The group’s major fundraising events, a High Tea and annual garden cart raffle, both generated substantial funds.
Throughout 2024 the Optimists have donated to 10 organisations.
Recipients include Moira Food Share, Finley High School Agriculture Department, Tocumwal Swimming Pool, Tocumwal Men’s Shed, Dutch Thunder Wildlife, Royal Flying Doctor Service (the local transport sector), Tocumwal Community Development Committee, Tocumwal Public School, Sacred Heart Primary School and Tocumwal Christmas Toy Appeal.
No result for Berrigan yet
Counting has slowed in the process to elect the final councillor for Berrigan Shire.
The race is still tight, however, with only 157 votes separating the highest vote getter and the lowest.
Sharon Dennis is still ahead in the polls with 1353 votes, or 35.2 per cent of the votes.
Not far behind is Trevor Hibbert with 1295, and then Myles Humphries with 1196.
The by-election was called after the council failed to get enough nominations to go to the polls for the scheduled local government elections in September.
All seven candidates were automatically elected after the election had concluded.
Fatal collision at Nathalia
A man has died in a single-vehicle crash at Nathalia.
Wangaratta Highway Patrol members are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
According to Victoria Police, the crash occurred about 6.35pm on Saturday, November 30.
The vehicle, a Nissan Pulsar, was travelling north on the Murray Valley Hwy when it reportedly veered off the road and struck a tree.
A 63 year-old Nathalia man, the sole occupant, died at the scene.
Victoria Police said the exact circumstances surrounding the crash were yet to be determined and investigations were ongoing.
Police will prepare a report for the coroner.
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