Phone 5862 1034 – Fax 5862 2668 – Email - Editorial: [email protected] - Advertising: [email protected] – Registered by Australia Post – Publication No. VA 1548 established 1895 LEADER NumurkahWEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2020 $1.30 INSIDE RV friendly

Barmah open victory

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New cop Sweet victory ... RV friendly campaigners John Watson, Bruce in town and Elva Harris and Peter and Diane Hill celebrate council’s decision with See story page 5. See story page 4 a cuppa at one of the endorsed camping sites.

Mayoral election doubts quashed THE Victorian Local Government Inspectorate Cr Bourke told last week’s meeting of council, the O cer; and has closed a complaint made to it regarding the va-  rst ordinary monthly meeting of the new council, (c) recorded in the minutes of the Council, lidity of the recent vote for Moira Shire’s mayor and that he felt it could have been considered negligent whether or not the oath or a rmation was taken at deputy mayor, held at a special meeting of council not to challenge the validity of the mayoral election a council meeting. on November 18. result, given that, at a  ve/four split, it was very Cr Bourke said that, although there are regula- e inspectorate received a complaint from Cr close. tions allowing a councillor to appear at a meeting Kevin Bourke, which stated that the vote of Cr Wayne He said that section 30 of the Local Government by audio-visual link, these were subordinate to the Limbrick was invalid due to the declaration con rm- Act was speci c about the requirements for a coun- act. ing his oath of o ce had not been signed in front of cillor being able to act as such, and that given the “My challenge was not an a ack on any one spe- the CEO prior to him voting in the mayoral election. circumstances, he felt that Cr Limbrick’s eligibility ci c councillor,” he said. Cr Limbrick appeared at the meeting via Zoom, to vote in the election was in question. “It was the fact that the circumstances surround- making it di cult to see if he had signed the dec- Section 30 of the Local Government Act 2020 ing one particular councillor on the night of the Strathy laration a er he took the oath, however he assured states: meeting provided the vehicle for the challenge; that the Leader last ursday that he had completed that (1) A person elected to be a councillor is not ca- is the remote a endance.” action immediately. pable of acting as a councillor until the person has He said that he had sought advice on interpre- producion “I knew on the Wednesday morning that I wasn’t taken the oath or a rmation of o ce in the manner tation of the legislation, which was still pending, going to be able to get to the meeting, so they sent prescribed by the regulations. but was prepared to accept the advice of the CEO me the oath of o ce form, and I signed it straight (2) e oath or a rmation of o ce must be in the interim, and resume normal activities until a er I took the oath and scanned it and sent it back (a) administered by the Chief Executive O cer; such time as, and if, contradictory advice is avail- See story page 5 straight a er the meeting so the CEO could sign it,” and able to be brought back to council for considera- he said. (b) dated and signed before the Chief Executive tion. www.numurkahleader.net.au 2 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 PETER COX & SONS Record number of women elected to councils FUNERALDIRECTORS Professional service tailored to your needs THE Andrews Labor Government is on track to reach gender parity in councils by 2025, with Locally owned & operated 24 hours - 7 days a week a record number of women elected in the 2020 Local Government elections. Funeral calls and information With results now con rmed by the Victorian Electoral Commission, 272 women will take 5862 3047 their place on councils for this term – represent- Cnr Meiklejohn & Quinn Streets ing 43.8% of councillors, a new high for both ACCREDITED MEMBER OF THE AUSTRALIAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION and the nation. Minister for Local Government Shaun Leane Meals on Wheels Roster said that Victoria is the  rst state in Australia to Rnd 1 Rnd 2 Rnd 3 top 40% women councillors and shows strong J. & H. A. Cook M. Ford progress towards the 50% target set by the Victo- 7/12 Pickersgill D. Roughsedge rian Government’s gender equality strategy, Safe S. Morley Num Sec V. Bunny and Strong. 8/12 College G. Varley “ is is an absolutely outstanding result for the R. Kennett C. North R. & C. people of Victoria. Gender equality and diversity 912 C. Boldt Hardham bene ts all of us. It makes communities, councils W. Knight VOLUNTEER Diverse and our state stronger,” Mr Leane said. 10/12 REQUIRED Builders G. Watson Rotary Club of C. & K. Cole “My congratulations to everyone elected. Be- 11/12 R. Wright Numurkah ing a councillor is a privilege and an honour. Coordinator – MHA Care Phone 5742 1111 e State Government looks forward to working with our new councils to build thriving commu- nities for all Victorians.” A century on from Mary Rogers’ election to Richmond City Council as Victoria’s  rst female councillor, what is now known as Yarra City Leading from the front ... COME AND SEE US Council has elected women to six of its nine Marie Martin is a role model seats. for all aspiring councillors, “Victoria is leading the way in pursuit of gen- and especially women. der equality and more women on councils will FOR ALL YOUR mean councils more closely represent the com- munities they serve, and make be er decisions,” be the president of various organisations, and In general, councillors are also younger and Minister for Women, Gabrielle Williams said. it hasn’t been seen as a place for women. It’s be- more diverse, with more than 300 councillors But of Moira Shire’s nine councillors, just two come more acceptable that women do have a elected for the  rst time. are women. place in public life, at board tables, in leadership ere are at least 28 councillors from the LG- PRINTING One of those two is Marie Martin, who believes roles, and at sporting clubs. BTIQ+ community, and six that identify as hav- empowering women to strive for leadership roles “I think what we’ve got to do is encourage ing an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander back- is crucial in order to represent the voice of the women and make it easier for women to be able ground. FLYERS community with greater balance and accuracy. to stand for council, I think that’s really impor- e government invested to encourage a di- “Gender equity is important, and there’s got to tant. verse range of candidates, through initiatives be an a itude shi ,” Ms Martin said. “Years ago, it was really only retired people or such as the It’s Our Time campaign for women “Women have got to feel con dent that they BUSINESS CARDS farmers that could a ord to take time o to go to and the Your Country, Community and Council have the support to stand for council, because the meetings, who stood for council. Now, coun- with women and men from diverse backgrounds cil meeting times are more  exible and accom- program for the Aboriginal community. MENUS on council together, we get a more holistic view, modating for everyone, plus there’s child care for e new Gender Equality and Local Govern- which is more representative of the community.” parents with kids, which means that anybody can ment Acts, passed into law earlier this year, put MAGAZINES It is clear that we have come a long way in this put their hand up for council, and we get a wider gender equality, diversity and inclusion as a key space, but there’s still a way to go. cross section of the community represented. priority for local representation to ensure coun- “I don’t know whether I believe in quotas – I “We’re 51% of the population, we o en add a cillors re ect the communities that they serve. CALENDARS believe in merit, but I do think we’ve got to really di erent perspective to debates, which is healthy, Ms Martin hopes that she, and fellow Moira encourage women to be con dent enough to put because you need very wide-ranging views on Shire councillor Julie Brooks, can pave the way themselves forward, because we’ve been relative- things. Some issues are very clear-cut, whereas for more women to occupy council positions. POSTERS UP TO A1 ly conservative in the past,” Ms Martin said. with others, there can be quite a variance in peo- “Hopefully all women in Moira would think a PROMOTIONAL “Traditionally, males have always tended to ple’s opinions.” leadership role is possible,” she said. PRODUCTS

WE CAN EVEN DESIGN IT FOR YOU! Alarms interrupt fi ries’ sleep FIRIES across the district have experienced an- e smoke was coming from about a square to make sure it was completely out. other busy week, with nine turn-outs, including metre of lucerne meal dust that was smouldering At 2.45pm the following day, brigade NumurkahLEADER several which saw them rolling out of bed in the under the hopper. It is thought that stones got was turned out to assist at a grass and crop  re at early hours. into the hammermill, causing a spark. e meal Simson Road, Ardmona. As the  re escalated, at Ph. 5862 1034 and brigades were was removed from under the hopper and extin- 3.25pm a task force of Numurkah Nathalia, Kaa- 88 Melville St, Numurkah turned out to a car leaking gas, in Main Street, guished by , Numurkah and Strathmer- rimba and Strathmerton tankers was also called Strathmerton, at 9.35am last Wednesday. ton brigades, with the other brigades stopped to assist. e car had been involved in an accident on enroute. A number of false alarms also kept Numurkah Tuesday, with the gas leak not being noticed un- Firies said it was fortunate that the smoke was brigade on the hop throughout the week, most Numurkah Leader is til the following morning. Fire Brigade spo ed in the early stages, allowing a quick re- of them, unfortunately, at inhospitable hours. bound by the Standards a ended with its gas detector, and half a tank of sponse before it became a much more serious gas had to be burnt o with equipment brought and complicated incident. e  rst of these came at 2am on Wednesday, of Practice of the at Numurkah hospital. Australian Press over from Wangara a. A report of a tree on  re behind a retirement A busy weekend commenced on Friday village on Cobram/ Road, Cobram, In the days following, drops in water pressure Council. If you believe at GrainCorp, which set o a pump-house alarm, the Standards may have been breached, evening, with Katunga, Numurkah and Strath- got a strong response on Saturday, with Cobram, merton brigades turning out to a report of smoke , Yarroweyah, and brigades, had brigades visiting the McDonald Street facil- you may approach the newspaper ity three times. e  rst two calls happened in itself or contact the Council by email issuing from the Katunga Lucerne Mill, Katun- along with air support, turning out at 1.40pm. ([email protected]) or by phone ga, at 8.05pm. Eight minutes later, Cobram, Dru- Instead of a  aming tree, brigades found a large the early hours of last Friday, with brigades re- ([02] 9261 1930). For further information manure, , Muckatah, , heap of lawn clippings that had spontaneously sponding at 12.25am, and then less than three see www.presscouncil.org.au. and Yarroweyah tankers and aerial combusted. e  re brigades put the  re out and hours later at 3.10am. e third incident was at pumper were also called. instructed the owner to spread the clippings out the more civilised time of midday on Monday.

NumurkahLEADER

88 Melville Street, Numurkah VIC 3636 Beverley James Dominique Harrison Heather Joanne Phone: 03 5862 1034 Hutchins Su on Cosgriff Reid Kelly Crisara www.numurkahleader.net.au Editor Graphic Journalist Cadet/Sport Sales Admin Designer Journalist Published by Jinki Sixteen Pty. Ltd. and printed by Newsprinters Pty Ltd printads@ design@ editorial@ sport@ sales@ printads@ Registered by Australia Post - Print Post publication no. 100002644 leader.net.au leader.net.au leader.net.au leader.net.au leader.net.au leader.net.au NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 — 3

Sweet victory ... RV friendly Numurkah campaigners John Watson, Bruce and Elva Harris and Peter and Diane Hill celebrate council’s decision with a cuppa at one of the endorsed camping sites

People power brings RVs back A COMMUNITY campaign to have Numurk- low cost overnight parking sites in eight smaller conditions a ached to the trial. are in a much younger demographic than those ah recognised as an RV friendly town has borne towns and surrounds throughout the shire, larg- “A maximum of 15 vehicles will be allowed to who have traditionally made up the core group fruit, with the new Moira Shire council unani- er towns, including Numurkah, were le out. be parked on site at any one time; parking of up taking caravan and camping holidays. mously voting to run a two-year free-camping To receive recognition as an RV friendly town to 48 hours only; fully self-contained RVs only John Watson, who was part of Numurkah’s RV trial at its rst meeting last week. by Caravan Motorhome Club of Australia are allowed; no tent camping; and no amenities friendly campaign, said that a racting RV camp- Diane Hill, one of the locals behind the cam- (CMCA), a town must meet a number of crite- will be provided,” he said. ers to Numurkah could be a vital part of increas- paign, said she was absolutely rapt. ria. “We are nalising the details regarding easy ing the local economy post-COVID-19. “It’s a fantastic result for Numurkah, and it’s a  ese include: access to the public dump point at the show- “If you look dispassionately at where you can decision that will bring a lot of new business to • Provision of appropriate parking within the grounds, and those details will be released short- nd a group of people to come and spend money town,” she said. town centre, with access to a general shopping ly. at local retail and service businesses, RV travel- “People in the RV community won’t go to a area for groceries and fresh produce. “Once the conditions and o cial signage have lers are an obvious choice,” he said. place that isn’t designated as RV friendly, be- • Provision of short term, low cost overnight been nalised and installed, Numurkah’s RV “Numurkah is in a unique situation, because it cause they feel unwelcome there. Because Nu- parking (24/48 hours) for self-contained RVs, as Friendly status will commence for the duration isn’t a destination for caravan and RV travellers murkah was known not to be RV friendly, people close as possible to the CBD. of the two year trial.” at the moment, but it is a perfect place to base avoided it, and there has been a lot of potential • Access to potable water. With caravan and RV holidays increasing in yourself to see this part of the state, so you would business driving right past us. • Access to a free dump point at an appropriate popularity year on year, and Australians keen be a racting new people to the town.” “ is campaign was always about pu ing Nu- location. to stretch their legs a er months of restricted Ms Hill, who is a keen RVer herself, agreed that murkah back on the map and bringing money Whilst Numurkah met most of these criteria, movement, and cruising and overseas holidays Numurkah is perfectly located to a ract people into town.” without council being prepared to endorse the o the table for the forseeable future, the timing who pre ered free-camping. In June this year, the campaign group present- provision of one or more o cial overnight park- couldn’t be be er. “We’re about two and a half hours from Mel- ed council with a petition featuring almost 100 ing spaces, CMCA would not provide the town A recent tally of related internet searches bourne, which is about as far as you really want signatures, gathered in just a few days under se- with accreditation. showed that there has been a signi cant increase to drive in a day, unless you’re really pressing to vere COVID restrictions. Council’s two year trial of the scheme in Nu- in searches for terms including ‘trailer’ (up 53%), get somewhere,” she said.  e petition prompted a review of Moira murkah encompasses two sites - the Numurkah ‘camper’ (up 52%), and ‘caravan’ (up 39%), from “We’ve got a beautiful natural environment, good facilities and we’ve got some fantastic re- Shire’s RV Strategy, which was adopted in 2016. Showgrounds and Lions Park - and will com- the rst quarter of 2020. Whilst the strategy outlined an intention to mence as soon as accreditation is received from gional a ractions within an hour’s drive of us. Figures also show that many of those looking “ is is de nitely the type of place you look for endorse and promote Moira Shire as an a rac- CMCA. to invest in an RV or caravan for the rst time tive RV friendly shire and develop RV Friendly Mayor Libro Mustica said there were stringent when you’re on the road.”

Show Us Ya Wheels becomes another COVID casualty YET another casualty of COVID-19. have the volume of people we were expecting,” Show Us Ya Wheels was set to celebrate its Mr Hipwell said. 20th anniversary this coming weekend, but even “We really ran out of time. We did have some Last year ... Rain didn’t it couldn’t run, despite restrictions easing. basic preliminary stu already set up and ready phase the massive crowd at Show Us Ya Wheels has been a major exhibi- to go, and the initial hope was that we’d be able Show Us Ya Wheels 2019. tion which rev-heads from all around the coun- to run a smaller show, but because of all the try have highlighted on their calendar for dec- COVID tracing, it meant there was just too ades now. much work. It comfortably a racts thousands of people every year. It even had 3,500 people turn up last “We were hoping that we’d be the one show year, despite a miserable day marred by persis- that got up this year, but I think time was just tent rain. against us. It’s been a rough trot for the local festival of re- “If our show were maybe three weeks later in stored and enhanced cars, a er the 2017 edition the year, we’d probably have made a di erent de- was also cancelled, due to heavy rainfall. cision. But we hold it when we hold it, otherwise Commi ee member Damien Hipwell was shat- it gets too close to Christmas and it gets too hot, tered that the commi ee had to make the call. so we le it as late as we could, but at some point “It’s pre y disappointing, the whole commit- we just had to make the call.” tee is feeling pre y down about it, there’s no If the Show Us Ya Wheels community’s reac- doubt about that,” he said. tion has been anything to go by, this will only “We had some pre y good cars lined up for make 2021 even bigger than what it might have this year as well, and when you get that calibre already been. of car coming along, it makes it even harder to “We’ll be back next year, bigger and be er and cancel.” With such a big crowd expected at every year’s stronger. event, there were just too many obstacles to “ e public’s reaction was pre y strong when jump over to get it o the ground for 2020, so we announced that we had to cancel it, they were the decision was made last week. all equally disappointed. “It’s not just about the numbers, it’s about “We hate to disappoint them, but it’s great that keeping the four square metre rule as well, and they showed so much support, which we appre- with that in mind, we wouldn’t have been able to ciate.” 4 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 Numurkah’s newest member of police MEET Senior Constable Dean Milani, and it’s something he’s looking forward to. the newest addition to Numurkah’s police “I’m expecting much more community team. engagement policing,” he said. Senior Contable Milani has been here “It’s be er to be part of the communi- for two weeks now, having worked in Sale ty, rather than just to be a response. It’s for the past four and a half years, and for always be er to be proactive, rather than Victoria Police for the past 10. reactive.” Sale’s population is about three times the It’s the excitement of the job’s unpredict- size of Numurkah’s, and a er two weeks, able nature that Senior Constable Milani he has already noticed a friendlier envi- thrives on. ronment in our tight-knit community. “I love that you don’t know what you’re “Everyone’s a lot friendlier here, for going to do every day. sure,” he said. “Some jobs you go to, you might be Senior Constable Milani is renting in expecting one thing, and when you get Kialla currently, but is looking to buy there, it’s the complete opposite to what a house and se le down in Numurkah you thought it was going to be.” Ready to go ... Dean with his wife and kids, within the next 12 He’s also keen to get involved in the com- Milani has got his feet months. munity outside of work. He loves his sport under the desk at While he does have considerable experi- so he’ll be looking to join as many clubs as Numurkah Police Station, ence policing in a country town like Sale, he can to meet new people, and he’s even and is ready to get he’s expecting work in Numurkah to be a quali ed soccer referee, so that’s some- involved in the community. quite di erent, given the di erence in size, thing he wants to pursue here, too. Grant for local parks MOI Shire has been given a $76,000 grant to give various public areas around the region a much needed faceli . Community grants now open Newman Square walkway, o Quinn street, APPLICATIONS are now open for the Moira revised and, instead of o ering both major and sporting club equipment, sound systems, and Numurkah, and the memorial park and toilet Shire Community Strengthening Grants pro- minor grant categories, the decision was made de brillators. block, in Elizabeth Street, Nathalia, are among gram with grants up to $10,000 on o er. to o er increased opportunity to apply for a “Under the environmental sustainability cat- seven di erent spots throughout the Moira CEO Mark Henderson said this grants pro- larger amount of money, up to $10,000, twice egory you can submit applications for projects Shire which will have brand new lighting in- gram aimed to provide funding for art and cul- per annum. that save water, energy or emissions such as the stalled. ture projects, community events, equipment, Mr Henderson said art and culture projects purchase of water saving  xtures and appliances, As part of the Victorian Government’s com- health promotion, environmental sustainabil- or events could include holding skills develop- roo op solar systems and energy e cient heat- munity safety infrastructure grant program, Op- ity, tourism and infrastructure. ment workshops, hosting music or art events ing, cooling and lighting,” Mr Henderson said. eration Luminous will light up parks and public “It is a great way to kick start a community and exhibitions, or workshops with communi- “You can apply online by visiting our website precincts, which have had numerous requests initiative and is a vital function of Moira Shire ty public art outcomes. and, if you require assistance in either planning for maintenance due to vandalism and gra ti. Council,” Mr Henderson said. “Health promotion ideas may comprise pro- your project or completing your application General manager of infrastructure at Moira “ ey help facilitate projects which enrich jects supporting active and healthy lifestyles form, council o cers are here to help. Shire, Andrew Close, says the lights will give the whole community and can assist in the de- or opportunities to educate the community “Applicants are encouraged to read the peace of mind to local residents. velopment of service, management of facilities, about mental health, drug and alcohol issues,” Community Strengthening Grants Guide- “ e lights will activate the areas, increase pas- coordination of events and promotion of tour- he said. lines which include information on eligibility, sive surveillance from passers-by and park/toi- ism, environmental sustainability and health in Previous examples of equipment and in- exclusions and terms and conditions prior to let users, increase community con dence and the community. frastructure projects which have been fund- applying.” deter potential o enders,” Mr Close said.  e policy which provides the framework ed through the Community Strengthening Applications close Wednesday, January 13, “Residents will have a be er sense of safety upon which this program is governed has been Grants program include fencing/bollards, 2021. as they will be able to be er observe their sur- roundings.” Community Update

Community Strengthening plus vPostcard winners announced Christmas office closure – Recovery Grants – apply now Thank you to everyone who entered the vPostcard competition by dates announced sending a digital postcard to family and friends. Do you need funding for an event or to The 2020-21 Christmas/New Year office closure will be improve facilities or services for your local We are delighted to announce our main winners. for the period 2pm on Thursday 24 December 2020 to community? • 1st prize – Wellness Package worth $1,000 at The Sebel Friday 1 January 2021. Then our Strengthening Grants (up to Yarrawonga – Cheryl Thorn. $10,000) are for you in the following streams The offices will reopen onMonday 4 January 2021. • 2nd prize – Spring into Summer Package at the Cobram – arts and culture, community events, Our after hours phone service 5871 9222 will be Barooga Golf Club – Sue Duncan. equipment, environmental sustainability, monitored for any urgent enquiries during this time. health promotion, infrastructure, and • 3rd prize – 2 nights’ accommodation tourism. for 6 at the Wakiti Creek Resort – Perhaps you have an idea to deliver projects Jenni Panos. Ordinary Council Meeting - or programs to assist in recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic? • 4th prize – weekend getaway at RACV December Recovery Grants up to $2,500 are available to help realise Cobram Resort – Deb Chandler. opportunities which support and improve our communities’ health The next ordinary meeting of Council will commence at and wellbeing. • 5th prize – mid-week getaway at 6pm on Wednesday 16 December at the Cobram Civic RACV Cobram Resort – For more details go to our website. Centre. Claire Murphey-Beach. Due to the Emergency Measures Act 2020 this meeting will be closed to the public, however it will be streamed Customer Service Centres – Christmas Gift Guide live via our Facebook page and can be viewed on our opening times update We are thrilled to announce the launch of our Christmas Gift Guide to website. After an extended closure due to COVID-19 restrictions, the support local business during this festive season. Questions from the public must be emailed to Yarrawonga Service Centre has now re-opened. We have been working with Small Business expert Jenn Donovan on [email protected] by 5pm the day prior to the Both the Cobram and Yarrawonga the development of this guide, where meeting and be clearly marked as questions for the Service Centres are now open from 9am you can find Christmas gifts for all your December meeting. until 4.30pm Monday to Friday. family and friends. Please note, the Yarrawonga Service Submitted questions will be read at the designated section Centre closes for lunch each day from Go to our website, click on the link on of the meeting and answered by the appropriate officer or 12pm-1pm. our Home page and browse through all councillor. the local businesses who have come on board for this ‘shop local’ initiative. For more information please give our friendly Customer Service Team a call.

Phone Email Customer Service Call us on 5871 9222 [email protected] Centres 44 Station Street, Cobram NRS Mail 100 Belmore Street, Yarrawonga To report service issues and emergencies 133 677 PO Box 578, Cobram VIC 3643 after hours call (03) 5871 9222. NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 — 5 The show must go on at Strathy Primary IT’S become customary now, have missed out on so much dur- that for nearly any event that is ing 2020 and I was determined to held during this pandemic, a bit  nd a way for them to still be able of creative thinking is required. to perform, even if it does look a Strathmerton Primary School li le di erent!” has done just that with its school ere are around 100 students production, ‘Grannies on the at the school, and every single Loose’, this year. one of them is included in the It has found a clever and unique production, which has made way to both stage it and show rehearsals quite the challenge, it, while still staying well within given that they were learning re- government restrictions on gath- motely for term three. erings. “A lot of our rehearsals that we e whole production was did in term three were done over  lmed, edited and produced as a zoom, so we would have twice movie, and will be shown on a big weekly rehearsals over zoom, projected screen at Strathmerton and then I uploaded videos for Recreation Reserve this Friday at the kids to see what dances they 5pm, and then again at 7pm. had to learn at home,” Miss Olsen Filming on set ... The To watch the production, mem- said. bers of the audience must drive Strathmerton kids all worked hard “When we came back to school to bring the production to life. in to the ground and watch from this term, we’ve just busted our their cars, to ensure social dis- guts to get everyone on the same tancing, and the sound will be page and get it done.” blared out from massive speakers. But despite the obvious chal- School principal Geo Wep- pner says the school had to think lenges that 2020 has thrown up, outside the square, and it did. the Strathy kids were just as com- “Because of the Covid-19 re- mi ed as Miss Olsen was to get strictions, we knew we couldn’t it done. have our usual school production “Our kids are super resilient, in the town hall with a big crowd, and they knew what it should so our music teacher and learning look like from seeing the past specialist, Rachel Olson, decided couple of years, so they didn’t to  gure out a novel way to make want to miss out,” she said. sure the students and parents “Especially our senior kids and didn’t miss out on this highly val- our kids in the main roles, they ued, annual event,” Mr Weppner were so keen to be able to do said. something. Rachel Olson has wri en and “A lot of kids are a bit shy as produced the 2020 production, well, and they don’t necessarily as well as led a group of fabulous like jumping up on stage, so this helpers to make it happen. was a lot easier for them. “It is always such a special part “We’re really happy with how of the year and a wonderful op- it’s turned out, it’s really great. portunity for all of our students We’ve got an excellent editor, Hip hop dancing ... Learning dance moves Mona Alam, one of our teachers to participate in a whole school over zoom wasn’t easy, but the kids nailed it. production,” Miss Olsen said. here, who’s worked really hard on “Our senior students especially it.”

Letters to the Editor

our nation’s history. that support them, I would also ask you to Innocent until? ADF personnel need ey are the  rst people we turn to when please reach out if you need someone to talk to. I BELIEVE the issue of ‘show cause’ notices things get di cult or too big for state author- For all current Australian Defence Force by the government, requiring the S.A.S.R sol- our support ities, such as last summer’s bush res and the members and their families, the Defence All- diers to show why their services should not response do the COVID-19 pandemic. And hours Support Line is a con dential telephone be terminated is a ploy, because it has realised THE last thing Australian Defence Force they keep us safe in an ever-changing world and online service and is available on 1800 628 the di culty, both legal and physical, of per- personnel, their families and our veterans need with peacekeeping missions and involvement 036. haps having to bring tribesmen as witnesses right now is your judgement. ey need our in con icts such as Afghanistan. And for all current and former ADF mem- from Afghanistan; provide them with suitable support. e courage, service and sacri ce of those bers, and their families, Open Arms provides accommodation, security, and innumerable in- In the wake of the release of the Inspec- wearing our nation’s uniform who have done 24-hour free and con dential counselling and terpreters, should these soldiers be charged in tor-General of the Australian Defence Force the right thing must not be de ned or dimin- support on 1800 011 046. Open Arms also has open court. Inquiry into Afghanistan, there has been plenty ished by this small minority. ese are very se- support available through SafeZone and when It appears the onus of proving innocence that of media commentary quick to judge our ser- rious allegations which require thorough inves- you call, it is up to you how much or how li le has been placed on these soldiers is a disgrace vicemen and women. tigation, but all Australians are entitled to the personal information you share. is is availa- and a complete reversal of the requirements of But we can’t allow the alleged actions of a few presumption of innocence. ble on 1800 142 072. our judicial system, namely, that he who alleges people to stain the reputations and the service If you know a serving Australian Defence ank you for your service. must prove. of more than two million Australians who have Force member, or a veteran, please show them Darren Chester MP Dick Ashby done their duty with distinction throughout your support. And if you are a Defence mem- Minister for Veterans’ A airs Numurkah ber, or a veteran, or one of the many families Minister for Defence Personnel Meraki Hair ‘n’ Beauty Introducing Tegan SPECIALTY WE ARE BACK! CU ING Join us for fun and friendship. Gold medallist at World Skills Games Make wooden toys, chairs and kennels to raise funds. with highest score in Men’s hair cutting. Tegan also skilled in spray tanning, Community projects & Shedder’s garden. waxing and tinting. Hours: Monday, Tuesday & Friday 9am to 12noon. SALON OPEN TUESDAY TO SATURDAY Want to know more? Ph: secretary Heather 0459 622 155 Ph: 0448 585 399 Numurkah Men’s Shed, 50 Knox St. Numurkah. 48 Melville St. Numurkah 3636 6 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, December 2, 2020

BarmahWHILST it’s been a year of nasty surprises for all Vic- open for business torians, border communities have been confronted with unique challenges, and has been no exception. With the small community heavily reliant on cross-bor- der tra c, and tourists from across both Victoria and NSW, the social and economic life of the community has taken a major hit in recent months. On July 7, a hard border closure was imposed without notice, with a checkpoint being installed two days lat- er. Since then, until last Monday, the crossing has been manned by police on the NSW side 24 hours a day, with only permit holders being allowed to cross. When the Leader visited last Wednesday, tra c was  owing freely in both directions, and the locals couldn’t have been happier. Barmah Hotel publican Ma Gissing told the Leader it was good to have things ge ing back to normal. “It’s great for people to just be able to come and go as Fully booked ... Barmah publican normal again, although some of the tra c is hi ing the Matt Gissing is happy to be able bridge pre y fast, as if they think the border’s going to to welcome punters from across close on them again,” he said. Mr Gissing said, in terms of business, it wasn’t the state Victoria and NSW back to the pub. border reopening that has had the biggest impact. “We really noticed the biggest uptick in business when the ring of steel came down and people were able to trav- el freely around Victoria again,” he said. “A lot of people headed out to go camping as soon as they were allowed, so we’ve been pre y busy for the past couple of weeks. We have seen a few people starting to come over from the caravan parks on the other side of the border this week though, and there is certainly a lot more tra c and a lot more people  oating around. “We’re fully booked for meals this weekend, we’re just hoping that they don’t close the bush because it’s going to be so hot.” Dino Babu, proprietor of the Barmah Roadhouse, agreed that the town was ge ing a lot more tra c. “It’s a lot be er than before,” he said. “We’ve had people coming for the weekend from every- where between Kyabram and Cobram, and a few from as well.  ere’s lots of trucks coming through again too, because it’s a lot easier for them now. It’s good.” Mr Gissing said that, a er a tough few months, he is hopeful of a busy summer. Healthy traffi c ... Traffi c is fi nally able to fl ow “We had to close for a while, and since we’ve reopened, freely across the Barmah bridge after it being we’ve had to adapt to doing things di erently, but with manned by police 24 hours a day since July. the country opening back up, I think we’ll be alright.”

Respect is choosing not to laugh at jokes that put women down. Respect women. Call it out.

To learn more respectvictoria.vic.gov.au NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 — 7 CFA ready for the long hot summer NUMUR H Fire Brigade “I was interested in helping out is gearing up for a busy  re sea- the community, and this seemed son, with the assistance of new like a good way to do it, because helmets and two new, young re- the  re brigade is so crucial to cruits. community safety,” Aislinn told  e brigade has received the the Leader. new, upgraded structure  re hel- “It’s challenging learning mets for use by members who everything, but it’s interesting as are quali ed to use breathing ap- well and it gives you con dence, paratus, which is o en necessary and I’m really enjoying it. It’s for building  res, or quali ed for been fantastic.” search and rescue operations. With COVID restrictions now Brigade captain Jason Cox said relaxed, the two new recruits the helmets, which look similar are undertaking their practical to a motorcycle helmet, have a training in areas such as truck range of features that make them and equipment familiarisation safer and more user-friendly. and procedure through weekly “ ey o er a lot more protec- sessions at brigade level, as well tion for the neck and the back of as undertaking wri en units on- the head, and they have built in line. visors and safety glasses which When Jason feels they’re ready, are bu on activated, so mem- an independent assessor will bers don’t need to worry about visit to put them through their trying to worry about pu ing paces. New recruits ... Bradley Skidmore and Aislinn Harrison are soaking up basic fi refi ghting skills as Numurkah CFA brigade‘s those things on and o when Jason said it’s great to have newest recruits. they’re wearing their gloves,” he some new blood join the bri- said. gade. “ ey also have provision for “We love ge ing anybody microphones and other features, through the door who wants to which we don’t actually have learn, but it’s especially good to installed at this stage, but could get young people,” he said. prove very useful, if we get them Jason said the advantage of in the future. younger members isn’t just that “We haven’t used the new hel- they are keen to serve in the  eld, mets in a ‘hot’ situation yet, but but they are also quick to learn. it’s good to know that we have “ ey absorb information re- that extra layer of protection.” ally quickly, and they are  exible  e brigade has also been in their thinking because they boosted by the arrival of two new haven’t had a chance to get set recruits; 18 year-olds Aislinn in their ways.  ey’re used to Harrison and Bradley Skidmore. learning as well, and they’re like Aislinn and Bradley are both in sponges; they just soak it all up.” the process of learning the basic “Hopefully, we won’t be too skills that will allow them to gain busy this summer, but it’s good their General Fire ghting certif- to know that, if we are, we have a icate and commence active ser- couple more active members to vice with the brigade. help carry the load.” Ready to roll ... Dale Cox, Tyler Cox and Makayla O’Callaghan are ready for structure fi res in the new helmets. Lions Christmas Cake

A beautiful fruity Lions Christmas Cake, baked to a specifi c recipe specifi cally for Lions Australia. All proceeds from the sale of these cakes will be used by Lions for their Lions Save Sight project and other humanitarian projects, including Childhood Cancer Research and their Mobility Foundation. All homes that intend to have a Christmas cake this year, make yours a Lions Christmas Cake. To order yours contact the Lions State coordinator whose details are on the Lions Website. https://lionsclubs.org.au/activities/products/cakes/

LEAVE NO ONE IN NEED Please donate now SALVATIONARMY.ORG.AU 8 — Numurkahleader, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 Back in business at the golf club NUMURKAH Golf and Bowls come people through the doors Club has finally reopened all of its again. facilities, after being closed for eight “We are very pleased to welcome months. back all members and guests to all At about 3pm on Friday, March areas of the club for full trading 20, the club got a call, telling it to hours, seven days a week,” Mr Mor- physically pack up its furniture and land said. basically shut down. “We’ve also got our raffles and bin- There’s been only minimal golf go going again, so that social aspect and bowls in the eight months of all the services we provide, from since. a community point of view, is avail- The closure of all clubs in Victoria able for all members and guests. was mandated by the State Gov- “People like to come here for ernment, due to COVID-19, and lunch and spend the afternoon Numurkah was one of the many here, so it’s great that they can do casualties. that again.” For a short period before the While the club must still comply JobKeeper supplement was intro- with the one person per 4sqm rule, duced, every single member of staff as well as a venue capacity limit, it is at Numurkah Golf and Bowls Club confident that, being the small club was stood down. that it is, it can cater for its usual With the assistance of JobKeeper, number of customers. the club was able to welcome back a “There will be some subtle differ- bare minimum, skeleton staff to tick ences as our staff ensure compli- things along. ance with our COVID-safe plan, Head groundsman, Matthew the main component of which will Campbell, was forced to work mini- be contact tracing, which requires mal hours out on the course, giving us to record every single person’s at- him just barely enough time to keep tendance at the club, every day,” Mr the fairways under control. He even Morland said. had help from a band of local vol- The club has always taken its com- unteers, just so things didn’t get out mitment to a secure environment of control. very seriously, with a security sub The club was then looking to committee - which is chaired by Mr re-engage the club in late July, be- Morland - meeting regularly. fore Melbourne went back into “We regularly meet with stake- lock-down and those plans were holders including local police to thrown out the window. review our procedures, and part of So it’s been a long road to get here, that is not allowing any person un- but following the Premier’s an- known to staff into the club unless nouncement of restrictions easing they have appropriate photo ID on from November 23, the club has them. been able to open all areas of the “We also have extensive CCTV in- club once again. side and around our clubhouse, so Doors wide open ... Things are as close to normal as what they’ll get at Numurkah Golf and Bowls Club, with all The club’s assistant manager, we know who is, and who has been services returning. Kevin Morland, is thrilled to wel- here,” he said.

EVERYTHING WE’RE DOING IS KEEPING US ON TOP OF THIS VIRUS

Keep our fitted face masks Keep catching Keep washing Keep getting tested if we on when indoors, on public up outdoors. our hands. have any symptoms. transport and when we can’t keep our distance.

Go to CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Victorian Government, Melbourne NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 — 9 Top ranked hairdresser making her mark GE ING your hair cut is all about they weren’t allowed to use clippers at all trust. - just scissors and a comb - so judges had  ere’s nothing worse than feeling a keen eye on how short they were able your  sts clench and your legs tense up to cut the hair with their techniques. in a salon chair because your hairdress- It should come as no surprise that er has just cut far too much o and you Teegan is so skilled at what she does, be- don’t like your haircut. cause she earmarked hairdressing from You’re relaxed in the chair when you a young age, and she’s hunted down op- know you can trust your hairdresser to portunities ever since. nail it every time - which is how it feels “When I was younger, I always wanted to get a haircut from a WorldSkills hair- to help out in salons,” she said. dressing competition winner. “I always used to message people ask- Meraki Hair ‘n’ Beauty on Melville ing them to sweep their  oors. I just Street is now lucky enough to have just wanted to get my foot in the door, and that person as its newest hairdresser. sweeping  oors is what you’ve got to do, Teegan Nunn, 21, competed in October to start with.” of 2019 in the day-long competition at But Teegan knows all too well that cut- regional level, against hundreds of oth- ting hair is about so much more than just er apprentice and quali ed hairdressers, clippers and scissors. and won the whole thing. “You’ve got to have a certain personali- Teegan, who has now worked at Meraki ty to be in this industry,” she said. Hair ‘n’ Beauty for two weeks, will com- “You’ve got to be con dent, speak to pete in the nationals competition at Perth people politely and have good manner- in August, next year, which has been post- isms.” poned twice, due to COVID-19. She’s in her element in the salon. Competitors at the WorldSkills chal- “I love the environment and being able lenge are judged on technique, time to be so creative, because that’s always management and safety, and Teegan was how I’ve been. the best of a talented  eld. “ e most important things to have to “I was nervous, but I kept my cool,” be a good hairdresser are con dence and Teegan said. creativity, but you’ve just got to be able “I was pre y excited to win it.” to get people to stay, really.” Teegan and her competitors had to do And the highly rated, young hairdress- As good as it gets ... Numurkah is lucky to have talented new hairdresser Tegan Nunn right on its door- a ‘short back and sides’ cut on a male, but er will have no issues with that. step. Behold the glory of Numurkah’s night sky TO the naked eye, once the sun goes down the sky above us, on a clear night, is a blanket of black pierced only by what stars the lack of light allows us to see. Magni cent to be sure, but monochrome. Unless, like David Hanvey, you have the right equipment. David took the below image from his mother-in- law Gayle Smith’s back yard in Elm Court Numurk- ah, with the image revealing much more than human eyes alone could ever hope to see. “We can clearly see the Orion constellation from Earth, but we can’t see the whole nebula,” he said. “Where we just see a grey/white whispy formation, a camera a ached to a telescope can see all of the col- ours.” David said he took the image through a standard Canon DSL camera a ached to an eight inch re ec- tive telescope. Whilst he said that neither his camera or telescope are anything special, the mount that the telescope sits on is. “It tracks the movement of the Earth, so you don’t get the movement of the stars creating a blur in the image, and they come out clear instead,” he said. “ is image is actually made up of 20 di erent im- ages layered on top of each other to give as much data as possible for the image.”  e purple area on the right of the image is the Orion nebula, whilst the blue area on the le is the Running Man nebula. “It was a nice clear night, so I started taking the im- age as soon as Orion popped up from behind the tree that’s in the way,” David said. “ e skies out here are beautiful.” We agree. Have historic images like these? Submit them to us at the Leader for our 2021 Calendar. Historic cars, carts and farm machinery with people. Email: [email protected] or bring the orignal in for us to High Res scan.

NumurkahLEADER 88 Melville St Numurkah Ph. 5862 1034 10 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 A CUPPA WITH DOM Full name: Peter Maxwell Cox, OAM (Order of Australia Medal), JP (Justice of the Peace), known as Coxy Age: 73 Marital status: Married to Jenny, with three children - Darren, Jason, who is married to Nena, and Michelle, who is married to Danny - seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren Schools a ended: Numurkah Primary School, Numurkah High School, Shepparton trade schools and the Australian College of Fu- neral Services. Summer or winter? Summer, because I like to get out on the water Beach or mountains? Beach Oscar the Grouch or Cookie Monster? Os- car the Grouch Crunchie or Violet Crumble? Crunchie Elvis or  e Beatles? Elvis AC/DC or INXS? AC/DC Favourite colour? Blue Favourite song? You’re My Best Friend by Queen Favourite TV show? M.A.S.H and Hogan’s Heroes Favourite movie? e Sound of Music Favourite book? Comics and work manuals Do you make lists? Yes What football team do you support? Colling- wood, just to stir others who support other teams; some of my kids defected to the Bombers and the Blues. through a couple of courses and I became a vol- mother because I didn’t want her to worry. But but then that depends too. I’m  ne with human If you could have one talent what would you unteer ambulance o cer instead of just a driver. in those days there used to be a board out the bodies, but animals I’m hopeless. When I did the choose? To be able to get up and speak well o When they went to a two-man station, I was front of the  re station which said which mem- embalming course, some people just couldn’t the cu . o ered the job as a paid employee. I had it all bers had gone to di erent  res, and mum walked cope with it. What type of kid were you? signed and ready to go, but then I decided no, I past and saw it. I was in trouble with her when I I love helping people, and this allows me to do I was very quiet, and I wasn’t into any sports. I loved doing it for nothing and just helping peo- got back, because, even though I hadn’t wanted that, and the other stu just doesn’t really worry just plodded around following my father when ple for free. to worry her, she said if anything did happen, if me. I could. I realise in later years how much I had  at would be very surprising to a lot of she had at least known I was there, it wouldn’t Have you ever had someone request some- learned from him. people; if there’s something you enjoy and have come out of the blue. She was that type of thing for a funeral and you’ve thought ‘no, When you were a kid, what did you want to put a lot of time into, why would you not want lady too, that I knew she’d be worried. that’s a bad idea’? be when you grew up? to get paid for it? People have asked ‘but what if you’re all in the Not really. We have people request to have ser- As a young kid, I wanted to be a jockey because I just like doing things for nothing. I get the same vehicle, and you all get wiped out’ but I just vices in places and they say ‘this is going to be friends of ours had horses, but that didn’t come satisfaction of helping people and that’s worth a think, so be it. We hope it doesn’t happen, we strange, but ...’ and it’s not really strange. We’ve to fruition. I then became an electrical appren- lot for me. don’t want it to happen to anybody, but things done services on the banks of the river, on crick- tice, then I started my own electrical business I’d do a funeral for nothing if I could a ord to. do happen, and if they do, they do. In my mind et pitches, in a shearing shed. before Jenny and I married, and we ran that for What I really enjoy is seeing people’s transition though, I know we are well trained and prepared. We had one where they said they said their dad around 30 years. My son Darren continued with from how they are when we  rst meet them, on How did you go from being an electrician had hated  owers because you couldn’t eat them, that, with my second son Jason working with one of their worst days, to going through the and volunteer ambo to being a funeral direc- so they asked for a wreath of vegetables. When it him for a while. process and starting to deal with it. tor? went down into the crematorium they joked that Who do you admire? When I was an electrician, I used to do a lot of Tu les Funeral Services were good operators he would be having roast vegies that night. My wife Jenny. She has been behind me the work for the shire for nothing. and they wanted to sell, and I wasn’t interested It’s the personalisation that makes a good fu- whole way; she has there with me before we You had three fairly confronting incidents because I enjoyed the ambulance. He sold it to neral, so we never discourage it. were married, behind me through the many on that  rst night helping your dad, wasn’t someone else, and I heard a lot of stories that Funerals don’t have to be serious and sombre. community a airs that I get involved with. ere that daunting? weren’t very good, and people kept telling me How hard have the gathering limits during have been 24 hour call outs for electrical prob- No, it never really fazed me. I didn’t really have to buy them out. We went to the bank and they COVID made it for you to do funerals? lems, call outs as a volunteer ambulance o cer time to think about it, I think. ough, the next laughed at us. I kept hearing more tragic stories, It has made it hard for us to help families in and with the  re brigade, and she was always day I had to go to trade school in Shepp and I until I came home one day and said to Jen ‘that’s the way that we normally would, and it’s been there to back me up, rain, hail or shine. en my cam in late. I apologised for being late and said it, we’re becoming funeral directors’ and we very hard on families. People around here have family are high on that list as well, because they that I’d just been to a fatal accident and they said started our own business. been very good and haven’t tried to push the gave up a lot for me to do those things as well, ‘yeah, we can see, you’re as white as that fridge Jen said that she’d answer the phone and do limits, and we’ve used technology as best we can and I’m very humble and proud that they now over there’. I thought I was okay, but they could the books, but she wasn’t doing anything else. so people can a end remotely. We do know of follow in my footsteps, with Darren in the elec- see it on me. Next thing you know, she’s the second one out funeral directors in other places who have had trical side and with the  re brigade, and Jason as I got called to a fatal accident one night be- the door when we got a call - sometimes she was issues with way too many people turning up, but an ambulance o cer and in the  re brigade as tween a car and a truck, and the doctor arrived even in front of me. that hasn’t happened here. the captain. And our daughter Michelle works in and asked me what was going on and I told him We had started building a new house and we We know a lot of people will be holding me- the funeral o ce. we had two deceased in the car and a couple with decided that we would use it for the funeral di- morial services and wakes at a later date, and that is is multiplied by our grandchildren, and a concussion in the other vehicle. He looked and recting business, and if that didn’t work out we makes sense. partner, in the  re brigade, and helping in the fu- said ‘I can count eight arms’. ere were actually would use it for the electrical business. It’s Cox and Sons Funerals, but only your neral service as well, making it three generations. four deceased. We took them down to Mooroo- 36 years ago I would have laughed at you if you daughter Michelle works here with you. Have You followed your dad into the ambulance pna hospital and then came home and had ba- said I’d be a funeral director, but here we are. you ever considered changing it to Cox and service didn’t you? con and eggs for breakie, and I just never really You went into it somewhat reluctantly; is it Daughter? Yes, in those days there was one ambulance thought about it. di erent to what you thought it would be? When we  rst started, Jen wanted to call it Cox driver in town and he used to work six weeks on I’ve seen a lot of things, especially doing the Yes. I didn’t realise that I could talk to families Family Funerals, but I thought that sounded like and one week o and then if he needed a li , dad coroner’s jobs for over 30 years, but it’s just never the way I do, and just console them. You can help we were going to be burying families, so I said used to go and help. Dad would also help him really a ected me. people a lot just be talking about them and be- ‘no way’. Jen has mentioned a few times that it out on weekends if he needed to do something You’ve had two other generations of Coxes ing a comforting presence. at was something should be Cox and Daughter, but Michelle says else. Dada was also involved with ambulance follow you into the  re brigade; how does I learned when I had the contract with the cor- she would prefer it to stay how it is. Everyone auxiliary and the Goulburn Valley ambulance that feel? oner, picking up bodies. You could really help knows it as Cox and Sons now, and she thinks commi ee in Shepp. It’s a great feeling. I thought it was good when people that way, and I realised I could do that as a changing it would be bad for business. en one night the ambo got crook and they Darren joined, and then Jason came next and funeral director. ere’s a lot more to it than just You were awarded a Medal of the Order of rang dad and asked if dad could  ll in for him that was even be er. en Jason’s son Dale joined organising and running funerals; you are work- Australia last year, how did that feel? overnight. en he got a call out because some- and then his brother Tyler, and now Dale’s part- ing with people that need someone in that time. It’s a great honour, but I didn’t really think I’d one had overdosed and he asked me to come ner Makayla. It’s wonderful. One time there was Does it ever wear you down? done anything special. Before the presentation, with him because he might need a driver. I was a  re and it was all Coxes who turned up. It can wear you down, because you’re dealing all of the people who were ge ing honoured about 19 at that stage, and we just got back from It’s a really warm feeling to know that there is with people during really hard times, and you were talking in the waiting room and we all said that and somebody had a heart a ack, so o we something we can all do together. I was never re- have to have time away, but we talk to other di- we didn’t do the things we did for recognition, went again, and about eight hours a er that there ally into sport, and Jen used to take Jason to foot- rectors who have the same experiences, and that we just liked helping people. But I thought all was a fatal accident, so I drove him to that as well. ball because I was always with the ambulance or helps. of the things they’d all done deserved recogni- at was in 1966, and I became a volunteer am- doing community work, but I always wanted to You’ve lived in the same house for your en- tion, so I suppose I can understand other people bulance driver a er that and, between the ambu- be close to my kids and do things together, and tire life; have you ever been tempted to move? thinking the things I’ve done deserve recogni- lance and  re brigade, I’ve been driving for the that’s what this gives us. No, I like it here. I say we have the parlour here tion, even if I don’t emergency services ever since. Does it worry you to have your sons and too so that when I die, they just have to wheel me What one issue do you feel humankind I already knew some  rst aid because mum grandsons at a  re? from there to here. needs to resolve to ensure a positive future? and dad used to run  rst aid courses here at the No. I always know there is a risk, but they are Does it take a particular type of person to do Everyone needs to try and get on be er. Fami- house and I was their guinea pig, so I had a bit well-trained. When Ash Wednesday happened, this work? ly violence is a real issue that needs to be tackled; of an idea. en the ambulance service put me I went down to Warburton, but I didn’t tell my I suppose you need to have a strong stomach, if that could be eradicated, it would be fantastic. NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 — 11 Miniature train track ready to use MOI Miniature Rails has just  nished building its permanent new track at Wungh- nu. It takes about 10 minutes to  nish the whole ride around the new 1.2 kilometre track at Wunghnu Recreation Reserve.  e group, which is made up of 20 mem- bers, was formed 12 years ago now. For the  rst 10 years, members of the Moira Minia- ture Rails would go around to farmer’s mar- kets and spring shows with portable tracks and set up for the day, where they would o en get over 600 riders. This week in 1920 ... But for the past four years, the team has To celebrate the State Library of Victoria’s been working away at creating this permanent digitising of the war years editions of the Numurkah track, which is now operational. Leader, each week we will include the news of the But secretary of the club, Alan Bridges, week, 100 years ago. doesn’t expect it will be used until about Feb- To view these editions online go to trove.nla.gov. ruary next year. By then, the harshest summer au/ndp/del/title/591. days will be behind us, so people won’t be out Libel Action Settled. A libel action in which two in the blazing heat. hotel keepers were the principals, vis., Mr Darcy of Co- It will also give the club some time to put bram (plaintiff) and Mr D. Ross, of (defend- No lifting here ... Hydraulic rams some  nishing touches still required around ant) caused considerable interest during the football the track, like station awnings and shelter. lift the traverser to any height. season, the former going so far as to start proceedings Like everything this year, COVID-19 has against Mr Ross over an alleged statement made after made miniature train rides impossible, so with a match between the Cobram and Tocumwal teams no income for eight months now, the club has being played at Cobram, the figure stated as damages been relying on grants from Moira Shire and being £500. Defendant, who was represented by Mr J. Bank to keep its head above water. Brice Beard, had decided to defend the action, and with  e group is made up of mechanically his witnesses was ready to proceed to Melbourne when minded people who are passionate about  t- the case came on for hearing. Defendant’s solicitor, how- ting and turning. ever, received advice last week that the case had been “We like playing with trains and mechanical withdrawn by the plaintiff, the latter to pay defendant’s devices,” Mr Bridges said. costs. Tocumwal “Guardian” “One member is a keen tractor restorer, one has a bunch of old stationary engines, and PATERSON’S CURSE everybody is mechanically inclined.” Travellers up the rich Upper Murray, just now famous  e main reason they love it, though, is put- for its heavily-grassed runs, are greatly impressed with ting smiles on the faces of kids and families. the efflorescence of Paterson’s Curse. From a point “We just love running the trains for the kids known as Cumberoona Hill, the miles of beautiful and families, and we’ve really missed it for the country unfolded will be submerged when the Mit- past eight months. ta weir (started in earnest three weeks ago) becomes “It’s community orientated, and besides an an accomplished fact, and the royal purple hue of the excuse for a bunch of old men and women to Testing it out ... The dense blossoms now give it the appearance of the sea. A play with trains, we just love, and we miss, all rake of three carriages few miles nearer Albury, and the traveller is nearing the the excitement of the kids in the trains, and all joined up, heading home of Paterson’s Curse. their parents too. north on the track. But the landholders hereabout do not regard it as a “Some people borrow kids for the day just curse. They are now cutting it in some places for silage. so they’ve got an excuse to go for a ride.” Sheep and cattle are everywhere fattened on the weed, and the best proof of its value is indicated by the high price paid recently for a farm of several hundred acres, the major portion of the land being overrun with Pater- son’s Curse. The vendor, having saved several hundred Visitors the weed on his place, has called it “Paterson’s Blessing.” Owing to the prolific season, the weed is spreading welcomed back Rain won’t like a bushfire, and it and it requires but few seasons like the present, when one might expect to see the greater portion of the state infested if shire councils do not take to NCN Health more vigorous action to eradicate the advance guard NCN Health is welcoming visitors back to its plants. The infested country around Bowa is quaran- stop the fi res tined by the Hume Shire Council, thus affording relief hospital and residential aged care facilities, in line with directions from the Department of Health IT’S going to be wet this summer, but that While the risk of bush  res isn’t as high as to landowners from the noxious weed regulations as far and Human Services. (DHHS) doesn’t necessarily mean there’ll be any last summer;  res will occur, according to as this particular plant is concerned. Some argue that the  e Victorian Government and the DHHS shortage of  res. Dr Watkins. weed is not noxious, and whilst they admit the land is announced restrictions for health care facilities Australia and Victoria can expect a we er “ ere’s a great chance of grass  res in better without the weed than with it,yet they apparently would be eased from midnight on November 22. summer than usual, but bush and grass  res some areas, as recent rain and warm weather do nothing to prevent it spreading.  ere are now no limits on the number of visi- may still be prominent, according to the have led to vigorous vegetation growth,” he On the otter hand, several vouch that a certain land- tors to patients or residents, or restrictions on the Bureau of Meteorology’s Summer Climate said. holder has actually sent as far away as Queensland to reason for visiting. Outlook released last week. “South eastern Australia is one of the most procure seed of Paterson’s Curse to sow, as he cannot get Visitors do not have to be socially distanced  e outlook for summer has been issued  re-prone regions in the world. Even short it to spread quickly enough to his property. when inside the patient or resident’s private as Australia continues to experience an ac- periods of hot and dry weather will increase room, however, they must observe social distanc- tive La Niña event which is expected to re- the risk of  re in summer.” NATHALIA ing rules when in communal spaces or shared main until at least the start of autumn.  e outlook is also a reminder for commu- On Wednesday last a number of farmers interested rooms.  e bureau’s Head of Operational Cli- nities to be prepared for heat waves over the in the Goulburn levee scheme, more particularly those Residents can also now leave their care facility mate Services, Dr Andrew Watkins, expects coming months. subject to inundation from the breaks in the bank at for any reason, provided they comply with cur- large parts of eastern Australia to have an in- “Every summer we see heat waves across Loch Garry, met Mr A. S. Kenyon, an engineer of the rent restrictions applicable to all Victorians. creased risk of  ooding. southern Australia.  is summer, heat waves Water Supply Commission at Loch Garry. Among NCN Health CEO Jacque Phillips said the new “While the last three weeks have been dry may not reach the extreme temperatures of those to attend were Cr. W. A. Campbell, who said directions were fantastic news for patients, resi- in many parts of the country – due in part to recent years, but may be longer in duration he was representing the President of the Shire (Cr. H. dents and their families, especially ahead of the unfavourable tropical weather pa erns – this and more humid, which can still have a sig- Dudley), Com. E. Cope (Water Trust), Mr Hay Ower Christmas season. does not signal a weakening of La Niña,” he ni cant impact on human health,” Dr Wat- (engineer) Mr H. Bullen (Melbourne), and some 20 Ms Phillips said NCN Health sta were working said. kins said. local residents. A visit was made to the breaks, it was to implement the changes this week and co-ordi- “Our climate outlook is the opposite of “Daytime temperatures in summer are found that not only were the levees washed away, but nate visiting hours across the three campuses. what we experienced last year in Australia. likely to be near average, but there will be many chains of the original bank of the river had disap- “We ask the community for patience as our sta  is summer, New South Wales, Victo- periods of high heat combined with milder peared, and there was every indication that unless steps work with residents, patients and their families to ria and Queensland are all expected to see periods. were taken either at the banks or at the boundary of the ensure they are informed of the updated direc- above average rainfall, meaning we face an “It’s important to keep up to date with the Loch to prevent it, the river would soon make a new tions. If you are planning on visiting a loved one increased risk of widespread  oods.” bureau’s heatwave service.” channel through the farms of and . this week, it is a good idea to call ahead  rst,” she The banks of the lake on the northern side showed said. that this devastation had already begun. On returning Ms Phillips said there are still a number of re- to the homestead, an informal meeting was held, when strictions in place for visitors. Mr Kenyon stated it was his opinion that the best job “Visitors to the hospital and residential aged Find us on would be to put a levee round the lake, though the water care must be screened upon entry, visitors over could be stopped at the river banks to the satisfaction of 12 years-old must wear a mask, sanitize their an engineer. He said the work, providing also for a con- hands and practice social distancing in commu- crete washover at the Deep Creek, would probably cost nal areas.” from £7000 to £8000. On the motion of Mr Paterson, a Ms Phillips said NCN Health was also excited facebook.com/NumurkahLeader/ resolution was agreed to that all present were in favor of to welcome volunteers back in the coming weeks Numurkah a levee round the lake to protect the land from a 31 feet and months. @NumurkahLeader LEADER flood - Mr Kenyon agreed to submit a plan and report For more information contact NCN Health on the cost of the scheme at as early a date as possible. CEO Jacque Phillips on 5862 0555 12 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 NumurkahLEADER

PUBLIC SITUATIONS FOR SALE NOTICES VACANT SITUATIONS VACANT SITUATIONS VACANT NOTIFICATION Two Seater Recliner & BY BUYER — Milking PIZZA SHOP INTENTION TO 2 recliner chairs APPLY FOR THE Position PART TIME STAFF Paid $1799 Selling for $1299 PERMANENT Available TRANSFER OF 5km from Numurkah, WANTED ONO Experience not BUS OPERATIONS MANAGER A LICENCE TO Front of house Ph: 5862 3761 TAKE AND USE essential, Full Time GROUNDWATER Phone 0447 641 111 Tuesday - Sunday 3-4 hours a day Please leave message. St Mary of the Angels Secondary College is currently seeking GMW Reference for all enquiries. a suitably qualified individual to manage the daily operation 4:30pm start No. BPTWE0034-20 of our Bus fleet. We, Harisito PUBLIC Contact 0439 118 581 Pty Ltd of 648 St Mary of the Angels Secondary College Bus Operations has a PUBLIC NOTICES Reynoldsons Road, NOTICES modern fleet of 10 buses which ferry 498 of our 628 students STRATHMERTON to and from school each day. VIC 3641, refer Our Bus Operations prides itself on providing a safe, reliable REAL. CUSTOM. SHEDS. to Vic Roads Map and modern fleet for the students and families in our care. 22 J9 intend to SHOP LOCALLY The successful applicant will be located at the Bus Depot and Looking for a custom built shed... make application to WINNERS Give Telfords a call today. permanently transfer Workshop in Nathalia and will be respsonsible for coordinating entitlement to our Colleen O’Hara all aspects of the daily operations of the fleet . NCN Health has the following existing Licence Magic Mirror Salon $50.00 towards salon St Mary of the Angels Nathalia is a Catholic Co-educational vacancies: to Take & Use service or products Secondary College that is committed to exploring and Groundwater and embracing the Franciscan values of inclusivity, social justice and increase the licensed right relationship with creation. Occupational volume from 150ML/ Catherine Smith Adventure Awaits Shepparton (Head Office) Year to 465ML/Year. Therapist Grade 1 or 2 We intend to extract $50.00 voucher for instore Applications should include: (03) 5821 4399 purchases. • A cover letter Cobram Campus telfords.com.au groundwater from • Curriculum Vitae, including three professional referees. existing bores. Judy Newman Up to 1.0 EFT - Part Time or Full Time The water will be Vive Hair and Beauty Temporary until 31st December 2021 used for the purpose $50.00 towards facial and Role Description can be obtained from : www.smotanathalia.catholic.edu.au/about/employment (Maternity Leave replacement) of Irrigation. nail treatments. To be used on lands Applications to be emailed to: described as: [email protected] Physiotherapist Volume 8941 Folio Erin Boxtel Café Mierlo Application closing date: Monday 7th December, 2020 878 Crown Allotment A $50.00 voucher for Grade 1 or 2 157 Section S Parish The Board Chair, Dale Brooks, takeaway, dine in or Numurkah Campus Strathmerton, coffees & the Board of Directors Volume 9992 Folio St Mary of the Angels community promotes the safety, 1.0 EFT - Full Time Temporary until invites you to our 479 Lot No. 1 Plan Maria Kempton wellbeing and inclusion of all children. 8th October 2021 No. 673756W, Plan Murray Goulburn Annual General Type TP; Volume Trading Podiatrist Grade 2 10497 Folio 801, $50.00 voucher towards Meeting Lot No. 1, Plan No. in store purchases Cobram Campus 545547X, Plan Type to be held on St. Joseph’s Primary School 0.6 - 1.0 EFT – Full Time / Part Time TP. Mary Coad Numurkah Permanent Wednesday, 16th December, 2020 Any person able Tweaked at 12.30pm via Live Stream to demonstrate Performance that their interests $50.00 toward in store District Nurse - https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83082881139 will be affected by purchases or a service. the transfer of this Enrolled Nurse Level 3 Licence including Joan Clonan Numurkah Campus any intended Numurkah Home groundwater use, is Hardware and 0.6 EFT - Part Time Temporary until invited to make a Timber Vacation Care Program 31st December 2021 ADVERTISING formal submission $50.00 towards in store DEADLINES setting out the purchases Educator Position 2021 Visit our website for further nature of the impact The program commences 5th January information including position Classifi ed Line Ads: within 14 days of Jake Hodgkin receipt of this written Murray Valley Rural 2021 running on a Tuesday, Wednesday & descriptions, contact details, closing 12 noon Tuesday notifi cation. and Plumbing Thursday for 3 weeks. dates and the application process. $50.00 voucher towards Hours are 8am to 4.30pm Display Ads: To make a www.ncnhealth.org.au submission, please in store purchases. The successful applicant will have or be Bookings by read the information willing to acquire a: 12 noon Monday available to download Beverley Wain from https://www.g- McPherson’s • A minimum Cert III in Children’s Services ( FUNERAL DIRECTORS Ph: 5862 1034 mwater.com.au/ Numurkah or equivalent ) or currently enrolled in this 88 Melville St Numurkah customer-services/ $50.00 voucher for in course (University Education Students are forms (or contact store men’s and baby encouraged to apply) wear G-MW to arrange for • Current Working with Children Check a copy to be posted to Peter Cox & Sons FUNERAL NOTICES you). David Hack • Current First Aide Certifi cate Funeral Directors P/L Submissions must JSI Automotive Cnr Meiklejohn and Quinn Sts., Numurkah be lodged in writing $50.00 voucher towards • Knowledge of Child Care Legislation using the template car or air-conditioner including National Safety Standards CARING, PROFESSIONAL SERVICE, COLE — Adrian “Ice” available by either • Commitment to Child Safety TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS mail or email to Don’t miss A memorial for Adrian “Ice” Cole to be held Customer Support Numurkah specials, Basic duties: Phone 5862 3047 at the Shamrock Hotel Numurkah Sunday, Coordinator, Wednesday • To assist the Program Co-ordinator 24 hours – 7 days a week December 6, 2020 from 11.00 a.m. Licensing December 2 implement the program Administration, PO Finger food provided. Sponsored by Box 165, TATURA Numurkah LOL • To supervise the children whilst delivering Those wishing to have a large meal are VIC 3616 or email an engaging program that is safe, inclusive welcome to buy from the venue. From licensingadmin@g- and most importantly fun! TUTTLES mwater.com.au. 12.00 p.m. sharing of Adrian’s life stories Written applications including the names of at — FUNERAL SERVICES — and achievements. An informal day for least two referees to: Phone 1300 858 333 remembering, and smiles of a cheeky bloke Mr. Paul Arnel - Principal Caring 24 hour service with a good heart and upright nature. St. Joseph’s Primary School Due to Covid restrictions, bookings are Winners, collect 16 Tocumwal Rd. Inc. Binger & Tuttle, Limbrick & Tuttle, your voucher at Numurkah 3636 essential preferably with groups - numbers Numurkah Leader Numurkah Funeral Services capped at 150. Please contact the Shamrock Phone: (03) 5862 1804 POSTER offi ce. [email protected] Hotel Numurkah. Phone: (03) 5862 1006. LAMINATING Mon-Fri Due to limitations, we ask partners and SERVICE 8.30am to 5pm Closing Date for Applications TROPHIES & ENGRAVING children not attend where possible. 88 Melville Street Friday, December 11, 2020 NUMURKAH LEADER NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 — 13 NumurkahLEADER David laps up perfect conditions THE weather last Tuesday was as good as it gets for playing croquet, much to the delight and enjoyment of the Numurkah golf croquet social Great score ... Club players. stalwart and life member From the 12 games played, eight  nished with Lois Lowe scored 25 ANNIVERSARIES THANKS a score of 7-6, an indication of just how even the hoops last Tuesday to competition is. win the hoops tally at David Geddes was the only player to win three Numurkah croquet. HALDEN Pearl. games, with a total of 3/21, and all three games Darryl, Karen and were won 7-6. Seven players  nished the day families would like winning two games, but luckily for David his to thank everyone win in the third game won him the day. for the cards, owers Four of the two game winners  nished with a and expressions of hoop score be er than 21. sympathy on the Lois Lowe topped the list of the two game passing of Pearl. We winners,  nishing runner-up for the day with an would like to thank excellent losing score of 2/25. those involved in her  e great weather obviously had some e ect Diamond care over the years. Wedding A special thanks to on accuracy, as a record six hoops-in-one were all at Barow for their recorded. Heather Brown topped the list with Anniversary two, Sue Edis, Kevin Hansen, Rhonda Geddes Dennis and Elsie wonderful care and kindness. Please accept and Ian Londey all scored one. Caughey Seven successful jumps were played, two each are celebrating their this as our personal thanks. by Lois Lowe and Lyn Hughes, and one by Lyn Diamond 60 years Stokes - who was le completely speechless wedding anniversary. when she realised the ball went through the Married in Numurkah hoop - as well as Rhonda Geddes and Kevin Methodist Church Hansen. 3.12.1960. MEETINGS  e  nal matches of the association pennant Many happy years season are being played today, and the  nal will together. be played next Wednesday between the two teams that  nished top of the ladder a er today’s Numurkah play. FUNERAL Numurkah’s association team lost to Sheppar- DIRECTORS Men’s Shed ton last Wednesday. Jennifer Sprunt and Tricia AGM Newman won their doubles 9-6, and Cheryl O’Dwyer had another good singles win, scoring and Len Pell 18-11. Room opening. Numurkah will play Mooroopna at Mooroop- Friday December na today, in its last match for this season. 11 from 10am  e  nal matches of the golf croquet pennant Join us for a BBQ season were played last week. Numurkah Blue afterwards. was si ing third on the ladder, and needed to win against fourth-placed Shepparton to make it 50 Knox St FUNE LS to the  nals. It was a close tussle all day but Blue Numurkah was unable to win enough games to clinch a win. Professional service ------Six of the eight singles went to the last hoop, and chapel This Advertisment but Blue only managed to win two of the six, at a ordable prices is sponsored by making the score a er the singles 49 hoops all, GrainCorp Oilseeds but with Blue down three games to  ve. but only managed to win four games. Final  e knockout golf croquet pennant  nal be- 5862 2332 Numurkah Blue needed to win three of the four doubles IVAN NEWBY to have a chance of winning the match, but a er scores were Shepparton 8/75 to Numurkah tween Shepparton & Rich River Kangas will be losing the  rst two doubles, the opportunity to Blue 4/69. played at Numurkah tomorrow.  e winner will PETER K KE play  nals was over. Numurkah White was unable to  eld a team then play top of the ladder team /Moama NUMURKAH LEADER Blue  nished the match only six hoops down last Friday and forfeited to Echuca/Moama. the following  ursday.

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by “The Shankster” heat, and then a strong northerly BevWEATHER conditions expe- wind blowinga up around midclear- winner rienced by Numurkah women day. golfers couldn’t have proved any Tracey’s round consisted of further apart on the comfort 11 pars and a birdie on the 14th scale than they did over the past hole, giving her a winning score week, with perfect conditions of 37 stableford points. last Wednesday and extreme A three-way countback was heat on Saturday. needed to decide the runner-up, Bev McIntosh played a beau- Julie Hannaford topping the trio tiful round of golf to win last on 35 points, ahead of Rosemary Wednesday’s stroke round, fin- Rutledge and Pauline Davies. ishing with a lovely 69 nett, five Margot McGrath secured the shots clear of the next best score last of the balls with 34 points, returned for the day. Her near on a two-way countback. faultless round included eight Merren Carr had the best score pars and a birdie on the 17th of the day in last Thursday’s hole. chick run, finishing her nine hole Bev took out division one round with 17 points, while a ahead of Tracey Clouston on 74 number of players finished with nett. 16 points to win division two. Sue Herlihy recorded another Shirley Wellman continued her win, despite being nicknamed good comeback to golf by taking Woody for the number of trees home another runner-up ball. she hit, taking out division two Jeanette Adams and Nola Dalton with 74 nett. Lauris Ashton won shared the honours in division a countback on 76 nett to be one, with 16 points each. named runner-up. Today’s golf will be a stableford Balls went to Helen Schmed- event, with a draw for partners. je, with 75 nett, Lorraine Craig, This will be followed by the Julie Daniel and Bev Hutchins, presentation of the few women’s all with 76s, and Jeanette Adams annual trophies that were actual- took home the last of the balls ly played for in the strange year with 77 nett. that was 2020. The women’s golf Tracey Clouston went one step annual general meeting will then better than Wednesday’s result, be held, at approximately 2pm. on Saturday, notching up a two Saturday will be a Numurkah shot win in extremely difficult Leader/R. & K. Smith monthly conditions, when most district medal round, and next Wednes- sport was called off due to the day will also be a monthly medal Bright spark ... Bev McIntosh played a terrific round of golf last Wednesday, to win the day’s event.

Cool as a cucumber ... Geoff Stone tees off on Saturday morning on his way to a winning Par for the course ... Playing off a handicap of four, Sam Robertson parred the Numurkah score of 39 points. golf course last Thursday. Stoney solid in the heat Sam hits his target by “Archie Bunker” ahead of Joshua Scott, Ryan Sprunt, Peter Malins, by “Rufus T. Firefly” Bryant, Bill Padgett, Willie Mason, Graham ON what has certainly been the hottest day for Steve Piggott and James Pruden, all on 35 points, SAM Robertson reached a personal goal last Ashton, Hugh Gunn and Frank Houlihan all 35, golf so far this summer on Saturday, the Numur- while the last of the balls went to Allan Newby, Thursday that he revealed to Rufus only the week Bill Green 34. kah Golf Club’s heat rule came into effect, and Rob Sutton, Neil Hutchins, Sam Robertson and before: he dearly wanted to par the course. Scor- Andy McKeown finished with the lowest players were all required to hit off before 10am. Steve Thornton, all with 34 points. ing 40 stableford points off a handicap of four, Sam point score of the field, a lousy 24 points. For his Despite the heat, there was still a good field of The preliminary rounds of the six week chal- did indeed reach his target and he also took out under achievement, Andrew earned the tin of 54 men out on the course, trying to get in before lenge concluded on Saturday, with NFC Blues A-grade honors for the mid-week competition. boiled lollies awarded to those who come last! the mercury hit its forecast 44ºC. and Q&A finishing atop the ladder. These two Runner-up to Sam was Neville Smith, who re- Alan Rogers earned the Mickey Mouse ears Geoff Stone hit off before 9am and played teams will play off in the final this Saturday. turned with a healthy total of 38 points. for complaining to club pro Anthony Sanders steady golf from start to finish, impressing his Captain Ron Smith’s Q&A was lucky to make B-grade honors went to Ron Robinson who that, by wearing a golf glove, he was unable to playing partners as he made his way to a score the final, drawing with Triple J &MBD, on 134 scored a massive 42 stableford points to both see his knuckles for the stronger grip Anthony of 39 points, which was good enough to see him points. Col Stone’s Heroes did themselves out of take the winner’s voucher, and also lower his recommended in a private lesson given to him win the B-grade event. a berth when they had the double chance, going handicap by a considerable amount. the week before. Geoff’s playing partner Bruce Collins finished down to the NFC Blues 128-134, and the Do- Smooth swinging Sid Roughsedge was run- John Bauerle was the lucky winner of the play- runner-up in B-grade, with a score of 36 points. nations, 128-145. Nola Dalton’s Witches man- ner-up to Ron, and rounded out the grade win- ers’ raffle. Had Bruce been in A-grade, his score may have aged another win, when the Juggernauts failed ners with a strong finishing total of 39 points. Visitors and guests are most welcome to play been good enough to take the top prize, as that to field four players. In a field of 53 players, the following individu- in our mid-week competition, but this week it was the same score that Mark Hegarty finished The individual ladder saw a tie between Sam als returned point scores that won them a club is important that a start time is allocated on the with, to win, finishing one point ahead of Paul Robertson and Bruce Collins, who overtook ball: Alf Patman, Alan Newby, Ian Hannaford time sheet by visiting the club website at www. Collins, on 35. chief organiser Garry Hosie in the final round. and Steve Thornton, all 38, Alan Dalton 37, ngbc.com.au or contacting club professional Jack Hepworth also finished with 36 points, but This Saturday’s golf will be a Compusult Graeme Sprunt and Steve Jones 36, Dudley Anthony Sanders on 5862 3445. was relegated to the top of the ball winners’ list, monthly medal round. Numurkahleader, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 — 15 Barooga too good for MixedNUMURKAH Golf’s midweek bowls teams fortunes Numurkah suffered mixed fortunes on Friday, with the Ones going down but the division twos taking a good win. bowlsNUMURKAH Bowls Club could not get The Twos hosted Tocumwal Golf and out- on the winners list in last Friday’s pennant bowled their opponents, taking victory 56-50. games. Kaye Hocking, Ian Hocking, Julie Hanna- Playing at home, division two fared the ford and Ian Clark won 23-15, Helen Eddy, best of the two teams, going down by four Jack Dell, Lorraine Milner and John Pickers- shots to Barooga in a very good effort, gill just went down, 17-21, while Marie Ryan, with the losing rinks only losing by small Allan Newby, Karen Nordbye and Moira margins. Blake won 16-14. Sue Shaw (s), Geoff Shaw, Lillian Night- The division one side did not fare so well in ingale and Liz Rees did best, winning 27- the searing heat, losing to Tocumwal 37-65 on 25, to give them the Telegraph Hotel best the Tocumwal greens, which were very diffi- winning rink award; Lyn Cline (s), Phil cult to handle. Perkins, Lorraine Kennedy and Kerrie Robyn Hodgkin, Des Staggard, Butch Wellman lost by two shots, and Merryn Browning and Katrina Glover played the clos- Carr (s), Shani Davie, Viv Morris and Kay est match, going down to the in-form Judy Moodie lost 24-20. Harvie rink, 16-19. Loris Houlihan, Yvonne Division one travelled to Cobram and Clark, Frank Houlihan and Maree Luci were was defeated by 12 shots with only one given a bowling lesson from the Leigh Hansen rink up. rink, 8-24, and Lidija Patching, Jan Niven, Linda Isted (s), Ron Pickersgill, Ross Jenny Sutcliffe and Lyn Browning lost to Jill Higgins and Robyn Gilmour won 19-12; Whiteside 13-22. Ann Dealy (s), Peter Dealy, Jenny Stuart Club championship rounds continue and and Robyn Aumann could not maintain the semi finals will see Loris Houlihan play their winning streak, going down by two Katrina Glover and Lidija Patching will play shots, while Pam Smith (s), Jim Cline, Robyn Hodgkin. Taylor Hill and Jenny Rogers found it Numurkah Golf held its Graincorp spon- tough going towards the end, after being sored trade day last Wednesday. The winner in touch earlier in the game. was a Cobram team and runner-up, Nathalia. In women’s club events, the 100 up is The state pairs championships will com- nearing completion. Linda Isted defeat- mence this Sunday at Numurkah Town greens. ed Liz Rees in a close semi final, and now Friday’s pennant teams: awaits the winner from the Robyn Au- Division one - at home to Numurkah. mann and Pam Smith semi final. H. Eddy, H. Pickersgill, J. Pickersgill, J. Con- Early rounds of the women’s club cham- nelly; M. Ryan, G. Parkinson, L. Milner, M. pionship have also been played. Blake; K. Hocking, I. Hocking, J. Hannaford, In the men’s club championship, the I. Clark. Duty rink: M. Ryan. semi finalists are Don Staggard to play Division two - at home to Cobram. Alan Clark, and John Wright to play Peter J. Niven, L. Patching, J. Sutcliffe, B. Brown- Dealy. ing; R. Hodgkin, D. Staggard, L. Browning, K. All Saturday pennant was abandoned un- Glover; L. Houlihan, Y. Clark, F. Houlihan, M. der the extreme heat rule. Luci. Great shot ... Lorraine Milner puts a bowl close to the kitty during last Wednesday’s trade day at Numurkah Golf. Warriors beat the heat, and opponents by “Mel Ting” THE GM1 Numurkah Warriors were the only Nu- murkah Lawn team in action on Saturday, and contin- ued their unbeaten run, with a five games victory over Bendigo South. As the warm conditions triggered the GMLTA heat rule once again, with all grades being affected, the only reason the Warriors played at all was because they made the long journey to Bendigo, where the mercury unbelievably only got to 32ºC. The Numurkah outfit took on the new kids on the block, Bendigo South, and it was nip and tuck all day, with very little separating the two teams. The home team drew first blood when Warriors skipper Nick Fenaughty lowered his colours 6-8 in his singles match, which does not happen very often, so he must have come up against a very good opponent. Aaron Niglia also went down, losing 4-8, and it was starting to look ominous for the undefeated Warriors, but Mud Dogs captain Mark Mills, who was on fill in duties once again, stepped up to right the ship some- what with a solid 8-3 win. Ashley Andrews, who has been starring for the War- riors, kept up her impressive form with a hard fought 8-5 win in her singles, and then partnered youngster Alanna Birch to a solid 8-3 doubles triumph. Bendigo South hit back, however, winning both men’s doubles matches and the second ladies’ singles set to hold a slender one game advantage with just the two mixed sets to play. Ash Andrews and Harley McCarthy really knuckled down to grind out an 8-4 doubles victory in their en- counter and, when Mark Mills and Alanna Birch snuck home 8-6, the Warriors were five games in front at the end of the day, winning 6/66 to Bendigo South’s 5/61. Andrews again showed her class, not dropping a set, but it was another good all round team effort which sees the Warriors atop the ladder and unbeaten after four games. This week they are back on home soil where they will take on the Shepp Bulls. With Saturday’s predicted temperature to be 35ºC, hopefully all teams will be in action again. The Raiders will travel to Kialla, while the Mud Dogs play Bendigo South at Mooroopna, and the Penguins and Ravens will join them at that venue, as they both play Moo- roopna teams. Young talent ... Alanna Birch played a big part in the Warriors’ win at Bendigo on the weekend. 16 — NumurkahLEADER, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 NumurkahLEADER

Stays a panther ... Michael Eckard will play his second season as a Cobram Panel Works Panther after being retained ahead of the draft.

Eckard retained in GVBBL

NUMUR H Youth Club Cricket players across Australia. Adam De Cicco from Cobram and tained by the Hurley’s Hotel Hounds, Brendans was snared at pick two, and Club coach and ba ing all-rounder  ey can then put up to an addition- three others. and Corey Hickford, also from Katan- Katandra opener Ben Clurey was tak- Michael Eckard has been retained on al nine ‘marquee’ signings on their “ ey made it a lot easier for me by dra, was retained by the Jarvis Dela- en at pick 12. CPS Panthers’ list ahead of the second lists, with however much money they retaining me, because then I didn’t hey Crushers, along with Katamatite Former BBL star Tim Ludeman ever Crane Aid Goulburn Valley Big choose to spend on those players. need to put myself out in the dra gun Ash Saunders. headlines the marquee signings so far. Bash League. Sunday’s dra con rmed the bulk of again,” Eckard said.  e coveted number one selection  e keeper-batsman played for the Hurley’s Hotel in Kyabram played the four squads, but marquee signings “ ey already asked me at the end of was used by reigning premiers, the Adelaide Strikers and the Melbourne host to the GVBBL dra on Sunday, can still be made in the lead-up to the last season if I’d like to play again if I SRP Mud Dogs, on North Albury’s where the league’s four franchises se- January/February competition, and were in Australia again, and I said yeah tearaway quick, Jake Burge. Burge’s Renegades between 2011 and 2019, lected 32 players from 21 di erent the Leader understands that a number 100%, and then we just con rmed dra stocks sky-rocketed against East and currently holds the record for the clubs. of former international cricket super- that last week. Albury recently, with mind-blowing second fastest 50 ever scored in the Franchises each chose  ve players stars have been very seriously speak- “I’m stoked, I really enjoy it, it’s  gures of 8/13 that had to be seen to BBL, which he did in just 18 balls. from their 2020 playing lists to retain ing to franchises in the GVBBL. something di erent, and you get to be believed. Burge has a stunning ca- Ludeman will pad up for the Jarvis for the 2021 season, before dra ing Eckard was retained by the Cobram play with a bunch of di erent people.” reer bowling average of just 11.54. Delahey Crushers in a major coup for in another eight each, from a pool of Panel Work Panthers, along with Katandra star Jedd Wright was re- Rhiley Lau from Central Park/St the franchise.

SportA HOST of sports in the Numurkah districtstops urday. as forecastmercury high of 44ºC and eventual high of around tween Numurkahsoars and Bendigo South. were cancelled at the weekend, as the region Cricket Shepparton cancels all A and 41ºC, both leagues pulled the pin.  e GM1 match was played because the sweltered through a jarring heat wave. B-grade matches when the forecast temperature is Junior cricket is le to the discretion of the temperature only reached 31.6ºC in Bendigo Saturday comp golf and a match of tennis over 42ºC at 5pm the day before a game, and Mur- clubs, and not surprisingly, none was played. on Saturday. were the only sports to survive a brutally hot ray Valley Cricket Association does the same when Just one match of Goulburn Murray Lawn Saturday bowls was also heated o at both weekend, which reached around 41ºC on Sat- the mercury reaches 40ºC on game day, so with a Tennis Association went ahead, which was be- Numurkah bowls clubs.

NumurkahLEADER INSIDE SPORT Warriors Bowls beat the heat See story page 15 See story page 15 See story page 14 Golf