Alpine Division 030424

A FANTASTIC SHOWING

Long weekend wonder

BUSINESSES across Bright and surrounds have reported a strong Easter trade, with visitors flocking to towns to enjoy the clement weather, but cost of living concerns remain present, according to some.

Narelle Gray, co-manager of a Porepunkah caravan park, said they had been full over Easter and were expecting a busy school holidays.

She said visitors were seeking to escape the ‘rat race’ and relax.

“We were very blessed with the weather this year because Easter was a bit earlier,” she said.

“A lot of people hardly even leave the park.”

While bookings remained at 100 per cent, she said patrons were enquiring about on-site kitchens, suggesting they may be concerned about spending at local eateries.

Strong Easter visitation, say businesses

BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@ nemedia.com.au

“I think they’re still eating out, but maybe only a couple of times in their stay,” she said.

Bright Chamber of Commerce president Marcus Warner said more visitors are asking about on-site cooking options at their short-term rentals or at holiday parks, but Bright remains a popular Easter destination, especially for families.

“It’s very clear to see that visitors to the region are seeking economic options,” he said.

“Easter’s your classic family getaway before everybody rugs up for winter.

“The town over the last four days has seen a huge number of people utilising the rail trail, families riding hire bikes and bringing their own bikes.

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“People are up here exercising, enjoying the good, almost summerlike weather we’ve got.”

Despite concerns over restaurant spending, Courtney Saunders from the Alpine Hotel said they had been “insanely busy” at the venue’s upstairs and downstairs restaurants.

Regarding their accommodation, Ms Saunders said they had been full across the Easter weekend.

“We’ve got really good numbers for accommodation over the school holidays – almost fully booked as well,” she said.

Over in Mount Beauty, local chamber president Gerard Altman was reticent to offer judgement on visitation until he had spoken with businesses later in the week, but he said the town had decent numbers based on his observation.

“Visually, parking spots were full, I could see people at Crank Handle, people at Rocky Valley, people with bike racks,” he said.

He suggested cost of living concerns were having an impact on visitation to the town.

“I would say the standard is less people across the board, even though I’m seeing it looking busy,” he said.

“We have people in car parks, that doesn’t mean that they’re staying overnight.”

MOUNT Beauty Art Group committee members (from left) treasurer Jill Sullivan, president Janet Grealy, secretary Bec Winnel, and vice president Christine Gardam at the Mount Beauty Art Show, where impressive local talent was exhibited over the weekend.

■ Story page 8. PHOTO: Brodie Everist

HELPING OUT

Local sporting events bring town custom Having an Easter ball

MYRTLEFORD was pumping with people over the Easter weekend, according to local businesses, with many vendors making the most of the increased visitation from holidaymakers and sports lovers.

Bakery owner Renee Grenfell said they had been consistently busy all weekend, attributing some of the visitation to the footy match on Saturday between Myrtleford and North Albury.

Across the road, clothes store owner Amy Rogers also said the footy match and the Myrtleford Lawn Tennis Club’s Easter Tournament had brought many customers.

“A lot of people were going to our sales racks and then also looking for the new arrivals,” she said.

Cafe and wine bar owner Rishi

BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@ nemedia.com.au

Dahal increased opening hours over the weekend to make the most of the visitors, opening from 8:30am to 10pm instead of his usual evening hours.

“The breakfast is an adventure for us, so we did pretty well,” he said.

He said a lot of people who were staying in caravan parks and attending the tennis came to their venue.

Myrtleford Chamber of Commerce president Jim van Geet said eateries and clothes retailers had done particularly well from the

increased visitation.

“It’s a licence to make money on weekends like this,” he said.

At his own art gallery Mr van Geet had counted over 200 people through the doors.

“That’s as expected and it follows other years. The only years that we were busier was just post-COVID.”

He said increased numbers should continue throughout autumn.

“We find the autumn months are our busiest trading months,” he said.

“The weather’s stable – warm through the day, cool at night.

“And the autumn colours just bring tourists from everywhere.

“The tennis brings in bucket loads of people.

“We’ve been fortunate the weather has been brilliant.”

Holiday park manager Jo Joyce said the weather had been ideal for the weekend, especially when compared with last year’s rainy Easter.

“It has been noisier this year because of the fact that people have been able to sit outside at night,” she said.

She said they had been fully booked for Easter and they receive many repeat bookings.

“I will practically rebook all of these sites by the time people leave,” she said.

If they don’t get booked, then it’ll be up for grabs, but there‘s never any left.“

SAMMY Benci (bottom left) with (from left) Nathan Sacco, Louise Benci, Alex Benci, Corey Sacco and Ivy Lewis were getting ready to help with the Myrtleford Fire Brigade’s Good Friday Appeal efforts last week.

■ Story page

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

FOGO rollout a success so far: Council

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

COUNCILLORS reviewed the outcomes of the Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) kerbside collection service last week, eight months since it was implemented throughout the Alpine Shire.

The report before council at the March 26 meeting concluded the service had an overall successful outcome of reducing waste to landfill and maximising recycling of organics.

It reported that 6157 homes were delivered 240L FOGO bins, caddies, rolls of liner bags and print collateral during the bulk roll-out and114

bins have been delivered to commercial properties opting in to the service and additional homes since the bulk roll-out. Red lids replaced 1343 old dark green waste bin lids and there were 164 80L to 240L waste bin upgrades for residents.

Seventy-six holiday accommodation providers received 80L to 240 L waste bin upgrades.

The report outlined the effectiveness of the new service at reducing waste to landfill, including tonnages of FOGO collected, tonnages of waste collected compared to previous financial years, presentation rate of FOGO bins and

contamination rate of FOGO bins.

In October 2023 there was a total of 251 tonnes of FOGO collected with a 0.13 per cent contamination rate (this includes cumulative average contamination from July to October).

In November 2023 a total of 217 tonnes of FOGO collected with a 0.04 per cent contamination rate.

In December 2023 a total of 205 tonnes was collected with a contamination rate of just 0.01 per cent.

Waste collected in the 2022/23 financial year was 2110 tonnes and in the 2023/24 financial year, with July to January extrapolated

to full year prediction, 1710 tonnes collected.

The report noted that while actual data cannot be confirmed until a full year of the service, based on this estimate the reduction of waste to landfill is tracking at 400 tonnes for this first year of service.

Contamination rates are well below the industry acceptable standard of three per cent, according to council.

In January 2024, a kerbside bin inspection was conducted, where all bins presented for collection at 561 properties were visually inspected over a two-week period.

The intent of the inspections was to inform the focus

A CRAFTY CREW:

Since January (from left) Vienna Broz, Denise Ling, Betty Owen, Vonnie Matthews and Barbara Broz have been making their latest batch of bags and reusable menstrual pads for teenagers in Lacluta, TimorLeste. Barbara will be taking the products to Lacluta in mid-April.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

areas required for future education and awareness initiatives.

A summary of the overall results reported less than three per cent contamination across all categories - waste, recycling and FOGO.

The main lessons learned during the FOGO implementation, according to the report, are the importance of finalising the operating model for the new service early to enable transparent communications, to conduct supplier analysis, and to order the required infrastructure, and print collateral thus safeguarding against unexpected delays to assumed and/or quoted lead times.

BIN TALK: Councillors reviewed the outcomes of the Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) kerbside collection service last week, eight months since it was implemented throughout the Alpine Shire.

Man missing for 12 hours

By BRODIE EVERIST

A 51-year-old man from Whittlesea was found on Tuesday morning after being reported missing in the Buckland Valley the night before.

According to Senior Sergeant Doug Incoll of Bright Police, the man was in a group of four ‘canyoning’ from Mount Buffalo following Little Buffalo Creek when he separated from the group at around 4pm.

Canyoning is a sport that combines outdoor activities like rock climbing, hiking, swimming, and rappelling.

“He didn’t have a map or a compass or anything like that,” Sen Sgt

Incoll said.

The rest of the group reported him missing at 9:15pm.

Sen Sgt Incoll said police commenced the search that night and restarted at 7am on Tuesday, with air wing and other search parties coming to assist.

He said the man was found at 9:10am in good health at Swamp Wallaby Track.

Sen Sgt Incoll said the incident is reminder to pack suitable navigation and communication equipment when travelling on foot in the mountains.

“He was very lucky that things worked out well,” he said.

Annual Myrtleford Rotary HPA Charity Golf Day.

Held on the long weekend in March each year the Rotary club of Myrtlefords Annual charity golf day was once again a huge success for players, Rotarians and the wider community. Partnering with Hop Producers Australia (HPA), the proceeds of the day will be utilised to fund the many local community initiatives that come along every year. Service clubs, such as Rotary, are an integral part of the community and help support youth projects, mature aged endeavours and those less fortunate. The success of charity days is reliant upon the generosity of the volunteers involved, the players and especially the sponsors. A big thank you to all the local sponsors who continue to support their local community, and an acknowledgment of the local community supporting them.

Local sponsors of the 2024 Myrtleford Rotary and HPA Charity Golf day.

Alliance Dental

Alpine Dental

Alpine Eyecare

B-Cut (Billey and Me)

Buffalo Hotel

Buffalo River Machinery

Clyde St Butchery

Commonwealth Bank

Dahlsen’s Mitre 10

Foodworks

Future Steel

Myrtleford Furnishings and Floors

Myrtleford Newsagency

Myrtleford Pharmacy

Myrtleford Post Office

Myrtleford Savoy Club

Myrtleford Tyre and Battery

Nutrien Ag Soltns

Ovens Valley Chainsaws

Ovens Valley Insurance Brokers

Rinlatech

Sportsfirst Myrtleford

HPA Rostrevor

McPhersons Earthmoving

Michelini Wines

Myrtleford Discount Chemist

Style Inn

Terry Cartwright Kitchens WAW

Fish is still the Good Friday favourite

By BRODIE EVERIST

GOOD Friday is one of the biggest days of the year for fish sellers, and last week was no exception.

At one Bright takeaway the queue was stretching down the street and some had to endure a three-hour wait for the traditional fish and chips, according to staff member and former owner Irene Baris.

She said it was one of the busiest Good Fridays in her 28 years in the takeaway business.

“A lot of people were ordering for four or five families in one go,” she said.

“It pushes the other people’s orders back and you’ve got to catch up.”

She estimated around 80 per cent of the orders were for seafood, with the other 20 per cent for halal snack packs, burgers and other products.

“A few years back it was mainly fish and chips,” she said.

“But now you have people that are not religious, you get people that don’t even celebrate Easter.”

Seafood retailer Jenny Hughes was busy on Myrtleford’s Standish Street last Wednesday selling fish from a trailer that she takes around the North East.

When it comes to seafood sales, she said Good Friday isn’t as big as Christmas due to the popularity of prawns and oysters in December, but fish takes centre stage at Easter.

“Salmon, flathead tails, gummy flake – they’re probably our biggest sellers most of the year round,” she said.

At holiday times the fish prices can go up, she said, as fishers hold back the product a couple of days because they know demand will increase.

“Fishermen hold it back at the beginning of the week to get a better price, and then come the end of the week if they’ve got fish left over, they’ll drop the price to the suppliers,” she said.

As to why fish is so popular on Good Friday, Ms Hughes said the Catholic practice has be-

come common tradition even for those who aren’t religious.

She herself was brought up a Catholic, and said red meat was not to be eaten on Fridays in Lent, the 40-day period of fasting and abstinence before Easter.

Reverend Lindell Gibson from the Bright Uniting Church recalled an old joke that a former pope had ownership in a fishing company and to increase business he decreed that Christians should eat fish on Friday.

She said some Christians eschew red meat in remembrance of the blood of Jesus Christ that is said to have been shed on Good Friday, but she personally doesn’t insist on eating fish, instead choosing to eat and live simply for the day.

“I was probably brought up to understand fish was the simple person’s food and Friday wasn’t a day for celebrating - it’s a day to live simply and reflect, so for me personally, that’s what it’s about,” she said.

Mother Moira Evers said Friday was traditionally a day of fasting and abstinence to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

“The whole concept of eating fish once a week was to sacrifice meat, so to give up something that you really enjoy,” she said.

Mother Moira also pointed

out the nutritional benefits of eating fish.

“We should all eat fish once a week nowadays, so why not make it Fridays?” she said.

Clarification

ON page 2 of the March 27 edition of the Myrtleford Times/Alpine Observer the paper reported a man suffering a heart attack had been assisted by SES members.

The article failed to specifically note that Bright SES members also assisted in the incident and only reported a statement from the Myrtleford SES controller, thereby making it seem that the Myrtleford SES unit were the only SES members present.

We apologise for this oversight.

Hiker assisted by SES

By BRODIE EVERIST

AN 83-year-old Wangaratta man was assisted by SES to an ambulance after he became fatigued on Bungalow Spur on Monday night.

According to Senior Sergeant Doug Incoll of Bright Police, the man had walked to Mount Feathertop with his 13-year-old granddaughter and they were walking down Bungalow Spur when he became too fatigued to continue and called 000 for assistance.

Bright SES controller Graham Gales said the SES were called to the incident at 8:30pm and reached the man at 10pm, where it took another two hours to walk him to an ambulance.

CATCH OF THE DAY: Seafood retailer Jenny Hughes was busy on Myrtleford’s Standish Street last week selling fish in the lead up to Good Friday.

BUSY TIMES: Bright Takeaway staff member Irene Baris, with manager George Baris, said they had a queue stretching into the street on Good Friday. PHOTOS: Brodie Everist

Fundraising a mix of man and machine

By BRODIE EVERIST

THE fire trucks were out in force last week as volunteers sought donations throughout shire towns for the Good Friday Appeal.

According to Myrtleford’s Good Friday Appeal area manager Geoff Dyt, the Myrtleford Fire Brigade raised $11,470, the Whorouly Fire Brigade $2960, the Buffalo River Fire Brigade $2096 and the Gapsted Fire Brigade $490.

“The amount raised is outstanding, a huge thanks to all who donated on the day as well as our online components and additional raffles,” Myrtleford brigade Captain Gloria Pizzolitto said.

“The day went well, it was a reasonable turnout but we were lacking volunteer numbers this year to get the vehicles out and raise money so we weren’t able to get to every single person.

“Luckily the Good Friday team were there until late afternoon to help us.”

Bright CFA captain Brad Drennan said the combined total from the Bright SES and the Bright, Harrietville and Porepunkah brigades was $14,331.

brigades and the Mount Beauty Scouts raised $14,478.

He also thanked local organisers and CFA members for their efforts in staging the event.

“Last year’s total, from memory, was about $12,441, so it’s definitely increased our total this year and saw a large number of people come out to support due to the high tourism rates,” he said.

According to Upper Kiewa Valley area manager Meryn Deans, the combined efforts of individual volunteers, the Tawonga, Dederang and Mount Beauty fire

Mr Drennan said they had CFA members based throughout the town to attract passers-by on the busy long weekend, but they also had members travelling the streets.

One long-time helper for the Myrtleford team was not a resident, but a large coin counting machine from Bank WAW that volunteer Val McPherson estimated had been assisting their annual fundraiser for 35 years.

“They’ve retained it here at Myrtleford because of our appeal,” she said. Coins are poured in and a vertical turning wheel catches the coins and they are sorted by size into separate compartments as the machine calculates the total amount.

Detox your Home accepts:

Acids and alkalis

Aerosol cans

Ammonia based cleaners

Anti-freeze, coolant

Brake fluid

Car care products and waxes

Cooking oil

Cosmetics, nail polish and remover

Detergents, bleach, disinfectants and drain cleaner

Fertilisers

Fire extinguishers

Floor-care products and waxes

Fuels: petrol, diesel, kerosene

Glues: water-based and solvents

Hand sanitiser

TAKING ACCOUNT:

It’s not infallible though – volunteers said small pieces of paper, matchsticks and other pocket detritus can cause it to jam.

Herbicides and weed killers

Insect spray, pesticides, rat poison

Oven cleaner

Pool chemicals

Solvents

Thinners, turps and paint stripper

Transmission fluid

Wood preservatives and finishes And other items found at home with these symbols:

For a full list of chemicals accepted, visit: www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/ accepteditems

machine.

DONATION DRIVE: SES members, CFA members and other volunteers were getting ready for a day of donation-seeking on Friday morning.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

College students finish term with pasta, perambulation

By BRODIE EVERIST

MARIAN College students completed term one in their traditional fashion this year, taking an hourlong walk through along the Mosaic Trail, having a pasta lunch and watching a biblical re-enactment at Myrtleford’s McNamara Reserve.

As usual, the school has been fundraising over term one for Caritas Australia, a Catholic aid agency, with a goal of raising $4000 to provide a drinking water tank for a school in Samoa.

Principal Cath Watter said they have raised funds through a range of school activities, including sausage sizzles and icy pole sales, as well as the pasta lunch that students were enjoying that day.

She said some students were also sponsored for the walk and the school is collecting bottles and cans to recoup through the Victorian container deposit scheme.

“The weather’s been quite perfect for us,” she said.

“Sometimes it’s bit warm at this time of year, but today was lovely.”

Ms Watter said the 4.3 km

walk is a gentle reminder to students of hardship faced by those in less fortunate circumstances.

“A lot of people, in particularly developing countries, walk up to 12 kilometres a day just to get basic water, basic food and wood for cooking,” she said.

After the lunch the students walked across the oval to watch year 12 students reenact the ‘Stations of the Cross’, depicting Jesus Christ on the day of his crucifixion.

Each year students put their own spin on the biblical account.

Speaking before their performance, Year 12 Jaz Rossato said their rendition would be a little shorter than usual and maximise audience interaction.

Interactive elements included audience members pretending to partake of the body and blood of Christ and joining in an Italian prayer.

“Each scene requires the crowd to participate,” Jaz said.

“We’ll be getting people up from the crowd, they can yell things out, there’s more opportunity for them to interact with us.”

BEING CRUFICIED: Marian College students recreating the ‘Stations of the Cross’. In this instance, Jesus is being nailed to the cross.

UKV Lions to celebrate 60 years

By BRODIE EVERIST

THE Upper Kiewa Valley Lions will be marking their 60th anniversary this Saturday at the Mount Beauty Community Centre, Kiewa Crescent, from 11am-2pm.

Member Keith Pike said they are inviting the community and former Lions members for tea and sandwiches at the centre to see memorabilia from their 60 years of achievements.

He said the club assisted the community a great deal in the early days of Mount Beauty, which was constructed by the State Electricity Commission in the post-war period.

More recent projects include contributing to the establishment of numerous walks in the area, such as around the Mount Beauty Pondage.

Mr Pike said they have recently contributed around $3500 to send Mount Beauty Secondary College students to a camp in Tasmania.

One of his particular memories was selling a Subaru around ten years ago after a Lions member died and donated it to the club.

“There are a lot of projects that we can point to around the community that the Lions have been part of,” he said.

READY TO GO: Marian College year 12 students before their performance.

SUFFERING: Jesus has been made to carry the cross to Calvary.

PHOTOS: Brodie Everist

More than $24k raised for RCH by team Willow

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

MYRTLEFORD’S Molly Chambeyron has done it again, raising $24,090 for the Good Friday Appeal with her annual family fun day event at McEvoy Tavern.

The local grandmother was still delivering raffle items to winners on Monday after the hugely successful event which saw a crowd of hundreds gathered at the smallest pub in Victoria.

Ms Chambeyron began her involvement with the appeal in 2021 after her then three-year-old granddaughter, Willow, was diagnosed with cancer.

“It was a huge day with an amazing outcome; I think

donations are still coming in,” she said.

“Kellie’s head shave raised more than $1870 and she looks beautiful, I think she should’ve done it years ago.

“The crowd was great, I ran around with the tin and our auctioneer was excellent too.

“The crowd was so big we had to move the ferret racing and a few other things into the paddock next door and we had people show up at 9:30am to buy ferrets for the races and others who stayed all day.

“Our sculptures in the raffle were a highlight, well over $6000 was raised through those alone and there was such a fury for

them, somebody was going home with them.

“The seahorse sculpture has ended up in Myrtleford which is great.

“Dee selling the raffle tickets sold every single book we had and the day before I had a man ring up and donate a dressed lamb which we made our second prize.

“Our motorbike riders came along and set themselves up with their own money tin and signs and they raised $540 for us which was amazing.

“The ferret racing was a hit; Whitey will be returning next year.”

Another highlight for Molly was her stepdaughter making a speech on the day.

“It was such a special moment; during the speech Willow yelled out “I’m cancer free” and there were many teary eyes,” she said.

“It feels great to see all my hard work pay off and it went smoothly despite being so hot and so busy.

“The easter egg hunt was a task to set up; the kids were eyeballing myself and Kellie for most of the day so I had to pick a stranger from the crowd to hide them in secret.

“The handmade table that started it all was yet again bought by David Hogg and he’s burnt Willow’s name into it now; I’m sure it will end up in next year’s event again.”

PEOPLE AROUND TOWN

How long have you lived in the area?

I’ve come and gone many times, but I grew up in Porepunkah, went to school in Myrtleford and have lived here most of my life. I’ve mainly lived in Porepunkah, a little bit in Bright, and I’m in Bright at the moment.

What do you do for a living?

I own Bright Spa.

BRIGHT Priscilla Armstrong

How did you get into that?

I studied remedial massage as soon as I finished high school. I’ve worked as a masseur, I’ve worked in days spas around the country. I’ve always loved creating immersive experiences, whether it be a spa or theatre or whatever it might be, and so a big part of this is creating an experience for people just as much as it is that they can come in, let go, and leave transformed. It’s about healing, but it’s about creating an immersive experience just as much.

What are your hobbies or interests?

Singing, theatre, walking, cooking. I love dancing, but I don’t get to do that around here - that’s one thing I’d change. Traveling, live music and socialising.

What do you like about the area?

I love that we’re surrounded by mountains and rivers, and I love that we’re a small

town, but still got a lot of what you would want to find in a city, without being in a city.

Where would you take visitors to showcase the area?

I’d take them to Mount Buffalo, I’d wander the streets of Bright. I’d take them for a walk along the river and I would take them up to Mount Hotham, just to show how vast the wilderness is when you’re up there. You don’t realize it while you’re down here in the valley. And I’d take them out for dinner.

Is there anything you would change about the area?

I would encourage more diverse music. I would love for there to be places where we could go out and dance. At the moment Don Mungo’s is the only place in town where you can go out and dance, which is good, but it would be great if there were more opportu-

nities, different music, just to get people out and bring people together. That’s one thing I find living here - it’s easy to live in the same town and not know anyone unless you have a common interest with that person. If there were social settings that were welcoming to different groups of people, it would be so great for people to come together in a common way.

Do you have any ambitions for the future?

I’m in the process of putting a band together. I want to put on another show. I’ve done a couple of different musicdominated theatre pieces, but I haven’t done anything for ages, so I really want to create something a bit outrageous. I also want to travel a lot. I’m aiming to go to Peru at the end of the year. My ambition is to go on a real adventure every year.

TEAM WILLOW: Willow’s eldest brother Bailey Lawton, grandpa Shady Whitbread with event organiser Molly Chambeyron.

HUGE SUPPORT: A crowd of hundreds showed up at the McEvoy Tavern to raise money for the Good Friday Appeal.

Town’s terrific talent on display

By BRODIE EVERIST

THE Mount Beauty Community Centre was filled with art appreciators last Thursday night for the Mount Beauty Art Group’s Annual Easter Show, featuring a wide range of local talent on display.

The show exhibited works by members of the Mount Beauty Art Group, with many available for sale.

It included works by artist Bec Winnel, who has exhibited in Los Angeles, New York and London, and realist painter Bronwyn Van de Graaf, who has won a number of awards across Australia for her works.

Mount Beauty Art Group president Janet Grealy said she was pleased with the opening, and committee members had been busy all night fielding artwork sales.

“We’ve got a few new members as well, so that always adds to the group,” she said.

Mount Beauty resident Helen Cubbidge had two of her works on display –one a depiction of clownfish amongst a sea anemone and the other of a crimson rosella – both drawn using Prismacolor pencils.

She said the depiction of the clownfish was drawn during the COVID-19 pandemic and sat under her bed for four years.

“I started with the clownfish and then it grew into something that I am terribly proud of,” she said.

“This is the first time that it’s out on display, framed and on show.”

She said the crimson rosella was drawn as a gift for her supervisors when she worked at the Falls Creek Hotel for a ski season.

“I saw the crimson rosellas in the snow for the first time at the hotel,” she said.

“They just struck me so much, and I was like it’d be a good gift for these people who have been so kind to me.”

Last Thursday was the first time she displayed her works, but she is planning to do a solo exhibition of 20 of her works – though she still needs to create another 16 before she is ready.

“I got some work ahead of me, but I’m confident and I’m driven so it’s going to happen,“ she said.

The show ran over the Easter weekend, March 29-April 1.

Alpine Health to run positive ageing expos

ALPINE HEALTH will be running three Positive Ageing Expos this April and May to empower older people to enhance their quality of life and wellbeing.

The free expos will focus on understanding the services available to older people, enabling them to access the right support at the right time.

From health and wellness services to social activities and community resources, attendees will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of options to enhance their well-being, according to Alpine Health.

“We believe that every senior deserves to live a life filled with joy, purpose, and support,” Alpine Health chief executive officer Nick Shaw said.

“The Positive Ageing Expos aim to connect older people with the services and resources that can help them lead fulfilling lives and age positively.”

The expos will feature informative sessions and service booths showcasing a variety of services tailored to older peoples’ needs.

The first expo will be held at the Myrtleford Senior Citizens Centre,1/12 Smith Street, on April 16, from 1011:30am.

The second will be held at the Bright Uniting Church (enter via Burke Street) on May 2, from 10-11:30am.

The third expo will be held on May 16 at the Lakeside Community Centre, 2 Lakeside Avenue, Mount Beauty, from 1011:30am.

Find the Humanitix website and search ‘positive ageing expo’ in your area to register.

Superannuation planning

Most people don’t think about retirement and superannuation until retirement age is approaching and let’s face it, it happens quicker than we would like. There is a myth that Self Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) are only for people over 60 years of age. This is incorrect as more young and middle age professionals and investors are choosing to set up an SMSF. They have financial knowledge & skills and quite often have specific investments in mind. By setting up their own SMSF, it gives them the management and control over their investment decisions. There are a vast range of investment options available for a SMSF which gives members the opportunity and flexibility to tailor their investments to their personal and/or business situation. Business owners can really benefit from having their own SMSF. Some of the more popular investments include shares, managed funds, term deposits commercial and residential property.

SMSF’s also have a low concessional tax rate of 15%. Changes to this tax rate occur when the members of a SMSF retire. When a SMSF converts to pension phase and assets are disposed of, there is no tax paid on the realised capital gain of the disposed assets.

Belmores can help you gain control over your superannuation. If you can see a SMSF working for you or would like further information regarding SMSF’s, please contact any of our Belmores offices.

HAVING FUN: Mount Beauty residents (from left) Erin Francis, Laura Coverdale, Mandy van Gastel and Helen Cubbidge.

GOOD TIMES: (From left) Local residents Sandy Sutherland, Kath Jones and Deidre Rickard.

PROUD ARTIST: A number of Mount Beauty artist Blanche Spargo’s works were on display.

APPRECIATING ART: (From left) Ian Cohn, Linda Hall, Kate Farrell and Petra Mackus at the show on Thursday night.

WATERCOLOUR WONDERS: Mount Beauty artist Maria Sutcliffe (right), with Tawonga South resident Sue Retallick, had a number of watercolours on display, including local scenes and depictions of travels in Europe.

PHOTOS: Brodie Everist

Perfect weather for crowds at Harrietville bush market

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE HARRIETVILLE

Historical Society’s annual Easter Sunday Bush Market hosted more than 1000 people throughout the day, with perfect sunny weather enjoyed by all.

Harrietville Historical Society president Robyn Downey said it was a lovely market with lots on offer.

“It was just a gorgeous day; no weather problems this year,” he said.

“Everything went very well and the duck race was a hit with a few hundred people watching along the river.

“Tim Martin called the race and made it very exciting watching them come down the river.

“We had DJ Beauy for the morning music who set up a lovely, relaxed vibe, to match the wonderful bush surrounds.

“Because it’s so spread

out in the park it’s such a lovely space, lots of people got up to dance.

“We had more than 60 stallholders this year with varied products; everything from Austrian strudel, Nepalese food, Vietnamese food, donuts, chestnuts, jewellery, clothing, plants, pottery, weaving and more.

“This year the market organisers Sarah Anderson and Greg Pelly introduced a sauna and ice bath attraction and a massage station.

“The CFA were doing their usual demonstrations for the children and the historical society ran its secondhand bookstore.

“It’s such a great day and I’ve had many people tell me it’s the best market they go to and most of our stallholders come back every year so I’m glad to know it’s loved.”

Council invests almost $250,000 for Dinner Plain water search

By BRODIE EVERIST

ALPINE Shire councillors have voted to award a contract for the drilling of further pilot bore holes at Dinner Plain to help ensure an adequate water supply during the town’s peak tourist season, following an unsuccessful attempt last year.

At their meeting last week councillors were recommended to award a contract of just under $250,000 to to ‘KH Adams and Sons Pty Ltd’ for the drilling of pilot holes and the

subsequent installation of a production water bore at the Dinner Plain to ensure snow guns are adequately supplied during winter.

According to council, the snow guns at Cobungra ski slope are supplied from the town’s water reticulation network, but during the peak season snowmaking is stopped to ensure adequate domestic supply.

The project aims to install an additional groundwater production bore capable of producing an average of between six and eight litres

per second over the winter season to reduce demand on the town water bores.

A previous pilot hole was drilled in 2023 for the supply of groundwater to snow making equipment on Peashooter Slope, but it only produced 0.5litres per second and was insufficient to meet project requirements.

According to council, if an appropriate flow rate is not achieved, snow gun operations will be phased using surplus water available once Dinner Plain’s

domestic requirements are met.

“From a criticality perspective, striking water is a really important part of the overall success of this project,” council’s director of assets Alan Rees said.

Responding to questions from Cr Kelley, Mr Rees said the two existing bores for the Dinner Plain potable water supply yield 10-12 litres per second, giving assurance that water is available.

“The geomorphology can be slightly confounding with faults and other matters that make it a

little more complex,” he said.

“The preferred areas have been identified; there’s some constraint about not drilling too close to existing bores and potentially impacting the water tables around them.

“Part of the infrastructure does include additional tank capacity and so that would be available if the need arose for fire support.”

Mr Rees said they can drill up to five pilot holes but will stop if they find one with adequate flow rates.

THIRD PLACE: Albury resident Moira O’Reilly, pictured with her husband.

WINNER: First place in the duck race was Carmen May, pictured with daughter Rylee Anderson.

THERE THEY GO: The Harrietville Primary School duck race attracted a big crowd on Easter Sunday. PHOTOS: Samantha Pellegrini

THE NOT A BAD VIEW BIT

At the immersive BBC Earth Experience, you’ll see the world from an entirely new perspective. It’s not the only place this happens in Melbourne either. Just wait until you find the thought-provoking art galleries, boundary-pushing theatre and sporting events that ignite something deep inside you. Get ready to see and feel it all, all over the city.

Local gallery welcomes in autumn

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

BRIGHT Art Gallery hosted another well-attended and pleasant evening to celebrate the opening of the 62nd Autumn Art Exhibition last Wednesday.

Gallery president Steve McCall said Alpine Shire mayor John Forsyth opened proceedings with a summary of the many developments and improvements over the years since the first exhibition in 1962.

“It was interesting to note that Yvonne Ward from Porepunkah and her brother Ian were both present on that first occasion,” he said.

According to Mr McCall, judge Lyn Mellady gave a detailed and interesting explanation for her choices of winners.

The Grand Acquisitive award was won by Chris White of Eltham North, with an oil painting titled “Bright Morning, Beechworth.

“Awards were also given for the winners of the various other categories, such as Best Oil, Best Acrylic, and Best Watercolour,” Mr McCall said.

“Sales then proceeded, and nearly $10,000 worth of quality works found new homes.”

There are 420 paintings on display each day from 10am to 4pm, until May 12 at the gallery, located at 28 Mountbatten Ave, Bright.

NEW WORKS ON SHOW: Bright Art Gallery has opened its Autumn exhibition.

LOCAL SUPPORT: A crowd of art lovers attended the opening night.

PHOTOS: Jean-Pierre Ronco

Councillor-staff policy out for consultation

By BRODIE EVERIST

A DRAFT councillor and staff interaction policy is now available for community consultation following the Alpine Shire Council’s monthly meeting last Tuesday.

At the Myrtleford meeting councillors voted to invite submissions on the document that establishes protocols for interactions between councillors and staff, including the chief executive officer (CEO), directors and managers.

According to the policy, councillors must accept that their role is one of strategy and policy development and leadership, as opposed to management or administration, nor should they instruct, direct or

approach staff on any matters pertaining to the performance of their duties.

The draft policy follows recommendations in a 2023 Local Government Inspectorate report that encouraged councils to “develop a policy to guide the relationships and interactions between councillors and council staff ” and consider a policy for councillors interacting with third parties.

Alpine Shire Council chief executive Will Jeremy said the adoption of the draft policy would not require any change to current councillorstaff interactions.

Mr Jeremy said that interactions between councillors and staff have often been flagged by municipal monitors when appointed to over-

see the governance of local councils.

The Strathbogie Shire was suspended last year following a report detailing a litany of governance issues related to councillor behaviour.

The report by municipal monitor Peter Stephenson said some councillors did not understand their role and inappropriately involved themselves in operational matters that were the responsibility of council staff

Councillor Simon Kelley said adopting a policy of this type is best practice, but felt there is a “balance to be struck” on practical considerations.

“I’m not sure this draft meets that balance in all respects but that’s

Home detoxing dropoff

SUSTAINABILITY Victoria are holding a free chemical dropoff morning on Saturday April 13 at the Myrtleford Transfer Station and Recycling Centre, Morrisons Lane, Myrtleford.

From 9am to 12pm, unwanted household chemicals can be dropped off at the site.

Items that can be dropped off include weed killers, cleaning products, cosmetics, cooking oil and fire extinguishers.

Containers cannot be returned, so bring the chemicals in original packaging or disposable packaging.

For safety reasons, containers of more than 20 kilograms will not be accepted.

Paint is not accepted; it should be taken to a permanent drop-off site.

Garden club events

THE Bright Garden Club will welcome Julie Maroney from Snow Road Nursery on Tuesday April 9, 7:30pm, at the Bright RSL Hall, Camp Street.

part of the benefit of putting it out for community consultation,” he said.

Cr Ron Janas voiced similar concerns.

“I’d hate to think that something like this could stifle the goodwill in small communities where people often interact,” he said.

“You might be at a sports event, you could be at a night out, a wedding or a funeral even, and often the situation of work may arise just in general conversation.

“I can see the general gist of it and why it’s required.

“This policy should work hand in glove with the councillor code of conduct.

“It would interesting to get the community feedback on it.”

“As Julie is planning to wind down the nursery operations around springtime, this could be our last chance to hear her words of wisdom,” club secretary Linda Meighan said.

“She will be telling us about plants with beautiful perfumes - from vegies, fruit and flowers, to shrubs and trees.”

Ms Maroney will also bring a variety of plants for sale.

The evening will conclude with supper and a cup of tea, all for $2 entry, ending around 9:30pm.

On April 30, the club’s Bendigo Bank-sponsored Autumn Festival guest speaker is horticulturalist and awardwinning presenter Chloe Thomson.

Wangaratta's

Accountants

BRIGHT ACCOUNTING

Certified Practising Accountants – C.P.A.

Accounting for small businesses and individuals.

4-1a Camp Street, Bright

Phone: 5755 5105

E enquiries@brightaccounting.com.au

BELMORES CHARTERED

ACCOUNTANTS

(formerly CRM Business Advisers)

Certified Practising Accountants

Myrtleford, 1-7

Clinical Massage

MYOTHERAPY, MUSCLE

HEALTH & FITNESS

Dennis Kersting Dip. RM CM.

Myrtleford - 18 Rayner Street

Phone: 0427 440 744

Insurance Brokers

OVENS VALLEY INSURANCE BROKERS

Myrtleford, 47 Clyde Street

Phone: 5752 1151

Bright, 104 Gavan St

Phone: 5715 9705

Email: info@ovib.com.au

Solicitors

DICK & WILLIAMS

Solicitors & Attorneys Vic & NSW

Myrtleford, 5B Clyde Street.

Phone: 5752 2363.

Email: email@dwlawalbury.com.au

TONER & MAY LEGAL

BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS

86 Standish Street, Myrtleford.

Phone: 03 5752 1493

2A Camp Street, Bright,

Phone: 03 5750 1819

Email: amanda@tonerandmaylegal.com.au or jess@tonerandmaylegal.com.au

Promote your service here!

Phone Jenny on 57313305 or email jking@nemedia.com.au

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

GAPSTED CFA juniors may not have placed in the main events during the final round of District 22 Championship but the lead up to the last event saw a number of wins for the team.

Coach Craig Hodgetts said he couldn’t be prouder of the kids.

“Once again Gapsted juniors did quite well at Mooroopna with the 11 to 13 age group winning all five of their events,” he said.

“The 13 to 15 age group also got four places out of their five events.

“Both age groups won overall on point for the day.

“Even us old buggers snagged a third, so Gapsted as a whole came fourth overall; a pretty good day out.

“Then last weekend we travelled back to Mooroopna for the State Championships.

“As you can imagine there was a lot more competitors competing.

“Unfortunately for us the talent was amazing, meaning we didn’t get any placing in any age group that weekend.

“Which doesn’t mean our juniors didn’t do well.

“They did themselves proud, I mean in one event there was less than half a second for the first five places and we were fourth.”

Mr Hodgetts said the highlight of the day was competitor Thomas Griffiths winning the sprint race, which was the last event of the day.

“Defending his title from last year, the boy can run,” he said.

“I’d also like to thank Jordan Fuller, who came up from the juniors to the senior ranks this year.

“She had to put up with running with three blokes 57 and older.

“Jordan and everyone in the team did an amazing job.

“As a coach I could not be prouder of our little team.

“When our juniors win and I see them getting their medals, it’s like a proud father moment for me.

“That’s why I do what I do.

“As a whole this team would be the most successful team Gapsted has ever put out.

“In saying that next year is 60 years of CFA rural competition and it will be at Gapsted again.

“So I’d like to take this opportunity, to ask anyone who

wishes to join our team would be more than welcome.

“We would love to see more juniors, both girl and boy are welcome.

“Juniors start at 11 and finish at 15.

“Seniors are also welcome to join with ages 16 and over.

“I’d love so much for Gapsted to win overall at Gapsted next year but to do that we need more members.”

By STEVE KELLY

NORTH East Victoria has one of the highest rates of organ and tissue donors with places like the Alpine Shire at 33 per cent registered, but there’s a push from parliament to make it even better.

Wangaratta has 35 per cent of residents registered, Mansfield and Towong have a 33 per cent registration rate, while Strathbogie Shire has 32 per cent.

But when it comes to the whole state, Victorians are lagging behind with just 23 per cent of the population registered donors compared to the national average of 36 per cent.

To promote donor registrations, a committee of parliament wants people to be given the option to register for organ and tissue donations at the time of applying for or renewing their driver’s licence.

South Australia already has the option to become organ donors when renewing a licence and that state has 73 per cent of the population on the donor register.

A Legislative Assembly Legal and Social Issues Committee’s report ‘Register and talk about it’ makes 74 findings and 41 recommendations, including to encourage more registrations through improved accessibility and awareness of the Australian

Organ Donor Register (AODR) and better promotion of family discussion about donation.

“It’s so important that people both register and have a conversation with their family about their donation wishes,” committee chair Ella George said.

“We know that will significantly increase the likelihood that a family will consent to a donation going ahead.”

The committee received almost 50 submissions, held seven days of hearings and heard

from local, interstate and international experts, as well as representatives of diverse communities and donor families who bravely shared their personal stories.

“It can be incredibly confronting to be asked to consent to a loved one becoming a donor,” Ms George said.

“But we learned that many families find the strength at a time of intense sadness to recognise that they can help others.”

While Victorians were able to

record interest in becoming a donor on driver’s licences for a short period, this has not been possible since the early 2000s.

The rate of registration for young people is particularly low, with just 10pc of people aged 16 to 25 having registered a donation decision on the AODR.

The committee identified building awareness and discussion opportunities about donation among young Victorians as a key opportunity, and makes a series of recommendations to encourage this cohort to register and share their donation wishes with family.

“Educating young people is vital,” Ms George said.

“We need to increase awareness so more young people register to become a donor and share their donation wishes with family, making Victorians better prepared should they ever be asked to provide consent to donation for a loved one.”

The committee also considered living stem cell and living kidney donations, and discovered much more can be done to promote both.

Australia imports most of its stem cell donations from overseas: but this reliance would be reduced by encouraging more young people to register on the Australian Bone Marrow Donor Registry.

Superb low maintenance living in modern three bedroom home

THIS Wangaratta property at 11A Williams Road provides the perfect opportunity for someone looking to downsize to a low maintenance home or looking for a great returning investment.

The home consists of two separate living areas, three bedrooms all with

built in wardrobes with the main having an ensuite and walk in wardrobe.

Heating and cooling are well catered for with gas ducted heating and evaporative cooling throughout.

The home has a gas cooktop, electric oven and gas boosted solar hot water service.

Externally there is a concreted outdoor entertaining area, garden beds and the property is on its own title.

The home is approximately seven years old and is in a great location and walking tracks.

Wangaratta branch

76 Reid Street

Open weekdays

9am to 5pm (closed 1pm to 1:45pm)

1300 004 863

humebank.com.au

Nutrien

5722

Custom, quality home

WHEN quality counts, this fantastic home provides it all situated on a 693m2 allotment.

This versatile property is sure to impress anyone looking for a family home, downsizing, upsizing, or investment opportunity.

Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and two spacious living areas.

The well-appointed open plan kitchen provides stainless cooking appliances, stone island bench and great storage.

There is a timber lined alfresco area, exposed aggregate concrete, plumbed gas and stacker doors providing seamless indoor-outdoor living.

The primary bedroom offers an ensuite and walk in robe.

Both additional guest bedrooms are

The central bathroom features a separate shower and bath.

The laundry is well proportioned to accommodate the family’s needs.

The double lock up garage caters for two vehicles and has direct access to the home and rear yard.

Both front and rear yards have re-

Agent |

Phone |

Price |

New home in Baltimore

THIS newly built family home provides an abundance of quality upgrades on a spacious 774m2 allotment.

Nutrien Harcourts

5722 9444

Location | 3 2 2

$700,000 - $730,000

36 Currawong Drive, Wangaratta

cently been landscaped with an automatic watering system.

There is great size shedding with

Ensuring year-round comfort, the home provides ducted refrigerated heating/cooling.

The home is perfectly located in a quiet street within walking distance to schools, local shops and creekside walking tracks.

Call Danial Siperki at Nutrien Harcourts to arrange your private inspection on 0400 027 473

Looking for someone to take over the reins.

This move in ready four-bedroom home combines functionality and fam-more Park Estate.

The sizeable home offers seamless open plan living, dining and kitchen with high nine foot ceilings throughout the home.

The custom designed kitchen showcases stone benches, entertainers/breakfast bar with premium stainless cooking,

It also has a servery window and an abundance of soft close storage along with a butler’s pantry.

This fantastic home offers a spacious primary bedroom with two large his and her walk-in robes and an impressive ensuite with an oversized shower and dual vanities.

The smartly designed three separated guest bedrooms all contain built in robes and share the main bathroom with separate bath, frameless glass and step in shower.

Comfort is ensured with ducted refrigerated cooling and heating.

The home is designed to maximise

Agent |

Phone |

Location |

Price |

2 2

Nutrien Harcourts

5722 9444

$895,000 - $920,000

74 Christensen Lane, Wangaratta

natural light with a strong emphasis on indoor-outdoor living with an Alfresco area leading to the private secure rear yard with full turf and a double lockup garage.

The property is located in a new estate providing an abundance of scope to add shedding or a pool with side access.

The home was consructed by Afonso Homes and completed in 2023, and is inclose proximity to schools and early education providers.

Call Danial Siperki at Nutrien Harcourts to arrange your private inspection on 0400 027 473.

When Alison Chapman, proprietor of the Watts In Café Bundalong bought a block of land back in 2012 she had big ideas. “We had a blank canvas and really no idea on where to start, but we were highly motivated and wanted to bring this to life.” Experience and hindsight has been valuable and over the last 10 years, in conjunction with a former business partner and now her family members, have built a solid business “We have created this amazing community space we are so very proud of.” Says Chapman.

Immediately on arrival its clear Alison, has meticulously created systems with quality appliances to ensure they can be as efficient in the café as possible.

The outdoor dining area under the trees is very inviting for a slow morning coffee or lunch with friends.

Alison and her family confirming the decision to sell was difficult but concedes “We have seen the fruits of our labour, we think it’s the perfect time to hand over to the next generation of owners, who can bring their energy and flare to this vibrant community.”

Watts In Bundalong Café is being sold freehold and as a walk in walk out opportunity, with the view the café will stay open so that the community can still access this hub. There is an offer of transition support to ensure that an ongoing business can see an immediate return on investment.

Anthony Stevens real estate, with offices in Yarrawonga & Geelong, has listed this property for sale. Stevens, principal and licenced agent, has thrown the net far and wide. “We know there are audiences that dream of owning a café, or who are looking to buy themselves a business with a tree change, yet not many people know about Bundalong.”

“This is where we utilise specific digital marketing techniques to get this property and region in front of the right people. Once we spark their interest it is easy to encourage them to consider moving this vibrant community.”

“We immediately started seeing a response from audiences in Melbourne and regional cities, from those who seeking the tree/river change.” says Anthony Stevens.

VACANT LAND 1,656m2

& cooling with ducting to every room

3 2 2 207m2

FOR SALE $950,000

COMMERCIAL INVESTMENT

Whorouly Hotel

542 Whorouly Rd, Whorouly

• Quintessential country hotel with traditional charming character in thriving community

• Fully tenanted with options to extend in 2024

• Net rental income of $20,976 + GST & outgoings per annum

• Dining & entertainment facilities

• 50% regional stamp duty concession avail.

FOR SALE $700,000

No GST, Going Concern

BUSINESS OR LIFE STYLE

The Oven

451 King Valley Rd, Cheshunt

• Successful unique business set in King Valley selling ethically & sustainably produced, breads, pastries, pies & seasonal produce

• Generous 1639m2 block & 298m2 restaurant

• Seating capacity of 40, internally & externally

• 2 x 22kw electric vehicle charging stations

• 2meg domestic water licence (King River) + additional 2meg domestic lic. 4 meg total.

• No GST if sold as a Going Concern

• Could convert to unique living quarters (STCA)

Lifestyle Opportunity on 1,639m2

FOR SALE $985,000 + SAV

COMMERCIAL FREEHOLD

Historic Glenrowan Hotel

46-48 Gladstone St, Glenrowan

• Situated in the heart of ‘Kelly Country’ opposite new Ned Kelly Discovery Hub

• Constructed in 1908, comprises a bar, bottle shop, bistro, commercial kitchen, two beer gardens and accommodation

• Offered with vacant possession, the price incl extensive chattels, plant and equipment

• Includes. approx. 3,000m2 of vacant Commercial 1 Zoned land fronting Hill St

• 50% regional stamp duty concession

FOR SALE $990,000

Plus GST

RURAL LIFE STYLE

Ovens River Frontage

251 Goodwins Lane, Milawa

• Remarkable rural property nestled in the picturesque Oxley Flats / Milawa district

• Circa 1890s solid brick homestead that has undergone a modern renovation, seamlessly blending character & contemporary comforts

• Separate dwelling nearby offers possibilities for a guest house venture or retreat

• Extensive frontage along the Ovens River

• Local pub, restaurants, wineries, primary school, pharmacy, bakery, cheese factory & gen. store

• 5 min drive to Milawa & 12 mins to Wangaratta

Vacant Land - 51

6 2 3 61 acres

FOR SALE $2,000,000

PETROL POWER FIGHTS BACK FROM BELOW

By DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring

WHILE the battle rages for the high ground of the top tech, and expensive, electrified territory of the automotive world, a rear-guard action from the internal combustion engine bargain basement is taking place.

Micro cars such as the MG 3, Suzuki Ignis, Fiat 500 and Mazda 2 are leading the charge to defend ICE(land). The latest call to arms comes from Kia with its upgraded Picanto. What are its chances?

Sadly, gone ta-taas is the popular GT, replaced by a pair of GT-Line legionnaires.

Kia says it has called on the company’s footy-like ‘Opposites United’ (How do they think of ’em?) philosophy for the new range, leading to a modern, sporty design highlighted by a new headlamp set-up, ‘ripped’ radiator grille and reshaped front bumper.

Out back, the tail lamps and bumper have been tweaked.

The new Picanto comes in two trim levels – Sport and GT-Line – with prices coming in at $17,890, plus on-road costs, for the entry-level fivespeed manual.

The four-speed automatic sells for $19,490, while the flagship GT-Line auto tops out the range at $21,290.

On test was the latter.

Price is not the only selling point.

For Picanto buyers it’s wel-

come to Kia ‘seventh heaven’ with the maker’s class-leading seven-year warranty and capped price servicing at 12-month intervals, plus up to eight years roadside assist.

STYLING

On GT-Line, further from above, a daytime running light strip extends across the leading edge of the bonnet, pushing out the headlamps with emphasis on the width.

Newly designed wheels – 14inch alloys on the Sport and a 16inch machine finished diamond cut quartet for the GT-Line.

Power folding side mirrors with integrated warning indicators are now standard across both trims, with GT-Line boasting heating too.

Seven exterior paint finishes are on offer, with Adventurous Green being new to Kia.

INTERIOR

Premium leatherette features as standard on steering wheel and gearshift knob across the range, with the latter also scoring a D-cut sports steering wheel. Leg room, especially in the back is at a premium, while head room is not so.

The driver’s side footwell is not welcoming to larger feet. Pedal space is cramped. Keyless entry is tainted by the need to use it the steering column lock to start the motor.

Boot space, with rear seat backs up is briefcase-like 255 litres; with the seat backs fold-

ed, a respectable 1010 mm.

INFOTAINMENT

Gone are the analogue gauges, replaced by a 4.2inch digital instrument cluster, making the perfect match for the carry-over 8-inch touchscreen – with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – perched atop the central dashboard, beneath which are air-con (no climate) controls with easy-tooperate large knobs.

GT-Line rear occupants also benefit from the addition of USB-C charging ports.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

Nothing (new) to see here – the Picanto carries over the existing 1.2-litre MPI non-turbo engine, mated with either fivespeed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, putting power to the ground through the front wheels.

SAFETY

With young drivers in mind, the Picanto GT-Line is equipped with a range of Kia’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems as standard across both trims.

These include blind spot collision avoidance Assist rear BCA, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist, and lane follow and lane keeping assist.

Low on torque, the GT-Line auto is in no rush to get going, nor is it up.

There’s a reversing camera and rear parking sensors but nothing at the front, which is a

pity because of the stubby nose. Passive safety is in the hands of six airbags – dual front, front side and full-length curtain.

DRIVING

There appears to be little for smart overtaking while on the run. Tootling around town is more to its liking.

The maker puts the fuel consumption on the combined urban / highway cycle at 6 litres per hundred kilmetres. Over a week of average work the test vehicle recorded 7.1 klitres per 100 kilometres.

The ride and handling were reasonably comfortable –some bumps and lumps along the way, considering the short wheelbase (2400 mm) and steering came up with good reaction to driver input.

Feedback was solid but the tyres could not avoid chiming in with annoying road noise on course surfaces. However, the Picanto gets a ‘gold medal’ for parking.

Pick a spot – almost any spot – and the compact is quick to reward the driver in forward or reverse.

SUMMARY

Kia lines up its Picanto to broaden the appeal of its mini hatchback, sacrificing its popular GT in the move.

SPECIFICATIONS

(Kia Picanto GT-Line 1.2-litre 4-cyl petrol, 4sp auto, FWD)

RATINGS

Looks – 8

Performance – 4

81/02) 6.0

DRIVELINE:

PICK OF THE PICANTO: KIA’s upgraded Picanto looks to buck trends.

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

MINI WORD FIND

ACROSS

3 Name an island in the eastern West Indies (8)

7 Name the legendary twin brother of Pollux (6)

8 Who is remembered as Dirty Harry, saying “Go ahead, make my day”, Clint ... (8)

9 Name the thin one of a renowned comic film duo (6)

10 To sanction, is to do what (8)

11 What are crude mixtures of finely divided minerals (6)

14 To lower in dignity, is to do what (6)

17 What is the melting of the insulation of a nuclear reactor called (8)

18 Name the German physicist known for pioneering research in nuclear physics, Hans .... (6)

19 What is a dish of beaten eggs, fried, and often served folded around other ingredients (8)

20 Name the WA town that is the depot for the Barrow Island oilfield (6)

21 Which spider is often called a triantelope (8)

DOWN

1 Munich is the capital of which S German State (7)

2 What is another name for the breastbone (7)

3 What is a structure of latticework (7)

4 What, in chemistry, is a salt of nitric acid (7)

5 Which oxide contains two atoms of oxygen per molecule (7)

6 What is a feeling of offence or resentment (7)

11 Name a large extinct species of elephant (7)

12 Name a large sailing vessel, formerly used by Spain (7)

E-QUATIONS

Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

13 Name a group of Hollywood sisters (7)

14 What is an underground prison cell (7)

15 Name a member of a secret Sicilian society (7)

16 What is a hinged movable flap of an aeroplane wing (7)

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.

WHICH WORDS

1 AMBIGUOUS

(a) Of doubtful nature

(b) Involving both sides

(c) Ready to be won over

2 DETERGE

(a) To wipe off

(b) To hinder or prevent

(c) To rid of poison or the effects of it

BIYWORD

Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.

CLUES:

Chat (coll): ...-bag (3)

Criticize (5)

Front part of shoe (3)

Greek letter (7)

Perspire (5)

Phone text (3)

Reduced in price (7)

Select (3)

Tarpaulins (abbr) (5)

Yet to be paid (5)

SOLUTIONS SUDOKU

QUICK THINK

Notice

1.

This

The

The

-

To

Applications are invited for the position of Secretary/Treasurer to the Myrtleford Cemetery Trust.

Roles and duties, conditions of employment and remuneration and application form can be obtained by contacting the Secretary.

All enquiries to the Secretary at Myrtleford Cemetery Trust on myrtlefordcemetery24@gmail.com or on 0473 535 502

Closing date April 12, 2024. POULTRY AUCTION

Helmsman style Saturday, April 6, 10am-11am, Myrtleford Showgrounds

All enquiries to Nick 0408 447 222 or alpinepoultryclub @gmail.com or follow on Facebook

11/2011 Colorado RCLTR, duel cab, 3lt Isuzu diesel, manual trans, tyres 80-90%, new spare, performance program, pedal boost controller, canopy, tubliner, nudge bar and driving lights, tow bar 2.5 tonne, 183,000km, just serviced, RWC, reg (1IO3TK) till 10/24,

Life membership for Max

MYRTLEFORD INDOOR SPORTS COMPLEX

AFTER over three decades of dedication and service, Max Jagoe was recently awarded a life membership to his beloved Myrtleford Indoor Sports Complex.

The long time volunteer has done practically everything there is to do at the stadium over the last 35 odd years, volunteering uncountable hours to the service and management of the complex.

Max first started his involvement with the Myrtleford Indoor Sports Complex in the 1990s, when his good mate Jim Murtagh and his family took over the management of the place.

From there, Max has given of his time unquestioningly, and according to Myrtleford Indoor Sports Complex secretary Ben McIntyre, has never looked back.

“Max went out there a lot to watch the Murtagh family play basketball, he basically helped out over the years, volunteered a lot of time,” he said.

“He was there to help with the canteen, opening up, collecting money from door entry.

“Once the Murtagh family ceased management around the time the new stadium was built, Max stayed on and continued to help out, volunteer.

“For years he helped out with the

volleyball, netball, the basketball, the squash, the badminton, lifeball, all user groups.

“He’s been there to help out, and without Max, some of those sports may not have been able to be played.

“He’s been an important part of the sporting community over the last 34 years.”

The committee were planning to surprise Max with an impromptu ceremony last Friday, but his eagerness and unthinking willingness to help out however he can almost spoiled the surprise.

“I rang him last week, it was a surprise ceremony we conducted on the Friday night, I went out to see him, to ask if he could pop out to the stadium at 6.30 to help us open up, because we wanted to

 MIGHTY VOLUNTEER: Max Jagoe (left) alongside MDBA life members Gianna Bromley and Les Stevens.

 MAX IS THE MAN: Max Jagoe was overjoyed to receive a life membership to the Myrtleford Indoor Sports Complex.

surprise him, and he didn’t have to think twice about it, he said he’d be there,” McIntyre said.

“He turned up at 6.15pm, turned up early and surprised us a bit – we were banking on him being there at 6.30pm, but he got there early.

“He loved it, we was very happy, you couldn’t wipe the smile off of his face, he was very ecstatic to receive the award.

“He’s been a real asset to the community and we hope that he can continue to help us, we’re really proud of Max.”

Also recently conferred were a pair of life memberships to the Myrtleford and District Basketball Association, awarded to Gianna Bromley and Les Stevens for their many years of service to the association.

Dederang-Mount Beauty hit the road in season opener

TALLANGATTA & DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE

By DANIEL SAVILLE

IT has been an off-season of transition and forced change for Dederang-Mount Beauty, but that will all be forgotten once the first siren sounds to start the Tallangatta & District Football League season this Saturday afternoon.

All 12 teams will possess hope and optimism as they

throw themselves into the journey of a long and often arduous path to Sandy Creek in September.

Despite the high turnover of players since their last game in 2023, the Bombers have managed to build a list that should enable them to field two full teams for each game this season, as well as the huge addition of the under seventeen side, which has been out of action for a few years due to a lack of players.

Alongside Jaydn Chalmers, senior co-coach Tom McGhee was forthright in his assessment and expectations for the season.

“We have no doubt that we have lost some of our best players from the last few seasons but we are seeing that as an opportunity to breathe some new life into the team,” McGhee said.

“As we’ve said all along, we aren’t going to be putting too much pressure on our

group to reach a certain goal or target.

”Most of the group haven’t played together before so it might take a bit of time to find our feet and play our best footy.

“In saying that, Jaydn and I have a lot of belief in our young group that we can be very competitive and will aim to play an exciting and attacking brand of footy.”

Round one opponent Tallangatta holds no fears for

Dederang-Mount Beauty, who took home the four points in a thrilling victory at Rowen Park in round 11 last year, and McGhee is hoping for the same result this time around.

“We haven’t heard too much about how the Hoppers will be shaping up for the season ahead but from our understanding, they will be in a similar situation to us this year – a young group looking to build as the sea-

son progresses,” McGhee said.

“I’m expecting it to be a good contest with both sides hungry to start the season off on the right foot and set the season up from there.

”It would be great to have the community behind us this season to cheer on a new-look outfit with plenty of new faces to the area and we can’t wait to see how much we can improve as a group.”

Easter golf a

THE pleasant weather across the long weekend brought out the numbers to the Myrtleford Golf Club.

Saturday, March 30

Coles Stableford AMCR 71

AWCR 74

A grade winner: Brad Carroll (7) 37 pts c/b. A grade runner up: David Rowe (10)

37 pts. B grade winner: Jason Gilbert (14) 40 pts. B grade runner up: Chris Rowney (14) 39 pts. C grade winner: Ben Norman-Kennedy (32)

36 pts c/b. C grade runner up: Andrew McKerral (19)

36 pts.

Ball winners: L Rayner 36,

D Rossato 36, G Veldman 35, J Martin 35, C McKerral 35, J Whitford 35, C Smith 35, P Veldman 35, G Black 35, M Stevens 34 c/b.

Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Paul Evans, 4th 2nd shot: Brian Caldwell, 8th: David Clark, 14th: Keidan Rayner, 16th: Paul Cowman. Raffle winner: Luke Rayner.

Thursday, March 28

Coles - Stableford - AWCR 74

A grade winner: Kerry Newton (21) 36pts. A grade runner up: Ann Hazeldine (33) 35pts.

Ball winners: Kerry Chapman 34pts, Carolyn Prowse 33pts.

Foodworks NTPs - 14th: Kerry Newton.

Nine hole runner up: Marg Fitridge (34) 17pts.

Wednesday, March 27

Coles Stableford AMCR 71

A grade winner: Jakob Piddington (25) 40 pts c/b. A grade runner up: Warren Rowney (25) 40 pts.

Ball winners: J Costello 37, D Clark 36, C Rowney 35, S Piddington 34 c/b.

Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Alan Rockliff, 4th 2nd shot: Craig Shewell, 8th: Chris

at Myrtleford

Rowney, 14th: Craig Shewell.

Tuesday, March 26

Coles - Stableford - AWCR 74

A grade winner: Ann Hazeldine (33) 35pts c/b. A grade runner up: Jan Roseby (15) 35 pts c/b.

Ball winners: Liz Orton 34pts, Barb Welch 33pts c/b, Carolyn Prowse 33pts c/b.

Foodworks NTPs - 8th: Liz Orton, 14th: Jan Roseby, 16th: Sarah Deas.

Nine hole winner: Betty Newton (27) 17 pts c/b. Nine hole runner up: Kaye Holmes (40) 17pts.

BLOCKBUSTER WEEK AT MOUNT BEAUTY GOLF CLUB

WEDNESDAY, March 27

was a front nine comp for some of the Ladies which was won by Ute Svboda with 20 points from Lynda Barter with 18 points.

The ladies also had an 18-hole comp the same day which was won by Carol Bartholomew with 37 points from Liz Harvey and Gill Harrowfield, both with 33 points.

NTP on the seventh (second shot) was Liz Harvey.

On Easter Saturday, the ladies were led home by Gill Harrowfield on the front nine with her 17 points on a countback from Lynda Barter.

The 18-hole comp was won by Karen Etherton with a whopping 40 points from Liz Harvey with 39 points, while NTP (second shot) on the seventh was again Liz Harvey.

The men also played the front nine on Wednesday, March 27 with David Drew proving victorious with his 23 points from Macca Deans and Will Hood, both 21 points.

Ivan Mock rounded out the podium with his 20 points.

NTP on the seventh was Allan Retallick, while the ninth was won by Will Hood.

Stableford was the name of the game on Easter Saturday for the men, which was won by Mick Luscombe with 39 points from 4 others on 37 points, Tristan Hall, Stuie Jelbart, Ross

POWER DUO: Last weekend was the grand final of the Chris Rigoni Shield. Past winners Paul Tanner and Jon Mercuri defeated Craig McKerral and Doc Rossato.

Rynehart and Dave Etherton.

On 36 points were Victor Selway and Michael Bartholomew.

NTP on the seventh was Alex Taylor, along with the Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post Office.

The ninth went to Mick Luscombe, the 17th to Peter Dilley and the money was won by Mick Luscombe on the 18th.

A large turnout, 51 play-

ers, for the club’s Easter Monday Four Ball Ambrose was very welcome as was the barbecue cooked by Len Tonn, Joe Mero and Jim Crebbin after the round.

The sausages for the barbecue were kindly donated by Will Hood from the Tawonga South Butchery.

Will also donated peak caps for the winners in Brett Williams, Sam Perry, Alex Taylor and Ali Barr with a net 55 on a countback from Alec

Harrowfield, Ross Wilson, Tristan Hall and David Drew.

Taff Sullivan, Peter Hertzog, Mick Luscombe and Peter Johns also got a ball each for their net 57.125.

NTP on the seventh and the 18th was Roger Church, along with the Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post Office.

The ninth went to Michael Bartholomew, the 17th to Ali Barr, and the money on the 18th went to Paddy Dodd.

Lions’ season starts this weekend

AFTER taking the bye last weekend, it’s go time for Whorouly’s footballers and netballers.

The Lions will kick off their season this weekend at Friendlies Oval in Benalla, up against the Panthers.

However, not all grades will take to the field and court, with the Panthers pulling out of the reserve football and B reserve netball competitions for 2024, due to a lack of numbers.

The senior footballers will be looking to build on their strong form against the Panthers last year, having won both clashes in 2023.

The Lions will come out swinging, eager to post an early win under new coach Lachy Moore, who said he has been enjoying the build up to the first bounce.

“I’ve found coaching so far very enjoyable,” he said.

“I haven’t had to get into the coaching on the gameday part, and so that anxiety hasn’t been there just yet.

“Coaching and taking drills and being able to help the boys in that regard comes as a bit second-nature to me, I’m not too far out of my comfort zone as yet.

“For one reason or another we’ve had slim pickings of wins in the last few seasons, a few seasons we thought we should’ve had a couple more, been in contention for the bottom end of the finals, but we haven’t been able to get that full game where we take the chocolates.

“I have every desire to win and make an impact where we can, and the boys are well on track.”

Over on the netball court, Whorouly will be competitive in all grades, but Benalla are not to be underestimated.

With a new coach at the helm and a slightly different A grade squad taking to the court at 2.15pm, the match is sure to be electric.

A/B grade coach Kelly Cousins said both sides would be ready for their first match.

“We’re getting some connections in, had a few players away but they’ve been back these last couple of weeks,” she said.

“We’re getting some solid hit-outs to form what will be our A and B grade sides.”

Whorouly takes on Benalla All Blacks this Saturday at Friendlies Oval, with matches commencing from 9.30am.

WINNERS: Easter stableford winners Sam Perry, Alex Taylor, Brett Williams and Ali Barr.

WINNER: Kerry Newton played well.

Annual Easter tennis comp the ‘best tournament ever’

By NATHAN DE VRIES

THE Myrtleford Lawn Tennis Club’s most recent annual Easter Tournament has been hailed as one of the best iterations the club has ever run, after a phenomenal long weekend of tennis action.

Hundreds of players flocked to the club’s pristine and well-maintained courts over the four days of competition.

The men’s open singles title

was taken out by Bendigo’s Aiden Fitzgerald, the eighth time he’s triumphed at Myrtleford, while the women’s open singles title was claimed by Kelly Bucewicz, her fifth crown at the tournament.

Myrtleford Lawn Tennis Club president Peter Ternes was thankful for the hard work done by the club to make the event run so smoothly.

“It was one of the best tournaments we’ve ever had – if not the best, then one of the

best we’ve ever had,” he said.

“We were spoilt by four days of great weather, it was one of the biggest set of entries we’ve ever had, and there was great cooperation from our players and efforts by our club members.

“We had 305 registered players in 510 event entries, we had another 70 juniors entered in 115 events.

“Everything went well on and off the court, the support from many of our members was just brilliant.”

NOTABLE RESULTS BY LOCALS

 Milla Corcoran - runner up, girls 12 & under singles; winner, girls 12 & under doubles; winner, girls 14 & under doubles; runner up, 13 & under mixed doubles.

 Claye Corcoran – runner up, 13 & under mixed doubles; runner up, boys 12 & under doubles

 Taj Brundell - runner up, boys 12 & under doubles.

 Rylan Frecklington – winner, boys 14 & under doubles.

 Gemma Corcoran – runner up, girls 14 & under doubles.

 Shayla Power - runner up, girls 14 & under doubles.

 Ethan Browne – runner up, boys 16 & under singles.

 Sam Sacco – runner up, 16 & under mixed doubles.

 Laura Cartwright - runner up, 16 & under mixed doubles.

 Alex Salmon – semi-finals, women’s B grade singles.

 Trudy Rigoni – winner, women’s open doubles; runner up, women’s A grade doubles.

 Kath Morgan – semi-finals, women’s B grade doubles.

The full list of results can be found at https://tournaments.tennis.com.au and by searching for ‘Myrtleford’ in the search bar.

Zelk Shuttleworth.

Oscar Ford.

Oscar Benson.

Milla Corcoran.

Laura Cartwright.

George Whitfield.

PHOTOS: Janet Watt Gemma Corcoran.

Alex Salmon.

Ethan Browne.

WINNERS AND LOSERS

OVENS AND MURRAY SENIORS LADDER

SCOREBOARD RESERVES RESULTS

WODONGA RAIDERS 5.3 8.4 10.5 12.9.81

LAVINGTON 2.2 3.4 5.8 11.9.75

GOALS: WODONGA RAIDERS: Tom Bracher 5, Cameron Ellis-Yolmen 2, Brendon Kantilla 2, Nelson Bowey 1, Nick Bracher 1, Connor Taylor 1. LAVINGTON: Tim Oosterhoff 4, Jack

Costello 2, Jack Driscoll 2, William Glanvill 1, Tim Hanna 1, Conor Willis 1. BEST: WODONGA

RAIDERS: Bradley St John, Cooper Daly, Tom Bracher, Cameron Ellis-Yolmen, Ned Conway, Max Glass. LAVINGTON: William Glanvill, Jack Costello, Tim Hanna, Drew Beavan, Tom Hargreave, Shaun Driscoll.

GOALS: WANGARATTA: Callum Moore 3, Michael Newton 3, Fraser Holland-Dean 2, Patrick Naish 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Stuart Booth 2, Alexander Marklew 2, Elijah Amery 1, Will Christie 1, Samuel Murray 1, Finn Osborne 1, Ky Williamson 1. BEST: WANGARATTA: Hunter Gottschling, Bradley Melville, Michael Bordignon, Aidan Tilley, Fraser Ellis, Patrick Naish. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Kieren Parnell, Will Christie, Alexander Marklew, Jace Mcquade, Justin Lewis, Will Nolan. WANGARATTA

NETBALL SCORES THIRDS RESULTS

A GRADE

Wangaratta 54 def Wangaratta Rovers 50

Wodonga Raiders 53 def Lavington 37

Corowa Rutherglen 40 def Albury 28

Myrtleford 48 def by North Albury 52

Yarrawonga 45 def Wodonga 34

B GRADE: Wodonga Raiders 46 def Lavington 33; Wangaratta 46 def Wang Rovers 25; Corowa Rutherglen 37 def by Albury 46; Myrtleford 36 def by North Albury 58; Yarrawonga 33 def by Wodonga 41.

C GRADE: Wodonga Raiders 57 def Lavington 31; Wangaratta 39 def Wang Rovers 33; Corowa Rutherglen 33 def by Albury 44; Myrtleford 40 drew with North Albury 40; Yarrawonga 41 def Wodonga 32.

UNDER 17s: Wodonga Raiders 61 def Lavington 24; Wangaratta 26 def by Wang Rovers 46; Corowa Rutherglen 50 def Albury 35; Myrtleford 30 def by North Albury 39; Yarrawonga 24 def by Wodonga 57.

UNDER 15s: Wodonga Raiders 53 def Lavington 30; Wangaratta 37 def by Wang Rovers 69; Corowa Rutherglen 31 def by Albury 65; Myrtleford 38 def North Albury 19; Yarrawonga 18 def by Wodonga 40

Wangaratta 6.8.44 def by Wang Rovers 8.5.53

BEST: WANGARATTA: Hamish Laverty, Oscar Roberts, Max Bihun, Chad Donald, Owain Boyle. WANGARATTA ROVERS Oscar Clelland, Cooper Gracie, Harry McMonigle, Cooper Boman, Harvey Correll. GOALS: WANGARATTA: Max Bihun 4, Connor Hughes 1, Corey Petersen 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS : Oscar

Clelland 5, Preston Coleman 1, Ryley Ely 1, Lucas Webb 1.

Myrtleford 6.8.44 def North Albury 6.7.43

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Harry Stripeikis, Fearghus Jones, Jack

Hazeldine, Bailey Paul, Samuel Crisp, Nicholas Hall. NORTH

ALBURY: Christian Moncrieff, Connor Hetherton, Max Heriot, Ollie Bruce, Zach Graham. GOALS: MYRTLEFORD:, Lachlan Barbour 1, Oliver Bedendo 1, Samuel Crisp 1, Nicholas Hall 1, Tai Miller 1, Harry Stripeikis 1. NORTH ALBURY:, Max Heriot 3, Liam Hetherton

1, Toby Hunt 1, Marty Norman 1.

Wod. Raiders 2.7.19 def by Lavington 8.10.58

Corowa R’glen 3.3.21 def by Albury 10.10.70

Yarrawonga 7.8.50 drew with Wodonga 7.8.50

ROUND 2 -APRIL6

ALBURY vs WODONGA RAIDERS

WANG ROVERS vs COROWA R’GLEN

NORTH ALBURY vs WANGARATTA

WODONGA vs MYRTLEFORD

LAVINGTON vs YARRAWONGA

GOALS: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: Sam Dunstan 2, Darcy Hope 1, Jesse Johnstone 1, Christian Masson Moyle 1. ALBURY: Jacob Conlan 4, Lachlan Tiziani 4, Mat Walker 3, Fletcher Carroll 2, Jeff Garlett 2, Jake Gaynor 2, Kolby Heiner-Hennessy 2, Charlie McGrath 2, Tom O’Brien 2, Jackson Kelly 1, Brayden O’Hara 1, Elliott Powell 1. BEST: COROWA

RUTHERGLEN: Connor Leslie, Joe Hansen, Brady Morton, Nicholas Wright, Jedd Longmire, Ryan Eyers. ALBURY: Jeff Garlett, Elliott Powell, Lachlan Tiziani, Jay Hillary, Kolby HeinerHennessy, Hamish Gilmore.

GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Ryley Bouker 4, Lachlan Murphy-Dale 2, Brody Ricardi 2, Thomas Cappellari 1, Simon Curtis 1. NORTH ALBURY: Joshua Minogue 4, Ben Fulford 3, Isaac Campbell 1, Nathan Dennis 1, Cody Gardiner 1, Bradley Hutchison 1, Cayden Winter 1.

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Zac Pethybridge, Mitch Dalbosco, Ryley Bouker, Matthew Munro, Lachlan P Hourigan, Lachlan Murphy-Dale NORTH ALBURY: Cayden Winter, Julian Hayes, Jack Reynolds, Jack Penny, Joshua Minogue, Ben Fulford.

GOALS: YARRAWONGA: Nicholas Fothergill 4, Matthew Casey 3, Leigh Masters 2, William Wheeler 2, Ryan Bruce 1, Ben Coghill 1, Daniel Howe 1, Logan Morey 1, Will Robinson 1, Harrison Wheeler 1. WODONGA: Noah Spiteri 2, Ethan Redcliffe 1, Kyle Winter-Irving 1. BEST: YARRAWONGA: Lach Howe, William Wheeler, Daniel Howe, Harrison Wheeler, Nicholas Fothergill, Ryan Bruce. WODONGA: Charlie Morrison, Noah Spiteri, Jack O’Sullivan, Matthew Wilson, Joshua Mathey, Noah Bradshaw.

WINNERS AND LOSERS

OVENS AND KING SENIORS LADDER

A GRADE:

Bonnie Doon 74 def Benalla 36

Moyhu 27 def by Greta 55

Bright 28 def by Tarrawingee 46

King Valley 38 def Milawa 41

B GRADE: Bonnie Doon 87 def Benalla 14; Moyhu 23 def by Greta 29; Bright 23 def Tarrawingee 28; King Valley 24 def by Milawa 78

B RESERVE: Bonnie Doon vs Benalla; Moyhu 29 def by Greta 53; Bright 45 def Tarrawingee 38; King Valley 10 def by Milawa 39

C GRADE: Bonnie Doon 63 def Benalla 17; Moyhu 29 def by Greta 59; Bright 38 def Tarrawingee 30; King Valley 34 def Milawa 31

UNDER 15s: Bonnie Doon 43 def Benalla 7; Moyhu 22 def by Greta 19; Bright 16 def Tarrawingee 8; King Valley vs Milawa

*Not all scores available at time of print.

Wangaratta 7.8.50 def

Wang Rovers 2.13.25

BEST: WANGARATTA: Harrison Smart, Patrick Wright, Tom Montgomery, Jesse Bianco, Josh Tweedale, Charley

Holland-Dean. WANGARATTA

ROVERS: Riley Allan, Joel Smith, Sam Nolan, Jai Dal Zotto, Noah Amery, Cameron Chamberlain.

GOALS: WANGARATTA: Jayden Adamo 2, Jesse Bianco 1, Ethan Donald 1, Ned Gorman 1, Thomas Gorman 1, Charley

Holland-Dean 1. WANGARATTA

ROVERS: Riley Allan 1, Connor Crimmins 1.

Myrtleford 6.5.41 def by North Albury 11.13.79

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Addison Bedendo, Jake Riley, lachlan plummer, Levi Young, Harry McKerral, Ned Turner. NORTH ALBURY: No best players have been selected.

GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Lachlan Plummer 2, Addison Bedendo 1, Brody Bouker 1, Charlie Crisp 1, Anthony Laspina 1. NORTH

ALBURY: Keith Tallent 5, Alex Kohne 4, Thomas Anderson 1, Jackson Carey 1

Wodonga Raiders 4.5.29 def by Lavington 9.5

Corowa Rutherglen 0.2.2 def by Albury 21.16.142

Yarrawonga 6.9.45 def by Wodonga 7.6.48

SCOREBOARD RESERVES RESULTS

GOALS: BONNIE DOON: James Law 8, Will Foster 6, Luke Murray 5, Matthew Hedin 3, Joel Sanford 3, Campbell Smedley 2, Al Bennett 1, Patrick Revell 1. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Damian Broughton 1, Jordan Smith 1. BEST: BONNIE DOON: James Law, Will Foster, James Fox, Peter Cairns, Jayjay Curtin, Beau Smith. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Chelton Orchard, David Button, Jake Jones, Jesse Walker, Nathan Buhagiar, Sam Cox.

MOYHU 3.4 3.5 4.5 7.7.49

GRETA 8.2 16.4 22.8 12.13.150

GOALS: MOYHU: Sam Phillips 2, Harrison Bell 1, Joe Stefani 1, Matthew Thrum 1, Harry Verdon 1, Darby Weet 1. GRETA: Cody Crawford 7, Frazer Judd 4, Daniel Cassidy 3, Brenton Newbold 3, Joshua Bell 1, Paul Fruzynski 1, Jack Kelly 1, Lachie Kennett 1, Jarrod Morham 1, Brodie Pearson 1. BEST: MOYHU: Joe Stefani, Jett Roberts, Bailey Zimmermann, Dylan Carmody, Nick English, Tom Bannon. GRETA: No best players have been selected.

BRIGHT 7.2 18.4 22.6 31.10.196

TARRAWINGEE - - - 2.2.14

GOALS: BRIGHT: Cooper Thomason 10, Declan Bren 5, Luke Quirk 4, Tyler Thomason 4, Samuel Dalbosco 2, Nick Lebish 2, Patrick Bren 1, Jai Dylan Dykstra 1, James Love 1, Max Rampling 1. BEST: BRIGHT: Cooper Thomason, Nick Lebish, Jai Dylan Dykstra, Max Rampling, Joe Gray, Michael Hastie. TARRAWINGEE: No best players have been selected.

KING VALLEY 4.2 5.5 7.8 9.9.63

MILAWA 0.2 4.8 6.12 9.16.70

GOALS: KING VALLEY: Ryan Wait 3, Anthony Ciancio 2, William Davies 2, Jacob Finger 1, Connor Shanley 1. MILAWA: Braydon Kearns 3, Ben Clarke 2, Jared Lea 2, Daniel Bihun 1, Xavier Ham 1. BEST: KING VALLEY: Charlie Davies, Beau Wheeler, Sam Evans, Ryan Wait, Mackenzie Hughes, Daniel Maples/ MILAWA: Braydon Kearns, Aiden Bihun, Michael Batey, xavier Ham, Jarryd Wallace, Brandon Fitzpatrick.

ROUND 2

SATURDAY, APRIL 6

BRIGHT vs MILAWA — BENALLA vs WHOROULY

GRETA vs GOORAMBAT — NORTH WANG vs MOYHU

TARRAWINGEE vs KING VALLEY — Bonnie Doon - BYE

Moyhu 2.6.18 def by Greta 15.10.100

BEST: MOYHU: Richard Marais, Jack Manners, Hayden Currie, Jaimon Mcgeehan, Leroy Dowling, Ryan Hargreaves. GRETA: Charlie Hernandez, Ben Hogan, Aaron Green, Osbert Ramage, Lachlan Alexander, Lachlan Hadden.

Bright 21.16.142 def

Tarrawingee 5.3.33

BEST: BRIGHT: Dale Breeding, Thomas Gray, Riley Bacon, John Lantjin, Mikka Paulsen, Thomas Mullane-Grant.

TARRAWINGEE: No best players have been selected.

King Valley 5.1.31 def by

Milawa 15.14.104

BEST: KING VALLEY: No best players have been selected.

MILAWA: No best players have been selected.

Bonnie Doon vs Benalla All Blacks

*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.

MATCH PREVIEWS

Strong showing on the court

O&K NETBALL

BRIGHT’S A grade squad may surprise some squads this season, based on an incredibly promising performance against Tarrawingee on Saturday.

While last year’s preliminary finalists proved too good for Bright 28-46, it was a positive performance by the home side.

Bright kept pace with the Bulldogs through the first term, only trailing by eight goals, before Tarrawingee put the foot down and pushed the margin out to 12 goals by the half.

Bright tried to work their way back into the match

but were outclassed on the courts by the polish of the Bulldogs, the home side trailing 19-34 with one quarter to play.

The Bulldogs pushed their case through the final term, and while Bright was able to shoot nine goals, the margin was too great to overcome.

The B grade squad was more successful in their bout with Tarrawingee, taking the win 35-28, while the B reserve side got up 45-38.

The C grade squad had a solid win 38-30, while the 15 and under side came home winners 16-8.

Bright will host last year’s runners up Milawa this weekend.

Mountain Men demolish ‘Dogs by 182 points to start season

■ From back page

“We’ve got a pretty dangerous forward half now with Cooper Thomason, Luke Quirk, Declan Bren, and even young Tyler Thomason when he’s down there,” Harrison said.

“When the ball hits the ground, they’re pretty dangerous as well because they’re so quick.

“We were able to get the ball in there fairly well, the connection between midfield and forward half was really good.”

The Mountain Men face an old foe this weekend, hosting the ever-dangerous Milawa in round two.

“They’ll be a very solid team, no doubt about that at all, they’re a very good team, very hard to match up against,” Harrison said.

“They play a short kicking style game of footy, and they run hard.

“We know it’s going to be a much bigger challenge this week, but overall I think we’re ready for it.

“Those are the games you want to play, not the games where you know you’re going to win by 10, 20 goals – these games are going to be tight, and it’s going to mean a hell of a lot to get the four points.”

The reserves also came away with a win, 21.16 (142) to Tarrawingee’s 5.3 (33).

REBOUND: Monique Martin (left) transitions the ball out of Bright’s defensive end.

SOLID EFFORT: Kate Buckley and the Bright A grade side performed well in their opening round match against Tarrawingee, but came up short. PHOTOS: Charlotte Kilner

TACKLED: Tyler Thomason gets wrapped up by two Tarrawingee players.

TAP OUT: Joe Gray leaps in the ruck for the Mountain Men.

HANDS FREE: Sam Dalbosco handballs out of defence in Bright’s opening round win over Tarrawingee.

PHOTOS: Charlotte Kilner

Final quarter thriller for Saints MATCH REVIEWS

IT was almost the perfect way to kick off the 2024 season for Myrtleford, but North Albury had other ideas.

In front of a massive home crowd, the Saints led at every break but fell short in the last quarter, downed 10.12 (72) to 12.10 (82).

A four goal to two opening quarter set the stage for a blockbuster with the Saints ahead, but North Albury worked hard to bring the margin back to just three points by the half.

The tug-of-war continued through the third quarter, with neither side surging ahead.

With just a four point lead heading into the fourth term, the Saints worked valiantly in sweltering conditions, but an unfavourable breeze made it hard to get shots on goals, and North Albury managed to kick their way to the win.

Coach Craig Millar said his side performed well, but failed to make the most of their chances when it mattered.

“It was a tough loss for round one,” he said.

“I know the margin was quite close, but we led pretty much most of the day, we started the game really well, but unfortunately we just couldn’t keep it going.

“The second quarter hurt us the most, we kicked 2.6 in the second quarter and they kicked 4.1.

“We could’ve had a reasonably commanding lead at half-time but it wasn’t the case, and we didn’t make the most of the opportunities.

“In the end, I felt like we had a lot of the ball, but we just didn’t capitalise on our opportunities, particularly in the second quarter.”

While the hot weather and frenetic pace of the match made conditions extremely trying, Millar was impressed with his side.

STORIES

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

“There’s no doubt Ryley Bouker has had an interrupted preseason, he was outstanding kicking four,” Millar said.

“Lachie Murphy-Dale finished with two goals but he would’ve had six or eight shots on goal, he was extraordinarily dangerous for us.

“Brody Ricardi played another solid game for us, Tom Cappellari was good off the wing, Lachy Hourigan was good down back, and Zac Pethybridge I thought on debut did a reasonable job on Josh Minogue – he ended up kicking four but two or three of those would’ve been hard for any defender to have any impact on.

“We were really specific in the types of player we wanted to recruit, and all of those players played reasonably well on Sunday, as did our local guys too.”

The Saints will look to notch up their first win of the season this Saturday at Martin Park, taking on Wodonga Bulldogs, who were soundly defeated by Yarrawonga on the weekend.

“While the result didn’t look great, we know they played finals last year, they’re a really good side and they’ve recruited well, so I’m sure they’ll be looking to bounce back, as we will be,” Millar said.

“From what I saw, they had plenty of shots on goal, it looks like they probably didn’t make the most of their opportunities too - we’ll have to be really mindful of that this week.”

In the earlier matches, the reserves were handed a 38 point loss, 6.5 (41) to 11.13 (79), while the thirds snuck a one point triumph 6.8 (44) to 6.7 (43).

 WRAPPED UP: Alex Jacobs tries to burst through the tackle.

 DEBUTANT: Zac Pethybridge impressed in his first match for the Saints.

 HIGH FIVES: Lachie

Murphy-Dale and Toby Cossor celebrate a Myrtleford goal.

PHOTOS: Janet Watt

Nail-biter finish to Saints’ season opener

MYRTLEFORD fell just four goals short of a massive round one win on Easter Sunday, downed 48-52 by North Albury in the final minutes of the match.

A surging Hoppers outfit flew out of the blocks early, shooting five unanswered goals and controlling the ball well before Myrtleford found their first.

The Saints worked themselves back into the game, but North Albury answered with six goals straight to close out the quarter, with Myrtleford down 8-17.

Fill-in goalers Taylah Larkings and Daisy O’Kane shot Myrtleford back into the match, capitalising on turnovers to bring the margin back to just seven goals by the half.

Momentum continued to go the Saints’ way through the third, as the defence denied North Albury any real looks on goal, with the home team trailing by just two goals heading into the final 15 minutes of the game.

The scores were levelled with just four minutes to play, but North Albury with-

stood the pressure and shot seven goals straight to clinch the win.

Assistant coach Tina Way said coming so close to victory against a quality side was a positive for her squad.

“It was our first hit out as an A grade team, and North Albury definitely came out of the blocks and hit the ground running at a sprint,” she said.

“We were chasing them for the rest of the game, we were able to draw even with them at the start of the fourth, we were able to claw

it back in the last quarter.

“In the patches where we were clawing it back, we were very fluid and defensively strong and the attack systems were working.

“It’s the netball we’re going to see a lot more of this season, and we saw it in short bursts on Sunday.

“With due time through the season, we’ll continue to grow and build on that.”

New recruits Daisy O’Kane and Madeline Martin impressed in their first matches for the club, and will look to claim their maiden wins

this weekend against the Bulldogs.

“Daisy O’Kane and Maddy (Martin) are the new recruits for us this year, it was great to have them out on the court,” Way said.

“Their energy and excitement for Myrtleford and playing alongside us at their new club has been building for quite some time now and it was great to have them there.

“I know they were as disappointed with the loss as everybody else, they’ll be wanting to come out firing against Wodonga Bulldogs.

“Wodonga only went down to Yarrawonga by nine, so I’d say based on the two scorelines, them and us, it’s going to be a good match.

“I know they’ve got height in the goal circle, they’ve got youth through the midcourt as well as in the goal attack role, and defensively they never ever give up, so it’s going to be a good match.”

In other netball matches, the 15 and under squad took a 38-19 win, the 17 and under (30-39) and B grade (3658) sides lost, while the C grade side drew 40-40.

DEFENSIVE PRESSURE: Bec Piazza makes it difficult for North Albury’s shooters.

QUICK PASS: Evie Hughes works the ball through the midcourt.

FIRST GAMER: Daisy O’Kane looked impressive in her first game of netball for the Saints.

PHOTOS: Janet Watt

Sydney

Sydney

Jo Ross-Jackson .........................20

Round 2

Saturday 6th April

Albur y v Raiders Albury v Raiders

Wang Rovers v Corowa Rutherglen Rovers v Corowa Nth Albur y v Wangaratta Nth Albury v Wodonga v Myrtleford v Lavington v Yarrawonga v

Round 2

Saturday 6th April

Bright v Milawa v Milawa

Benalla v Whorouly Benalla v Greta v Goorambat v Nth Wangaratta v Moyhu Nth v Tarrawingee v King Valley v

BYE- Bonnie Doon

Round 1

Saturday 6th April 6th

Beechworth v Chiltern v Barnawartha v Mitta United v Tallangatta v Dederang Mt Beauty v Mt Thurgoona v Wodonga v Kiewa v Yackandandah v

Thursday, Apr 4

Adelaide vs Melbourne vs.

Friday, Apr 5

Brisbane vs Nth Melbourne vs. Port Adelaide vs Essendon vs.

Saturday, Apr 6

Sydney vs West Coast vs. West Coast

Carlton vs Freemantle vs. Geelong vs Western Bulldogs vs. Western

Sunday, Apr 7

Gold Coast vs GWS vs. Richmond vs St Kilda vs. Collingwood vs Hawthorn vs. Hawthorn

points to start season gyp Bright goes bang Bombers netballers ready for round one

By DANIEL SAVILLE

AFTER a promising pre-season campaign, the wait for DederangMount Beauty’s first game of the Tallangatta & District Netball Association season is almost over.

The Bombers finished 2023 in seventh position with nine wins and nine losses, but all teams are building for one of their biggest seasons to date, according to returning A grade netball coach Alex Dyde.

“With some very skilled players coming to the club, we’ve been fortunate to select a very strong A grade side and some A grade players from last year have moved into the B grade side, resulting in a solid looking B side this year too,” Dyde said.

“We had big numbers for trials this year for both returning and new players, which was great, and it should mean we have added depth across all grades and the overall playing group.

“Some of our reserve players who will have opportunities to step into the C grade side at different points in the year when there’s unavailability from selected players.”

The opening round of the season sees Dederang-Mount Beauty travel to Tallangatta, who will also be looking to rise up the ladder and return to finals netball.

The Bombers defeated the Hoppers by three goals in their only meeting in 2023 and Dyde expects another thrilling contest in their round one encounter.

“Tallangatta finished one spot above us last year and they are not to be underestimated and it should be a close match,” Dyde said.

“We expect them to be strong finals contenders this year and expect to see them at Sandy Creek in September.

“The first two rounds (Tallangatta and Barnawartha) will be telling for us and wins will help solidify a strong start to our ambitions to sit in that top five.

“The attitude across the A grade side is confident but realistic that finals are earned and we are willing to do the work to be ready to take those wins from round one.”

Mountain Men demolish ‘Dogs by

182

FOOTY’S BACK

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

BRIGHT’S senior football squad proved they’ll be just as powerful this season as they were last year, after handing Tarrawingee a 182-point drubbing at Pioneer Park on Easter Saturday.

From a relatively sedate opening term, the Mountain Men exploded, coming home winners 31.10 (196) to the Bulldogs’ 2.2 (14).

Bright had the run of play early, hitting targets inside 50 to head into quarter time with a seven-goal advantage, and from there, the floodgates opened.

An eight goal second quarter pushed the lead into triple figures, with last season’s leading goalkicker Cooper Thomason finding plenty of the footy in front of goal.

Tarrawingee had no answer for the Mountain Men, with all three lines performing their role and outperforming their opponent.

Coach Paul Harrison said it was a brilliant win to start their season.

“We were pretty well-prepared for it, we had a massive preseason,” he said.

“We knew they would be improved on last year, they came out fairly hard in the first 10 minutes, it was a pretty feisty game in the first 10-20 minutes.

“The boys were able to settle and move the ball really well, and they didn’t have many answers in their back line for when we got the ball in quick

“We were winning clearances most quarters, probably averaging plus six or seven clearances our way, which meant we were really on top through the middle.

“The back did their job when the ball went in there, the likes of Michael Elliott, Alexander Dalbosco, and Michael Hastie also intercepted a lot of their forward entries.”

Cooper Thomason ended with a bag of 10 goals to start his season, with new recruits Declan Bren (five), Luke Quirk (four) and Tyler Thomason (four) also impactful.

■ Continued page 25

TOBY Cossor and the Myrtleford Saints returned to the park in their opening round hit-out against North Albury on the Easter weekend. The Saints led at each break, but were downed by 10 points by the Hoppers.  Story and photos on page 26.

PHOTO: Janet Watt