24th January 2024

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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.

$2.00

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 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)

Market Square to become home to EV charging station NORTHERN Grampians Shire Council (NGSC) is proposing to install an Electric Vehicle charging station in St. Arnaud with the capacity to charge two cars simultaneously.

Originally planned for Golden Street, the Council announced in December that as a result of an Arborists Report highlighting the risk for the trees in Golden Street of the EV Charging station, the Council decided to rethink the location.

Market Square has now been identified as the ‘ideal location’, and one that will encourage users to stop and shop along St. Arnaud’s main street.

Council believes that the site also satisfies a range of required criteria including safety, location and access.

The site will not impact any of the trees in Market Square and accessible parking will be relocated to the other side of the park ramp entrance for ease of access to the park and other facilities.

NGSC say that it is expected that the charging station will be in operation by May or June 2024.

The area involved is 5.4m x 5.7m it will be inset from Market Street by 3.5m from the road.

NGSC states that the walkway (footpath) will remain unchanged.

Above: NGSC sketch of the proposed EV Charging station for Market Square.

The statistics for expected use are not yet clear, but St. Arnaud has been identified as a key location in the Destination Charging Across Victoria (DCAV) program which provide Electric Vehicle (EV) fast-charging network throughout the region.

The DCAV Program provides $5 million in grants to establish a fast-charging network across Victoria with 80% of this fund to be spent on fast-chargers in regional Victoria.

The aim of the DCAV program is to establish an EV fast-charging network at key destinations across the state.

By creating an EV fast-charging network with power ratings between 11 kW – 100 kW at key tourist destinations and high-use locations, it allows EVs to be charged while EV drivers go about their business.

These chargers will provide EVs with 100 km worth of battery power in 10 to 100 minutes.

EV owners can find the locations of chargers online (such as plugshare.com) and can plan their trip accordingly.

If you would like more information, please contact the council on 03 5358 8700.

Council gives confidence boost for potential investors in Northern Grampians Shire Above: This ‘sink hole’ has appeared in Woolpack Road, causing concern for residents.

INSET: the Hole measuring over 2.5 metres in depth.

A summer of flood water and holes THE summer break in the district has exposed large holes in the road, and not just the potholes - these are the size you would not want to drive into.

Below: Ta k e n o n t h e Wedderburn/Charlton Road early in January when the district had received a deluge again.

- PHOTO: Supplied.

The large hole is in Woolpack Road St. Arnaud and has caused the road to be closed.

Local residents are required to detour.

Wedderburn was once again under water with floodwaters on Christmas morning and again in January causing the closure of the many roads in the district.

NORTHERN Grampians Shire Council (NGSC) has simplified the requirements for mid-range developers looking to invest in the shire by increasing the stipulated monetary value for planning applications that necessitate compulsory councillor review and approval.

Councillors will no longer be required to review planning applications for developments valued between five to 15 million dollars, with the responsibility for review delegated to appropriate council staff in instances where there is no Planning Policy implication.

In Victoria, the Planning and Environment Act 1987 provides a framework for land use and development and establishes the duties and function of councils as the responsible authority.

The Act provides that certain powers, duties, and functions of a council can be delegated to a Committee of Council or to council officers and, for the purpose of efficiency, all councils have a system of delegation in place that allows officers of a council to make formal decisions on components

of planning application.

“Requirements to report to councillors can be inefficient and inconsistent, and the process can unintentionally lead to a non-planning schemebased approach to decision making.

“Best practice among councils would suggest that more than 95 percent of applications are dealt with by officers to enable effective and efficient delivery of the statutory planning process,” Mayor of NG Shire, Cr Rob Haswell said when addressing the reasoning behind the change in procedure.

“By increasing the value of planning applications required to go through to councillors for approval, we should reduce the number of low-risk applications being drawn out for decision and by doing this we aim to create

greater consistency in the regulatory process.

“This in turn will ideally create greater investor confidence within our municipality and reduce the risk of timeline blow outs and greater reliability in the planning scheme’s application, without comprising on rigorous decision making and exposure to risk,” added Cr Haswell.

The recent changes align with NGSC Plan 202125 strategies to boost economic growth by building more houses and ensuring that land use policy enables housing investment, to grow local business by encouraging commercial investment in the region, and to improve organisational effectiveness.

NGSC retains the ability to call in any application for final decision on matters of particular sensitivity.

To the Editor 18 Napier St., St. Arnaud, Victoria 3478.

CFA Chief in the Smoke Dear Editor, I refer to page 8 of The Weekly Times, edition printed on 17/01/24,

advertisement placed

by TCV - Transmission Company Victoria.

It’s just another day for TCV who (by the way) don’t hold the official accreditation to be a ‘transmission company’, however remain to call their self-one, using

Editorial Does St. Arnaud’s existence rely on having a GP? Lately it seems that the very existence of rural and also regional communities relies on the whim of professionals that can choose to practice in the cities and ignore the rural life that so many of us take for granted and as a plus in our lives.

It may not be a stretch to say that St. Arnaud’s very existence in the long run may rely on having a GP. Dr. Vesna and Dr. Darko are on the precipice of retirement and that is throwing quite a shudder down the spines of many who believe that without a GP in St. Arnaud that the existence of the hospital is in jeopardy and that without a GP that it will become even more difficult to attract new resident especially families.

This is not a new phenomenon for rural towns in fact there are a number of towns much closer in to Melbourne that are facing the same crisis. The A Pearcedale Medical Clinic, currently with 3 GPs serving about 3,000 residents, is less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne but cannot find new GPs to add to their staff. This is because Pearcedale has F not been included as a Distribution Priority Area (DPA) where overseas-trained medical graduates E can work long-term. This scheme is the federal government’s plan to limit where international medical graduates are allowed to work, to encourage doctors to work in areas that are difficult to staff.

There are other stories of towns that are clearly not metropolitan but do not make the DPA listing C and they are making a lot of noise about what they see as the inadequacies of the system. The Health Department will therefore review the policy dueCto these stories and this will be completed this year.

Currently, St. Arnaud is classified as a DPA area but this is where it gets tricky because if areas like Pearcedale are included as an area of DPA then they are more likely to be preferred areas rather than a town like St. Arnaud due to their proximity to Melbourne. The system of distribution priority areas was developed to assist towns like St. Arnaud up the ladder in terms of attractability to GPs and if towns like Pearcedale are added to the list, then those in greatest need, that is those that do not have a GP at all, may then miss out.

The St. Arnaud Medical Centre is a private practice, not controlled or managed by the East Wimmera Health Centre, who merely own the building as part of their commitment to support a medical practice that will work with them in offering a standard of health care to the community. The responsibility therefore for ‘passing on’ the medicalD centre falls squarely on Drs. Slipcevic. They either can choose to, or can actually retire without, finding replacements. It is a difficult task and we thank them and wish them luck in finding GPs to fill their shoes. They are, we are told, heading for that retirement in July when they will be flying to Croatia.

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.

arrogance as their bluff.

Comments such as ‘as a rule, transmission lines don’t start bushfires’.

The Royal Commission into The Black Saturday bushfires found Transmission lines were responsible for igniting 6 of those blazes.

The East Kilmore Blaze alone, 119 lives were lost, 1,242 homes were destroyed. $500 million dollars was paid out in Australia’s largest class action lawsuit as result.

That comment alone is a pure example of TCV’s deceitful behaviour.

Advising they will simply ‘turn the transmission lines off’ to allow us volunteers to fight fires.

Did they forget that the VNI West (Victoria New South Wales Interconnector) is just that?

Turn it off and Australia’s southeastern states have no power…. At what point do the lives of country CFA volunteers fighting wildfire, protecting their communities outweigh the desire of millions of city folk Qld want their power? who 4217 What about the CFA and furthermore our Fire1 800 Chief, 652 284Jason Hefferman, quoting you can fight fires around transmission lines providing the incident controller advises it’s safe or the flames are less than 2m Ted Whilliera stanhigh….being dard CFA volunteer, if you are first on scene, Matt then youTrickey are the incident controller until further notice… that’s a big call for a volunteer!

I (CFA Volunteer) am yet to receive any ‘training’ regarding control measures of fighting fires near transmission lines…the only advise I have received (call it training if you will?) is (this can also be seen on the CFA’s web page) that you must remain at least 25m from the transmission line easements.

Dense smoke versus not as dense…when was the last time you were on the fire ground Chief?

No paddock is the same, no fuel load is the same, (generally speaking) when there is fire, there is wind, it is unpredictable.

The height of the flames change as quick as the fire burns.

Maybe when we get out training the ‘other suppression methods’ will be advised?

Page 2 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024.

But let me take a Phone: (03) 5495 1055; step back…when the Email: ncn@iinet.net.au fire is too dangerous (due to the transmission lines and dense St. Arnaud, Charlton & surrounding districts smoke) to fight from the ground, you’re sayN.C.N. INFORMATION Dear Editor, ing that aircraft will assist in the suppresI am writing in The North Central News is 100% locally owned, sion? regards the hole that independent newspaper, established in 1864. With Surely as the Chief is in the wall of the St. an ABC audited circulation of 1,650 copies, and an you understand that Arnaud government estimated readership of over 4,250 throughout the Northern Grampians and Buloke Shires. smoke is a fantastic dam. conductor of electricity It is situated below SUBSCRIPTIONS as is water, 540 KV of V i e w Po i n t a n d Annual subscription for 12 months is only $144.00 electricity looking to (inc. GST), including postage and packaging. impacts extra floodarc (naturally), you are ing in the township ADVERTISING & COPY DETAILS advising that a steel when we have heavy Artwork, and all advertisements or alterations are aircraft will operate rain, will it ever get to be submitted before 5.00pm Friday prior to within that 25m buffer fixed this year? publication. zone, dropping some Announcements of births, deaths, marriages and Who is responsible 3000L of water through engagements must be properly authenticated. for it to get fixed? that dense smoke onto N.C.N. prefers advertisement and editorial copy to be Regards, the flames that are typed or neatly hand-written to avoid being published 4217 lapping at the transNot incorrectly. We accept no responsibility for error or mission lines? misspellings in illegible advertisement and editorial copy.

“The Wild Thing” 1 800 652 284 Have the courage to (Name and F DISCLAIMER protect your volunteer’s address supplied) The views and opinions expressed in this publication E Chief and rise above are not necessarily those held by the publisher or TCV’s smoke. editor. The publisher and staff accept no liability for Letters continued Glenden Watts, injury or losses which may occur as a result of page 22.

Coonooer Bridge. information presented in this publication.

Ted Whillier C © Copyright 2023 Matt Trickey No. 10120 C

St. Arnaud government dam

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ACROSS 3 Funicular railway carriages 8 Barren place 9 Makes up for 11 Calming drug 14 Eel­like fish 17 Breakfast food 19 Sheltered side 20 Annoying child 22 Message 24 Parcel out 26 Farm birds 28 Rubber 31 Bird 32 Do wrong 34 Delight 36 Rodents 38 Commanding 41 Enzyme produced by the stomach 42 Have high opinion of 43 Acts of retaliation

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DOWN 1 Probability 2 Put to a purpose 3 Container 4 Garb 5 Extended in a line 6 Bludgeon 7 Reddening agent 10 Superintendents 12 Nobleman 13 Thespian 15 Tree 16 Numeral 18 Convict 20 Bread maker 21 Watchful 23 Fresher 25 Faucet 27 Observed 29 Inclines 30 Arranged like rays 33 Scope 35 Transmits 37 Goading device 39 Wading bird 40 Merriment

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70 Woods Street, Donald — 5497 1211 See this week’s solution on page 18.

Council Rates Cap will mean a smaller increase this year for residents LOCAL Government Council rate increases will be capped at the forecast Consumer Price Index for next financial year.

Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne has announced the rate cap of 2.75 per cent for 2024-25 under the State Government’s Fair Go Rates system.

Ms Horne said that Fair Go Rates mean households have certainty over their council rates and in 2024-25, the increase will be kept to the forecast inflation rate.

“The rates cap has made a real difference to household budgets over the past eight years and we’ll keep working to reduce costs for families.”

The Government accepted the recommendation of the Essential Ser vices Commission regarding the cap, which is equal to the forecast Consumer Price Index for 2024-25.

The rate cap limits the amount all Victorian councils can increase their total revenue from general rates and municipal charges.

Ministerial Guidelines have also been released for service rates and charges for the collection of kerbside waste and recycling from properties.

Service rates and charges used to fund waste collection and management are not subject to the rate cap.

The Guidelines detail that services that provide a general benefit to the whole municipality, such as

Special $10.00 pp !

tree planting, graffiti removal and street cleaning, should not funded by service rates or charges to individual ratepayers.

The State Government introduced the Fair Go Rates system in 2016 to reduce cost of living pressures and that has been achieved.

In the decade before the introduction of the rate cap, council rates increased by an average of 6 per cent per annum.

The average rate cap between 2016-17 and 2023-24 was 2.25 per cent.

Councils are able to apply for a higher rate cap if they can demonstrate community support and a critical need for spending on services or projects that require a rate rise above the capped amount.

There were no applications for an exemption this financial year, when the cap was set at 3.5 per cent.

For more information go to localgovern ment.vic.gov.au/council-innovation-and-perf ormance.

GWMWater runner up in Minister’s climate challenge GWMWater will receive $85,000 to develop a community business model for local electricity supplies that will be piloted at Donald.

GWMWater placed Runner Up in the Water Minister’s Climate Innovation Challenge, a collaboration between the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), Intelligent Water Networks (IWN) and the Minister for Water Harriet Shing to promote innovation in addressing the challenges of climate change within the Victorian water sector.

A total of 13 entries were received across Victoria, with six entries, including GWMWater’s Donald Community Energy Pilot Project shortlisted.

School Holidays Matinees Disney’s “WISH” Thu 25 Jan @ 2.00 pm & Sun 28 Jan @ 2.00 pm

________________________________________________

St Arnaud Young Farmers Harvest Festival Free Screening for children!

“MIGRATION” Sat 03 Feb @ 4.00 pm

________________________________________________

Gift Passes 5 for $45.00; 10 for $90.00

Please P check our website and Facebook page for updates www.starnaudcinema.com Ph. 0408 559 246

St Arnaud Community Update Standpipe relocation Planning approvals for the relocation of the standpipe have now been received and the contract has been awarded to Halls Gap Plumbing for installation of the pipework that will run to the new standpipe location. !"#$%&'()(!"*)++",!"-!+./%$!'"!"#$%&#'$($&)*%+(&!%$&,*-./$#$01&%&'" )#"!0(!/$!'"$.",! fully operational 23&early 1213.

Pressure improvements Approvals have been received to replace the Bowen Street main. A contract has been awarded to Halls Gap Plumbing for these works.

We expect these works to be completed by mid-2024.

4orks !"#$%#&#'()*$+##'$&,-.)#(#/$to upgrade water mains in Preece, George and Howitt Streets.

Further opportunities to improve pressure in St Arnaud will also be considered once works are completed to relocate the standpipe.

We’re here for you 24/7 Please continue to report any changes or problems with your water or wastewater services. Our 1800 188 586 number is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The funding received will be used for a commercial options assessment and feasibility study to determine how a local electricity supply would deliver benefits to communities.

The project proposes an electricity supply system pilot to deliver more reliable, locally produced clean energy at an affordable cost.

The project has the support of Donald 2000 Inc., a community group that aims to develop and maintain the liveability of Donald.

Chair of Donald 2000 Inc., John McConville, said Donald was a proactive and innovative community.

“Donald has been at the forefront of trying to get an independent and more secure energy source for some time,” Mr McConville said.

GWMWater Managing Director, Mark Williams, said the project aligns with the organisation’s broader clean energy strategy.

“The pilot project supports the development of a localised, carbon-neutral circular economy within Donald that could be replicated in other townships across our region,” he said.

“GWMWater is pleased to have the support of Donald 2000 Inc. for a project that will if successful, contribute to the prosperity of the region,” Mr Williams said.

For more information about the challenge, visit: climateinnovationchallen ge.org.au

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024 - Page 3

Charlton 100 Years: 9th – 19th January 1924 Last minute thrills The dying hours of 1923 were marked by fier y outbursts in some parts of this district.

The most serious conflagration occurred in the standing wheat crop belonging to M e s s r s R . a n d W. Chalmers, of Wychitella.

Two hundred acres, which had been estimated to yield 12 bags to the acre, were burned.

One of the harvest fields on Mrs Gill’s farm at Yeungroon was the scene of another outbreak.

The fire originated as the result of a bearing of the harvester becoming hot.

The outbreak was quickly extinguished by the driver of the harvester (Mr Harold Gill), and his assistant (Mr L. Elliott), who beat out the flames with bags.

About two acres of light stubble was burned.

A fire broke out at Waitchie in the crop of Mrs M. Richardson.

A strong, hot wind was blowing but the fire-fighters were successful in their efforts.

Mrs Richardson’s loss was about 60 acres of crop.

Great Snakes It is reported that during hay-making operations just outside Charlton on one day, 11 snakes were killed in one paddock.

They were stated to be of the brown and grass varieties.

Cycling

We have all the latest cutting-edge equipment: Bulldozers, Truck, Scrapers, GPS Graders, Excavators, Tip Trucks for roads, Shed Pads, Dams and all general earthmoving.

A Charlton “knight of the Wheel”, in the person of Mr H. P. Arnall, did rather well at the Maryborough Highland Society’s gathering, against competition which included Richmond, Ballarat, Bendigo, Eaglehawk, and Maryborough talent.

In the £12 mile event, Arnall won his heat and in the final finished second.

In the £8 half mile stakes, the Charlton cyclist captured his heat, but was unplaced in the final.

Brass Band Good fellowship was the keynote of a ceremony which followed the Band’s practice in the Fire

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Page 4 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024.

-by Charlton Golden Grains Museum Station.

Mr Charles Carrick, who has been a conscientious servant of the firm of J. C. T. Frahm, is leaving to take up a position in Melbourne.

Mr Carrick has been a member of the Charlton “All Star” Comedy Co. The Band presented him with a set of gold sleevelinks.

Famous Fishing It is pleasing to record excellent and well-verified work by two anglers, S. G. Bennett and A. E. Wylie, at Glenloth on New Year’s Day. They opened 1924 in great style by landing 19 cod fish from the Avoca, the largest of which weighed 13lb and the total weight was 91lb.

The anglers fished from a boat. Local residents consider the catch to be a record for this part of the Avoca.

Victoria Hall Steady progress has been made with the work of demolishing the old supper and dressing-rooms at the rear of Victoria Hall.

Trenches are being cut, and the new foundations laid for the new supper-rooms and the new dressingrooms.

The contract represents over £1400, and the contractor is Mr Foll Gilmore.

Above: 1922 All Star Comedy Co. Back row: Ted Dabron, Ike Richards, Charlie Carrick. Front row: Mabel James, Eilleen Dillon and Violet Wood. and Chevrolet cars, while there is also a Peugeot in the town.

The knell of the dray, buggy, gig, and spring-cart is being sounded!

The Hand of Death Charlton has lost one of its oldest and most respected personalities by the death of Mrs Charlotte Bannon, who passed away at the age of 74.

The late Mrs Bannon was born at Lumley, England, in 1850 – the year before the great Exhibition at the Crystal Palace, London.

She came to Australia when seven years of age, and was thus a colonist of 67 years.

Mrs Bannon had been a resident of Charlton for the past 45 years.

She was predeceased by the late Mr Jas. Bannon 16 years ago.

The late Mrs Bannon leaves a family of 10.

Prosperous Charlton

New Bridge

The number of m o t o r- c a r s o w n e d therein furnishes a fairly reliable indication as to the prosperity or otherwise of a town; and in this respect the visitor to Charlton cannot fail to be impressed by the number of automobiles to be seen about the streets.

One may behold Dodge, the Italian Fiat, Overland, Buick, Ford, Morris-oxford, Studebaker, Nash, Essex, Hupmobile,

The Roads Board has decided to construct a new bridge at Charlton.

It will replace the ancient structure which has bridged the Avoca in storm and shine for over 56 years.

It was built in 1867

by Mr Paterson, father of Messrs John and James Paterson, of Nardoo Pa r k Buckrabanyule.

(Information from East Charlton Tribune)

Above: 1911c Victoria Hall

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Council commits to elevating Stawell Gift legacy NORTHERN Grampians Shire Council (NGSC) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the Stawell Gift, signing a significant fouryear partnership agreement with Stawell Gift Event Management last week that will see the council invest $400,000 in the prestigious Australian athletics carnival over the next four years.

Signed by NGSC CEO Brent McAlister and Independent Stawell Gift Event Management Board Member and Chair Finance, Audit and Risk Management Committee Neil Brennan at the Stawell Gift Hall of Fame, the partnership agreement is designed to preserve and invigorate the Stawell Gift and its legacy within the shire, with funding from the council also expected to enhance community engagement while supporting economic growth and an upsurge in tourism within the Northern Grampians region over coming years.

Mayor of NGSC, Cr Rob Haswell, expressed his enthusiasm for the renewed partnership following the signing, emphasising the importance of the 147-year-old event to Northern Grampians and the Australian athletics community.

“As a council, we recognise the immense potential for

expansion and enrichment, and we are committed to ensuring that the Stawell Gift continues to inspire and grow.

“As a community we are extremely proud of the whole carnival and have been for generations.

“It is a major part of the Australian sporting calendar and the council's dedication mirrors the historical significance of the event as well as the joy and opportunity it offers locals, athletes, and visitors alike.

“It is a rare and incredible opportunity to witness some of the greatest athletes in the world compete on a grass track up close and personal in regional Victoria,” said Mayor Haswell.

“We have a storied history of supporting and facilitating the event, notably contributing to the maintenance and enhancement of Central Park's oval and the grass surface for the track events and this partnership is

designed to fortify, expand and sustain this important event for many years to come,” added Mayor Haswell.

Speaking on behalf of Stawell Gift Event Management Board, Neil Brennan also highlighted the importance of the shared commitment between both parties.

"Stawell Gift Event Management is delighted to once again partner with the Northern Grampians Shire Council through the signing of a sign i f i c a n t f o u r- y e a r partnership agreement, cementing a dynamic partnership between the two organisations.

“This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to promote tourism and attract residents to the Northern Grampians Region through the delivery of the iconic Stawell Gift."

The annual event is held at Central Park in Stawell over the Easter long weekend and sees thousands of

athletes, supporters and tourists travel to the area, transforming the historic gold mining town of Stawell into an athletics mecca.

The Po w e r c o r Stawell Gift, known as Australia’s richest footrace, is run on a grass track over 120m up a slight gradient, with athletes handicapped according to form and ability.

The final is traditionally held on Easter Monday.

Above: (left to right) NGSC CEO Brent McAlister with SGEM Board Member Neil Brennan at the signing of the partnership agreement at the Stawell Gift Hall of Fame.

NOW OPEN 79 - 81 Napier Street, ST. ARNAUD

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024 - Page 5

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Above: (left to right) Tim Segrave, Liam Segrave, the bride and groom, Simone Costanzo.

PHOTO: Supplied.

November wedding in the Gardens THE Queen Mary Gardens was the venue for the wedding of Mahalia Martin and Joshua Segrave on 25th November 2023.

After the ceremony the reception was held at the St. Arnaud Town Hall.

The couple have made their home in Wyndham Vale.

TRUCK HIRE See Lyal Eales Stores

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LYAL EALES STORES •Camping •Disposals •Hardware •Homewares

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59 NAPIER STREET, ST. ARNAUD. PH: (03) 5495 2021 Monday to Thursday 9am - 5.30pm; Friday 9am - 6pm; Saturday & Sunday 9am - 2pm

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Page 6 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024 - Page 7

Charlton Probus -

December Celebrations DECEMBER is a time to celebrate fun, friendship and fellowship.

Charlton Probians embraced the Christmas spirit and the president welcomed everybody and thanked all of the members for contributing to the warmth and camaraderie that has made the gatherings so special this year.

December Probus Meeting On Friday, 8th December, our club had a wonderful

breakup lunch at the Charlton Golf Club.

The lunch was a sea of Christmas hats and smiling faces as Charlton Probains gathered to celebrate the end of the year and holiday cheer.

Thank you A big thank you to the members of the Golf Club for providing a delicious Christmas lunch and drinks, followed by a wonderful desert.

- Contributed

Singing of the Probus Song Members sang the Probus Song with special gusto, keen to get the vocal cords warmed up for the Christmas Carols to follow.

Reports and Celebrations Our Treasurer reported that we are in good standing and

Above: (left to right) Mary Nener and Lee Parker sporting their Christmas hats and smiles.

Page 8 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024.

Above: Probus members enjoying their Christmas Lunch. hopefully the funds can be used to provide more outings for our members in the New Year.

With 42 members, 1 guest in attendance and 16 apologies, the Christmas lunch was a well-attended gathering.

December birthdays were celebrated, with warm wishes extended to Patricia Saunders, Sue Walsh and Kim Wishart.

Our Outings Officer, Sandra Patton, reminded us that as the end of the year approaches and a new year begins the outings will be kept low key, not travelling

far from Charlton, January will see a member of BAREC (Bendigo Amateur Radio and Electronics Club) attending our meeting.

Carols Gill Gretgrix accompanied the Combined Charlton Probus carollers (everybody) as they belted out a number of traditional tunes both before and after lunch.

Everybody enjoyed

the traditional favourites such as Jingle Bells.

Christmas Hat comp It was great to see everybody participate in the Christmas Hats Competition with the winners being Graham Curnow and L ee Parker.

Right: Marj Bartlett reading Grace for the lunch.

Above: (left to right) Graham Curnow and Lee Parker winners of the Christmas Hat Competition.

Wonderful Wonka TAKE your seats for one of the most anticipated family friendly movies to hit the big screen – the wonderful, extraordinary Willy Wonka - an inventor, magician and chocolate-maker whose story is told in this prequel movie “Wonka”, starring heart throb, Timothée Chalamet.

In this vivid and inventive big screen spectacle audiences are introduced to a young Willy Wonka, who is chock-full of ideas and determined to change the world one delectable bite at a time—proving that the best things in life begin with a dream, and if you’re lucky enough to meet Willy Wonka, anything is possible.

Supported by a stellar cast, including Hugh Grant, Jim Carter, Matt Lucas and

Olivia Coleman, amongst others, this is a fantasy of visual and musical delight, guaranteed to capture your imagination and hold it throughout the 116 minute running time.

Audience reviews applaud the charming nature of the film, as it reveals the back-stary to the Gene Wilder version of 1971.

Called the “Sultan of Sweets” by one reviewer, the balance of comedy and drama holds appeal for all

Contributed ages as a creatively imagined world unfolds through the mind-blowing visuals.

This is one movie you will not want to miss, and of course make sure you to stock up with plenty of chocolate to get you through the screening.

“Wonka” (PG 116 minutes) screens at The Rex on Saturday 27th January at 8pm, Sunday 28th January at 2pm and Tuesday 30th January at 8pm.

COVID Updates and Developments Victorian Stats C o m m u n i t y transmission of COVID19 was increasing across Victoria in early January with a rapid increase in hospitalizations however, the number in hospitals is now declining this week to a daily average of 294, compared to 369 last week.

The advice is to wear a face mask if you have symptoms or in high-risk settings The current average of the incidence of COVID in the community remains high but below the peak in May/June.

The 7-day average of ICU patients also declined this week (16 to 11).

The latest quantitative wastewater measures indicate decreasing COVID-19 viral loads in Victorian wastewater in both metropolitan and regional catchments.

Higher levels of S A R S - C o V- 2 in wastewater suggest higher prevalence of COVID-19 infections in the community.

Deaths in the most recent 28-day period (06/12/2023 – 02/01/2024) declined compared to the prior 28-day period (08/11/2023 – 05/12/2023), with a current 28-day total of 157.

Increases and decreases in the reporting of deaths attributable to COVID 19 tend to lag waves of infections and hospitalisations by several weeks. (Note that reporting periods for deaths are lagged by 2 weeks to allow for delays in data collection) Fo l l o w i n g r a p i d growth in early December, JN.1 (a sublineage of BA.2.86) has become the most prevalent single subvariant in Victorian wastewater samples.

JN.1 is also the most prevalent variant of interest globally.

The origins of COVID The New York Times is reporting that before the pandemic, there were overlooked clues from Chinese scientists Newly released documents indicate that a U.S. genetic database had received the sequence of the coronavirus two weeks before it was made public by others.

The genetic code, submitted by Chinese scientists to a vast public repository of sequencing data run by the U.S. government, described a mysterious new virus that had infected a 65year-old man weeks earlier in Wuhan.

At the time the code was sent, Chinese officials had not yet warned of the unexplained pneumonia sickening patients in the central city of Wuhan.

But the U.S. repository, which was designed to help scientists share run-ofthe-mill research data, never added the submission it received on 28th December, 2019, to its database.

Instead, it asked the Chinese scientists three days later to resubmit the genetic sequence with certain additional technical details. That request went unanswered.

The new information suggests China was not honest about what was known about the virus in the early days of the pandemic.

The extra few weeks could have proved crucial in helping the international medical community pinpoint how COVID spread, develop medical defences and get started on an eventual vaccine.

Now there are new concerns that Chinese scientists are experimenting with a virus related to Covid-19 which has a 100 per cent kill rate in “humanised” mice.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024 - Page 9

Charlton College Awards Ceremony CHARLTON College’s Awards Ceremony was held on Monday 18th December at the REX Cinema with a large crowd present.

School Captains, Tahli Roberts and Tyler Riley, compered the event.

After the initial welcome, as is tradition, all present sang the National Anthem, the younger members of the College singing the second verse, in strong voice, much to the delight of all present.

In their address’, School Council President, Troy Heenan and Principal Jamie Daff both noted the strength and professionalism of the staff who go above and beyond to support our students and make Charlton College a great school.

Literary Awards This year Charlton Pharmacy sponsored the Literary Awards.

Dayne Bartlett’s piece titled, ‘One Half’ won her the Ben Green Award.

Contributed Campbell Riley was the recipient of the F-2 Literacy Award for his piece ‘Crack and Hot Dogs Adventure’.

In the Year 3-6 categor y Tamsyn McGurk’s narrative piece entitled ‘The 100km Marathon’ was judged the winning piece.

The Years 7 to 9 writer’s award, was received by Josie Larmour, for her piece entitled, ‘Where are you Clara?’

The HMP good stor y award, was awarded to Annie Olive for her memoir piece ‘What Makes Me, Me?’

Defence Force Awards The Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership Award recipients were Bailey Hooper-Dixon and

Above; Year 12 Class of 2023: (left to right): Tyler Riley, Lochlan Sullivan, Lennon Jablonka, Bailey Hooper-Dixon, Angus Johnstone, Jacob Olive, Tahli Roberts, Alinta Marshall and Wil Nicholson.

Emmersyn Nelson.

These students were acknowledged for the leadership and teamwork they have demonstrated within the school and broader community and for demonstrating values considered integral to the ADF and Australian society.

ADF also provided funding for a Future Innovators Award.

The recipients of this were L ennon Jablonka and Zali Heenan.

This award aims to encourage the next generation of innovators, critical thinkers

Page 10 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024.

and problem solvers by recognising their success in STEM subjects.

Other Awards Eve Mulquiny, Stella Nicolson and Emily Olive were awarded for exhibiting the Colleges Three R’s, Respect, Responsibility and Resilience, each receiving Parent’s Clubs SWPBS award for their relative area of the College.

The Bourke family award in Oscar’s name, was awarded to Building and Construction student Cooper Boyle.

Along with the scholarship Cooper was presented with a Perpetual Trophy.

The North Central LLEN, again sponsored the Vocational Pathways award.

Angus Johnstone was the recipient of this.

While Gill Gretgrix was present to accept the Workplace of the Year Award on behalf of the Charlton Op Shop.

Jamie Daff, alongside Deb Whykes, Vice President of the Charlton Neighbourhood House, presented L ennon Jablonka with the Charlton Dux Scholarship for 2023.

Lennon achieved an ATAR of 84.5.

On receiving the scholarship Lennon acknowledged not only his parents, but his peers for shaping him

into the person he is today.

He acknowledged the support from staff who supported him along his educational journey.

The evening concluded with the College Captain’s report where they acknowledged the memories, they will take with them and thanked the work of all staff at the College.

Above: Dux, Lennon Jablonka (right) was presented by Deb Whykes (Charlton Neighbourhood House).

Above: Parent’s Clubs SWPBS awards - (left to right) Emily Olive, Eve Mulquiny and Stella Nicolson.

Is Government putting tax relief at risk during Cost of Living Crisis?

MEMBER for Mallee Anne Webster believes that the Federal Government must keep the legislated Stage 3 Tax Cuts in order to provide budget relief for thousands of working Australian families.

As L abor backbenchers, Members on the Crossbench and powerful Unions lobby the Government to renege on its commitment to keep the Coalition-introduced policy, Dr Webster called on the Prime Minister to ensure it remained.

“We need to provide tax relief to those who have shouldered the burden of Australia’s Cost of Living crisis – hard workers like those in Mallee who, despite increased wages are no better off, because wages have not kept pace with inflation,” Dr Webster said.

“Over the past 18 months income taxes have gone up by more than 27 per cent according to National Accounts data, which has helped propel the Government into surplus as they look to tax their way out of Australia’s Cost of Living black hole.

“The mums and dads paying those taxes deserve relief so they can continue feeding their families and keep the lights on at home.”

Under the cuts, a person earning $60,000 will pay $375 less tax, a person earning $70,000 will save $625 and a person earning $80,000 will save $875 according to figures from The Tax Institute As a result of the cuts, millions of aver-

age wage earners will claw back money lost over the years because tax brackets had not been adjusted with rises in income.

Statistics show that the number of Australians in the top tax bracket has doubled in the sixteen years since it was introduced.

The Prime Minister and Treasurer Jim Chalmers, who both voted against the cuts when in Opposition, promised at the last Federal Election they would not change them.

But it has been revealed Dr Chalmers asked Treasury for advice on the impact of making changes to the Stage 3 Tax Cuts last year, as Members of his Government continue to put pressure on them.

“Labor has already broken promises on taxes – raising taxes on franking credits, on Australian companies, on retirement savings, on non-government schools, and an unprecedented tax on unrealised capital gains, while they also let the Low and Middle Income Earner Tax Offset go by the wayside,” Dr Webster said.

“The Stage 3 Tax Cuts will support the millions of working Australians Labor has refused to, the Government must not interfere with them.”

Above: All Rounders – (left to right) Cooper Boyle, Heidi Start and Thomas McGurk.

VNI West Community News As we talk to landholders and members of the local community across the VNI West draft corridor, we are hearing genuine concerns about managing and fighting fires around transmission lines.

This month, “Community News” looks at high voltage transmission and bushfires and answers the common questions we’ve heard on this important topic.

We also recognise that TCV are not the experts in fighting fires, which is why we’ve worked with fire authorities such as the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Victoria’s safety regulator Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) to find the answers.

Do transmission lines increase the risk of bushfires?

As a rule, transmission lines don’t start fires. Importantly, in a major bushfire emergency, transmission can be “turned off”, so there is no power running through the lines.

“Transmission lines, when managed and maintained properly, pose a very low risk of starting a fire.”

Energy Safe Victoria

Can you fight a fire around transmission lines?

Yes - bushfires have been safely and successfully fought around transmission across the country for decades.

By law, the companies that own and maintain transmission lines must work with fire authorities to ensure that firefighting is possible around transmission.

“In a bushfire response, an assessment will be made by the Incident Controller - and if it is considered safe to do so, responding crews can operate near transmission lines. Firefighters receive training on the control measures for fighting fires near transmission lines.”

CFA Victoria

Is it more dangerous for firefighters?

“There are dangers for firefighters in relation to potential arcing from overhead transmission lines, but this can be, and is, managed through an assessment of the fire and the different responses available.

“Low-intensity grassfires (with flames less than 2m in height), which don’t produce dense smoke contacting the transmission lines, can be managed on the ground, using normal procedures. Where there is more intense fire activity and dense smoke, a 25m safety buffer is applied. In these instances, there is a range of different fire suppression options, including the use of firefighting aircraft.”

Jason Heffernan, Chief Officer CFA

Is bushfire risk being taken into account?

Yes. TCV would like to assure the community that evaluating bushfire risk is a priority as we refine the corridor for VNI West.

As part of the strict project review and approvals process, a detailed fire risk assessment must be conducted by an independent expert, with input from fire authorities including the CFA. Your feedback is important. Please get in touch through the channels below to raise any questions or comments and access further information. You are also invited to visit the new TCV regional office in Kerang, to find more information or to chat with a member of the TCV project team.

Contact us Email: Freecall: Website: TCV Regional Office:

enquiries@transmissionvictoria.com.au 1800 824 221 transmissionvictoria.com.au Patchell Plaza, 47 Victoria Street, Kerang Open Tuesdays 11.30am to 5pm and Wednesdays 8.45am to 2pm

For further information on bushfires and transmission “Fighting Fires around Transmission Lines” www.CFA.vic.gov.au “Electricity Transmission Lines – Bushfire Management and Community Safety” www.esv.vic.gov.au NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024 - Page 11

In The Paddock Recent rainfall may have put your hay at risk FARMERS need to be mindful that even wellmade hay can still be prone to spontaneous combustion.

Agriculture Victoria Program Manager for Dairy - North, Brett Davidson, said spontaneous combustion is usually caused by excess moisture at baling.

“Fires can also start due to heavy rainfall events which has soaked into stacks.

“Intense rainfall could compromise

even well covered stacks, as water can pool at the base of a stack, seep into gaps or could be blown under covers,” he said.

Mr Davidson said for those with moisture meters, ideally hay moisture levels should be in the following ranges: - 16% - 18% for small bales

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- 14% - 16% for large round bales.

- 12% - 14% for large square balaes - up to 12% for export hay Mr Davidson said it’s vitally important to regularly monitor the stack from 1 week after rainfall for signs of heating.

He said the signs of heating are: • dampness on the tops of bales • steam rising from the stack • moisture build-up on roofing iron or under tarps of outside stacks •unusual odours (e.g. pipe tobacco, caramel, burning, musty) • sometimes the stack may slump in places • corrosion on underside of tin roof.

Mr Davidson said unfortunately, much of the heating will occur in the stack centre which is difficult to pick up.

“To try and get an idea on how hot a stack has become, use a crowbar pushed into

the stack as far as possible and after a couple of hours, remove the crowbar and feel how hot it is.”

A rough guideline to check a haystacks temperature using a crowbar, is as follows: • 50° you can handle the bar without discomfort.

Check temperature daily • 50 – 60° you can handle the bar for a short time.

Check temperature twice daily • 60 – 70° you can touch bar only briefly.

Check temperature every 2 hours.

Move hay from top layers to improve air flow • 70° the bar is too hot to hold.

Potential for fire avoid walking on top of stack.

Mr Davidson said an alternative monitoring method can be achieved by using thermal couplings, which can be placed into various areas of the stack at stacking and monitored simply and regularly. For more information head to agriculture.vic.gov.au

BCG launches Over the Fence – an insight into family farming “FINALLY, it’s important to remember that no amount of money will suffice for time spent with your family. “When you need a holiday take it; the farm isn't going anywhere. “You won’t remember the extra kilometre of fence you got up, but you will remember the time spent camping with your kids.” - Adrian Coatsworth, Wycheproof.

Farmers involved in a series of weekly interviews compiled in the publication Over the Fence were invited to celebrate its launch at the BCG Members’ Christmas Party, held at the Birchip Leisure Centre on Thursday 21st December.

Over the Fence is free and are available by calling the BCG office on (03) 5492 2787.

In launching the book, North West Node Leader of the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub, Grace Hosking said that as one of the initiatives of BCG’s involvement in the Vic Drought Hub, BCG is proud to present the second generation of Over the Fence viewed through the lens of drought resilience.

“The series seeks to capture pearls of wisdom derived from lived experiences, share information, and inspire innovative approaches to proactive risk mitigation.

Additionally, the series puts a spotlight on the diverse business profiles thriving in the region, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of our local communities,” Ms Hosking said.

“BCG thanks all interviewees for their selfless participation in Over the Fence and the photographers who captured the magnificence of the landscape and people of north west Victoria.”

Background In 2005 and 2006, Birchip Cropping Group (BCG) compiled

a series of weekly interviews titled Over the Fence. This project engaged farmers and individuals working within the industry, facilitating insightful discussions on various topics. The series, initiated during a period of drought, aimed to foster connections among people and share valuable information.

Fast forward to 2023 and BCG is at the forefront of supporting farmers through the Federal Government Future Drought Fund (FDF) initiative. The FDF provides a platform for localised consultation, planning and project trial opportunities, forming crucial partnerships with grower groups such as BCG to enhance drought resilience.

LAND AUCTION BURKES FLAT – CENTRAL VICTORIA 381.85 Hectares/ 943.55 Acres

THURSDAY 15TH FEBRUARY 2024 @ 11:30am SHARP! AT RHEOLA TOWN HALL ACCOUNT: ESTATE OF EILEEN PERRY

To be offered in 2 Lots Lot 1: “Wallis’s & “Lindorff’s” Burkes Flat- Wedderburn Rd, Fentons Creek • 282.59 Hectares / 698.27 Acres • 3 Titles • 2 Paddocks • 2 Dams • 90% Arable

Lot 2: “Brown’s” Burkes Flat- Wedderburn Rd, Logan • 99.26 Hectares / 245.27 Acres • 2 Titles • 1 Paddock • 3 Dams • 95% Arable

Terms: 10% Deposit on signing, balance in 60 days Immediate working possession (T’s & C’s apply) Further Particulars: Luke Nevins: 0418 510 166 FP NEVINS DOES NOT WARRANT THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED ABOVE

Page 12 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024.

Week ending Thursday 18 January 2024

— By Glendon Hancock

THIS week's auction featured another substantial offering with 49,905 bales presented to exporters, following closely behind the nearly 50,884 bales offered in the previous sale.

Those two weeks have kicked off a sizeable start to 2024 with over 100,000 bales offered, marking it the largest starting fortnight to a calendar year in four years.

The market struggled to sustain the positive momentum observed in the opening sale; over the course of three selling days this week the AWEX-EMI registered a 17-cent decline, closing at 1196 cents.

The most significant drop in prices occurred on the opening day when there was a 16-cent reduction in the EMI, the largest daily fall in five months.

The Merino Fleece sector weighed heavily on the outcome with the Micron Price Guides showing a decrease of as much as 50 cents.

Finer microns bore the brunt of the downturn while broader types generally saw reductions in the range of 10 to 20 cents.

Despite the EMI showing no movement on Wednesday, a more positive atmosphere prevailed, marked by modest increases in Melbourne and Fremantle.

The Melbourne-only sale on Thursday noted only minor fluctuations and all Micron Price Guides closed within five cents of the previous day's values.

Throughout the week there was a noticeable emphasis on better-specified wool, resulting in reduced demand for less-favourable types including those with high mid-break types.

Merino Skirtings reported mixed results with some

National Offering Centre North South West Total

Week 29 29 29

Days Offering 16, 17, 18 Jan. 13,704 16, 17, 18 Jan. 26,214 16, 17, 18 Jan. 9,987 49,905

Future Offerings Week

30

23, 24 Jan.

Source - AWEX

41,733

of the better types maintaining good support while the lower spec types eased back.

Crossbreds demonstrated resilience amid the weakness in the Merino sector, firming by 5 to 10 cents.

Merino Cardings made very little change, closing the sale on a firm basis.

After a fortnight of large volumes the upcoming week will see a dip to 41,733 bales rostered over two days.

Melbourne 1160M -11 16.5 2020n -72 17 1881n -50 17.5 1768 -47 18 1638 -30 18.5 1541 -17 19 1458 -13 19.5 1397 -18 20 1355 -4 21 1324 -8 22 1307 -9 23 24 25 729n 26 542 -7 28 357 +10 30 330 +5 32 297 +12 MC 725 +3 Ind.

In The Paddock Farmers find ideal New Year’s resolution for Government THE National Farmers’ Federation is calling on the Federal Government to start 2024 off strong and get cracking on a review report into community engagement on renewables projects.

Energy Infrastructure Commissioner Andrew Dyer was charged with putting a lens over community engagement practices for renewable energy infrastructure projects, and in December, he handed his findings to the Federal Government.

NFF President David Jochinke said the review was a step in the right direction and presents a real opportunity for the Government to dispel the uncertainty hanging over the heads of farmers.

“Farmers are often the last to find out about these projects to be rolled out across their land.

“This isn’t a NIMBY situation.

“Farmers support the transition to renewable energy, but they don’t want to see these projects being prioritised over growing food and fibre.

“Often there are far better solutions, like

taking projects along fencelines or in unproductive paddocks but the energy companies rarely stop to listen to these smart solutions.”

Farmer case study There’s 1.5 kilometres of overhead transmission lines proposed across Victorian farmer K atherine Myers’ farm.

“The issue of transmission is huge.

“The Federal Government is planning 10,000 kms of new transmission lines in Australia over the next 10 to 20 years – our farm is just 1.5kms,” Katherine said.

“That’s thousands of additional farmers or landholders out there who are going to be affected by this.

“It goes right from Northern Queensland to the southern tips of Tasmania.”

There are really strict regulations on farming around high voltage electricity and

for Katherine, the overhead transmission lines will prevent her family from growing potatoes on that land.

Katherine believes a safer, more efficient and sustainable solution to the proposed transmission lines is to install them underground to build a grid “for the next 100 years, not for the past century”.

“It’s marginally more expensive upfront, but it is enormously more efficient.

“The minute you put electricity into a high voltage above ground option, you lose approximately 30% of that generated power.”

Mr Jochinke said Katherine’s story was one he had heard from countless farmers across Australia, which is why finding a better way for energy projects was a key pillar in the NFF’s Keep Farmers Farming campaign.

“It’s the right thing to do to consult with

FOR SALE BY TENDER Wycheproof - Glenloth district 239 Ha / 592 Acres Ideal Cropping & Grazing Land

Above: Katherine Myer has 1.5 kilometres of overhead transmission lines proposed across her farm in Victoria. landholders in the early stages of these projects that directly impact their livelihoods and food and fibre production.

“The Government has the review outcomes in their hands so we urge them to get moving on it to make things fairer for farmers.

“We want to work with government on this important issue and the findings of this report are a good place to start that collaboration.

“Our message to Canberra is simple.

“If you love Aussie grown, help us protect Aussie farms and keep farmers farming.”

To be offered as 2 separate lots.

Lot 1: “Coles”, 397 acres (160.90 HA) • 2 paddocks with soil types of rising red loams and Avoca River flats • Presently canola stubble having been farmed with suitable rotation, • 342 acres arable plus 3 areas under covenant of established timbers (fenced) • Wimmera Mallee pipeline connected • Fronting Charlton-Swan Hill Road, Wycheproof Lot 2: “Fitz’s”, 195 acres (79.20 HA) • 1 paddock presently canola stubble • Ideal red loam soil types • Fronting Charlton-Swan Hill Road approx 3km south of Lot 1 The above well managed properties offer a productive and affordable opportunity of expansion to current farming enterprises.

Tenders close 12 noon Friday February 23rd 2024.

Tender forms available from the selling agent.

Elders Wycheproof 03 5493 6400 Jim Coffey 0419 830 682 Sam Crow 0455 506 622

Timely resource for sheep producers AS Victoria’s grain harvest draws to a close in many parts of the state, Agriculture Victoria has updated a resource for farmers intending to graze crop stubble.

Agriculture Victoria Senior Veterinar y Officer, Paul Beltz said the Agriculture Victoria webpage, Sheep nutritional requirements when grazing stubble, includes timely tips for managing variable feed quality to maintain the health of flocks.

“Stubble can be an effective source of nutrition for sheep in

summer and autumn.

“However, as the feed quality varies significantly, sheep supplements are often required.

“An important thing to consider when grazing stubble is the energy and protein content of the diet.

“The value of feed in stubble comes from the residual grain and quantity of green plant material.

LISTINGS WANTED Residential, Rural, Commercial & Leasing See your local

Nutrien Harcourts Real Estate team Sharlene Bertalli: 0447 952 320 Damian Drum: 0428 952 284 13-19 Napier Street, St. Arnaud

“This may include shot grain and summer weeds,’ he said.

Dr Beltz said the webpage explains the variability found in the feed value of different types of stubble and how to measure it on your farm.

“The best time to start grazing stubble is immediately after harvest as the quality declines with time.

‘Different licks and supplements will be required to maintain the health of sheep; the updated resource explains these in detail”, Dr Beltz said.

“When grazing sheep on stubble, it’s important to be aware of potential health issues including grain poisoning, nitrate poisoning, lupinosis, thiamine deficiency, water belly and worms.

For more information, visit the Agriculture Victoria webpage: Sheep nutritional requirements when grazing stubble.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024 - Page 13

St. Arnaud Secondary College Presentation Night 2023 PRESENTATION Night number 103 was held on 13th December by St. Arnaud Secondary College as students, staff and families celebrated at the Town Hall.

- Contributed The evening began with School Council President’s address from Bill Anderson who spoke of the new building program and the continuing College improvement.

He thanked all of the School Councillors for their dedication to the College and encouraged new parents to join council in 2024.

Bill then presented the College Council award to Yr 12 student Amy Greenaway for her continued ‘have a go’ attitude and achieving a third in the state Athletics finals in Shot Put.

Academic awards Primar y School Principal Melissa Mitchell presented the academic award winners for each year level and the dux of each year level was announced.

Year 7 Isabella Bigmore, Yr 8 Addison Wright, Yr 9 Ada Buenaventura, Yr 10 Zoe Bryce and Yr 11 Demi Leach.

Academic Scholarship awards A series of academic Scholarship awards were presented by College Council Vice President Ms Lynne Bodey, Bruce Dimelow Scholarship - John

Above: Dux Yr 7, Isabella Bigmore.

Saludes, Year 10 George and Alice Edwards Memorial Scholarship Benjamin Greenaway, Year 11 Albert Gifford Memorial Scholarship Adella Burr, Parents Club – Boy - Oscar Reyne, and Parents Club – Girl - Amber Morrison.

Achievements of the Year Principal Tony Hand spoke of the achievements of the year and the hive of activity, outside of the building work.

He also presented two College recognition awards, first to Deb Feeny for her ser vices to the Victorian State School Spectacular and then to Howard Amos for his 17 years of volunteer service in looking after our gardens and grounds which brings his total years of service to the College of 47 years.

Above: Year 12 class of 2023 with their certificates and awards. (left to right) Amy Greenaway, Morgan Shields, Charli Young, Sam Male, Phoebe Hendy, Trey Zander (kneeling), Lachlan Gifford, Maya Feeny, Troy Anderson, Rogan Hando, Izzy Hand, Keegan Amos and Jesse Amos.

Values and Citizenship awards

Anderson followed by the sports Coordinators Award to Phoebe Hendy and Holmes was announced as the overall winner of the House Sporting and Academic competition.

The College band then performed “Havana” by Camill Cabello.

to Trey Zander and the Martha Haylett Award for Courage also to Trey Zander and the Work Place of The Year to the St. Arnaud Child Precinct presented to Wayne Griffith.

Mrs McCormick presented Amy Greenaway with the School Sport Victoria Medal.

Long Tan awards

Exiting College Captains speak

Chief Petty Officer Colin Frampton then presented the Long Tan awards to – Yr 10 Ben Greenaway and Yr 12 Izzy Hand.

Sports awards were then presented by Bill

Sue Clay presented the next five awards – Kwong L ee Dow Scholars to Zoe Bryce, VFF Hayward Scholarship to Troy Anderson, Nutrien Agriculture Award to Jesse Amos, Careers Training Scholarship

College Captains Rogan Hando and Izzy Hand then both gave heartfelt speeches and presented The College Captain’s Award to Lachlan Gifford.

They also presented the College with a framed Year 12 jumper to hopefully help decorate the new building and start a new tradition for Year 12 students.

Rogan and Izzy were then presented with a framed School Captain pocket.

The Values and Citizenship awards were presented by Cr Karen Hyslop, Yr 7 – Forbes Kirk, Yr 8 – Mara Reynolds, Yr 9 – Chloe Needs, Yr 10 – Sophie O’Donnell, Yr 11 – Tyson Funston, Yr 12 – Izzy Hand.

The College Band then performed “Seven Nation Army” by the White Stripes.

Last Year’s VCE Dux, Berrie Walsh and VCAL Dux, Jesse Wandel then spoke of their respective journeys over the last twelve months.

Both stories were very interesting and very different – and very well presented.

The 2024 College Captains - Tyson Funston and Owen Lowe and Vice Captains – Ben Greenaway and

Above: Dux Yr 8, Addison Wright.

Above: Dux Yr 9, Ada Beunaventura.

Dux Yr 10 – Zoe Bryce.

Above: Dux Yr 11 – Demi Leach.

New building Lastly Mr Hand took everyone on a virtual tour of the inside of the new building via a video.

The building should be ready to move into during February this year.

Sports awards

Scholarship awards

Above: House captains: (left to right) Tyson Funston and Gypsy Donald (both Holmes), George Gorrie and Leila Patton (both Moorshead), Sophie O’Donnell and Zoe Bryce (both Wilmott).

Page 14 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024.

Scarlett Hand were then presented and then Rogan and Izzy handed over the proceedings to Tyson and Owen.

Year 12 students awards Next the Year 12 students were presented with their awards and certificates.

Mr Hand outlined that the students had achieved the highest average ATAR in more than 10 years, with two students gaining the second and third highest ATARS in more than 10 years.

All VCE students undertaking scored assessment had achieved high enough to gain their first preference at university

and of the five Vocational Major students, 2 were continuing apprenticeships, one taking a GAP year from the Defence forces and one enrolled in community services course.

He then announced Trey Zander as the NC LLEN Vocational Major Award winner and Jesse Amos as the VCE Dux of the College with an ATAR of 89.

House Captains for 2024 were announced: Holmes - Tyson Funston and Gypsy Donald, Moorshead – George Gorrie and Leila Patton, Willmott – Zoe Bryce and Sophie O’Donnell.

With all that, the night was drawn to a close.

Above: (left to right) College VCE Dux Jesse Amos and Vocational Major Dux Trey Zander.

Above: College Band.

St. Arnaud 100 Years Ago: 1st – 24th January 1924 Navarre Races

Above: Amy Greenaway, School Council Award.

Above: Yr 9 Values and Citizenship – Chloe Needs.

Above: Yr 10 Long Tan – Ben Greenaway.

Above: FF Hayward Scholarship – Troy Anderson.

Above: Yr 8 Values and Citizenship – Mara Reynolds.

Above: Year 11 Values and Citizenship A w a r d – Ty s o n Funston.

New Club House Opened

Above: Yr 10 Mallee Excellence Award and Values and citizenship award – Sophie O’Donnell.

Above: College Captains Award – Lachlan Gifford.

Above: Yr 7 Values and Citizenship – Forbes Kirk.

Above: Year 12 Caltex All-Rounder and Values and Citizenship award and Long Tan Award – Izzy Hand.

Trey Zander the recipient of the Martha Haylett’s Award for Courage.

On New Years Day 4,000 people attended the Navarre Turf Club races, with £273 taken at the gate in excess of £27 of the previous year.

A special train came from Ararat, but patrons had to travel in ordinary trucks with temporar y canvas covers.

President - George Simpson age 77 [a member for the past 55 years], Secretary - Joe Darlington, Judge Percy Edwards.

Maiden Plate 10 entries, Novelty Pony Race 4 entries, Navarre Cup [silver cup valued at £10/10/- and 50 sovs for winner], 6 entries won by ‘Valtar’ age 5 years, owner - R K L angley, rider Fountain, time 1 min 49 sec.

Trot 6 entries, Flying Handicap 5 entries, and Welter Handicap 6 entries.

Above: Sports Coordinator’s Award – Phoebe Hendy.

The St Arnaud and District Tennis Club’s new pavilion next to the tennis courts at King George’s Park was officially opened on 16th January.

President H J Mewkill, Secretaries J Scarff and F Mulchay and Treasurer W G Williams were among those who made speeches.

Mrs Mewkill opened the main door with a silver key presented by Mr H J Walters.

The W B building has three compartments, each 20 ft x 12 ft with 11 ft walls and ceilings lined with fibro-cement.

One is for the ladies and one for the gents and the middle one for afternoon tea and use as an office.

There is a shower in the gent’s compartment but not in the ladies, plus a 7 ft wide front verandah.

Local carpenter J P Scarff erected the building at a cost of £400.

Hospital Matron Resigns

Above: School Council Award – Special recognition of Service – to Howard Amos for 13 years of voluntary service to the College – for a total of 47 years service!

Above: Workplace of the Year – Wayne Griffith accepting on behalf of the St. Arnaud Early Childhood Centre with Sue Clay NC LLEN.

Above Debra Feeny with her award for her services to the Victorian State School Spectacular.

Matron Margaret Lang has resigned due to ill health; Sister Wall has been appointed acting Matron and Nurse Smale will take Sister Wall’s position.

As recognition of the efficient way Matron Lang had carried out her duties she was given £10/10/bonus.

She started 5-1-1922, as matron with a salary at first of £130 per

annum, which was later raised to £156 per annum.

Manager Resigns A resident for the past 33 years, Mr George Templeman, manager of James Malcolm & Co’s flourmill for 27 years has resigned and is moving to Melbourne.

The new manager will be Mr W S G Wolff from Melbourne.

Accidents Mr D Young, cab proprietor of Bewley St had to destroy his horse when it was kicked by another horse and suffered a broken bone below the knee.

On New Years Day when going to the Navarre races a car driven by T Lambert with four passengers hit a tree.

The driver received cuts to his arms needing stitches, Mr Beatty’s son suffered a severely injured nose and the other passengers escaped injury.

The car, which was badly damaged, was owned by Mr Beatty.

Births On 8th January at Nurse Keegan’s Private Hospital, Napier St South, Mr and Mrs F McFarlane, a son Donald Roche.

On 10th January at the same hospital, Mr and Mrs F Moss a daughter Dorothy May.

Death Mr Nicholas Martin died age 51 at the hospital on 15th January, from pneumonia, leaving a widow, Laura nee Kell and 3 children.

He came to St. Arnaud age 18 years and worked for Robert and Reginald Reade, coach and waggon builders for 33 years.

Nicholas was well known as a first class coach trimmer, and a long time playing member of Hellings Model Band and later the St. Arnaud Brass Band.

He was buried at the St. Arnaud cemetery in the same grave as his son Elton who died 23-12-1913 age 10 years.

Cricket Edwards Team 158 beat Crone’s Team 78, with the most runs for Edwards, by W C Williams 57 and J Hogan 35 and for Crone, H J Rowe 28 and T Howse 8.

Stuart Mill 261 beat Redbank 127 with the most runs for Stuart Mill by H Romano 103 and R Douglas 44 and

- by Heather Pritchard for Redbank W Stanley 55 and A Burge 43.

Reward £5 for information leading to conviction of person or persons who stole 4 bags wheat out of my paddock on Thursday night, 3rd January, - Fred Walker of Avon Plains, [farmers beware]

Wanted Known Miss Beyer of Burke St. is prepared to make up ladies own material into costumes or skirts.

She has had charge of the ladies tailoring department of a leading Ararat firm for some time.

Madame Bruce Wilkins will commence classes in singing and pianoforte in February.

Mr J Gomer, a new plumber in town is located off Dundas St.

Sales 5th January – Bryan Shanahan, 90 acres at Moolerr, fenced and fallowed on shares, close to Beazleys Bridge Road, adjoining Mrs William Fithall and Alexander Gunn, about 5½ miles from St. Arnaud – sold to Alf Hosken of Beazley’s Bridge at £12 per acre.

5th January – Mrs Greenough who has left St. Arnaud, an E B and W B house of 5 rooms in Queen’s Ave, passed in at £300 later sold to Miss Grigg of Napier St, at an undisclosed price.

5th January - Hugh McNeill, superior W B residence on Inglewood Road, 7 rooms, plus vestibule, bathroom, wash house, verandah all sides, stables, outbuildings, good garden, splendid water supply with 14 acres, part of which has been surveyed into 8 separate building allotments [sale withdrawn due to absence of vendor].

The clearing sale to be held on 9th January was also cancelled.

12th January – S James who is leaving St. Arnaud, 5 room E B and W B house in North Western Road, very cool house, verandah front and back, sleepout, 2 tanks, good garden, plus ½ acre on Miners Right.

12th January – S Stapleton who has left St Arnuad, house in Dundas St, at present tenanted to Mr T B Ritchie of High School Staff.

Sheep sales – Navarre 2,000, St. Arnaud 1,440 sheep and 20 cattle.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024 - Page 15

NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 181(5)(B) LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1989 TAKE NOTICE the Loddon Shire Council of 41 High Street, Wedderburn, VIC 3518, in accordance with Section 181 of the Local Government Act 1989, intends on or after 21 February 2024 to sell or transfer to itself ALL THAT piece of land being Crown Allotment 3 Section 2 Parish of Borung being more particularly described in Certificate of Title Volume 10158 Folio 878 being the land situate at Old Boort Road, Wedderburn VIC 3518. The registered owner, being Bruce Allan Davey, having failed for a period of more than three years to have paid the rates and charges in respect of same, having further failed to pay such rates and charges pursuant to an Order of the Magistrates' Court of Victoria at Broadmeadows on 26 September 2022 requiring payment of such rates and charges.

Executive Collections Legal Services Level 40, 140 William Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000 Ph +61 3 8318 4908 Ref 396205

FOR SALE

Wednesday, 14th February

AT YOUR SERVICE

h

Don’t Miss Out! your flowers h Order early NOW for h Valentine’s Day at St. Arnaud

Allsorts h Ph: 5495 1161 89-93 Napier Street, St. Arnaud

Get it through our

WANTed ads!

(03) 5495 1055

Top of the Town Beauty Salon For all your Hair and Beauty NEEDS

Ph: 5495 1306

Self Storage • 7 DAYS ACCESS • BUSINESS STOCK • LONG OR SHORT TERM STORAGE AVAILABLE

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0409 337 276, Luke:

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~ OPEN ~ Monday to Friday Colours, Perms, Unisex Cuts, Waxing, Teeth Whitening, Brow Wax & Tinting, Tanning etc..

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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

RELOCATED Nicola Kirk Physiotherapist Over 15 years experience Open Mon to Fri 63 Napier Street, ST. ARNAUD

0400 451 432 or 5495 1108

EMPLOYMENT

THANKYOU A note of thanks for the many well wishes and good luck messages received recently.

Thanks to all.

Nita Perry.

Job Opportunities Charlton • Enrolled Nurse Donald • Junior Food and Domestic Service Assistant • Enrolled Nurse St Arnaud • Project Officer - Asset Audit • Associate Nurse Unit Manager • Enrolled Nurse • Nurse Unit Manager Wycheproof • Enrolled Nurse Further information available at: https://ewhs.org.au/careers

Page 16 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024.

DEATH AITKEN (Willmott) - Gillian Susanne passed away peacefully in St Arnaud on Dec. 24th 2023, aged 72 yrs. Dearly loved wife of Denis and much loved Mum of Tracey Katona and Greg, mother-in-law of John and Nadia. Adored Nana of Jack, Cooper, Taylah; Chloe and Harper.

Rest in Peace Gilly BOWEN (Cameron) - Barbara Joy passed away peacefully on Jan 15th 2024, aged 80 years. Dearly loved wife of Rupert and loving mother of Ian and Mandy; James and Michelle; Suzanne and Mark; Matthew. Treasured Nan to Tamara, Meg. Liam; Tristan and Nick.

Loved Always and In Our Hearts Forever BURGESS (Campbell) - Jeanette Rosalie formally of St. Arnaud, passed away peacefully on Jan 12th 2024, aged 82 years. Loved wife of Robert (dec) and much loved mother of Kerry and Brendan; Wayne and Kim; Stephen and Tracey; Mark and Michelle; Lisa and Allan. Adored Nana to Katie, Sammy, Andrew, Sarah, Tristan, Nick, Lockie, Lucy, Carlie, Harry, and Sienna.

Re-united with Dad. Always in Our Hearts.

COATES - Bruce Tasman of St Arnaud passed away peacefully on Jan. 14th 2024, aged 93 yrs.

Loving husband of Peg. Loved father and fatherin-law of Colin and Robyn; Neil and Jan; Helen and Greg Polkinghorne; Di and Eddy Ostarcevic. Treasured Pop of Leonie, Brett, Ian; Dale, Brad, Shaun; Claire, Angus and Great Pop of Georgie, James; Josh, Eloise, Lachie; Alfie, Louis, Elma; Chad, Vivian; Archie, Stella, Ollie; and Billy.

Loved son of the late Alfred and Lucy Coates and brother of Mary Sanderson and Gerald (dec).

REST PEACEFULLY DAD COATES - Bruce Tasman Married 72 years.

Loving memories to hold in my heart.

- Your loving wife Peg. COATES - Bruce Tasman Thanks for everything Dad, memories are ours to keep.

- Love Neil and Jan. Dad, Bruce, Pop. The memories we have shared will always be with us.

Helen and Greg; Dale, Jennae, Chad and Vivian; Bradley; Shaun, Jessica, Archie, Stella and Ollie.

HOBBS - Lindsay Gordon (Snow) 11.11.1930 - 7.1.2024 Of Charlton. Loved Husband of Marj (Dec). Loved father of Kelvin (Dec), Ian, Rod, Brendan, Leslie (Dec and Peter infant) Sharon. Father-in-law to Debbie, Kerrie, Joan, Maree, Cathie, Charlie and friend of Pete.

Proud Pa Pa of 13 and Grandchildren their partners, and 14 great grandchildren.

A long life well lived, Rest In Peace McMANUS - Christopher Peter 23-10-63 - 13-12-23 Aged 60. Special Man, very man, caring loving. Chris will be missed. Life won’t be the same without him, we will always love you forever and a day.

R.I.P. - Jacinta, Jess and friends.

PATERSON - Allison 29/6/1934 -2/1/2024 Passed away after a long battle.

Dearly loved wife and adored wife of Joe. Mother of Louise and Kerry and their families Allison was privately interred in accordance with her wishes Grateful thanks to Dr Webb and all the nurses and staff who lovingly cared for Allison.

PROCTOR - Leon “John” of Kooreh passed away peacefully on Jan 11th 2024 aged 89 yrs.

Dearly loved husband of Marg and loving father and father-in-law of Jenny and Dale Watts, Brenda, Alison and Pat O’Reilly, Paul and Ingrid, Scott and Ciara. Proud Grandpa to Jason (dec), Phillip and Caitlin, Tori and James, Lauren; Laura and Oli, Sean and Abbey, Katie; Emily, James, Charlotte; Fionn, Liam, Rohan, Aidan and Old Pa to Blair, Pippa and Varian.

A Man of the Land.

PROCTOR - Leon “John” Another family leader and another Kooreh and district historical encyclopaedia is no longer here for us to share information. No more back veranda chats, we will miss you.

Helen, Peter, Stacey, Brayden, Sherridyn and families.

DEATH

FUNERAL

SCHROEDER - Fritz-Jürgen Johannes 28-4-1941 3-1-2024 of St Arnaud. Ex husband of Judith and husband of Donna. Precious father of Kristen, Nathan and stepfather to Kimberley. Father-inlaw of Andrew and Laura, and grandfather to Brody, Harrison and Nyah.

Always in our hearts.

Rest Peacefully Dad, you found home.

AITKEN (Willmott) A celebration of Gilly’s life was held at the St Arnaud Sporting Club on FRIDAY (Jan. 12th 2024) commencing at 12.30pm.

A Private Cremation has been held.

Condolences at lifelived.com.au KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD

BEREAVEMENT THANK YOU THANK YOU Thank you to the family and friends that helped celebrate the life of our dear mum. (Elvie Perry).

This respect and love has been shown in many cards, food, flowers, phone calls and attendance to the Uniting Church on 18/12/2023.

Many thanks to Goodwin Village in Donald for 5 months of care, and to Respect Coates St. Arnaud for mum’s last 4 weeks.

Appreciation and thanks to Kell Funerals team for the complete organisation of mum’s farewell day.

Also many thanks and compliments to the St. Arnaud Country Club for the beautiful luncheon and refreshments following the Church service.

Mum would have been very humbled with the entire day.

Michelle Kirk and Craig Perry.

IN MEMORIAM BRIGGS - Anthony James June 1959 - Jan 2022 Will always be remembered for his ability to enrich the lives of all who came into contact and the lasting memories.

Sadly missed.

Rubber Stamps North Central News (03) 5495 1055

NFDA

EST: 1860

5495 1043

BOWEN (Cameron) A service to celebrate the life of Mrs Barbara Bowen will be held today at the Kell Funerals Chapel (cnr Napier and Mill Sts) St Arnaud on WEDNESDAY Jan 24th at 10.30am. The cortege will then leave for the St Arnaud Lawn Cemetery.

KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA

EST: 1860

5495 1043

BURGESS (Campbell) A service to celebrate the life of Mrs. Jeanette Burgess was held at the Kell Funerals Chapel (cnr Napier and Mill Sts) St Arnaud on THURSDAY Jan 18th at 1pm. The cortege then left for the St. Arnaud Cemetery for a private burial.

No flowers please – for those who would like to make a donation to Alzheimers research please do so via https: //alzheimers.com.au/ Condolences at lifelived.com.au KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA

EST: 1860

5495 1043 COATES A celebration for Mr. Bruce Coates was held at the Uniting Church St Arnaud on Jan. 22nd 2024 at 1.30pm.

A private burial has been held.

Condolences at lifelived.com.au KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA

EST: 1860

5495 1043

KELL FUNERALS

Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme hits over 100 million deposits VICTORIANS in every corner of the state have thrown their support behind the State Government’s Container Deposit Scheme, returning more than 100 million containers, and pocketing over $10 million in refunds in just two months.

Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos marked the milestone at the new Return-It depot at South Melbourne – one of around 400 convenient refund points across the state.

Mr Dimopoulos said it was remarkable to see so many Victorians get involved in recycling, providing 100 million containers and counting for re-use in new products instead of going to landfill or ending up in the environment and harming our wildlife.

“The CDS is a great initiative to get people recycling – we’re rewarding Victorians who

FUNERAL HOBBS A funeral was held on Thursday 18th January 2024 1.30 pm at the Charlton Uniting Church, followed by a burial at the Charlton Cemetery.

PROCTOR A celebration of John’s life will be held at the St Arnaud Country Club on Feb 9th at 1.30pm.

A private cremation has been held.

Condolences at lifelived.com.au KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD NFDA

do the right thing, reducing litter and making sure recyclable product don't end up in landfill.”

The CDS is breaking records every week, with a staggering 15.8 million containers collected in the week before Christmas and a record 17.1 million containers returned last week. The biggest day to date was Friday 5 January with 3.18 million containers returned.

The CDS is processing an average of around 10 million cans, cartons and bottles across the state every week, with Victorians returning an average of 129 containers per transaction.

Regional Victorians continue to step up to the challenge in im-

CHURCH NOTICES DISTRICT CATHOLIC CHURCHES East Wimmera Parish BIRCHIP

Sunday January 28th 10.30am Live Stream in BOORT

Sunday January 28th 10.30am Live Stream in BANYENA No Mass CHARLTON

EST: 1860

5495 1043

Sunday January 28th 10.30pm

SCHROEDER The funeral for the late Mr. Fritz-Jürgen Schroeder was held at the Uniting Church Stuart Mill on FRIDAY (Jan. 19th) at 11am.

The cortege then left for the Stuart Mill Cemetery.

Condolences at lifelived.com.au KELL FUNERALS ST ARNAUD

Live Stream out to churches without Mass DONALD

NFDA

EST: 1860

5495 1043

Sunday January 28th 10.30am Live Stream in ST. ARNAUD

Sunday January 28th 8.30am Mass WYCHEPROOF

Saturday January 27th 7.00pm Mass Parish Coordinator: Noeline Hogan 0476 617 976

Est 1860

PRE PAID FUNERALS AVAILABLE 24 HOURS

BIRTH

Ph: 5495 1043

136 Napier Street St. Arnaud

NAFD Member

Kate and Russell Marland

Birthday wishes to:

welcome their first child

January 27th Mark Swanton Diane Wright January 29th Hayley Swanton January 30th Kelly Petrie George Greenaway

born 21st December 2023

January 24th Simon Elliott January 25th Sally Ann McIntyre Ally Wright January 26th Casey Bertalli

CLARA JOY MARLAND

Granddaughter for Sharyn and Kevin Haynes & Amanda and Peter Marland

pressive numbers, with Mildura leading the state in container returns having returned over 4.1 million containers.

Shepparton rivals this turnout with more than 2.6 million containers collected, followed by Kangaroo Flat (more than 2.1 million) and Ballarat South (2 million).

Melton has been Melbourne's best-performing refund point, having returned an astounding 3.9 million cans, glass and PET plastics, followed by the Hallam depot with more than 2.6 million.

Of all the containers returned since the scheme commenced, aluminium cans have been the most popular making up 53 percent of returns, followed by PET (26 percent), glass (18 percent).

Container returns continue to increase and Victoria’s network of refund points will continue to grow to meet demand, making the scheme the most convenient and accessible in the country.

Victorians can choose to pocket the refund or donate their containers to one of the 1600 participating charities, sports, community, environmental or educational groups.

Returned drink con-

CHURCH NOTICES

tainers can be transformed into all kinds of new things, including material for roads, furniture, construction, textiles and more – creating new economic op-

This Saturday, January 27 9AM - 1PM

SUDOKU Sudoku is an 81 square number grid with nine blocks each containing nine cells. To solve the puzzle, all the blank cells must be filled in using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and in the nine 3x3 blocks. You can successfully solve the puzzle just by using logic and the process of elimination.

ST. ARNAUD CHURCH OF CHRIST Cnr. Queens Ave & Alma St. Hearing good news of Jesus Sun 28th January 9.45 a.m. Prayer Time 10.30 a.m.: Worship & Communion Speaker: Andrew George All welcome Enquiries: Brian Eccles Ph: 5495 2267

ANGLICAN PARISH OF ST. ARNAUD Christ Church Old Cathedral Friday 26th January 9am 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

ST. ARNAUD UNITING CHURCH Sunday 28th January ST. ARNAUD No Service in St. Arnaud combined with STUART MILL 10.00am G. Postlethwaite Followed by morning tea.

PARISH OFFICE Chris & Rob Batters Pastorial Co-ordinators Enquiries 5495 6223

portunities and will support more than 600 jobs across Victoria.

To find your nearest refund point and for more information, visit cdsvic.org.au.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL:

Proudly sponsored by:-

For a prompt & professional service with a smile All Major Repairs & Brands of Tyres Car/Truck/4WD Wheel Balancing Modern Laser Wheel Alignments All Battery Sizes

Phone: 0400 377 278 20 Melbourne Road, St. Arnaud Phone office 03 5495 2734 See Solution page 18

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024 - Page 17

At a reunion the Phillips Family visits places of forefathers ALTHOUGH the Phillips family settled in Swanwater West 153 years ago and held the first reunion over 30 years ago, the huge family were in the district again for the second reunion last December to see first hand the land of their forefathers.

In 1989 they had placed a Cairn commemorating their arrival into Australia and Nicholls Plains as well as a time capsule.

The time capsule was retrieved at this second reunion of the Phillips family in December where the family gathered for a meet and greet at the Shire Café.

An online ancestry tree was available and printed copies as well and ever yone was encouraged to bring a USB stick for easy transfer of the information.

After a delicious lunch the family visited the allotments of James Phillips (1870) in Swanwater West and Gooroc which had been a meeting place of the early Phillips settlers.

As well, the group visited the allotment of George Phillips (1872) at Nicholls Plains, James Phillips (1875) a nephew, in Nicholls Plains as well as the

land purchased by Charles Phillips at Nicholls Plains in 1872.

Background The history of this family started with James Phillips arrival in 1870 and his brother Charles followed and selected land at Nicholls Plains.

When James realised that that the land that he had selected at Swanwater West was unsuitable for farming, he moved all his family to Leongatha, around 1880, then to Wonthaggi.

However, brother, Charles (who married Grace Willoughby) continued farming on the original block of land up until 2006 when the original property was sold.

Another interesting fact for this family is that James daughter Mary Phillips married Robert Scott Laver in 1877, also a farmer at Swanwater.

Their youngest son, Roy, was the father of

Rod Laver (Australian tennis legend) and they moved to Queensland in 1900.

Above: Charles and Grace (Willoughby) Phillips and family. Their eldest son Alfred Phillips (right) continued farming at Nicholls Plains.

Below: Photo of original homestead where the cairn and plaque now stand.

A F

Qld 4217 1 800 652 284

E

C C Right: Cairn and plaque placed in 1989

Below: Many of the descendants of Charles and Grace Phillips gathered at The Shire Cafe for a reunion in December 2023.

Page 18 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024.

Ted Whillier Matt Trickey

QUOTE OF THE WEEK Equality is treating everyone the same. But equity is taking differences into account, so everyone has a chance to succeed.

- Jodi Picoult

SUDOKU SOLUTION 4 9 8 3 6 5 2 1 7 3 5 2 8 1 7 4 6 9 1 7 6 2 4 9 5 8 3 2 1 9 6 5 3 8 7 4 8 3 4 1 7 2 6 9 5 7 6 5 4 9 8 3 2 1 9 4 7 5 2 6 1 3 8 5 2 3 9 8 1 7 4 6 6 8 1 7 3 4 9 5 2 Solution No. 10120 O U C A B L E C A R S D E S E R T I O O D E A T O N E S U S E D A T I V E H A G S A C E R E A L L E E B R A T E R R A N D V A L L O T S G E E S E K E R A S E R WR E N E R R P L E A S E E R A T S O R D E R I N G N P E P S I N B L G U E A D M I R E R E P R I S A L S S E

Cybersecurity upgrades being made in schools Make WISH come VICTORIAN schools will have a major cybersecurity upgrade, including the introduction of new artificial intelligence technology designed to keep students and staff, and their data, safe.

Minister for Education Ben Carroll has announced the changes, which will monitor school networks and flag suspicious activity by hackers and criminals – while also standard-

RUBBER STAMPS Made to order North Central News 18 Napier Street St. Arnaud

Ph: 5495 1055

ising cybersecurity services across schools as well as doubling internet speeds.

Mr Carroll said that schools rely on a safe, secure and efficient IT system for everything from administration to teaching, so it’s vital it delivers for staff and students.

“This major upgrade will make sure this vital school infrastructure is fit for the future – keeping students and staff safe.

The first half of 2023 saw around 15 schools

take part in a pilot of the program using three new artificial intelligence-based programs that monitor activity within school networks looking for t h i n g s l i ke r a n somware and hacking.

The final decision on which of the programs from the successful pilot will be implemented is expected early this year, with the new solution working alongside existing technology.

Those existing technologies have identified and stopped more than 35,700 attempts to access school systems since

2021 and the new solution will ensure systems are fit for purpose.

The upgrades are included in the Securing Connected L earners program, which is shaping technology and digital ser vices across Victoria’s more than 1500 government schools.

The upgrade will: • Centralise access to Microsof t and Google collaboration programs, ensuring their use meets safety and security requirements.

•Move schools onto centrally managed services for internet,

systems access and security monitoring.

•Support schools to improve their own cyber security governance.

• Provide schools with a catalogue of assessed education software to minimize the use of unsafe technologies.

• Double internet speed from 1 Mbps to 2Mbps per student in Primary Schools and increase it five-fold to 5 Mbps per student in Secondary Schools.

• Redesign school internet access to use cloud-based security controls making them safer and more user friendly.

true at St. Arnaud Community Cinema THE story of Wish focuses on a 17-year-old girl named Asha in the Kingdom of Rosas.

In this lovely music a l A s h a m a ke s a passionate plea to the starts in a moment of need which leads her to meet with Star.

A true living, magic star fallen from the sky, and something that also attracts the attention of Rosas evil ruler King Magnifico.

Young Asha’s wish is so powerful and with the cosmic force and boundless energy of Star, together they embark on their mis-

Contributed sion to save the Kingdom of Rosas.

This all new musical comedy welcomes audiences to this wondrous world of a magic star.

Starring Ariana De Bose, Chris Pine, Alan Tudyk, Evan Peters whose voice performances as the characters are superb.

Screening dates are Thursday 25th January at 2pm and Sunday 28th January at 2pm.

Your local option for commercial & residential solar installations Phone: 5495 1449 107 NAPIER STREET, ST. ARNAUD

SLUDGEBUSTERS Septic Tank & Grease Trap Cleaning Now servicing the North Central Area

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18 Napier Street, St. Arnaud.

18 Napier St., St. Arnaud.

Phone: (03) 5495 1055

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024 - Page 19

141 Year Rain Chart - St. Arnaud District The following figures are in points (2012 to 2023 have been converted to mm)

Year Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec.Year

Year Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Year

1882 -

0

23

20 286

268

99

328

198

98

332

159

76 1887

1958 - 298

28

23

43

368

29

322

399

136

292

133

1883 -

0

156

106

89

368

331

305

371

211

197

177 142 2453

1959 - 209

188

177 245

94

87

71

209

231

191

67 159 1928

1884 - 222

30

329 132

234

303

24

187

241

114

94 161 2071

1960 - 148

166

111 301

481

214

194

285

402

64

329 113 2808

1885 -

98 2169

0

178

142

51

52

228

251

149

276

60

43 138 1568

1961 -

6

58

102 269

60

212

197

127

63

149

97 210 1550

1886 - 365

112

19

33

69

62

192

367

132

171

179 219 1920

1962 - 208

48

68

22

342

268

184

316

226

176

57

82 1997

1887 - 37

102

8 203

151

298

237

262

140

207

608 214 2467

1963 - 343

6

160

35

226

288

270

298

275

197

45

32 2085

1888 - 59

33

60

283

116

184

215

95

56

55 106 1318

1964 -

4

31

11 330

113

272

455

207

336

531

123 180 2643

67

1889 - 247

43

0 502

374

380

67

316

179

173

165

33 2479

1965-

15

0

33

12

272

124

327

358

96

30

316

1890 - 50

105

257 355

270

394

338

250

189

200

239

58 2711

1966 - 39

179

239

51

92

98

218

180

245

246

86 260 1894

1891 - 60

0

227 193

110

236

175

131

72

284

175

96 1759

1967 -

37

13

22

74

177

231

207

103

37

11

1892 - 27

40

46 185

210

322

223

174

240

164

228 124 1988

1968 - 118

20

173 242

325

340

201

351

61

239

119 113 2302

1893 -

0

0

59 209

636

464

178

223

116

321

256

27 2489

1969 - 23

286

265

80

260

48

224

189

177

49

132 106 1839

1894 - 14

8

173 102

71

279

92

322

199

630

35 437 2362

1970 - 294

20

174 259

196

192

105

236

200

80

309

88 2153 71 2324

8

97 1789 87 1007

1895 - 87

0

138 240

40

107

148

405

118

124

37 151 1595

1971 - 51

103

146 365

219

203

238

215

202

233

278

1896 - 68

159

120 283

156

65

121

67

163

0

170

14 1395

1972 - 99

287

67 123

187

84

144

227

38

98

191

1 1596

1897 - 578

0

61

92

236

147

284

129

105

53

5 1746

1973 - 310

673

113 277

362

369

290

404

348

379

161

66 3752

438

13

59 3113

1898 -

56

0

126

6

81

113

449

200

145

182

109

51 109 1571

1974 - 450

258

1899 - 95

188

224

98

166

488

7

96

59

129

198

1975 - 121

4

21 1769

107 521

281

69

252

330

322

123

234

28

244

156

460 1038

111 120 2679

48

1900 - 45

0

156 151

230

231

21

354

156

56

77

81 1558

1976 - 91

26

50

26

46

115

71

119

119

110

243 144 1159

1901 - 67

36

82 116

22

347

126

137

304

241

76

91 1645

1977 - 25

71

119

99

248

252

76

120

85

104

136

201 139 2325

37 1373

1902 - 40

25

232

10

20

207

57

94

98

123

20 215 1141

1978 - 38

28

124 137

398

215

361

243

310

133

1903 - 14

57

118 328

200

301

435

120

418

322

455 144 2912

1979 - 217

169

33 122

247

105

118

346

476

247

85

9 2173

1904 - 279

140

36

142

240

328

183

109

178

99

1980 - 43

76 356

178

218

260

243

114

295

146

89 2018

208 108 2264

98

2 247

14 1846

1905 - 96

77

244

273

286

68

166

292

46

55 1852

1981 - 108

44

12

32

224

440

400

404

100

184

1906 -

4

63

120

21

469

333

261

203

196

192

311

31 2204

1982 - 112

32

168

60

108

116

48

64

48

48

20

1907 -

0

142

47 215

124

175

296

224

60

56

133 268 1740

1983 - 18

0

460 137

337

117

362

433

387

153

191 103 2709

824

1908 - 25

35

57

0

266

386

70

238

276

200

59

26 1638

1984 - 539

10

268 106

70

76

277

342

208

77

204

1909 - 53

55

153 169

423

383

229

578

93

88

59

55 2338

1985 - 14

0

77

137

154

103

486

67

211

161 388 1862

109

64

19 2196

1910 - 174

6

442

28

305

216

397

182

285

113

50 2307

1986 - 12

57

0 258

331

87

437

247

226

324

82 227 2324

1911 - 11

584

161

15

205

274

172

61

313

52

9 163 2020

1987 - 257

191

22

89

422

396

218

172

67

122

98 200 3052 182 169 2636

1912 -

5

107

99

37

26

235

307

145

411

44

143 301 1860

1988 - 176

87

123

31

563

303

247

143

476

136

1913 -

3

107

257 159

220

104

101

160

210

189

38

1989 - 210

36

225 294

411

378

225

244

163

266

63

47 2562

1914 - 47

8

62 189

81

60

76

42

4

0

801

1990 - 105

143

114

40

232

363

236

27

158

83

34 1617

62 1610

83 149

82

1915 - 75

33

4

80

128

429

260

303

444

149

31

4 1940

1991 - 368

0

52 146

0

627

170

270

269

17

88 217 2224

1916 - 82

78

0

69

74

364

241

339

373

201

164 139 2124

1992 - 98

12

100 128

416

153

121

425

410

471

419 476 3229

1917 - 140

194

15

36

243

163

387

325

388

296

131

81 2489

1993 - 390

23

33

0

111

114

311

241

428

241

181 247 2320

1918 - 52

128

159 251

380

258

132

188

52

91

41

48 1780

1994 - 76

165

26

10

160

294

145

73

48

73

45

5 1130

1919 -

203

87

193

113

127

105

228

79

30 206 1402

1995 - 108

96

12 327

198

566

483

68

60

378

0

88 2334

5

26

1920 - 46

0

54

41

239

216

225

423

315

111

180

56 1906

1996 - 203

67

255

84

101

419

319

333

415

118

23

44 2381

1921 - 175

49

250

53

295

201

194

219

387

139

184

86 2232

1997 - 146

0

37

3

301

99

51

195

407

72

217

16 1544

1922 - 57

115

1923 - 53

4

1924 - 35

458

1 101

301

119

112

141

350

193

31 175 1696

1998 - 122

125

44

141

239

56

152

199

178 104 1837

0

0

314

529

566

150

134

150

59 113 2072

1999 - 23

113

151

3

301

212

149

289

94

215

365 344 2259

299 170

90

200

53

205

350

242

422

2000 -

280

32 189

125

103

269

124

202

226

61

77 1688 22 1535

53 2577

0

1925 - 191

190

93

36

252

287

163

86

193

30

103

12 1636

2001 - 142

1926 - 13

10

25 281

312

230

226

317

197

125

29

51 1816

2002-

1927 - 65

58

29

10

281

116

257

209

98

97

98 118 1436

5

3 474

48

54

186

126

287

222

180

68

40

117

195

30 143

119

151

97

110

98

62

51 160 1178

2003 - 54

285

8

68

130

204

141

300

123

211

53 196 1673

1928 - 259

429

215

55

93

247

168

49

175

298

10

37 2035

2004 - 26

16

39

25

162

270

186

188

207

29

344 224 1716

1929 - 72

154

128 130

66

202

68

162

66

138

63 146 1415

2005 - 101

241

5

73

22

385

129

141

179

288

133 286 1983

1930 -

106

22

311

38

317

274

121

414

95 418 2203

2006 - 112

32

47 175

90

50

214

61

130

0

87

54

27

896

38 1419

1931 - 13

14

190 302

307

515

252

146

171

36

175

99 2220

2007 - 233

48

100 189

252

68

176

51

63

26

175

1932 -

260

224 443

121

225

295

357

85

143

45

99 2300

2008

0

19

20

171

151

230

173

75

40

208 284 1475

3

104

1933 - 200

0

51 230

321

176

354

165

266

130

354 499 2746

2009

0

9

105

90

82

229

261

183

271

50

452

1934 - 65

195

2 142

0

46

173

212

181

331

279

2010

44

88

324 193

142

107

154

458

387

223

468 221 2809

145 236

809

301

102

195

51 1727

1935 - 107

24

146

177

440

172

296

223

31 101 2098

2011

1936 - 227

2

9

40

154

142

497

255

42

211

27 177 1783

1937 - 262

91

32

24

179

196

84

226

127

345

37 246 1759

2012 61 in mm 15.5

1938 - 179

72

0 133

23

275

219

72

32

22

63

2 1092

1939 - 130

349

52 664

306

272

109

466

101

65

324

52 2890

1940 - 64

10

31 175

31

48

164

62

175

34

66

73

1941 - 225

56

148

91

32

160

296

158

308

195

114

54 1845

1942 - 90

11

89

69

393

337

209

392

164

298

129

42 2223

1943 - 80

88

29 104

110

199

205

274

169

76

71

35 1440

1944 - 23

44

49 204

171

32

154

7

51

129

79 139 1082

1945 - 42

106

36

10

108

415

187

353

102

113

136

1946 - 369

342

211

67

166

113

379

138

74

144

124 105 2232

1947 - 10

157

305 117

22

267

352

168

225

318

146 289 2377

933

38 1646

1948 - 29

35

14 171

163

237

159

104

108

386

154

68 1628

1949 - 36

348

158

5

163

80

190

108

142

379

354

23 1986

1950 -

4

279

296 316

444

87

210

240

299

322

138

71 2706

1951 - 55

283

0 147

294

338

348

275

63

351

55

94 2303

1952 - 208

67

127 194

433

354

142

274

171

333

340

93 2736

1953 - 71

38

6 175

70

301

387

303

233

167

209

88 2048

1954 - 162

14

32 343

65

127

168

286

122

201

197 331 2048

1955 - 137

505

36

54

288

394

176

471

219

250

130

68 2728

1956 - 60

28

451 242

665

227

337

179

311

363

115

30 3008

1957 - 12

357

76

54

263

60

116

121

178

52

96 1479

94

Page 20 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024.

81 1806

73

155

81

248

119

113

186 110 2492

71 221 49 18 56.1 12.4

146 37

236 216 239 60 54.9 60.7

113 28.7

55 14

48 61 1516 12.2 15.5 385

30 168 7.7 42.7

377 337 95.6 85.4

284 72

249 236 63.2 59.9

77 64 1937 19.7 16.2 491.7

2014 32 in mm 8.1

78 111 409 131 19.8 28.2 104 33.2

257 272 65.3 69.1

32 8.1

118 56 30 14.1

123 31.1

37 1657 9.5 420.5

2015 218 in mm 55.4

53 13.4

111 180 96 28.2 45.7 24.4

87 22.1

97 24.6

21 1100 5.3 279.4

2016 73 inmm 18.6

84 175 21.2 44.4

263 254 66.8 64.4

240 61

461 348 117 88.3

218 117 2667 55.4 29.8 677.2

2017 130 inmm 33.0

84 21.4

16 239 235 4 60-6 59.6

13 244 250 3.4 69.9 63.4

114 125 28.9 31.8

199 128 1797 48.4 32.4 456.8

2018 94 inmm 23.8

7 1.9

0 0

28 150 7.2 38.2

102 138 185 25.8 35.1 47.1

43 96 10.9 24.4

276 310 1427 69.2 78.8 362.4

2019 0.0 inmm 0.0

183 41 46.5 10.4

0.0 371 0.0 94.2

193 282 109 49.1 71.5 27.5

86 21.9

22 5.5

99 25.2

23 1409 5.5 357.7

67 80 366 143 17 20.3 92.9 36.2

97 73 255 24.6 18.5 64.7

138 214 35.1 54.3

74 18.8

67 1658 17 420.8

2021 240.3 inmm 61

70.9 169 17.3 146.6 269.5 280.5 122.1 278.2 213.5 499.6 17.9 42.9 4.4 37.2 68.4 71.2 31 70.6 54.2 126.8

26 2093.2 6.6 598.2

2022 225.7 inmm 57.3

1.6 147.3 236.4 178.5 181.6 162.7 290.4 207.6 710.8 337.6 61.8 0.4 37.4 60.0 45.3 46.1 41.3 73.7 52.7 180.4 85.7 15.7

2013 in mm

0 0

2020 84 inmm 21.4

82 20.8

34 8.5

27 75 135 6.9 19.1 34.3 19 415 4.9 105.4

0 0

2742 696

2023 75.6 inmm 19.2

23.6 89.0 244.6 122.9 447.6 159.6 101.3 42.5 117.4 6.0 22.6 62.1 31.2 113.6 40.5 25.7 10.8 29.8

98.5 417.6 1940.4 25.0 106.0 495.5

Flood victims encouraged to seek Ready to launch regional tourism projects to free mental health support the stars

REGIONAL Victorians are being encouraged to prioritise their mental health and seek the help they need following the second flooding event in just over a year.

Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt has reminded people that they are not alone, with a range of free resources available to offer support to those who need it – as many Victorian farmers, business owners and community members grapple with the aftermath of the floods earlier this month.

Ms Stitt said that is a range of free services available to regional Victorians who may be struggling with their mental health as a result of the recent flood event.

“Please know these services are here to help and that you are not alone.”

For people of all ages living in or near Bendigo and the broader Campaspe region, including Rochester, the Bendigo Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub continues to provide support without the need for a referral from a GP or health professional.

The hubs were established to offer support to anyone feeling overwhelmed or having a difficult time and are presenting with a range of different issues, including distress, lowered mood, anxiety, substance use or addiction.

To access this free service, anyone across the Campaspe region can call 1300 375 330 or 0409 539 267 to have an initial discussion, or through visiting the Hub (39 Rowan Street, Bendigo VIC 3550).

Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals are also available to people in person or via telehealth, including: • Bendigo and Echuca Mental Health and Wellbeing Local (ser vicing Greater Bendigo, Loddon and Campaspe) – services can be accessed via (03) 5497 5600 and Echuca on (03) 5412 6600 • Shepparton Mental Health and Wellbeing Local (servicing Greater

Shepparton, Strathbogie and Moira) – ser vices can be accessed via 1300 000 559 • Benalla, Wangaratta and Mansfield Mental Health and Wellbeing Local – services can be accessed by visiting the Benalla Local (Shop 5B, 66 Nunn Street, Benalla) or the Wangaratta L ocal (5 Victoria Parade, Wangaratta), or via 1800 000 842 Acting as a ‘front door’ to the mental health system, Locals provide a mix of supports and therapies for individuals needing mental health support.

This service is available to anyone over 26 for free and without a GP referral.

Parents and carers can also seek free help for children up to 11 years old who may be distressed, with the Bendigo Children’s Health and Wellbeing Local providing free support. This service is available via 1800 433 977.

Take precautions against Buruli Ulcer this summer VICTORIANS, particularly those living in or visiting coastal areas, are being encouraged to understand the risks of Buruli ulcer and take precautions against mosquito bites this summer, as cases continue to emerge across the state.

Acting Minister for Health Ingrid Stitt is urging precaution as new data highlights a growing number of Victorians are presenting with the infection, with 363 cases in 2023, the highest number recorded since the infection emerged in Victoria in 2004.

Ms Stitt said that with cases of the Buruli ulcer on the rise, Victorians should understand the risks and take precautions – particularly those living or visiting coastal towns this summer.

“Warmer weather provides mosquitos with an ideal breeding environment, Victorians should use an insect repellent with DEET, cover up when outdoors and practice good hygiene by washing new scratches and cuts.”

While most of these cases are of low severity, it is important Victorians take precautions to avoid contracting the bacterial infection as warmer weather provides mosquitoes with an ideal breeding environment.

Buruli ulcer is an infection linked to mosquitos that can cause significant skin damage.

The condition can be treated with antibiotics, making early diagnosis and treatment vital.

Symptoms for the infection include spots that look like insect bites, ulcers, painful lumps, limb swelling, redness of the skin and occasionally people can develop severe pain and fever.

The State Government is urging Victorians to take simple and

practical steps to reduce the risk of contracting Buruli ulcer, including: • Covering up by wearing long, loose-fitting clothing – mosquitos can bite through tight clothing • Using insect repellents containing Picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin • Checking the repellent label before applying to children – spraying or rubbing repellent on children’s clothes is recommended, avoiding their skin especially their hands •Limiting outdoor activity if there is a significant uptick in mosquitoes and using ’knockdown’ fly spray, mosquito coils or plug-in repellent while sitting or eating outdoors •Removing stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed around the home or a campsite • Making sure windows are fitted with mosquito netting or screens •Promptly wash any new scratches or cuts and protect with a dressing •Wash exposed skin contaminated by soil or water after outdoor activities The State Government has also invested $1.1 million for the Beating Buruli project which aims to better understand how Buruli ulcer is transmitted and to determine additional effective ways to prevent and reduce infection.

More information on Buruli ulcer is available on the Better Health Channel betterhealth.vic.gov.au/ health/healthyliving/Buruliulcer#prevention-of-buruli-ulcer

For youth, there is also headspace centres in Shepparton (03 5823 8800 - 129 High Street, Shepparton), Wangaratta (1300 332 022 - 44 Rowan Street, Wangaratta), Bendigo (03 5406 1400 - 78-80 Pall Mall, Bendigo), and Echuca (03 5485 5048 - 451 High Street, Echuca).

In addition to localised support, people can also access free statewide telehealth support options, including Rural Health Connect (via ruralhealthconnect.com.au) and Partners in Wellbeing for people over 16 (via 1300 375 330).

In an emergency where there is immediate risk of harm to a person, call Triple Zero (000) or for 24-hour crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

AS so many employment opportunities exist because of tourism the State Government is bringing more regional tourism projects to life.

Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos last week visited the redesigned Bendigo Planetarium to launch the latest round of the Enabling Tourism Fund.

Premier Allan said that Regional Victoria has so much to offer and the government wants to add to the list, because more regional tourism means more regional jobs.

The fund is all about getting the most exciting regional tourism ideas off the ground and ready for investment.

It has already supported the Bendigo Art Gallery and other projects across the state.

The new round of funding announced today will make available up to $8 million to create a pipeline of more tourism infrastructure and more jobs.

Grants between $20,000 and $500,000 are open to tourism businesses, not-for-profit and Traditional Owner organisations, and more.

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The grants will be delivered in two streams: the first providing support to test the concept of a large new infrastructure project like a feasibility study or masterplan.

The second stream funds detailed design packages, funding strategies or community engagement plans.

Both are vital to attracting greater investment and getting projects off paper.

The fund is guided by five priorities of experiences that Victoria does best – First Peoples-led experiences, wellness, arts and culture, food and drink, and nature.

A new guide for tourism operators will also help them deliver projects that are ready for investment, delivering a great return and an even better experience for visitors.

The planetarium is centred around a state-of-the-art dome theatre and uses new technology like a laser projector system to display high-resolution images of planets and the cosmos.

Applications for the Enabling Tourism Fund are open until Friday, 28th March 2024.

For more information on the grants and the new guide, visit tourism.vic.gov.au.

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NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024 - Page 21

To the Editor

Prioritising Heart Health on a Budget: A REDFEB Call to Action Dear Editor As we embrace REDFEB, Heart Awareness Month, this Februar y, Heart Research Australia is dedicated to reshaping how Australians approach cardiovascular well-being without causing financial strain.

Beyond our collective effort to raise funds for life-saving

research, our goal this year is to shed light on the financial and health implications associated with heart disease, affecting individuals regardless of their financial circumstances.

Heart disease touches the lives of 2 in 3 Australians and stands as the leading cause of death.

Prioritising heart health is an investment in both personal well-being and financial stability.

In the midst of escalating living expenses, allocating resources for health might seem like a luxury.

However, overlooking heart health can result in severe financial consequences,

impacting wages, work capacity, career advancement, and long-term financial stability.

Knowledge plays a pivotal role in fostering a healthier heart, with eight out of ten cases of premature heart disease and stroke preventable through healthy lifestyle choices.

From heart-healthy, budget-friendly diets to accessible exercise options and stress management techniques, there are numerous practical and cost-effective strategies.

We invite all Australians to explore our free online Heart Hub, offering a wealth of expert advice on cul-

tivating heart-healthy habits.

Research is a lifeline, emphasising Heart Research Australia's steadfast support for world-class researchers.

This is why we encourage all Australians to wear RED this February and, if possible, extend a helping hand by contributing to fund vital research against heart disease.

For more information on REDFEB, heart health tips, and to contribute to this critical cause, please visit www.heartresearch.co m.au.

Sincerely, Nicci Dent CEO, Heart Research Australia

Heat stress: Get prepared NOW is a good time for producers to assess their heat stress management programs as heat stress can impose a significant financial and welfare cost to a business.

Heat stress has been shown to decrease milk yield by 10–25%, feed intake by 10–20%, decrease 6 week and 100 day in-calf rates, drop natural and artificial insemination conception rates, and increase the risk of clinical mastitis in higher yielding cows.

To manage the impact of heat stress the following actions can be taken when a high heat day is expected: •use low stress stock handling techniques; this helps reduce

physical body heat • delay afternoon milking until 5 pm • wet the dairy yard for an hour before cows arrive •use yard sprinklers as they encourage heat loss and are an effective method of cooling herds of cows quickly by: * aiming for a moderate to large water droplet from the sprinkler * using an on/off cycle, sprinkling cows for 1–3 minutes every 15 minutes * bringing the milking herd back to the dair y yard around midday if you

WEEKLY RAINFALL ST. ARNAUD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0.0 RAINFALL FOR JANUARY . . . . . . . .48.4 YEARLY RAINFALL TO DATE . . .48.4mm CHARLTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0.0 RAINFALL FOR JANUARY . . . . . . . .85.6 YEARLY RAINFALL TO DATE . . .85.6mm

don’t have a shade shed and using the sprinkler system to cool cows.

•instal a large water trough on the exit side of the dairy; during hot weather a cow can drink 200–250 litres per day • place fans above sprinklers and tilting them down 20–30° so they blow air between and underneath cows to enhance whole-body cooling • provide cows with the highest quality pasture available to graze overnight when they are cooler. Importantly, if animals are heataffected and show no signs of improvement, contact your local veterinarian for assistance.

In the long-term the following actions can be considered to manage heat stress to benefit the enterprise and ensure the welfare of cattle: • Review or undertake a whole farm plan including: • the placement of shade structures * tree plantings on northern and

- by Richard Smith, Agriculture Victoria Dairy Extension Officer, Tatura western edges of pastures – trees can reduce the radiant heat load by 50% or more.

•Fence-off tree lines to protect tree roots and reduce the chance of cows lying down in mud and dung • Install a shade cloth over the dairy yard, this could be permanent or retractable Modelling has shown when shade is provided there are 53% fewer moderate and 86% fewer severe heat stress events.

Shade, sprinklers and air movement enables faster milk letdown and more incentive for the herd to walk to the dairy • If you have a permanent feed-out pad, consider installing a shade structure over it • Assess the impact of withholding insemination during hot weather on herd profitability.

For further information please see Dairy Australia Feeding Cool Cows Research fact sheets.

Above: At the St. Arnaud meeting on December 29 the last race was won by the “winningest” local pacer, “Abbey Fields” who won 7 races this season for her Charlton owner/trainer Emily Wombwell. The winning driver was Ellen Tormey who had a career best season, winning 160 races and over $1.1m in stakes.

Melton win for Harley Blue AT Melton on Friday night the first race was won by the Kooreh pacer “Harley Blue” for trainers Shaun and Jason McNaulty and the ownership group of the McNaulty Family Racing Group, D S Gray, B L Pell, J Nelson, G Bunnett, J Cornwell, D Rhoden, T O'Connor, D G Carroll, E S Swanton, E R Swanton, S A Martin, Boos Boyz Group, G Ross, J Leonard, H Leonard.

The 5yo “Badlands Hanover” mare has now had 11 starts in Victoria for 3 wins, 2 seconds and a third and in Friday nights win set a new career best time of 1.55.7.

The Ballarat Cup meeting was conducted on Saturday night in front of a good sized crowd and the last race on the programme was won by “Catalpa Rescue” for Birchip owners Paul Lowry, Danny Lowry, John

Wilson, Leon Hogan, Rob Hodge and Max Dillon.

The 5yo horse is trained by Shane Sanderson and was driven by Abby Sanderson.

Earlier in the night the French stallion “Callmethebreeze” was a creditable second at its first Australian start for Haras Des Trotteurs in “The Knight Pistol”.

Trained by Anton Gallino of Yabby Dams Farm the 5yo had prize-

Inside running

by Archie

money earnings of over $1.5 million before Saturday night.

Stawell race on Australia Day and the Wedderburn HRC are running their Cups meeting at Mar yborough on Sunday the 28th.

usinesses alling aallll BBusinesse CCalling local business in our We’d love to invite every local region to be part of the North Central Directory. heelp support your To ΈQG out how we can help business online contact us on 5495 1055.

ory.com.au ralddirecttory.com.au ntraldirec w.northcent www.northce ww

Page 22 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024.

Above: Boort raced on January 5 with the 11yo mare “Tension Seeker” winning for her owner/trainer/driver Scott Torney.

St. Arnaud Bowlers’ third successive loss ST. ARNAUD Division 1 bowlers were beaten by Donald Golf in last Saturday’s Round 11 of North Central pennant.

St. Arnaud has lost their last three matches and are fortunate to have retained second position on the ladder.

To p team Wycheproof’s win over Wedderburn was a factor in St. Arnaud not slipping down the ladder.

There are five teams vying for the three positions under Wycheproof and there is little between them.

With three games to be played before the finals, St. Arnaud will need to win at least two of them to retain a spot in the top four.

Tough contest As is usual, the St. Arnaud - Donald Golf match was keenly fought, with both teams winning one rink, losing one rink, and drawing the third rink.

The winning margins decided the result Donald Golf’s way.

Steve Zsigmond, Glendon Hancock, Greg McNally and Tom Amos went to a 60 l e a d o v e r Pe t e r Hibberd’s four, but scores were 7-7 at 9 ends.

The St. Arnaud team gained a vital

break of 6 shots on ends 10 and 11, and they held on for a 4 shot win.

Ashley Dyke, Terry McSwain, Maurie Wo o d a n d To n y Marland had a really closely contested match against Robert Reseigh’s four.

Scores were level on 8 ends, and on 20 of the 25 ends only 1 shot was registered.

The result was a fitting draw.

Phil McRae, Col Marchment, Kerryn D y ke a n d D a r r e n Shepherd made a bad start, down 1 – 10 against Geof Rigby’s four after 6 ends, and could not get back into the game, going down by 13 shots.

Match details: S. Zsigmond 21 def P. Hibberd 17 A. Dyke 17 drew with R. Reseigh 17 P. McRae 17 lost to G. Rigby 30 St. Arnaud 55 shots lost to Donald Golf 64 shots – 9 points to 3.

Other round 11 results Division 1 Charlton 49 shots defeated by Boort 83 shots – 0 points to 12.

Wy c h e p r o o f 7 9 shots defeated Wedderburn 67 shots – 11 points to 1.

Country Club 87

shots defeated Donald 54 shots – 10 points to 2.

Ladder pts Wycheproof St. Arnaud Wedderburn Country Club Donald Golf Boort Charlton Donald

88 79 77 74 72 63 46 29

Division 2 Donald Golf too strong Donald Golf won 2 of the 3 rinks for a 26 shot win overall.

The only winners for St. Arnaud were Brian Eccles, Craig Cheesman, Terence Robertson and Jason Barron.

After a very close all-game contest the St. Arnaud team scored 2 shots on the last end to claim a 1 shot victory.

Kell Bibby skippered in pennant competition for the first time, but with Sandra McIntyre, Peter Duncan and Garry Smith, after a close first half, won only 3 of the last 12 ends.

Lloyd Goddard, Gary Shinners, John Prendergast and Frank James also handled the early ends quite

- Contributed well but faltered in the last half.

Match details B.Eccles 20 def P. Raynes 19 L. Goddard 23 lost to G. Wood 32 K. Bibby 9 lost to L. Borden 27.

St. Arnaud 52 shots lost to Donald Golf 78 shots – 2 points to 10 points.

Other Division 2 results Charlton 67 shots defeated by Boort 75 shots – 2 points to 10.

Wy c h e p r o o f 9 5 shots defeated Wedderburn 45 shots – 12 points to 0.

Country Club 103 shots defeated Donald 55 shots – 12 points to 0.

Ladder

pts

Wycheproof Charlton Donald Golf Wedderburn Country Club St. Arnaud Boort Donald

110 89 84 80 58 56 40 11

Next round Next round for Division one and two Jan 27th St. Arnaud v Donald We d d e r b u r n v Charlton Donald Golf v Wycheproof Boort v Country Club.

Above: Rob Batters, Kell Bibby and Jason Barron Twilight Bowls winners on January 11th.

Twilight bowlers back in action AFTER a Christmas break St. Arnaud’s Twilight Bowls competition resumed on Thursday January 11th with a good number of enthusiastic players enjoying their time together. - Contributed The winners of the Country Kitchen free pizzas, were Kell Bibby, Rob Batters and Jason Barron, 9 shots up.

The runners-up were Tony Marland and Clive Hancock 8 shots up.

Last Thursday evening January 18th, resulted in a big win by Darren Shepherd, John Prendergast and

Damian Yole, 15 shots up.

They will enjoy their Country Kitchen pizzas.

R u n n e r s - u p w e r e Te r r y McSwain and Craig Cheesman 3 shots up.

With the warmer weather now with us, Twilight Bowls is a really good time to take to the green and enjoy a fun social game of bowls.

St. Arnaud Midweek Bowls ST. ARNAUD played Boort in Round 10 for the final game before the - Contributed Christmas break.

Boort proved far too strong for St. Arnaud on the day.

Laurie Maxted defeated Lloyd Goddard 29 –13.

Thelma Moresi defeated Phil McRae 37 –11.

Sandra McIntyre skipping as Tom Amos was unavailable managed to lead her team to a win over John Gibson’s team 24 –19.

Final scores Boort 85 shots 10 points to St. Arnaud 48 shots 2 points.

The result of this game saw Boort and

St. Arnaud equal on 60 points on the ladder.

St. Arnaud was in 4th position by percentage.

Round 11 saw St. Arnaud host 2nd place Wycheproof at home.

Conditions were warm.

Phil McRae’s team played Eric Rayes team.

The home team was 8-2 up on the 4th end, and 14 –11 at the lunch break.

The game was very even throughout, but Phil’s team managed to hold on to the small

break for the remainder of the game to run out winners 26 –21.

Col Marchment’s team played Dale Grove’s team.

The game was even for the first 15 ends with the score 14 all at the lunch break.

St. Arnaud led 21 –18 on the 21st end but Wycheproof managed to pick up 13 shots on the last four ends to win the game 31 –21 Tom Amos’s team played Aaron Mead’s team.

The home team struggled and was down 5 –27 at the lunch break and 5 –31 on the 17th end but managed to win 7 of the last 8 ends to add 11 to their score.

The final score being 16 – 32 to Wycheproof.

Fi n a l scores Wycheproof 84 shots 10 points to St. Arnaud 63 shots 2 points.

St. Arnaud has now slipped to 6th position on the ladder and will need to win the remaining 3 games if it hopes to be in the finals.

St. Arnaud Tennis teams were winners Shop locally, support local business and secure your children’s future

THE long trip to Birchip proved worthwhile for both St. Arnaud tennis teams in Saturday’s Round 13 matches.

- Contributed St. Arnaud’s Kara Kara enjoyed a handy win over team Wirrim 129-88 games (8-2 pts) while St. Arnaud crushed Birchip 11633 games (10-0pts).

Kara Kara three sets winners were Ben Simpson, Luke

Jackson, Jake and Sam Male, Stephen Rodger and John Goode while for St. Arnaud three set winners were Wendy Shaw, Caitlyn and Sheridan Goode, Bailey Dur ward, Thomas Watts, Will Jackson, Don Erwin

and Matthew Goode.

Ladder St. Arnaud Nullawil Kara Kara Charlton Birchip Wirrim Donald

88 82 69 55 44 27 25

Above: Damian Yole, John Prendergast and Darren Shepherd Twilight Bowls winners January 18th.

St. Arnaud Indoor Bowls Tuesday 9th January After a short break over Christmas and New Year, it was back to bowling today.

A good start to the year with 12 bowlers participating to make up the four teams.

It was also good to see Marie Craddock return to bowling after having four years off.

Marie certainly hasn’t lost her bowling skills, with her first bowl for the day landing right on kitty.

Today with three teams all winning two games and losing one game each, when scores were checked, the winning team, just narrowly scrap-

ing through on 31 points were Malcolm Campbell (S), Beate Wa c ke r a n d K a y e Smith.

The other two teams both had 29 points and the fourth team didn’t win a game.

Tuesday 16th January Wi t h 8 b o w l e r s today, we made up two teams to play off, playing each other three times, each time on a different mat.

Winners were Flo A n d i s o n ( S ) , Ly l e S t r e e t e r, Aline Deanshaw and Rex Salter, winning two games to one with a total of 34 points.

The first game they won easy with 11

- Contributed points to 3 points and six ends.

The second game scores were level on the sixth end.

They were able to win the next two ends giving them a score of 9 points to 6 points and five ends.

In the last game the opposition, Bill Deanshaw (S), Beate Wacker, Maria Hills and Brenda Beggs, started off well winning five points in the first two ends.

The opposition didn’t score again until the sixth end when the took control of the game winning 12 points to 7 points and five ends.

This gave them a total of 20 points for the day.

NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024 - Page 23

Page 24 - NORTH CENTRAL NEWS, WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24th 2024.

SPORT

HOME DELIVERY 5495 1055

St. Arnaud Country Club midweek bowls ST. ARNAUD Country Club played Donald Golf at home on Tuesday 16th January. - Contributed St. Arnaud Country Club went down by 13 shots and remain on the bottom of the ladder.

Scores were Boort 10 points St. Arnaud 2 points.

Heather Esmore’s team defeated Donald Golf 26 shots to 20 shots.

Amanda Marland’s team was defeated by Donald Golf 20 shots to 22 shots.

Des Moulday’s team was defeated by Donald Golf 14 shots to 31 shots.

State Pairs But some encouraging news, Rhonda Pole and Faye Rodger won the State Pairs at Wedderburn on Thursday 18th January winning 3 games and drawing one game.

Also Simon Elliott

and Amanda Marland won the State Mixed Pairs at Boort on Sunday 14th January winning all their games.

The final was against Jonathan Grylls and Jeannie Grylls of Wycheproof.

All good signs for the future at St. Arnaud Country Club Bowling Club.

Above: Winners of the State Mixed Pairs Simon Elliott and Amanda Marland (left) (St. Arnaud Country Club) with runners-up Jeannie and Jonathan Grylls (Wycheproof).

St. Arnaud Country Club Singles Bowls Championship THE final of the Singles championship was played on Sunday 21st January, between Bill Rodger and Simon Elliott in front - Contributed of some very interested supporters.

Above: Winners of the State Pairs Faye Rodger (left) and Rhonda Pole (St. Arnaud Country Club).

The game was played on a very fast green which suited both, who are very good draw bowlers.

Simon got off to a great start winning the first six ends to lead 8 nil, then the game changed, with Bill drawing some beautiful shots winning the next 9 ends to lead 16 - 8 after 15 ends.

After 20 ends the score was Bill leading 19-11, although Simon was still

playing some very good bowls.

To Simon’s credit he still kept drawing shots to get within two shots, being 1921 after 26 ends, with game on.

The final two ends of the game Bill won both scoring 4 shots and go on to a well deserved win 25-19.

To both players congratulations on a great game of bowls.

Specials * Cauliflowers * Nectarines

$2.99 per kg * Pink Lady Apples

ROUND 11 was another must win game against the very Contributed competitive Donald team. -

$2.99 per kg * 1kg Carrots

Bill Rodger lost to Norm Hollis 20-25 87 shots to 54 10 points to 2

$1.99 per bag WHILE STOCKS LAST

Division 2 Division 2 in another must win game had a great day winning all three rinks by a margin of 48 shots.

Phil Elliott defeated Beryl Milne 37-18 Graham Shaw defeated Peter Wyllie 33-18 John Needs defeated Tom Farrer 33-19 103 shots to 55 12 points to nil

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St. Arnaud Country Club Pennant Jason Abbott and Simon Elliott had very good wins but the only blemish was Bill Rodger’s team who lost to Norm Hollis’s team by 5 shots.

Norm Hollis has always been a top bowler, was back to his brilliant best against Bill Rodger’s team saving his team on many occasions.

Country Club won two of the three rinks by a margin of 33 shots.

Jason Abbott defeated Kelvin Adamson 40-12 Simon Elliott defeated Bill Hegarty 27-17

FREE HOME DELIVERY

105 Napier Street, St. Arnaud.

Telephone (03) 5495 2848

7 Days a Week

B RM za from 5.00pm Ph: 1300 416 461 Piz Above: Country Club Singles Champion Bill Rodger (left) and runner-up Simon Elliott.

Phone Orders Taken & Delivered