Moorabool News March 14

INSIDE THIS WEEK...

Footballers soar to new heights

Fungi help gardens flourish

Courageous bystanders helping save lives

CHOOSE YOUR SUPERHEROES

Only five more sleeps until the Ballan Autumn Festival (BAF) is upon us, and time is running out to vote for your favourite superhero created by our talented local kids. The Wombat Regional Arts Network is running a ‘Design a Super Hero’ competition, with 20 entries in the running to win.

All 20 are up on the front windows of Zest Café on Inglis Street, and can also be viewed online. The 20 young artists will all receive a free milkshake and cookie, and have their superheroes up on banners during the Festival, while the

winners from each of three age groups will also have their superhero printed on a t-shirt.

Some of the creative designs include Macey Pearce’s ‘Space Thunder Girl’ who saves little kitty cats from fire, and Seth Egan’s Mighty Hoops Roo, who has a magic basketball and protects Australian animals and the environment.

Twelve-year-old Aidan and 9-year-old Lucinda are facing off against nine other entries in the 7 – 12 age group, and both are excited to show their superheroes off to the public.

“My superhero’s from a video game, I thought I’d just make him muscly to make him into a superhero,” Aidan told the Moorabool News.

“It’s pretty cool that everyone’s going to see it. My friends will probably see it too, I think they’re going to the parade.”

Lucinda said she couldn’t choose just one superhero to draw – so she submitted a whole team of superheroes.

“It’s really exciting…I made a superhero group. I couldn’t just which superhero I wanted to do, and I made my unicorn toy one of the superheroes too,” Lucinda added.

You can view, and vote for, your favourite superhero from each age group in-person at Zest Café, or online by heading to www.wombatarts.org and clicking ‘2023 Ballan Autumn Festival Design a Super Hero’.

Ballan Local Butcher Autumn Special

Courageous bystanders helping save lives

Bystanders are stepping up to help save lives as cardiac arrest emergency cases reach record highs, according to new research by Ambulance Victoria (AV).

The latest Victorian Ambulance Cardiac Arrest Registry (VACAR) Annual Report reveals paramedics responded to 7,361 cardiac arrests in 2021/22 – a rise of 5.8 per cent.

When cardiac arrests were witnessed by members of the public, 79 per cent of people were willing to step up and commence life-saving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) – up from 77 per cent a year earlier.

More bystanders are also using public automated external defibrillators (AEDs) which significantly improve survival rates. In 2021/22, 107 cardiac arrest patients received a shock from an AED before paramedics arrived, up from 82 the year prior.

“We know that minutes matter in a cardiac arrest and that if a person receives bystander CPR and defibrillation, their chance of survival more than doubles,” AV Director Research and Evaluation Dr Ziad Nehme said.

“We can proudly say that Victoria has best cardiac survival

rates in Australia, and one of the best in the world.” Frankston teenager Jasper Wickes is alive today thanks to the life-saving efforts of bystanders who immediately called Triple Zero (000) and started the chain of survival. In 2021/22, 360 Victorian patients like Jasper were discharged from hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest.

The 16-year-old was playing basketball at Hoop Culture in Carrum Downs on 8 January when he collapsed in front of his team.

The Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority’s (ESTA) Triple Zero call-taker calmly guided Jasper’s coach of four years, Hayden Jardine, who started mouth to mouth. GoodSAM Responder Jess Purcell was notified of the emergency and came running from a nearby dance studio and began chest compressions.

Jess, who had only registered for GoodSAM just days before Jasper’s cardiac arrest, drew on years of CPR training as a scout.

Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) paramedics arrived within seven minutes. Jasper’s heart was successfully

restarted, and the crew took him to Monash Medical Centre in Clayton.

Dr Nehme said Jasper’s survival showed how GoodSAM Responders can make a real difference.

“With more Victorians suffering cardiac arrests than ever before, AV’s GoodSAM Responder program has never been more vital,” Ziad said.

GoodSAM is a life-saving smartphone app that connects Victorians in cardiac arrest with volunteers who are willing to start CPR and use an AED in the first critical inutes while paramedics are on the way.

There are three simple steps to save someone’s life: Call (Call Triple 000), Push (Perform CPR) and Shock (use on an AED). Patients who received bystander CPR had a higher survival rate (11 per cent) compared with those with no bystander CPR (5 per cent).

The VACAR report is available via https://www.ambulance. vic.gov.au/about-us/research/research-publications/.

Lights, camera, action to catch ‘em

Crime Stoppers Victoria and Victoria Police are uniting to tackle aggravated burglaries including those that result in motor vehicle theft.

The new campaign – called ‘LIGHTS. CAMERA. CATCH ’EM.’ – calls on the community to share what they know about this type of offending, and submit footage of suspicious activity to Crime Stoppers.

Crime Statistics Agency figures show there were 4,214 residential aggravated burglary offences in Victoria during the year ending 30 September 2022.

This represents a 12.7 per cent increase on the previous period.

Crime Stoppers Victoria CEO Stella Smith said Victorians could help protect their community by regularly reviewing their CCTV cameras, and sharing any suspicious activity recorded.

“We need the community’s assistance to help police catch perpetrators and prevent any further home break-ins or people’s cars being stolen from their own driveway,” Ms Smith said.

"We want the community to know that collaboration is key to preventing and solving these incidents. If you see something, say something."

An aggravated burglary can be when the offender enters a home with someone inside.

While police intelligence suggests more than 95 per cent of residential burglaries involve no confrontation whatsoever, they remain a high priority for police.

Thieves are often looking for unlocked doors, dark driveways, and easy access to vehicles.

Sometimes offenders have attempted to break into multiple houses in the same street.

Stolen cars can be used for further offending and involved in intentional high-risk driving.

The new ‘LIGHTS. CAMERA. CATCH ’EM’ campaign is putting offenders on notice that anyone in the community could be watching.

The community can play a key safety role through keeping an eye out for suspicious activity and reporting it to

Crime Stoppers.

Crime Stoppers and Victoria Police have released examples of the type of footage which can be submitted to assist investigators.

This includes CCTV or dashcam footage of suspicious behaviour such as people trying car doors or looking into vehicles, loitering outside properties, and looking through windows or attempting to enter homes.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Southern Metro Region Therese Fitzgerald said police take aggravated burglaries and car theft extremely seriously.

"Aggravated burglaries are a key area of concern for police. That’s why we’re so pleased to be teaming up with Crime Stoppers Victoria,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Fitzgerald said.

"When cars are stolen it’s of particular concern, as those vehicles can be used for other offending. We’re investing significant resources into combatting this issue.”

Acting Assistant Commissioner Fitzgerald said that while police have patrols, dedicated operations, automatic numberplate technology, and the Air Wing, help from everyday Victorians is also crucial in bringing criminals to justice.

“We also need the community’s support. Information from the public is crucial in helping us track down offenders and hold them to account," she said.

Aggravated burglary attracts a penalty of up to 25 years' jail, while car thieves can be jailed for up to 10 years.

The community are urged to share CCTV footage and any information about suspicious activity with Crime Stoppers via crimestoppersvic.com.au, or by calling 1800 333 000.

Bounty back in 2023

The Victorian Government’s fox and wild dog bounty has resumed for 2023.

Agriculture Victoria Biosecurity Officers will again operate monthly collection centres across the state from March until October.

Agriculture Victoria Biosecurity Manager Jason Wishart said participants could submit entire fox scalps for a $10 reward and/or entire wild dog body parts for a $120 reward at specified collection centres during scheduled collection times.

“I urge participants to refresh their knowledge of the bounty terms and conditions to ensure their bounty submissions are accepted,” Mr Wishart said.

The Fox and Wild Dog Bounty program received $6.7 million in the Victorian Government’s 2020-21 Budget and will continue until 2024.

Since the program was introduced in 2011, over a million fox scalps and close to 4,630 wild dog body parts have been collected in Victoria.

“In 2022 alone, some 82,558 fox scalps and 384 wild dog body parts were collected,” Mr Wishart said.

“Foxes and wild dogs require ongoing

management by all land managers and Agriculture Victoria encourages an integrated approach using a range of management practices.

“The bounty offers incentive for community participation in fox and wild dog management, but other techniques also are important to effectively manage the damage they cause.”

Foxes and wild dogs prey on livestock, especially lambs and sheep, inflicting significant economic and production loss to Victoria’s livestock sector. They also have an impact on native wildlife.

Participants are reminded that the Victorian Fox and Wild Dog Bounty has gone digital.

“Agriculture Victoria introduced the new system last year to streamline the application process, reduce wait times at collection centres and allow participants to keep track of bounty applications,” Mr Wishart said.

To register for the new digital system, please visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/bounty and follow the prompts.

Visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/bounty to find out more or call the Customer Service Centre on 136 186.

Marsh Mender launches

Sustainability was in the air at the inaugural Marsh Mender Repair Café on Sunday 26 February.

Visitors to the Darley Neighbourhood House were welcomed by the tunes of the AppleFM broadcast, and once inside, an excited team of volunteers to greet them.

It was a great morning with four menders available (sewing, woodwork and mechanical, musical instruments and bike repairs) and many people bringing items for repair including bikes, instruments, clocks, headphones, photo frames, clothing, wooden drawers equating to 52 kg brought in for repair and saved from landfill.

The room was abuzz with people keen on the idea, sharing a chat and enjoying a cuppa. Fruit kindly donated by Foodworks and Marsh Mender Melting Moments gifted from Kez's Kitchen meant people stayed well fed. Liz from Switched on Sustainability was on-hand to chat about simple switches every household could make, while Tegan from Big Wellbeing co-hosted an interactive discussion on repairing your sleep.

All eyes now turn to future monthly events and workshops, the next being on Saturday 25 March at 10 am. Menders will be on-hand to help sharpen kitchen knives, repair

Supporting healthy communities. That’s the Australian way.

We’re proud to be the major partner of Little Athletics. Since 2017, we’ve provided over $2.2m in sports equipment grants to grassroots centres and donated more than 3.8 million bananas to help little Aussie athletes live healthier, happier lives.

press studs in leather, bike maintenance and sewing repairs plus more.

Community members with mending skills of any kind are encouraged to join the Marsh Mender Facebook group www.bit.ly/Mendersfb, or email marshmender@gmail.com. The more the mender!

This project is supported by the Circular Economy Communities Fund. The Fund is delivered by Sustainability Victoria under the Victorian Government’s circular economy plan, Recycling Victoria: a new economy.

Footballers soar to new heights

Letters to the Editor

Writing letters to the Editor

Each letter must be accompanied with the writer’s full name, address and phone number (name and suburb for publication only) and limited to 300 words. Letters to be received via post or email (preferred option).

The Editor has the right to limit the amount of words in each letter received and published letters are at the discretion of the Editor. Send your letters to news@themooraboolnews.com.au

Dear Editor, Plantation promises – Where are they?

As part of the 7th of November 2019 announcement, Securing the Future For Forestry Industry Workers from the Victorian State Government to phase out the Native Timber Industry, statements and promises were made at the time and more recently in regards to plantation supply for the Victorian timber industry and manufacturers.

The Andrews Labor Government in 2019 stated, “To assist businesses as they prepare for this transition, the Labor Government will provide dedicated funding to help local mills invest in new equipment that will allow them to process alternative timbers and support local jobs.”

This glossy statement is far from the truth of what is happening. Mills are closing. Jobs have been lost. That is the hard cold truth.

The Andrews Government also stated “That includes Australian Paper, which will be supported to transition to a full plantation-based supply, ensuring it operates until at least 2050 – providing support to its almost 1,000-strong workforce and stability to its customers.”

Australian Paper was not transitioned to a full plantation-based supply and evidently, the paper lines of the mill will not be operating beyond 2023. Australia now has no capacity to manufacture white copy paper.

The Andrews Government then goes on to say “Today’s announcement builds on the Government’s existing efforts to increase our state’s supply of plantation timber, with a record $110 million allocated in the Victorian Budget 2017/18 to help ensure ongoing access to affordable, locally-produced paper products.”

About a year after this initial announcement, it was announced that a $2 million grant was provided to VicForests to establish the $10 million Victorian Forest Nursery in Nowa Nowa in East Gippsland. This was subsequently scrapped.

APC Notice

It’s shaping up to be a great year for our local junior footballers, with 16 Moorabool boys named for the Western Jets and GWV Rebels squads.

Seven boys from the Bacchus Marsh Cobras and two from the Darley Devils have been named to play for the Jets, while five Cobras and two Devils will play for the Rebels.

Joel Freeman, Lucca Grego, Jack Kovacevic, William Lalor, and Isaac Nixon from Bacchus Marsh will join Darley’s Mitchell Gardiner in the Under 18 Jets side, facing Cody Gates, Sam Lalor, Ethan McKercher, Joshua Huxtable (Bacchus Marsh), Nick Cadman, and Brady Wright (Darley) from the Under 18 Rebels.

In the Under 16s, Kade Hilton and Jacob Martin from the Cobras will team up at the Jets with Sam Lillie from the Devils, while Bacchus Marsh’s Cody Salmon is Moorabool’s sole representative on the Under 16s Boys Rebels squad.

The Junior Presidents of the Bacchus Marsh and Darley Football Netball Clubs are both thrilled to see so many local footballers make the cut.

Bacchus Marsh FNC Junior President Scott James said the achievement was a positive for everyone at the Cobras. “We’re extremely proud. Those boys have grown up playing at the Cobras, most of them for their whole career so far,

so to see them achieve this is fantastic,” Mr James told the Moorabool News.

“It gives parents a glimpse into what could potentially be ahead for their kids, and inform them of the pathway programs. It gives the younger kids something to aspire to, so it’s good for all the families and the club to celebrate their achievements.”

1. Obligation to publish – Designated Resolution 5

5. Publication of notices about the Council

There was no further action on the promise of plantations until in September 2022, the State Government planted the problem with a private plantation business. 2030 is approaching faster than a plantation tree can grow to be harvested, and many can see that this will leave a huge shortfall of timber supply to the local chains.

(1) Each publisher must publish a notice about the Council in each print controls and on each website it controls.

Darley FNC Junior President Rohan Matthews said he was optimistic that playing in the Coates Talent League could be a stepping stone to greater things for the boys.

“The boys certainly have what it takes to make it far in their footy careers. Brady had a stellar 2022 playing at the Rebels and with the Darley Seniors, he is now training with the Geelong VFL team along with Playing with Rebels in 2023,” Mr Matthews said.

The Andrews Government promised “In providing a 30-year forward plan, we’re creating a new, more sustainable future for this industry – but just as importantly, we’re giving workers the certainty they deserve.”

(2) The content and format of the notice will be as determined from time Council. The notice is to be published in a prominent position on the to the editor or the home page of a website, or in such other position Executive Director of the Council.

These promises are far from reality - we have not seen any plantations established since this announcement more than 3 years ago, and workers in the industry are facing more uncertainty than ever before, with many long term workers being stood down from the industry.

2. Form and content determined by the Council – Council decision

“Mitch had a great season last year at the Rebels and playing over half the year with the Darley Seniors including both finals as a 16-year-old. Nick had an injury plagued 2022 but has been training very strongly this year and we look forward to seeing him perform well at both the Rebels and Darley in 2023.”

The Coates Talent League Boys season kicks off on Saturday 25 March, with the Western Jets facing the Sydney Swans at Highgate Recreation Reserve in Craigieburn, and the GWV Rebels facing the Bendigo Pioneers at Mars Stadium in Ballarat.

God help us with what will happen to the forest estate and looming environmental catastrophe that will wipe out the exact environs and ecosystems that they are preaching to protect, due to the ideological lock up of the forest estate.

[Name of publication] is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself email (info@presscouncil.org.au) or by phone ([02] 92611930). For further information http://www.presscouncil.org.au.

Karen Stephens, Timber Towns Victoria President

The Moorabool News is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@ presscouncil.org.au) or by phone ([02] 9261 1930). For further information see www.presscouncil.org.au.

[Name of publication] is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@presscouncil.o rg.au) or by phone ([02] 92611930). For further information see www.presscouncil.or g.au.

Funding needed to address homeless crisis

find a rental and are living in tents. Homelessness services are turning away women and children fleeing violence who desperately need help because they simply don’t have enough workers to respond.

Community grants program open

in Hawke to apply, and get some funding to support their vital programs.

Ahead of the Federal and State Government budget announcements, homeless advocacy groups have called on both levels of government to invest more heavily in homelessness services.

Over 200 of the nation’s leading charities and homelessness services signed an open letter to the Federal Government last week, asking it to “plug a $65 million funding black hole” they say will see more than 650 homelessness support workers cut, while demand for homelessness assistance is soaring.

This funding would cover the Equal Remuneration Order (ERO), which has been funded since 2012 to cover wage costs for homelessness services. Current funding expires this June.

The joint letter from Homelessness Australia, National Shelter, the Community Housing Industry Association and ACOSS has been signed by 230 organisations concerned at the devastating impact on vulnerable people.

Over the past two years rents have risen 28 per cent while incomes have increased by only 5 per cent.

“Demand for homelessness services is surging,” Kate Colvin, CEO of Homelessness Australia, said.

“Families with full time breadwinners can't

“It is untenable that in the midst of our worst ever housing crisis the Government is planning to cut funding, and reduce help to people without a home.”

In Victoria specifically, the Council to Homeless Persons has written to the State Government to invest $47.5 million in the upcoming budget, to go towards the From Homelessness to Home (H2H) program.

A further $224.4 million over the next four years would guarantee H2H – which ends long term rough sleeping and homelessness – and Homes For Families continue their incredible track record of supporting around 2000 households.

Like the Federal funding, H2H’s funding isn’t guaranteed beyond June – making a commitment from the State Government in the coming months crucial.

“It's absolutely crucial that this program continues. The results of H2H are truly remarkable,” Council to Homeless Persons Chief Executive Jenny Smith said.

“Given the results, we need a relatively modest investment of just $47.5 million to continue H2H’s work next year, and $224.4 million over four years to continue and extend its fabulous outcomes. We’ve seen people’s lives turned around because of this program. Improved mental health, produced better employment outcomes and kept families together.”

The eighth round of a Federal Government grants program for community groups closes this week, and a local MP is calling on eligible groups to get in touch.

Member for Hawke, Sam Rae, is calling on not-for-profit community organisations in Moorabool Shire, and across Hawke, to apply for a stronger community grant through the Government’s Stronger Communities Program

Funding of between $2,500 and $20,000 is available to fund small capital projects that deliver social benefits and boost local community participation, including small-scale infrastructure upgrades, fit outs, and equipment purchases.

Expressions of Interest for projects in the Hawke Electorate must be received by Federal Member for Hawke Sam Rae by 5 pm on Friday 17 March 2023.

Mr Rae encouraged community groups

“Our communities across Hawke are powered by the local volunteers that keep our sport clubs, community groups and local emergency services running. That’s why we’re backing them in with the Stronger Communities Grants Program,” Mr Rae said.

“I’m fighting for local community groups by delivering the investment they need –helping them to grow and thrive.”

Once the Expressions of Interest from local community organisation have been received, the Hawke Grants Committee will select the projects that will progress to be nominated by Mr Rae to the Department overseeing the program.

One local project that has received funding from the program in the past is the Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigades’ Electronic Community Information Boards.

The Fire Brigade received a $6,850 Stronger Communities Grant in 2021 to fund the boards, replacing outdated manual signage with the modern, weatherproof LED boards at the Bacchus Marsh and Darley Fire Stations.

Successful grantees will be notified as soon as their grant is approved by the Department, allowing them to start their projects as soon as they are ready.

To lodge an Expression of Interest, visit www.samraeforhawke.com.au/strong er-community-grants/.

Childs name: Age:

Parent/guardians name: Phone No.: Address:

Public reserves considered highways

The reality of illegal firewood collection

An unlicenced motorbike rider has been fined for riding in a state park, stating he was unaware it was an offence to do so.

Dylan Sopko appeared in-person at the Bacchus Marsh Magistrates’ Court on Friday 10 March, entering a guilty plea but claiming he was unaware he needed a licence to ride in a state forest.

“I was never riding on a highway, never even a dirt road. It was a track up in Wombat, in a state forest. I was not aware that I was doing the wrong thing,” Mr Sopko said.

Magistrate Hugh Radford said Mr Sopko “had a problem, since public reserves are considered highway”.

The technicality was confirmed in the police summary, read out by Police Prosecutor Sergeant Adam McCormack.

“On Saturday 10 December last year, police from the State Highway Patrol were at the trail bike unload area near Radcliffe Road, Bullengarook, both on marked police all-terrain motorcycles. At about 10.50 in the morning, the accused was observed riding a red and white Betta motorcycle into the trail bike unload area near Radcliffe Road as part of a group of three riders,” Sergeant McCormack said.

“Police approached the group for licence and registration checks and spoke to the accused who did not produce a driver licence. His previous Victorian driver licence is being recorded as surrendered. His current Western Australian driver licence is a car licence only. The accused’s motorcycle registration is cancelled, having expired on the 8th of August 2020.

“Radcliffe Road is a highway as defined by the Road Safety Act.”

Following the infringement, Mr Sopko’s motorcycle was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1,425. He admitted to not being licenced to ride a motorcycle and that it was no longer registered.

Sergeant McCormack said there was nothing untoward in the way Mr Sopko was riding the motorcycle.

“You’re on a public reserve which is considered a highway under the legislation. I accept that you haven’t done anything untoward in the way you were riding, but you were unlicenced and your bike was unregistered,” Magistrate Radford said.

“I’m not going to interfere with your licence today, I’m just going to proceed by way of a fine. I’m going to impose an aggregate fine of $600. You’ve got to make sure next time you want to ride a motorbike off-road, that you’ve got the appropriate licence, because otherwise the same thing’s going to happen and you’ll be at risk of losing your licence.”

“One hundred per cent Your Honour,” Mr Sopko said.

As many Victorians stock up their firewood supplies for winter, the Conservation Regulator is urging people to help save critical wildlife habitat and protect Aboriginal scarred trees by sourcing firewood responsibly.

Illegal firewood collectors have caused significant damage to parks, forests and reserves in recent years, with some areas like the Mansfield Swamp Wildlife Reserve in Northern Victoria losing an estimated 50 per cent of its old mature trees through timber theft.

Birds and reptiles, as well as a range of native mammals, such as possums, gliders, and bats, rely on hollows in both standing and fallen trees for habitat. The illegal collection of firewood, if made up of mature trees and limbs, also has potential to harm Aboriginal scarred trees. Once gone, an important piece of Aboriginal cultural heritage is lost forever.

Domestic firewood collection from public land is only available in designated areas during the autumn and spring firewood collection seasons. During these times people can collect a maximum of two cubic metres of firewood per person per day and a maximum of 16 cubic metres of firewood per household per financial year. Only fallen timber without hollows can be collected. This year the Conservation Regulator is targeting firewood theft with Forest Fire Management Victoria and Parks Victoria through Operation Hollows. Authorised Officers are educating the public about the rules and penalising thieves. Anyone caught breaking firewood collection rules can face on-the-spot-fines of $740 under the Forests Act 1958 or a maximum penalty of

$9,246 and/or 1 year jail if the matter is taken to court.

Last year the Conservation Regulator laid 625 charges and issued 85 infringement notices and 16 official warnings for firewood offences, including cutting or taking fallen or felled trees, and disturbing, damaging or destroying wildlife habitat. Cases which resolved in the Magistrate Court system faced convictions, fines and had chainsaws and trailers forfeited and destroyed.

It is also important firewood collectors understand their obligations under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006. All Aboriginal places, objects and Ancestral remains are protected in Victoria. It is an offence to harm Aboriginal heritage and substantial penalties apply.

If you think you have found a scarred tree or other Aboriginal cultural heritage, contact your relevant Registered Aboriginal Party (if one has been appointed) or First Peoples - State Relations on 1800 762 003.

“We can all do our part in protecting Aboriginal cultural heritage, wildlife habitat and biodiversity by knowing where, when and what firewood can be collected,” Chief Conservation Regulator Kate Gavens said. For details of where firewood can be collected, visit: www.ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood/ firewood-collection-in-your-region.

Report finds journos fear defamation

A report released last fortnight has found that almost half of Australian journalists have refrained from publishing certain information, due to fears of a defamation lawsuit.

Conducted by Medianet and based on over 1,000 journalists’ responses, the ‘2023 Australian Media Landscape Report’ found that 49 per cent of journalists have withheld from publishing information they knew to be true because of fear of defamation.

A further 41 per cent said they believed defamation laws in Australia are too strict in relation to the media, while only 2 per cent responded that they felt there had not been any threats to public interest journalism in 2022.

Many respondents noted that editors, publishers, or lawyers at their media organisations were highly conservative when it came to publishing potentially defamatory information due to the financial risks of being taken to court.

One respondent said defamation laws were their biggest fear.

“Working for a small organisation my biggest fear is a wealthy person suing us for defamation and litigating us out of business with court costs,” the respondent said.

“Defamation laws… have had a chilling effect on reporting, particularly on political corruption and sexual misconduct, as cautious media publishers understand how costly a potential defamation action can be,” another said.

Medianet’s annual survey includes insights into some of the challenges Australian journalists face in their work, including defamation laws but also issues such as discrimi-

the world’ at Ballan concert

nation and abuse, burnout, unpaid work, and gender pay gaps.

Medianet Managing Director Amrita Sidhu said an overwhelming majority of survey respondents highlighted the struggles of working within the industry.

“Almost every single respondent [98 per cent], felt that public interest journalism in Australia had been threatened in 2022, whether that be due to defamation laws, disinformation or lack of resources and staff, among other factors,” she said.

“So many journalists discussed the personal toll of being overworked, underpaid and burnt out, along with tight deadlines, feeling undervalued, and covering difficult news stories including floods, war and COVID.”

Seventy-two per cent of respondents said they had experienced burnout at work, and 22 per cent reported being of an ethnic background other than Australian non-Indigenous, New Zealander, English, Scottish, or Irish said they had experienced racial discrimination or abuse as part of their media work.

While the gender pay gap has decreased, male journalists remain more highly paid than their female and non-binary counterparts, with 31 per cent of males receiving over $100,000 per annum compared to 20 per cent of females and 13 per cent of non-binary journalists.

Females and non-binary journalists were also found to be less represented in chief-of-staff, photojournalist or cameraperson, publisher, presenter or announcer, editor or producer positions.

Letters to the Editor

Writing letters to the Editor

Each letter must be accompanied with the writer’s full name, address and phone number (name and suburb for publication only) and limited to 300 words. Letters to be received via post or email (preferred option). The Editor has the right to limit the amount of words in each letter received and published letters are at the discretion of the Editor. Send your letters to news@themooraboolnews.com.au

Dear Editor, Wire Rope Barriers, Missing Reports and Reality

In June 2020, Victoria’s Auditor-General handed down his report into the state’s $1 billion road safety program.

The Victorian Government program championed the use of wire rope barriers as a solution to reduce headon crashes and run-off-the-road accidents by up to 85 per cent.

The Auditor-General found the reality was closer to 56 per cent, not 85, and questioned the cost-benefit assumptions being made on taxpayers’ behalf.

VicRoads was to install these barriers on 20 of Victoria’s high-risk rural roads. It was both over time, and 22 per cent over budget.

The Auditor required VicRoads to respond to the report within 12 months, providing detailed accident data.

My question to the Minister for Roads and Road Safety is this: has VicRoads met its obligation to the AuditorGeneral, and what was that response?

And if it hasn’t responded, why not?

The VicRoads report was required to provide accident details for specific sites – and should have presented data depicting ‘before and after’ wire rope barrier installation.

And not only that, but it should also have gone into the specific date of accidents, the time of day, the weather conditions, the type of accident. For example, was it caused by a tyre blowing out?

Or was it caused by a someone dodging a pothole and over-steering?

Maybe it was pouring rain and visibility was low?

Faster than the speed of light, a concert in Ballan will take attendees ‘around the world’ this weekend, in less than two hours.

With Ballan buzzing with excitement in anticipation of the arrival of superheroes on the eve of the Ballan Autumn Festival (BAF), the Ballarat Singers and The Little Brass Band will take its audience across the world with music, with the fun-filled 80-minute concert to incorporate songs from France, Germany, Ireland, and more.

BAF President and Captain-Conductor of the ‘Around the World in 80 Minutes’ concert, Kevin Harper, expressed his excitement about this unique virtual travel opportunity. "Traveling at such superhero speed will enable us to take in such countries as Ireland, England, America, France,

and Germany, sampling some of their best-known tunes en route – the local scenery will be provided by music and song with a chance to sing along. In-flight refreshments are included in the price of the tickets,” Mr Harper told the Moorabool News.

“Your chance to travel with Ballan Overseas Airways at superhero speed around the world in 80 minutes is an opportunity not to be missed. This unique travel experience promises to be an unforgettable journey, filled with music, culture, and excitement.”

The ‘virtual flight’ departs from the Ballan Mechanics Hall at 2 pm on Saturday 18 March, with tickets priced at just $10. They can be purchased from Eventbrite by searching for 'Around the World' or 'The Ballarat Singers', and last-minute deals will also be available at the door. Book your ticket now to make sure you don’t miss out.

All of this data should be known for every accident. It should have been presented to the Auditor General, or within a responding report, as required.

Why is it that the Auditor General can see through these numbers - the real data - and question the benefit of the $1 billion being spent, yet this Government just keeps rolling it out as the panacea for road safety across the state.

If this report required by the Auditor exists – I look forward to reading the detail.

I cannot find it anywhere.

But I’ll take a guess and suggest that fixing massive potholes and crumbling roadsides might be a better way to spend taxpayers' money - and saving lives on our roads – than expensive wire rope barriers and their eternal maintenance costs.

‘Around

Fungi help gardens flourish

With their earthy fragrances and myriad colours, fungi capture the essence of autumn. Often better known for their edible varieties that enhance our seasonal cuisine, fungi underpin the health of almost every terrestrial ecosystem on the planet.

We are often only aware of fungi when mushrooms push through the earth, but the growing and feeding part of the fungus exists underground as a network of connective fibres known as mycelia. This scaffold of mycelia provides the basic architecture of soil, underpinning the foundation and function of above-ground life.

Many fungi also form connections with a huge variety of plants in a process called mycorrhizal symbioses. In these subterranean alliances, fungi greatly extend plant root systems, helping them to access water and nutrients. Fungi also improve the resilience and health of plants by increasing

their drought tolerance and resistance to soil-borne disease. In return for this work, plants supply fungi with sugars produced through photosynthesis. These symbiotic relationships are especially important in old and weathered, phosphorus-poor soils found throughout Australia.

We also know that mycorrhizal networks stretch beyond just individual trees. Fungi extend relationships through the soil to other plants, facilitating nutrient transfer between them and uniting plant communities. Mycorrhizal networks orchestrate plant interactions, promoting their growth and survival.

Fungi are the prime recyclers of organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil and making them available to plants.

They do this by secreting enzymes that can degrade almost any organic material containing carbon. Bacteria and invertebrates also contribute to decomposition processes, but only fungi degrade lignin – one of the compounds that

gives wood its hardness and structure. Every leaf and stick that falls to the ground is likely to be recycled by fungi. The healthiest gardens are those that harbour the greatest diversity of fungi.

Gardeners can encourage fungi in their gardens by retaining organic matter (leaves, sticks, branches, bark etc.) in a range of ages, sizes, and species. This provides the best opportunity for a diversity of microhabitats and microclimates that allow fungi to colonise. Minimising stresses to fungi through physical disturbance to soils such as digging, compaction, over-watering, excessive use of fire, fertilisers or chemicals will allow fungi to reach their full potential in supporting your garden.

Dr Alison Pouliot is an ecologist and photographer who runs fungal ecology workshops in Australia and internationally. She is author of The Allure of Fungi, Wild Mushrooming and Underground Lovers. www.alisonpouliot.com.

Letters to the Editor

Writing letters to the Editor

Each letter must be accompanied with the writer’s full name, address and phone number (name and suburb for publication only) and limited to 300 words. Letters to be received via post or email (preferred option).

The Editor has the right to limit the amount of words in each letter received and published letters are at the discretion of the Editor.

Send your letters to news@themooraboolnews.com.au

Dear Editor,

It was nice to see Sam Rae, our Federal MP for Hawke, in the MNews (28 February, p.7) and to read of his support for the Barrys Reef Avenue of Honour Restoration Project. It has been good to see more of Sam about the electorate this year, in most cases announcing good news for projects and financial support.

I don’t want to detract from these worthwhile causes; indeed, I would like to congratulate Sam for his efforts to bring Federal and State attention to projects which benefit the people of Hawke. But these are the easy bits of his job, delivering good news and providing a quick photo opportunity.

A much harder and more vital part of Sam’s role is standing up for Hawke communities and pushing back against government investment in our region which is not wanted, and which clearly will not benefit our communities.

The current ‘wolf at the door’, is the Western Renewables Link (WRL) and the recent action by Lily D’Ambrosio to take owner-

Cleaning up Moorabool

ship of the project via a Ministerial Order to allow AEMO to fast track its completion ahead of the new VNI-West transmission project.

On the positive side, this finally clarifies who ‘owns’ the WRL project and should take accountability for it. It also seems to indicate the State government’s financial support for potential design changes (if allowed).

But on the other hand, this decision also appears to be directed at taking away the community’s right to challenge AEMO’s apparent errors and failure to comply with the National Electricity Law when deciding the current overhead route in the Supreme Court. These failings need to be corrected and a better design and route chosen.

Standing up to the WRL threat and defending the rights of Hawke’s communities to hold AEMO to account and change the WRL outcome will be the real test of Sam’s representation of this electorate. I’d really like to see the MNews publish more photos of him fulfilling this part of his role.

Clean Up Australia Day was Sunday 5 March, and Moorabool Shire Council has thanked the many local groups and individuals who rolled up their sleeves to keep Moorabool beautiful.

Illegally dumped litter costs ratepayers roughly $80,000 a year to clean up, so Council was happy to partner up with the Friends groups around the Shire, collecting almost 100 bags of waste and recycling collected by volunteer groups.

The most commonly littered items found on Clean Up Australia Day this year were takeaway and beverage containers, face masks, plastic bags, car tyres, and furniture. Council gave a special thank you to the Friends of Hopetoun Park, & Parwan Gorge, Friends of Werribee Gorge & Long Forest Mallee, the Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh, and the Bacchus Marsh Lions Club, for their hard work cleaning up Moorabool Shire this year.

If you see someone littering or dumping rubbish on nature strips, parks and reserves, or local roads, you can report it to Council at my.moorabool.vic.gov.au/do-it-online.

Darley

Dates:

Ba hus Marsh Eynesbury

Dates: Apr 8, May

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to the editor or the home page of a website, or in such other position as is agreed with the Executive Director of the Council.

2. Form and content determined by the Council

– Council decision

[Name of publication] is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@presscouncil.org.au) or by phone ([02] 92611930). For further information see http://www.presscouncil.org.au.

DEATH NOTICE

DICKINSON – Lindsay John

Passed away peacefully on March 3, 2023.

Aged 73 Years.

Loved and cherished husband of Judith (dec).

Loving and devoted father of Shawn & Michael.

Respected stepfather of Rohan, Tracey and Dale.

Admired father-in-law of Caroline, Samantha and Natalie.

Adored Pa of Brodie, Jayden, Jye, Brittney, Leni, Emmerson, Jarrod, Darcy and Hannah.

Great Pa of Kyson, Spencer, Hailey, Sianah, Oakley, Layken, Isla and Isabell.

Loved and Remembered Always and Forever.

FUNERAL NOTICE

DICKINSON-

The Funeral Service for Mr Lindsay John Dickinson will be held at Michael Crawford Funerals Chapel, 226 Main Street Bacchus Marsh on

FRIDAY (March 17, 2023) commencing at 11.00am.

Following the Service, Lindsay will be laid to rest at the Ballan Cemetery.

The Service for Lindsay will be live streamed and available to view on our website: michaelcrawfordfunerals.com.au (Select –Funeral Live Stream)

Bacchus Marsh Ph 5367 6733 michaelcrawfordfunerals.com.au

842

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[Name of publication] is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@presscouncil.o

The Moorabool News is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@presscouncil.org.au) or by phone ([02] 9261 1930). For further information see www.presscouncil.org.au.

The Moorabool News

OFFICE 15 Haddon Drive, Ballan, 3342

PHONE (03) 5368 1966

EMAIL Editorial news@themooraboolnews.com.au

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EDITOR Helen Tatchell GRAPHIC DESIGN Ruth Comey

PUBLISHED BY The Ballan News Pty Ltd

PRINTED BY Latrobe Valley Express

Published by Helen Tatchell, 15 Haddon Dv, Ballan, 3342 for The Ballan News Pty Ltd, 15 Haddon Drive, Ballan, 3342. Printed by Latrobe Valley Express. Responsibility for electoral material is accepted by the editor, Helen Tatchell, of 15 Haddon Drive, Ballan 3342. ABN 84 115 355 461.

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Sport

Ballan CCricket

Under 13 - R15

Ballan 1/165 def Wendouree Renegades 3/71

Batting - Clover McIlwaine 26 Ret. n.o, Jackson Letcher 26 Ret. n.o, Callum Lister 21 Ret. no., Mickey Rawlins 18 n.o, Eamon Grigg 15 n.o, Kori Davenport 14 Ret. n.o

Bowling - Sarah Burton 2/9 from 3 Overs, Clover McIlwaine 0/2 from 3, Oscar Britt 0/4 from 2, Jackson Letcher 0/9 from 3, Mickey Rawlins 0/7 from 2, Mabel Ayres 0/16 from 3.

Under 15

Ballan/Brown Hill 3/114 lost Wendouree White 6/117

The final game of the season came after two weeks off due to a bye, and the kids were desperate for the game to start.

Batting first saw Ballan facing a wet ground, making it hard work getting the ball across the boundary. Charlotte Wallace (Ballan) came in at 5 and stuck around for a hard fought 3. Ed Sullivan (Brown Hill) retired on 32 and Ryan Grech (Brown Hill) fell 1 short finishing 29no. Riley Storer (Ballan) opened the bowling and once again restricted the opening batters in their scoring opportunities. Jai Singh (Ballan) opened the bowling and took a wicket in his later spell caught behind by Ed. Bowling at 4, James Bayard (Ballan) had his best spell all year unlucky not to get a wicket. In the next over he combined with Lucas for a great run out after a miscommunication saw the batters both at the same end. Charlotte Wallace was excellent fielding at backward point all innings. Wendouree needed 5 off the last over and got them in just 3 balls.

Under 17

Ballan 5/194 def Napoleon -Sebastopol 7/152

Batting - R Lister 52no, M Hoey 50no, J Jarvis 23 Bowling - R Lister 5-1-16-3, S Burton 3-0-27-2, C Matheson 2-0-6-1

Ballan 1st XI (BCA 2nd Grade)

Ballan 5/166 def Ballarat-Redan 165

Bowling - Heath Doherty 9-1-4-25, Kobe Heafield 9-2-2-29, Mick Nolan 4-0-1-7, Eli Muir 5-0-1-19

Batting - Mick Nolan 72, Jack Jarvis 38

In the final game of the season Ballan took on Redan, who won the toss and elected to bat. Good bowling early from Kobe Heafield and Ben Loughnane meant runs were hard to come by before Eli Muir snagged the first wicket of the day. The middle overs belonged to the spinners with Heath Doherty the stand out taking 4 wickets.

Amazingly the skipper threw the ball to Mick Nolan and it paid off with the leggy snagging a wicket in sensational scenes.

Some good death bowling and fielding saw Ballan restrict Redan to a competitive total of 165.

With the bat it was hard to score with good bowling by Ballarat-Redan but again Mick Nolan and Jack Jarvis put on over a 100 run stand.

Ballan eventually chasing down the total with 5-6 overs to spare and with Heath and Benny at the crease.

A great way to end the season with back to back wins against 2 finals bound sides.

BCA 4th Grade - Ballan 2nd XI

Ballan 4/228 def Golden Point 9/186

Batting - Ryan Lister 100 retired not out, David Leach 64 not out, John Costello 15, Max Burton 12

Bowling - Ryan Lister 4-2-2-9, Daniel Pascoe 5-0-2-12, Jake Wernicke 5-0-2-26, John Costello 4-0-1-20, James Somers 4-0-1-20, Max Burton 3-0-1-26

Lions bow out Ballan Brumbies Basketball

Darley Cricket Club

Darley's quest to send dual Premiership coach Brian Wheelahan out on a high has ended in disappointment, following a comprehensive 213 run semi-final defeat at the hands of East Ballarat last weekend.

After winning the toss, the Lions opted to bowl and after capturing two early wickets the outlook was promising before a resilient East Ballarat outfit steadied to amass an intimidating 326 (all out) with just two deliveries remaining from their 80 allotted overs.

Given the Lion’s proven ability with the bat, the target was certainly within reach but a flurry of wickets falling with dire regularity made the result somewhat an inevitable conclusion from a fair way out.

Three Lions players reached double figures - only Shaun McAndrew (27), Dilon Chandima (24) and Hasitha Wickramasinghe (17) provided some resistance on an otherwise dirty day with willow in hand for the mighty Lions.

The struggles with the bat were typified by an inability to score freely as a miserly six boundaries and a six was all the Lions could conjure for a sparce highlights reel amid the run chase.

Sadly, Wheelahan's role comes to an end, but he leaves an indelible legacy with two Premierships, a Runners Up and a Semifinal finish on his resume.

The Lions will bounce back hungrier than ever for another crack at the promised land with a new voice at the helm in 2023/24. There's no doubt the nature of the loss will sting, but it's hoped the

disappointment will only fuel the fire of a wounded Pride keen to atone come their next opportunity.

BCA 1st GRADE - (Semi Final)

East Ballarat 326, Overs 79.4. Darley 113, Overs 50. S. McAndrew 27, D. Chandima 24. Darley lost by 113 runs.

BCA 2nd GRADE - (R14)

Darley 241, Overs 45. L. Cornford 74, B. Ward 50.

Wendouree 181, Overs 43.5. B. Ward 3/20, DJ Hynes 2/15.

Darley WON by 60 runs.

BCA 3rd GRADE - (R14)

Golden Point 8/192, Overs 40. A. Bird 2/21, G. Martindale 2/23.

Darley 87, Overs 30. W. Kilmartin 18. Darley lost by 105 runs.

BCA 4th GRADE - (R14)

Mt Clear 5/180, Overs 40. A. Ward 2/17.

Darley 8/169, Overs 40. B. Densley 48, T. Gallagher 44. Darley lost by 11 runs.

BCA 5th GRADE - (R20)

Darley 192, Overs 32.4. J. Penny 60, H. Hoey 30.

BFB 162, Overs 29.2. D. De amyand 4/36, L. Amor 2/19.

Darley WON by 30 runs.

With only two rounds left to play, the Ballan Brumbies Under 16 C Boys, a side beset by absences, needed to halt their three-game skid to shore up a finals berth. A game against the bottom of the table Celtic Tigers offered just that opportunity. Things didn't get off to a good start when James Prosser - the team’s only remaining big - was late to the venue, forcing the team to start with a proverbial mosquito fleet. Ballan's guards flew out of the gates, harassing Celtic's players every time they put the ball on the floor. Harrison Clark and Noah Pace both picked up early steals, leading to easy points at the other end. Will Lewis, meanwhile, was white hot. The forward connected on an early three pointer and a pair of tough drives to the basket as the Brumbies got off to a flyer.

Ballan's interior defense was reinforced with Prosser's belated introduction as the boys extended their lead off the back of Lewis and Pace carving holes in Celtic's defense.

Ballan's defensive intensity was epitomized by Jack Clark, an under 14 playing up an age group to cover for the team's raft of missing players, stepping in to take a charge from giant Tigers centre Christian Young.

Celtic gained a foothold late in the half as they started to click offensively, but another three from the on-fire Lewis - he had 15

points by this stage - saw Ballan lead 26-14 at the half.

Celtic started the 2nd half strongly as Young and Blake Ferris started to find their range. Ballan responded through Pace and Lewis.

A much bigger but slower side, Celtic began to tire as they chased Ballan's speedier players around. Prosser took advantage of a tired defense as he repeatedly carved his way to the hoop whilst Tom Connally was able to leak out for a series of easy buckets.

Ballan's speed and fitness eventually won the day, the Brumbies confirming their spot in the finals with a comfortable 55-29 win.

RESULTS

Under 16 Boys

Ballan G White 34 lost Wildcats 38

Ballan G Blue 2 lost Phoenix Rollers 44

Ballan E 31 lost Excies Acmy 42

Ballan C 55 def Celtic Tigers 29

Under 19 Boys

Ballan H 34 lost Phoenix Patriots 54

Ballan E 34 def Phoenix Lions 30

Ballan D 54 def Celtic Tigers 13

Under 19 Girls

Ballan 46 def Drummo Dragons 32

Ballan Golf Club

Results - W/e Saturday 4 March

Wednesday – Stableford

Winner - David Leach (13) 42 points.

R/up Frank Raffael (8) 37 points on c/b from Don Wickson (13).

Magpie - 14th Chris Tudor.

NTPs - 12th Denis Conroy, 15th David Leach.

Saturday – Stroke

1st Round Club Championships & March 2023 Monthly Medal.

A GRADE

Winner - Anthony Moore 67-5-62

R/up - Bob Arklay 74-9-65 on c/b from Jason Bonar & Chris Dunn.

B GRADE

Winner - Bill Pickering 80-18-62.

R/up - Don Wickson 76-13-63 on c/b from Peter Clifford.

C GRADE

Winner - Brian Cran 88-26-62. R/up - Athol Love 86-23-63.

NTPs - 12th Don Wickson, 15th Chris Dunn.

Magpies - 14th Bob Arklay & David Leach, 18th Jason Bonar. Balls 5, Cut-off 63 on c/b

Anthony Moore, Brian Cran, Don Wickson, Bill Pickering, Athol Love.

Three-way tie for March 2023 Monthly Medal with Anthony Moore, Bill Pickering & Brian Cran, to be decided by results from April 2023 Monthly Medal to be played on 1st April 2023.

Current Stroke Leaders of Championship

A Grade – Chris Dunn 66

B Grade – Don Wickson 76

C Grade – Athol Love 86

Current Net Leaders of Championship:

A Grade – Anthony Moore 62

B Grade – Bill Pickering 62

C Grade – Brian Cran 62.

Results - W/e Saturday 11 March Wednesday - Stableford

Winner - Chris Tudor (11) 41 points.

R/up - John Costello (19) 38 points.

Magpie - 14th Don Wickson.

NTPs - 12th Chris Tudor, 15th Bill Pickering.

Saturday - Stroke – 2nd Round Club Championships.

A GRADE

Winner - Chris Dunn 62-1-61

R/up - Damian Toohey 71-9-62 on c/b from Anthony Moore.

B GRADE Winner - Stuart Miller 76-24-52.

R/up - Athol Love 82-23-59.

NTPs - 12th Athol Love, 15th Andrew Carton.

Magpies - 14th Danny Halstead, 18th Anthony Moore.

Balls 5, Cut-off 62 on c/b

Stuart Miller, Aggy Germon, Rob Brown, Andrew Carton, Athol Love.

Current Stroke Leaders of Championship

A GRADE

Chris Dunn 128

B GRADE

Don Wickson 152

C GRADE

Athol Love 168

Current Net Leaders of Championship

A GRADE

Anthony Moore 124

B GRADE

Peter Clifford & Don Wickson 126

C GRADE

Athol Love 122

Bacchus Marsh Little Athletics

The Centre held a twilight meet last Friday evening with all athletes participating in 4 events for the competition. PB Star of the Week was awarded to Giji Baniluk after achieving PBs in all her events.

Last Saturday and Sunday, 18 BMLAC athletes were represented at the State Track & Field Championships held at Lakeside Stadium, Albert Park.

Bacchus Marsh had a very successful Championships claiming 7 medals – 1 Gold, 3 Silver, 3 Bronze.

On Day 1, Bridie Shanahan opened the competition for Bacchus Marsh with a strong performance in the Under 17 Shot Put being declared the State Champion in a Gold winning performance and a pending State record of 10.68m.

Next in the Shot Put ring was Alexis Farrell competing in the Under 10 event. Alexis continued her sensational form with a put of 8.02m to claim the State Silver medal.

Bridie Shanahan then competed in the Under 17 Javelin and won her second State medal with a distance of 36.43m, taking the Silver medal.

In the 200m timed finals, Eni Olaitan flew around the bend and closed well to cross the finish line in 3rd place to win the Under 9 Bronze medal. Under 10 athlete Skyla Berryman was quick off the mark and showed her speed in the early stages and in a close finish was awarded the Bronze medal.

Day 2 of the Championships saw Bacchus Marsh win 2 medals in the 100 metre sprint events. Skyla Berryman claimed her second medal of the Championships winning the Under 10 Silver, while Eni Olaitan also took home her second medal holding on for Bronze in the Under 9 event.

Twenty-seven top 10 results and many PBs - the Centre is very proud of their athlete’s achievements.

This Saturday prior to the weekly competition commencing, the Centre will conduct the Bacchus Mash Community – Bendigo Bank 100m Gift. The fastest seeded athletes in each age group from Under 7 to Under 16 will compete over 100 metres with athletes handicapped using their season’s PB time.

This will be an exciting event and all athletes and supporters are invited to line the front straight to cheer and support representatives of each age group.

BMLAC State Track & Field results:

Girls 17

300m Hurdles: Danielle Ide 52.39 (4th); Discus: Bridie Shanahan 28.81m (6th); Javelin: Bridie Shanahan 36.43m (2nd); Long Jump: Bridie Shanahan 4.69m (4th); Shot Put: Bridie Shanahan 10.68m (1st); Triple Jump: Bridie Shanahan 10.91m (4th);

Girls 16

90m Hurdles: Emma Stewart 16.55 (7th); Discus: Emma Stewart 28.17m (5th);

Javelin: Emma Stewart 25.34m (7th); Long Jump: Emma Stewart 4.61m (9th); Shot Put: Emma Stewart 9.52m (9th); Girls 15

100m: Mackenzie Estlick 13.30 (6th);

200m: Mackenzie Estlick 27.41 (7th);

High Jump: Mackenzie Estlick DNS; Long Jump: Mackenzie Estlick 4.94m (5th); Triple Jump: Mackenzie Estlick 9.87m (8th); Girls 13

Discus: Keira Stapleton 19.73m (19th); Girls 11

High Jump: Halo Arahanga 1.20m (11th); Long Jump: Halo Arahanga 3.78m (14th); Girls 10

70m: Skyla Berryman 10.64 (4th);

100m: Skyla Berryman 15.04 (2nd); 200m: Skyla Berryman 31.49 (3rd); Discus: Anni Clarke 16.14m (15th); Long Jump: Alexis Farrell 3.26m (17th); Shot Put: Alexis Farrell 8.02m (2nd);

Girls 09

70m: Eniola Eni) Olaitan 11.13 (4th); Mya Berryman 11.21 (8th);

100m: Eniola Eni) Olaitan 15.78 (3rd); Mya Berryman 16.19 (12th);

200m: Eniola Eni) Olaitan 32.86 (3rd); Nyah Halfhide 34.07 (13th); Mya Berryman 34.68 (15th);

800m: Emilia Ibrahim 3:07.21 (15th);

Boys 16

400m: Samuel White 64.31 (20th); 800m: Samuel White 2:27.81 (12th); 1500m: Samuel White 5:09.60 (6th); Javelin: Samuel White 28.55m (12th);

Boys 15

High Jump: Alex Lloyd 1.60m (7th);

Boys 14

90m Hurdles: Nicholas Ide 14.10 (6th); 200m Hurdles: Nicholas Ide 30.99 (14th); Javelin: Nicholas Ibrahim 21.51m (21st); Triple Jump: Nicholas Ide 9.79m (10th);

Boys 13

80m Hurdles: Nicholas Mai 15.08 (16th); 200m Hurdles: Nicholas Mai 30.47 (9th); Triple Jump: Nicholas Mai 9.40m (20th);

The Queen reigns supreme

The Queen is back at the head of the table and like her divine stablemate is set for big things for Brent Lilley’s powerful trotting stable.

Much loved Queen Elida produced her first victory of the year at Tabcorp Park Melton, in handsomely winning the Aldebaran Park La Coocaracha Trotters Free For All, just a week after Aldebaran Zeus scored in the Group 1 $100,000 Hammerhead Mile at Menangle. “Zeus was great and just a big relief to have Elida back on track as well,” Lilley said. The trainer’s affection for the pair was “a dead heat”, but Queen Elida made sure she was again prominent in the conversation with the commanding win.

Reinsman Chris Alford drove a patient race in the La Coocaracha Trotters Free For All, confident Queen Elida would be able to bridge the gap to leader Keayang Livana when called upon, and so it would prove.

“(The Inter Dominion) seemed to toughen her up a bit, we’ve known she’s always got the speed but now I think she can sustain it for so much longer,” Alford said.

“She could have gone to the front at probably the 600 if I wanted to but she has that little tendency to knock off when I hit the front, so I was just happy when Jason (Lee) started chasing (Keayang Livana) up down the back, it was beaten and I didn’t want to go to the front too early. It was a nice and cosy run for her first up.”

"Nice and cosy" was an apt description after Queen Elida showed her customary speed to clear out for a seven-metre win from an impressive Electrojet, while Sleepee ran on well to claim third and bank more important points in the Kerryn Manning Trotting Mares Triple Crown.

For the winner, it was also a strong sign that she could return to the form that had her favourite for December’s SENTrack Inter Dominion, in which she ultimately ran a bold third in the final.

“She showed that speed that we know she’s got. Looking forward to the $75,000 good mares race in two weeks’ time.”

That is the Aldebaran Park Sumthingaboutmaori Trotters Free For All, a Group 1 for trotting mares and the final leg of the triple crown.