Articles by Craig Wilson
Chairman steps down
LES Gason is arguably one of Ararat’s most significant businessmen.
For decades, he has been at the helm of local manufacturing business A.F. Gason.
He’s seen a lot of change and employed a lot of people since starting at the company more than 60 years ago, but just before Christmas he officially retired.
At 83, Les has held a leadership role at the business almost all of his life.
Class act
THE 2024 academic year has concluded with celebrations as the top-performing students from Marian College and Ararat College were recognised for their outstanding achievements. Will Edgar secured the title of Dux at Marian College with an impressive ATAR of 93.75. Reflecting on his achievement, Will expressed confidence in his abilities despite tackling challenging subjects like […]
Refurbishment funding for Gorrinn House
CHRISTMAS has come early for Gorrinn House Hostel with the Federal Government confirming a major grant to upgrade facilities.
Labor Senator Raff Ciccone said Gorrinn House Hostel was one of two aged care facilities in the Wannon electorate to receive a combined $1.8 million funding.
The vast majority of funding, $1.4 million has been allocated to Gorrinn House Hostel for equipment purchases and refurbishment of established rooms to complement a self-funded $7 million, 15-bed extension of the facility due to open next year.
“This funding is great news for Gorrinn House. The projects will support locals to access quality aged care services while remaining close to their families and cultural connections,” Senator Ciccone said.
Salvos leaders bid farewell
TWO respected leaders of Ararat’s Salvation Army Corps have been farewelled after more than a decade of service to the region.
Major Greg Turnbull and Major Lynne Turnbull, who came to Ararat in 2011, have recently been appointed to run the Salvation Army operation in their home town Echuca.
Members of the Ararat Salvation Army as well as community members and representatives of other churches gathered before Christmas to farewell the popular couple.
Major Greg Turnbull told the Advocate he will miss the community and its friendship.
Oncology Unit to mark 20 years of service
THE East Grampians Health Service Oncology Unit will mark 20 years of service to the Ararat and wider community in February.
The Oncology Unit will mark its 20th birthday with an afternoon tea on Wednesday February 11 at 3pm with an invitation extended to anyone who has been involved with the unit over the past 20 years, including patients, volunteers, donors and past staff.
More than 20 years ago, a need for oncology services locally was identified to allow people diagnosed with cancer to receive treatment closer to home without having to travel and stay in larger centres, causing even greater disruption to their lives.
In 2004 Professor George Kannourakis from Ballarat Oncology and Haematology was approached to provide an oncology treatment and outpatient service to the Ararat community and surrounding district.
In January 2005, thanks to generous donations from the community and funding, a fully equipped eight chair, day oncology unit was established in the south end of first floor (now the dialysis unit.)
Cut for cancer
A ten year-old Great Western student has embarked on an impressive journey to support young people with cancer.
Finlay Davidson from Great Western Primary School has raised an impressive $1,200 for cancer support.
She’s also made her own personal contribution by cutting her hair to contribute to wig-making.
With fundraising efforts starting in early November, Finlay reached her goal in under a month thanks to the support of family, friends and her community.
Mosque ready to open
ARARAT’s Islamic Community will soon have a new place to worship with the planned opening of the Ararat Mosque. The Mosque has been planned for close to a decade but construction was delayed due to COVID and compliance issues. Ararat Islamic Welfare Association has planned an opening ceremony and celebration for Sunday the 22nd of […]