Vic

Barham’s brand-new multispecies abattoir will soon begin processing as rectification works near completion. The multi-million dollar co-operative-owned investment will ensure that local growers have access to timely, humane slaughter of their animals.

Critically ill patients are being denied a hospital bed and waiting lists for public surgery continue to rise as the Victorian government sits on its hands, according to the Member for Benambra, Bill Tilley. On Tuesday afternoon, Mr Tilley called on the Minister for Health to explain the backflip on plans to use 20 beds at Mercy Health as a safety valve to the critical shortage.

Jade Auldist. In a day they'll never forget, a group of lucky Auskick kids from Hay were given the opportunity of a lifetime, thanks to our dedicated Auskick coordinator, Leah Wythes. On Sunday, they stepped onto the turf of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) to play at halftime during the sold-out AFL clash between Carlton and Hawthorn.

The Nhill Coastbusters hosted a successful event on Sunday ... as part of their Coastrek walk to raise funds for the Heart Foundation. The event featured locally grown foods and talents, with Chef Cat Clarke from Dimboola providing delicious meals to all attendees—an exciting first for many.

B.Close. The Nhill Bowling Club conducted the annual H. Tink Electrical Winter tournament last Saturday, boasting excellent entries from Wimmera clubs. Sixty bowlers enjoyed some much-anticipated sunshine and an afternoon of fellowship in this popular casual tournament format.

Shane O’Shea. On July 29 this year, the “Buloke Times” commenced its 150th year of newspaper publication, continuing a tradition of recording local district news established by the founder of the “Donald Times”, the late Godfrey Morgan ... the newspaper has undergone many changes, both in name and production method, but has steadfastly adhered to the desire to keep its readers informed and to record the many events that impact their lives and have shaped the development of the region.

The secret is now out! And the residents have started to move into their high-rise apartments. Some time ago, a "Buloke Times" photographer spotted an impressive array of colourful birdhouses at the Donald Buloke Shire Council office, each getting a fresh coat of weather protection. The photographer was politely asked to keep a lid on the scoop, as further consultation with land management stakeholders was under way.

The Goldfields Gothic Festival took place last weekend and was once again a perfectly sombre, solemn and melancholy event; attendees had a wonderful time and the organisers declared it a success … Under the steam of Peter Thompson and a number of key helpers — including Sasha Cuha, Gabrielle Kelly and a crew wearing top hats — most of the main events in 2024 took place at the Maldon Vintage Machinery and Museum.

The opening of the “Driven” exhibition on Saturday ... at the Charlton Courthouse Gallery was a highlight on the cultural calendar for the artists, gallery committee, and many in attendance. Featuring the textiles and paintings of Kate Giakimis, ceramics by Genevieve Navarre, metal sculptures by Joel Thiesz and Joe Durie, and paintings by Chris Wyatt, the mix of materials used and the quality of the work, proved a hit with visitors.

Course Language. Last weekend saw one of the club’s “Board” events held in the Maurie Tranter Memorial Mixed. The winners for the fourth time were Colin “Pug” and Maree Cullen with 83=13 ½ – 69 ½ ... Last Friday saw a few more keen junior golfers turn up ...

Michelle Dorian. The delicate creations displayed in Maldon’s MANet Gallery are intricate, sculptural artworks and they are also hats. The wearable pieces were created by Noelle Elizabeth, who trained in Fine Arts at Ballarat University before pursuing a passion for historical headgear.