The Community Voice, Go Nagambie | Wednesday April 10 2024, Issue 545

A GIFT OF SPEED

An historic chapter of Australia's oldest foot race was written on Easter weekend, as torrential rain caused havoc at the Stawell Gift. However, this didn't defy the athletes from KELFIT - Seymour's Pro Running Club.

The Stawell Gift is Australia's oldest and most lucrative short-distance race, which began in 1878. It takes place annually over the Easter long weekend in Stawell, Victoria, and attracts thousands of athletic enthusiasts and competitors from across Australia and beyond. The event features the fiercely contested 120-metre race, where participants compete for victory and a share of the substantial prize purse.

Every year during Easter, the charming town of Stawell attracts both skilled athletes and enthusiastic onlookers, all eager to witness the exhilarating display of swiftness and perseverance. Amidst the excitement, bookmakers contribute an additional layer of intrigue, woven into the event's vibrant and diverse tapestry, as betting enthusiasts try to predict the outcomes.

The competition covers a broad range of distances and includes both genders, from 70 to 3200 meters, highlighting a diverse array of running skills. The races take place on state-of-the-art surfaces, and sprint events happen in designated lanes marked by lane ropes. One of the most iconic features of the event is the finish gates, which etch unforgettable moments into the annals of the Gift's history.

In its pinnacle moment, the 120-metre sprint commands the nation's attention for a mere 12 seconds per gender, epitomizing the essence of speed and precision. The winners not only bask in the glory of their victory, but also receive significant cash prizes, solidifying the Stawell Gift's position as a toptier event on Australia's sporting calendar.

Familiar names to Nagambie of Breen (1894), Heath (1933) and Deane (1946) have each etched their way into Stawell Gift history winning the prestigious race.

Patrick Breen was born at Wahring and won the Stawell Gift in 1894. Patrick participated successfully in various local sports prior to winning the Gift. Fierce competition in pedestrian sport of the time involving wagers on results, and threats to participants, spoiled the sport for Patrick. Patrick Breens sister married into the Deane family and history now tells us that Tommy Deane carried the Breen ‘speed’ gene.

The Nagambie Museum has an excellent display of the Stawell Gift local winners including news clippings, medals and sashes, spikes and stop watches. You can visit the Nagambie Museum at 344 High Street, Nagambie during opening hours, 9.30-12.30pm Every Wednesday and Sunday, and the 1st Saturday of each month. You can contact the museum on 0428263929.

In 2024, get ready to witness the revival of track racing as Seymour's KELFIT running team renews their passion and competes in events across Victoria.

KELFIT was founded 3 years ago by Kelvin Lubeck, who is an Olympic level sprint and hurdle coach at level 3 internationally. He has an unparalleled passion for athletics in the region and is dedicated to inspiring athletes to achieve their full potential. His commitment to his work is truly commendable.

Continued on page 3.

Pictured: Local sprinter Hayden Anderson.

Pictured: Kelfit Season 2023-2024 L to R: Cooper Lubeck, Lucy Zotti, Hayden Anderson, Olivia Barry, Coach

Kelvin Lubeck, Mandessah Wyatt, Olivia Attard, Isabella Morgan and Ian Porter | Absent: Nic Davey

Letter to the Editor

I want to acknowledge the great work done by the Nagambie Historical Society. The district is very fortunate to have such a dedicated band of volunteers committed to recording, exhibiting and publicising our history.

I very much enjoy the articles which are periodically published into the Community Voice.

I was fascinated to read in the last edition reference to my great grandparents, William and Martha Baxter, who selected land at Wahring after emigrating from Raphoe, County Donegal, Ireland. They married in Kilmore in 1865 and are mentioned in the Wahring Roads Board (which preceded the Shire of Goulburn) rate book of 1869. They died in 1895 and 1928 respectively and their graves are in the Presbyterian section of the Nagambie Cemetery.

Whether William was the first selector in the Goulburn Valley as the article contends, I cannot say. It is not part of our family folk lore but may well be a fact. The land in question is now in the hands of the Verge and McNamara families.

He was apparently an early proponent of rights for women. In his 1894 Will, he bequeathed the proceeds of his life assurance policy in equal shares to his four daughters “without any interference by any husband whatsoever”.

My grandfather, Samuel, along with his brothers David and William went north in the first decade of the 1900s. Leaving the lush banks of the Goulburn River for the dry plains of pre-irrigation Nathalia is difficult to fathom but I suppose Greenbank could not sustain them all. Alexander and Herbert remained farming at Wahring.

My wife and I relocated to Nagambie five years ago for a number of reasons, not the least being the long standing family connection with the district. We are very glad we did so. I look forward to reading more from the Historical Society about the early days in Nagambie.

Bill Baxter Nagambie

Friends of Nagambie pool

I would like to report on our meeting today with the Shire, regarding the wrap up of the season. We met with the Shire and the representatives from all four pools to recap the past season and the plans for the coming season. Many learning experiences from what happened this season were discussed to enhance the running of the pools going forward. We greatly appreciate this Working Group that gives us all a say on our wonderful pool facilities in each of the townships.

There will be a large amount of capital works at each of the pools, Nagambie will be having a repaint and further works to fix leaking pipes, concrete path work and other improvements that we are very fortunate to have been allocated money in the current year’s budget.

Our main take away from the meeting, is the ongoing issue of Life Guards. The consensus of opinion was that we need a team to be recruited from Nagambie, being a duty manager and lifeguards that would be available to run the pool each season. Every season, we have a lack of life guards and this year, we had guards coming from long distances to be able to fill in our needs. Please consider training for this role, we need even retirees who are able to train and then fill in when we need to cover absences from the regular guards. This works very well at the Violet Town pool and the commitment needed depends on how often they would like to take on a shift, so not a full time position or requirement. If you are interested or know of anyone that may be willing to be part of our Nagambie Pool Life Guard team and would like to know more, please let me know and we can start working on getting our team ready, so we can open on the first day of the season, not like this season when we could not get staff at the opening on 1st December until December 27th 2023, losing all those days of December without the pool being open.

We will continue to campaign on social media and an ongoing article in the Community Voice to help us recruit this much needed team prior to next season.

Please email me on friendsofnagambiepool@ gmail.com or give me, Jill 0419567580 if you are interested in being a Friend of the pool or even “dip your toe in the water” as a life guard or just want to be on the email list to find out what is happening around the pool.

Further details on the duties of Lifeguards is available at: belgravialeisure.com.au/becomea-lifeguard/

Kelvin has had significant success in his coaching career. Some of his notable achievements include training Hayden Anderson, Lucy Zotti, and Poppy Robinson, all of whom were State gold medalists and national competitors. After a long break from athletics, many athletes from KELFIT have returned to the track to take up pro running. The handicapped system is based on their performance and ability. KELFIT started with just a few runners, but it continues to grow. In 2024, nine runners competed at the prestigious Stawell Gift. Olivia Attard won the final in the 1600 front markers, while Cooper Lubeck won the 800 Open final. Hayden Anderson finished second in the 100-meter open final.

Kelvins motto for the group is, “Everyone can run, only a few can do it right.”

The Community Voice recently interviewed Hayden Anderson and Cooper Lubeck to learn about their thoughts on the Stawell Gift.

Hayden Anderson, a talented athlete from Nagambie, has achieved remarkable success in his running career. Despite facing a setback when he tore his ACL at the age of 14 while playing football, Hayden stopped running for the next six years as he wasn’t really enjoying it. However, Kelvin Lubeck, persistently urged him to train with them every time they met.

“I was following the movement of the KELFIT squad and the great people involved so I decided to go back to running and it was the best decision I ever made.

The training regime becomes challenging when you have to balance it with your work and personal life.

“Once the season starts it is a pretty big commitment with training 4 days a week, 3 nights on the track and normally 1 evening session of Pilates.

The weather on Stawell Gift day was the worst ever seen.

“I have never seen rain come down as hard as it

did at Stawell. Half of the track was under water and I thought there’d be no way I’ll be running in this final.

“After sitting around for 1.5 hours they made the call to run. I stepped out onto the track to start warming up and it felt so wrong with my shoes full of water and water splashing up beside me with every step I took, it was far from ideal.

Hayden's hard work and dedication paid off as he finished in second position in his final. This achievement brought him immense joy and satisfaction. It's a testament to the fact that with perseverance and determination, one can overcome all obstacles.

“I can’t thank Kelvin Lubeck enough for believing in me and pushing me to come back to running. The effort he puts into all of the team is incredible. I have never enjoyed the sport more than I am right now and the whole KELFIT squad makes it even better.

“It may take a few seasons but the main goal is to be on that top step of the Stawell Gift podium, not just for me but for Kel and the team as well, it just means so much to us all,” ended Hayden.

Seymour Cooper Lubeck achieved success in the 800 Open final event with a close finish at the line.

“I didn’t really know if I won at the end because Jake was coming home strong and we hit the line together. It wasn’t

until I heard the squad running over that I knew I had won.

“It was a massive sense of pride and after all the rain and delays just getting out there putting it all behind me and just running my race I couldn’t be more thankful for my dad and whole team.

We asked Cooper what it was like to be coached by his father and it was clear there was a strong bond between a father and son, one that is built on a foundation of trust, respect, and admiration. It is a relationship that inspires many to pursue their dreams and to strive for greatness.

“It’s very tough being coached by your dad because you never know if he's trying to push you too hard or make it easier, but credit to him he put the right recipe together and we got it done.

“The fact I still live at home, work for him and is one of the assistant footy coaches we don’t spend much time apart. This one definitely goes out to Kelvin for sure.

"The Seymour Gift" is a new event scheduled to take place in December of 2024.

“The Seymour gift is being prepared by a strong committee, with Blair Collins as the president. He is fully capable and qualified to run a successful meet. The event is scheduled for Saturday, December 14 and we are expecting a great turnout.

“Sponsorships are crucial for these events and we will start to ramp up the fundraising process in the next month. There will be plenty on offer, not only on the track but food trucks, wine tastings and much more. Pencil this into the calendar!” Ended Cooper.

Pictured: Cooper Lubeck, 800m Stawell Gift Winner

Pictured: Hayden Anderson with coach Kelvin Lubeck

Pictured: Liv Barry mopping up the flooded track

Pictured: Cooper Lubeck with coach/father Kelvin Lubeck

Stawell

The collection can be viewed at the Nagambie Museum on High Street.

1 Perry Lane, Nagambie

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Mark Boyer 0418 941 628 Nagambie, Vic

Next Council meeting

The next meeting of Strathbogie Shire Council is scheduled be held on Tuesday 16 April 2024, commencing at 6.00pm at the Euroa Community Conference Centre – 1b Bury Street, Euroa.

The gallery will be open to the public. The meeting will be livestreamed at www. strathbogie.vic.gov.au and we encourage community members to watch the meeting via this option.

The agenda for this meeting will be available on Council's website by close of business the Friday prior to the meeting. Hard copies of the Agenda are no longer available − a limited number of iPads with the Agenda uploaded will be on hand for public use at the meeting.

Pet regos due now

Residents with registered pets will soon receive a notice in the mail. Cats and dogs aged three months or older must be registered with Council and must be microchipped prior to registration. Registrations are due for renewal by 10 April 2024.

Nagambie-Locksley Road closure

Work has commenced on road and bridge reconstruction at Charles Creek, Locksley. This road will be closed to through traffic with detours established on sealed roads during the construction period.

Local traffic will have access to NagambieLocksley Road from each end. Visit www. strathbogie.vic.gov.au for more information.

Calling for Volunteers: Nagambie Lakes and Euroa Visitor Information Centres

Do you have a passion for the local area? Would you like to share your knowledge? Council is calling for volunteers for its Visitor Information Centres. Be the first point of contact for visitors and assist them by answering a range of queries. Give guidance on the region’s attractions, things to see and do, directions around the district, accommodation, conference venues and retailers – and information about Victoria. Apply now by calling 1800 065 993

Construction work on Weir Road/Reedy Lake Road

Construction work on Weir Road/Reedy Lake Road has commenced. During this time traffic flow will be managed by traffic controllers and appropriate signage as applicable.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and anticipates works will be completed by the end of June 2024 − weather permitting.

If you have any questions please contact Council's Project Team on 1800 065 993.

Talk to the Administrator sessions

Sessions have already been held in Avenel,

Euroa and Nagambie. Violet Town is booked out and there is one timeslot still available for Strathbogie on Tuesday 7 May from 4.30 to 6.30pm at Strathbogie Memorial Hall: https:// events.humanitix.com/strathbogie-talk-tothe-administrator

These sessions have been a great opportunity for Administrator Peter Stephenson to get to know the community and to better understand their issues and concerns.

If you missed out on attending a session and would like to meet with the Administrator at another time please call our Customer Service team on 1800 065 993.

Recycle your textiles and reduce landfill

Take your old and unwanted textiles to our textile recovery boxes at our transfer stations in Avenel, Euroa, Nagambie, and Violet Town.

For opening hours and addresses check the website https://www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/ services/rubbish/transfer-stations/

Tenders now open

The following tenders are now open at Strathbogie Shire Council:

• Tree Maintenance Services − Panel of Suppliers Schedule of Rates, Panel of Suppliers Contract. (Contract Number 23/24-54) Council seeks tender submission from suitably experienced and qualified contractors to undertake various Tree Maintenance Services under a Panel of Suppliers arrangement. Tenders received until 4pm AEST Friday 12 April 2024.

• Strategic Land Use and Community & Deliberative Engagement Specialist (Contract Number 23/2461) Strathbogie Shire Council is seeking submissions from suitably experienced specialists in both Strategic Land Use and Community & Deliberative Engagement to assist with developing our Rural Residential Land Use Strategies & Urban Grown Strategy. Updated RFQ closing date (as per addendum 1) 4pm AEST Friday 19 April 2024.

• Refurbishment of Nagambie Comfort Station (contract number 23/23-64) Lump sum Contract. Council seeks tender submission from suitably experienced and qualified contractors to undertake refurbishment of the Nagambie Comfort Station, located in High Street Nagambie. Tenders received until 4pm AEST Monday 29 April 2024

Tenders may only be viewed and lodged online through the Tendersearch portal accessible via our website www.strathbogie. vic.gov.au. Please note Strathbogie Shire no longer accepts hardcopy tenders or RFQs and will not accept tenders by fax or email.

AEH Open Evening

On Thursday 21 March, Avenel Equine Hospital was delighted to extend an open invitation to the local community to showcase their facilities and provide an opportunity to meet the Avenel team.

Over 50 people attended this informal event with the evening kicking off with 3 short and informative presentations. Dr Bree Moloney covered the topic Advances in Equine Dentistry, Dr Zoe Walker shared information on Laminitis and Dr Stacey Sullivan covered Gastric Disease and Everything You Need to Know About Stomach Ulcers.

Following the presentations, all guests were taken on a tour of the new state of the art 24/7 surgery facilities and provided with a detailed explanation of what happens ‘behind the scenes’ at an equine veterinary hospital.

Director and Equine Specialist Surgeon, Dr Angus Adkins says ‘Avenel Equine Hospital was purchased 8 years ago by parent company Scone Equine Group, the largest equine veterinary practice in the Southern hemisphere. As a Group, we saw the opportunity to purchase this Victorian practice to establish a long term foothold in a growing equine region. Since our purchase we have continued to invest in our people and the facilities to cater for this growth.’

Avenel Equine Hospital is a full service equine hospital located in the heart of Victoria’s Thoroughbred breeding region, providing comprehensive services to equine clients in the local area (Avenel, Nagambie, Seymour and Euroa) and referrals from as far away as Queensland. Our services range from routine vaccinations and health checks for ponies to 24-hour-a-day intensive care for newborn foals, lameness evaluation for sport horses and assisted

reproduction. We provide full equine surgery and intensive care service, staffed by Specialists in Equine Medicine and Surgery. Our team is dedicated to caring for all horses, from elite athletes to loved companions, Olympians to pleasure horses, kids’ ponies to working horses and newborns to retirees.

In addition to the recently completed surgical facility we have also added a purpose built laboratory, and stabling for an additional 21 horses. Dr Adkins states ‘…..as the concentration of horses in the area increases, so too do the expectations of their owners for access to the latest veterinary knowledge and techniques. This development will allow us to expand our services in this region and keep at the forefront of equine veterinary science.”

For all your equine veterinary needs please call the clinic on 03 - 5796 2468 or refer to www.avenelequinehospital.com.au for further information on the services we offer.

Seymour College Library

Welcome from Student Leaders

Acknowledgement of Country

A student's journey - Prep to Year 12

Principal's Welcome

Foundation / Year 7 / Inclusive Ed / Pathways Info Sessions

Book in via the following link:

https://events.humanitix.com/seymour-college-open-day

Strathbogie Shire's CEO resigns

A significant announcement was made at Strathbogie Shire Council with Julie Salomon, the esteemed CEO, disclosing her decision to step down from her position, effective from the 4th of July, 2024.

Peter Stephenson, the Administrator of Strathbogie Shire, expressed deep gratitude for Julie Salomon's impactful leadership during her tenure. He highlighted her pivotal role in guiding the organization through a transformative phase of growth and development, characterized by numerous challenges and triumphs.

"‘During her tenure, Julie navigated the organisation through turbulent times, beginning with her arrival in 2020 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. She also managed challenges such as floods, severe storms, and addressing unacceptable Councillor behaviour, which led to the Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne, suspending the remaining Councillors.

"As CEO, Julie achieved remarkable results including saving $2 million on the Violet Town Landfill rehabilitation by successfully lobbying the Environmental Protection Authority to reclassify the site as low risk," Mr. Stephenson continued, underlining Salomon's strategic acumen and dedication to costeffective solutions.

Furthermore, Salomon's tenure was characterized by her commitment to overseeing major community-driven infrastructure projects and upgrades. Notable projects such as the Rockies Footbridge, the Nagambie Foreshore Walk, and streetscape enhancements in local towns were realized under her leadership. Additionally, her efforts extended to the establishment of essential facilities, such as toilet facilities, in various communities within the shire, enhancing the quality of life for residents.

Salomon's proactive approach also fostered valuable partnerships with neighboring councils, including Mansfield, Benalla, and Murrindindi Councils, as well as a strategic tourism collaboration with Mitchell Shire and Greater Shepparton City Council.

"Throughout her tenure, Julie implemented best practice communications strategies to encourage engagement," highlighted Mr. Stephenson, underscoring Salomon's commitment to transparent and inclusive governance. Initiatives such as the 120-strong Community Panel and the 'Pitch my Project' initiative, which funded over 30 major projects throughout the shire.

Reflecting on his personal experience working alongside Julie Salomon, Mr. Stephenson expressed admiration for her professionalism and collegiality. He extended his heartfelt thanks and best wishes to Salomon as she embarks on a new chapter.

"With Julie's resignation and organizational transition, it prompts us to focus on selecting the best candidates for the October Local Government election, as well as initiating the search for a new CEO,’ concluded Mr. Stephenson.

Council road works in Goulburn Street

Nagambie residents are advised that pedestrian crossing works will be undertaken this week in Goulburn Street opposite the primary school. Strathbogie Shire Council apologises for any inconvenience.

School crossing removal discussion rages

Flashback to the September 19, 2023 meeting of Strathbogie Shire that saw Mayor Laura Binks cast the deciding vote to rule out funding the school crossing supervisor at Nagambie Primary School.

Voting in favour of supporting the motion to withdraw from funding the school crossing supervisor at Goulburn Street Nagambie was Cr Raeburn, Cr HayesBurke and Cr Binks who held the casting vote.

Voting Against the Motion to withdraw from funding the school crossing supervisor at Goulburn Street Nagambie were Cr Murray, Cr Dickinson and Cr Weatherald.

The cost to deliver the service at Nagambie primary school as per shire meeting was estimated ‘around 15 to 20 thousand dollars’.

It was at its 21 March 2023 meeting that Strathbogie Shire Council resolved to exit the school crossing supervisor program which was jointly funded by both council and state government.

The motion carried by Strathbogie Council:

• Maintain its previous position, as endorsed at the 21 March 2023 Council meeting, of exiting the School Crossing Program; and

• Note that officers will undertake an independent Road Safety Audit, commencing on Monday 2 October 2023, to determine the most appropriate road safety infrastructure measures for the Goulburn Street, Nagambie, school crossing, and receive

a further report at the October/November 2023 Council meeting.

Fast forward to April 2024 - The community of Nagmabie is puzzled by traffic management signs with wording advertising the impending removal of school crossings.

“CROSSING

REMOVAL 8/4 - 12/4”

Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland writes on her facebook thread -”I have just been informed by the Minister for Roads that the VicRoads signs alerting to the removal of school crossings should NOT have gone up while the decision to fund the school crossings in Strathbogie Shire is unresolved.

“The signs should be taken down immediately until the matter is resolved. Strathbogie Shire has been asked to review its decision to pull out of the school crossing program, and while this is happening, the Department of Transport & Planning (DTP) has been undertaking capital works to make the crossings safer.

“Following our community’s advocacy, the State Government has funded the entirety of the school crossing supervisors for term one, and I’ve asked both the council and the DTP to resolve this as a matter of urgency ahead of next term commencing.

“The Minister has requested the signs be taken down until the Strathbogie Shire administrator has advised his decision to reinstate funding.

“I have to say that I share the community's frustration with what I saw as an ill-informed and

reckless decision by the council to withdraw from the program to begin with. One year on from the decision, it remains a pingpong match between the state government and the council regarding who will fund the program.”

The traffic management signs advising the public of the removal of the crossing were switched off and no works have commenced as of 9am Monday April 8th.

In welcome news a Victorian Government spokesperson said, “We will continue to provide school crossing supervisors for Avenel Primary and St Joseph’s Primary to ensure the school community remains safe.”

The Administrator of Strathbogie Shire Council is being asked to review the decision to exit the program by the State Government which was part of a longstanding partnership that was made in 1975

Community consultation will be undertaken over the coming months and the needs of each location will be considered.

Lights, Action, Let’s Play!

Good news about the lighting finally being installed at the Recreation Reserve. Thanks to lots of hard work, lobbying, grants and Shire assistance, the state of the art lighting is finally almost ready to be turned on.

The towers have been put in place, now we are waiting for the electricity supply to be completed.

The lights will be night cricket competition standard that will allow many more events to be held. The night time playing opportunities will be a bonus to our clubs that are growing in numbers and many other functions will be possible to run in the evenings.

The sporting groups currently using the ground would be able to utilise them, along with new up and coming teams. This would offer many more opportunities for use of the Recreation Reserve in the evenings .

Appreciation is expressed to the Shire for working on the upgrades promised for the area, and the new drainage has been completed, that should assist the car park and in generally improving the standard of the facility. There will be many possibilities including night markets, social functions, competitions etc etc. This will be a huge benefit to Nagambie Community.

Potholes on the GV Freeway

In the heart of the Goulburn Valley region lies a vital artery that binds our communities together—the Goulburn Valley Freeway. Yet, beneath its asphalt surface, an alarming reality unfolds. Potholes, like insidious craters, have multiplied along its length, presenting an ever-growing hazard to motorists and their vehicles. This state of disrepair not only jeopardizes our safety but also undermines the economic and social fabric of our region.

Traversing the Goulburn Valley Freeway has become a test of nerves and skill for drivers. Potholes, ranging from small divots to deep chasms, litter the roadway with alarming frequency. Negotiating these obstacles requires constant vigilance, as a momentary lapse in attention could result in a collision or vehicular damage. The toll on drivers' nerves is matched only by the toll on their wallets, as repairs stemming from encounters with these road hazards can be both costly and disruptive.

But this issue goes beyond mere inconvenience— it strikes at the heart of our community's wellbeing. The deterioration of the Goulburn Valley Freeway reflects a broader pattern of neglect in infrastructure maintenance. Despite being a lifeline for our region, this vital thoroughfare has been relegated to the back burner, overshadowed by more visible and politically expedient projects.

The question that begs to be answered is: why has our freeway been allowed to reach such a state of disrepair? The answer lies in a lack of prioritisation and investment in basic infrastructure. While funds are funnelled into high-profile initiatives, the mundane task of maintaining our roads is neglected. It's a shortsighted approach that jeopardizes not only our

safety but also our economic prosperity. However, we cannot afford to resign ourselves to this fate. The safety of our community is non-negotiable, and the state of the Goulburn Valley Freeway demands immediate attention and action. Addressing this issue requires more than just patchwork solutions—it demands a comprehensive strategy that prioritizes long-term maintenance and investment.

First and foremost, we must hold our leaders accountable for their stewardship of our infrastructure. They must be reminded that their primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and well-being of their constituents. Secondly, we must advocate for increased funding and resources dedicated to road maintenance. This means pushing for more robust infrastructure budgets and innovative approaches to repair and rehabilitation.

Moreover, community engagement is essential in effecting lasting change. By mobilizing public support and raising awareness about the urgency of this issue, we can exert pressure on decision-makers to prioritize the Goulburn Valley Freeways rehabilitation. Together, we can ensure that our voices are heard and that our concerns are addressed.

In conclusion, the state of the Goulburn Valley Freeway is a symptom of a broader problem—an issue of neglect and misplaced priorities. However, it also presents an opportunity for collective action and advocacy. By uniting our efforts and demanding accountability from our leaders, we can reclaim our highway as a symbol of safety, connectivity, and prosperity for generations to come. The road ahead may be fraught with challenges, but with determination and resolve, we can pave the way for a brighter future.

Article contributed

Unreliability of the Seymour train line

As a regular commuter on the Seymour Line, it pains me to express the frustration and disappointment I, along with countless others, have endured due to the consistently unreliable train services. The seemingly perpetual cycle of delays, cancellations, and overcrowded carriages has reached a breaking point for many of us who rely on this vital mode of transportation.

The Seymour Line, once envisioned as a lifeline connecting commuters to their destinations efficiently and reliably, has devolved into a source of exasperation and inconvenience.

Despite the hefty myki prices we pay, we are subjected to a service that fails to meet even the most basic expectations of punctuality and comfort.

One of the most infuriating aspects of this ordeal is the lack of transparency and accountability from the authorities responsible for managing the train services. We are often left in the dark about the causes of delays or cancellations, with vague announcements offering little solace to frustrated passengers. It feels as though our concerns are brushed aside, and our voices go unheard.

The unreliability of the Seymour Line not only disrupts our daily routines but also undermines our faith in the public transportation system as a whole. Many commuters, myself included, have been forced to make alternative arrangements, whether it be driving, carpooling, or resorting to other forms of transport, just to avoid the uncertainty of relying on the trains.

For me personally, the unreliability of the trains on the Seymour Line has forced me to seek alternative means of transportation to reach my university. Instead of relying on the train, I am now forced to catch a bus, which significantly lengthens my commute time. What was once a manageable journey has now turned into a cumbersome ordeal, often resulting in a two-anda-half-hour trip that makes me late to class. This not only affects my academic performance but also adds unnecessary stress to my already hectic schedule.

Furthermore, the impact of these unreliable services extends beyond mere inconvenience.

New Community Grants and Sponsorship Application Hub

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Missed appointments, late arrivals at work, and strained personal relationships are just some of the collateral damage inflicted upon commuters as a result of the constant disruptions. It is unacceptable that we are forced to bear the brunt of these consequences due to the incompetence or negligence of those tasked with managing the train services.

Moreover, there must be greater accountability for the failings of the train services. Those responsible for overseeing the operation of the Seymour Line must be held to account for their shortcomings, and measures should be put in place to ensure that such failures are not repeated in the future.

As commuters, we deserve better. We deserve a train service that is reliable, efficient, and respectful of the valuable time and money we invest in it. The current state of affairs on the Seymour Line is simply unacceptable, and it is incumbent upon the authorities to take decisive action to restore faith in our public transportation system.

In conclusion, the unreliability of the trains on the Seymour Line is not merely an inconvenience; it is a systemic failure that has profound implications for the lives of commuters. It is time for those in power to prioritise the needs of the people they serve and deliver the reliable and efficient train service we deserve. Anything less is simply unacceptable.

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Remembering Our Heroes

Federal Member for Nicholls, Mr. Sam Birrell MP, has expressed his appreciation for the allocation of over $21,000 in Federal Funding to local organizations dedicated to honoring veterans and their families. This funding, provided through the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program Round 2, 2023-24, signifies a significant investment in projects aimed at preserving the memory and contributions of those who have served their country.

Among the recipients of this funding are the Numurkah and District Historical Society Inc, the Waaia Community Plan Committee Inc, and the Cobram Barooga RSL Sub-Branch Inc. Each organization has been awarded a specific grant amount to facilitate projects that commemorate the bravery and sacrifices of local veterans.

The Numurkah and District Historical Society Inc. has been granted $10,000 to support the restoration of the Strathmerton Methodist Church Honour Board. This initiative aims to ensure that the names of local veterans are preserved and honored for generations to come, serving as a tangible reminder of their service.

Similarly, the Waaia Community Plan Committee Inc. has received $4,290 to install a First World War plaque in Waaia. This plaque will serve as a permanent tribute to the individuals from the community who served during this pivotal period in history.

Furthermore, the Cobram Barooga RSL Sub-Branch Inc. has been awarded $7,040 to install a new War Memorial, dedicated to commemorating locals who served in both the First and Second World Wars. This memorial will stand as a solemn symbol of remembrance, ensuring that the sacrifices of these individuals are never forgotten.

In expressing his gratitude for the funding allocation, Mr. Birrell emphasized the importance of these projects in preserving the legacy of local war heroes and their families. He commended the dedication and efforts of the participating organizations, recognizing their role in bringing these meaningful projects to fruition.

"It's important these groups are supported to ensure veterans have a lasting legacy in our regional communities," Mr. Birrell remarked, underscoring the significance of honoring the contributions of veterans.

Looking ahead, Mr. Birrell encouraged other community groups to apply for grant funding for similar projects in the future. He highlighted the availability of two grant opportunities, with funding ranging from $10,000 for local community projects to up to $150,000 for major commemorative projects.

The funding provided through the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program plays a crucial role in promoting appreciation and understanding of Australia's wartime heritage. It enables groups and individuals to preserve and share the experiences of service and the invaluable roles played by those who have served their country

As applications for the next round of grants close on June 20th, 2024, Mr. Birrell urged interested parties to visit the provided link for more information on how to apply and contribute to the ongoing commemoration of Australia's veterans.

Applications for the next round of grants close June 20th 2024.

For more information visit - https://www. grants.gov.au/Go/Show?GoUuid=8f80a57c4453-4014-8ef3-7ce786b356d7

The 2024 Strathbogie Shire Business Awards return in 2024

The 2024 Strathbogie Shire Business Awards return in 2024 where local businesses are acknowledged over their achievements in recent years.

The 2024 Strathbogie Shire Business Awards will be held on Friday, 23 August, the event aimed at creating a basis to support and encourage business development, improvement and diversity, and to help boost the region’s economic development.

Run in conjunction with Business Euroa and Go Nagambie the event is not just about ‘the best businesses’ – it’s also a great networking opportunity for business representatives, from all walks of life, to get together to hopefully work together in the future.

Nominations open on Friday for the seven Business Award categories, which are Service Excellence, Tourism Excellence, Employee Recognition, Excellence in Agriculture, Youth Recognition/ Apprenticeship Award, Small Business Award, Large Business Award.

The event is also looking for sponsors, with several packages available - please visit the website for more

information.

WHERE YOU CAN NOMINATE -

Online: www.visiteuroa.org.au/business-awards or gonagambie.com.au

Email: business.euroa@gmail.com or hello. gonagambie@gmail.com

Post: Go Nagambie, PO Box 71, Nagambie 3608

Post: EUROA CHAMBER P.O. Box 322 Euroa, 3666

NOMINATIONS CLOSE - MAY 10th

Works on Avenel Road Bridge:

Since January, the closure of the Avenel Road bridge has disrupted local traffic patterns, a consequence of the ongoing inland rail construction project slated to last up to 12 months. This endeavour aims to overhaul the existing bridge infrastructure to accommodate the passage of double-stacked freight trains, a necessity for enhancing regional transportation efficiency. The replacement bridge, positioned in the same location as its predecessor, promises not only to facilitate the safe transit of heavier loads but also to optimise traffic flow along this vital route.

The new bridge design features a 35-metre span, towering approximately 3.2 metres higher than its predecessor. This elevation upgrade is a strategic move to accommodate the taller freight trains, a testament to modern engineering prowess. Moreover, the project incorporates environmentally conscious elements, such as embankments that harmonise with the surrounding landscape and retaining walls aimed at minimising disruption to Avenel Road.

Central to the construction efforts are ongoing activities like piling and formwork for the new bridge abutments. These tasks involve penetrating deep into the earth to fortify the bridge's foundations, ensuring its longevity and structural integrity. To gauge the track's performance amidst these transformative efforts, test trains will traverse the rail line adjacent to the new bridge, a critical measure to assess and fine-tune operational aspects before passenger services can resume.

The construction zone teems with a variety of heavy and light

vehicles, including trucks, cranes, loaders, excavators, and rollers, each playing a pivotal role in the project's execution. Their synchronised efforts underscore the magnitude of the undertaking and its impact on the local landscape.

For residents and commuters, the construction timeline ushers in certain expectations and adjustments. Operating hours from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, with potential weekend work from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., ensure a steady cadence of activity. While construction noise during daylight hours may pose a temporary inconvenience, mitigation measures are in place to alleviate disturbances. Access to Granville Drive for businesses and local traffic remains unaffected, albeit with potential minor delays due to construction-related vehicle movements. Furthermore, approved vegetation removal within the construction zone is necessary to accommodate the project's footprint, a concession made in the name of progress.

The closure of the Seymour-Avenel Road bridge for the duration of construction necessitates a detour via Avenel Road, redirecting traffic flow and necessitating temporary adjustments for locals and travellers alike. However, proactive measures, such as on-site water carts to manage dust levels and stringent traffic management protocols, mitigate potential disruptions and prioritise safety for all stakeholders. Additionally, environmental controls are rigorously enforced to safeguard the surrounding ecosystem throughout the construction process.

In essence, the Avenel Road bridge construction project symbolises both progress and inconvenience—a testament to the region's commitment to modernising its infrastructure while navigating the temporary disruptions inherent in such transformative endeavours. Through collaborative efforts and proactive measures, the community looks forward to the eventual completion of this project, heralding a new era of enhanced transportation efficiency and connectivity for all.

Work being done

Works will involve ongoing piling and concrete formwork for the new bridge abutments.

Piling involves drilling deep into the ground to strengthen the new bridge foundations.

Work will also start on the approach roads either side of the bridge. A test train will run up and down the rail line near the SeymourAvenel Road bridge site to assess the track performance. This is required following the completion of track slew works to shift the track horizontally, and must be undertaken prior to passenger services returning to the line.

What can I expect

Construction work 7am-6pm Monday to Friday, and potential weekends 7am-5pm

Construction noise during daylight hours, with mitigation measures in place

Business and local traffic access to Granville Drive will be maintained

Trucks and other vehicles entering and exiting the construction site, may cause minor traffic delays

Approved vegetation removal in the project area

Heavy machinery and equipment operating onsite

Delivery of materials and equipment

Seymour-Avenel Road bridge closed, with detour in place via Avenel Road.

Machinery used

Heavy and light vehicles including trucks, cranes, loaders, excavators and rollers will be used within the works area.

How we’re managing impacts

Water carts will be onsite to wet down areas to assist in managing dust Traffic management will be in place to ensure safe access for all road users where required

Environmental controls in place.

https://inlandrail.artc.com.au/seymour-avenel-road-bridgeworks-april-2024/

Church News

ANGLICAN: Normal Sunday Communion services will be held at Christ Church Seymour at 9am and St John’s Nagambie at 11 am. Everyone is welcome to join us for a traditional Anglican Communion service.

POC. Rev. Richard Pennington 0477 921 111

CATHOLIC: Rosary at Nagambie St Malachy’s. Mondays 10.30am & Wednesday noon.

1st and 3rd Sundays 9.00am Mass. 2nd, 4th & 5th Sundays 9am. Word & Communion. W.Keenan. 0459 595 908.

Avenel St Mary’s. Sundays 10.30am Rosary. 1st & 3rd Sundays 11am Mass 2nd & 4th & 5th Sundays 11.00am Word and Communion. G.Kenworthy. 0405 125 963.

UNITING: Seymour & Avenel Uniting Church. Sunday Combined service at 10am Avenel. POC Rev. J. Payne. 0408 176 754.

PRESBYTERIAN: St Andrew’s Nagambie Church services. Sundays 11am. B.Georges POC on 0423 886 692 or W.Day. 0429 933 116. St. Andrew’s Seymour. 9am service. POC Bert Zandt 0403 029 910.

NAGAMBIE CONNECT FAITH

COMMUNITY NEWS: (Uniting Church) 2nd & 4th Sundays, 9.30am, Nagambie Senior Citizens' Clubrooms. R.Close. 0402 286 277

WORSHIP AND PRAYER: Nagambie. At the home of Anna and Phil Close. At 229 High Street, Nagambie. 7.00pm - 8.00pm, every third Sunday of the month. Open to everyone. POC Anna Close, 0437 347 203.

Community lunch to address emergency management

The Strathbogie Tableland Local Emergency Action Plan (LEAP) Steering Group will host its first community meeting with a lunch on Sunday April 21, 2024. This free community lunch will be where residents can learn more and have their say on a range of local emergency management issues. This gathered information will form Strathbogie’s own LEAPing into Resilience document.

As part of the LEAPing into Resilience Project, the Strathbogie community meeting comes after the same process has been successfully undertaken in Violet Town, Avenel and Euroa and is in the initial stages for the Nagambie community.

Strathbogie Shire Council Administrator Peter Stephenson said the LEAP Program is a fantastic way for the community to document and manage their own emergency.

“The LEAP project team has worked closely with three of our communities Violet Town, Avenel and Euroa to complete their plans and I encourage Strathbogie Tableland residents to assist their steering group with their emergency preparedness feedback for their town.

“Locals possess valuable knowledge, such as escape routes and identifying vulnerable community members, which is essential in crafting effective emergency action plans tailored to each community’s needs,” he said.

The steering groups have received guidance from Danna Lezcano, the project’s Resilience Planning Officer, and Mark Leitinger, the Emergency Management Officer for Strathbogie Shire Council. The plans will remain dynamic, subject to annual amendments, ensuring their relevance and efficacy.

Collaboration among the municipalities of Strathbogie, Mansfield, and Murrindindi has been instrumental in supporting communities to prepare for emergencies, including extreme weather events, and other disasters.

The LEAPing into Resilience project stands as a testament to this joint initiative, driven by the shared goal of enhancing community preparedness and resilience.

RSVP by 17 April (with any dietary or accessibility requirements) to: Danna Lezcano (Resilience Planning Officer) Email: dlezcano@murrindindi.vic.gov.

auTelephone: (03) 5772 0333

LEAPing into Resilience is a three-year project funded by the Federal Government in collaboration with Mansfield and Murrindindi Shire Councils.

Nagambie Senior CIitizens

We are planning a bus trip to the Old Beechworth Goal on 2nd May, watch for further details on the noticeboard or in the newsletter, this should be a very interesting outing.

Another celebration to be held, is our Mother’s Day High Tea on Monday 13th May (day after Mother’s Day, just to extend the celebration of motherhood!) We are heading to Araminta’s Tea Rooms in Seymour.

Kilmore Harness Racing is also planned for 13th June, this will be for a meal and watch the races at their Trackside venue. Again further details to come. The newsletter is sent to all members via email (for those who don’t have email, we have a pick up point at the Post Office, Info Centre and NLCH.

We are very fortunate to have a very experienced Welfare Officer on our team at the Seniors’ and would appreciate any members that are aware of someone who may need some help or someone to talk to, please let us know either by email or give me a call, number below. She has been doing a great job, and I am sure those who have enjoyed a visit from her, are very appreciative.

Movie Day is held on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 1pm. The next screening is Tuesday 9th April is “The Blind Side” and Tuesday, 23rd April will be “The Railway Men”. Hope to see you there for the show and an ice cream at interval.

Line Dancing continues to be popular, and the twice a week times are Wednesday and Friday at 9.30am. Friday features a Beginners section for half an hour for a great introduction to this fantastic activity, that is good for brain and physical exercises. Come and try and you will get hooked. The group will be enjoying a luncheon at Zephyrz on 19th April.

The Tai Chi and Get Moving exercise group is always

a great way to get some exercise as well, all abilities are catered for, so come along and see what you are able to do. Move it or lose it!! Monday and Friday at 9.30 for Tai Chi and 10.00 for Get Moving. Just come for the music and the cuppa afterwards if you don’t want to exercise!! All Welcome.

Table Tennis is held on Wednesday evenings at 7pm, open to the public, catering for all ages and skill abilities. Small group size at present, but able to put up more tables if required.

I am happy to email any interested people who would like to receive the newsletter monthly. We also have collection points around town, at the Post Office, the Info Centre, and NLCH. Pick up a copy or email nagambieseniors@gmail.com to go on the list. Or phone Jill on 0419 567 580

We also wish to thank Go Nagambie for including our Club details on their website, check it out.

https://www.gonagambie.com.au/live/communitygroups-and-clubs/nagambie-seniors

St Joseph's Primary

Fundraising for Caritas Australia

Throughout Lent we have given the students lots of opportunities to raise money for charity. These included two hot dog days, Zooper Dooper Tuesdays and Thursdays, as well as a guess the lollies in the jar competition. Along with this, we also had an amazing Easter egg raffle which altogether raised over $500 to Caritas Australia!

Easter Celebrations

We ended term 1 with all students participating in the Stations of the Cross, performing the many stages of Holy Week. Their performances were heartfelt and meaningful and we were very impressed with their understanding of this most important celebration.

Following this, the students and their younger siblings were involved in an Easter egg hunt, where their kindness and generosity was beautiful to witness.

Cross Country

On Monday March 25th we travelled to St Luke’s in Shepparton for our Cross Country. Our students participated with enthusiasm and gave their best effort. We would like to congratulate Charlie, who came first in the Foundation group, Ruby for her second placing and Sebastian for coming third. What was even better was the camaraderie shown by everyone. We were so proud of each and every student.

Avenel Primary

On Thursday 21st March we ran a Food Fight afternoon to raise money for the Foodbank. It was a huge success with the students (and staff!) having a brilliant time on the oval. The music was playing and everyone was in a great mood as our students, and a few brave parents, walked, ran or jogged around the course as “food” (coloured chalk and slime) was hurled in their direction. Mr Davis got slimed at the end of the session because we reached our target of raising $10,000. One of our school values is to’ Give Something Back’ and we really smashed this by raising $12,257 for the Foodbank charity.

Gr 3 students loved their camp at the Outdoor School 15 Mile Creek

For the last week of term, our Gr 3 students enjoyed their camp at the wonderful Outdoor School 15 Mile Creek campus at Greta. This has been a part of our school for 15 years, and once again our students

enjoyed outdoor adventure activities while learning about themselves and the natural environment, with the theme ‘Challenge & Grow’. Activities included bike riding, flying fox, bushwalks, rock climbing and playing and swimming in a mountain creek.

Nagambie Pre School

Photographed by: Love By Lou Photography

Little Athletics Nagambie wrap

A couple of weeks ago

Little Athletics Nagambie celebrated the end of season with a presentation ceremony and BBQ. And what a season we have had! We went into our 2nd season with increased registrations of 60 participants. This included a number of older athletes join the club which was very exciting as well as welcoming all our Under 6 kids with their first season.

For the season we had a total of 1,010 Pb’s and 137 centre records broken throughout the season. This is amazing, a huge well done to all the kids for being their best and striving to improve each week, this is what Little Aths is all about.

The evening included presenting our Age group champions for the Championship rounds that were ran in the last 3 weeks of the season. These are

run on a point system for Personal Bests achieved (5 points) along with points for 1st, 2nd and 3rd placed (3,2,1 points).

Big congratulation to our winners -

Under 6 Boys: Teddie Caldow

Under 6 girls: Ruby Hall

Under 7 boys: Finley Gilliand

under 7 girls - Scout Roberts

Under 8 boys - Riley Embury (53)

Under 8 girls - Isabelle Lloyd (46)

under 9 boys - George Llyoyd

Under 9 girls - Emmerson Matthews (45)

Under 10 boys - Morgan Coll

Under 10 girls - Maggie Saunders (40)

Under 11/ 12 boys - (Tie) Sebastian Garrett and Henry Lloyd

Under 11/12 girls - Leila Thompson

Most improved Boy and Girl: This based on the highest amount of PB’s for the season across all the age groups: Girl: Leila Thompson 32 PB’s

Boy: Sebastian Garrett 28 Pb’s

We also introduced a new award this seasonNagambie Little Athletics Sportsperson of the year award.

This award went to an athlete who has shown all the qualities of what Little Athletics is about. Every week she tries her absolute hardest, she never gives up and she always has a smile on her face and has fun. Recently she set a goal to run the 800m without stopping , not only did she succeed but she smashed her PB that week. This award went to Maggie Saunders.

A huge thank you to our committee for all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes. We appreciate your tireless time and effort to ensure our little athletes have a fun morning competing. A big thank you to all the Little Athletic competitors we are all so proud of each and everyone of you. We have witnessed some absolutely beautiful sportsmanship from the kids throughout the season encouraging their team mates and being so supportive of each other.

To Maree, Principal of St Joeys. For letting us use the grounds each week, opening up the gates and toilets for us and just for the ongoing support of our

club. It means so much to us that we can run this club with your support.

Catrina Hutton, Treasuerer. For all your time and effort put into the club. You are not only the face of the club in each week but you do all the back end work that goes in to actually run a successful club. We don't know what we would do without you and can not thank you enough.

Lastly but certainly not least - Clare Garrett our President. Your ongoing commitment to the club is unwavering. You go above and beyond to make sure our club, members and little aths competitors are catered for all season long. You put in so much effort leading up to the season and during the season with event scheduling, equipment organisation, rostering helpers each week, points and PB's systems, marketing, sponsorship - the list going on! We are so lucky to have you.

We will be back in October and we hope that we see you all back here for another fun season. Keep an eye on our Facebook page as we will aim to run some Cross Country events during the winter again. We will also be holding our AGM in the next few months so please come and join our committee. We would love some new faces to help us keep growing and improving the club. Enjoy the winter sports season.

Nagambie Mens Golf

Apr 1, 2024

Easter Sunday is possibly the holiest day of the year for the christian faith where miracles are not uncommon, that was certainly the case at the Nagambie golf club when John Hurley won the par event with an equal best par score of the year +4, they say practice makes perfect but this is not the case for Hurley but his practice has improved him great work John. Runner up went to Mick O'Connell with an excellent +3 result, O'Connells concentration and focus over the ball providing his best return in sometime, rounding out the top three was playing partner Hugh Lawrence also with a +3, Lawrence appears to be sharpening his game for a tilt at next week's grade championship. The nearest the pin prizes went to Hugh Lawrence with a smart strike up tp the hard to hit 3rd, Harold Rayner displaying some power off the tee at the long par three 8th, Graeme Keogh topping off a good day with splendid shot onto the 13th and the unwavering focus of Mick O'Connell going super close on the 16th. Next week's golf is the 1st round of the 2024 club championships, the championships will run over three consecutive week's with hit off moved to the winter tee time of 9.00 to 9.30am, on office duty is J. Ezard and in the bar W. Leviston.

Easter Sunday dawned upon the Nagambie Golf Club, bringing with it a sense of anticipation and wonder. As golfers gathered to partake in the day's festivities, little did they know that they were in for a remarkable display of skill and camaraderie.

In the midst of this holiest of Christian celebrations, John Hurley emerged as the unexpected hero of the par event, clinching victory with an outstanding +4 score. Despite not being known for his rigorous practice routine, Hurley's natural talent and dedication shone through, earning him accolades from fellow competitors and spectators alike.

Hot on his heels were Mick O'Connell and Hugh Lawrence, who both secured impressive +3 scores, securing their positions as runners-up. O'Connell's unwavering focus and Lawrence's strategic play hinted at future successes, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.

Throughout the day, the course bore witness to moments of sheer brilliance as golfers showcased their skills. Whether it was Hugh Lawrence's pinpoint accuracy on the 3rd hole, Harold Rayner's powerful tee shot on the 8th, Graeme Keogh's finesse on the 13th, or Mick O'Connell's precision on the 16th, each stroke was a testament to the talent and dedication present on the course.

Looking forward, excitement mounts as the Nagambie Golf Club prepares to host the 2024 club championships, slated to begin next week. With winter tee times set to add a new dimension to the game, players eagerly anticipate the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead. As preparations for the championship are underway, the diligent oversight of J. Ezard and the welcoming atmosphere cultivated by W. Leviston ensure that both on and off the course, the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship remains paramount.

In retrospect, Easter Sunday at the Nagambie Golf Club was not just a day of competition, but a celebration of the joys of the game and the bonds forged through shared passion. In the end, amidst the rolling greens and sunny skies, it was a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary moments are found in the simplicity of a well-struck ball and the camaraderie of fellow players.

April 7

The first round of the Nagambie golf club championships for 2024 took place in ideal golfing conditions, a 21 degree top temperature with a light breeze greeted the large field, the course played fair for all and looked splendid due to the much needed rain that fell throughout the week. A field of 50 teed it up for the monthly medal and the opportunity to go on the Frank Zanelli honour board for the best first round score of the championship. Phil Neville was the winning golfer firing 88-18-70, having been in the doldrums for some time Neville picked the right time to come good taking home the monthly medal and the Seymour Club matchday voucher. Runner up was Steve Dove handing in a very tidy 92-21-71 to beat two others also on net 71 by way of count back, Dove is a newcomer to the Nagambie circuit, but has found the going to his liking, next best were Ryan Ezard with 90-19-71 and Michael Sloan 76-5-71. As for the championship standings we have co leaders after round one Michael Roberts and Michael Sloan each carding a 76 scratch score with 11 time champion Jeremy Ezard one shot back with a 77 scratch.

The nearest the pin prizes went to Jeremy Ezard rifling a strong iron onto the difficult 3rd, Jeff Lodding and Michael Sloan creating history by dead heating the 8th, Sam villinger Slammin it to close range on the 13th and Doug Neville flushing it all the way to the 16th. Next week's golf will be the 2nd round of the championship with D. Brown on office duty and B. Leviston in the bar.

Nagambie Women’s Golf

Results Wednesday 27th March

We had 9 players . Bev Brown was the winner of A & B Grades with 35pts. The winner of C Grade was Jane Bow with 36pts. The 9 hole winner was Jane Bow with 24 pts. Jane was also the winner of the Seymour Club Voucher. Balls down the line for 18 went to Jane 36pts and Bev 35pts. Balls down the line for 9 holes went to Jane 24pts and Bev 20pts.

Kylie Carmichael managed N/P on the 8th.

The Easter Raffle was drawn with the 1st prize going to Kylie Carmichael and the 2nd Bianca Bow.

Results Thursday 28th March

There were 16 players and the winner was Dave Love 45/8.5/36.5net.

No N/P’s.

Results Wednesday 3rd April

The winner of all Grades, The Monthly Medal and the Seymour Club Voucher was Monica Hurley with 35pts. Monica also won the 9 hole competition with 19pts. N/P on the 3rd was Annette Mills and the 16th Monica. 18 hole balls down the line went to Monica 35pts and Kylie Carmichael with 34pts. 9 hole balls went to Monica 19pts and Moz Fowler on a C/B from Carol Wallis with 16pts.

Results Thursday 4th April

There were 15 players and the winner was Gary Bow on a C/B from Dave Love with +2. There were no N/P’s.

Seymour football netball club results:

Round 1 of the Goulburn Valley Football and Netball League kicked off amidst the chill and dampness

of a typical autumn day. Seymour, determined and undeterred by the weather, ventured to Tatura Park to face off against the Bulldogs in a showdown that promised thrills both on the field and on the court.

The day began under a drizzle, the early rain leaving its mark on the playing surface, creating a challenge for players to maintain their footing and execute their skills effectively. Despite the adverse conditions, both teams approached the contests with gusto, showcasing their resilience and determination.

On the football oval, Seymour stamped their authority, clinching victory in five out of the eight games contested. The Under 18s encounter saw Seymour dominating proceedings with an impressive display, tallying a commanding scoreline of 22.18 150 against Tatura's 1.1 7. Noteworthy performances from players like T. Wardley, J. Porter, C. Holdsworth-Rose, and J. Ryan highlighted Seymour's depth and talent across the board.

In the Reserves clash, Seymour continued their winning streak, displaying superior skills and coordination to secure a convincing win over Tatura. Players such as S. Fuhrmeister, L. Hockley, M. McLean, T. Lewis, and J. Morgan stood out with their stellar contributions, showcasing Seymour's depth of talent and teamwork.

The Seniors match proved to be a closely contested affair, with both teams putting in a spirited performance. In a nail-biting finish, Tatura managed to edge past Seymour with a narrow margin of 11.9 75 to 10.12 72. Despite the loss, standout efforts from players like B. Rigoni, R. Schraven, J. Murphy, T. Maloney, and R. Mason underscored Seymour's fighting spirit and resilience.

Meanwhile, over on the netball courts, Seymour's prowess was equally evident as they battled fiercely against their Tatura counterparts. In the A Grade showdown, Seymour pushed Tatura to the limit, with the match culminating in a close 52-50 scoreline. Outstanding performances from players like A. Black, R. Martin, and R. O'Sullivan showcased Seymour's determination and skill in the face of stiff competition.

The B Grade encounter saw Seymour's dominance on full display as they secured a comfortable victory over Tatura. Players such as M. Albers, R. Sari, and L. Feery delivered standout performances, highlighting Seymour's depth and talent across all levels of play.

In the B Reserve match, Seymour continued their winning streak with a commanding performance, overpowering Tatura with a scoreline of 53-12. Stellar displays from players like T. Bootland, R. Trimble, and M. Allen exemplified Seymour's dominance and cohesion on the court.

The Under 17s clash proved to be a closely fought contest, with Seymour emerging victorious by a narrow margin of 33-31 against Tatura. Players like E. Zotti, T. Mason, and S. Allen showcased their skill and determination, contributing to Seymour's hard-fought victory.

In the Under 15s encounter, Seymour once again asserted their dominance, securing a decisive win over Tatura with a scoreline of 36-16. Standout performances from players like S. Butterworth, I. Watson, and R. Fletcher highlighted Seymour's talent and potential at the junior level.

Overall, Seymour's successful campaign in Round 1 of the Goulburn Valley Football and Netball League showcased their depth, skill, and resilience across both codes, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.

Nagambie Petanque Club

The Club will be holding a Mixed Doubles Competition on Sunday, April 14th several of our members will play in this competition on our own home ground. We have 28 teams registered which is amazing, we wanted to only run with 26 teams as that fits our current area of pistes available. We have added two more pistes to cater for the extra teams. This will be a very busy day, we are hoping that anyone interested in playing petanque many come along to watch and enjoy. A great way to see some of the experts in action and learn how the game is played. Most of the competitors are from surrounding clubs within Victoria. It is always a popular event on the PFA calendar as our visitors love to come and enjoy the day or weekend in Nagambie. Come down and have a look at some very talented players that like to come to compete.

We encourage and welcome visitors to have a try and hopefully enjoy this great game. A French game with a funny name, pronounced “petonk”. Able to played by all ages and abilities.

If you are unfamiliar with this game, it is similar to bocce, using steel boules and a jack ball that you are aiming to get close to for scoring points (like bowls as well). Check out some YouTube videos that give you a better idea.

We have regular catch up playing days, Thursday’s at 2pm and Sunday’s at 2pm. This is a very causal catch up, we have days that no one can come, and days we have quite a few. We use a What’s App group to check who is coming. One of the best things about the club is the casual nature, you don’t commit to a team that relies on you being in attendance if you can’t make it. This casual relaxed atmosphere is what we promote. If you want to become an expert and compete at other club completions around the area, this is all available once you become a member of our club, the VPCI (Vic Petanque Clubs Inc.) covers you for this as well as our insurance etc.

I hope I have inspired some of you to come along and have a try, all ages and abilities can play, and our piste (fancy name for playing area) is behind the Nagambie Pool at the Recreation Reserve.

Or give me a call and we will welcome you at a time that suits you. Jill 0419 567580

U P C O M I

w a w a t a b i l k t a b i l k

Departs: 23 Apr, 21 Jun & 19 Jul

C o n n e c t t o t h e T a u n g u r u n g s t o r y a t t a b i l k t a b i l k - p l a c e o f m a n y w a t e r h o l e s E n j o y a g u i d e d

c u l t u r a l w a l k a n d e c o c r u i s e t o l e a r n a b o u t w h a t h e a l t h y C o u n t r y m e a n s t o T a u n g u r u n g p e o p l e . 4 h o u r t o u r $ 1 8 0 p e r a d u l t , $ 9 0 p e r c h i l d

Departs: 19 Apr, 24 May

L e a r n a b o u t t h e s i g n i f i c a n c e o f w a t e r ( b a a h n ) t o

T a u n g u r u n g p e o p l e . L e a r n a b o u t t h e i n g e n u i t y a n d w a y o f l i f e o f o u r A n c e s t o r s , v i e w c u l t u r a l h e r i t a g e , e n j o y a w e t l a n d s c r u i s e , c e r e m o n y a n d m o r n i n g t e a

4 h o u r s $ 1 9 0 p e r a d u l t , $ 9 5 p e r c h i l d

Departs: 6 Jun

B e a m o n g s t t h e n a t u r a l b e a u t y o f t h e A r b w i t h

T a u n g u r u n g E l d e r s w h o s h a r e s t o r i e s o f c u l t u r a l u s e s f o r p l a n t s . T r y b u s h f o o d s a n d e n j o y a W e l c o m e S m o k i n g

C e r e m o n y 3 h o u r t o u r : $ 1 4 5 p e r a d u l t , $ 7 3 p e r c h i l d

Departs: 9 Apr & 6 Jul

A n I n t r o d u c t i o n t o c u l t u r e f o r c u r i o u s k i d s . I n c l u d e s a n

a r t c l a s s a n d s o u v e n i r t o t a k e h o m e , b u s h t u c k e r t a s t i n g s a n d m o r e . $ 9 0 p e r a d u l t , $ 6 0 p e r c h i l d

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