Judges of the Mathoura On The Map Committee’s annual Christmas Lights Competition had a difficult time selecting their number one choice in the House and Garden section, but in the end it went to Phoebe Keech of 33B Conargo Street.
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Congratulations to Phoebe (and her helpers)
The Mathoura General Store took out the Business Award, its first in the annual competition.
Congratulations to the decorators there.
The committee will be in touch to present the winners with their awards.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to take a drive around town to see the many great displays, particularly in Mathoura and Jones Streets.
There are plenty of places decorated that were not officially registered in the competition.
Well done to everyone.
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You know that Christmas is not far away when you encounter Santa with his reindeers and sleigh near the Mathoura Visitor and Business Centre.
It is the work of the crew from the Mathoura Men’s Shed, and a great surprise for those travelling the Cobb Highway.
However, this year has been even more special with horses featuring with Santa in a second display near the service station.
Congratulations to those responsible for this.
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Mathoura has again been saddened by the loss of another resident in what should have been the prime of his life.
He is Steve Allingham who passed away recently following a long illness.
An active member of the Mathoura Football Netball Club, he has been described as a valued lifelong player, coach and committee member.
This year the club honoured his strength and never give up attitude by naming its seconds’ Best & Fairest Medal in his name.
Deepest condolences are extended to his family, Veronica, Christopher, Nicky, Luna and Aster, Amanda, Greg. Max and James , Justin and Auburn, Bob and Sandra, and to all of his extended family
Funeral details are yet to be announced but a guard of honour will follow the service.
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Congratulations to Maci Celli who took out the Mathoura Public School Dux Award for 2023 last week.
The Citizenship Award went to Jobe Unwin while Georgie Taylor and Chanze Egan shared the Sports Award.
Two Art Awards presented on the night went to Charli Scaletti and Chad Ward.
Awards for Outstanding Effort and Achievement went to Billy Duggan, Zaria Wilson-Baker, Georgie Humphreys and Rosie Celli.
Harry Schultz was recognized for Outstanding effort while Zoe Glenn’s kindness was acknowledged
Katelyn Eddy and Johnathon Moorse were announced as School Captains for 2024 while house captains announced on the night were Khoa Unwin (Moira) and Bonnie Hullah (Gulpa).
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Carols In the Park on Sunday evening certainly ensured everyone was aware that Christmas is near – thanks to the performance by the Echuca Salvation Army and friends.
Those in attendance were also treated to barbecued sausages after Nicole Ward cooked up a storm on the barbecue trailer, after the committee was successful in submitting an expression of interest to council to acquire it.
It will also be handy on Australia Day when the group caters for breakfast.
Thanks to the Mathoura Rural Fire Service which provided transport for the old fellow in the red suit.
The brigade will be back out this Sunday night delivering sweets to youngsters throughout the town and out at the river.
You wont have to look out for them – listen for the sirens.
Thanks also to all who supported the collection taken up on the night to enable the Salvation Army to ensure district children don’t go without gifts under the tree on the big day.
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Congratulations to Helen Holzer who is Mathoura Bowling Club’s Ladies’ Singles Champion.
Helen defeated Marg Crowley in a good game to claim her crown.
The Men’s Club Singles Championship 25Up has also been played with Jason McCoy winning over Dennis McHarry.
Both winners will represent the club in the Champion of Champions for the region and are wished well.
Weekend pennant results saw Division 1 enjoy a 13 shot win over Echuca.
Division 1 clocked up a 10 shot win in the weekend competition (62 – 52) while Division 2 enjoyed a 9 shot win (62 – 53)
In the state bowls competition, Paul Clear missed out on victory by just two shots.
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As Christmas is upon us, I’d like to extend Christmas greetings to all and hope you have a great time with family and friends.
Mathoura Diary columnist.