), Greenstar 6000 GPS receiver, scroll screen monitor; John Deere 7710 FWA, 14776 hrs, 3PL, creeper gear box, Greenstar 3000 GPS receiver, scroll screen monitor; 9G Chamberlain; Case IH 2366 header, 7318 eng hrs, 5961 rotor hrs, 25’ 1010 front nger reel, harvest ready; Ford 600 tray truck, 84595 miles, inc grain/gravel sides, engine rebuilt 2015 at 82505 miles, unreg; Caterpillar 922B rear steer FEL, 13000 hrs; Goldacres 5000ltr trailing boom spray, 30m boom; John Shearer 28 row combine; Horwood Bagshaw scaribar 41’ with Ryan press wheels, 6000ltr tow behind air seeder inc spare shears & boots; Heaslip grain & fertiliser grouper, 60/40 split; Howard Nugget 3PL 7’ slasher; 3PL carry all with spray unit; Polymaster 600ltr re unit; 4kVA diesel generator, rope start; 35’ LS 5032 radial stacker; round wool table; Sunbeam single wool press; Uni Tube 1537; Celli Tiger 190 10’ rotary hoe; Celli Tiger 180 parts; 3 x 2200ltr overhead fuel bowsers, bottom ll; 990ltr petrol bowser; delver; 3PL post hole digger; 3PL grader; 2 x 3PL rippers; electric pencil auger; 2 x small electric augers; auger (no eng); 12v fuel trailer; 400ltr Polymaster diesel transfer, 50lpm, used once; electric cement mixer; Spitwater pressure cleaner; Peerless electric air compressor; electric air compressor parts; Ironbar engine air compressor; 1½” water pump; 2 x Vennings grain hoppers; large plastic grain hopper; grain mixer; grain tarp; sheep feeder; 50 bag silo; gypsum crusher, hyd drive, needs work; heavy duty 200ltr drums; 4 x drag chains; 2 x 3T slings; snatch strap; Husqvarna 38” ride on mower; Stihl MS 280C chainsaw; Stihl HTA 85 battery pole saw; Cyclone fence strainers; steel various; gates old & new; concreting mesh; railway line; used truck & tractor tyres; safety signs; stock signs; 200ltr hyd 68 oil; workshop tools; antiques; household items; various other sundries.

Outside Vendors – For further information on items listed below, please contact the vendor I Keller 0427 181 801 - Wheatheart R10-36 hyd drive auger; Atlas Copco XAS 60185 CFM air compressor; Grainline manual cropping door.

A Schulz 0429 986 921 - Sherwell eld bin (approx 280 bags), PTO auger; 2 x Ackland eld bins (approx 300 bags), PTO auger; Farmking 36’x10” auger, self propelled, Kohler motor; Brandt 45’x15” shi er, self propelled, Kohler motor; Goldacres 5033 boom spray, 5400ltr, 33m boom, dual spray lines, airbag suspension, trans cal tank, granny pot, 2” ll pump, raven controller, near new tyres and pump.

D Mibus 0428 340 891 – 2 x portable toilets (not on wheels). For photos: www.elders.com.au www.farmclearingsales.com.au Directions: From Warracknabeal take Aubrey Road towards Tarranyurk, follow signs. Terms: Buyer number system will be operating, photo ID required. Cash, Chq,

Storer at Laharum

Laharum Hall will be the place to be in March, with award-winning country music singer-songwriter Sara Storer to play two shows and the Festival of Halls returning once again.

Storer will play at Laharum on March 20 and 21 – after first playing at the hall in October, 2024.

With the Saturday night show quickly selling out, Wimmera promoter Alana Morrow added a second show.

Both shows kick off at 7pm, with a barbecue – the Friday night by Rotary and the Saturday night by Apex – proceeding from 5.30pm.

Special guests include Sara’s brother Greg Storer, and The Stewies on the Friday night, while Leah Briggs is the support act at the Saturday show.

Storer’s album Silos won an ARIA music award for best country album in 2016, and she has collected 21 Golden Guitar awards at Tamworth Country Music Festival.

Storer encouraged people to attend the show and support live Australian music.

“Playing live music is really joyous. It’s different to recording an album,” she said.

“When you play live music it’s real, it’s raw, it’s honest and it’s not perfect like what’s on albums. That’s what makes live music so special I think.”

For tickets to Storer’s Friday night show, people can visit www. sarastorer.com.au.

Festival of Small Halls

Woodfordia’s Festival of Small Halls is returning to Laharum Hall on March 13, with Irish-Canadian powerhouse Irish Mythen and Australian folk poet-singer Kaurna Cronin to feature.

The folk singers are no strangers to audiences across Australia.

“I’m so looking forward to being back on the road in Australia,” Cronin said.

“I grew up traversing the country in my parents’ beat-up yellow Toyota Hiace pop-top van, so I’m excited be out on those roads again, and sharing songs with the Small Halls tour.”

Opening the show will be former Brimpaen resident Peter McGennisken – a longtime musician who has played in dance bands since the age of 15.

With an interest in country, country-rock and rock, McGennisken will also play some originals of his own.

The festival will visit 13 regional Victorian towns, putting a spotlight back on country halls, which are central to community life, hosting meetings, classes, workshops and shows for many rural communities.

The festival allows communities to host a community meal, barbecue, cake spread and other events alongside the concerts to make the night special.

Laharum Hall secretary and treasurer Judy Berendsen said the Festival of Small Halls was Laharum Hall’s biggest fundraiser

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for the year, and she encouraged people to bring cash for raffles.

“In the past we’ve had it in the field days week, but we gave them feedback last time to not have it during field days week because we felt there was enough on, so they’ve listened to that – they’re going to Dunkeld the night before and then they’re coming here,” she said.

Mrs Berendsen said a grant from Horsham Rural City Council made the event possible and allowed funds to be raised for the hall.

She said in the past the festival had attracted people from Horsham, Hamilton and as far away as Melbourne.

“It’s a fundraiser for us and that keeps us running,” she said.

“Costs are always going up, but we are very well supported by Horsham Rural City Council for our building and maintenance, so it does help. But any items within the hall, the committee purchases.”

Mrs Berendsen said the fact Storer had chosen to return to Laharum Hall was testament to the quality of the venue.

“We’ve got a beautifully acoustic hall, right through our supper room as well,” she said.

A Lions Club barbecue tea will kick off the night at 5.30pm before doors open at 6.30pm for the show at 7.30pm.

The cost is $25 for adults, with children 15 and under $10, with all proceeds going to Laharum Hall.

People can buy tickets at festival ofsmallhalls.com/laharum-2026.

Seeing Clearly, Living Better: Why Eye Health Matters in Horsham

When it comes to our health, it is easy to focus on what is most visible until our vision starts to let us down.

Eye health is one of those things many of us put o , convincing ourselves we will get around to it eventually.

But for people of the Wimmera, there has never been a better reason to make an appointment, because top-notch eye care is right here in our backyard.

Kevin Paisley Optometrists has long been a trusted name in regional eye care, and its Horsham practice, led by local optometrist Hannah Peltzer, is a shining example of what community healthcare should look like.

Hannah has called the Wimmera home for 14 years. She knows the community, she understands the lifestyle, and she genuinely cares about the people sitting across from her in the consulting chair.

A bulk-billed* routine eye test is not simply about updating your glasses prescription, it can detect early signs of serious conditions such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, AMD, and diabetes related eye disease, often before any symptoms appear.

Early detection saves sight. It really is that simple.

Fitter, stronger, taller, cheekier

Horsham’s Stan Penny attributes his new outlook on life to his fitness regime – he has been a regular at the gym for the past 10 years, joining when he was 85.

“That’s what’s keeping me alive,” Mr Penny said.

“Honestly – I don’t know where I’d be if I didn’t have this. They’re a good lot of people.”

Planet Feelgood gym owner Lisa Cosson leads ‘Strive to Survive’, which Mr Penny attends twice a week.

“The class focuses on resistance training to help manage chronic disease,” she said.

“Most people coming in have type two

At Kevin Paisley Optometrists in Horsham, the team o ers a comprehensive range of services to keep your vision at its best at every stage of life. From thorough routine eye examinations to specialised testing for glaucoma, AMD and diabetic eye changes, the team has the expertise and equipment to look after your long-term eye health. Children’s eye tests are also a priority, because clear vision is fundamental to learning, development and confidence in young ones.

For those su ering from the frustrating discomfort of dry eye, the practice also o ers dry eye treatment, providing real relief. The practice also has a range of leading international and independent eyewear brands

including RayBan, Oakley, Ti any and Versace, and many more to suit everyone’s needs.

What sets this team apart, though, is something less clinical and more human.

Hannah and the team take the time to truly get to know you and your eyes.

Appointments do not feel rushed. Questions are welcomed. You leave feeling informed, cared for, and confident. If personal service and quality care are important to you, visit Kevin Paisley Optometrists.

Book your bulk-billed* appointment today. Together, Hannah and the team can have you seeing better.

*Subject to Medicare eligibility

diabetes, type one diabetes, any sort of chronic disease from heart attack, stroke, hip replacement, knee replacement, brain acquired injury, Parkinson’s – there’s all different conditions.”

Ms Cosson said Mr Penny joined the gym via Wimmera Health Care Group.

“Unfortunately, his wife had passed, and he was having some emotional and wellbeing troubles – he talks about ‘blue days’,” she said.

“Now he’s fitter, stronger, taller, and cheekier than when he first started, and he just loves it, he loves the banter.”

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Have Your Say

Council currently has a number of documents available for public feedback:

Proposed Waste & Recycling Service Changes

Road Hierarchy & Road Register

Footpath Hierarchy

Economic Development Strategy

Onsite Wastewater Management Plan

Tree Management Policy

Find out more and have your say by completing our online form at www.yarriambiack.vic.gov.au/Engage-With-Us/Share-Your-Feedback, or via paper form available from our office or engagement van.

Procurement Opportunities

Council currently has the following procurement opportunities: Request for Tender - Lighting Upgrade - Minyip Recreation Reserve, Main Oval (C369-2026)

Sale of Gas Appliances – Hot Water Services & Cooktops – Expression of Interest (EOI 006-2026)

Cleaning Services - Warracknabeal Caravan Park Cabins - Expression of Interest (EOI 015-2026)

General Concreting Services, Footpath Construction/Maintenance and Kerb & Channel Works - Panel of Suppliers – Request for Tender (C3572026)

EOI 013-2026 Sale of Impounded Vehicle - Mazda Tribute Wagon

EOI 014-2026 Sale of Impounded Vehicle - Rooftop Tent

For more information and application instructions, visit www.yarriambiack.vic.gov.au/Business/Tenders

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YARRIAMBIACK NEWS

MARCH 2026

NEXT COUNCIL MEETING: 25 MARCH 2026

Mayoral Matters

The Coffee with a Councillor session have been confirmed for 2026. These sessions enable community members to contribute their perspectives regarding the Shire’s future, offer input on "Have Your Say" topics, and address any additional matters of interest they wish to discuss.

Councillors will be joined by Community Engagement Van personnel and a Local Laws Officer, enabling operational issues to be referred for entry into the Customer Request Management System.

Council has a number of “Have Your Say” documents out for community consultation at the moment, this includes:

The Revised Economic Development Strategy 2025-2029

The Onsite Wastewater Management Strategy 2026-2031

The Road Hierarchy and Road Register for Local Roads and Streets

Footpath Hierarchy and Implementation Plan

The Tree Management Policy and Yarriambiack Street and Reserve Tree Strategy

Proposed Waste and Recycling Service Changes

In addition, a mailout has been distributed to all ratepayers outlining the proposed changes to waste and recycling. The Yarriambiack Street and Reserve Tree Strategy also identifies priority locations for tree planting across seven townships. We encourage the community to provide input and have their say regarding the current strategies out for community consultation.

We look forward to catching up with our community as we roll out our Coffee with a Councillor sessions.

Aid volunteers restoring hope

Ateam of volunteers will be in the Natimuk area next week to help restore damaged farm infrastructure, improve productivity and support the wellbeing of farming families recovering from the Grass Flat fire.

Rural Aid’s Farm Recovery Event program delivers practical, hands-on support to farming communities recovering from natural disasters.

Six locations have so far been locked in for 2026, with Natimuk the first, followed by Mangrove Mountain, New South Wales; Loxton, South Australia; and North Queensland.

The volunteers will be at Natimuk from March 8 to 13, supporting farmers recovering from the January fire and prolonged dry conditions.

Final locations for the August and October events will be confirmed by June 30.

Rural Aid chief executive John Warlters said the week-long events brought together volunteers from across the country.

The volunteers are set to help with a variety of tasks, from fencing and repairs to property clean-ups and gardening.

Mr Warlters said the recovery events were about more than physical repairs.

“Each event provides meaningful, practical support that helps farming families move forward after incredibly challenging seasons,” he said.

“Our volunteers don’t just rebuild fences or clear debris, they help restore hope.

“When farmers see people turning up to lend a hand, it reinforces they are not alone.

“That sense of solidarity is incredibly powerful.”

Mr Warlters said farmers consistently expressed deep gratitude for the support provided through farm recovery events.

“Beyond the tangible improvements to their properties, many say the greatest impact is knowing that others care enough to show up and help,” he said.

Mr Warlters said volunteering was a powerful way for Australians to stand alongside farming families.

“Volunteering your time and skills can make an immediate and lasting difference,” he said.

“It’s a chance to give back to the people who put food on our tables and keep regional communities strong. We encourage individuals, community groups and corporate teams to get involved.”

Rural Aid is now calling for volunteers to register their interest for the 2026 farm recovery events program.

No prior farming experience is necessary, just a willingness to lend a hand and be part of a supportive team environment.

To learn more or sign up to volunteer, people can visit www.ruralaid.org.au/ volunteers.

Rural Aid, a rural charity committed to supporting farmers and rural communities since 2015, is also calling on people to support its Together with Farmers, Every Step of the Way appeal. Donations to the appeal will help fund practical recovery assistance, wellbeing support and essential services for farmers in need. To donate people can visit www.everystep.ruralaid. org.au.

Emergency recovery support at hand

Grampians Community Health will deliver a ‘safety net’ recovery support service to communities affected by the Grass Flat fire.

The Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing engaged Grampians Community Health, GCH, to deliver the emergency-recovery support program, which is free to access.

It will also roll out the program to the Streatham-Skipton communities impacted by the January bushfires.

GCH expects to support more than 100 people in both fire zones and connect them with an array of recovery services available.

Senior emergency recovery support worker Shane Richardson said the program would focus on personal support for people

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directly and indirectly affected by the fires.

“We are a personal support safety net for the community,” he said.

“Our priority is to engage with and walk alongside people in their own communities to achieve positive recovery outcomes.

“We support people in advocacy and direct assistance to aid their recovery, emotionally and materially. We will help people tap into appropriate programs and make sure they are supported through the entirety of their recovery process.”

Funding for the program is confirmed until at least June 30, but Mr Richardson said GCH would ensure people received the ongoing support they needed by referral into core GCH programs.

Mr Richardson has visited both

fire zones and said a successful community recovery would take time and required a co-ordinated multiagency commitment.

“It has been two years since the Pomonal fires, and we continue working positively with that community,” he said.

“There are about 40 households displaced across both fire zones and a lot of people have lost everything.

“We encourage all families and individuals to engage with us and take up the offer of support, and importantly we encourage everyone in the community to care for their people and to let us know if you are concerned about anyone.

“Recovery will evolve over time as people identify what they need, and we are ready to help whenever that support is required.”

Beyond Placement: How LLENs Strengthen Rural Workforce Pipelines

From the outside, reading the black-and-white wording of the School to Work contract, you might think Local Learning and Employment Networks (LLENs) simply organise work experience and placements for students who need additional support to find their ‘fit’.

We absolutely do this — and we do it well. But those transactional KPIs only tell part of the story. In rural regions, the real work of LLENs happens behind the scenes, where workforce viability, industry confidence and youth opportunity intersect.

In 2019, a local TAFE, at the time, delivering engineering apprenticeships approached WSMLLEN with a concern: student pipelines were shrinking, course viability was under pressure, yet local businesses were constantly asking where the apprentices were.

We convened discussions with TAFE and Skillinvest and coordinated an industry roundtable facilitated by Wimmera Southern Mallee Development. Together, industry identified ten strategic actions to strengthen youth engagement. WSMLLEN took the lead with work in the school sector.

coordinators, parents and students didn’t truly understand modern engineering. Perceptions were outdated; technology advances were invisible; and young people simply weren’t inspired.

In response, WSMLLEN established a Teacher Immersion program, taking in-school career practitioners directly into local workplaces to see and experience the industry firsthand. We supported student immersions where possible between lockdowns and amplified industry stories through schools and social media.

We also continue to advocate around safety constraints that limit student exposure to machinery under standard work experience guidelines.

Despite these systemic barriers, the region now has a more robust engineering pathway through VDSS delivered in by Federation University, with a consistent pipeline of informed young people entering the sector.

There is still significant workforce shortage pressure — in reality, industry could absorb many more young people tomorrow if they were available. In a small rural region, there are only so many schoolaged students to draw from, and competition across sectors is real.

But the strengthened pipeline we now see did not occur by chance. It is the result of deliberate, coordinated workforce strategy — aligning industry, training providers and schools to ensure young people are informed, inspired and supported to enter local careers.

Most of the participating businesses now have a direct line and link to local schools.

In 2022, WSMLLEN joined ByFive’s Early Childhood Education and Care Workforce Development Group, taking a lead role in youth attraction and placement coordination. Barriers included limited VET offerings, scarce aspirational activities in schools, competitive placement markets and thin regional capacity.

We worked alongside By-Five, Early Education Providers and RTOs to create clearer, coordinated pathways — including an interactive ‘walkin-centre’ at the Western Victorian Careers Expo and structured placement alignment with VDSS programs.

We now collaborate with Federation University to manage enrolment numbers and assessment scheduling, improving placement access and quality while strengthening the student pipeline.

These are just two examples of the long-term, place-based workforce development work LLENs undertake — not only for students, but for business and industry viability. We are currently working across emerging industries, growth sectors and established employers to futureproof regional pipelines.

If your industry group is concerned about workforce supply, connect with your local LLEN. Email eo@llen. com.au or visit llen.com.au.

And please complete the School to Work survey — local experiences matter, and rural voices need to be heard:

https://engage.vic.gov.au/workexperience

Blizzard to lead celebration

Fresh from a history-making performance at the Winter Olympics, Ararat bobsleigh star

Sarah Blizzard will be a guest speaker at the rural city’s International Women’s Day morning tea on March 11.

Ms Blizzard will address attendees at the free community event, which will be at Ararat RSL’s function room from 10.30am on Wednesday next week.

The event, hosted by Ararat Rural City Council Deputy Mayor Teli Kaur, will bring together the com-

Fiesta returns

Jeparit Riverbank Fiesta will be reprised with live music, market stalls and vendors following the success of last year’s International Women’s Day event.

This year with a theme of ‘balance the scales’, representatives from Allied Justice will speak on justice for women throughout history, as well as the services currently offered.

From 5pm to 10.30pm on Saturday, the concert is free. People can bring their own chairs, blankets and refreshments.

People who would like to book a market stall can contact Jeparit Township Advisory Committee by email at jeparittc@hotmail.com or by phone 0417 348 881.

munity with an aim of celebrating women’s leadership, resilience and contribution to community life.

Ms Blizzard will share insights about her journey from local sport to representing Australia on the world stage and outline the value of leadership and persistence.

Also speaking at the event will be: Victoria Police Leading Senior Constable Sandra Marriner, speaking about service, mentorship and the importance of women’s voices in community safety and support; Ararat Women’s Shed president and founder Rowena Murray, who

will reflect on the power of local spaces that bring women together to learn, share and build confidence; and Marian College Ararat principal Catherine Howison, exploring how education, inclusion and opportunity can shape the next generation of women leaders.

Mayor Bob Sanders said the event would celebrate the many ways women lead in the Ararat community.

“Each of these speakers shows leadership through action – in sport, community safety, education and the everyday work of building connection,” he said.

“International Women’s Day is about recognising those contributions and inspiring the next generation to participate, belong and lead.”

Cr Sanders encouraged community to gather friends, colleagues or group members and book early, as places at the morning tea are limited. The event is free, but registrations are essential for catering purposes.

People can reserve tickets by visiting www.trybooking.com/DJQXB or calling the council’s customer service line on 5355 0200.

Finding the Balance invitation

The Wimmera community will come together on Tuesday to celebrate International Women’s Day at Horsham Town Hall Theatre with a local event, Finding the Balance.

From noon to 1.30pm, women and allies from across the Wimmera are invited to pause, reflect and connect.

A light lunch will be provided, and a free guided tour of Horsham

Regional Art Gallery will be offered at 11.30am.

This year’s event acknowledges the external demands and internal

The Horsham International Women’s Day Committee works collaboratively to deliver events that celebrate women, promote gender equality, foster inclusion and strengthen connection across the region

load many women carry. Facilitated by Ellen Jackson from Potential Psychology, the interactive session will explore balance as a metaphor for care, capacity and limits, focusing on progress, not perfection.

The Horsham International Women’s Day Committee works collaboratively to deliver events that celebrate women, promote gender equality, foster inclusion and strengthen connection across the region.

The committee acknowledges that a woman is anyone who identifies as a woman and welcomes people of all genders.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 concession, and are available at the town hall or online at horshamtownhall.com.au/iwd/.

Rotary applauds leaders

The Rotary Club of Horsham East will host an International Women’s Day event as part of its weekly program.

The event, starting at 6pm tonight, Wednesday, will be at Horsham RSL.

It is the second consecutive year the Rotary club has hosted its own International Women’s Day event.

This year’s theme ‘Applauding Wimmera Women in Leadership’, aligns with the 2026 International Women’s Day theme of Give to Gain.

The club will highlight the achievements of women in Rotary across the Wimmera region, along with Horsham Rural City Council chief executive Gail Gatt.

Ms Gatt will be joined by Rotary members Jo-Anne Bates from the Rotary Club of Horsham East; Wendy Hewitt from the Rotary Club of Warracknabeal; and Mary Dalgleish from the Rotary Club of Nhill.

All speakers have a background in education, the community services sector, particularly in women’s health, sporting club volunteer, local government and librarianship.

President Rick Hopper said the format would feature interviews exploring each participant’s background and journey.

“There was enthusiasm for the upcoming program, noting that club members are eager to hear from these inspiring speakers as they share their personal leadership stories,” he said.

“The panel will discuss their experiences in leadership roles, both personally and professionally and how their efforts have contributed to positive change within their workplaces and or communities.”

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, first observed in the early 1900s.

This year marks the 115th anniversary of International Women’s Day.

The Give to Gain theme encourages contributions in various forms, including donations, sharing knowledge, providing resources or infrastructure, offering visibility, advocacy, education, training, mentoring, or dedicating time.

Supporting women’s advancement fosters a more connected and supportive world. It challenges everyone on how they might consider giving.

The Rotary club’s commitment is to align itself with its status as an international service organisation, enabling its members to make meaningful contributions both locally and globally.

Dinner and drinks will be available at attendees’ own cost.

To RSVP, people can contact Robyn Lardner at 0400 769 900.

Pitching back into community

Amajor music and arts festival near Moyston this weekend is set to donate $30,000 back into surrounding communities for local projects.

Pitch Music and Arts festival, from Friday to Tuesday, blends underground electronic music with art, design and community, and is in its ninth year.

After a disastrous event in 2024, where a 23-year-old man died in hospital from a suspected drug overdose suffered at the festival, and extreme heat and poor organisation saw the festival abandoned midway through its five-day runtime, organisers got the festival back on track in 2025.

In November, the State Government announced that Pitch would be among three live-music events in Victoria to introduce pill-testing facilities.

Pitch event director Pete Sofo said the event, at the foothills of the Grampians National Park, was one of Untitled Group’s favourite festivals, and organisers continued to work with surrounding towns such as Moyston, Mafeking, Willaura and Pomonal to ensure the event was welcomed.

“We have regular communications with the community and keep them updated on the festival and what we’re doing – that’s a really big piece to this whole thing,” he said.

“We also have our community grants program with applications open now.

“Every year we donate $30,000 to support local initiatives, and this is basically to strengthen the longevity and the growth of community-led projects within those towns.

“The wider festival team will look at these after the festival and start issuing successful grant applicants.”

Mr Sofo said connection between the festival and patrons made Pitch special.

“There’s some camping festivals that really dictate where people need to camp and kind of park people in and all that kind of thing – we want people to make their own space and to find their own space,” he said.

“That community spirit doesn’t really happen by accident – we work really diligently and really hard on fostering that connection between our staff and our patrons.”

This year there will be new elements like the Pitch Rock Pool and expanded art initiatives, collaborating with curator Tom Supple who has worked on renowned festivals Dark MOFO and Rising.

“Every year we look to introduce new elements and expand initiatives where possible,” Mr Sofo said.

“Pitch every year for us is an evolution. I think the one thing that we don’t want to do is make it stagnant and keep it the same. Our intention for the festival is for it to grow and change as we grow and change, and as the surrounds do as well.

“The rock pools is an existing watercourse on site that we spoke to the landowner and we’ve cleaned up and added some creative elements to –we can’t wait to launch it.”

Mr Sofo said feedback from festival-goers shaped future music programs and events.

“We’re continually learning about the space, continually wanting to take on board the feedback that our patrons have, because effectively we want them coming back every year and enjoying the festival as much as we do every year,” he said.

People can find out more about the festival at www.pitchfestival.com.au.

HOMES SAVED: A grass fire at Drung was fought from the ground and air on Thursday last week as it spread rapidly and threatened homes on Northern Grampians Road. A man in his 50s was treated by paramedics at the scene for upper and lower body injuries before he was transported to Horsham hospital in a stable condition. Fire brigade volunteers from Brimpaen, Green Lake, Horsham, Laharum, Dadswells Bridge, Lubeck, Wonwondah, Dooen and Jung battled the initial blaze at about 12.30pm. The homes were saved by firefighters.

ROLLOUT: Anthony Schache at Berrigan with the breakaway fuse in February 2025. Berrigan was the first club to receive Barriers Australia rail in the latest rollout.

Coup for Horsham business

A Horsham company is behind one of the Australian racing industry’s largest-ever safety-infrastructure upgrade projects, replacing rails at more than 80 tracks across New South Wales.

Barriers Australia manufactures racing rails made of PVC plastic, designed to increase safety for jockeys and horses compared to older steel rails thanks to a breakaway fuse that allows the rail to break when hit by a fallen jockey or horse.

The company last year won a $5.4-million contract to install PVC running rails at 88 of the state’s 138 racecourses – a total of about 163km of rail – with the project nearing completion.

Barriers Australia director Anthony Schache said it was a tremendous achievement for a Horsham-based company.

“This is the biggest project we’ve won, and it’s the biggest project that’s ever been issued in Australia that I’m aware of. Doing 80 tracks would be by far the biggest rollout,” he said.

“Now all Racing NSW racetracks will have PVC running rail on the course proper. They’ve got a total of 138 racetracks in NSW and this will complete the whole lot.

“The deliveries for the last lot of rails will finish this month. Once we finish doing the running rails on the courses proper, then we’ll go to outside rail and training tracks.

“It’s great to be able to say we can do stuff like this in Horsham.”

Mr Schache said Barriers Australia was one of three companies that supplied most of the country’s PVC running rails.

“If a jockey hits steel posts, basically they’re in a lot of trouble with injury,” he said.

“My rail has been tested in a crash-test facility independently, so when they hit my rail,

a jockey will reduce speed by no more than eight kilometres an hour. If a jockey is pulled up by more than eight kilometres an hour, there is significant risk of injuries, but if they can slide through the PVC posts and the posts break for them, they’ll only receive bruised ribs and a bump on the head.

“Another thing with steel posts is that they’re often concreted in the ground, and horses have been known to impale themselves on the rails.

“People don’t like to see the animals injured in any aspect, so this is a significant improvement for the safety of all participants in the industry.”

Mr Schache said he once received a phone call from a jockey who thanked him for his product.

“She said if it was a steel barrier she hit, she probably wouldn’t have been here to make that phone call,” he said.

“For me I was so proud I was able to contribute towards saving human and equine lives. It feels good to be able to have a significant impact on people’s lives in a high-risk sport.”

Racing NSW chair Saranne Cooke praised Barriers Australia for its work.

“Racing NSW, in conjunction with Racing NSW Country, has worked closely with Barriers Australia on the rollout of the PVC running rail project across country New South Wales,” she said.

Racing NSW executive Michael Buckley said Mr Schache had been ‘instrumental’ to the project.

“As one of three key manufacturers, his business is helping deliver PVC running rail to a majority of the 88 racetracks, ensuring every racecourse in the state benefits from this vital safety upgrade,” Mr Buckley said.

Home dialysis service win

Grampians Health has launched a home-dialysis service following its transition to an independent renal health hub, giving people improved access to kidney care.

Previously supported through Royal Melbourne Hospital, home- dialysis services in the Grampians were managed externally and required patients to travel to Melbourne for specialist care.

The new locally led model means patients can now receive their full care through Grampians Health, with clinical management, medical records and support based in Ballarat.

Grampians Health chief operating officer Ben Kelly said the launch represented a critical step in strengthening regional healthcare services.

“Becoming an independent renal health hub allows us to deliver more comprehensive, locally led care for our communities,” he said.

“The home-dialysis service means patients no longer need to rely on metropolitan hospitals for specialist renal care and can receive safe, highquality treatment closer to home.”

Grampians Health home-dialysis team leader Shaun Finlayson said the transition had changed how care was delivered.

“We’re now supplying a full homedialysis service that is based here at Grampians Health,” he said.

“If a patient becomes unwell, they can be admitted and managed here rather than having to travel to Melbourne for specialised treatment.”

The service currently offers home

peritoneal dialysis, with plans underway to introduce home haemodialysis training in the coming months.

Patients are trained to manage their treatment independently at home, with support from the Grampians Health renal team as needed.

Home dialysis allows people with end-stage renal failure to complete their treatment around work, family and daily life, rather than attending hospital-based dialysis at fixed times.

“Home dialysis provides independence,” Mr Finlayson said.

“It allows people to complete their treatment in their own time, in their own home, and continue living their lives.

“For some patients, that means they can keep working or caring for family.”

The service covers communities across the Grampians Health catchment, including Horsham and other regional areas, ensuring patients can remain closer to home for their care.

“Establishing the service has required significant groundwork, including creating new policies, build-

ing clinical pathways, training staff, and working closely with emergency departments, inpatient wards and allied services across Grampians Health,” Mr Finlayson said.

“We built this service from nothing. It’s been a big body of work, but it’s about creating a model of care that works for our communities and keeps patients closer to home.

“People on dialysis make a huge commitment.

“Our role is to support them in a way that fits their lives, not the other way around.”

Works resume on busy road

Construction crews have returned to Mount William Road to continue road-improvement works on a section between Yalla-YPoora Road and Armstrong Road.

This infrastructure upgrade is being delivered through a $1.25-million investment from Ararat Rural City Council and a $5-million grant from the Federal Government’s Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program to reconstruct the road, making it wider and smoother for trucks, tourists and residents.

As part of the project, workers rebuilt a section of Mount William Road between Gordons Bridge Road and Yalla-Y-Poora Road last year.

Mayor Bob Sanders said the council had deliberately timed the project to minimise disruption to the community.

“We understand how important Mount William Road is for our farming community and tourism operators,” he said.

“Council waited until harvest was complete and the bulk of summer tourist traffic had passed before resuming works.

“This timing helps reduce the impact on local businesses, freight operators and visitors.”

Cr Sanders urged motorists to take extra care when travelling through the area, with the speed limit reduced to 40kmh within the designated work zone to ensure the safety of workers and road users.

He said drivers should factor in potential delays in their travel plans.

“Council thanks the community for its patience and co-operation while works continue. When finished, this busy section of road is going to a much safer and comfortable to use,” he said.

To stay up to date on this project and other council initiatives, people can visit engageararat.vic.gov.au.

Tourism support

Applications for four separate Northern Grampians Shire Council community grants are now open to eligible residents, event organisers and groups.

The council’s tourism events grant stream provides financial and non-financial support to event organisers co-ordinating tourismfocused events that boost economic growth and visitors to Northern Grampians Shire.

It provides grants of up to $10,000 for tourism events that attract more than 500 patrons from outside the municipality; enhance the vibrancy of visitor experiences; celebrate existing and new tourism assets; and promote the region to intrastate, interstate or international markets.

Applications close on Monday, March 9 and people can visit www.ngshire.vic.gov.

au for more information, including eligibility criteria.

Money for projects

Community grants of up to $5000 are available for not-for-profit groups to support projects and community initiatives that contribute to increased social connectedness for residents; safe environments to grow diversity in the shire; positive impacts on physical health, mental health and wellbeing; and provide greater sustainability of community groups and assets.

This year’s grant stream has a focus on participation, inclusion and connection, with applications closing on March 31.

Creative community

Arts and Culture Grants of up to $5000 are available to support projects and community initiatives contributing to an inclusive creative community, through participation; a respected and connected arts community, through raising the profile of arts and culture; or activated town centres and rural communities, through a celebration of place.

Applications close on March 31.

Education fund

The council will again offer creative education fund grants of up to $5000, following the fund’s successful introduction last year.

With a specific focus on fostering opportunities for students, the fund aligns with council priorities to support activities that enable arts and culture participation; raise the profile of arts and culture; or activate places and spaces.

Project ideas include, but are not limited to, art supplies for creative activities, engaging an artist to run a workshop, or hosting, attending or delivering a performance.

Mayor Karen Hyslop encouraged eligible residents, event organisers and groups to prepare applications for ap-

propriate projects. “We are excited to open applications for four community grant streams, which we know offer much-needed and welcomed support for some of the amazing people and projects we have in our shire,” she said.

“Each year, through our annual budget, council sets aside money for grants and sponsorship to help support our community’s goals.

“The funding helps to bring items in our council plans and strategies to life and results in a range of benefits, from supporting local businesses to grow and thrive, to ensuring our community has access to a rich variety of arts, cultural activities and entertainment, to empowering local groups and organisations to deliver great programs and activities for our residents.”

Cr Hyslop said she understood some people might find the grant application process daunting.

“You can talk through your proposal with our tourism, events or community development officers, who can answer any questions and provide support,” she said.

“You can also access a project plan template and grant writing tips in the ‘grants’ section of the council website.”

Cr Hyslop said people could call council on 5358 8700 for more information.

WELCOME: East Grampians Health Service welcomed on site graduate nurses, back row from left, Dongmin Park, Kymberlie Hobby, Tori Langan and Holly Graveson, row two from left, Ashlee Lindsay, Esther Jose, Alanna McFarlane and Mikayla Walker, row three from left, Tegan Price, Kara Johnson, Ameliya Shaju and Elly Galoso, and front, Zali Fox, standing, Apple Cabungcal, Tess Marrow, Rebecca Flack and Jamie Clark. Soniya Silwal was absent.

Embracing new careers

East Grampians Health Service welcomed 11 registered nurses and seven enrolled nurses to complete their 12-month graduate nurse program in February.

Every four months, the graduate nurses will rotate through clinical departments, such as the inpatient unit, peri-operative unit, day-procedure unit, 70 Lowe Street, Garden View Court Hostel, Willaura Health Care and Community Nursing. They will participate in six study days over the course of the year, to develop and enhance their

clinical skills. Debrief sessions are also offered regularly.

Chief executive Nick Bush said the graduate nurses were clinically supported during their shift, and in their study days, by the clinical support nurse-educators who were members of the EGHS education team.

“We hope they enjoy the graduate nurse program, embrace their new careers and choose to pursue future opportunities offered by EGHS,” he said.

Spiders, Black

Donald Mineral Sands is seeking community nominations for the new Donald Rare Earth and Mineral Sands Project Environmental Review Committee.

About ERC

Members will meet periodically to review environmental monitoring data, assess project compliance with environmental conditions, and verify performance against commitments. Terms are two years, renewable.

Who we’re looking for

We welcome nominations from Wimmera residents, landholders, business operators, and community groups with local knowledge and an interest in the project. Membership will also include regulators, government agencies, and other stakeholders.

Sue Horn, Community Engagement Lead sue.horn@donaldmineralsands.com.au

VIC 3392

Nominations are open now and close Friday 27 March 2026. For more details and to apply visit the Donald Project website:

www.thedonaldproject.com.au

Horsham Football Netball Club Inc.

– M ch 15 @ 10am Horsham Football Netball Club is a well-established and successful club located in the heart of Horsham at the Horsham City Oval. The club boasts a strong junior program for both male and female footballers. This year, the season launch will be led by former AFL

The club is looking for additional players for Auskick, U8 and U11 age groups, as well as reserves and senior footballers.

Auskick, U8 and U11 training typically begins at 5pm on Thursday nights at City Oval, with a free meal provided for junior participants after training.

Senior training is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting at 6pm at City Oval.

Please note: Everyone is welcome, and families are encouraged to attend. Children must be supervised at all times.

Ready to cook up a feast

Volunteers preparing to cook for the Ararat region community on Harmony Day this month are busy planning their menus, which are set to showcase dishes from countries including India, the Philippines, Indonesia, Afghanistan and Thailand.

Ararat Neighbourhood house volunteer cooks Ratna Kumala Ambarsari and Gita Egan are among a team of locals volunteering to prepare a smorgasbord of dishes for the free community lunch at Ararat Town Hall on Saturday, March 21 from 10.30am to 1pm.

Originally from different parts of Java, Ms Egan and Ms Ambarsari have worked together to plan a blended menu of traditional Indonesian dishes to complement foods prepared by members of the local Indian, Filipino, Afghan and Thai communities.

“We’ll be cooking foods that are sweet, sour and spicy,” Ms Egan said.

“People can come and try a big variety of Indonesian foods.”

Ms Ambarsari, who has lived in Ararat for nine months, said she was looking forward to being part of the event and meeting more people from the local area.

“Everyone is very friendly here,” she said.

Ms Ambarsari also cooks each week for a local gathering of the region’s Muslim community.

Mayor Bob Sanders said Ararat Rural City Council’s support services for migrants and refugees played

Kaniva plan up for review

West Wimmera Shire Council is inviting community feedback on the draft Kaniva structure plan, which will guide the future growth and development of the town.

The plan sets out a long-term vision for the town, including future land use, housing, infrastructure, transport and town amenities, and identifies areas suitable for development and provides the strategic framework required for any future rezonings.

Key directions in the plan include promoting residential development within the town boundary, reviewing the need for additional industrial and commercial land, exploring future uses for the former airstrip, supporting tourism and short-stay accommodation, and encouraging housing options to support key workers.

Council chief executive David Bezuidenhout said community input was essential to ensure the plan reflected local priorities and aspirations.

“The structure plan will guide how Kaniva evolves over many years, so it is important that residents, businesses and community groups take the opportunity to review the draft documents and share their views,” he said.

“Feedback received will help council refine the plan and ensure future development supports the needs of the community while protecting the character of the town.”

Community members can view the draft Kaniva structure plan and the background report online or at council customer service centres at Edenhope and Kaniva.

a key role in connecting and supporting new arrivals to the Ararat region.

“Not only does our team help new arrivals settle in our municipality and connect them with other resi-

dents from their country, but they also create fantastic opportunities to ensure people feel valued and able to contribute to the local community through events like Harmony Day,” he said.

Event registrations are essential to ensure there is enough food for everyone. Residents can register via the Ararat Town Hall website or in person at the Town Hall box office at Ararat Gallery TAMA.

Feedback can be provided online at www. westwimmera.vic.gov.au/Have-YourSay/ Draft-Kaniva-Structure-Plans before 5pm on March 20.

All submissions received during the consultation period will be considered before the plan is finalised and presented to council for adoption.

TaKE a BrEaK

On This Day

From The Weekly Advertiser archives: March 2, 2006 –The inaugural Elmhurst Festival of the Wind, a free family day full of activities, was being organised by a committee of eight people. A program, featuring several wind-themed activities, featured Kite Man Ted from Port Fairy and international flute player and composer Howlin’ Wind. Committee member Suzanne Harvey is pictured with Carly Preston and Damon Peacock, with Hunter Greene, 4, and his cousin Georgina Greene, 3.

10 years ago: March 2, 2016

Northern Grampians Shire Council won recognition for its innovation after its shared engineering services project won accolades at LG-Pro Awards for Excellence in Melbourne. The service – which involved the council providing skilled engineers for two other Wimmera councils on an as-needed basis and for a fraction of the cost of consultants – won the service deliver initiative category.

Five years ago: March 3, 2021 Horsham Arts Council’s Hugo Hopper, Jan Dunlop, Belinda Elliott, Matthew Bandy, Josh Lloyd, Kerry Bolwell and Natasha Eilola were among those rehearsing for the group’s production ‘When you wish upon a star’. After a 15-month COVID-19-enforced hiatus, they were set to take to the stage at Horsham’s Church of Christ across three days.

One year ago: February 26, 2025

The Goroke community was set to open its 25-year sealed perpetual time capsule at an event that would also launch the town’s historical self-tour. About 75 contributions were made to the time capsule in 2000, following the opening and distribution of its 1973-sealed contents. Max Carter opened the capsule – it was the tradition for the town’s oldest resident to have the honours.

1. Born on this day in 1966 was which Italian-Australian actor, famous for his roles on Police Rescue, Neighbours and Underbelly?

2. Which cartoon mouse, who debuted in 1953, wears a white outfit and yellow sombrero and is known for being quick-witted and heroic?

3. Dan Hartman sang the 1984 song, ‘I can …. about you’ –think, weep, forget or dream?

4. What is a group of flamingos called?

5. Australian Doug Waterhouse is considered a Second World War hero for saving ‘countless’ lives with a product colloquially called ‘Mary’ that went on to become what?

6. Using the Nato phonetic alphabet, which words would you use to spell ‘cat’?

7. In the Harry Potter series, who is the Half-Blood Prince?

8. Which country has the nickname ‘the boot’?

9. Which popular, non-superhero comic book character first appeared in Pep Comics in December 1941?

10. If you are served ‘bangers and mash’, what foods are you eating?

11. Children of the Corn is based on a short story by which author – Thomas Harris, Stephen King or Edgar Allan Poe?

12. Dying of a heart attack on this day in 1994 was which Canadian actor and comedian, known for his roles in Uncle Buck and Cool Runnings?

yOUr LUCKy sTars

FOR THE WEEK MARCH 1 TO MARCH 7

ARIES (March 21 – April 20)

Lucky Colour: Orange Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 2-9-1-7 Lotto Numbers: 2-11-12-23-27-31

This is a period of opportunity, particularly for those prepared to act decisively. A practical and forward-thinking approach will serve you better than wishful thinking. Educational or work-related prospects may offer financial benefits. Stay alert and ready to move when an opportunity arises.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Brown Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 3-2-7-6 Lotto Numbers: 3-12-13-28-36-42

Exercise caution in conversations and written agreements. Thoughtless words or rushed decisions may create complications. It is also a time to reclaim what is owed to you, financially or otherwise. Do not feel obligated to carry the burdens of others.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1-6-2-7 Lotto Numbers: 1-10-29-34-39-42

Fresh ideas are replacing outdated plans. Embrace innovation and avoid remaining on the sidelines. Your adaptability and creativity are strong assets now, particularly in professional matters. Positive adjustments will lead to long-term improvement.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Purple Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2-7-5-9 Lotto Numbers: 2-19-20-35-39-44

Past matters may require attention before you can move forward comfortably. Transparency and honesty are essential, especially in legal or financial situations. Avoid unnecessary risk and take a measured approach to sensitive issues.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Yellow Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1-10-3-5 Lotto Numbers: 1-10-19-28-35-44

Financial pressure may temporarily affect your mood or confidence. Rather than placing blame, review your spending habits and make necessary adjustments. Practical action will restore balance and improve your outlook.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 3-5-7-9 Lotto Numbers: 3-12-30-33-41-43

Answers: 1. Steve Bastoni. 2. Speedy Gonzales. 3. Dream. 4. A flamboyance. 5. Aerogard. 6. Charlie, alpha, tango. 7. Severus Snape. 8. Italy. 9. Archie. 10. Sausages and potato. 11. Stephen King. 12. John Candy. He was 43. Getting in

Our office is at 2 Stawell Road, Horsham. Mail: PO Box 606, Horsham 3402. Telephone: 5382 1351. Website: www.theweeklyadvertiser.com.au Email: weeklyadvertiser@team.aceradio.com.au For classified advertisements: 5382 1351 – email: horsham@aceradio.com.au

Advertising: Mark Sulic: 0407 313 456, marks@team.aceradio.com.au; Lee Meadows: 0407 046 864, leem@team.aceradio.com.au; Kelly Schilling: 0437 894 257, kschilling@aceradio.com.au; Danica Cutter: 0488 473 562, dcutter@aceradio.com.au; Lily Olver: 0411 784 001, lolver@aceradio.com.au; James Davidson: 0439 820 014, jdavidson@aceradio.com.au.

Newsroom 5382 1351: Lauren Henry: lhenry@aceradio.com.au; Bronwyn Hastings: bhastings@aceradio.com.au; Colin MacGillivray: cmacgillivray@aceradio.com.au; Georgia Bailey: georgiab@team.aceradio.com.au

The publisher and general manager is Brendan O’Loughlin, C/- 2 Stawell Road, Horsham, for Ace Radio Broadcasters Pty Ltd, ACN 064 882 042. The Weekly Advertiser is a free paper printed by Newsprinters Pty Ltd, 1 McKoy Street, West Wodonga, and distributed by regional distributors and Australia Post.

Unexpected interruptions may test your patience. Clear communication and firm boundaries will prevent misunderstandings. Maintain your calm approach and avoid reacting impulsively.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 3-2-2-7 Lotto Numbers: 3-22-29-34-39-43

Important decisions require independent thinking; it will be your strongest guide. Avoid relying on unreliable advice. A short break or change of environment may provide the clarity you need.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Orange Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 3-6-6-8 Lotto Numbers: 3-30-33-38-42-45

Financial matters require careful management. An unexpected expense can test your resilience, but a proactive, practical mindset can help restore stability. Consider alternative income options if necessary.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Brown Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 5-9-8-8 Lotto Numbers: 5-14-15-27-31-38

Domestic pressures may feel challenging. Compromise and calm discussion will lead to better outcomes than stubbornness. Keep a clear perspective and focus on long-term solutions.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 3-4-7-8 Lotto Numbers: 3-12-13-20-35-42

Let go of past disappointments and refocus on personal well-being. You have invested significant energy in others. It is time to prioritise your own needs and plans.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 3-7-9-9 Lotto Numbers: 3-12-14-17-27-30

Confidence and charm work strongly in your favour. Professional recognition is possible if you remain focused and organised. This is a constructive time for long-term planning.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Rose Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1-6-5-3 Lotto Numbers: 6-17-19-37-42-44

A long-standing disagreement may now be resolved. Forgiveness and understanding will create space for renewal. Exercise caution with spending and avoid emotional financial decisions.

New SUVs top-score

NEW Chinese-made SUV arrivals to Australia – Denza’s B8 upper large segment plug-in hybrid and the battery electric midsize Hyundai Elexio – have both attained five-star safety ratings from independent crash-test watchdog ANCAP.

Reflecting its close links with the smaller Denza B5 tested by ANCAP in late 2025, the Denza B8 plug-in hybrid’s assessment was partly based on testing of its partner model.

ANCAP says it evaluated comprehensive technical documentation and test results demonstrating comparable safety performance between the two models.

“Due to design differences at the front of the vehicle, additional testing was undertaken on the B8, resulting in a vulnerable road user protec-

tion score of 75 per cent,” it said.

Taking a closer look, the Denza B8 scored 86 per cent for adult protection, 95 per cent for child occupant protection, 75 per cent for vulnerable road user protection and 78 per cent for safety assistance.

ANCAP found the Hyundai Elexio delivered strong protection for other road users, recording solid performance across autonomous emergency braking scenarios involving other vehicles, including motorcycles.

“Following a thorough assessment of technical evidence by ANCAP, the Hyundai Elexio adopts destructive crash test results from the closely related Kia EV5,” the road safety body said in a statement.

The Elexio rated 88 per cent for adult pccupant protection, 86 per cent for child occupant protection, 77 per cent for vulnerable road user protection

and 85 per cent for safety assistance.

ANCAP chief executive Carla Hoorweg stated the latest results reflected continued maturity of active safety technologies designed to prevent crashes.

Ms Hoorweg said both models were equipped with comprehensive suites of autonomous emergency braking and lane support systems as standard, reinforcing the baseline of safety technology available to Australasian consumers.

“Consumers are expecting increasingly comprehensive safety performance from new vehicles in the market regardless of powertrain,” she said.

“These five-star results demonstrate solid occupant protection combined with advanced crash avoidance technology, providing confidence for families and fleet buyers alike.” – Peter Barnwell

Regulator reveals winners, losers

The New Vehicle Efficiency

Standard regulator’s first report found Mazda, Nissan and Subaru amassing the largest liabilities for exceeding fleet average tailpipe CO2 emissions targets, while BYD, Toyota and Tesla were eligible for the lion’s share of credits.

Covering 58 regulated entities – vehicle importers, suppliers and manufacturers – that entered 620,947 vehicles on the register of approved vehicles, RAV, between July 1 and December 31, 2025, the report found 40 entities or 68 per cent beat the 2025 emissions target.

If an entity has an interim emissions value, IEV, below zero, it has met or exceeded the target and accrued NVES units for the 2025 reporting period, while entities with an IEV above zero have accrued NVES liabilities for 2025.

During the second half of last year, more than 17.2-million NVES units were generated, which can be traded with entities that did not meet the target or used to offset potential penalties as the NVES target gets tougher each year.

The regulator’s report outlined the average emissions numbers for each vehicle category – type one being cars, SUVs and light off-road vehicles, and type two being utilities, vans,

and heavy off-road vehicles – as well as the average performance of covered vehicles.

In the 2025 reporting period, 12 per cent of all covered vehicles had zero tailpipe emissions, with 40 entities supplying vehicles in the category.

Of note, it appeared the liabilities of Mazda, Nissan, Subaru and Hyundai vindicated Toyota Australia’s relatively early push toward widespread availability of hybrid technology.

Mazda had 38,465 vehicles recorded on the RAV and accrued 508,517 li-

abilities, the highest of any car-maker, and more than twice that of secondplaced Nissan.

Subaru also fared poorly with 13,187 vehicles recorded and 139,635 liabilities, while Hyundai, with 39,863 vehicles on the RAV and a compelling new energy model offering, sold sufficient high-emitting models to rack up 84,563 liabilities.

At the other end of the scale, BYD had a combined 39,603 vehicles covered on the RAV and an interim emissions value of -6,282,824, followed

by Toyota with 115,504 vehicles and a -2,890,652 IEV score.

Intriguingly, Isuzu Ute Australia finished the first NVES reporting period in the black, despite offering only the diesel-powered D-Max ute and MU-X large SUV, with Ford also staying on the right side of the ledger last year even though the majority of its vehicle sales were Ranger utes and Everest large SUVs.

The results show a net surplus of some 15.9-million NVES units, meaning there is now a market for trading

NVES credits – perhaps critical to the survival of those OEMs with an ICEonly or ICE-heavy range, especially as NVES regulations tighten.

Otherwise, those importers have about two years to address the balance of their liabilities by removing the heaviest polluters from their portfolio. If not, they face an infringement notice and penalty, which will be charged at $50 multiplied by their final emissions value as of February 2028 – doubling to $100 if an entity appeals and loses or fails to pay by the due date.

Type one vehicles, which accounted for 71 per cent of the data, averaged 114 grams per kilometre against a 2025 target of 144g/km and a headline limit of 141g/km, while type two vehicles, the remaining 29 per cent, averaged 199 grams per kilometre against a targeted 214g/km and a headline limit of 141g/km.

In 2026, the target drops to 117g/km for type one vehicles and 180g/hm for type two, tightening each year with a 2029 target of 58g/km for type one and 110g/km for type two.

According to the regulator, the 2025 results indicate the NVES is poised to ‘support more low-emissions vehicles on Australian roads, contributing to a reduction of CO2 emissions in future years’.

– Matt Brogan

Quick Workout

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

Fit the 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.

T and B Flooring

Travis Patten, along with partner Beck McCoy run T and B Flooring, your one-stop shop for the sale and installation of floor coverings, from vinyl to carpet.

Serving the Wimmera, primarily Horsham, Natimuk and Dimboola areas, Travis, with 35 years in the industry, dedicates himself to quality service and using the best modern techniques.

The family-run business supplies and installs all types of floor coverings.

Find our address opposite Horsham City Meats / 89B Wilson Street, enter from Darlot Street.

For a quote or to book call them on 0419 707 196 or email tandbflooring@gmail.com.

LOCAL TRADE DIRECTORY

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

It’s affordable and effective! 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.

Classifieds

BARTLETT, Graeme Sydney

Passed away on February 28, 2026, aged 89 years.

Much-loved son of Henry (dec) and Sylvia (dec).

Loved brother of Shirley Dart (dec) and Bruce.

Adored Uncle to his nieces and nephews. Funeral details to follow.

BOTHE, Maurice Louis ‘Maurie’

Passed away on February 25, 2026, aged 88 years.

Loved husband of Gleniss.

Loving father and father-inlaw to Christine & Graeme; Carolyn & Colin; Michelle & Ray.

Adored Poppy to Jaymi, Megan, Luke, Troy and Tyler.

Old Poppy to Evie, Jordy, Connor and Charlotte.

Treasured Memories

HUGHES,

Robert Arthur (Bob)

Aged 79, passed away peacefully on 22-2-2026, Dimboola, Victoria

Bob was the beloved husband of Kerrie, devoted father to Michelle, Cassie & Trent.

Father-in-law to Tim and Rick.

Grandfather to Ashlee and Nicholas.

Great-grandfather to Dakota, Jax and Giselle.

Bob will be remembered for his dedication to his family and his funny sense of humour.

Bob touched many lives and will be deeply missed by those who knew him.

As per their wishes, a private cremation will be held.

There will be no formal service. The family appreciates your love, support, and understanding during this time.

Emiley & Mathew Bone Nhill, Dimboola & Kaniva District Funerals 0419 008 464

BROWNING,

Peter Arthur

3-4-1945 to 18-2-2026

It is with great sadness that we mourn the sudden loss of our husband, father & uncle.

He will be sadly missed.

Peter was a wonderful husband to Annette, adored father to his son Randal & mate to his nephew Jeffery

Our memories of Peter will be forever in our hearts.

Rest in Peace now Peter

You will be sadly missed.

“KEEP ON TRUCKING”

BROWNING, Peter

Passed away February 18

Brother to Dianne.

Uncle to Natalie and Nicole.

Great Uncle to Elara and Jaz.

Reunited with his mate

McDONALD, Jill Marion

01/12/1943 – 23/02/2026

Passed away peacefully at the Dimboola Nursing Home

Loving Wife & Mother

Reunited with Ray

Jill’s funeral service will be held at the Dimboola

Uniting Church Thursday 12th March at 1pm

To be privately cremated Emiley & Mathew Bone Nhill, Dimboola & Kaniva District Funerals 0419 008 464

PEACHEY, Graham Charles

Passed away on February 23, 2026 aged 75 years.

Loved father of Ricky, Donna, Steven, Aaron, Cindy and their families.

Loving Pa to all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Now At Rest

LAWES,

Daniel Ernest

Daniel Ernest Lawes will be privately cremated.

An informal gathering to celebrate Daniel’s life will be held at a later date.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

PEACHEY,

Graham Charles

The Funeral of Graham

Charles Peachey will take place at The Graveside, Horsham Lawn Cemetery on Friday, 6 March 2026 commencing at 3.30pm.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA

Thank you

~ HOLLAND ~ Ethel

15-4-1928 to 21-12-2025

We wish to extend our gratitude to everyone who reached out to us when our dear mum passed away. Your gestures – whether through phone calls, messages, cards, flowers, visits, attending the funeral or the provision of food – have been greatly appreciated. We are especially thankful to the staff at Lutheran Homes and the medical team in Oxley Ward for the care they provided. Our sincere appreciation also to Susan Hobbs and the HDF team. Please accept our personal thanks.

Jennifer, Suzanne, Maree and the wider family.

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

Budgies, including white to yellow, assorted colours $10 each Ph 0428010996

Kelpie x Staghound male pup, 6.5 months old, sandy colour, microchip # 953010007025025280, vac x 3, basic handling, is affectionate, big, and boisterous, POA Ph 0428994210

Furever Families,

16th of October, raised in a loving

with

May

JENKINSON (nee Hinch), Noelene

Died on 1 March 1, 2026 in Point Lonsdale Victoria after living with cancer for a number of years.

Born on May 27, 1949 in Murtoa Victoria, Noelene was the second and youngest daughter of William Leslie (Bill) Hinch and Verna (nee Schultz).

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Rod; daughters Briony Jenkinson, and Katie Jenkinson and partner Joshua Thistlethwaite; also five grandchildren Amber, Ryder, Ryland, Madden and Jonah.

She also leaves behind her sister and brother-in-law, Val and Ross Wedding and nephews Nathan and Cameron Wedding.

LAWES, Daniel Ernest

Passed away at home at the age of 59 years.

Dearly loved son of Les & Elsie (both dec).

Loved brother of Pat, Tony, Steve, Karen, Gary, Jodie and their families.

Forever In Our Hearts

MAY, Peter Malcom ‘Lumpy’

16/4/1959 - 27/2/2026

Loved Father, Brother & Uncle. Sadly

BOTHE

Maurice Louis ‘Maurie’

The Funeral of Maurie

Bothe will take place at The Graveside, Horsham Lawn Cemetery on Thursday, 5 March 2026 commencing at 10am.

Trevor Bysouth & Daughter Ph 5381 1444 AFDA Member

JENKINSON, Noelene May

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Noelene May Jenkinson will be held at 360Q, 2 Wharf Street East, Queenscliff on FRIDAY (13 March) at 2pm

A private family burial will precede this service.

For livestream details, or to leave a message of condolence, please visit Noelene’s eTribute on our website.

and

dogs, cats and farm animals have

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

The Weekly Advertiser welcomes your advertising.

We are required strictly by law to include specific information on some items when publishing your adv your obligations are as follows:

ANIMALS -

*All “for sale” or “to give away” advertisements, for either cats or dogs must include one of the following:

• Individual microchip numbers

• Vet certificate to exclude individual animals from needing microchips

• Domestic animal-business number

PLUS a source number from the Pet Exchange Register

LIVESTOCK -

Mini Foxy/Jack Russell pups 5 males, vet checked, vacc, wormed, micro chipped, 953010006692905/ 953010006635913/953010006635 784/953010006635783/95301000 6689902, Source# is MB116953 Ph 0409350743 or 0458913225 Mini Foxy/Jack Russell pups, 2 male, vacc and microchipped, source number EE283776 Ph 0488976777

Pet care for female

in Horsham fortnightly for 3 hours while I grocery shop Ph David 0427864628

vaccinated, PIC# 3YKM L014 Ph 0428994210 Warracknabeal

*Selling, giving away or bartering of all livestock must include a Property Identification Code (PIC number) in the advertisement.

*The

REDUCED 2010 Paradise Grande Caravan, length over all 25 foot, dual air conditioning, washing machine, fridge freezer, full annex, van in VGC, host of extras, $25,000 inspection invited Ph 0417580747

Slasher 3PL J.Berands EP135, 4’6’’ cut wheel kit as new $2300, Small Bale Pickup loader Irish

$120, Hay Stack Elevator $120, PH 0427 871 404

Small square bale hay stack elevator $120 Ph 0494034244

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 2018 Franklin Core 22’, one owner, excellent condition, gas heater, twin bunks, washing machine, $1000+ extras, $57,000 Ph 0401986201

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

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

Bath Cast Iron, EC Pale Pink $200 Ph 53826461 or 0429 309 491

Bikes one ladies, one mans, good order, $170 each ono Ph 0429820692

Camper Trailer , all excellent condition $1500 Ph 0478254195

CCE cage on wheels 6x4 well made $400 ono, 500 gallon ex fuel tank $100 ono, Coolgardie safe $100 ono, Ute crate, 6x4 tub tight $50 ono, Bailey extension ladder 5.3 extends to 6.3 $500 ono, new

Holland Mower GC with parts, 44g drums ideal for grain feeding cattle, best offer Ph 0429857207

Chook house , 1500mm wide 1400H x 1200L, nest box attached, keep your chooks safe from predators, $250 Ph 53583400

Electric motor, working order $80 Ph 0428504301

FOR SALE Teak TV Cabinet 2

shelves 2 glass doors at bottom, 151H x 104W x 700 as new

$60, large towing mirrors $40 Ph 0409967815 pick up Horsham. Four arm walker , $150 ph0437600095

Fresh Farm eggs! $5 a dozen Ph 0423182267

Gold and opal ring, approx 80yrs old, current valuation $4500 would like $1000 Ph 0458014560

Industrial Extensions Ladder (Gorilla), closed 3.7 EXT 8.5 $475, Ph 53826461 or 0429 309 491

Kayak Dragon, 3.6m, 2.5 seater, green & white, very good condition, support seats, paddles, buoyancy vests, $450 Ph 0407340345

L shaped lockable 5 glass shelf display case, with 5 downlights, 500mm lockable storage at bottom, 2.125 mm x 3.180mm x 400mm wide x 2.14mm high, $6200 ono, or lay by, can be dismantled to a flatpack, MINERALS NOT INCLUDED Ph 0428564422

Masseuse Therapeutic Dual-Pro massage chair, 2 yrs old, as new, cost $11,000 sell $5,000 ono Ph 0413832765 Ararat

Pea straw small square bales

$8 per bale, great garden mulch, pickup or delivery to Ph 0488303725

Portable air compressor , new, $1500 firm, 4 x Cooper tyres, LT235/85R16 $400 Ph 0407340961

Radial arm saw bench OMGA 240v, tungsten blade, $460 Ph 0428535646

REDUCED 7x4 tool trailer, $2500 ono Ph 0407285097

Toro zero turn 42 inch deck, 2 years old, just had full service with new blades, great condition, less than 15hrs use, $6000ono Ph Tim 0418258787

15’ fibreglass clinker inboard boat, no motor, make an offer Ph 0407179433

16’ Yacht TS16 446, 2 & 6 HP

Suzuki OB`s, 2 sets of sails, Dunbier tilt trailer U58751, reg TS446

REDUCED Toyota Coaster camper, 2 seater, diesel heater, 1hz motor, solar and 12v awning much more $30,000 Ph 0418325662 Sentiveco daily/5th wheeler combo, set up for off grid, too many extras to list, was $102,000 now $97,000 Ph 0438149265

Trailer, approximately 6x4, low capacity, new tyres and LED lights $600 Ph 0418148650 Ararat

Wood Heater Flues, 4 x 150mm (6’’) Dia, x 900mm SS inner flues, with 2 x cowls (for changeover) 2 x 200mm gal inner roof sections, 2 x 200mm. Decorative, recently Powder-coated black flue guard sections, with matching black ceiling ring, excellent condition $320 Ph 0427042750 Nhill

Wood Thicknesser, Barker 2’, AE

Herbert 1’ buzzer, sold together $2000 Ph 53524764

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

REDUCED 1988 BMW 320i convertible , 6cyl.5sp manual, recently unregistered, always serviced and undercover, original paint, drives beautifully, extras, engine# 206KA25194243, 240,000kms $18,000 non-negotiable Ph 0438297899

2018 Toyota Landcruiser Prado GXL , auto, 4x4, EC, 1LZ3FW, 190,000kms $39,500 Ph 0431603221

2019 Jaguar 25 F Pace R Sport sedan , R/W, gen reason for sale, EC, AWP498, $26,000 Ph 0428382790

2019 XL Ford Ranger, white 4x4, ute/steel tray and locked undertray boxes, RWC, bull bar, tow bar, snorkel, rear camera, gen reason for sale, EC, 89,761kms, 1RO-7EC $42,000 Ph 0428382790

REDUCED Nissan Navara ST 4x2 2018, automatic diesel, white color, very good condition, engine 2.3L 4Cyl, service car at 121,654km, canopy , front bar sport, one new tyre, towbar, one owner, registered till 28 June 2026 in Vic, 1PR4MJ, 150,500km $20,500 Ph 0434282826

Toyota Troopcarrier, 2005 1HZ, 3 seat, cruise control, diff locks, winch, bullbar, LED spotlights, twin batteries, solar panel, drawers/ shelves, 16” sunraysias, one owner since new, 1RY5UP, 296,000kms $38,000ono Ph 0427790754

Fiji-Indian woman, 50, caring, gentle, family-oriented and never married, hopes to meet a sincere Australian man (60–75) who is financially secure, owns his home, and seeks a genuine companion for marriage and shared care. She values kindness, loyalty, and a peaceful home life. Ready to provide care Ph +679 923 2717 or email fijirose1010@gmail.com, and PO BOx 5353 Lautoka Fiji address

49 year old separated/single true gentleman bloke from Horsham who likes reading, music, occasionally going out for dinner then next the movies or watching movies at home, fishing and camping, walking and swimming, looking for 48+ old lady for serious relationship Ph 0491230835

Wanted Land to share-farm or lease anywhere south of Horsham and accross to the Grampians, from 50 to 600 acres, cropping country preferred Ph Roger Hallam at Mockinya

Tenders are invited from cleaning contractors to clean the Warracknabeal Education Precinct 3 Schools, 1 Site Cleaners must be listed on the Department’s Contract Cleaners Panel. Register attendance on 03 5398 1433 Inspections – Friday, March 13, 2026 (ONLY) Contract documents will be available at that time. Expressions of Interest close on March 20, 2026

Winemaking prompts a question about life.

Do you know that you must pour new wine into new wineskins? Wineskins were made of animal hide and stretched as wine fermented. An old wineskin that’s already at its limit would burst if filled with new wine. This is a principle frequently used in winemaking during Jesus’ time.

At first, this image may feel distant to modern readers, but it carries a meaningful truth for our lives today. Many of us look back on our past with fondness while viewing the future with less excitement. We quietly believe our best days are behind us and find ourselves longing for “the good old days.”

In Matthew 9, Jesus draws a parallel between winemaking and how we approach our lives. Jesus reminds the audience that both the “old” and the “new” season of our lives matter.

The word preserved was applied to both “new and old wine”. Meaning, each has its place and purpose in God’s plan. In the same way, no season of our lives is wasted—even when it feels like the best has passed. God lovingly shapes every chapter of our story. Though change can feel uncomfortable, God is with us, restoring what was and preparing us for what’s next. As He pours out new wine—a new work or season—He also renews us, strengthening us to

notes

• Support compliance documentation, safety processes, and reporting

What We’re Looking For

• Strong organisational and multitasking abilities

• Excellent communication and customer service skills

• Confidence working in a busy office with moving priorities

• Competence with computer systems

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Positive attitude, reliability, and willingness to learn

Receptionist / Administation Support

Immediate Start | Applications close 20/03/2026

Unless filled prior | Full-time

Laser Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Cooling Horsham is seeking a friendly and organised individual to join our administration team.

This fast-paced, front-facing role suits someone who enjoys being the first point of contact for customers, managing enquiries and bookings, and supporting our team to keep operations running smoothly.

Qualified Refrigeration Mechanic

Immediate Start | Applications close 31/3/2026

Unless filled prior | Full-time

Laser Heating & Cooling Horsham is seeking a fully qualified refrigeration mechanic to join the growing team. This hands-on role is ideal for a fully qualified technician who takes pride in delivering high-quality workmanship and exceptional customer service. You will be responsible for diagnosing faults, carrying out installations, servicing and maintenance, and ensuring all work is completed safely and efficiently.

A position has become available in Stawell for a qualified or competent operator.

Please send your resume to: jeff@ricksteel.com.au

during business hours.

HEAVY VEHICLE MECHANIC Field & Workshop

Inroads (part of VSA Roads) has grown into one of the largest bituminous sealing companies in Victoria, with a proven track record of innovation and specialty work throughout Western Victoria and South East South Australia.

This full-time position located in Horsham, is a genuine opportunity to be part of an organization experiencing continuous growth.

We are seeking a quali ed and/or experienced Heavy Vehicle Mechanic – Field & Workshop to join our maintenance team.

The successful applicants should possess the following attributes:

• Suitably trade quali ed with experience on diesel engines, preferred

• Light and heavy vehicle and machinery repairs and preventative maintenance

• Ability to demonstrate safe work practices

• Maintaining the workshop to a high standard

• Liaise with other staff members and suppliers

• Work well in a team, show initiative and be responsible

• Accurate record keeping

• Be able to travel when required

You must be able to work exible hours to meet operational requirements, some weekend work may be required.

An attractive full-time hourly rate plus overtime and allowances, a fully maintained service vehicle, mobile phone and company iPad are supplied.

For further information contact on 5382 4406, or forward your resume to:

• Email: reception@inroads.com.au

• Post: P.O. Box 708, Horsham VIC 3402

• In person: 8 Bracken Street, Horsham VIC 3400

Full on-the-job training is provided, alongside existing receptionist and works coordinators, ensuring you are fully supported.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer and manage incoming phone calls, emails, and customer enquiries

• Schedule service bookings and support daily job coordination

• Provide high-level administrative support to other absences

• Provide friendly, professional front-desk suport and assist with compliance and reporting

• Support technicians and office staff with day-to-day administrative needs

What We’re Looking For

• Friendly, professional, and customer-focused attitude

• Strong organisational and multitasking skills in a busy office environment

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

• Comfortable using computer systems and learning new software

• Reliable, proactive, and able to work independently and as part of a team

For the full job description or more information please call the office on (03) 5382 1375 or email your resume to: hrwhs.horsham@laserelectrical.com.au

Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Cooling

Laser Horsham

89 Plumpton Road, Horsham Phone: 03 5382 1375 horsham@laserelectrical.com.au Plumbing Lic: 23112 REC: 14579 ARC: 26861

You’ll work alongside an experienced and supportive team of technicians and coordinators who value professionalism, reliability, and strong technical expertise.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in establishing job requirements from drawings and specifications

• Installing new heating & cooling units

• Repairing and maintaining existing units and systems

• Checking and overhauling refrigeration systems, diagnosing faults and repairing/replacing defective components

• Maintain a high standard of customer service and housekeeping

What We’re Looking For

• Motivated and dynamic team player that demonstrates effective, open communication and strong collaborative skills

• Innovative and logical, with commitment to continuous improvement

• Strong sense of responsibility and integrity, striving to achieve your department’s goals and objectives

For the full job description or more information please call the office on (03) 5382 1375 or email your resume to: hrwhs.horsham@laserelectrical.com.au

Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Cooling

HOT COMPETITION: Swimming competition across the Wimmera is heating up, with hundreds of school students taking to the water as part of School Sport Victoria competitions. SSV hosted joint Black Ranges and Little Desert area primary and secondary swimming championships last week, with the top swimmers from both competitions bound for the Greater Western Region championships on March 25 in Horsham. Club swimmers are also gearing up for a season finale, with the Swimming Victoria Wimmera District Championships to be at Horsham on March 14. The event will crown season champions from Wimmera district 12 clubs based in Ararat, Horsham, St Arnaud, and Warracknabeal. Pictured in action are, clockwise from above: Charlie Gregson of St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Warracknabeal; Hylton Penfold, Horsham College; Alyssa Townsend, Ararat College; Abel Neumann, Wimmera Lutheran College; Almaco Galoso, Marian College; and Eve Johnstone, Wimmera Lutheran College. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

DEMONSTRATION DAY: Horsham

Fire Brigade hosted Warracknabeal, Stawell, Ararat and Hamilton teams across 10 events in three age brackets at the CFA District 17 demonstration on Saturday. Hamilton’s under-14s team won the aggregate with 49 points, followed by Warracknabeal on 45, and Ararat and Horsham both on 15. In the under17s event, Warracknabeal A’s 67 points put them ahead of Hamilton on 32, Horsham, 15, and Warracknabeal B, 14, while Warracknabeal won the senior aggregate with 141 points, ahead of Horsham on 98. Pictured are, clockwise from above: Piper Ryan, Horsham; Joe Thompson, Warracknabeal; Amity Simmons, Horsham; and James Letts, Horsham.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

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Hannan’s CRB early pacesetter

BY DAVID BERRY

Jack Hannan’s CRB team is the early pacesetter after two rounds in Volleyball Horsham’s A Grade competition.

Drawing on inspiration from their 1970s namesakes, Hannan’s team has accounted for both Kurri Blue in three-sets and Illusions in four-sets in successive weeks to head the ladder.

Hannan and setter Noah Werry have not wasted any time in building a connection, while Alex Baker has returned after the break in great touch, providing support to his two experienced teammates.

While CRB bounced out of the blocks, Dimitrios Vettos’ Nuggets showed they will be a key factor in this season’s finals equation with a hard-fought nail-biting win, first up over Nathan Berry’s Kurri Blue.

Kurri Blue fought back from 22-24 down in the first set to win 26-24, while Nuggets learnt from their first-set loss to win the second from 22-22 to level the match at one set each.

Tyler Puls then busted the third set wide open with his trademark swinging lefty jump serves, opening up a seven point lead early, which was a bridge too far for Kurri Blue to get back – Nuggets now leading two sets to one with time left to play.

Vettos said very little separated the two teams in the fourth and when time expired, Kurri Blue edged ahead by a point 25-24 leaving the set tied, resulting in Nuggets winning two sets to one.

“It was good to get that win under our belts first up, and we will only get better once key opposite Tory Chapple and number one middle Loucas Vettos return,” he said.

Dimitrios Vettos was full of praise for A

Grade debutant Amelia Van Buuren.

“Millie stepped into her setting role like a seasoned veteran and will only get better as the season progresses. I was really impressed with how she played,” he said.

Former Latrobe Uni state league player

Michaela Page has wasted no time on impacting the Women’s A competition, with her team Odder T’s steamrolling the opposition in the first two rounds to head the ladder.

Page has been well supported by the returning Delaney Bray, with the two experienced players combining well.

Tayla Eltze’s Tweeties are hot on the heels of Odder T’s on the ladder in second place, while Phantoms have also won both of their games to sit third.

Von Steiger Sisters are the pace setters in the Women’s B competition, with Josie Ponseca and Venjie Munn in good touch.

Lions win way into finals

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Swifts-Great Western will make its Horsham Cricket Association A Grade finals debut after a wild end to the home-and-away season on Saturday.

The Lions entered the final round of two-day matches in fifth place, with Donald-Jeffcott sitting in fourth.

With identical win-loss records, Swifts-Great Western was hoping for a Donald-Jeffcott loss, but the DJ side took care of business against BrimKellalac-Sheep Hills, claiming firstinnings points by two wickets.

It left an outright win as the Lions’ only option, but the home side had its work cut out for it after resuming 39 runs short of first-innings points on Saturday.

Jesse Eckel’s early dismissal for 10 brought Jack Cann to the crease, and Cann soon had the scoreboard ticking over in an unbeaten innings of 34 that included two sixes.

The Lions declared at 6-168 with a first-innings lead of 18 runs, tasking their bowlers with finding quick wickets.

After a promising early partnership from the Tigers, the Swifts-Great Western attack struck, with Wil Clough picking up the early wickets of Gavin Brown, five, and Ricci Marks, duck, while Ethan Marrow had Janith Herath for 21 to leave the visitors 3-31.

Danger man Tyler Puls was another key wicket for the Lions, trapped in front for 12 by Matt Heffer.

But a superb partnership of 73 from

Archie Knight, 31, and Sam Leith, 38 not out, seemed destined to dash Swifts-Great Western’s hopes.

It was only a late flurry of wickets from Jayden McCartney, who took 3-7 in six overs, that gave the home side a chance, as the final four Tiger batsmen fell for a combined eight runs, while Harvey Brown did not bat.

The Tigers’ 9-128 put immense pressure on Swifts-Great Western, which required 111 runs for victory with only about 15 overs remaining in the day’s play.

Lions skipper Aiden Graveson was up for the challenge, opening the batting and making an unbeaten 67 from 40 balls, including four sixes and five fours. While Graveson lost opening partner Jacob Dunn for two, Zach Marrow was equally brilliant at number three, blasting 44 runs from 18 balls faced, with four sixes of his own.

The Lions raced to 1-114 in less than 11 overs, securing an unlikely finals berth.

The result negated Donald-Jeffcott’s own strong performance, after the DJ Boys successfully chased BKSH’s 10156.

It became a tricky run chase for the home side after a strong opening partnership from Cooper Anderson, 43, and Dylan Ruurds, 22.

When Koby Westerland and Lachie Jones fell for 10 and 14 respectively, the match appeared to be in the balance with DJ at 4-103.

But a captain’s knock of 36 not out from Eddie Landwehr helped right

the ship. Landwehr guided the home side to 8-160 despite losing a string of partners as Eagle bowler Lachlan McGinniss finished with 5-70.

The result saw Brim-Kellalac-Sheep Hills, which spent most of the season in finals contention, drop all the way to eighth after Colts’ huge 169-run win against Laharum.

Chasing a huge target of 287 – set thanks to Logan Millar’s knock of 126 – the Demons were unable to string partnerships together, with wickets falling regularly and no batsman reaching 20 runs.

Colts captain Jake Mclean helped wrap the match up with figures of 4-18, helping his side vault to a sixthplace finish after spending much of the season in the cellar.

The beaten Demons missed a chance to overtake second-place NoradjuhaToolondo, which suffered a 111-run first-innings loss to West Wimmera.

The Warriors’ bowling attack was clinical, with Austin Merrett taking 6-20 from nine overs to bowl the Bullants out for 74.

The final match of the round was rained out, with a potential victory for winless wooden spooner St Mary’s going begging against Lubeck-Murtoa.

The results set up an intriguing set of two-day semi-finals, with West Wimmera taking on Swifts-Great Western at Horsham City Oval, while the Bullants play Laharum at Stawell’s Central Park.

West Wimmera’s sole loss this season came against Swifts-Great West-

ern in a one-day game in round seven, although the Warriors were below full strength in the clash.

Meanwhile, the Bullants’ only meeting with Laharum came in round two, with Noradjuha-Toolondo winning by 37 runs.

Other grades

B Grade finals will see minor premier Rup-Minyip take on Horsham Tigers in a two-day game at Coughlin Park, with Swifts-Great Western playing Horsham Saints in the other semi-final.

The Blue Panthers will seek to reverse a 94-run loss to the Tigers in round nine, while the Saints have beaten the Lions in two of their three meetings this season, including last month’s one-day grand final.

Swifts-Great Western will make it finals appearances across the board in C Grade, where its minor premier side will take on Rhymney-Moyston at Minyip Recreation Reserve in a one-day game.

Laharum will play Halls Gap in the other semi-final at Horsham’s Dimboola Road Oval.

Junior grand finals are set for Horsham City Oval on Monday after an anticlimactic weekend saw semi-finals rained out. With no results recorded, teams advanced based on ladder position, with an under-14 grand final to pit Noradjuha-Toolondo against Horsham Tigers at 9am, while the under-16 decider will feature the Dunmunkle Renegades and Horsham Tigers from noon.

Horsham hosts two days of competition

Visitors from Stawell, Nhill, Timboon, Hamilton, Portland, Bordertown, Heywood, Ballarat, Rainbow and Mildura golf clubs played in tournaments at Horsham Golf Club on Thursday and Friday.

Horsham women hosted the Carlin and Gazzard Pinehurst in great weather on Thursday, with Marg Moore and Trudy Parker winning with 72 nett on countback from Libby O’Callaghan and Jennifer

Murphy, of Stawell. Third was Rae Bound, Nhill, and Debbie Simpson with 72.62 nett; fourth Julie Neumann and Sally Hood with 73.62 nett on countback; scratch: Judy Walsh and Donna Weller, of Timboon, with 83.

Nearest-the-pins were: 2nd: Libby O’Callaghan, Stawell, Julie Neumann; 8th: Judy Walsh, Timboon, Julie Wirth; 11th: Bin Barras, Bordertown, Annabelle Plowright; 13th:

Lucy Cumming, Portland, and Trudy Parker.

On Friday, Horsham Doors and Glass Golden Putter 4BBB Par was won by Rae Bound, of Nhill, and Debbie Simpson, with a great score of 10-up.

Runner-up was Kim Ingram and Mary Delaney, of Mildura, with eight-up on countback; third Tania Dignan and Fiona Boswell, of Stawell, with eight-up on countback;

fourth Lil Mayer and Kerry Henry with eight-up; and fifth Kim Fulcher and Lorraine Melville with seven-up on countback.

Nearest-the-pins were: 2nd, Donna Weller, of Timboon, and June Crabtree; 8th, Roslyn Brunton, The Vines, Reynella South Australia, and Lisa Jakobi; 11th, Mary Delaney, Mildura, and Lisa Jakobi; 13th Jenni Pike, of Hamilton, and Julie Neumann.

Inaugural Running of the Bulls

All is coming together for Victoria’s first harness slot race to take place this Sunday at Birchip.

The inaugural $125,000 Cargill Cares Running of the Bulls will feature a carefully crafted field of emerging types and country warriors, with the final field set to be announced this morning.

The pacers need to be at least four years old and rated 90 or below, unless they have not won a $15,000 race at any point in their career.

The 10 slot-holders were announced in December and include a mix of industry participants and supporters, sporting clubs, friends and family.

They are: Giddy Up With Gareth Hall – SEN; Fillies In Charge; DunnEzy Seed Cleaning; Birchip-Watchem Football Club; Murchison-Toolamba Football Netball Club; Lewis Family, Ashwood Racing; Coffey Family; Crown Lodge Racing; and Cargill Cares For Community.

The Running of the Bulls will be the final race at Birchip’s once-a-year meeting on Sunday and will complement the pacing and trotting cups.

Birchip Harness Racing Club has a weekend of activities planned with a Calcutta scheduled at the Birchip Hotel on Saturday night, followed by a family-friendly day out on Sunday. There will be live music by Pity the Fool on the lawn, followed by Run Bella Run after the last race and into the evening, plus free children’s activities including face-painting and rock climbing, and food trucks.

Fashions on the field is set to be a highlight with categories for women, men and children, as well as a punters club and bookmakers for those keen on the races.

A free shuttle bus will run to and from the event.

For more information, people can visit www.facebook.com/ events/1511746663642992.

Croquet results

Horsham Golf Croquet’s competition on Saturday last week saw Gary Devlin take out division one ahead of runner-up Marg Pope.

June Liddy won division two, with Gwen McCartney and Elaine Nicholls runners-up, while Kerrie Brody and Robyn Devlin were division three’s leaders.

Ian Rees won division one of Thursday’s competition the week prior, with David Wortley the runner-up.

Greg Phillips and Rosemary Rees led division two, while Robyn Devlin and Bev Keogh took division three honours.

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Brought to you by

Weather leaves junior finals pending

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Wet weather caused havoc in the first week of Central Wimmera Tennis Association finals, with many junior matches left unfinished.

While senior A Special, A Grade and B Special finals proceeded as planned, five of the 18 scheduled junior semi finals were washed out.

Both junior open semi finals were abandoned and will be rescheduled, with one section-one boys’ final and both section-five match-play finals also called off due to the rain.

In the matches that achieved a result, Haven 3-25, defeated Horsham Lawn Gold 3-20 in the division-one boys’ second semi-final, while the sectionone girls’ competition saw Horsham Lawn White defeat Haven 3-28 to 2-21 and Horsham Lawn Gold 5-35 beat Horsham Lawn Green 1-19.

Section-two boys’ finals resulted in Horsham Lawn Gold 4-27 beating Haven 1-23 and Horsham Lawn Green 3-28 besting Central Park 3-27, while in the girls’ draw Natimuk Blue 4-28 defeated Horsham Lawn Red 2-23 and Horsham Lawn White 4-28 downed Haven 2-19.

The boys’ section-three draw resulted in Horsham Lawn Gold defeating intraclub rival Horsham Lawn Green by a single game, 3-29 to 3-28, while Haven Blue 4-31 bested Central Park 2-27 in the other final.

Girls’ section-four matches saw Horsham Lawn 4-31 defeating Haven 2-17 and Homers 6-36 accounting for Central Park 0-9.

Junior match play in section six saw Horsham Lawn Green 3-53 advancing to the grand final by defeating

Horsham Lawn White 3-45, while Horsham Lawn Gold 4-52 beat Central Park 2-37.

In senior A Special results, Central Park punched its ticket to the grand final by defeating Horsham Lawn O’Connor 7-92 to 7-85, while Lawn

Horsham Sports & Community Club

O’Connor will regroup ahead of a preliminary final against Horsham Lawn Dorman, which beat Brimpaen 9-83 to 5-77.

The first A Grade semi-final went the way of Haven Red, which beat Central Park 9-85 to 3-58. The Parkers

will now face Horsham Lawn Tigers, which thrashed Horsham Lawn McGennisken 11-94 to 1-50 to advance from the second semi final.

B Special finals were also one-sided, with Laharum besting Central Park 14-90 to 2-44 in the first match, while Horsham Lawn Savage 14-91 was far too strong for Horsham Lawn Bardell 2-39 in the second.

The final round of pennant competition was abandoned due to the rain, with minor premier Central Park advancing directly to the grand final while Horsham Lawn and St Michaels will do battle in a preliminary final. There are no scheduled matches this weekend, with preliminary finals to be played on March 13 and 14.

With several junior finals yet to be completed, the association had only finalised its senior draws as of yesterday afternoon.

All senior finals will be at Haven, with the pennant match between Horsham Lawn and St Michaels to played on courts one, two and three.

A Special will see Horsham Lawn O’Connor play Horsham Lawn Dorman on courts seven, eight and nine;

A Grade sides Central Park and Horsham Lawn Tigers will meet on courts 10, 11, 12; and the B Special final between Central Park and Horsham Lawn Savage Haven will be on courts four, five and six.

Results

Seniors

Pennant: Kalkee forfeited to Horsham Lawn; Central Park drew with St Michaels – washout.

A Special: Semi-final one: Central Park 7-92 d Horsham Lawn O’Connor 7-85; semi-final two: Horsham Lawn Dorman 9-83 d Brimpaen 5-77.

A Grade: Semi-final one: Haven Red 9-85 d Central Park 3-58; semi-final two: Horsham Lawn Tigers 11-94 d Horsham Lawn McGennisken 1-50.

B Special: Semi-final one: Laharum 14-90 d Central Park 2-44; semi-final two: Horsham Lawn Savage 14-91 d Horsham Lawn Bardell 2-39.

Juniors

Open: Semi-final one: Central Park White v Central Park Blue – incomplete due to rain; semi-final two: Central Park Yellow v Horsham Lawn Green – incomplete due to rain.

Section 1 Boys: Semi-final one: Haven 3-25 d Horsham Lawn Gold 3-20; semi-final two: Central Park v Horsham Lawn White – incomplete due to rain.

Section 1 Girls: Semi-final one: Horsham Lawn

White 3-28 d Haven 2-21; Horsham Lawn Gold 5-35 d Horsham Lawn Green 1-19.

Section 2 Boys: Semi-final one: Horsham Lawn Gold 4-27 d Haven 1-23; semi-final two: Horsham Lawn Green 3-28 d Central Park 3-27.

Section 2 Girls: Semi-final one: Natimuk Blue 4-28 d Horsham Lawn Red 2-23; semi-final two: Horsham Lawn White 4-28

from 6am to 9am

‘Exciting new chapter for sport’

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Horsham City Oval’s $3-million redevelopment project of netball courts, lighting, pavilion and amenities was officially opened by Labor Senator for Victoria Jana Stewart and Horsham Mayor Brian Klowss last week.

The build, funded by Sport and Recreation Victoria, the Federal Government Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, and Horsham Rural City Council, was started in 2024 by Horsham-based Locks Constructions.

At the opening, Kira Marks-Lovett and Austin King welcomed attendees to country, before Mr King performed a smoking ceremony.

“Traditionally, smoking ceremonies are an ancient custom used by Aboriginal Australians,” Mr King said.

“They cleanse people and space, ward off bad spirits, and promote the wellbeing of participants and the land.”

Senator Stewart thanked those involved, saying sport was more than just a pastime in country towns.

“It’s where young people boost confidence, it’s where leaders are shaped, and where lifelong friendships are formed on netball courts and footy grounds just like this,” she said.

“I know how important funding projects like this are – we know there are

as their male counterparts.

“They’re still getting changed in cars or on the sidelines, and they don’t always feel fully welcomed at their club.

“So, when we invest in facilities like these, we send a clear message to women and girls that you deserve

safe, modern, secure and respectful places, to play, lead, and succeed.”

The Federal Government Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program contributed more than $1.4million, council $1.6-million and Sport and Recreation Victoria $800,000.

“It’s such a great example of what’s possible when you have all levels of government pointing together to sup-

INVESTED: Labor

Senator for Victoria

Jana Stewart, Horsham Rural City Council chief executive Gail Gatt, Mayor Brian Klowss and Barenji Gadjin Land Council on-country operations manager

Colin Gorton.

port things of the community,” Ms Stewart said.

“The space is so well-thought out – it’s such a great example of how local councils really do know their communities.

“We know that community is absolutely the heart of regional towns, and sport is where the heart beats strongest. That’s why investments like

these count.” Cr Klowss said the day marked an exciting new chapter for sport in Horsham.

“The redevelopment of these netball facilities demonstrates what can be achieved when all levels of government, community, organisations and local leaders work together with a shared vision,” he said.

“The facilities provide safe, modern and accessible spaces for players, officials and spectators alike, and will host countless matches, training sessions, school competitions and community events.

“More importantly, they will support the development of young athletes, encourage participation and provide a welcoming environment for women in our community.”

Dignitaries and community representatives at the opening also included Horsham Rural City councillors, Barenji Gadjin Land Council staff, and representatives from the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly, Netball Victoria, AFL Wimmera Mallee, and Horsham Demons Football Netball Club.

The pavilion is known as Hocking Street Community Pavilion.

As a council-owned facility, it will be available for a wide range of community uses beyond netball, supporting clubs, events and local organisations across the region.

Business Administration Traineeship

Stawell – Applications close: 10 Mar 2026

• Work and learn with a well-established business

• Gain hands on office and customer service experience

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Support daily operations, deliver quality service, manage data & grow your skills while completing a nationally recognised qualification.

Is this you?

• Great and friendly customer service

• Excellent communication skills in both verbal and written form

• Willing to obtain a Police Check

For more information, please contact David Crooks on 0418 564 890

General Labourer

Horsham – Applications close: ASAP

• Competitive EBA rates

• 4-day work week, Tuesday to Friday

• Immediate start available

Support civil works and infrastructure with hands-on labour, plant operation and maintenance. White Card and HR licence preferred.

Requirements:

• Plant Competencies desirable

• Physically equipped to undertake repetitive manual labour

• Current Police Check & Working with Children’s Check

For more information, please contact Tamira Cullinan on 0408 109 324

Civil Construction Apprenticeship

St Arnaud – Applications close: 10 Mar 2026

• 3 year full time apprenticeship with structured training and support

• Great work/life balance with a 9-day fortnight

• Hands on experience working alongside skilled industry professionals

Develop practical civil construction skills through hands on maintenance, plant operation and structured training with strong local industry support. Is this you?

• Have a Construction Induction White Card

• Reliable and enjoy hands-on physical work

• Good communication skills & ability to work in a team

For more information, please contact David Crooks on 0418 564 890

Kindergarten Cleaners

Dimboola, Warracknabeal & Rupanyup –Applications close: ASAP

• Casual position, flexible hours after 2:45pm

• Join a supportive, community-focused team

• Positions available in Dimboola, Warracknabeal and Rupanyup

Motivated Kindergarten Cleaners wanted across the Wimmera. Help keep early learning spaces clean, safe and welcoming for children, families and staff.

Requirements:

• Current Working with Children’s Check & Police Check

• Experience in cleaning or facility maintenance

• Ability to work independently

For more information, please contact Tamira Cullinanon 0408 109 324

St Arnaud & Stawell – Applications close: 17 Mar 2026

• 4 year full time apprenticeship with structured training and support

• Great work/life balance with a 9-day fortnight

• Hands on experience working alongside skilled industry professionals

Gain hands on landscaping skills through site prep, hardscape installs, planting, irrigation work and structured training with strong council support.

Is this you?

• Genuine interest in landscaping/horticulture work

• Reliable, motivated and able to follow instructions

• Basic hand tool skills and confidence using equipment

For more information, please contact David Crooks on 0418 564 890

Training Coordinator (Agriculture)

Longerenong – Applications close: 9 Mar 2026

• Located at the industry-leading, Longerenong Agricultural College

• Enjoy additional leave days and a competitive salary

• Be part of a respected, values driven organization

Lead quality training delivery, mentor teams, ensure compliance and strengthen industry partnerships to support exceptional student outcomes.

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• Minimum 5 years vocational industry & 3 years VET

sector experience

• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (current)

• WWCC & Police Check or VIT registration

For more information, please contact Amanda Hardy via Amanda.hardy@skillinvest.com.au

sweep

BY COLIN MacGILLIVRAY

Horsham

Golf is the toast

of the Wimmera Playing Area bowls competition, completing a clean sweep of pennant premierships on Saturday.

The club entered the weekend with teams in all three division grand finals, having already won the division-two midweek pennant premiership on Tuesday last week.

While Horsham Golf president Craig Turvey anticipated it would be an uphill battle to claim all three weekend premierships, the club only dropped two of nine rinks across the afternoon.

Its division-one win was its most dominant, with Horsham Golf showing why it finished atop the ladder in a 16-point, 91-shot to zero-point, 46-shot thumping of Horsham City.

Golf got away to a strong start in the first rink, with Ross Barnett, Stephen Harris, Geoffrey Bald and skip Ashley Batchelor besting City’s William Hogan, Graham McDonald, Duncan Bottoms and skip Ron Dolby 31-19.

The second rink was even more one-sided, with Golf’s Hayden

Tucker, Danny Schmidt, Ken McClelland and Bradley Robinson accounting for a City foursome of Colin Morrell, Bruce Campbell, John Burchell and skip Anthony King 31-11.

Robert Grieger, Heath Miller, Denis Ballinger and skip Gavin Walter put the finishing touches on Golf’s premiership in the final rink, beating John Lehmann, Douglas Mitchell, Kevin Smith and skip Kevin Clyne 29-16.

Division two also saw Horsham Golf win comfortably over Nhill, coming out nearly 20 shots ahead despite dropping the first rink.

Nhill’s Charles Hickman, Bob Schneider, Shaun McDonald and skip Larry Bywaters got the best of Golf’s Chris Mellor, Dave Gove, Craig Turvey and skip Darryl Phillips to win 2823, but Golf, the minor premier, responded strongly to win the next two rinks 30-15 and 24-15.

Division three produced the closest grand final of the afternoon, with Horsham Golf and Nhill again squaring off.

Nhill entered as the team to beat after topping the ladder, but was put on the back foot when Horsham Golf’s Graeme Ough, Peter Broadbear, Raymond

Schulze and skip Michael John won the first rink 22-11 against Ian Marra, Ronald Beer, Robert Cook and skip Philip Henseleit. Nhill rebounded to capture the second rink 19-10, putting it only two shots from the lead entering the decisive third rink.

While Peter McDonald, Jock Bone, Bruce Muller and skip Maurie Haby put up a strong fight for Nhill, it was Golf’s Diane Dale, Margaret Smith, David Landwehr and skip Russell Smith who sealed the premiership for their team with a narrow 19-17 win, making the final score 14-51 to 2-47.

Other playing areas

North Wimmera Playing Area’s division-one weekend grand final went the way of Warracknabeal, which defeated crosstown rival Warracknabeal Golf White 16-98 to 0-54 in a dominant display.

Warracknabeal flexed its muscles from the opening rink with Shane Powell, Peter Anderson, Edna Anderson and skip Ron Baron securing a massive 43-14 win to set the stage for their side and cap an undefeated season.

Warracknabeal also celebrated an undefeated year in division two, beating Minyip 14-70 to

2-66 in a hard-fought grand final that came down to the final few ends.

The Grampians Playing Area division-one weekend pennant belongs to Chalambar Golf Bowls Club, which beat Stawell Golf 12-94 to 0-39, winning each rink by at least eight shots.

The division-two grand final was closer, with Stawell defeating Stawell Golf by only seven shots despite winning all three rinks.

Wycheproof was victorious in the North Central Playing Area division-one weekend pennant, defeating Donald 10-70 to 2-64 despite a valiant fightback by Donald in the final rink.

The division-two grand final went to Wycheproof, defeating Wedderburn 12-80 to 0-57.

Vol. 28 No. 34 Wednesday, March 4, 2026

Minyip Primary School student Edie Hudson cuts the water as she dives into Horsham War Memorial Swimming Pool during two days of interschool swimming sports last week. The School Sport Victoria joint Black Ranges and Little Desert events lead into Greater Western Region titles on March 25 in Horsham. Wimmera club championships will be on March 14, also in Horsham. Story, page 48.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER