Home Blog Page 80

International Women’s Day celebrated

Jo Kubeil
-
0
International Women’s Day celebrated

NORTHERN Health celebrated International Women’s Day on Friday, March 6, by bringing together staff, board members, distinguished guests, and community members for an inspiring morning at Mantra Epping.

The highlight was a presentation by Dr Susan Alberti AC AO AM, a highly respected Australian businesswoman, philanthropist, and former vice president of her beloved Western Bulldogs Football Club.

Mrs Alberti has raised more than $200 million for medical research and other charitable causes and also been appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia for eminent service to the community in 2016.

A year later, she won the Melburnian of the Year title, and in 2018, Victorian of the Year for positive influence across community health.

Those who attended said: “She captivated the audience from start to finish, with an emotional story of resilience, courage, and fortitude when she spoke about her work in the AFL and building industry, two industries often associated with men.”

An avid lover of AFL, Dr Alberti said: “It gives me such joy to see these little girls given the opportunity that their brothers are given to go and play the sport they truly love — and why not, why shouldn’t they be given the same opportunity?

“It’s there for them now, they can have a career in footy, whether it be playing the game,
administration, coaching. Let us celebrate the achievement of the birth of women playing at the highest level of AFL football. We have come a long way, but there is still a lot to be done. Why should women not be given the same opportunities as men?”

Cobras mark their launch

The North Central Review
-
0
Cobras mark their launch

BEVERIDGE will soon be home to Victoria’s newest high-performance hockey program, with the launch of the Melbourne Cobras hockey franchise marking an exciting milestone for sport in the region.

The launch event for the team on Wednesday, March 11 brought together community members, sporting representatives and government leaders to celebrate the establishment of the franchise and its future home in Mitchell Shire.

The launch confirmed the Cobras will join the Hockey One competition from the upcoming season onwards, fielding men’s and women’s teams.

The club logo was also launched, as well as a partnership with La Trobe University, as plans are afoot to build the home of the Cobras, located in Kalkallo.

From 2026 to 2028, the Cobras will play home games at the State Netball Hockey Centre in Parkville, while also playing a home game in Bendigo in 2026 and 2027, before Cobra Stadium is built.

On a big day for the club, they also announced the first ambassadors to the club.

Men’s Olympian Rupinder Pal Singh, a member of the Indian team that won bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, was named as the men’s ambassador.

Women’s hockey legend Rani Rampal was named as the first women’s ambassador for the Cobras, having previously captained her country and helped India secure a fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Games.

Among those attending the launch was Consul General of India, Anish Rajan, alongside representatives from Hockey Victoria, Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall and Mitchell Shire Council CEO Mary Agostino and representatives from other partner organisations.

The Melbourne Cobras will play a key role in developing elite hockey talent in Victoria and will be based in Mitchell Shire, strengthening the region’s growing reputation as a destination for sport and recreation.

The initiative builds on the partnership previously announced between Mitchell Shire Council and Hockey Victoria to explore the development of a new multipurpose sporting facility in Beveridge.

The proposed facility would support both community participation and high-performance sport, creating opportunities for local players to connect with elite pathways while also providing infrastructure to support the region’s rapid growth.

Federal Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell’s commitment of $500,000 to support the Cobras program through Hockey Victoria has helped make the initiative possible.

Council is continuing to work alongside partner organisations to progress planning for the future multipurpose sporting facility in Beveridge.

The project is identified within the Lockerbie Precinct Structure Plan and is proposed to be located near the Shire’s southern boundary, east of the Hume Freeway.

Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall said Council was pleased to see Mitchell Shire become the home base for the Melbourne Cobras.

“Mitchell Shire is one of Victoria’s fastest growing regions, and it’s fantastic to see initiatives like this helping expand opportunities for sport and recreation in our community,” he said.

“We’re proud that Mitchell Shire will be the home of the Cobras and look forward to seeing the program grow and inspire the next generation of players.

“Mitchell Shire is, and will continue to be, a Shire that builds sport – supporting participation from grassroots community players right through to elite athletes.

“We are committed to investing in the facilities and opportunities that bring people together, strengthen community connections and inspire the next generation.”

Romsey golfers turn out for charity day

The North Central Review
-
0
Romsey golfers turn out for charity day

Romsey Golf Club hosted their annual charity golf day last weekend to raise funds for the Romsey Neighbourhood House.

More than 40 players took to the course for an Ambrose competition and were greeted with good playing conditions.

The combination of Dylan Harris, Ben Owen, Simon Donovan and Nathan Maroney (4) came out on top, putting together a round of 61 to just beat out the quad of Andrew Clement, Toby Clement, Matt Hoyt and Trent Cannon (7.625) who recorded a 65. Luke Lyons, Aaron Morris, Stephen Wilkins and Matthew Tingay finished in third.

Over $1000 was raised on the day for the Romsey/Lancefield Community Foodbank, part of the Neighbourhood House’s Community Food Share program.

Bowling in Robert’s memory

Michael Thompson
-
0
Bowling in Robert’s memory

IT was an emotional day at Broadford on Friday morning, with the club honouring long-time stalwart Robert Chapman with a memorial trophy.

The trophy was held for the first time since Mr Chapman’s passing after serving the club with distinction, and the occasion brought a number of clubs which fielded teams from all over the state.

Teams from Avenel, Macedon, Whittlesea, Ivanhoe, Preston/Reservoir, Euroa and of course, Mr Chapman’s beloved Broadford all rolled for a good cause, as well as a competitive chance to take home a trophy.

Fittingly, it was Broadford who took out the inaugural trophy, winning the final.

On Saturday, the club held the Gleeson Memorial Four’s, another big event for the club which brought plenty of interested teams.

The event was won by Glenroy in a thriller, taking out the title on countback from Seymour.

Changes at Seymour Racing Club

The North Central Review
-
0
Changes at Seymour Racing Club

THE Seymour Racing Club (SRC) has announced the appointment of Lisa Manning to its board, following the retirement of long-serving director Gerard O’Sullivan.

Ms Manning is currently the Victorian Sales Manager for Godolphin with more than two decades of experience across the thoroughbred industry including breeding, yearling preparation and bloodstock sales.

Seymour Racing Club chief executive Chris Martin said: “We’re incredibly fortunate to welcome someone with Lisa’s depth of experience and passion for the thoroughbred industry.

“Her knowledge across breeding, sales and the wider racing sector will be a tremendous asset to the Club as we continue to strengthen Seymour’s position as a leading country racing venue.”

Ms Manning began working in the industry in 2002 as a racehorse strapper before developing a passion for preparing yearlings for sale.

She went on to work across several prominent thoroughbred operations before joining Godolphin (then Darley) in 2015 as a Stallion Nominations Sales Consultant.

Mr Martin also paid tribute to outgoing Board member Gerard O’Sullivan for his service.

“Gerard has been a valued member of the Seymour Racing Club Board since joining in October 2009 and has dedicated more than 16 years volunteering his time to support the club,” he said.

“On behalf of the Board, staff and members, we sincerely thank Gerard for his fantastic service and commitment to the Seymour Racing Club.”

Lancefield Park gets upgrade

The North Central Review
-
0
Lancefield Park gets upgrade

THE Laurie Green Pavilion at Lancefield Park has received a major upgrade thanks to the Lancefield community.

Funded and built entirely through the financial generosity, time and commitment of local businesses, tradespeople and community members, the redevelopment features a massive indoor soft-floor training space complete with floor-to-ceiling netting, a fully equipped gym, and brand-new changerooms for both senior and junior sporting teams.

Lancefield FNC president Chris Dynon said the facility will provide Lancefield’s footballers, netballers and broader community groups with modern spaces to prepare, train and connect.

“This has been a massive effort from an amazing group of people who are passionate about making sure Lancefield and its community groups have access to facilities that are often taken for granted in larger towns,” Mr Dynon said.

“There was no external funding for this project. It simply reached the point where the community couldn’t wait any longer, so local people and businesses stepped up. They opened their wallets, donated materials, gave up countless hours of their own time and just got in and made it happen. We can’t say how grateful we are to them.”

Mr Dynon also said the indoor warm-up and training space will provide a huge benefit for teams during winter and wet weather, while also creating opportunities for junior programs and community groups to stay active year-round.

“For years our facilities haven’t been at the level they should be. This project changes that,” he said.

“The indoor warm-up area is built to AFL standards, which aligns with the experience of several of our coaching and support staff who come from AFL backgrounds. For a small community club, that’s incredibly exciting.”

While the changeroom redevelopment marks a major step forward for Lancefield Park, Mr Dynon said it is just the beginning of a longer-term vision for improving facilities across the precinct.

“There’s still more work to be done with amenities around the park, but this is a huge step in the right direction,” he said. “It shows what can be achieved when a community pulls together.”

Probus travels to Creswick

Ruddin Ardzi
-
0
Probus travels to Creswick

ON a cold March morning, a group of Probus members and friends boarded a coach at Whittlesea to visit a colder place to the west situated in the Great Dividing Range.

The destination was Creswick where the Creswick Woollen Mills tour and factory outlet was the planned activity followed by a luncheon at The American Hotel.

Chef-de-mission Alessandra Testa, coach manager Alec and the tour guide Jason Carter took the chill off the day and provided an interesting and informative sojourn.

The pioneer settlers were Henry, Charles and John Creswick, three brothers who started a large sheep station in 1842 and the town became Creswick. The population reached a peak of 25,000 during the gold rush.

Today, local industries include forestry, grazing and agriculture with a number of retained 19th and 20th century historic buildings including the hotel where the group lunched.

The overcast and chilly day improved as the group arrived at Creswick Woollen Mills, a place filled with stories woven into every thread and history stitched into every blanket. Established by the founder, Paul Ryzowy, back in 1947, it was a major new industry for the district. Many global innovations in the manufacture of wool fabrics were introduced by Mr Ryzowy.

Mr Ryzowy was born in 1912 in Poland, a country set in traditions. When he was 27 and studying in Warsaw with the shadows of war descending, Paul sought safety and refuge from the chaos. He left behind his home country and family embarking on a journey, aboard a cattle ship. After the war, Paul set his sights on Australia, and on October 1, 1947, he established Creswick Woollen Mills, which was to become known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Starting with blankets made from recycled wool, Creswick Woollen Mills quickly adapted to new trends by embracing innovation and expanding its offerings. The introduction of electric blanket fabric in the 1950s marked a milestone. By the 1960s, Creswick Woollen Mills had become more than just a manufacturer. Paul Ryzowy was setting trends, providing fabric for blazers and skirts, and other unique creations.

The tour guide Jason took the assembled visitors through the factory and explained the detail of each subset of graphic panorama that guides visitors from go to whoa. Whilst the Creswick mill no longer weaves fabric the original spinning and carting machinery is still able to be engaged if required.

There is much to see in the displays but one stand out was the world’s longest picnic rug, measuring 100 meters long and weighing 120 kilograms. Other notable innovations are CFA fire blankets and world exclusive alpaca blankets. Natural fibres are blended with wool to produce magnificent garments.

The secret to success is the commitment to using only natural fibres, each selected for its special qualities and unmatched comfort. The classic allure of Mother Nature’s abundance is demonstrated in products, which combine the opulent softness of cashmere with the cosy warmth of alpaca.

A bit like a well-known Scandinavian retailer the factory tour leads into the outlet shop without opportunity to escape. But the expansive display of manufactured goods kept guests busy until it was time to move on for lunch.

Built in 1858, the days of gold and glory, the American Hotel stands today as a unique link with Victoria’s gracious and colourful heritage. The American Hotel is renowned for its great food, excellent wines, romantic accommodation and gracious function rooms.

Carroll the Champion of Champions

Michael Thompson
-
0
Carroll the Champion of Champions

DANIEL Carroll was the toast of the Highlands Bowls Region recently by taking out the Ballarat Highlands Bowls Region Champion of Champions trophy.

Carroll earned his way to the final thanks to his performances in the Highlands Champion of Champions competition, which saw him negotiate a win over Romsey’s Aaron Young in the first round, before accounting for Kyneton Golf’s Toby Barker in the quarter finals.

A win over Broadford’s David Ellis followed in the semi final, before a 12-0 run helped Carroll claim the final over Lancefield’s Jeff Holmes on March 9.

It was another hot start in the regional final against Sebastopol’s Robert Baker on home turf which allowed Carroll to control the game.

Carroll claimed shots in each of the first seven legs to open up a 12-0 break with a third of the game gone, and while Baker fought hard to reduce the margin slightly, Carroll still had control of the game.

Up 19-12 with three ends to go, Carroll made sure of the win with three shots on the 19th end, before putting the cherry on top to claim a 25-12 win.

Carroll will now roll for the state championship in April alongside other regional winners.

Roll up and see the Ford Model T

Jo Kubeil
-
0
Roll up and see the Ford Model T

THE moment has arrived for the Romsey Men’s Shed to unveil a restored 1925 T Model Ford as part of its annual open day later this month.

Secretary Tony Cooper told the Review: “Rebuilding a Model T Ford is a highlight for many of the shed’s users. Jeff Smith is the driving force behind the project.”

Later, local business owner Doug Newnham donated the chassis and other ‘bits’ to help get the job done.

The Ford Model T was produced by the Ford Motor Company between 1908 to 1927 and these days, depending on condition, mileage and history, it could fetch around the $10,000 mark.

It is surprising that the vehicle has been in the Macedon Ranges since its sale at Gardiners Garage in Gisborne in 1926, and that 100 years later, it’s a project worthy of sharing.

The future looks bright for the ‘T’ and its restoration team as the Romsey Men’s Shed will make it available for community events.

In other news, Romsey Men’s Shed received $48,589 to fit out its newly constructed shed extension with utilities and accessible toilets.

Mr Cooper said the building permit for the extension has been approved. Works will start either Friday or the following Monday.

At its open day on Thursday, March 26, Romsey Men’s Shed will also host a free community sausage sizzle for all to enjoy at Romsey Park, 47 Barry Street, starting from 11.30am.

Vandalism at Community Garden

Jo Kubeil
-
0
Vandalism at Community Garden

OVERNIGHT last Monday, vandals destroyed two styrofoam propagation stations containing 72 valuable seedlings for the TreeProject Ovens Landcare Network.

Volunteers at the Kilmore Community Garden reported the damage to police after noticing the destruction on Tuesday morning.

A spokesperson said: “This is not caused by birds, or wildlife. It’s a nuisance member of the public. The casuarinas, also known as she-oaks, might not grow into shade and shelter desperately needed for wildlife, and to help cool the planet.”

“The grey parrot-pea, also known as an egg and bacon shrub, are drought/salt-tolerant species ideal for hedging, screening, or erosion control, and now they may not fully propagate either.”

The community garden is located in Union Street and volunteers invite community participation by means of more vigilance in the area until the seedlings are collected.

“We hope to see our chapter in the project finished over the coming months, so more vigilance is welcome,” a Kilmore Community Garden spokesperson said.

1...798081...1,148Page 80 of 1,148