From Port Douglas to Perth, Adelaide to Sydney and all areas in between, there was success in top games and clubs, both at AFL level and in other state competitions.

The players are to be congratulated for their dedication and hard work as well as the sacrifice of parents, coaches and friends.  

I would also like to congratulate any other players who pulled on a boot and had a go in 2016.

Stuart’s article should be included in the archives of football history in its entirety as a record of a great year.

HOWARD RODDA

Former Chairman, VFL Western Region

VOTERS in the Horsham Rural City, Northern Grampians, Hindmarsh, Yarriambiack, West Wimmera and Ararat Rural City council areas should check the mail for their ballot packs for the local government elections from later this week.

People are encouraged to vote as early as possible.

With the whole election being conducted by post, it is incredibly important voters complete and return their ballot material as soon as possible to make sure their vote counts.

Ballot papers must be posted or hand-delivered to the election office by 6pm on Friday, October 21 or they cannot be counted.

Voters who have not received their ballot pack by Wednesday, October 12 should call 1300 586 069 during business hours to arrange a replacement.

Candidates who have nominated to stand for election are listed in the ballot packs and at vec.vic.gov.au/HorshamElection/Candidates

Where provided by candidates, a photo and statement will be included.

Voters can also view candidates’ answers to the candidate questionnaire online.

Voting is compulsory for voters who were on the state roll for the election at 4pm on Friday, August 26.

State-enrolled voters who do not vote may be fined.

Voters aged 70 years or older and council-enrolled voters are encouraged to vote but will not be fined if they do not vote.

GRAEME SARGENT

Returning Officer 

OLDER people living in western Victoria are encouraged to join in the celebrations in this year’s 34th seniors festival. 

Starting on October 2, the Victorian government initiative will see more than 1500 free and low-cost individual events and activities across the state. 

This year’s program features a range of entertainment, adventure and fun-focussed activities across the sports and the arts.

Across our region, planned events include two concerts by Colleen Hewett in Ararat and St Arnaud and an activities day at Dunmunkle Health Service at Minyip.

Western Victorian seniors are urged to take advantage of free travel on public transport across the state and make the most of the festivities.

Free travel will be available for Seniors Card holders from October 2 to 9.  

The 2016 seniors festival gives us the opportunity to celebrate the fantastic contribution older Victorians make to our community here in western Victoria.

We are proud to support the festival and initiatives like it.

Such initiatives help to ensure Victorians can age in a healthy and active way.

For more information about events and activities, visit www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au or pick up a free Victorian seniors festival program at libraries, council offices and neighbourhood houses.  

JAALA PULFORD

Member for Western Victoria