HARNESS Racing's return to Ouyen has been a "big success", says State Racing Minister Denis Napthine.
About 2000 people attended the track for the $25,000 Ouyen Pacing Cup last weekend.
"This has been a fantastic endorsement for harness racing in Ouyen and proves the previous Labor government's decision to close down six country tracks was a grave mistake," Dr Napthine said.
Mildura MP Peter Crisp said the club worked hard to have the Cup reinstated: "The Victorian Government is proud to have supported the return of harness racing to Ouyen by providing $75,550 to bring the track up to a safe standard."
Grant to cover study costs
SCHOOL leavers studying environmental management this year are being encouraged to apply for a $1500 study grant.
The Benalla Rural City Council Environment Study Grant is to help students cover study-related costs incurred during their first year of university, TAFE or training course.
Benalla Rural City Mayor Peter Dunn said the scholarship initiative would develop awareness and understanding of environmental conservation and sustainability issues.
"The scholarship is also designed to promote environmental conservation and sustainability studies as a rewarding and worthwhile career option," he said.
Applications close February 6.
Join centre crew
VOLUNTEERS are needed to operate the Dunolly emergency relief centre during a future crisis.
Central Goldfields Shire is calling for volunteers to operate the relief centre when, as has happened in the past, the town has been cut off from the shire's main town Maryborough.
Council municipal recovery manager John Kelly said the council had the plans and equipment in the town but needed people who lived in the area to be willing to set up and open the centre if required.
"These people would not be alone.
"The council will offer as much support as possible and will arrange training for all interested volunteers," Mr Kelly said.
For details phone Mr Kelly on 5461 0610.
Heritage cash
THIRTEEN community projects will share in more than $1.13 million worth of heritage grants.
State Planning Minister Matthew Guy said the grants, ranging from $8000 to $200,000, would help preserve and protect places and objects.
Mildura's former Methodist Church, in Deakin St, will receive $200,000 for urgent repairs to the parapet, brickwork and roof.
Benalla's old council offices in Mair St will get $144,000 for conservation.
Other work includes repairing the walls and roof of the Glengarry Mechanics Institute to ensure the community hall can be used again.
The projects are paid for by the Victorian Property Fund.
Cream of crop
THE Great South West Dairy Industry Honour Board will be unveiled at Glenormiston on April 26 to recognise some of the major contributors to the local industry.
The first group of inductees - Noorat farmer Niel Black, Murray Goulburn field services manager Peter Haynes, former Warrnambool Cheese and Butter managing director John McLean, Bessiebelle farmer John Pye and Sungold Field Days organiser Tony Rea - were announced last year.
The organisers hope to add new names to the list at the gala event. Nominations close February 17.
The honour roll is part of the Great South West Dairy Awards, which recognise those who have had a positive impact on dairying.
