Did someone say "Drought" ?

Hosted by The Moonambel Arts Group, the 10th solo exhibition of works by Russell Drever went on display at the Moonambel Pavilion last week.

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 The works are rendered on cotton canvas in oil and acrylic and also some with auto-lacquer.

A large crowd gathered on the Saturday to view the colorful works while sampling local wines and canapes.

RESULTS FOR MARYBOROUGH CASTLEMAINE DFL >
SENIORS FOOTBALL: Qualifying Final - 28/08/2010 Avoca    12.11   (83)    defeated    Maryborough Rovers  6 . 2   (38) 
RESERVES Qualifying Final - 28/08/2010Maldon       11.7     (73)    defeated    Avoca            6.7     (43) 
U/17 : Qualifying Final - 28/08/2010Trentham      4.4     (28)    defeated    Campbells Creek  3.5     (23)

RESULTS FOR 2010 MCDFL NETBALL >
A GRADE QUALIFYING FINAL: Newstead  (32)    defeated    Carisbrook        (26)

B GRADE QUALIFYING FINAL: Dunolly (32)    defeated    Maldon            (21)

C GRADE QUALIFYING FINAL: Newstead (21)    defeated    Carisbrook        (17)

U/17 QUALIFYING FINAL: Avoca  (30)    defeated    Maldon            (25)

U/15 QUALIFYING FINAL: Campbells Creek (40)    defeated    Carisbrook        (21)

 Following a further inspection of Princes Park Maryborough this morning by members of the MCDFNL Executive and after consideration of the forecast and expected rainfall over the next 7-10days days the MCDFNL Executive have made an “early” decision to relocate NEXT Weekends SEMI FINALS.

It is hoped that by “resting” Princes Park for the 1st 2 weeks of the MCDFNL’s Finals series that the surface will improve sufficiently to host the MCDFNL Preliminary Final on Saturday 11th September and the Grand Final on Sunday 19th September.

As a result, the revised details for the Semi Final weekend of the 2010 Bendigo Bank MCDFNL Finals Series:
Saturday 4th September 2010 2nd Semi Finals – CARISBROOK Recreation Reserve
Sunday 5th September 2010  1st Semi Finals – AVOCA PUBLIC PARK, Avoca

THIS WEEK'S matches-  Please note changes of venues
Saturday 28th August 2010 Qualifying Finals – CARISBROOK Recreation Park 
2.35pm: Senior Football Avoca V Maryborough Rovers 
12.50pm: Reserve Football Maldon V Avoca
11.20am: Under 17 Football Campbells Creek V Trentham
NETBALL 2.30pm: A Grade Netball Carisbrook V Newstead
1.30pm: B Grade Netball Dunolly V Maldon
12.30pm: C Grade Netball Carisbrook V Newstead
11.30am: 17 & Under Netball Avoca V Maldon
10.30am: 15 & Under Netball Campbells Creek V Carisbrook

Sunday 29th August 2010 ELIMINATION Finals – HEDGES OVAL, Maryborough
2.35pm: Senior Football Newstead  V Carisbrook
12.50pm: Reserve Football Harcourt V Royal Park
11.20am: Under 17 Football Maryborough Rovers V Carisbrook
NETBALL2.30pm: A Grade Netball Dunolly V Royal Park
1.30pm: B Grade Netball Newstead V Maryborough Rovers
12.30pm: C Grade Netball Avoca V Maldon
11.30am: 17 & Under Netball Campbells Creek V Dunolly
10.30am: 15 & Under Netball Newstead V Maldon            

With National Tree Day being celebrated on 1st August 2010, Avoca Friends of the River and the children from Avoca Primary School and the Avoca Playgroup joined representatives from the North Central CMA to plant 800 trees, shrubs and grasses along stage 2 of the REACH 7 Revegetation project on Tuesday 3rd August.
Trees purchased from Neangar Revegetation & Forestry Nursery, McClelland Drive Eaglehawk.
We thank them for their support.
(And they have survived the recent flood!)

The school children were divided into 5 groups with the older children teaming up with their younger buddies.

The first group met with CMA field officer Pau Nelson to discuss the importance of trees to our river environment and learn how to plant the trees.

 The other two groups were involved with a Nature Alphabet Walk along the new Nature Trail and checking on the trees that were planted in 2009.
(Right) A very successful day, with over 800 trees planted along the first stage of the Nature Trail from the railway bridge north

Next FREE BreastScreen Bus is on Monday 27th September.

The bus will stop in Avoca at the Post Office at 9:30 am sharp and returns to Avoca at approx 1:30pm.

Please contact Jodie at MDHS Community Services on 54 61 0400

Plans are well in hand for Moonambel's 150th Anniversary Celebrations. At a recent meeting some of the activities planned for Saturday were discussed and these include a back to school historic display, John Argall will take photos of former pupils decade by decade, launch of historic walk, bbq lunch and a play re-enactment.
There will aslo be the Party in the Pyrenees at the Recreation Reserve with a fireworks display and lots of fun activities.

On Sunday a commemorative plaque will be unveiled just prior to a Thanksgiving Service at the common at 10:30am, plus activities during the day.

DATE: 30th - 31st October 2010.

FOOTBALL
Seniors: Avoca 24.15.159 def Trentham 8.10.58 
Goals: Chris Lakey 5, Nathan Coghlan 4, Sam Kaye 4, Ben Harrison 2,
Nick Barker 2, Adrian Pilgrim 1, Will Johanson 1, Beau Ketchen 1,
Paul Houston 1, Mitch Etherton 1, Lachlan Edwards 1, Brendan Veitch 1.

Best:   Chris Lakey, Beau Ketchen, Nathan Coghlan, Lachlan Etherton, Jack Kaye, Mitch Etherton.

Reserves: Avoca 17.19.121 Def Trentham 3.4.22
Goals: Nathan Coghlan 4, Brendan Veitch 3, Josh Barker, 2, Lachlan Howell 2,
Russell Wardlaw 1, Nathan Field 1, Matt Pask 1, Jason Hunt 1, Devon Svilicic 1, Josh Grant 1.

Best:   Josh Barker, Gary Wardlaw, Trevor Field, Brendan Veitch, Nathan Coghlan, Lachlan Howell.

                  
Under 17: Avoca 6.5.41 lost to Trentham 8.10.58
Goals: Taylor Hall 3, Nick Barker 2, Mitch Holland 1.

Best:   Taylor Hall, Nathan Field, Nick Barker, Matthew Jukes, Anthony Haby, Bryce Howell.

NETBALL
A Grade: Avoca 72 def Trentham 24

B Grade: Avoca 62 def Trentham 12

 C Grade: Avoca 51 def Trentham 16

Under 17: Avoca 33 def Trentham 16

 Under 15: Avoca 12 lost to Trentham 24

FOOTBALL - Round 15 against Harcourt

Seniors: Avoca 12.9.81 drew with Harcourt 12.9.81
Goals: Tony Bellenger 4, Adrian Pilgrim 3, Nathan Coghlan 2,
Nick Barker 1, Carl Moser 1,

Best:  Lachlan Edwards, Carl Moser, Mitchell Etherton, Jack Kaye,
Beau Ketchen, Tony Bellenger.

Reserves: Avoca 10.14.74 defeated Harcourt 7.7.49
Goals: Nathan Coghlan 4, Ross Allison 2, Josh Barker 1, Ash Bromley 1,
Matt Pask 1, Gary Wardlaw 1.

Best:   Craig Salmon, Bryce Howell, Trevor Field, Gary Wardlaw, Nathan Field,
Josh Barker.

Under 17: Avoca 8.4.52 defeated Harcourt 4.8.32
Goals: Nick Barker 3, Nathan Field 1, Cameron Holland 1, Bryce Howell 1,
Matthew Jukes 1, Linden Murray 1.

Best:   Matthew Jukes, Taylor Hall, Bryce Howell, Jay Armstrong,
Lachlan Howell,Nathan Field.

NETBALL

A Grade: Avoca 72 def Harcourt 29

B Grade: Avoca 35 def Harcourt 20

C Grade: Avoca 25 lost to Harcourt 41

Under 17: Avoca 40 def Harcourt 25

Under 15: Avoca 10 lost to Harcourt 32

Best & Fairest for 2010
The Avoca FNC has set the dates for the Best & Fairest vote counts for 2010.
The Senior Vote Count for the Senior, Reserves Football and the A,B,C Netball will be held on Sunday 22nd August at the Social Rooms commencing at 12 Noon.

This follows the Cabaret Ball which is to be held on Saturday August 21st.

The Junior Vote Counts for the 17's football and the 17's and 15's netball will be held on Friday 17th September commencing at 6pm. This is the week of the MCDFNL Grand Final which is on Sunday 19th September.

More information will be posted as the events draw closer.

While researching the history of the Avoca River for our River Festival in October, I discovered that the 6th February 2011 will be a very important date for our town—150 years ago the Governor of Victoria proclaimed Avoca as a township along with several other Victorian towns.
Is this worth celebrating?
If you agree with me that it is an important date for Avoca, then I need your help to plan a ‘Celebration to Remember’.
We will call a public meeting in the next few weeks to discuss possible activities and hopefully establish a 150th Committee to work on plans for the Avoca Township Celebrations in 2011.
Contact Marg 54 653 230  or Sandra 54 653 832 at the Pyrenees Advocate to express your interest.
Or through our CONTACT US page.

WANTED!   - Members of the Avoca & District communities to learn how to make creative,large lanterns.
Avoca Friends of the River is hosting a Lantern Making Workshop with Annie Edney to learn how to make large, creature lanterns for our Enchanted River Festival in October.
Annie is a professional artist and has been making lanterns for 15 years.
The workshops will be run over two days in August, 23/27 (dates /times to be confirmed). Interested people are invited to attend one or both workshops.
The lanterns will then feature in the River of Lanterns to be lit at dusk at the Avoca Eco Living Festival - "An Enchanting Evening on the Avoca River"
This is a great opportunity to learn a new skill that will benefit both the individual and the community.

If you are interested please contact
Marg Pilgrim 54 653 230 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it  

 The Avoca Shire Turf Club has been nominated for Country Racing Victoria's Club of the Year award for 2009 - 2010. .

Last week the club presented the Avoca Nursing Home/Hostel with a LO LO bed valued at $3800. The money ($3000) was raised when the Melbourne Cup visited Avoca last year and with help from the Health Service who put up the extra $800 to meet the cost of the bed residents at the nursing home can rest in comfort and safety. The beds also make it easier for staff to look after the residents. Thanks must go to the community for making this event possible.

This year the club is planning a non-racing GALA EVENT to take place at the Avoca Racecourse on Melbourne Cup Day. Large screens will showcase the Melbourne Cup races and there will corporate dining packages,children's events and on-course bookmaking and TAB facilities

The communities of Elmhurst, Amphitheatre and Avoca will continue to have access to bus service to the larger centres of Ararat and Maryborough following the extension of the Grampians Pyrenees Flexible Transport Connection project.

The trial bus service from Ararat to Maryborough was launched in January this year and following a review of the service and a revamped timetable, it has been extended for a further 6 months.

Click for Timetable
 Ararat to Maryborough Bus_July10 154.03 Kb

The Natte Yallock Landcare group will host a soils day on Wednesday August 4th with Christine Jones and Colin Seis.
Places at the day will be limited as preference obviously needs to be given to participants in the North Central CMAs Farming for Sustainable Soils Project which has funded the event, and to Natte Yallock Landcare members. But there will other places available. Please contact me if you want to come along.

Donald and District will also be holding a similar day with Christine  and Colin on Thursday 5th. Please contact Lindsay Ezard on 0427 952 553 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

 Soil Day 290.69 Kb

Avoca Friends of the River and the children from Avoca Primary School will join the representatives from the North Central Catchment Management Authority to plant over 700 trees along stage 1 of the riverside nature trail commencing at the Railway bridge on Tuesday 3rd August 2010 at 10am to coincide with National Tree Day.
There will be a BBQ lunch at the conclusion of the planting session.
Members of the community are welcome to come along and help the children to amke a difference along our river.

 Tree Day 166.78 Kb

The township of Avoca and the Pyrenees ranges have provided the backdrop for a hotly contested 3rd round of the Victorian Rally Championship at the 52nd George Derrick Memorial Rally.

Click to view youtube footage

CCRMIT would once again like to thank our event support sponsors and local businesses, Redbank Winery, Wimmera Hills Winery and national company Australian Battery House through their Batronic brand and acknowledge the invaluable support of the Pyrenees Shire Council and thank Avoca and its residents for letting the Victorian rallying community take over their main street for the day.

Provisional Results - 19/07/2010
On a cool, overcast day, hardy officials after spending up to 14 hours in the forest, saw Nathan Reeves and Scott Speeding take out heat 1 but concede the 2nd heat to Jesse Robison and Adam Wright.

Reeves and Spedding, after a brief visit to the vines of a local winery, managed the outright win by a mere 12 seconds despite having brake dramas and that off road excursion on the final stage of the event. Warren Lee and David Leathlean recorded a lower than expected 6th place in the 1st heat but fought back with a much stronger 3rd in heat 2 to salvage 3rd place overall.

The Victorian Two-wheel drive Championship was also a close result with Brian Semmens/Dan Parry and Alan Friend/Robin Smalley sharing a heat win before Semmens and Parry took out the overall event result.

Young charger Steven Mackenzie, with experienced co-driver Jason Hague on-board, continues to impress in the Victorian Excel series taking 1st outright after winning both heats, sneaking into the top 10 in heat 2.  Tony Moore/Nikki Moore were 2nd followed by  Gerard Blum/Chris Bolton in 3rd.

The VCRS was no less exciting and just as keenly contested with Simon and Ian Ellis taking the event win from Steve Porter/Leigh Garrioch in 2nd and visitors from South Australia Aaron Bowering/Nathan Lowe in 3rd.

VRC – Two-wheel drive
1 Brian Semmens/Dan Parry   Nissan 200SX RV S12  1:12:56
2 Alan Friend/Robin Smalley  Nissan Silvia RS   1:13:02
3 Brendan Brown/Sam Robison Datsun 180B SSS   1:17:08

Victorian Excel Series
1 Steven Mackenzie/Jason Hague  Hyundai Excel   1:17:20
2 Tony Moore/Nikki Moore   Hyundai Excel X3   1:19:53
3 Gerard Blum/Chris Bolton   Hyundai Excel X3   1:20:03

VCRS – Outright.
1 Simon Ellis/Ian Ellis   Subaru Legacy RS   1:01:39
2 Steve Porter/Leigh Garrioch  Mazda RX7    1:04:33
3 Aaron Bowering/Nathan Lowe  Datsun 200B    1:05:36

These results are provisional only and subject to final confirmation.

Editor's Note: Thank you to the organisers of the George Derrick for bringing the rally to our district. Not only does this give us the opportunity to showcase our region to newcomers (and encourage them to revisit us) but it provides opportunities for our businesses and community groups to service the members of your rally and rasie much needed funds.
The rally area, both in town and along the river, were immaculate on the Sunday and we could not see where you had been - even the doggy droppings were collected!
We look forward to sharing our town with you next year.

Pyrenees Shire Mayor David Clark,
welcomed eleven seniors to the Avoca Information Centre on Wednesday the 7th July for the launching of
"Broadband for Seniors".
The program has been funded by the Australian Government under the "Broadband for Seniors" initiative,
which aims to support seniors in gaining confidence and building skills in using new technology.

 Natte Yallock Landcare AGM
After the election of Office Bearers for 2010-2011 members were keen to learn of the situation regarding the possibility of locust infestation in spring 2010.

A representative from the DPI indicated that there was a high probability of widespread pest infestation of nymphs developing in October & November 2010. 
Victoria is gearing up for what could be the worst locust outbreak in almost 40 years.
To enable locusts to be dealt with efficiency and without endue personal hardship, Victorian farmers will be rebated 100% of the purchase price of registered chemicals used to treat locust hoppers on their properties during spring.
 
The most effective outcome requires landholders working collaboratively in their local communities and with DPI to ensure a coordinated response.
Further information on the arrangements for administering the chemical rebate scheme will be made available in the coming weeks through the press and on the DPI website  http://new.dpi.vic.gov.au/home

DPI hotline 1300 135559 8am to 6pm Mon to Fri
Locust activity should be reported to DPI – toll free 1800 635 962.

Office Bearers for 2010:
President:
Vice President:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
Facilitator:

The inaugural fair attracted around 1000 keen antique enthusiasts over the 2 days and gave them a chance to meet the 30 dealers from all around Australia and find a special treasure amongst the variety of items on display.

Event organiser, John Markworth, was delighted with the venue and while he had hoped for a larger crowd he is positive of attracting more antique lovers when the fair returns in 2011.

John also organises the popular Ballarat Antique Fair and he is confident that the food and wine and facilities at the Avoca Function Centre will quickly put the Avoca event at the top of the list of fairs to attend to view and purchase antiques.

The Antique Fair commenced on Friday evening with a Gala Charity Preview of the many stalls that would be open to the public on Saturday & Sunday. One Hundred local residents thoroughly enjoyed catching up with friends while searching for a special item to purchase… or admire. Approximately $1000 was raised to support a local, yet to be decided, cause within Avoca.

Those present were impressed with the many displays and variety of items for sale…and after many hours of exhaustive searching there was a chance to sit and grab something to eat or drink from the variety of foods provided by Charlton Catering.

For these not into antiques there was plenty to entertain the not so keen observer. A display of local collectable cars lined the entrance to the building and inside was a 1941 Indian motorcycle and side car to bring back memories of times gone by. A 3 metre Meccano model of the Titanic also created interest as people recalled the famous journey and the ship’s sad demise.

After several hours of looking and admiring, I’m sure there are many items that have now found a new home in Avoca or further afield.

Congratulations to Harvey & Carol Wilkins for encouraging John to bring the Antique Fair to Avoca and to all concerned for making it such an enjoyable experience. I’m sure it will become a regular feature on our calendar of events.

As from the 1st of July there will be more services available for the community from the
Avoca Information Centre.

The Centre is stepping up its level of service to the community by increasing its opening hours and offering new amenities.

The program has been funded by the Australian Government under the “Broadband for Seniors” initiative, which aims to support seniors in gaining confidence and building skills in using new technology.

The library service at the Avoca Information Centre also commenced increased opening hours for borrowing or returning a book this week. The library facility now operates seven days week from 9 am to 5 pm, meaning community members have better access and greater freedom to utilise the many services offered by the centre.

Pyrenees Shire Council is committed to maintaining a high level of services to its community, and the recent improvements for the Avoca Information Centre are just some of the many enhancements currently underway.

For further details about the library service at the Avoca Information Centre and the Broadband for Seniors program...
Contact Alana Burge on 5465 1000.

 Avoca played Campbells Creek at home in Round 10 of the MCDFNL

Reserves:  Avoca 11.9.75  defeated Campbells Creek  11.4.70
 Goals: Jason Hunt 3, Trevor Field 2, Gary Wardlaw 2, Mitch Holland 1,
Travis Smith 1, Devon Svilicic 1, Brad Wardlaw 1,
Best:   Trevor Field, Aaron Calder, Brad Wardlaw, Devon Svilicic, Matthew Jukes.

Under 17:  Avoca  2. 4.16  lost to Campbells Creek 12.12.84 
Goals: Nick Barker 1, Taylor Hall 1.
Best:   Bryce Howell, Taylor Hall, Matthew Jukes, Nathan Holland, Lachlan Howell.

NETBALL 

A Grade:  Avoca 70 def Campbells Creek 19

B Grade:   Avoca 48 def Campbells Creek 20

C Grade:   Avoca 21 lost to Campbells Creek 28

Under 17:  Avoca 32 def Campbells Creek 30

Under 15:  Avoca 6 lost to Campbells Creek 56

Local business owner and member of Talbot Action Inc, Fred Davies, then thanked the Bendigo Bank and Shire Council for their support in finally securing the ATM for Talbot. He commented that he was unaware of just how much the town needed an ATM until it was installed in time for the June market. 100 transactions were conducted on the Sunday and this benefited the stall holders as shoppers were able to purchase their special treasure without having to drive to Maryborough for cash – and then decide not to return to buy the goods!

Are you interested in preserving your photos for future generations? 
Would you like to create a special album for a friend or relative? 
Do you want to learn the art of scrapbooking or using a digital style presentation? 

If you answered yes to any of the above, phone me, I have the expertise and passion to help you.
I am keen to work with individuals or to organise group workshops in Avoca. 

Judy Martin, Lexton... 5466 7261

 Do you have a computer but don't know how to turn it on... or once it's on you don't know what to do next?
Then this is for you...
A 5 week course in Basic Computer Skills will commence on Wednesday 21st July 2010
at the Avoca Information Centre

Dates: Wed 21st July to 25th August.
Time: 9:30 tp 12:30
Cost: $90   or  Concession $50 plus $20 for tea/coffee.
Manual available for purchase also.
Book at the Avoca Information Centre 54 651 000

The trial bus service linking Ararat to Maryborugh has recently been reviewed and the timetable is set to undergo minor changes as from Friday the 2nd of July 2010.
Travellers will still be able to travel from Ararat and through Elmhurst, Amphitheatre and Avoca to Maryborough twice on a Friday however the Monday service will cease and a Saturday run will replace it. It is hoped that a Saturday service may benefit students /youth who need to travel between the two larger centres.

The Grampians Pyrenees Flexible Transport Project will announce its new timetable soon  so if you need further details before then contact:
Project Co-ordinator Robyn Hemley on 0427 051 562 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Fares to be included soon.

 Ararat to Maryborough Bus_July10 154.03 Kb

Freelance food and wine writer Tricia Welsh reported favourably on a variety of Avoca businesses in her article “Rich Pickings” as well as featuring fine food outlets in Redbank, Moonambel, Dunolly, and neighbouring towns in the Goldfields region.

Tricia commented that although “the gold may have largely disappeared from the Ballarat and Pyrenees region …the area is still a treasure trove for those who appreciate food and wine”.

If you get a chance to find a copy of the magazine turn to page 34 and have a read…The article certainly paints a glowing picture of our region and the businesses that service it. The article also promotes our market, the race meetings and the Pyrenees Escapade.

In Round 9 of the MCDFNL, Avoca had wins in the Senior Football and the A,B,C and 17's netball today at Carisbrook.     
The Avoca Senior Football team kept Carisbrook goal-less until half time. They remain undefeated in 2010 and are sitting on top of the league ladder.  

Tony Bellenger led by example as he hit the ball and packs hard at every contest and young Nick Barker (pictured) bagged 6 goals from 7 shots. Nick also played in the 17's earlier in the day and bagged another 6 goals. Well done Nick        

FOOTBALL:
Seniors:   Avoca  13.9.87 defeated Carisbrook 7.8.50 
Goals:      Nick Barker 6, Chris Lakey 2, Lachlan Edwards 1, Tony Bellenger 1,
Brendon Hedger 1, Justin Tapner 1, Will Johanson 1.
Best:       Brendon Hedger, Ben Harrison, David Miles, Tony Bellenger,
Lachlan Edwards, Nick Barker.

Reserves:  Avoca  5.6.36 defeated Carisbrook  10.14.74 
Goals:       Dallas Coghill 2, Jason Hunt 1, Devon Svilicic 1, Bryce Howell 1.
Best:        Trevor Field, Craig Salmon, Bryce Howell, Ash Bromley, Aaron Calder.

Under 17: Avoca  6.8.44 defeated Carisbrook  8.9.57 
Goals:      Nick Barker 6.
Best:        Nick Barker , Anthony Haby, Nathan Field, Bryce Howell,
Lachlan Howell.

NETBALL

A Grade:   Avoca 52 def Carisbrook 40
Best:        Colleen Drummond, Claire Farnsworth.

B Grade:   Avoca 38 def Carisbrook 12
Best:        Colleen Soulsby, Stacey Neil.

C Grade:   Avoca  46 def Carisbrook 37
Best:       Jo Beavis, Shaylan Hart.

Under 17: Avoca 34 def Carisbrook 14
Best:       Caitlin Howell, Brylie Parker.

Under 15:  Avoca 19 lost to Carisbrook 37
Best:        Bridget Epworth, Hayley Wardlaw, Jess Fraser.

Respite provides short term care in a Residential Care Facility, on a planned or an emergency basis, for community dwelling aged care residents.

It may be you who are in need of a break, or your Carer who needs time out due to stress, illness, holidays or for any other reason.

 What do you need to do?
Talk to your doctor or phone the Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) team in your region. For Avoca please call 53 20 3740 (Ballarat Health Services).
ACAS will arrange a visit by an assessment officer who will advise the level of care required -low care (Hostel) or high care (Nursing Home).
Once the assessment has been completed by ACAS, you or your carer will need to ring the Hospital to book your respite. Each respite recipient is allowed up to 63 days per financial year.
You will be required to pay a basic daily fee for all respite care in a government subsidised facility. This is a flat fee set by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing.
If you would like to book respite, or find out more information please contact
AVOCA                 P: 5465 1200
DUNOLLY             P: 5468 2900
MARYBOROUGH    P: 5461 0345

The  Avoca Business & Tourism Streetscape committee was out in force last week to commence work on designated carparking areas in the median strips at the southern and northern ends of town.

 Avoca Breast Cancer Support Group
has once again hosted a very successful
BIGGEST Morning Tea.
                                                                   

Local butcher, Kelvin Charlesworth, closed the door on his butcher's shop for the last time on Saturday 12th June 2010.

Kelvin commenced working for his father Jack on December 15,1958 and has worked continuously in the same business for 51 years.

During his last week of trading and on his last day many well wishers popped their head inside the door to wish him well in his retirement.

Kelvin and wife Ann intend to do some travelling once they finalise the business and have a well earned rest.

100 Pink Balloons were released prior to the auction in memory of Baby Amy.

Last weekend the residents of Avoca & District and the many visitors to our town contributed generously to Amy’s Appeal at the auction and BBQ held at the Avoca Riverside Market.

The appeal committee would like to sincerely thank all those who generously donated goods and special thanks go to the many bidders who supported the auction.
Final total is $10,706—Thank You One and ALL

 2010 is starting to shape up as a pretty good year for farming, let’s hope things can keep going. Since the last newsletter it has been quite busy in the landcare area for a lot of members but quiet for those not involved in the programs that have been offered.

            The Farmplan21 course was completed over six weeks by 15 members with Cam Morrison and has helped us with our computer skills and land classing with a fantastic program. I know there are several people who were busy at the time and are still interested. If we can get a few names, Cam still has funding to run another course. This course was not funded by Farm Ready so wont affect any funding for other future courses.

            A local committee chaired by Tony Mortlock and facilitated by Kevin Spence has spent many hours working through funding for the ‘Farming for Sustainable Soils’ project. This project will put a large amount of money into the district over many sites. It has not been an easy project to administer or without frustrations but the landcare group appreciates the time and effort put in by the committee.

            Part of the FSS project was a visit by Colin Seis who conducted a full day seminar on ‘Pasture Cropping’. Those there were introduced to a different attitude to native pastures and how to crop through them and build them up for livestock.

            The second year of ‘Sustainable Farm Families’ was held at the Highland Society in April and although a few people couldn’t make it was particularly beneficial for everyone and also added to the finances of the Landcare Group and the Footy club.
Once again many thanks to Ali Cossar for organising this program.

            Holmes Sackett have contacted our group regarding a seminar on’ Principles of Profitable Farm Leasing for Grain Producers’ and have booked the Rec Reserve for the 24th June, those on our email list should have a copy of the application forms, I will make copies for those who need them.
The cost of the course is $500 per person or  $600 for two from the same enterprise. This cost can be fully reimbursed through Farm Ready. We believe the day is very relevant and because numbers are limited you should book early.

Don’t be a drifter spraying course-get names in if you are interested.           

NEXT MEETING-AGM
Wed 16th June 2010 Rec Reserve
6.30 Tea 7.30 Meeting Start
Agenda
-Election of Office Bearer
 -Financial Report
-Kevin Spence Report on FSS and other grants currently available
-Cam Morrison will give an update on locusts , Govt Policy and advice for spring infestations.

Peter Coates Facilitator            John Hanley President               Tony Mortlock Secretary

The Pyrenees Shire
in conjunction with Avoca Business & Tourism Inc and Avoca Lions 
hosted a
WELCOME BBQ for New Residents to Avoca
on Wednesday 14th April at the
Avoca Golf /Bowls Club.

 The evening was a Shire initiative and was well attended by Shire representatives, community & business groups and 13 new residents.

It was a great opportunity for all parties to meet socially and discover what services as well as social & recreational opportunities there are in Avoca.
Norman Prueter from Beaufort Information Centre welcomed everyone and invited Mayor David Clark to speak on behalf of the Pyrenees Shire.

 Lloyd Gollop, President of Avoca Business & Tourism Inc (AB&T), outlined the activities and services provided by AB&T and encouraged businesses as well as community members to become actively involved with the group that promotes and supports Avoca as a great place to live, work and play.
Community groups were then asked to introduce their particular organisation and 'give it a plug'.
These included:
Lions Club, Golf/Bowls Club, Cricket Club and Recreation Reserve Committee, Urban CFA, For Blokes Sake, CWA, Avoca Festival & Events, Avoca & District Historical Society, Friends of the River.
New (returning) Resident David Porra thanked everyone for the evening and new owner of the Avoca Hotel, Ian invited community groups to register to for an opportunity to be part of their weekly raffle to raise funds for their club or group.

 Maryborough Relay For Life
9th-10th April, 2010

 ~ THE AVOCA MOB ~ 
The Avoca Mob has been raising funds over the last few months by holding stalls at markets, raffles and cooking the BBQ at the
Avoca Riverside Market.

On Friday afternoon, the 9th of April, amidst the rain, the team prepared the site for the long 18 hours ahead ….shelter, beds, food, water, dry clothes, and entertainment.

After the Official Opening, the first lap of the relay was walked by the many Cancer Survivors and their Carers as the gathering remembered those who have been touched by cancer.  It was a moving ceremony as the Relay Walkers joined the initial walkers to start the 18 hour event.

 The Avoca Mob carried a crocheted baton in the team colors - red, yellow and grey and the first two walkers, Ren & Corina carried the baton with pride.

 At 7:30 Candles of Hope lit up the arena and the relay paused for a minutes silence to Remember. The relay continued as two pipers lead the gathering on a Remembrance lap.

As the evening wore on and the weather fluctuated from calm conditions to misty rain the spirits of the competitors never varied. They donned coats and umbrellas, grabbed refreshments and continued the walk with pride and a smile.

Congratulations to the 19 members of the Avoca Mob and particularly to their Team Captain Fred Staton and his wife Janet.

After fulfilling their commitment to CORES the committee has decided to look into other alternate issues and have renamed their group Avoca Healthy Minds.
This gives the group more scope to focus on varied workshops that will be available to all community members that are interested in the topics presented.
Our first Guest Speaker will be Health Professional Andrew Sullivan. Andrew will speak on depression, anxiety, health maintenance and exercise therapy.

The next Community Information night will be held onThursday April 8th at 7pm in the Avoca Town Hall.

The group will work with Beyond Blue, Wesley Mission, Pyrenees Shire and Maryborough District Health Services to name a few.
The Avoca & District community has had its share of suicides in the past few years and the Avoca Healthy Minds committee see this as an issue they need to look further at, hence the name change and direction.
Some residents find helpwhen looking, some struggle and others think they are the only one with a problems, but each and every one of us does have a problem at sometime in our lives and if the Avoca Healthy Minds committee can help in any way it will.
The person not able to cope may not be yourself but a friend, neighbour, or friend of a friend, someone will always know this person and if the Avoca Healthy Minds committee can help that person that will be their reward.

Members of the Avoca Healthy Minds Committee are not trained professionals but caring community members willing to try to help others.
 The Avoca Health Minds committee presently meet on the 4th Monday of the month at 7pm in the RTC room at the rear of the Information Centre ( Rutherford St). If you would like to join this small committee please contact interim Chairperson Johann Westin on 54 653 412 / 0403322928 OR Secretary Cheryl Mallison on 54 653 935.

Plans for a Pyrenees Garden at the northern end of the town are well under way.  This will be a major project for AB&T and the town so please watch for more details and plans in the coming months.
This will be a Major Town Project so please consider how you can help
—Labour, Machinery, Expertise, Ideas…...
Contact Ken Maybery—54 653 618

Visiting Hours to change at Amherst Ward – Maryborough Hospital

From 18 April 2010, visiting hours at Amherst Ward, Maryborough District Health Service’s acute ward, are set to change.
The changes have been made as a direct response to, and in consultation with, patients’ and visitors’ concerns.

New visiting hours for Amherst Ward only:
• 11.00 a.m. – 12.30 p.m.
• 2.30 p.m. – 8.00 p.m.

The hours have been changed to enable visitors to utilise public transport when coming to visit a family member or friend. Visits from loved ones are an important part of a patient’s recovery.
Fiona Brew, Executive Director of Nursing, said that patients had also indicated that they wanted quiet time, when there were no visitors.

“It’s an important aspect of our duty of care at MDHS to respond to patients’ issues,” she said.
“The change in visiting hours does not affect the Maternity Ward or any of the nursing homes at Avoca, Maryborough or Dunolly. I am confident that visitors will respect these changes and very quickly will become familiar with the new hours,” Mrs Brew said.

Signage around the Maryborough hospital will be changed to reflect the new hours and information will be given to all patients at pre-admission clinics and at admission.

 Wireless Internet now available at the Avoca & Beaufort Libraries from 27 November 2009

New Wireless Internet hotspot now operating in Avoca & Beaufort.  Members of the Pyrenees Libraries now have free wireless internet access within the library thanks to a new service introduced by the Central Highlands Regional Library Corporation.

The wireless access and subsequent infrastructure upgrades at the Avoca & Beaufort Libraries were made possible through the Computer Management and Wireless Internet in Public Libraries Grant Program from the State Government’s Department of Planning and Community Development.

Bring your laptop in to try out this new service in Avoca on Mondays & Fridays Between 2 & 5pm and on Wednesdays between 9am & 12 noon.

The announcement of Lions Citizen of the Year came as a complete surprise to this year’s recipient, Noel Jess.
Noel is a founding  member of the
Lions Club (38 years) and  has probably
contributed a total 140 years of service to many Avoca organizations during  that time, including the Fire Brigade, Turf Club, Football Club and of course the LIons Club.
Congratulations Noel!

 This special  day concluded at the Avoca Pool Party organized by AFEC & the YMCA.
Those present enjoyed face painting, yabby races, coloring competitions and of course heaps of fun in the water.
The winner of the Family Season's ticket for  2010-11 was Lisa Shannon from Amphitheatre.
Thanks must go to Kaye and her YMCA team who looked after everyone during the afternoon. Thanks also to the AFEC volunteers for organising the BBQ tea and assisting Kaye.

AFEC thanks the YMCA for their support and also the Avoca Community Bank for their continued sponsorship.

Australia Day celebrations in the Pyrenees Shire will commence in Avoca with the Lions Club BBQ Breakfast
which commences at 8am so make sure you are on time to grab one of their famous egg and bacon/sausage breakies to eat while you catch up with family and friends. After the flag raising ceremony the Lions Club will announce their
Citizen of the Year.

 Then its off to Landsborough where the Pyrenees Shire and the Landsborough Progress Association will host the official Shire celebrations.
These will commence at the Landsborough Recreation Complex at 10am with morning tea and will be followed by the official flag raising, affirmation and an address by the Australia Day ambassador, Tony Beddison at 11:30.
Mr Beddison is chairman of the Beddison Group, a national recruiting and staffing organisation.
Following on with the tradition of an Aussie BBQ, those attending the ceremony are asked to make a day of it by staying for lunch and then joining in the Team Events that are planned for the afternoon. Communities within the shire are invited to gather a team of locals together to compete in the array of old time events: egg and spoon, 3 leggeed and sack races, hookey, quoits, tunnel ball, basketball goal throwing and the relatively new comer petanque. There are no special team number requirements ( 4 to 40! ) and members of the team can elect to compete in which every (or all) they wish.
Winners of the team events will be announced at 3:30pm

AVOCA POOL PARTY
Avoca residents who don't venture to Landsborough are invited to attend the Avoca Festival & Events Australia Day Pool Party which will commence at 12noon.
There will be lots of fun activities both in the water and out with the large inflatable making a return, water races, face painting, prizes, music and of course a BBQ tea from 5pm.
Cost is normal entry to the pool and season tickets apply.
There will be a raffle ($1) for a season's ticket to the Avoca Pool for season 2010 -11. Proceeds to be used to purchase equipment for the pool.

 All in all a great day in the Pyrenees Shire for residents and visitors to the region, so join in the fun and celebrate our special day with family and friends.

 At the recent AGM of the Maryborough District Health Services, President Jean Anderson, presented Long Services awards to staff from the Avoca Campus. 
(Left) Suzanne Barker, Glenda Thompson and Chris Gilfillan were all acknowledged for their 10 years of service.
Kath Harris (15 years) and Carol Gregson-Smith (20 years) were apologies on the evening.
Click for details of AGM

 At their last Monday morning assembly for 2009, Avoca Primary School welcomed  two special guests from the CWA, local cricketer, Gavan Hicks as well as many of the parents.

Principal Pat Tacey introduced CWA President June Hamer and Secretary Marilyn Szatmari to the assembly and June outlined the CWA’s commitment to recognising the achievements of two grade 5 students and supporting them with vouchers for $50 to assist with schools expenses in their final year at school.
 This year the awards went to Tiarna Parente and Rylan Jardine who both thankes the CWA for their support.

Below: Marilyn  and June congratulate Rylan and Tiarna  and both students were joined by proud parents Ian & Marg Jardine and Nicole Parente.