14th March 2024 by North_Central_News

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St. Arnaud, Charlton, Wedderburn & Surrounding Districts

Est. 1864

18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud. 3478. - Advertising & Editorial Material - Ph.: (03) 5495 1055; Fax.: (03) 5495 1937. Email: ncn@iinet.net.au Published weekly. Registered by Australia Post, Publication No. VAC 4217.

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THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024.

Circulating in:- St. Arnaud, Charlton, Donald, Rupanyup, Bealiba, Stawell, Marnoo, Navarre, Dunolly, Wycheproof, Wedderburn, Birchip, Korong Vale, Stuart Mill, Redbank, Avoca & Moonambel.

(Incl. GST)

Thrive 50+ Hub has its official opening a little late due to fires FIRES in the Northern Grampians Fire and a scorcher of a day meant that the Grant Opening of the Thrive 50+ Healthy Ageing Hub was rescheduled. Although the Hub is now operating the official opening was held last week with a luncheon at the St. Arnaud Shire Office. Guest Speakers were Marg Batters and Kyle Torney and the CEO of the Northern Grampians Shire Mr Brent McAlister and Cr. Karen Hyslop were in

attendance with the Mayor Cr Rob Haswell. The aim of the Hub is to support those over 50 years of age to find solutions to live independently, explore social activities and groups, and keep physically and mentally active. The Hub also strives to communicate to the

community to understand and access My Aged Care and connect into health services. After an introduction by the Northern Grampians Shire Mayor Cr. Rob Haswell, the Guest Speakers spoke of the importance of the Healthy Ageing Hub for St. Arnaud.

Above: Marg Batters addresses the interested crowd as a guest speaker.

Above: The CEO of the Northern Grampians Shire Council Mr Brent McAlister speaks to the audience at the Thrive 50+ Healthy Ageing Hub.

Rotary organizes Hay Run to farmers in fire ravaged communities GREG Fithall (St. Arnaud) donated the first full semi load of hay and used his truck to take the load of hay to a farmer just near Elmhurst, as part of the St. Arnaud Rotary Hay Run. The farmer had part of his farm burned and lost much of his fencing and as a result had very little to feed his stock. The problems were compounded for farmers when helicopters filled from the dams therefore rendering them unusable. Stock were also spooked by the noise of the aircraft and in many instances broken through fences if they were still standing. Austin Fithall drove the load to Elmhurst with able support from Rotarian Russell Steel.

Above: Loading the hay at Greg Fithall’s property to go to Elmhurst.

Gardens signage gives a welcome to visitors in St. Arnaud BRICKLAYER Leigh Hawkes from Donald, has been working hard to build the naming wall that sits in the corner of the Queen Mary Gardens facing the intersection of Napier and Millett Streets in St. Arnaud. The job once completed looks a treat with all the Friends of the Gardens members gathered to inspect the work.

Left: Members of the Friends of the Gardens (left to right) Jo Hamilton, Brenda Proctor, Nola Lloyd, Janelle Patching, Ros Small, Lyn Box, Deidre Freeman, Betty Mazucco, Elaine Palmer, Sharon Shepherd and Marie Engelmann Absent: Annette Driscoll, Dorothy Patton, Jason Abbott and Georgie Collins.

Above: Bricklayer Leigh Hawkes working on the brick naming wall for the Queen Mary Gardens.

THE Friends of St.Arnaud Queen Mary Gardens will be holding its annual Gala Day - see page 4

To the Editor

Aussie Freedom Dear Editor, One of the most rewarding things I have done, since lock-down (do we all remember lock-down?) has been to

run as an independent candidate in the 2022 Victorian State Election. I was astonished by the number of votes I received. And I was more astonished for the diversity of people who voted for me and their reasons.

Editorial Speak even when your voice shakes These are very powerful words spoken by (female) Councillor of Northern Grampians Shire Lauren Dempsey and this week we have been reminded of the importance of speaking up. Speaking up even when you are intimidated, even when you are unsure of yourself or lack confidence because without individuals that are prepared to do so, we, as a democratic country are worse off. It is interesting that in this day when so much time and energy has been put into teaching our children not to bully, to ‘outlaw’ if you like the premise that a bully can win just by being louder, stronger, that so much bullying goes on. Just recently Facebook (or Meta) has said that they will not be paying for news on their platform after this year in defiance to the deal hammered out by the Australian Government and themselves three years ago. In an open letter to the Prime Minister the Country Press Australia has labelled the platform ‘bullies’ and stated that Australians hate bullies. It does seem to be a particular generic trait that we, Australians, get defensive of heavy handed tactics (must be white man’s convict past). North Central News backs this push to have the Australian Government stand up to Facebook and demand or negotiate a paying deal for news on their platform. On a more individual note, Cr. Dempsey believes herself to be the victim of bullies within the ranks of the Council. That is, not the people that work for the Council, but the council itself. That she has the strength and commitment to stand up and call it out at a Council meeting is to be commended. The reaction of some other councillors was as if Lauren had not spoken, was not there at all, and from what we know of this situation, that is what some/or many of them would hope to be the truth. But Cr. Dempsey is not going away, we hope. She has been given words of encouragement and support on many platforms and it is only with this kind of support C and encouragement that an individual such as Cr. Dempsey will gain strength and given time Q and development of the issues that her voice willCnot shake. It is her quote that this editorial is based upon. ‘Speak even when your voice shakes’. Cr. Dempsey is an example to all of us that even when you are bullied, even when you are lacking in confidence, speaking up is the right thing to do. That is democracy, that is giving alternative voices a voice and allowing them to be heard. We need strong individuals that believe they have a right to be heard and most of all, the message is do not buckle to bullies. ST. ARNAUD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0.0 RAINFALL FOR MARCH

. . . . . . . . . .0.0

D YEARLY RAINFALL TO DATE . . .64.6mm

CHARLTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0.0 RAINFALL FOR MARCH

. . . . . . . . . .0.0

YEARLY RAINFALL TO DATE . . .99.6mm

North Central News is published weekly by Peter Marland, 3279 Charlton/St. Arnaud Road, Slaty Creek for NCNews Pty. Ltd., 18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud. A.C.N. 146 461 903. Printed by Western District Newspaper P/L, Camperdown Vic. Registered by Australia Post Publication No. VAC 4217 - Recommended and maximum selling price only.

Since then I have dropped my candidacy in conversation many, many times and I have received the most respectful responses from citizens of the USA. Muricans, love their 'freedom' including their freedom not to vote. Although I have discovered that many Americans don't vote, as they believe their system is rigged (Electoral College). Their sentiment for the Electoral College is similar to our attitude towards the Preference System. In Australia, far more than other countries, we have the freedom to run as an independent (yay me!), or as a member of a micro-party (30ish to choose from), or to start our own micro-parties (Pauline Hanson, Derryn Hinch, Fiona Patton to name a few); and we stand a chance at being elected, depending on the strength of our campaigns. This is something, we should exercise at the upcoming Federal Election, and show those Americans what Aussie freedom looks like. Bernard Quince St. Arnaud

What if we Qld A took 4215down the1 800 ‘bird 652 284 F feeder’

Page 2 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024.

18 Napier St., St. Arnaud, Victoria 3478. Phone: (03) 5495 1055; Email: ncn@iinet.net.au St. Arnaud, Charlton & surrounding districts

N.C.N. INFORMATION The North Central News is 100% locally owned, independent newspaper, established in 1864. With an ABC audited circulation of 1,650 copies, and an estimated readership of over 4,250 throughout the Northern Grampians and Buloke Shires. SUBSCRIPTIONS Annual subscription for 12 months is only $144.00 (inc. GST), including postage and packaging. ADVERTISING & COPY DETAILS Artwork, and all advertisements or alterations are to be submitted before 5.00pm Friday prior to publication. Announcements of births, deaths, marriages and engagements must be properly authenticated. N.C.N. prefers advertisement and editorial copy to be typed or neatly hand-written to avoid being published incorrectly. We accept no responsibility for error or misspellings in illegible advertisement and editorial copy.

DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those held by the publisher or editor. The publisher and staff accept no liability for injury or losses which may occur as a result of information presented in this publication. © Copyright 2023

No. 10126

CROSSWORD 1

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Ted 7Whillier 8 9 10126 12 Peta11Mandrakas

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E Dear Editor,

Just a thought but maybe this could make people sit up and have a rare thought of their own. I bought a bird feeder. I hung it on my back porch and filled it with seed. What a beauty of a Tedfeeder Whillier bird it was, as I filled10126 it lovingly with seed. Peta Mandrakas Within a week we had hundreds of birds taking advantage of the continuous flow of free and easily accessible food. But then the birds started building nests in the boards of the patio, above the table, and next to the barbecue. Then came the crap. It was everywhere: on the patio tiles, the chairs, the table ... everywhere! Then some of the birds turned mean. They would, dive bomb me and try to peck me even though I had fed them out of my own pocket. And other birds were boisterous and loud. They sat on the feed-

Suddenly our taxes went up to pay for free services; small apartments are housing 5 families; you have to wait 6 hours to be seen by an emergency room doctor; your child's second grade class is behind other schools because over half the class doesn't speak English. Corn Flakes now come in a bilingual box; I have to 'press one ' to hear my bank talk to me in English, and people waving flags other than ‘ours’ are squawking and screaming in the streets, demanding more rights and free liberties. Just my opinion, but maybe it's time for the government Qld to take A 4215 feeder. down the bird If you agree, pass i t o n ; i f 1n800 o t , 652 j u284 st F continue cleaning up E crap! the Barry Robertson Carapooee

er and squawked and screamed at all hours of the day and night and demanded that I fill it when it got low on food. After a while, I couldn't even sit on my own back porch anymore. So I took down the bird feeder and in three days the birds were gone. I cleaned up their mess and took down the many nests they had built all over the patio. Soon, the back yard was like it used to be ..... quiet, serene.... and no one demanding their rights to a free meal. Now let's see...... Our government gives out free food, subsidized housing, free medical care and free education, and allows anyone born here to be an automatic citizen. Then the illegals came by the tens of thousands.

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ACROSS 1 Concretions of blood 5 Mournful song 10 Fanatical 11 Utter wildly 13 Customary 14 Turned 15 Ship of the desert 16 Assumed a position 18 Notions 21 Part of the eye 22 Stopped 25 Seraglio 26 Refuses 29 Girl’s name 31 Encounters 32 Flowers 33 Jewish surplice 35 Income 37 Dud 38 Poet’s Ireland 39 Rescues 40 Snake 41 Condition

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DOWN 2 One who grants a lease 3 Discovers 4 Cold meal 5 Dreadful 6 Worships 7 Burial places 8 Swallow 9 Nourished 12 Stanza 16 Of various colours 17 Subsequently 19 Obscure 20 Book of maps 22 Ballet dancer 23 Before 24 Periods of time 25 Success 27 Live coal 28 Traditional story 29 Unassuming 30 Sharp reply 32 Acting parts 34 Fruit 35 Corded fabric 36 By way of

Ultimate Good Friday Extravaganza GET excited as the Farmers Arms Hotel social club and St. Arnaud Lions Club team up once again for the annual Good Friday Appeal on 29th March.

Above: Weir’s IGA donates to the St. Arnaud Hospital Foundation and the Royal Flying Doctor Service Community Transport. (left to right) Deb Saxon-Campbell, Hayley Wallace RFDS, Robyn Vanrenen Hospital Foundation, Harley Durward and Sandra Craddock Weir’s IGA.

Dual recipients chosen to receive Weir’s IGA Community Chest THIS year, 2024, marks the beginning of a community based sustainability initiative for the Flying Doctor Community Transport team in St. Arnaud and in our other locations across the state. Recently, Weir’s IGA St. Arnaud donated to the Community Transport team as well as to the St. Arnaud Hospital Foundation from their community chest, with both receiving $1,347.37. This generous donation from Weir’s IGA is a significant milestone for the St. Arnaud service in the commencement of this initiative which will involve community

engagement and fundraising, engaging with local and state based corporate donors, and advocacy to local and state government for the funding of Community Transport. Hayley Wallace, Program Coordinator for Community Transport said that with nearly 300 community members in need already registered to use the service, and

having completed over 560 transports with a distance of over 60,000KM’s since our first journey at the end of July 2023, it’s clear that this has quickly become a highly valued service to the people of St. Arnaud and is having a significant impact to the health and wellbeing of the local community. “We’re seeking involvement from the community in helping us advocate for better recognition and funding of the Community Transport sector, and the essential role it plays in regional

communities across Victoria in supporting better healthcare access and social connection. “For more information on how you can help, or to make a personal or corporate donation, please call our friendly Flying Doctor team on 03 7046 4664.”

Brace yourself for a day of heart-warming generosity, epic fun, and a whole lot of community spirit. Last year, St. Arnaud shattered expectations by raising a jaw-dropping $31,341.20. Hold on to your hats folks, because with the phenomenal support from our local superheroes at Bendigo Bank, 2024 is about to hit legendary status. Check out the posters around town of the pintsized ambassadors, Finley and Emily, the adorable faces of the Royal Children's Hospital 2024 Good Friday Appeal. These little dynamos, who have conquered health challenges, are here ready to inspire and charm you. The only sound better than a 1990's Mr Whippy ice-cream truck, is the CFA firefighters and Lions club members taking to the streets Friday morning, shaking tins like there's no tomorrow. Keep your ears tuned for the rhythmic march of fame and glory as they

collect coin donations for the Appeal. Join the party from 2pm at the Farmers Arms Hotel St. Arnaud for a day packed with family fun. A jumping castle, face painting, a petting farm, and an epic colouring competition, there's no shortage of activities to keep the whole family smiling. And hold onto your baskets because the Easter egg hunt of the century kicks off at 3pm, with over 3000 chocolate eggs hidden and waiting to be discovered. It's an ‘eggstravaganza’ you won't want to miss. Get ready to groove as SLIDE entertainment

Contributed cranks up the volume with rocking tunes throughout the afternoon and evening. But that's not all – building on the smash success of 2023, we're unveiling the Goods and Service Auction at 8pm. We're calling on businesses far and wide to join the cause, donating goods or services to make this auction a spectacular affair, all in the name of the Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal Fundraiser. Your generosity is the key to making a difference. So mark your calendars, rally your crew, and come be a part of a day that makes a real impact to children and families throughout Australia.

Council to find new location for Pre-Prep Four Year Old Kinder Thankfully Council abandoned Market Square. The ideal location is the Government’s original proposal: the State Primary School adjacent to Lord Nelson Park’s entrance. Eventually all primary schools including non government will be provided with Pre Prep facilities. The Indoor Sport’s Stadium area has been suggested.

FARMERS ARMS HOTEL ST. ARNAUD Join us for our fun filled family day out! 3pm Easter Egg Hunt Face Painting, Petting Farm, Jumping Castle, Sausage Sizzle, Live Music.

8pm Goods & Service Auction

This is too far from everything. It has better uses such as housing with a recreational area. Despite suggestions to the contrary, the entire ‘Early Learning Centre’ in Walker Street does not need to be re-located. New Four-Year-Old Preps are standalone facilities planned to be associated with State Primary Schools, however there is ample room at the State Primary for an entire new Early Learning Centre if required. Jim Anderson, St. Arnaud. Former Town of St Arnaud Mayor and former Northern Grampians Shire Councillor

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024 - Page 3

St Arnaud 100 Years Ago: 7th – 13th March 1924 The ‘Friends’ Gala Day by Heather Pritchard

Coachbuilders Mr J M Olds opens a coach building business in Preece’s former livery stables in McMahon St. For the past seven years Mr Olds worked as a coachsmith for R S Reade’s Carriage Works on the corner McMahon and Raglan Sts. T Grant and Son, blacksmith and coachbuilders in North Western Road for the past twelve years have made extensive additions to the business to allow an increase in buggy and waggon work. Mr Grant has been

connected with the trade in St. Arnaud for thirty-five years [23 working for R S Reade] and twelve years on his own. A new building 30 ft x 20 ft has been added to the eastern end of the already spacious building and will be used for woodwork. In another part of the shop there has been installed a machinery plant, which includes a hp oil engine to power a b a n d s a w, e m e r y wheel and drilling machine. Another addition is a pressure blower to replace bellows for the three forges in constant use.

Hospital Report for February Patients admitted 45, discharged 35, remaining 34, outpatients 13 and 3 deaths. Sister M Marshall resigned and was given a xylonite brush by the staff; Sister Smale was appointed to the staff at a salary of £94 per annum. Miss Moncrieff commenced work as a laundress and work is available for a cook at £2 per week and a housemaid at 25/- per week.

Hospital Sunday The St. Arnaud Band played in the Queen’s Gardens and raised £117.

Avon Plains Schoolteacher Miss Downing has been accepted for service at the Mitchell River Mission as a representative of the Australian Board of Missions.

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When Miss Evelyn Reading of Wallaloo and Mr Allan Hodder of Avon Plains married, her sister Phyllis acted as bridesmaid and her cousin little Marjorie Grewar was trainbearer and Wilfred Hines bestman. Former St. Arnaud resident Miss May Baughurst married Mr John Charles at Wonthaggi with bridesmaids her sister Tottie and cousin Evelyn Hall, trainbearer her niece Beatrice Byrne and bestman Jack Edwards.

Accidents Fourteen-year-old Alan Rogers employed by James Rowe was

splitting wood in the yard at the rear of the shop when the axe slipped and cut his right ankle, which required several stitches. Dr Fleming was driving to a patient and when nearing Morton’s Plains a wheel collapsed and the car overturned. He was thrown out but escaped with minor injuries, however the car was badly damaged

Deaths Mrs Adeline Smith, wife of Sydney Smith of Navarre died age 36, following an operation at Ararat, leaving two little girls age seven and five years. Adeline and her husband came from Forest Hill London, ten years ago. Former St. Arnaud resident Reginald Draper was killed in a motor accident in Melbourne. Reg worked in the grocery department of McBride’s store for several years. Former Bank of Victoria teller, Mr V S Symonds, who left St. Arnaud 18 months ago, died age 26 at Coleraine. He is the youngest son of Mr S Symonds of the Bank of Victoria in Inglewood.

Tennis Kooreh 43 beat Gowar 34.

Twin Tub Washing Machine 2kg ...................................................................................................$199.99 Tasman 4v Tent ..........................................$149.99 Aquaheat Gas Shower....................$399.00 Big Boy Chair....................................................$84.99 Classic Chair......................................................$22.99 Camp Oven Set 9 Quart ...........$119.99 OZTRAIL CAMPING SALE NOW ON LYAL EALES STORES •Camping •Disposals •Hardware •Homewares 59 NAPIER STREET, ST. ARNAUD. PH: (03) 5495 2021 Monday to Thursday 9am - 5.30pm; Friday 9am - 6pm; Saturday & Sunday 9am - 2pm

Page 4 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024.

Cricket Match held in Melbourne - St Arnaud 245 defeated Wonthaggi 160 with most runs for St. Arnaud by Marchment 98 and Bilton 32 and for Wonthaggi Crowle 54 and Appleford 30

Sales Mr R Thatcher, who is leaving town, sells a snug little house of 4 rooms and sleepout on ¼ acre with good garden on Silvermines Road to G L Owen for £265. Miss D McNeill sells 6-room W B house on ½ acre in Millett St. Mr J J Willcox, who has sold his property in McMahon St, sells furniture and effects. Clearing sale for estate of Mrs A A Robbins [dec] held at her late residence near Gre Gre Village and for Charles Robbins, implements and sundries.

Reservoirs Wa t e r d e p t h – Teddington 22 ft 5 ins, Goldfields 12 ft 9 ins, Government 12 ft.

for all to enjoy again THE Friends of St.Arnaud Queen Mary Gardens will be holding its annual Gala Day on Saturday 23rd March 2024 from 9.00am to midday. Set beneath the sprawling branches of the Desert Ash beside The Mechanics Institute in the Botanic Gardens the ‘Friends’ will have stalls of cakes and slices, fresh produce and preserves, potted plants of all descriptions, books and a delightful morning tea on offer. There will be many other stall holders joining in, some local whom you may already know and others who will be a complete surprise. Also through the morning there will be live entertainment for all to enjoy and GWMWater has joined in this year generously sponsoring the event with free giveaways. If you would like to help out with any donations of plants, jams, pickles, sauces and other preserves, fresh fruit and vegetables, cakes and slices, books and magazines these can be left at The Mechanics Institute the Friday afternoon prior to Gala Day or brought along on the day. If you would like to become a stall holder (a perfect opportunity to declutter or perhaps a chance to show your wares or to promote a group) please contact either Lyn Box

- Contributed (President - Friends of St. Arnaud Queen Mary Gardens) on 54951167 or 0408951167, or Deirdre Freeman (Secretary) on 54963311 or 0417222661. This year the ‘Friends’ will see the long planned completion of the brick signage on the corner of Napier and Millett streets. With a successful grant from St. Arnaud Sporting Club there will be new palms planted in the Gardens imminently, putting the ‘Botanic’ back into Queen Mary Botanic Gardens working towards the restoration of the Gardens as per Kevin Walsh’s recommendations in his 1995 report. Similarly a successful grant from the Coonooer Bridge Wind Farm will see a mature tree planted as per the same report. We also have plans to design and plant a natural play area for children so it will be another busy year for the Friends of St. Arnaud Queen Mary Gardens but nothing is possible without the support of the local Community. Come along Saturday 23rd March, join in and join up everyone is welcome.

St. Arnaud 50 Years Ago: St. Arnaud to have more local productions with March 1974 Piano Palooza featured - by Heather Engagements Heather McL ean and Ross Sloane. Maureen Williams and Mick Coombes. Jennifer Waugh and Kenneth Kerr. Annette Langdon and Gary Falla.

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Mixed doubles, J Brown and Mrs Kelly [G] beat T Shortridge and Miss Dohnt [K] 6-3. Ladies doubles, Miss Mullins and Patrick [G] beat Miss Wandel and Jones [K] 6-1

Geraldine Burke and Ronald Scheggla. Marilyn Polkinghorne and Gregory Heritage.

Golden Wedding Anniversary Myrtle and Perc Gifford.

Silver Wedding Anniversary Elsie Teasdale

and

Jack

Births Pam and Blair Michael, a daughter Deborah Anne. Jan and Tony Rinaldi, a son Dale Anthony. Margaret and Leo

Pritchard

Murray a daughter Lucinda Maree. Beverley and Len Reid, a son Christopher Paul. Carolyn and Scott Smith, a daughter Kathryn Louise. Margaret and David Winter, a son Mark Aaron. Jenny and Maurice Torney, a daughter Lisa Rose. Pat and Maurice Wood, a son Simon Anthony. June and Noel Slee nee Phillips, a son Nigel Justin Thomas. Sandra and Bill Day nee Lock, a daughter.

21st Birthdays Tricia McKenzie and Judy Johnson

Deaths Mrs Ada [L ena] Cameron age 77. Robert James Walton age 69. Athol Ray Amos age 64. Ralph James Bibby age 78.

ACCESS to arts and culture will become easier in St Arnaud, boosting investment for new comedy, music, circus and theatre for locals and visitors to enjoy.

Member for Ripon has announced that the St Arnaud Arts Council is one of 15 groups that will enliven community halls, mechanics institutes, theatres and more across regional Victoria, thanks to the Labor Government’s Small Regional Presenters program. The St. Arnaud Arts Council Inc. was granted $4,070 to host the music, comedy and story-telling show Piano Palooza in the Town Hall, featuring a grand piano purchased by the Community. Ms Haylett said that the Small Regional Presenters program supports small events that make a big impact across regional Victoria. “Congratulations to the St. Arnaud Arts Council and I am sure I am not the only one who is looking forward to hosting this event in our community.” This year’s program is bolstering support for

community groups and not-for-profit organisations to bring creative performances to their local communities, delivered by Regional Arts Victoria. Small Regional Presenters, delivered by Regional Arts Victoria, provides grants to community groups and not for profit organisations in regional Victoria, helping them bring creative performances to their local communities. As well as providing work opportunities for artists and venue staff in regional Victoria, many Small Regional Presenters events are powered by volunteers involved in local hall committees, community progress associations and more. For further details and to see the full list of the latest Small Regional Presenters recipients, visit creative.vic.gov.au

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024 - Page 5

Obituary BRUCE COATES Bruce Tasman Coates was born in St. Arnaud on 29th August 1930 to Lucy May Kerkham and Alfred Thomas Coates. by Colin Coates

Early life He was a brother to Mary Sandison and Gerald who died shortly after he was born. The family lived at Traynors L agoon where Bruce went to Primary School, after attending school there he went on to attend Stawell Technical School. Bruce played football for Traynors L agoon and Cope Cope. He also played tennis for Traynors Lagoon.

His priorities Bruce and Peg’s priorities in life were Family, Church, Work, Agriculture and Sport. Bruce enjoyed most sports on TV and followed the Geelong Football Club, having a particular interest in Polly Farmer with those massive handballs he executed and he admired Gar y Abblet’s sporting skills.

Marriage to Peg Being involved in farming led Bruce to marry Margaret Alice Clifford at the Donald Methodist Church on 1st March 1952. Some of their courting had been done in a

thousands of small bolts. Bruce often commented on the tedious task it had been, Peg said he continued putting nuts and bolts on during his sleep.

Sheep enterprise

Land Rover 4WD. In wintertime he made the roads muddy which upset the neighbours.

Family They had a family of four children. Colin George born in November 1953, Neil Arthur born in October 1956, Helen Margaret born in January 1959 and Diane Catherine born in March 1962.

Family business Bruce went into the family business with his father Alf and this set a mindset for the following generations. When they changed from having grain in bags to Bulk Grain, they erected their first silo in 1953. It was built with

Bruce became more serious about the sheep enterprise in the late 1950’s and 1960’s and aimed at growing Poll Merino type sheep with free crimpy wool. They were known as Zenith sheep which were bred by Lance Bassett of Donald. This development led to the selling of rams. Just two weeks ago Bruce saw the Ram lambs belly deep in lucerne and he commented how good they looked. In those days the Horned Merino was the dominate breed and many in the sheep industry referred to the Poll Merinos as the ‘Culls’. The goals that Bruce had must have taken a lot of courage and foresight to push on despite any criticism from the sheep industry. He found a lot of support with other likeminded farmers and the Sheep and Wool staff at the Department of Agriculture.

Spread some Community kindness and compliment five people throughout the day Developed by young people involved in the DASH program in St. Arnaud, the project aims to encourage people in the community to be kinder to one another, improving the mental health and wellbeing and resilience of the residents. DASH is a Blue Light Victoria program which fosters community connection for young people. The program is funded via a grant from the Australian Federal Government.

Page 6 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024.

With the involvement of the Department of Agriculture the farm conducted Ewe and Lamb Drought Feeding Trials in 1963. These trials consisted of ten small groups in containment areas being fed various measured rations of feed. Bruce was involved in the Elders Flock Competition Victoria, he thought it was an honour and privilege to be a judge for some years for the competition. He met up with several breeders who had different blood lines in different environments, this was a learning experience.

Years of volunteering Throughout the years of volunteering and going to meetings the family was supported on the farm by a very abled employee Maurice Walker, who brought up his family in the district. Bruce’s determination to stay in farming was challenged several times, he succeeded in getting over these challenges and today we have the 5th generation of Coates involved in agriculture at Moana, Traynors Lagoon. Being supportive of Community Events was important for Bruce and he took on being a Councillor for the Kara Kara Shire as his father had been before him. He continued in this role until the amalgamation of Shire districts. In the early days of family life Bruce had a cow to milk every day, he claimed that this was his time to sit quietly think and plan, reflecting on things that needed to be done each day. GPS technology was something Bruce saw as lazy farming because no skill was needed to drive straight. In 1983 saw Bruce along with many others to set up Pea Co at Donald. He was on the initial Board of Directors which was established in 1985. They overcame many negatives of setting up a Legume Co Operative, meeting the challenges of financing. Pea Co was able to set a floor price for legume growers.

Challenges of Direct Drilling Bruce admired good fallowed or worked up ground.

He thought it looked good and neat and covered the risk of dry conditions. When NO TILL or Direct Drilling was introduced, it really challenged his thinking. Changing over to Direct Drilling it meant we had to change our machinery and we had to use more chemicals to keep the weeds under control. A lot of discussion happened with the Postlethwaite family and the Agronomist Peter Ridge. As our confidence grew, we bought a new air seeder in 1990, this handled the stubble residue. We have continued with this practice and this has resulted in improving the soil structure.

Making community better Bruce didn’t want to be President of any organisation; his aim was to help make the community better. He liked to push things forward and to have a positive outcome when negative bureaucrats couldn’t or wouldn’t see the bigger picture. This similar attitude was expressed along with others, such as Miles Burke of Donald when the consolidation of the Farmer’s Voice was formed into what it is today the VFF. After many years as a member, he was elected to VFF Grains Council representing our local area and being a voice for the farmers in this area. He was able to present the view of local farmers on the issues which concerned them.

The Move to St. Arnaud When Bruce and Peg moved to St. Arnaud in 1991 Bruce still came out to the farm nearly every day, he thought he needed to keep an eye on the boys. On moving into St Arnaud their activities involved Bowls and Church transferring their membership from Donald to St. Arnaud. Bruce joined the Men’s Choir through the church which he enjoyed. They also enjoyed going to Probus. After being involved in the CFA most of his life both as a member and a term as Captain he moved to more sedate activities on the Hospital Foundation.

He was a member of the National Party, encouraging them to have a stronger voice.

Bruce’s humour Many of us can recall funny incidents that Bruce was involved in. One of these was when Bruce drove the Subaru Ute out to the farm, he was waiting for the seat to be fixed, he thought it was taking too long so he resorted to putting a milk crate on the floor and sitting on it to drive out to the farm. Another was while he was on Council he started using the word contiguous after hearing the word used by many bureaucrats. One of his favourite sayings was ‘If things didn’t change they stayed the same’.

Bruce’s ‘stories’ He would put dead snakes on an ant nest, giving the grandchildren a fright, they would think it was alive sending them into a panic until they realised it was dead. There are many more interesting stories that can be told, you may hear some as we share a social time together following the service.

Other involvements Other areas that Bruce had involve-

ment in for some years was the Norval Uniting Church Camping Committee, Landcare, Catchment Management Authority and with the GWMWater regarding channel water system and the implementation of the current pipeline.

Move to Coates Hostel In April 2021 Peg broke her wrist which led to Bruce and Peg moving into the Coates Hostel as Peg was unable to manage at home with various household tasks. Bruce’s jovial nature was a delight to the staff but also a source of frustration for them when he was trying to make a joke when they were trying to get a straight answer out of him. We acknowledge and give thanks to the staff at the Hostel for the love and care they have given to both Bruce and Peg during their residency there. Bruce led a busy and active life which gave him contentment and with his jovial attitude he had many friends both through his work and those activities he was involved in outside work.

Argylle at the REX ‘ARGYLLE’ is the thriller, spy, action, comedy treat hitting the big screen at The Rex this weekend. Filled with all kinds of twists and turns, this movie keeps throwing up the unexpected, and just when you think you have it figured out, it moves in a different direction. It’s the story of reclusive author Elly Conway who writes best-selling espionage novels about a secret agent named Aubrey Argylle who's on a mission to unravel a global spy syndicate. However, when the plots of her books start to mirror the covert actions of a real-life spy organization, the line between fiction and reality begins to blur. Br yce Dallas Howard plays the beautiful, captivating and mesmerizing ‘Elly’, who on a train trip to visit her parents is ambushed by an actual spy who explains she is being targeted by a devious organization because

- Contributed her novels seemingly predict their future. This sets the scene for the mayhem which follows. Filled with plenty of humour and classic spy jokes, along with a fun reference to director Matthew Vaughan’s popular ‘The Kingsman’ movie, ‘Argylle’ also offers action-packed sequences, and an escapist, entertainment narrative – so, basically a film which doesn’t take itself too seriously. As one reviewer says “any movie goer who is a fan of spies, and cats, and twists and general insanity this film holds up.” “Argylle” (M 139 mins) screens on Saturday 16th March at 8pm, Sunday 17th March at 2pm and Tuesday 19th March at 8pm.

Coping strategies through storytelling in Buloke Shire EFFORTS to improve natural disaster preparedness education among young learners has been given a significant boost these past weeks, as Buloke Shire Council’s Community Recovery team commenced the distribution of specialised educational books to local libraries and reading to Supported Playgroup participants across the shire. This initiative, integral to enhancing community resilience and recovery, emphasises the importance of equipping the youngest members of our community with knowledge and coping strategies when we experience events such as hot days, floods, storms and fires. The "Birdie’s Book"

series is acclaimed for its focus on early childhood education, providing young children with ageappropriate understanding and coping mechanisms. Alongside this, additional copies of the "Buloke Busy Bee: Colour and Connect" book, which were distributed to primary

COVID Updates and Developments Victorian stats A further lowering of the 7-day average was recorded this week with 156 reported cases of COVID. Last week the number reduced to 164 from 178. The 7-day average of ICU patients also decreased this week (8 to 5) whereas last week the numbers increased from 7 to 8.

Updated boosters advice The federal government has updated COVID-19 vaccination guidelines af ter it accepted advice from the Australian Technical Advisory Group of Immunisation (ATAGI). The new vaccination advice is that all Au s t r a l i a n a d u l t s should continue to get C OV I D - 1 9 b o o s t e r jabs but children in good health need not worry. Anyone aged 65 and older and severely immunocompromised Australians between 18 and 64 years old is strongly encouraged to get a booster vaccine every six months. All other adults are eligible for a booster every 12 months.

Highly vaccinated man Against medical advice, a 62-year-old man from Germany has been vaccinated against COVID a total of 217 times, doctors have reported in the space of 29 months. He was, it has been claimed, therefore an experiment for what happens to the immune system when it is vaccinated against the same pathogen repeatedly. The report was pub-

schools across Buloke mid-December, have been made available at neighbourhood houses and libraries, providing an engaging and informative approach to connecting communities in community recovery after natural disasters are experienced. “Educating our children about natural disasters is crucial in our ever-changing environment.

“These books are an excellent resource for initiating conversations and understanding about such events in a childfriendly manner,” said Mayor Cr Alan Getley. “The initiative aims to arm educators and caregivers with tools to help children understand and cope with various natural disasters, fostering resilience and awareness from an early age.”

Above: At the Donald Playgroup, Community Recovery Coordinator Claire Cook captivates listeners, including Jasimin Bullen and her daughter, with the enchanting tale of ‘Birdie and the Very Hot Day’ from the Birdie Trees series, bringing the story's warmth and magic to life.

lished in a prestigious medical journal. Diseases outlined his case and concluded that while his “hypervaccination” did not result in any adverse health effects, it also did not significantly improve or worsen his immune response.

Long COVID has measurable impact A new study which assessed more than 140,000 people in 2022 in the UK, revealed that COVID may have an impact on cognitive and memory abilities that lasts a year or more after infection. The study also found that people experiencing long COVID have measurable memor y and cognitive deficits equivalent to a difference of about six IQ points. What the study shows is that brain fog can correlate with objectively measurable deficits.

Women more prone to Long COVID Women it is reported are more prone to long COVID than men. Why would this be so? Researchers are now beginning to think that hormones may be partly to blame for this.

Qantas fined for Safety COVID issues Qantas has been fined $250,000 and convicted for illegally standing down an employee in 2020. The employee had raised safety concerns over the risk to staff of COVID-19 being spread by employees who were employed to clean planes arriving from China.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024 - Page 7

St. Arnaud Combined Probus shuts its doors PRESIDENT Glenys opened our AGM by welcoming all members who attended and our guest Dick Bray from Rotary. - Contributed The first order of the day was a minute’s silence for our long serving member Ray Pole who passed away on 4th March. Ray and his late wife Joan were enthusiastic members who always joined in the many activities in the past…they will both be sadly missed. We then sang the club song and happy birthday accompanied by Kevin Cadzow before moving on to the business of the day, minutes of the previous meeting, committee reports etc. Before we broke for our morning tea Dick spoke to us briefly about Rotary who even though they have very few members are still busy with projects in

the town having received money from Melbourne. They are also organizing hay runs, the first of which is on its way, plus helping Blaze Aid at Horsham. So you can see Rotary is still a very valuable asset in the town. We then gathered for a group photo which Peter from NCN came and kindly took for us. Thank you again Peter for always putting our report and photos in each months – you have always been so obliging. The all important AGM began with Secretary Margaret reading the minutes of the 2023 meeting followed by correspondence.

Above: Back row: (left to right) Sheila Sorraghan, Helen Reyne, Kevin Cadzow, Heather Jenkins, Barb O’Donnell, Beryl Argent, Beatriz Mazucco, Glenis Wharton, Rex Salter, Elaine Palmer, Margaret Fyffe and Neil Fyffe. Front row: (left to right) Win Battersby, Bev Watts, Thea Phillips, Glenys Milton, Pat Jesse, Barb Petrie, Dawn McKay, Allison Ellis and Marie Craddock. President Glenys then gave her annual report remembering the members we lost during the year and giving a big thank you to all committee members who have supported her over the last two years. This was followed by the Treasurer’s Report from Beatriz and committee reports which were taken as read to save time. President Glenys then asked Dick to take the chair for the elections and all

positions were deemed vacant. Sadly I now have to report that there were no nominations from the floor for the Executive positions and therefore the club could no longer function. A very sad day for the Combined Probus Club of St. Arnaud after almost 23 years since the start when there were so many interested people that it was split into two clubs. Unfortunately age

has depleted our numbers and age has also meant that members are unable to take up positions. Ours is not the only club in this position, as Dick told us they only have eight members in Rotary now so they are doing a great job carrying on. Back to our AGM where Dick handed the chair back to President Glenys who outlined what would now happen. We will have a final committee meeting

later in the month to finalise any outstanding payments and the balance of monies will be donated to several organisations in town. This was a unanimous decision recommended by the committee and endorsed by the members. We would like to say ‘All the Best’ to our sister club – may you go on for many a year. President Glenys closed the meeting and we adjourned with our guest to the Shire

Café for a lovely roast lunch. As you can imagine lots of memories, trips away, guest speakers, our yearly birthday /Christmas celebrations – all very happy memories to carry with us. I hope you have enjoyed reading my reports as much as I have enjoyed writing them. Good health and happiness in the future. Cheers. Sheila.

Dance floor installed at Senior Citizen ON Monday 4th March the St. Arnaud Senior Citizens held their monthly concert. Visitors from Stawell and Navarre came to celebrate the new dance floor and see the entertainment performed by Callum Gleeson. The 66 people who attended

had a wonderful time being entertained. After the concert all were treated to afternoon tea put on by the lady members of the Club.

Above: To the music of Callum Gleeson, some of the members of the Senior Citizens Club of St. Arnaud enjoy the new dance floor.

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Charlton 100 Years Ago: 8th – 12th March 1924 A Notable Tribute A striking tribute to the popularity of Miss Ivy Churchill, who is to be married to Mr M. A. Heenan, at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Bendigo, was furnished at the kitchen tea given at the residence of Mr Alf Churchill, ‘Pine Park’ Teddywaddy. The gathering was a very large one, and the presents made a particularly handsome display, being both useful and costly. Dancing was indulged in to music supplied by Messrs Cudmore Bros and R. Sait, the MCs being Messrs W. Ryan and V. Sait.

Good Glenloth From every point of view the concert and ball held on behalf of the Memorial Hall at Glenloth was a decided success. The attendance was worthy of such an occa sion; all enjoyed themselves thoroughly; and the proceeds totalled over £20. The evening opened with the national Anthem. An excellent programme was provided by visiting and local artists. The accompaniments were played with taste by Misses Eileen Dillon, Mabel James and Bertha Reed, the violinist being Mr Otto Tappe. A dainty supper was served by the ladies, and was unanimously voted ‘just perfect’. The hall was cleared for dancing, and all joined in with the greatest joviality. The stage had been decorated in a charming manner by Mrs Teehan. The secretarial duties were in the capable hands of Mr H. Hosking.

Wedding Bells Although nature did not deign to smile upon the nuptials, it could not disguise the

QUOTE OF THE WEEK Speak even when your voice shakes Lauren Dempsey, Councillor of Northern Grampians Shire

prettiness of the wedding of Lily May, only daughter of Mrs Roberts and the late Mr H. Roberts, West Charlton, to John Edward, fifth son of Cr Joseph Wright and Mrs Wright, of Clifton Hill. The wedding took place in the Methodist Church. The bride was charmingly attired in cream charmeuse, with silver trimmings and veil. The first bridesmaid was Miss Nellie Pollard (East Malvern) and Miss Mary Wright. The best man was Mr C. Cadzow, and groomsman Mr Wm Roberts. The wedding breakfast was held in the Methodist Sunday School Hall. The happy couple left by the 1.20 pm train for Melbourne, en route for Tasmania, where the honeymoon is being spent. Their future home will be at Wolfton.

School improvements The Glenloth North School has experienced g r e a t improvements since it was opened 12 months ago. In that short time the school can boast of a shelter pavilion, wire windows, flag and flagpole, and a tennis court. These additions are due to the very active interest by the school committee and residents in the district.

Anglican Harvest Thanksgiving It seems almost a pity that, l i ke Christmas, Harvest Festivals come but once a year. Otherwise, the congregations at St Martin’s each Sunday might be more worthy of the Anglican faith. The congregations at 11am and 7pm were very good, especially in the evening. The interior of the building had been beautifully decorated by the ladies of the congregation; and the s h eaves o f wh eat, criss-crossed throughout the pews and chancel, and interspersed with geraniums, presented a very fine effect. The simplicity of the altar was relieved by an artistic arrangem e n t o f Ve l o t t a flowers and asparagus. Mrs White was the organist at Holy Communion, and Miss

B. Bennett at the other services.

A Golden Opportunity It is expected that some 80 excellent horses, done out of a job owing to their present owners having purchased tractors, will be offered at the special horse sale to be held by Messrs Thos. Morrow and Co, in the Charlton yards. Almost needless to say, the opportunity for horse-buyers will be a golden one. The Tennis Courts Nine Mile v Yeungroon East – on the new courts, pleasantly situated along the banks of the creek,

by Charlton Golden Grains Museum at Nine Mile, a very enjoyable match was played. During the afternoon, tea and refreshments were handed round and thoroughly appreciated. Some players were: D. Stewart, E. White, H. White, L. Collison, A. McGurk, K. Cossar, J and W Cossar, R. Edyvean, J. Bartlett, J. Power, J. Brandupp, Misses L. White and May Power. Totals: Nine Mile 70 games; Yeungroon East 66 games. (Information from East Charlton Tribune)

Above: 1924 Heenan wedding (left to right) Tom Tomichael, Daisy Churchill, Michael Heenan, Ivy Churchill and Sheil Churchill.

The world is watching our Facebook fight!

e Mi An open letter to Prim

nister Anthony Albane

Dear Prime Minister,

l stop paying for zenly announcing they’l bra k oo ceb Fa to nse po Your first res s…perfect! make a fortune from wa our news that they use to way,” you said. “That’s not the Australian not just a Exactly. fair go. And this battle is a for ht fig s an ali str Au Australians hate bullies. ing. the whole world is watch fight for a fair go here pire out of Facebook has built an em ns ow t tha nt gia h tec r are’ the great work of Meta, the trillion dolla duce anything. They ‘sh pro n’t do ey Th n. ow content they don’t others and keep the cash. s scandal, and in in the world to call out thi news content. st fir the s wa t en rnm ve The Australian go m to finally pay for rgaining Code forced the 2021 the News Media Ba But not anymore. they win the world. Australian government, the lly bu y the if t tha g Meta is bettin is fight against fake ws and democracy. This ne of ure fut ount, all the for ht fig PM, this is a o hold the powerful to acc wh ts lis rna jou all for r go news and a fight for a fai . rld wo the around a fair go is. a shows Facebook what Let’s make sure Australi The world is watching. Yours sincerely,

Andrew Schreyer President Country Press Australia

Authorised by A Schreyer for Country Press Australia 97-103 Queen Street Warragul Victoria 3820

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024 - Page 9

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A MINING LICENCE Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act 1990 – Section 15(5) Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) (Mineral Industries) Regulations 2019 – Regulation 22(1) and Schedule 1 1. Name and address of applicant(s): Victoria Mining Exploration Pty Ltd C/-PO Box 563, East Maitland NSW 2323 2. Contact details of applicant (for map and other information requests): Belinda Ingram, Authorised Agent (as employee of Australian Mining & Exploration Title Services) Mobile: 0428 158 374. Email: vic@amets.com.au 3. Applicant’s Website (see notes) Further information about this application is available at the following website: www.amets.com.au/victoria-tenements/ and https://resources.vic.gov.au/licensing-approvals/have-your-say 4. Details of the application: Application number: MIN008414 Locality of the land to which the application relates: Approx. 200m south of Wehla, 7km north west of Rheola and 8km east of Logan Approximate area of the application (Hectares): 4.93 Date of the application: 23 February 2024 Term the licences are applied for: 15 years Outline of the proposed programs of work: Access Track Construction, Fencing, Underground Shaft construction, Drilling. 5. Objections and Comments: Any person may object or comment to a licence being granted. (Section 24 and 24A, Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act 1990). A person who objects or comments must: a. Put the objections or comments in writing; and b. include the grounds on which it is made. All objections or comments must be lodged within 21 days after the latest date on which the application was advertised and can be lodged online or posted to: The Minister for Energy and Resources c/- Manager Licensing, Earth Resources Regulation, PO Box 500, East Melbourne Victoria 8002 It is recommended that objections or comments are lodged online to ensure timely consideration: https://rram.force.com/ObjectionSubmission Enquiries can be made by writing to the Manager Licensing at the above address or by phoning the Earth Resources Information Centre on 136 186. 6. Other information: a. Subject to other statutory requirements being satisfied, a mining licence, if granted, entitles the holder of the licence to carry out mining on the relevant land, explore for minerals, construct any facilities specified in the licence, and do anything else that is incidental to that mining. b. Further information regarding the statutory requirements that must be complied with prior to work being undertaken, including landowner and occupier consent requirements, is available at: https://resources.vic.gov.au/community-and-land-use

MEETINGS

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Family and friends of Judith Church would like to invite community members to an informal celebration of Judith’s life and Art at the Raillery Art Gallery at 11am on Saturday 23rd March.

St Arnaud Agricultural Society

AGM Wed. 3rd April 7.00pm at Lord Nelson Park Meeting/Canteen area. All Welcome.

STUART MILL CFA

Biennial AGM it will be held at 6.30pm on 18th March at the Stuart Mill Hall. All apologies/questions to Naomi Medlyn - 0408 501 795.

BEAZLEY’S BRIDGE CFA

Election of Office Bearers Tuesday 19th March. 7.30pm at Fire Shed. Contact: 0429 998 266.

Personalised Engraved Paver - $25.00 The pavers will be laid as part of the landscaping of the current $10 million building program in 2024. Contact the General Office for Order Form: 5495 1811 Download Order Form from St. Arnaud Secondary College webpage: https://www.starnaudsc.vic.edu.au

EMPLOYMENT Job Opportunities

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

St. Arnaud Sporting Club Casual Bar & Gaming Attendant Award level salary Day and Night Availability Send cover letter and resume to careers@bendigostadium.com.au

TO ADVERTISE PH: 5495 1055 Page 10 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024.

Campus Negotiable • Foot Care Nurse • Podiatrist • Home Care Support Worker Charlton • Infection Control Coordinator • District Nurse- Registered Nurse Donald • Enrolled Nurse Wycheproof • Resident Lifestyle Coordinator • Laundry Assistant Further information available at: https://ewhs.org.au/careers

WHATS ON

DAVE STEEL and the

WELCOME WAGON Appearing at:

Taltarni Winery Easter Sat. 12noon - 3pm Info: 0404 999 543

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Colours, Perms, Unisex Cuts, Waxing, Teeth Whitening, Brow Wax & Tinting, Tanning etc.. 110 Napier St., St. Arnaud

Nicola Kirk Physiotherapist Over 17 years experience Open Mon to Fri 63 Napier Street, ST. ARNAUD

60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Congratulations to

Glenys nee Moresi and

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0400 451 432 or 5495 1108

Kindest Regards, Lindee Parry Family is Everything Friendships are treasured Blessed to live in and be part of a beautiful community

ENGAGEMENT

POSTLETHWAITE BOURCHIER Solicitor 116 Napier St., St. Arnaud

Practical, experienced advice in plain English Appointments also available in Charlton, Donald & Wycheproof

Ph: 5495 2595 Karen@klp.net.au

Neale and Judy Postlethwaite of Gooroc, along with Graeme and Heather Bourchier of Swanwater West, happily announce the engagement of

Rebecca and Alexander.

THANKYOU It has now been over six weeks since the horrific accident that I was unfortunately involved in. These past six weeks have been life changing and will continue to be for some time. I would like to say a huge Thank you to all those that attended to me on that Sunday afternoon at the Botanical Hotel corner. Thank you to all the services that attended the accident scene including the Police, Fire Brigade, SES and the Ambulances. I wasn't able to see you all but I knew you were keeping myself and the community safe at this intersection. A huge Thank you to Graeme Male who was first on the scene and assisted me from the car to the gardens across the road and notified our children and Natalie Knights who was second on the scene and kept me calm throughout the whole ordeal.You both came to my rescue and stayed with me until family and close friends arrived, who also supported me and stayed with me. I have never felt so vulnerable and scared laying on the grass and unable to move. To Eleanor, Edward and Trent Thank you for being with me. From the moment you arrived and continuing to now and into the future your love, care and support has been amazing. I love you all so much Y. Finally to Stephen (He is recovering well from his heart attack) Thanks for being there with me through the really rough patches and the tears. Your support and love has been appreciated so much. To everyone that has called on the phone, sent messages, cards and flowers and delivered food, an extra BIG Thank you! I have been overwhelmed by the care and concern shown to myself and my family, by dear friends and many people in our community during this very challenging time. I am so blessed to still be here...

THANKYOU

DEATH

THANKS We would like to thank the community for their continued support of our fundraiser! This year we have raised over $6,200 for Fight Parkinson’s. It’s made possible by the dedication of artists, musicians, sound crew, everyone selling tickets, not to mention the generous donations of raffle items from local businesses. Please accept this as our personal thank you. Leon and Marlena

CHURCH - Judith Dawn Judith was a very special companion over the last few years. Her valued lessons and advice will have an impact on me forever. Between butterflys and plants, she knew it all. I will miss our morning teas and chats. Memories held forever. Your friend Ruby Swanton.

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FITZPATRICK - Maddi We have very fond and happy memories of our time playing with the Belles. Your no nonsense, humble, friendly and dedicated approach to your sport is something that we admire. We will continue to think of you as we strive to do our best. Lots of Love Rehmi Burke and Abby Weir xxx

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Birthday wishes to: March 13th Sibble Spry March 14th Alexandra Egan Lisa Torney March 15th Brodie Blake Fraser Burke

March 16th Carly Glen Ricky Summers Thomas Douglas March 17th Bailey Durward Katrina Wiseman Rosee Larizza March 18th Courtney McLean

They were married on 14th March,1964 at the Uniting Church Charlton. Love from your family, Cheryl, Craig, Jasmine and Jordan, Sam, Ellie; Paul, Flor, Dayne, Joshua and Ashton; Andrew, Jodie, Alice, Emma, Joseph and Ned.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024 - Page 11

AEMO and TCV pull out VNI-West amid consultation chaos

CHURCH NOTICES ST. ARNAUD UNITING CHURCH Sunday 17th March ST. ARNAUD 9.30am Peter Welch PARISH OFFICE Chris & Rob Batters Pastorial Co-ordinators Enquiries 5495 6223

DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES East Wimmera Parish BIRCHIP

Sunday March 17th 8.30am - Mass BOORT

Sunday March 17th 10.30am - Live Stream in BANYENA - No Mass CHARLTON

ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST Cnr. Queens Ave & Alma St. Hearing the good news of Jesus Thurs. 14th March 10.30 a.m. Faith Group recess Sun. 17th March 10.00 a.m. Prayer Time 10.30 a.m.: Worship & Communion Speaker: Andrew George Enquiries: Brian Eccles Ph: 5495 2267

Saturday March 16th 7.00pm - Mass DONALD

Sunday March 17th 10.30pm Live Stream out to churches without Mass ST. ARNAUD

Sunday March 17th 10.30am - Live Stream in WYCHEPROOF

Sunday March 17th 10.30am - Live Stream in Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976

VICTORIAN Government’s attempt to again reboot consultation on transmission lines is an admission consultation has failed abysmally on VNI-West, Member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster says. The State Government has introduced a Bill to establish VicGrid, claiming the new brand will “modernise the way new energy infrastructure is planned and developed in Victoria while giving communities a voice in the process”. “I have been deeply concerned about communities in Mallee who have felt

CHURCH NOTICES ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD Christ Church Old Cathedral Friday 15th March 9.30am Morning Prayer St. Arnaud 9.30am Every Sunday Eucharist Bealiba 8am 2nd/4th Sunday All Welcome Rev. Peter Downes Enquiries phone: Phone: 0412 957 383

voiceless and hence I have advocated for them,” Dr Webster said. “AEMO followed by TCV’s failed VNI West consultation were why I strongly supported protests in St. Arnaud, Horsham, Melbourne and Canberra to give my community a voice. “I’ve now organised meetings this Thursday [last week] in Tragowel and St Arnaud with TCV and the Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner Andrew Dyer so my constituents can be heard. “VNI-West needs to go back to the drawing board. “TCV cannot reap the reward of the botched engagement so far.

“Mallee families should have been properly heard and respected all along, but they have been railroaded through shambolic Clayton’s consultations by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), then AEMO’s shell Transmission Company Victoria (TCV).” Dr Webster said Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner Andrew Dyer’s review report on community engagement condemned the failures. Ninety two per cent of respondents were dissatisfied at the level of engagement from renewable energy project developers and more than 90 per cent told Commissioner Dyer they were dissatisfied with the information they received or felt unconvinced that their concerns would be resolved. “I invited the Commissioner to meet with VNI-West landholders in Mallee this week to engage with those whose experiences strongly informed his report,” Dr Webster said. “According to the Victorian government today, VicGrid will now implement a new Victorian Transmission Infrastructure

Framework (VTIF) but does this mean there will be change? Dr Webster says that the rush to renewables is railroading farmers and their communities into hosting transmission projects. “Mallee’s prime agricultural land and pristine native bushland should be protected. “Last week the Canadian province of Alberta announced a ban on permitting renewables projects on lands suitable for growing specialty crops. “I would like to see similar reform adopted here to protect our farmers who feed and clothe the nation and the world,” Dr Webster said.

TCV and AEMO cancel meeting Dr Webster was to host town hall meetings at St. Arnaud and Tragowel last

Thursday with TCV and Commissioner Dyer which according to Dr Webster was so that Mallee constituents can be properly heard about TCV’s poor consultation on VNI West. It was after Dr Webster had made the announcement of the meetings that AEMO and TCV cancelled suddenly just before the scheduled meeting last Thursday. The companies cited that the meeting organised by Dr Webster was billed as invite-only discussions about the VNI West Transmission project and that the cancellation was due to Dr Webster publicising the meeting. AEMO says it cancelled the meetings after Dr Webster sent out a press release describing the sessions as “town hall meetings” and publicised the date and time of the events. AEMO says it plans to reschedule in the coming weeks.

Shop locally, support local business and secure your children’s future

Veterans Card

!"#$%&&%'"#

Martha Haylett MP & the St Arnaud RSL Sub-Branch invite you to a special afternoon tea to help you apply for the Victorian Veteran’s Card.

Friday 15 March 2024 | 1pm – 2:30pm St Arnaud RSL | 6 Raglan St, St Arnaud Please bring along: Your PMKeyS number or Service number, two forms of ID. If you have one, please also bring: your smart phone, tablet, or your email password.

Looking forward to seeing you there! Page 12 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024.

Rotary Club of St. Arnaud is coordinating a hay drive for livestock in the fire affected areas around Beaufort /Raglan. Anyone who would like to donate hay please ring North Central News on 03 5495 1055.

In The Paddock Littleproud says PALM changes another burden for farmers FARMERS and industry fear Labor’s imminent updates to the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme, says Leader of the Nationals David Littleproud, could result in workers from nine Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste permanently receiving better pay conditions in some circumstances than Australian farm workers, placing an undue burden on employers. Mr Littleproud said L ab o r n e e d s t o address disparities in new PALM guidelines, likely to be released this month. The Fe d e r a l Government previously made changes in 2023 but is now due to update them, which industry fears risks cementing some elements that could be harmful. Mr Littleproud said farmers were anxiously awaiting the release of the new guidelines, as there are serious inconsistencies with industrial relations rules when it comes to ‘stand down’ guidelines and makes it more expensive for employers. “Australian workers are occasionally ‘stood down’ temporarily as part of their enterprise

agreement (EA) and because of this, they can be paid a higher hourly rate,” Mr Littleproud said. “This is common in places such as abattoirs when there is no stock or if a processing plant requires maintenance. “So Australian and migrant workers aren’t paid during a stand down because they can earn the higher hourly rate to cover them. “On the other hand, new guidelines for PALM workers indicate they must be paid regardless of a stand down. “The oversight m e a n s t h a t PA L M workers risk receiving greater conditions, i.e. pay, than Australian and migrant workers performing the same

Week ending Wednesday 6 March 2024

job in the same scenario.” Shadow Minister for International Development and the Pa c i f i c Michael McCormack said the unions are interfering and potentially jeopardising what was innovative Coalition policy. “PALM has the ability to provide great career opportunities for Pacific workers, help farmers with labour demands and strengthen our foreign ties,” Mr McCormack said. “However, all of this is on the chopping block under Labor.” Summer Fruit CEO Trevor Ranford said the changes were unrealistic and will continue to put upward pressure on the cost of production

— By Glendon Hancock

THE Australian wool market has recorded a solid overall increase in this series, driven by strong price rises in the merino fleece sector. The first selling day in the Eastern centres the market was mixed but overall positive. The market closed the day strongly in the West, setting the East up for a robust second day opening. The AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) added 4 cents for the day. The second day opened dearer as expected, then slowly but noticeably climbed as the sale progressed. All merino f leece Micron Price Guides (MPGs) recorded increases (between 7 and 26 cents). The 10 cent rise in the EMI, was the largest daily rise this calendar year, and the largest since the 13th of December. The EMI added 14 cents for the series, the largest weekly rise of the 2024 cal-

endar year, and the largest weekly rise in the EMI since the close of the 2023 calendar year, where the EMI gained 35 cents for the series. The EMI has now fallen only twice over the last nine selling days, although over this time the market movements have been minimal. The EMI has added 17 cents over this period; however, the average daily movement of the EMI was just 3 cents (both positive and negative movements), across these nine selling days. This small average movement, highlights the stagnant nature of the market over recent months, making this week’s mini spike welcome news to sellers. Next week’s quantity is forecast to rise, due in part to sellers being encouraged

National Offering Centre North South West Total

Week 36 36 36

Days 5, 6, Mar. 5, 6, Mar. 5, 6, Mar.

Offering 8,208 19,859 9,222 37,289

Future Offerings Week

12, 13, 14 Mar. 42,390

Source - AWEX

to the market. There are currently 42,390 bales rostered nationally. As all centres no longer move if one centre has a local Public Holiday, next week is an unusual selling pattern. Sydney and Fremantle will sell on Tuesday/Wednesday while Melbourne will sell on Wednesday/Thursday, to accommodate the Melbourne Monday Public Holiday.

and cost of living pressures. “Farmers are telling me they cannot afford the new regulations coming through and they will walk away from PALM and some are even considering walking away from growing fruit altogether,” Mr Ranford said. “Farmers will be forced to move towards backpackers and more transient workers and are already planning to do so. “Otherwise, you’re paying for workers that might do two hours of work a day but you pay them for seven, as an example, for a stand down. “No one can afford that. If you have to pay someone for not working, the hours should then be owed. “If that doesn’t happ e n , t h e PA L M program will fall apart.” Approved Employe r s o f Au s t r a l i a executive officer Steve Burdette said the Federal Government implemented changes to the PALM scheme that have created confusion, uncertainty and angst for Au s t r a l i a n and migrant workers and their employers. “Changes to minimum earnings, employer responsibility for transport and accommodation, leave requirements and accommodation processes are increas-

ing the costs of running the program and decreasing employment opportunities for Pacific workers,” Mr Burdette said. “We must return to practical and pragmatic solutions that can actually be implemented and improve outcomes for workers.” Mr Littleproud added a future Coalition government would reinstate the AgVisa. “This year, farmers will also be forced to offer a minimum of 30 hours per week, over four weeks, to PALM workers. “They will then be forced to offer 30 hours per week, every week, from July 1, 2024. “This is despite agriculture work being seasonal and weather dependent. “The PA L M Scheme has the potential of just 42,000

workers and is now even more unattractive for farmers to sign up to. The result will be farmers will choose to plant less driving up prices at the checkout. “ Wi t h o u t the AgVisa, Labor’s policy settings will gradually suffocate Australia’s world-leading agriculture industry and reduce domestic production and supply, driving up costs.”

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024 - Page 13

Wimmera District 12 Championships THE Wimmera District 12 Championships were held at the St. Arnaud - Contributed Swimming Pool on 3rd March 2024. Eighty-seven swimThe champs are St. Arnaud mers from St. Arnaud, always a great day, a Results:

Ararat, Horsham and Warracknabeal competed to end the 2023/24 season off.

time to reflect on a great season and be rewarded for some stellar performances in the pool.

Wimmera Mallee Cricket Grand finals A Grade Donald Jeffcott 8/179 (40) defeated BrimKSH 10/138 (38.4)

B Grade Charlton 10/58 (21.5) lost to Donald Jeffcott 4/59 (18.3)

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Jesse Amos Men’s 17-29 50m free 2nd, fly 2nd, breast 3rd, back 2nd, 100m back 2nd, 200m back 2nd, 400m free 2nd and 200m IM. L eanne Burke Women's 30&O 50m free 2nd, fly 2nd, breast 2nd, back 2nd and 200m IM 2nd. Riley Burke Men's 17-29 50m free 4th, fly 3rd, breast 2nd, back 3rd and 200m IM 2nd. Declan Kay Boys 13-14 100m free and breast. Leo Kay Boys 8&U 50m free 1st. Spencer Kay Boys 11-12 50m free (-10.42 time improvement)

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and back (-5.27 time improvement). Austin Lowe Boys 13-14 100m free 1st and breast 1st. Lewis Lowe Boys 11-12 50m free 1st, fly 1st (-4.83 time improvement), breast 3rd, back 2nd and 200m IM 2nd. Archer Reyne Boys 13-14 100m free 2nd, breast 3rd (-13.56 time improvement) and back 1st. Arley Reyne Boys 11-12 50m free, breast and back. Eliza Scarce Girls 13-14 100m free and breast. Ebony Start Women's 50m free 1st, fly 1st, breast 2nd, back 1st, 100m free 1st, fly 1st, breast 2nd, back 1st, 200m IM 1st, free 1st, back 1st and 400m free 1st. Heidi Start Girls 1314 100m free 1st, fly 1st, breast 1st (-5.04 time improvement), back 2nd, 200m IM 1st, back 2nd and 400m free 2nd. Hamish Tannock Boys 13-14 100m free 3rd, breast and 200m IM 2nd. Finn Wilson Boys 11-12 50m free 3rd, fly 3rd, breast, back and 200m IM 3rd.

St. Arnaud Relays: Above: Leo Kay was very chuffed with his Olympic sized gold medal.

Mixed 14&U free relay with Austin, Heidi, Eliza and Declan 1st. Mixed 16&U free relay with Austin,

Eliza, Hamish and Archer 3rd. Mixed 12&U free relay with Finn, Arley, Spencer and Lewis 2nd. Mixed open free relay with Riley, Ebony, Leanne and Jesse 1st. Mixed 14&U medley relay with Archer, Austin, Heidi and Hamish 1st. Mixed 12&U medley relay with Arley, L ewis, Finn and Spencer 1st. Mixed open medley relay with Jesse, Riley, Ebony and Austin 1st. Wimmera District 12 Age Group Champions from St. Arnaud for 2024: 11-12yrs Male Lewis Lowe, 13-14yrs Female Heidi Start, 17-29yrs Female and Open Female Ebony Start.

Trophy winners: Wimmera Amateur Swimming Association Shield: for the team with the highest aggregate for the 2023-2024 season, was won by Ararat Swimming Club. The Barrow shield: which is a standardized club aggregate for team points from the Wimmera championship meet- was won by St. Arnaud swimming club. Shane Hauesler Perpetual Trophy; for Mens open freestyle 400m – Matthew Ellis Horsham Eleanor McRae Perpetual Trophy; For

Above: Club Captains Hamish and Austin with the Barrow Shield. Womens open Freestyle 400m- Ebony Start – St. Arnaud Alan Williams Memorial Trophy: WDASA, 11-12 years boys Backstroke Champion- Flynn Dodson – Horsham Rose bowl- Highest Individual Aggregate for the Wimmera Championships – Matthew Ellis Horsham Congratulations to everyone on a mighty season. It’s been a massive one with 8 meets, plus the Wimmera

Championships. Thankyou to everyone who has help throughout the season with meet days and training nights. Big congratulations to Lewis, Heidi and Ebony and to the whole Piranhas team for their win of the Barrow Shield and coming home with 27 gold, 24 silver and 10 bronze. With swimming and training all finished up, we can now look for ward to our Presentation Night to reflect on our season in the water.

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Above:(left to right) Age Group Champions Lewis , Heidi and Ebony.

Above: Eleanor McRae Perpetual Trophy; For Womens open Freestyle 400m- Ebony Start.

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Above: Piranhas team: (left to right) Heidi Start, Ebony Start, Austin Lowe, Jesse Amos, Hamish Tannock, Riley Burke, Finn Wilson, Belinda Burke, Declan Kay, Archer Reyne, Spencer Kay, Lewis Lowe, Arley Reyne, Eliza Scarce, Leanne Burke and Leo Kay.

Page 14 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024.

Saints Under 14’s training - Contributed

THE St. Arnaud Under 14’s footy first training was an outing to Bealiba reservoir last Thursday evening.

Above: Chase Hendy with his red fin.

Twenty-two kids and 10 parents attended. Sam Greenaway caught the biggest fish at 28cm catch and release, with Chase Hendy catching two small red fins. We then split into three groups for a few activities and a 6.5 km hike up the Bealiba range. Upon our 2 hour hike a BBQ was cooked. Everyone feasted and finished with a further fish before returning on the bus back to town.

Above: Some of the hikers as the sun begins to go down at the end of their hike.

Charlton Croquet on a sizzling Saturday ON a very hot day, Saturday 9th March, the Murray Valley Croquet - Contributed Association Championships were held at Swan Hill. In Section 1 Lindsay Patullo defeated Ian Potter (Boort). Section 2 Anne Kenny defeated Gaye Sim (Boort) winning 2 games out of 3. Section 3 was uncontested. Section 4 had 4 players: from Swan Hill, Darren Barnes and Julie Barber, and from Charlton Naomi Patullo and Sue Nicholls. The game results were as pre-

dicted by seeding with Darren and Naomi undefeated going into the last round. Darren was the winner. Lindsay is unavailable to compete in the Association Croquet Victorian Country Regionals at Rich River in April so the team will be Ian Potter (Boort), Anne Kenny, Lois Munro (Swan Hill) and Darren Barnes (Swan Hill).

Left: (left to right): Lindsay Patullo, Darren Barnes, Anne Kenny and Lois Munro.

Charlton Demo a great success GREAT atmosphere, good weather and a good roll up made for an excellent competition on a well presented ground at Charlton this last Sunday - Contributed 25th February. Thirteen senior and seventeen junior teams from eleven different brigades helped make the day a great success, brigades with members committed to the fires near Beaufort running short on runners borrowed from opposing brigades to help keep the show going and helping to keep everything running smoothly. Sedgewick “A” seniors came out on top after finishing equal on aggregate points with Beazley’s Bridge “A” but winning with a count back, Beazley’s ladies team won their division over Murrayville, Murrayville under 15’s and Miners Rest under 13’s won the junior events. Juniors were the feature of the day with ten under fifteen teams being the biggest number in this age group at our local championships for a number of years and seven under thirteen teams

Below: Ladies Aggregate winners (left to right): Dee Wiseman, Naomi Medlyn, Amy Greenaway, Rendelle Gale, Barry Wiseman [coach] and Jenny Small.

also a strong local number, hopefully these younger members carry their enthusiasm into the future and continue to support their local brigades. Local brigade Beazley’s Bridge has once again put forward a large and strong contingent with 4 senior and 5 junior teams, given the short amount of preparation time this year all teams acquitted themselves really well and all came home with medals.

Right: The newest team running for Beazley’s, in Stuart Mill shirts (left to right) Betty Batters, Morgan Greenaway, Jacob Fernandes and Sam Greenaway running in the stationary tanker event enjoyed an excellent first ever championships finishing 4th overall with aggregate points. They won their first event, Low Down Pump, came 3rd in the Wet Hose and Ladder, ran 2nd in Pumping and Priming, 4th in the Hydrant and tanker then finished 5th in the stationary Tanker therefore placing in every event for 38 aggregate points. Lower Right: Sedgewick seniors (left to right) Jack Simmons, Alex Rossen, Barry Wiseman ( Committee rep) and Ben Dreschler aggregate winners.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024 - Page 15

Page 16 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, THURSDAY MARCH 14th 2024.

SPORT

HOME DELIVERY 5495 1055

A successful week THE John Tormey stable easily took the training honours for the week with winners at Cobram and Swan Hill and a dead heat for first at the Horsham Cup meeting. “Ferocious Son”, a 13yo “Union Guy” gelding got the ball rolling on Monday at Cobram with lifetime win number 15 and total stakes now of $99,783, and then the ever reliable 7yo

“Shaq” chalked up win number 18 and took his stakemoney to $130,745 when it won easily at Swan Hill. At Horsham “Katunga Express”, a 3yo having only his third start found him-

self racing against 5 and 6yo’s compliments of the National Ratings system. After showing good gate speed, the gelded son of “Sweet Lou” made use of the sprint lane in the straight to

2023-24 Country Club ladies champions Above: Heather Esmore (left) and Lyn Moulday are St. Arnaud Country Club Champion Pair for 2023-24 . They won by 2 shots over Trish Goode and Faye Rodger.

Bealiba Hall Indoor Carpet Bowls WHAT a shot, what a bowl were what was being heard coming from both mats this week. Competition was tough, no more so than between David Price and Gary McClelland. David putting a bowl down next to the

kitty on the edge of the mat, only to have Gary come along and remove David’s bowl and replace it. Not to be outdone David said “anything you can do” and played the same shot. Was it possible? Could Gary play the same shot again? Of course he could.

- Contributed It was the play of the night fella’s, well done. Congratulations to the winning team of Chris Evans, David Price and Ly l e Streeter posting the perfect score of three wins. Until next week, happy bowling.

Inside running by Archie

catch the leader, the 5yo “Royal Division”. The finish looked a deadheat to the naked eye and this was confirmed by the judge after an unusually long deliberation with a margin of 19.2m to the third horse. Race 1 on Monday was won by “Boutika” who was bred by Kurraca studmaster Greg Hargreaves. By “Danny Bouchea” it was the 5th win for the 5yo mare who is raced by Katrina Ainsworth and trained by her husband Barry at Moyreisk. The Michael Gadsden stable also tasted success at Swan Hill training the quinella in race 2 with “Fragmental” driven b y E l l e n To r m e y defeating “Hungry Hogarth” and Ryan Sanderson. An excellent crowd attended the Birchip “Mallee Bull” Cup meeting on Sunday with the action starting early in an effort to beat the forecast 40°C temperature. The Cup winner was “Outback Queenie” who is trained at Carisbrook by Tim Mortlock and was driven by Michelle Phillips. T h e S t J o h n of God’s “Bubbles in the Bush” ovarian cancer research fundraiser is on again at this Sunday’s Charlton Cup meeting beginning at 11.00am. On the track the $30,000 Pacers Cup will be supported by a Trotters Cup and two Central Victorian Championship finals and as always entry to the course is free.

Above: Riley Burke with his 71cm cod.

45 fish caught at Retail Bend A hot long weekend saw multiple fish caught at 55cm cod. Biggest fish went to Retail Bend by the St. Arnaud Angling Club Riley with his 71cm members. - Contributed For the best competition to date, 13 men, 3 ladies and 1 junior braved the heat on the 9th and 10th of March 2024. Peter Scilini caught six yellowbelly. His biggest being 43cm. Brent Fenwick caught two yellowbelly. His biggest being 50cm. Jake Scilini caught eight yellowbelly. His biggest being 52cm. Perin Scilini caught nine yellowbelly. His biggest being

39cm. Lewis Scilini caught a 39cm yellowbelly. Ivan Wild caught a 33cm yellowbelly and a 59cm cod. Neil Robinson caught three yellowbelly. His biggest being 50cm. Riley Burke caught ten yellowbelly with his biggest being 44.7cm. Riley also caught a 71cm cod. Barney Ezard caught a 34cm yellowbelly. Joyce Wild caught a

cod. Men’s biggest bag went to Perin Scilini with a total length of 3.46m. Ladies biggest bag went to Joyce with her 55cm cod. Juniors biggest bag went to Lewis with his 39cm yellowbelly. Secret length went to Brent. It’s great to see so many fish caught up the river. Keep it up! Next competition is the Mid Northern Comp to be held at Laanecoorie on March 16 and 17.

Above: Joyce Wild with her 55cm cod.

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