First day of school across the campus
By PHOEBE MORGAN
AS students across the state commenced a new year of learning last week, students in the Alpine Shire were no exception.
One such student is Joshua Cox who is starting at Bright P-12 College as a prep this year.
Joshua said the primary school experiences he was looking forward to the most making art and playing games with his fellow classmates.
“I think the most challenging part of this year will be learning to write,” Joshua said.
“When I grow up, I want to be a professional mountain biker; it’s my favourite sport.”
A member of Joshua’s family said they were looking forward to Joshua making new friends and excited to see him enjoying the school environment.
One student who has already gone through primary school at Bright P-12 College is Phoebe Bardsley-Smith, who begins Year 7 this year.
“I’m most looking forward to the art classes,” Phoebe said.
“Art is my favourite subject: I love being creative and I particularly love painting, drawing and animation.
“I’m also excited about going on school camp this year.
“When I grow up, I plan to work in the eld of animation or perhaps join the defence force.
“I’d also love to visit Germany: I’m hoping to go on the German exchange with school when I’m older.
“I’m not really into sport, but I like walking my dog and riding my bike.
“Maths will probably be the most challenging part of the new year; it’s not my favourite.
Phoebe’s Mum Rachel said she loves Phoebe’s curious mind and is looking forward to seeing how the secondary sta at Bright P-12 College nurture her creative enthusiasm.
No matter the year level, teachers and support sta at Bright P-12 College are looking forward to what this year will have in store for all students.

APPRECIATION FOR THE ARTS: YEAR 7 STUDENT, PHOEBE BARDSLEY-SMITH IS LOOKING FORWARD TO NURTURING HER CREATIVE SIDE IN ART CLASSES THIS YEAR.









Paraglider peril
By PHOEBE MORGAN
A NUMBER of emergency services and arborists were called to assist in the recovery of a paraglider who had taken a wrong turn and crashlanded in a tree at Mystic Park in Bright last week.
At approximately midday on Wednesday, January 29, a paraglider in her thirties, who had taken o from the Mystic Hill launch point, became stuck near the top of a tree and required assistance returning to the ground.
Other members of the North East Victoria Hang Gliding Club (NEVHGC) then called emergency services and were relieved at the swi response.
“The rescue was coordinated by the Victoria Police Search and Rescue Unit with assistance from a skilled and accomplished local arborist,” Acting Senior Sergeant of the Bright police, Romina McEwan said.
“We had a multi-agency response; the Bright SES, CFA, Ambulance and Fire Rescue Victoria were all on scene.
“The local arborist did an amazing job working together with the emergency services to help her back to solid ground.
“She was assessed by Ambulance Victoria o cers and thankfully she had no injuries.
“We’re very relieved and thankful for the safe retrieval of this paraglider.
“This was a great result for all involved.”
Bright SES Controller, Graham Gales also voiced his gratitude for all emergency responders present on the day.
“We’re really appreciative of the arborist, Tom Nicholson and his team from Tom’s Rural Tree Services, for their contribution to the rescue,” he said.
“Everyone worked together really well and got the best result out of this high-angle rescue.”



BE PREPARED: No matter the emergency, have a plan in place and discuss it with all on your property.
Farmers invited to free emergency planning workshops
TOGETHER with the Country Fire Authority (CFA), Alpine Shire Council invites residents of Wandiligong to attend emergency planning sessions to support preparedness initiatives for the community.
Wandiligong is identi ed as a community at high risk of bushre and ember attack.
When residents are prepared for these risks, it can help the community to stay safe during times of disaster.
Council and the CFA are seeking to work together with the community to ensure that they are prepared for disasters, including bush res.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Councillor


WANDILIGONG RESIDENTS INVITED TO CONTRIBUTE TO EMERGENCY PLANNING
Sarah Nicholas, encouraged residents of Wandiligong to attend.

“While we may know our properties best, we are not the experts on disasters,” she said.
“By working together with council and the CFA, we can ensure that we are working together as a community to keep ourselves and our properties as safe as possible during times of heightened risk.”
Residents of Wandiligong are invited to ll out a short survey to determine when and how they would like to be involved in the emergency planning sessions.
The survey can be accessed by visiting: https://engage.alpineshire.vic.gov.au/wandiligong-community- re-planning
ALPINE Shire Council invites farmers in the Kiewa Valley and Upper Ovens Valley to attend workshops focused on supporting people to plan for emergency events. Council is holding two free workshops across Mount Beauty and Myrtleford in February to help farmers and farming enterprises prepare for emergencies to their properties, assets, and businesses.
The rst 72 hours of a disaster can be an unpredictable time, where people may be unable to access emergency services. By having a plan in place, farmers can work towards protecting their assets and future-proo ng their businesses.
Thee workshops will be held at the Mount Beauty Community Centre at 10am – 12pm on Wednesday, February 12; bookings at https://events.humanitix. com/the- rst-72-hours-freeworkshop-to-help-farmersprepare and; Myrtleford Senior Citizens’ Centre at 1pm –3pm on Tuesday, February 18; bookings at https:// events.humanitix.com/ the- rst-72-hours-freeworkshop-to-help-farmersprepare-myrtleford.





For more information, contact council on (03) 5755 0555 or emailing info@ alpineshire.vic.gov.au. The First 72 Hours is delivered by Alpine Shire Council and Moira Shire Council in conjunction with the Country Fire Authority (CFA), Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES), and Albury Wodonga Ethnic Communities Council (AWECC) and in consultation with the Hume Region Municipal Emergency Management Enhancement Group.




Myrtleford Lions to line up skin cancer check van
THE Myrtleford Lions Club is doubling down on its commitment to community health, bringing the Lions V District Cancer Foundation’s ‘Skin Check and Awareness Unit’ to the Myrtleford Community.
Updated details con rm the event will take place on February 15 and 16, running from 9am to 3:30pm each day, at the Myrtleford Recreation Reserve.
The mobile unit, which features two fully equipped consultation rooms along with disability access, will o er free skin checks to locals.
With Australia facing one of the highest rates of skin cancer globally, this initiative is a vital opportunity for residents to prioritize their health.
To attend, you’ll need to secure an appointment.
We’re thrilled to have local business support in creating meaningful opportunities for everyone in Myrtleford.
- LIONS CLUB SECRETARY, PAUL TANNER
A total of 51 slots will be available each day, resulting in 102 appointments across the two days.
The Myrtleford Lions Club will be managing the booking process and residents can book their spot by calling 0431 757 875 between 9am and 3:30pm from now until February 14.
Your full name and contact information will be necessary
when making your bookings.
Appointments are necessary, as walk-ins cannot be accommodated.
Each booking reserves a speci c time with exibility limited due to the high demand.
If unforeseen circumstances lead to a late arrival or no-show, a slot would be opened to others a er a 10-minute grace period.
This life-saving initiative wouldn’t be possible without strong community backing.
Signi cant thanks go to the Railway Motel and the Country Women’s Association for their generous support in making this event a reality.
“Events like these are all about the town coming together,” Lions Club Secretary, Paul Tanner said.
“We’re thrilled to have local business support in creating meaningful opportunities for everyone in Myrtleford.”
Mark your calendar and act quickly to book.
With limited slots available, this is your chance to take proactive steps in safeguarding your skin health while supporting a cause that’s rooted in the heart of Myrtleford.

NEW ROLES: Anglican Bishop of Wangaratta Clarence Bester (second from le ), supported by the Venerable Mario Hendricks (le ), collates Benalla’s Melissa Clark, Rutherglen-Chiltern’s Scott Jessup and Beechworth-Eldorado’s Matthew Healy as archdeacons at evensong in Christ Church Beechworth on Sunday. PHOTO: Jamie Kronborg
Bishop collates archdeacons
BEECHWORTH-Eldorado Anglican priest Matthew Healy, Rutherglen-Chiltern’s Scott Jessup and Mansfield’s former priest Melissa Clark - now vicar of Holy Trinity Benallahave been appointed archdeacons in the Anglican Diocese of Wangaratta.
The three were ‘collated’ by Bishop Clarence Bester in a service of evensong in Beechworth’s Anglican Christ Church on February 2.
The term denotes a bishop’s admission of a priest to a position of spiritual care and leadership.
An archdeacon takes a senior role in the Anglican church, making important contributions to church mission and strategy and supporting parish clergy, their families, churchwardens and area or rural deans. Since 1855, more than five vicars or rectors of Beechworth have been archdeacons. Canon Healy becomes archdeacon of the Ordinary, assisting the bishop, Canon Jessup becomes archdeacon of the Hume, succeeding Albury’s Peter MacLeod-Miller in that role, and Canon Clark becomes archdeacon of the Goulburn.
The bishop further commissioned area deans. Reverend Moira Evers of Alpine Anglican parish becomes area dean of the Hume and Reverend Jerome Francis of Shepparton’s St Augustine’s Anglican Church becomes area dean of the Goulburn.
The congregation at Sunday’s service included many from Wangaratta’s Holy Trinity Anglican Cathedral, St John’s Mansfield, St Mary’s Woodend, Holy Trinity Benalla, Rutherglen-Chiltern Anglican parish, Shepparton, Eldorado and Beechworth.


AT last week’s monthly council meeting, Alpine Shire Council discussed applying to the Essential Services Commission (ESC) for a higher rate cap for 2025/26 to introduce a cost-neutral revenue change for ratepayers.
The potential need for a higher rate increase is due to a change made by the Minister for Local Government to the Minister’s Good Practice Guidelines for Local Government Services Rates and Charges in December 2023.
Council chief executive o cer (CEO), William Jeremy, said the minister’s guidelines advised that it’s “not good practice” to include costs for public litter collection and bins in the waste management charge, as this fee is based on property value, not the actual service cost.
“Council currently collects a separate General Waste Charge on our rates notice, with up to

Council have informed the ESC of their intention to apply for a higher rate cap, but does not have to implement it.
$350K spent directly on managing public place waste per annum,” Mr Jeremy said.
“In order to follow the ministerial guidelines, we have three options: to apply for a higher rate cap to shi costs from the waste charge to rates; absorb the public waste costs into the budget; or review our delivery of public waste services to reduce costs.”
Mr Jeremy said applying for a one-o higher rate cap would result in a cost neutral impact on ratepayers while maintaining service delivery and is therefore the recommendation that was put forward to council at the January meeting.
“Absorbing the costs associated with public waste management would result in approximately $350k of lost revenue annually,” he said.
“This revenue loss, if absorbed, has the potential to impact service delivery into the future.”
A decision to proceed with the application would not bind council to adopting that cap when setting the rates and charges, and community engagement will be undertaken as part of the 2025/26 budget process.
The State Government caps rates increases under the Fair Go Rates System, which allows local governments to raise rates only in line
with the cap set by the minister. The rate cap limits the maximum amount a council can increase general rates and municipal charges.
The cap for 2025/26 has been set at 3.0 per cent.
If the rate cap does not meet a council’s needs, the council can submit a higher rate cap application to be allowed to set a higher rate for up to four years.
Should the Alpine Shire Council not undertake these processes now, it would be unable to apply for an exemption in time for this to be considered by council for budget adoption.
Oversight of the rate cap and applications for a higher rate, are managed by the Essential Services Commission (ESC).
For more information about council’s rates, visit www.alpineshire.vic.gov.au/residentsratepayers/rates-property/calculation-rates.




Open invitation to Myrtleford
Men’s Shed’s next cluster meeting
By PHOEBE MORGAN
REPRESENTATIVES of other
Men’s Sheds in the Alpine region, as well as newcomers and women members, are invited to attend an information session, hosted for the rst time by Myrtleford’s own Men’s Shed unit.
Men’s Sheds in the region routinely gather at these cluster meetings to discuss recent innovations, share information and talk about anything from their latest project to their beloved football team.
“This is an opportunity for any member of the Myrtleford community, or surrounding district, to come along and see what Men’s Sheds do,” secretary of Myrtleford’s Men’s Shed, Barry Holden said.
“We’ve been planning it for about three months.
“Lunch and morning tea will be provided and there will be an opportunity to visit and look around the Myrtleford Men’s Shed on the day.
“The sheds are places where people can gather; normally aimed at older people in the community, but they’re not exclusively for older members.
“It’s a place a couple of days a week, here in Myrtleford, they can gather, share interests and work on little home projects or group projects to help the community.
“Meeting attendees may be interested in becoming involved, or become a member or just drop in to say hello.
“One of our guest speakers on

the day includes Alana McLees from Halliday Solicitors, who will talk about wills, probate, power of attorney and other legal issues which members might want to know about.”
The Myrtleford Men’s Shed recently invited women to participate, under their own banner: the Myrtleford Women’s Shed.
“There are some Men’s Sheds who already have women as members,” Myrtleford Men’s Shed president, Neville Leonard said.
“We’ve had di erent ladies




speak to our members here about joining, so that started us thinking about getting them set up on their own.”
Mr Leonard said there is a small organising committee who are currently working on the details to get the Women’s Shed up and running.
“The ladies in the shed utilise the same space, but gather on di erent days, so they have autonomy of access to the facility,”
Mr Holden said.
“Ladies from the Albury Women’s Shed will be attending the clus-
ter meeting to share what they do.
“So, it’ll be a good opportunity for anyone at all in the Myrtleford and surrounding district to come along with an interest to become involved.”
The cluster meeting will be held at the Myrtleford Uniting Church, located at 1 Albert Street, with talks starting at 10am on Wednesday, February 19.
Anyone who is interested in attending to see how Men’s Sheds operate, contact Barry Holden: 0433 229 431 to RSVP anytime before the day.











School starts for Saint Mary’s students with a new principal
By PHOEBE MORGAN
SAINT Mary’s Primary School in Myrtleford started o the new school year last week with a new principal at the helm, Andrea O’Connor.
With a background of almost 25 years of teaching and working at Catholic Education Sandhurst (CES), Ms O’Connor aims to build on the work that is already happening at St Mary’s and create a connection with the broader community.
“I was just working as a leader of pedagogy at CES and have worked with St Mary’s in that position, so I knew what a fabulous school it was,” Ms O’Connor said.
“When Kitty Hancock decided to retire and I knew the position was going to be coming up, I was really excited to apply for it.
“I’m really honoured to be the new principal and I’m trying to ll her very big shoes, because she was a fantastic principal.

“I had aspirations to be a principal, but I needed to make sure the timing was right.
“I’ve been here for a few weeks, preparing and once the kids walked through the gate yesterday, it just felt really exciting.
“I’m really happy and honoured to be here and it’s a great sta , great community.
“There should be some really great things coming out of our school.”
Grades 1 to 6 started on Thursday last week and the foundation
pose for a commemorative photo with the new foundation class on their first day of primary school.
students started on Friday.
A er the foundation students acclimated to their new classroom and met their teachers, Ms O’Connor dropped by to introduce herself in person.
Together, the children said good morning to Ms O’Connor and a few even asked her questions directly.
The foundation students said they were looking forward to being at school this year.
A er getting to know each other, Ms O’Connor and foundation teacher Carolyn Deith led the chil-
dren outside, to take a break from the classroom and everyone assembled for a class photo.
“Going from kindergarten to starting school is a huge learning curve for them,” Ms O’Connor said.
“But it’s an exciting and important one.
“Usually, most schools have a bit of a staggered start, just so it’s not overwhelming for the foundations.
“To try and support that transition from kindergarten, we have a buddy system, so they’re paired up

with a Year 6 who will help them out on the playground.
“There’s always a special bond between the grade 6 and their foundation buddy.
“I think it’s a really great idea.
“We’re really all about ensuring every child gets exactly what they need and to build that whole child, both spiritually, academically and emotionally, to make them exceptional global citizens at the end and great contributors to the community once they leave our school.”
Parents and carers of new babies invited to weekly playgroup
PARENTS and carers are invited to Move and Groove Playgroup in Bright and Myrtleford, where they can share songs and nursery rhymes with their babies in a safe and supportive group environment.
Move and Groove Playgroup is specifically designed for parents and carers of babies aged 0-18 months, delivered by a qualified facilitator through Alpine Shire Council’s Maternal and Child Health program.
The Playgroup is held in both Bright and Myrtleford on a weekly basis and is free to attend.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, encouraged new parents and carers to take advantage of this free opportunity to socialise their babies in a supported space.
“Move and Groove Playgroup is a casual way to meet other people with young babies in a fun and judgementfree environment,” she said
“Every session is organised and facilitated by a qualified member of Council’s Maternal and Child Health program, so all you have to do is turn up.”
Move and Groove Playgroup is held all year round, including school holidays, in Bright at 10am every Monday at The Pavilion in Pioneer Park and in Myrtleford at 10am every Friday at Myrtleford Library.
For more information, contact council’s maternal and child health team by ringing 0417 957 627 or emailing mch@alpineshire.vic.gov. au.



Spartans return to Bright for this year’s race
By PHOEBE MORGAN
THE world-renowned company in obstacle course racing (OCR) Spartan, is putting on a new event weekend at Pioneer Park in Bright, with an open invitation to new racers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
Held over February 22 and 23, the weekend will host a variety of courses including 5kms, 10kms, 21kms and an endurance event, the Hurricane Heat, a four-hour race.
Children are also welcome to participate with 1km to 3km courses designed just for them.
In addition to the man-made obstacles incorporated throughout the races, Bright will be a perfect setting for the OCR event with courses plotted up hills and rocky terrain, across the Ovens River, through open pad-
docks and even some sections of forest.
“I fell in love with Bright a er I got back from organizing the race in Fiji last year,” Spartan race coordinator, Armando Pianese said.
“I want to reconnect with the community big time and bring the brand back to the area and I really want to have a successful race in Bright, so we get to come back again in 2026.
“It’s just about having fun: sometimes people get dressed up and even when they’re up to their knees in mud, or crossing the river, it’s just a fun experience for everyone.”
With a background in personal training and soccer coaching, Mr Pianese tells his students racing is very good for mental health, not just physical health.
“We thought only the ‘elite’ sports
BRIC-A-BRAC BAZAAR TO SHUT
By PHOEBE MORGAN
MYRTLEFORD’S Star Bazaar
variety store will join the other half-dozen empty storefronts in town as 19 years of trading comes to a close.
Star Bazaar owner, Mike Molyneux said the store had remained open for as long as possible, but with their current lease expiring, it’s clear they now have to close their doors.
“We’ve been in Myrtleford for 19 years and we’ve been here at this location for 16 years,” he said.
“I put it down to the overall economy, especially here in Victoria.
“Rising interest rates have led to people not spending as much money as they used tod.
“It seems like Myrtleford itself has changed: the western roundabout in town used to have very little activity, but now there’s so much more happening in that area.
enthusiasts would be interested in participating in Spartan races, but good health has become a priority with the majority of people now,” Mr Pianese said.
“Our participants don’t crack under pressure when they face adversity and they don’t stop competing.
“It’s a big community; all the racers are there to push you up and help you nish because there are no opponents; everyone is a Spartan.
“The best part of the weekend is a er the last race, when everyone nishes we celebrate with a festival, which is super fun.”
Mr Pianese said such community events bring huge bene ts to the host region.
“We cannot survive without local community support and the volunteers are amazing,” he said.
“We try to find the balance between running the business, making Spartan successful, while also giving everyone a great experience.
“In this way, we’ve been able to work with local sponsors and collaborate with local businesses and council to provide a great experience for all the competitors and supporters.
“This year, one of our sponsors is Bright Brewery,” Mr Pianese said.
“At the nish line, the competitors will receive a beer and a t-shirt and some other goodies.
“This year is the last o cial year for Bright, we’ll then sit down with council to plan future events.”
For more information and to book your tickets, visit: https://au.spartan. com/en/races/bright

OBSTACLE ODYSSEY: Spartan event organiser, Armando Pianese said the courses are a great mental and physical challenge.

“The roundabout has become more of a focal point: as a result there’s less foot tra c down this end of town.
“We’ve been packing things away all last week.
“We’ll just keep going until it’s empty: we’ll dismantle
all the ttings and move everything out.
“The remaining stock will be divided between the two other variety stores: Mike’s
“Some items will all be sent to
and
might
housing

When asked what the next step is, Mr Molyneux said he would be able to focus more his other two stores in Bright and Beechworth.
Council’s outdoor team working hard to repair storm damage
THE recent storm brought significant damage across the Alpine Shire, with many trees and branches falling across roads, parks, and public spaces.
While council’s outdoors team has been working tirelessly to respond to the influx of requests for assistance and ensure our community remains safe, the large volume of storm-related cleanup work means there may be delays in responding to non-urgent
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, thanked the community for their patience.
“Our outdoors crew is doing an incredible job tackling the aftermath of last week’s storm,” she said.
“Their priority is addressing urgent safety issues, and we appreciate your understanding as they work through the large number of tasks as quickly as possible.
“Thank you for your patience as we continue to recover from the storm and work to keep our community safe and beautiful.”
If you’ve submitted a request, rest assured it has been logged, and the team will get to it as soon as they can.
For urgent safety concerns, please contact Council on (03) 5755 0555 or email info@ alpineshire.vic.gov.au.



Roland Kukainis
How long have you lived in the area?

All my life. I was born here, schooled here and now work here. What do you like about living here?
I like the surrounding bushlands and being in the outdoors.
Would you like to see any changes or additions?
Yes, a boat ramp at the Pondage would be good and the ramp would definitely encourage more people to use the facility.
What do you do for a living and what are your hobbies and interests?
I work for Farm to Fork butchery in Mount Beauty; it’s a great place to work with a happy team. I like to spend time four-wheel driving, walking the dogs and spending time with my girlfriend, Ash Ryder.
Where would you take visitors to showcase the area?
To the Tawonga Caravan Park, it has really good surrounds and facilities. And a walk along the main strip in Mount Beauty, where there is plenty to see and do.


Robbie, Rachel, Edie and Lucy Fallon
Where do you live?
We live in Sandringham in Melbourne.
How often do you visit the area?
We visit every year and we always stay in Wandiligong.
What do you do for a living?
Robbie: I work in finance.
Rachel: I’m a teacher.
Lucy: I start year 10 soon.
Edie: I’m starting year 7.
What are your hobbies and interests?
R&R: We like bike-riding, both at home and while we’re here. We also play golf.
L&E: We play footy and netball.
What do you think makes the area unique?
Rachel: We like visiting all the local places: the Harrietville Dredge Hole for swimming, all the bike trails, Falls Creek for the walking trails. We try to do it all.
Lucy: The river floats in the Ovens River are the best.
Robbie: The apple cider from

Raymond Bird
Where do you live? I live in Porepunkah.
How long have you lived here?
I’ve lived in the area for probably 30 years now.
What do you do for a living?
I’m a pensioner, but I used to pick apples for 10 years, tobacco for 10 years and some grapes.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I like going camping and travelling, gold-panning, gardening and meditation.
Nightingales Orchard in Wandi.
Edie: The poke bowls in Bright are delicious.
What would you change about the area?
Robbie: The locals would have a better idea of what could be improved. My family are from the Myrtleford and Whorouly area.
Rachel: We tend to visit in the summertime and it’s pretty perfect, but there’s lots of events throughout the year we could investigate.
What do you think makes the area unique?
Myrtleford has everything you might need, but it’s still in the country. There’s lots of parks around where you can have a picnic and sit and relax. There are good rivers for fishing.
What would you change about the area?
An indoor swimming pool might be nice.







Carnevale DINNER DANCE







Gather your friends for an evening of magic, mystery, music and prizes when the famous Venetian festival comes to life at the Circolo Vicentini of Myrtleford’s first dinner dance since 2019!
When: Saturday, 22 February 2025
Where: Club Savoy, Myrtleford
Cost: $85 per person (pay at the door) 6yrs to 12yrs $12.00, Children up to 5 Free
Time: Doors open 6:30pm / Dinner served 7:00pm
Menu: Three courses, Tea & Coffee with Fritole
Dress: Embrace the carnevale magic! Come in fancy dress - add a touch of mystery with a mask.
RSVP: 14 February 2025. Bookings essential Group bookings welcome.
Contact: Mirella 0414 228 593
Lili 0409 521 617
Mara 0402 857 388
We look forward to cerebrating an enchanting evening of festa and fun with you, as we bring the Venetian Carnevale for one special night to the Club Savoy.







ONE of Australia media’s favourite meteorologists and weather presenters Jane Bunn will team up with TAFCO to bring hyper-local AIpowered weather forecasting in agriculture to farmers across North East Victoria.
The Jane’s Weather and TAFCO partnership integrates TAFCO’s trusted network of weather stations with ‘Jane’s Weather PRO’, providing farmers with the most accurate weather forecast in agriculture to support critical farm decisions.
Forecasting can now be received based on each of the individual TAFCO weather station sites (Myrtleford, Porepunkah, Whorouly, Beechworth, King Valley, Rosewhite and Coral Bank).
The network will be adding more locations in the future.
TAFCO is delighted to host a mini weather Expo, on site on Saturday, February 22 between midday and 3pm.
“We are putting on lunch, barista co ee or glass of wine and a few tunes,” said TAFCO general manager Rupert Shaw
“We even have parking sorted with our neighbours next door, Michelini Wines, making their vacant block available for carparking.
“Everyone is welcome to what should be a great afternoon out with the opportunity to network with other farmers and community members.”
The Alpine Outreach van will be onsite for inspection and o cially launched at 2pm to be able to walk through and see rst hand this amazing community asset which will be onsite at TAFCO during the expo.
“Hyper-local forecasts have always been the missing piece for farmers in unique

climates like North East Victoria,” Jane Bunn, founder of Jane’s Weather said.
“By working with TAFCO and their strong regional presence, we can ensure that more farmers get the most accurate weather data for their exact location, with our unique agricultural forecasts to help manage weather risks with con dence.”
For over 35 years, TAFCO has been a cornerstone of the agricultural community in North East Victoria, supporting over 800 farmers across the Ovens, Kiewa, and King Valleys.
Originally formed to assist tobacco growers, TAFCO has since expanded to serve broadacre, horticulture, viticulture, and livestock producers, providing rural supplies, agronomic services, and a trusted network of weather stations delivering vital localised weather forecasts in agriculture.
The Jane’s Weather and TAFCO partnership was sparked by a forward-thinking TAFCO community member who had signed up for Jane’s Weather PRO and inquired about integrating their local TAFCO weather
station into the Jane’s Weather AI Forecast. Located far from Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) stations, certain areas of North East Victoria have long struggled with inconsistent and unreliable forecasts due to gaps in weather observation data.
Now, through Jane’s Weather’s advanced AI forecasting, combined with real-time data from TAFCO’s weather station network, farmers can access hyper-local, accurate, and AI-driven forecasts to make smarter decisions around weather on farm.
By integrating TAFCO’s ex-
tensive weather station network into Jane’s Weather AI Forecast, farmers in the Ovens, Kiewa and King Valleys now have access to:
Accurate Ag-Speci c Weather Forecasts: Tailormade for agriculture forecasts to help farmers plan irrigation, protect crops and optimise spraying windows.
Custom Alerts & Noti cations: Realtime insights into wind, temperature and weather risks speci c for your operations for improved farm planning.
Weather Insights Tailored to Unique Microclimates: Delivering more accurate, more frequent localised weather forecasts in agriculture, even when o cial weather stations are lacking.
Seamless Weather Station Integration: Farmers can further enhance their forecasts by directly purchasing their own weather station.
Check out TAFCO’s weather station network at: https:// tafco.greenbrain.ag/ For more information about Jane’s Weather PRO, visit: https://janesweather.com/.






















Try something new in 2025
THE Mount Beauty and District Cricket Club hosts dinners on the last Thursday of each month from 5 .30pm.
This initiative is for families to come to the cricket club and enjoy dinner, with various food outlets offering a very reasonable priced delicious dinner, giving Mum a night off from cooking and washing dishes.
Last Thursday it was Red Head and the Chef, offering several choices, I had the crumbed chicken (yummy) only $12, there are vegetarian options as well.
Sitting in the cool clubrooms, with the bar open, a very pleasant way to spend a couple of hours.
On my last visit the Bombay Velvet restaurant was the host, a delicious curry and traditional Indian dessert for $20.
So everyone get over to your local cricket club enjoy one of these meal , give yourself a night off.

THE Mount Beauty Market is back for 2025, and guess what, it wasn’t raining, as it has done for the last three markets.
A favourite destination at the market is Hazel’s homemade cakes, scones, slices and more.
At aged 93 Hazel Riordan gets up early hours on a Saturday to start baking so it ensures her goods are fresh.
You have to be quick

because they sell out so quickly.
Hazel is an amazing example of the adage ‘keep busy‘ as you get older.
GOOD news regarding Alpine FM’s Brunch program, I will now be presenting on Tuesday mornings as well as Wednesdays, 9am ‘til noon. There will be a few new
regulars, segments like “Ask the Doctor“ with Dr Laura Zagorski, “il sonno Italiano” with chef Roi Rigoni, “Whats going on in Bright” with Jenny Packham, “Poetry” with Rollo Kiek, “Hooray for Hollywood” film reviews, “What are you Reading“ book reviews, and looking forward to hearing from Victorian Police to do a regular spot

including advice on home security and road rules.
The usual regulars will be back; Federal MP for Indi Dr Helen Haines, Alpine Shire
Mayor Sarah Nicholas, and the very popular “Talking Heads” with station manager Michael Ahearn.
Alpine FM offers an exceptional variety of programs, “ Beats and
Remember
Local Achievers in Mount Beauty celebrated for putting community first
By PHOEBE MORGAN
THIS year’s Australia Day celebrations in the Kiewa Valley were hosted at the Hydro Park in Mount Beauty on Sunday, January 26, with a breakfast served up by the local Lions Club.
From 8am, attendees gathered to celebrate the day o and enjoy the delicious food on o er while listening to the sounds of the Mount Beauty Community Band who played a great arrangement of Australian classics.
The o cial ceremony commenced at 9:30am, with master of ceremonies, Lions Club member,
Yvonne Sutton at the helm.
The Mount Beauty and District Scouts raised the Australian ag and led the attendees in the national anthem.
Councillors Noah Tanzen and Jean-Pierre Ronco presented the Alpine Shire Community Awards to the Kiewa Valley’s Local Achiever, John Gibbons and Local Young Achiever, Zoe Gray.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas acknowledged the other winners of this year’s community awards across the shire.
“Through John, we reect on our environment: what it used to be and what it can be again, with
consistent care, love and attention,” Mayor Nicholas said.
“I am inspired by Zoe’s determination, which has seen her combine her love for her community with real and targeted action.”
The president of the Lions Club of Upper Kiewa Valley, Rodney Hyde said the breakfast went really well and was very well attended.
“Australia Day was awesome,” Mr Hyde said.
“There was a great mixture of residents and visitors in town for their holidays.
“Thankfully, we still had enough food for everyone, but we must’ve served over
With a robust client base exceeding 500 across the region and Australia, BWM has firmly established itself as a trusted leader in financial advice. Adding to their success BWM has added two qualified financial planners, Boyd Preston and Marcus Hargreaves who have brought their own experience and qualifications to the team and are now servicing clients in the region.
Marcus, continuing the family legacy established by his now-retired father Terry who helped establish Belmores Wealth, has been dedicated to the financial planning industry since 2017.
Born and educated in Yarrawonga, Marcus started his financial management training at Belmores in 2017, then moved to Geelong and worked in a financial planning firm there before moving back to Yarrawonga with his young family and re-joining Belmores in December of 2023.
Marcus has excelled academically, earning a Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) with distinction. He’s also become an Accredited Aged Care Professional, having recently completed specialised training through Aged Care Steps.
Also born and educated in Yarrawonga, former Yarrawonga Sacred Heart College Dux, Boyd Preston has worked in the financial planning industry since 2021.
Boyd, whose father is local ANZ Bank Manager Hugh Preston, has completed a Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Planning/Accounting) with distinction.
Drawing on their comprehensive financial training and expertise, Marcus and Boyd offer clients specialised advice in key areas including:
200 people, with some of them coming back for seconds.
“The Lions Club has been running the breakfast for a long time now, approximately 40 years and we had over a dozen members lending a hand at this year’s event.
“We had activity bags for the kids and we would normally have face-painters, but we couldn’t arrange it this year,
“I’m told, back in the days of yore, they had whole-day events here,” Mr Hyde said.
“I’ll have a talk with the Lions members and see what we can do for future Australia Day events.”

Cashflow management, Retirement planning, Investments Superannuation and pension, Personal insurances, Aged care planning, Debt management, and Social security.
Both financial planners service clients all over the district including Yarrawonga. Boyd services clients in the Myrtleford and Bright offices and Marcus assists in the Numurkah office.
They both enjoy playing local sports, including football at Rennie and you might even have seen Boyd on a windsurfer on Lake Mulwala.
Belmores Wealth Management Director Ben Douglass said Marcus and Boyd have been fantastic inclusions to the Financial Planning division and the firm as a whole..
“As fully qualified financial planners along with their experience, they have been great additions to our team,” Mr Douglass said.
They have been working hard to achieve their qualifications and have been for some time assisting our many clients from young families to retirees throughout the district.”
Mr Douglass emphasised BWM’s commitment to fostering meaningful, personalised and confidential relationships with each client.
“At BWM our goal is to understand our client’s needs and support them with their financial journey by providing advice that is tailor-made for them,” he added.
To make an appointment with the team at Belmores Wealth Management phone 03 5744 1221 or email: BWM@belmores.

Modern methods to maintain cultural heritage management
THE Dhudoroa Waywurru Aboriginal Corporation (DWAC) is a shining example of how targeted e orts in skill development and education can empower Indigenous communities to manage and care for their lands.
The organisation’s initiatives focus on providing its members with the necessary accreditation and practical experience to care for their regions and contribute to sustainable land and water management.
The DWAC is dedicated to the well-being of its community and the preservation of the natural environment that holds cultural and spiritual signi cance.
A recent milestone in this journey has been the completion of specialized courses, including the most recent chainsaw and drone operation training in the Myrtleford area; equipping members with the skills necessary to enhance their role in cultural heritage management.
“The Dhuduroa Waywurru Aboriginal Corporation has become a key force in the northeast,” Cultural Heritage Consultancy Group spokesperson, Tekiri ‘Tee’ Whana, a Kamilleroi descendant, said.
“[It has] pioneered a new wave of eco-tourism while also creating valuable employment and training opportunities.”
The chainsaw training course provided participants with the technical expertise required to safely operate chainsaws while also focusing on environmental stewardship.
Mastering chainsaw operation not only facilitates better land care but also con-
LINK TO THE PAST: (from le ): Participants in the chainsaw and drone course


tributes to maintaining the health of the environment in accordance with traditional knowledge and modern conservation practices.
In recent years, drones have proven invaluable for surveying, monitoring vegetation, wildlife and even tracking changes in landscapes that may require attention.
The course held in December last year, taught participants how to use drones effectively for aerial surveys and monitoring and to capture high-quality data to allow members of the Dhudoroa community to gather critical informa-

tion about their land.
The ability to access remote areas from the air without disturbing the environment will signi cantly improve the monitoring of re risks, water sources, and the overall health of the ecosystem.
Both chainsaw and drone courses enhance the capacity of the Dhudoroa community to manage their land independently and sustainably.
“By continuing to o er high-quality, accredited training, the corporation is ensuring that Aboriginal communities are ready to face the challenges of land

management in the 21st century, while preserving their unique cultural connection to the land for generations to come,” Ms Whana said.
“This would not have been possible without the support of the local community and businesses.
“In particular, Dale Mitchell from Alpine Logging and Chris Warrior from Wiru Drone Solutions helped to facilitate participant attainment of the required skills.”
Mr Mitchell, a spokesman for the Forestry Forum in 2021 and provider of the forestry industry for well over 30 years, has continuously
supported the acquisition of forestry credentials and provided both the expertise and the property where necessary.
“We o en help the CHCG by providing some services, in this case; some forest areas to do their training in,” Mr Mitchell said.
“Other times it’s to provide advice for environment and forest-harvesting management.”
Chris Warrior, the owner of Wiru Drone Solutions, led a three-day drone training course, imparting essential skills for capturing both cultural heritage sites and aerial

imagery for everyday use. His expertise enabled the team to document some of the most remarkable discoveries in recent years.
With the right tools and knowledge, Aboriginal communities can continue to maintain and rejuvenate their regions according to cultural practices that have been passed down through generations.
The integration of modern techniques, such as drones, with traditional knowledge of the land creates a powerful synergy that bene ts both the community and the environment.
The Dhudoroa Waywurru Aboriginal Corporation has been working with The Cultural Heritage Consultancy Group to facilitate their courses and incorporate their business strategies and a liations where possible.
The CHC Group, as they are known, is an independent, Aboriginal-led consultancy providing assistance to both Aboriginal corporations and business corporations with active Reconciliation Action Plans.
The work being done by the Dhudoroa Waywurru Aboriginal Corporation is not only crucial for the immediate community but serves as a model for other Indigenous organizations seeking to empower their members.
Through initiatives like the chainsaw and drone courses, Dhudoroa is demonstrating how combining education, skill development, and traditional knowledge can lead to self-determined land and water management that bene ts both people and the planet.











School speed zones in effect as students return
MOTORISTS are reminded to be wary of school speed zones as students returned to the classroom last week a er the summer school holidays.
School speed zones are now in operation from 8am to 9.30am and from 2.30pm to 4pm on weekdays from Wednesday, 29 January until the end of term one on Friday, 4 March.
Motorists can expect an increase in road, pedestrian and bicycle tra c around schools, and near bus and tram stops, at drop-o and pick-up times.
Drivers have a responsibility
to be especially cautious when travelling near schools, as younger children don’t have the same awareness of road safety as adults do and their behaviour may be unpredictable near the roads.
School speed zones across the state operate in line with the Victorian government school calendar; some permanently, while others operate from 8am to 9.30am, and from 2.30pm to 4pm on weekdays.
School speed zones are designed to keep pedestrians safe by lowering the speed limit at peak times when children are
travelling to and from school.
Regardless of whether a school is open or closed, or has a student-free day, all signposted speed reductions will still apply.
The Department of Transport and Planning thanks motorists and passengers for their patience while these important works take place.
Real-time tra c conditions are available at tra c.transport.vic. gov.au.
The latest public transport information and network status is available at ptv.vic.gov.au or in the PTV mobile app.

MIND THE SPEED LIMIT: With children going back to school across the country, motorists are reminded to stay vigilant while passing school campuses.
Boating and baseball clubs receive Growing Regions funding
TWO North East community organisations will share $1.3 million in federal funding under the Growing Regions program.
Some $502,000 will go to Porepunkah Baseball Club for a new clubhouse and Eildon Boat Club is in line to receive $814,700 to develop its Maritime Community Hub.
Indi MP Helen Haines said Porepunkah Baseball Club has big plans for a new clubhouse that can double as a community refuge in times of disaster.
“This federal funding will mean that the long-awaited clubhouse can be built together with lighting across the grounds,” she said.
“This is a big boost to sporting facilities in the Alpine area.”
The Eildon Boat Club Maritime and Community Hub will deliver a new multi-purpose facility at the popular tourist spot.
WITH temperatures set to soar over the weekend and into next week, Alpine Shire Council is providing extra opportunities for residents and visitors to stay cool and safe.
Make a splash:
Outdoor swimming pools in Mount Beauty and Myrtleford are open every day, offering a great way to beat the heat.
In Bright, families can enjoy the free splashpark, providing a fun and refreshing escape from the high temperatures.
Extended library hours: Libraries offer airconditioned spaces, comfortable seating, and plenty of books to enjoy while escaping the heat.
across Indi as well.
“I have been pushing the government to increase the funding for regional Australia - the need is far greater than the overall funding pool that is provided by this Labor government.
“I’ve said before that competitive grant programs like the Growing Regions Fund and regional Precincts and Partnerships are heavily subscribed and demonstrate how much more investment we need in regional Australia.
“Projects o en require councils or community groups to stump up with a cocontribution of 50 per cent, which can hold back good projects.
To support the community during the hot weather, library opening hours have been extended:
Bright and Myrtleford libraries will be open until 7pm on Monday and Tuesday. Mount Beauty Library will be open until 7pm on Tuesday.
Stay cool at Myrtleford RSL: Myrtleford RSL Hall will be open as a cooling space from 12pm to 6pm on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. The hall will provide air conditioning, cool water, and power outlets for charging devices.
Council thanks the Myrtleford RSL for their support in offering this space.
“This investment will not only provide a great venue for community and volunteer groups to use, but will support emergency training, education and local employment,” Dr Haines said.
economy and provide facilities the community needs.”

“I was in Eildon very recently and know the shared and strong desire to develop infrastructure that will support tourism, help their local
Dr Haines welcomed the funding in this latest round, but said more investment was needed for regional development and it needs to be easier for councils and community groups to apply.
“Eight projects in Victoria

shared in $25 million funding in this latest round, with two of those projects here in Indi,” she said.
“I’m really pleased for the local communities that can progress their projects with this funding, but I acknowledge there will be many organisations disappointed
“Regional councils have smaller rate bases than city councils and have to do more with less.
“Both major parties need to up their o er to regional Australians with greater investment in regional grant programs coming into the next election.”








Visitor Information Centres available:
For those out and about, Visitor Information Centres in the Alpine Shire offer airconditioned spaces where people can take a break from the heat, learn more about the region, and in Mount Beauty, even visit the museum.
Council encourages everyone to stay hydrated, avoid excessive outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, and check in on vulnerable family members and neighbours. Don’t forget to keep pets cool with plenty of shade and fresh water.
For more heat health tips, visit: https://go.vic.gov. au/3YCzqQS.

4 2 4
For Sale $1,360,000
Community & Business Directory Alpine
Your local Directory in print and online
The 2025 Alpine Business and Community Directory is currently being compiled and will again be published as a hard copy edition, backed up online with a digital edition at northeastdirectory.com.au
Key Benefits Include:
> Over 3,000 copies distributed to residence and businesses across the Alpine Shire.
> Online directory is accessible via mobile phones, tablets and computers giving you exposure across North East Victoria and beyond.
> 12 month shelf life in print and online.
> Provides businesses with effective, low cost advertising in print and online.
> Easy to follow A4 size with quality full colour gloss reproduction throughout.
> Professionally designed advertisements that work for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Outstanding value advertising options designed to suit any budget are now available.

In 2025 we will no longer be o ering free listings for businesses that don’t advertise. To make sure your business is featured simply purchase a line listing (see sample on page 3) for only $39 (inc GST). All advertisers will automatically receive a free line listing. New in 2025

ADVERTISING BOOKING DEADLINE: Friday, February 28, 2025
ADVERTISING COPY DEADLINE: Thursday, March 7, 2025





















Please refer to pricing and sizing options enclosed. Prices are inclusive of GST, full colour and use of our in-house graphic design services. Secure an advertising space today to ensure that your business is the one Alpine residents turn to in 2025. proudly brought to you by:



Take a ticket to ride first-class

■ PREMIUM PEOPLE MOVER: Hyundai people mover o ers a first-class travel experience.

By Derek Ogden, MARQUE MOTORING
IT’S the ‘pointy end of the plane’ attractions of the Palisade that are hard to resist.
With a three-metre wheelbase the cabin space is more than adequate, then there are premium design finishes, plus the versatility of seven or eight seats.
The result is a first-class travel experience.
Even the Hyundai people mover’s entry-level model boasts the su x ‘Elite’.
For that the MY24 Palisade gains extra standard features in the form of a heated steering wheel and an eight-way power adjustable passenger seat.
Passenger mood is enhanced with a quality headlining and pillar trims, wood-look interior trim inserts, deluxe alloy scu plates, and a cargo area carpet mat.
Other gains include soundinsulating acoustic laminated front door glass, in addition to the standard acoustic windshield.
Moving up the range, a new model, the Calligraphy, replaces the Highlander, with the Calligraphy Black Ink topping out the new order.
Elite and Calligraphy continue to be o ered with 3.8 GDi petrol two-wheel-drive or 2.2 CRDi diesel all-wheel drive powertrains.
All are available with an eight-speed automatic transmission and two-wheel and four-wheel drive.
There are two powertrains on o er in the 2024 Hyundai Palisade – a 3.8-litre naturallyaspirated V6 petrol engine
and the 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel in the test vehicle.
Both are mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the turbo-diesel sending its power to all four wheels via Hyundai’s active on-demand HTrac AWD system.
The petrol Palisade is twowheel drive only.
Prices start at $66,800 for the Elite 2WD and top out at $89,900 for the Black Ink diesel AWD.
The seven-seat (2-2-3 configuration) is covered by seven airbags, including a front centre airbag, leatherappointed seats and steering wheel and 12.3-inch HD multimedia touchscreen display. Twenty-inch alloy wheels are backed up by a full-size spare.
Every Palisade is covered by a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and roadside assist is complimentary for the first 12 months, renewed annually (for the life of the vehicle) with services at an authorised Hyundai dealer.
STYLING
The bold character of the front is set o by vertically connected dusk-sensing LED headlights framing the grille. Energy-e cient LED daytime running lights are close at hand, while at the rear a Euro-design full-width highmounted stop light creates a commanding accompaniment to braking.
The 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels make a bold statement, adding to the robustness of the Palisade.

AT A GLANCE
MODEL LINE-UP:
Palisade Elite V6 FWD: $66,800
Palisade Elite Diesel AWD: $70,800
Palisade Calligraphy V6 FWD: $75,900
Palisade Calligraphy Black Ink V6 FWD: $76,900
Palisade Calligraphy Diesel AWD: $79,900
Palisade Calligraphy Black Ink Diesel AWD: $80,900
Note: These prices do not include government of dealer delivery charges. Contact your Hyundai local dealer for driveaway prices.
power of 147kW at 3800rpm and maximum torque of 440Nm between 1750 and 2750rpm.
Available with both engines, the extra gears not only help fuel economy by improving e ciency but also increase the smoothness of delivery.
SAFETY
The Palisade runs a fivestar ANCAP safety rating on 2022 testing.
SmartSense delivers blind-spot collision avoidance-assist, blind-spot view monitor, lane keeping assist with Line/Road-Edge, lane following assist, rear crosstra c collision-avoidance assist, rear occupant alert, advanced safe exit assist, plus surround view monitor with 3-D view.
Smart alters vehicle characteristics such as engine output, transmission settings and braking to suit driving style.
The other modes react as billed.
As with most vehicles, when it comes to fuel economy weight is the enemy, which is no more relevant with the hefty two tonne-plus Palisade.
Hyundai claims combined urban/highway consumption of 7.3 litres per 100 kilometres.
Over a week of driving, mostly in Smart drive mode, the Palisade diesel coughed up consumption at close to 12 litres per 100 kilometres around the city and 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the open road.
Towing capacity is 2200kg with braked trailer, 750kg with unbraked.
INTERIOR
The Palisade has much to make a journey more of an event, from heating and air ventilation in the first two rows of seats to extra space in the second and third rows.
Panoramic glass that wraps around from C- to C-pillar underscores the spaciousness of the back row, while providing better visibility and ample headroom for back seat occupants.
Heating and air-ventilated cooling are integrated into
Loading and unloading the boot, which can be a handful, is eased by an automatically raised tailgate, with adjustable opening speeds, by standing behind the vehicle for three seconds with the Smart Key.
the front and second-row seats, while the front row features dual-zone climate control with auto defog (exclusive to Calligraphy variants), and the second row also has separate climate controls for rear passengers to set their preferred temperatures.
ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
The powerful petrol and diesel engine options are designed to deliver refined and dependable power for uncompromising performance under all driving conditions.
The 3.8-litre GDi V6 petrol engine produces 217kW of power at 6000rpm, plus maximum torque: of 355Nm at 5200rpm.
The 2.2-litre CDi diesel (on test) rustles up maximum
The Bluelink app also includes Automatic Collision Notification – an emergency SOS call service which can be activated in the event of a severe collision.
At the press of a button a call facility can dispatch emergency responders if and when required.
DRIVING
Sweet as, is the best way to describe the Pallisade’s on-road manners.
Despite its bulk, refined is the way with the powertrain and well-sorted ride and handling.
The large dimensions do get in the way when parking, but the electronic aids help do the job.
There are four on-road drive modes – Comfort, Eco, Sport and Smart.
A super sharp view of the road behind can be served up by a digital centre mirror. The mirror is linked to a rearview camera that delivers an obstruction-free picture of the surroundings behind.
It can be switched to a conventional mirror.
Tra c sign recognition is not all that flash, with inaccuracies often observed, while the beep when the speed limit changes only make things worse.
SUMMARY
‘Palisade’ has recently shown up sadly with the wild fires in Pacific Palisades, California. Hyundai shows the other side of the coin with its classy superior Palisade people mover.








Refined country living on 45 acres
THIS fantastic five-bedroom residence
located in Wangaratta’s South has undergone a full renovation creating a refined contemporary home.
Offering the perfect package to country lifestyle living; spacious family home, large shedding, sealed road access, swimming pool and well-established gardens whilst occupying fully fenced 45 acres of land with creek frontage.
With over 245m2 of living, you are greeted with 9ft ceilings, wide plank flooring and a tastefully light filled open plan kitchen, dining with separate living.
The kitchen is well appointed with induction Falcon cooking, 40mm stone benches and a butler’s pantry.
With a suite of five expansive bedrooms with built-in robes and study nooks, the spacious primary bedroom
provides an ensuite and walk-in robe.
Exceptionally well renovated bathrooms feature floor to ceiling tiles, double vanities and frameless glass walk in showers.
The decked outdoor area is ideal for entertaining, whilst overlooking the heated swimming pool (10m x 4m) through frameless glass balustrade and the stone feature wall.
A full ducted reverse cycle heating and cooling unit ensures the house maintains the perfect temperature year-round.
Contributing to the homes efficiency is the double-glazed windows along with the huge 52 panel solar system.
The shedding is complete with dual roller doors at the front and single roller at the rear, fully insulated and sufficient




space to store multiple vehicles, caravan and/or trailers (18m x 7m).
Entry to the property is via electric gate, treed driveway, established gardens and trees surrounding the property provide both beauty and shade and can be admired from many aspects in the home.
One hundred thousand litres of water via three tanks supply the house whilst the bore maintains the gardens and lawns around the home through an automated sprinkler system.
Paddocks are divided up conveniently into eight with reticulated water from the bore onsite.
Other notable features include full electric fencing, stables (22m x 15m) and yards along with hay shed.
This is an amazing opportunity for an-

looking for a versatile lifestyle property within minutes’ drive to Wangaratta CBD, easy access to the Hume freeway, schools and early childcare providers.





Built in 2001, this red brick home is in immaculate condition inside and out.

4 2 4
Agent | Harcourts Wangaratta
Phone | (03) 5722 9444

Internally the home comprises of four bedrooms, two bathrooms and large open plan living area all with beautiful Murray pine timber floors.
Kitchen is fitted with electric cooktop, electric oven, dishwasher and portable island bench/breakfast bar.

Master bedroom is upstairs with ensuite, walk-in robe, toilet and split system heating and cooling.
Price | $995,000
Land | 5 Acres
Location | 349 Lyons Road, Tarrawingee

In addition to the upstairs space, master bedroom boasts tasteful double French doors leading to a private balcony with mountain views.
Three additional bedrooms are downstairs, all great size with BIRs and ceiling fans.
Main bathroom features freestanding bath, separate shower and separate toilet.
Heating and cooling throughout is covered with multiple split systems and Eurostyle wood heater.
ming pool, with exposed aggregate concreting, large decked area overlooking backyard, stoned entertaining space with wood fired pizza oven and much more.
Shedding is extensive with main workshop shed (8.8mx7.3m) plus man cave with studio, wood heater, toilet and shower.
Machinery shedding (12mx7m) fitted with concrete floor, light and power.
Large 56 solar panel system (12Kw) provides sustainable living along with large array of veggie patches.







Externally 349 Lyons Road provides most purchasers needs and wants in a lifestyle property.
There are manicured lawns with established matures trees, in-ground swim-
Water on the property is secured by 40,000L of rainwater for domestic use, 10,000L on the shed for garden usage and water bore for all garden and external usage.





https://nutrien.harcourts.net/au/o


















ed Information

2023 ISUZU MUX LSU 4X4, turbo diesel, good condition, 280,090kms, reg (1II4XI), $26,000 ONO. Ph 0498 118 997.

2009 TOYOTA LANDCRUISER, 4.5CC V8 turbo diesel, genuine, 282000kms, one owner, many extras, with roadworthy, rego XCM 077, $45,000. Phone John 0427 769 534.


WAITE, Patricia Lorraine “Pat”.
Mansfield Courier
Phone: (03) 5723 0101
email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au
Booking deadline:
12noon Monday prior to print.
The Chronicle
Phone: (03) 5723 0101
email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au
Booking deadline:
2pm business day prior to print.
The Euroa Gazette
Phone: (03) 5723 0101
email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au
Booking deadline:
3pm Monday prior to print.
North East Tourist News
Phone: (03) 5723 0100
email: sales@nemedia.com.au
Phone for quarterly booking deadline
North East Farmer
Phone: (03) 5723 0100
email: nefarmer@nemedia.com.au
Booking deadline: Second Friday of month
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SUBARU OUTBACK TOURING XT 2023 build bought 2024 condition excellent never been o -road travelled 8600kms. Top of the range extras include accessory explorer pack, hydro paint/leather interior including Cancer Council Windows, sunroof ,tow- bar. Price $51000. Phone Marg 0417218966.

2010 FG FALCON UTE, auto, 6 cylinder, LPG, low KMS 40300, 12 months rego, YFG 779. One owner, $13,500. Ph 0428 906 511.

QUINTREX
BayHunter runabout, 1992, 4.4 metre aluminium V-hull, with canopy and side window panels, trailer and 40HP Mercury engine, life jackets, reg to Sep 25, $12,500 ONO. Ph 0419 870 472.
FREE RANGE HENS
ISA Brown Pullets,






Of Myrtleford and Wangaratta, aged 87 years. Passed away peacefully on January 24, 2025. Dearly loved wife of Mervyn (dec). Much loved mother of Thomas, Mandy, Lee, Gary, Ralph and Darren. Loved mother-in-law of Cynthia, Colin, Lindsey, Angela, Sally and Jill. Cherished and adored Nanna and Grand-Nanna. Loved friend of Ron. Forever in our hearts.


WAITE
A funeral service to honour the life of Patrica will be held at North East Funerals, Bell Room, 184 Greta Road Wangaratta, on Thursday, February 6, 2025 commencing at 1.30pm, with light refreshments to follow. Service can be viewed via livestream at www.northeastfunerals.com.au



























Unlicensed water pumpers warned
GOULBURN-Murray Water (GMW) is warning people against illegally pumping water from storages and waterways following a spate of incidents in recent weeks.
As the weather has become warmer and drier, there have been several cases of people parking at boat ramps or besides waterways on public roads and pumping water into their trailer tanks.
GMW Water Delivery Services
General Manager Warren Blyth said people caught doing this would face legal action.
“The water stored in our lakes, dams and reservoirs belongs to entitlement holders,” he said.
“When people illegally take water from our storages and waterways, they are taking our customers’ water.
“Water is a valuable and limited resource. To ensure fairness in how it is used, we take a zerotolerance approach to any form of unauthorised take.”
People who are caught pumping water from a GMW storage or waterway without the appropriate authorisations can be prosecuted for water theft under the Water Act 1989.
Mr Blyth said those in need of water, but lacking entitlements could contact GMW to discuss their options.
“Our diversions inspectors can help people with any questions about how they can gain authorisation to take water,” he said.
“People in urgent need of water also have the option of using
emergency water supply points.”
There are about 300 emergency water supply points in Victoria.
These are bores and standpipes that people can draw water from for emergency stock and domestic or rural needs.
People can search for nearby emergency water supply points on the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action website: https://www.water. vic.gov.au/for-agriculture-andindustry/emergency-water-supplypoints
Those wanting to discuss their options for sourcing water can phone GMW on 1800 013 357.
People can use the same number to report any instances of water theft or send an email to compliance@gmwater.coam.au.
Unwrap the new year with soft plastics recycling program
COMMUNITY members
across the Alpine Shire are encouraged to participate in Halve Waste’s Local So Plastics Recycling Pilot and commit to a more sustainable future.
Together with Halve Waste, Cleanaway, and the Australian Food and Grocery Council, Alpine Shire Council is one of four councils participating in phase two of the successful soft
plastics recycling program.
Already, 980 people across the Alpine Shire have signed up to the program, which has been in place since 1 August 2024.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, congratulated community members who have signed up to this valuable initiative, which enables households in the Alpine Shire to dispose of their so plastics in a thoughtful and sustainable way.
“So plastics have historically been hard to recycle because the loose materials are either too dirty to recycle appropriately or they jam up equipment, so they inevitably become litter in our environment or end up in landll,” she said.
“Collecting so plastics in the orange bags allocated for this program means that these materials can be easily identi ed and sorted before




being treated to make recycled plastic products.”
So plastics can be recycled if they are clean, dry, and placed into the orange bags provided by Council.
Once bags are full, they can be tied closed and placed into kerbside yellow-lidded recycling bins.
The orange bags must be filled to ensure that the program works effectively, which can be deter-


mined by weight or size.
Filled bags should weigh approximately 1kg or be the size of an adult basketball that has been pumped up well.
Cr Nicholas encouraged those community members who have signed up to the program to pick up their bags, or, if they haven’t yet taken up the opportunity, to sign up and start recycling in the new year.
“This is an optional pro-
gram, but too valuable to let pass by,” she said.
“Once you have registered, you can pick up your orange bags from the Council o ce in Bright or Council libraries and Visitor Information Centres in Bright, Mount Beauty, and Myrtleford.”
Community members can register online by visiting https://halvewaste.com.au/ soft-plastics-recycling-trialsign-up/.
NOWOUT





















The ultimate guide for tourists and locals
















































OVENS VALLEY UNITED DEF BY BENALLA BUSHRANGERS
BENALLA BUSHRANGERS 1ST INNINGS
Brayden Stepien (c) lbw: Geeth Alwis 60
James Carboon c: C Thomason b: Geeth Alwis 28
Ross Cavill not out 73*
Charlie Bull b: Geeth Alwis 10
Jonty Priest b: Gregor Fraser 1
Lucas Ham b: Geeth Alwis 31
George Lithgow not out 2*
Conor Brodie did not bat
Cooper Binion did not bat
Gary Priest (vc) did not bat
Ladd did not bat
FOW: 1-93 Brayden Stepien, 2-111 James Carboon, 3-146 Charlie Bull, 4-149 Jonty Priest, 5-223 Lucas Ham. BOWLING: Gregor Fraser 8/1/26/1, James Neary 10/2/39/0, Conner Forde 4/0/26/0, Josh Harris 8/0/39/0, Geeth Alwis 23/8/40/4, Glenn White 8/2/23/0, Cooper Thomason 6/0/18/0.
OVENS VALLEY UNITED 1ST INNINGS
Gregor Fraser b: Conor Brodie 12
Seamus Phillips lbw: Conor Brodie 6
Conner Forde c: Jonty Priest b: James Ladd 16
Geeth Alwis c: Cooper Binion b: James Ladd 80
Cooper Thomason c: Gary Priest b: Ross Cavill 23
Dylan Bursill (c) c: George Lithgow b: Conor Brodie 21
Noah White c: Brayden Stepien b: James Ladd 20
Nicholas Impink c: Brayden Stepien b: Ross Cavill 1
Kane Fitzpatrick c: Gary Priest b: Ross Cavill 0 Glenn White not out 1*
James Neary b: Ross Cavill 2
Extras 13
Total 10 / 195
Overs 67.3
FOW: 1-10 Seamus Phillips, 2-32 Gregor Fraser, 3-62 Conner Forde, 4-121 Cooper Thomason, 5-165 Geeth Alwis, 6-168 Dylan Bursill, 7-183 Nicholas Impink, 8-192
Kane Fitzpatrick, 9-192 Noah White, 10-195 James Neary.
BOWLING: Conor Brodie 15/4/31/3, Charlie Bull 6/0/12/0, James Ladd 16/2/60/3, Brayden Stepien 10/0/32/0, Ross Cavill 13.3/5/26/4, Cooper Binion 7/1/24/0.
BEECHWORTH WANDERERS DEF CITY COLTS
CITY COLTS 1ST INNINGS
Mitchell Giggins c: Austen Fendyk b: Jack Ryan 59
Tyler Nanson c: Will Prebble b: Timothy Cogger 10
Aaron Thrum c: Brenton Surrey b: Timothy Cogger 22
Joshua Newton b: Timothy Cogger 29
William Petersen b: Kayde Surrey 0
Josh Nanson lbw: Matthew Ryan 19
Jed Marek b: Kayde Surrey 0
Thomas Moore b: Matthew Ryan 7
Archie Crispin b: Matthew Ryan 0
Mitchell Purcell c: Austen Fendyk b: Jack Ryan 11
Matthew Lister not out 0*
Extras 8 Total 10 / 165
FOW: 1-32 Tyler Nanson, 2-81 Mitchell Giggins, 3-122 Aaron Thrum, 4-125 Joshua Newton, 5-127 William Petersen, 6-129
Jed Marek, 7-144 Thomas Moore, 8-144 Archie Crispin, 9-151
Josh Nanson, 10-165 Mitchell Purcell. BOWLING: Matthew Ryan 13/2/51/3, Timothy Cogger 12/4/25/3, Kayde Surrey 15/8/18/2, Jack Ryan 8.2/1/27/2, Brenton Surrey 5/0/18/0, Will Prebble 4/0/22/0.
BEECHWORTH WANDERERS 1ST INNINGS
Clancy Ellett run out: Archie Crispin, Jed Marek 105
Jackson Cull b: Archie Crispin 59
Austen Fendyk b: Jed Marek 26
Kayde Surrey lbw: Matthew Lister 49
Jack Ryan c&b: Matthew Lister 11
Will Prebble c: William Petersen b: Matthew Lister 14
Matthew Ryan c&b: Matthew Lister 2
Tristan Lenaz b: Matthew Lister 8
Hunter North c: William Petersen b: Matthew Lister 0
Timothy Cogger not out 2*
Richard Worcester not out 8*
Extras 11
Total 9 / 295
Overs 89
FOW: 1-168 Clancy Ellett, 2-169 Jackson Cull, 3-220 Austen Fendyk, 4-236 Jack Ryan, 5-266 Will Prebble, 6-275 Kayde Surrey, 7-276 Matthew Ryan, 8-282 H North, 9-285 Tristan Lenaz. BOWLING: J Nanson 15/2/34/0, J Marek 21/3/65/1, T Nanson 2/2/0/0, M Lister 18/5/46/6, C Ormond 9/0/37/0, A Crispin 11/1/45/1, M Purcell 4/0/25/0, M Giggins 9/1/35/0.
ROVERS UNITED BRUCK DEF BY YARRAWONGA MULWALA
YARRAWONGA MULWALA 1ST INNINGS
Reid Clarke c: Jeremy Wilson b: Daniel Jones 10
Ben Welsh b: Jacob Schonafinger 3
Angus McMillan (vc) c: & b: Jacob Schonafinger 0
Brock McCabe c: Lucky Shantha b: J Schonafinger 3
Van Kreeck b: Jacob Schonafinger 10
Kyle Archibald (c) c: J Schonafinger b: J Wilson 26
Adam Dodd c: J Schonafinger b: J Wilson 6
Xavier Mitchell c: Matthew Whitten b: J Wilson 0
Matt McCabe b: Jeremy Wilson 0
Oliver Cope lbw: Paddy McNamara 0
Angus Heslin not out 0*
Extras 15
Total 10 / 70
Overs 31.3
FOW: 1-13 Ben Welsh, 2-13 Angus McMillan, 3-15 Brock McCabe, 4-31 Van Kreeck, 5-32 Reid Clarke, 6-54 adam dodd, 7-54 Xavier Mitchell, 8-63 Matt McCabe, 9-64 Oliver
Cope, 10-70 Kyle Archibald. BOWLING: Paddy McNamara 11/3/16/1, Jacob Schonafinger 11/3/12/4, Daniel Jones 5/1/11/1, Jeremy Wilson 4.3/0/20/4.
ROVERS UNITED BRUCK 1ST INNINGS
Luke Whitten c: Brock McCabe b: Angus Heslin 7
Charith Perera c & b: Angus Heslin 0
Ryan Collier c: Ben Welsh b: Angus Heslin 4
Paddy McNamara (c) c: Ben Welsh b: Van Kreeck 10
Reid McNamara c: Ben Welsh b: Angus McMillan 8
Matthew Whitten c: Reid Clarke b: Angus McMillan 4
Jeremy Wilson (c) c: Angus McMillan b: Angus Heslin 0
Lucky Shantha c: Reid Clarke b: Angus Heslin 0
Jacob Schonafinger not out 13*
Daniel Jones b: Angus Heslin 2
Charlie Lugg c: Reid Clarke b: Van Kreeck 2
Extras 8
Total 10 / 58
Overs 51.4
FOW: 1-0 Charith Perera, 2-6 Ryan Collier, 3-20 Luke Whitten, 4-31 Paddy McNamara, 5-37 Reid McNamara, 6-40
Jeremy Wilson, 7-40 Lakpriya shantha Gangabadawatta Arachchilage, 8-40 Matthew Whitten, 9-47 Daniel Jones, 1058 Charlie Lugg. BOWLING: Angus Heslin 18/9/26/6, Angus McMillan 15/9/12/2, Aneeque Azam 5/3/6/0, Van Kreeck 7.4/4/11/2, Matt McCabe 6/5/1/0.
































YARRAWONGA MULWALA 2ND INNINGS















Reid Clarke c: Luke Whitten b: Jacob Schonafinger 7
Ben Welsh c: Paddy McNamara b: Daniel Jones 15
Brock McCabe lbw: Daniel Jones 6
Van Kreeck lbw: Paddy McNamara 9
Angus McMillan (vc) c: J Schonafinger b: Daniel Jones 2 adam dodd lbw: Jeremy Wilson 17
Kyle Archibald (c) c: Jeremy Wilson b: Daniel Jones 8
Angus Heslin c: Jeremy Wilson b: Daniel Jones 0
Oliver Cope not out 2*
Matt McCabe c: Jeremy Wilson b: Daniel Jones 4
Xavier Mitchell b: Jacob Schonafinger 5
Extras 18
Total 10 / 93
Overs 46.2
FOW: 1-11 Reid Clarke, 2-30 Brock McCabe, 3-37 Ben Welsh, 4-43 Angus McMillan, 5-56 Van Kreeck, 6-77 Kyle Archibald, 7-77 Angus Heslin, 8-77 adam dodd, 9-82 Matt McCabe, 10-93 Xavier Mitchell. BOWLING: Paddy McNamara 14/4/29/1, Jacob Schonafinger 8.2/3/14/2, Daniel Jones 10/2/24/6, Charlie Lugg 3/1/4/0, Jeremy Wilson 11/5/10/1.
ROVERS UNITED BRUCK 2ND INNINGS
Charith Perera c: Brock McCabe b: Angus McMillan 18 Lucky Shantha c & b: Angus Heslin 6 Jacob Schonafinger not out 23*
Jeremy Wilson (c) c: & b: Angus Heslin 0 Paddy McNamara (c) not out 24*
Extras 2 Total 3 / 73
Overs 10 FOW 1-21 Charith Perera, 2-25 Lakpriya shantha Gangabadawatta Arachchilage, 3-25 Jeremy Wilson. BOWLING: Angus Heslin 3/0/22/2, Angus McMillan 5/0/35/1, Van Kreeck 2/0/15/0.
A RESERVE: City Colts 10/73 Hugh Spring 28 Sameera Witharana 4/21 def by Benalla Bushrangers 10/184 Vishal Sharma 125 Mitchel Howe 5/18. Yarrawonga Mulwala 7/225 def Delatite 10/126. Wangaratta Magpies 7/213 Daniel Larkings 83 Benjamin McMasters 2/25 def Ovens Valley United 10/147 Nathan Cullen 38 Chris Clement 5/21. B GRADE: Milawa 4/192 Jason Papworth 59 Fill-in 2/34 def City Colts 5/186 Ross Moore 93* Ryan Brereton 2/31. Benalla Bushrangers 4/105 Leigh Pollard 30 Harry Craddock 2/16 def Merton 10/104 Luke Berriman 23 Leigh Pollard 4/14. Rovers United Bruck 6/147 James Campbell 45 Hunter Fraunfelder 3/23 def Yarrawonga Mulwala 10/122 Alexander Kealy 41 Jeremy Ackroyd 3/37. Beechworth Wanderers 10/113 Henry Scalzo 24 Jakeb meyer 4/18 def by Rutherglen United 5/114 Jakeb Meyer 48* Brandon Fitzpatrick 3/23. Greta 7/125 Michael barnard 62* Louis Sanderson 4/19 def Ovens Valley United 10/50 Fill-in 11 David Allen 2/4. C GRADE: Rutherglen United def by Yarrawonga Mulwala (forfeit). Gapsted 9/170 Nathan Blyth 45 Brad Watt 4/29 def by Greta Blue 6/227 Thomas Grounds 77. Greta White 10/86 Austin Morris 15 Mark Osborne 2/5 def by Benalla Bushrangers 2/87 Sam Hazell 36 Hamish Tanner 1/1. Benalla Bushrangers Red 9/123 Mark Botten 34 Dean Chambeyron 4/44 def by Beechworth Wanderers Stanley 4/189 Wiremu Andrews 66 Bryce Cooney 1/28. UNDER 16: Beechworth Wanderers 8/205 def by Rovers United Bruck 6/233. Ovens Valley United 10/196 def Benalla Bushrangers 8/134. Delatite 3/111 def by City Colts 7/200. UNDER 14: Ovens Valley United 10/112 def Beechworth Wanderers 10/72. Yarrawonga Mulwala Rams 7/134 def Rovers United Bruck Gold 10/101. Benalla Bushrangers Red 5/182 def Wangaratta Magpies Black 9/58. Wangaratta Magpies White 9/172 defe Rutherglen United 8/75. Benalla Bushrangers Blue 8/170 def by City Colts 6/156. Greta White 10/160 def Greta Blue 7/132. UNDER 12 GOLD: Yarrawonga Mulwala Lakers 5/105 def by Yarrawonga Mulwala Bulls 4/117. Wangaratta Magpies Black 8/48 def by Benalla Bushrangers Blue 4/145. Yarrawonga Mulwala Rams 6/105 def Delatite Gold 8/51. Benalla Bushrangers Red 6/120 def Delatite Blue 6/73. Benalla Bushrangers Green 8/71 def by Wangaratta Magpies White 8/73. UNDER 12 BLUE: City Colts White 5/106 def Rovers United Bruck Green 4/84. Greta 6/57 def by Ovens Valley United Orange 1/98. Rovers United Bruck 8/96 tied City Colts Blue 4/96. Beechworth Wanderers 3/116 def Rutherglen United 8/36.



Scorching conditions for golf
THE entire week was a tough one for Alpine golfers, with hot weather across the region.
MYRTLEFORD GOLF CLUB
SUNDAY, February 2
John & Sue Wilson Teams of 2
Ambrose
Sponsored By Savoy Club
Myrtleford & Matthews Cleaning
Men’s Gross Winners: Aaron Jose and Spider Hancock 70 c/b. Men’s Gross Runners Up: Jim Bowden and Robert Toal 70.
Men’s Handicap Winners: Brad Carroll and Jim Martin (5.25) 60.75. Men’s Handicap Runners Up: Peter Stewart and Paul Tanner (7.25) 63.75.
Mixed Handicap Winners: Loretta and Ian Wales (15) 63. Mixed Handicap Runners Up: Valerie Ellis and Andrew Senkic (7.25) 64.75.
Ladies Handicap Winners: Kerry Newton and Sandra Piazza (8.75) 62.75. Ladies Handicap Runners Up: Enolagaye Jensen and Stacey Emms (9) 72.

9 Hole Winner: Helen Mummery (32) 20 pts. 9 Hole Runner Up: Pat Mc Pherson (47) 14 pts c/b.
Ball Winners: Margaret Curtis (35 pts), Judy Bynon (31 pts) c/b, Jan Harper (32pts) 31 c/b.

Ball Winners - Men’s: M Arden and P Green 63.75, E and W Bailey 64.75, J and G Mitchell 65, R Wheeler and C Shewell 65.25, D Rossato and A McKerral 65.75, G Erskine and S Harvey 66, W Kelty and N Blewett 66.25, B McMasters and S Piazza 66.25, A Duck and D Johnson 66.5. Mixed: L Carmody and W Hibberson 66, L Dwyer and M Currie 68.75, C and K Bailey 69.5. Ladies: L Velicki and T Cook 72.25.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Leanne Carmody and Robert Toal, 8th: Kerry Newton and Paul Green, 14th: Elizabeth McCrystal and Steven Harvey, 16th: Kerry Newton and Peter Stewart.
Saturday, February 1
John Wilson Drummond Golf
Monthly Medal Stableford AMCR 71
A Grade Winner: Samuel Bakes (+1) 36 pts. A Grade Runner Up: Jason Gilbert (12) 35 pts.
B Grade Winners and Medal: Andrew McKerral (17) 38 pts. B Grade Runners Up: Pieter Veldman (23) 37 pts.
Super 6 Winner: Andrew McKerral (17) 15 pts. Super 6 Runner Up: Colin Walker (27) 13 pts c/b.
Ball Winners: R Wheeler 35, T Chapman 35, W Rowney 34, P Evans 34, C Shewell 34.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Craig Piazza, 4th 2nd Shot: Brad Carroll, 14th: Warren Rowney, 16th: Ian Wales.
Matthews Cleaning
Encouragement Award: John Costello 20 pts.
Raffle Winner: Colin Walker.
Thursday, January 30
Ruby Cafe Stableford AMCR 74
A Grade Winner: Barb Welch (17) 40pts. A Grade Runner Up: Faye McLees (28) 40pts.
9 Hole Winner: Pat McPherson (53) 21pts. 9 Hole Runner Up: Robyn Ternes (24) 17pts.
Ball Winners: Sandra Piazza, Karen Waterson, Suzette Kelly.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Barb Welch, 2nd/4th: Angela O’Shaughnessy, 8th: Janice David, 14th: Karen Waterson, 16th: Angela O’Shaughnessy.
Wednesday, January 29
Ruby’s Cafe Stableford AMCR 71
A Grade Winner: David Clark (14)
36 pts. A Grade Runner Up: Jon Harrington (17) 35 pts c/b.
Ball Winners: A Rockliff 35, P Stewart 35, P Veldman 34, J Martin
33.
Foodworks NTPs - 4th 2nd Shot: David Clark, 8th: Geoffery Sims, 14th: David Clark.
Tuesday, January 28
Ruby Cafe Stableford AMCR 74
A Grade Winner: Faye McLees (28) 40pts. A Grade Runner Up: Victoria Sims (10) 39 pts.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Ann Hazeldine, 8th: Marg Curtis, 14th: Marg Curtis.
MOUNTY BEAUTY GOLF CLUB
A GROUP of 63 players turned out for the Mount Beauty Golf Club’s second Settlers Tavern Hole-in-One 4 Ball Ambrose on a glorious afternoon on Saturday, January 27.
Teams were sent off on a couple of extra tees to help have the field come in relatively close together.
The winning team came from Beechworth Golf Club and consisted of Tyson Carey, Dylan Pool, Jacob Howard and Jamie Dolny with 53.625 net holding off a local team of Peter Hertzog, Tristan Hall, Darren Flay, David Drew with their 55.75 net.
Next on the podium was a Falls Creek contingent of Laif Moegel, Heath Hudson, Sam Plunkett and Bruce Plant with 56.375 net.
Balls were also handed to another local team of Ross Rynehart, Leesa Bevan, Macca Deans and Wes Dowel for their 57.125 net.
NTP on the seventh went to the Club, along with the Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post Office, the ninth went to Shane Purss.
The 17th went to Mark Redmond with Tina Cook taking home a goodly sum of money on the 18th, only a couple of metres from the big prize.
The ladies played the front nine, sensibly earlier in the day, on Wednesday, January 29, which was won by Helen Whittaker with 21 points from Jooyon Kang-Redmond and Carol Bartholomew, both with 20 points.
NTP on the seventh, second shot, was Helen Whittaker.
On Saturday, February 1, the ladies initiated their Monthly Stroke event with the inaugural winner being Carol Bartholomew with a net 73 from Leesa Bevan with net 75.
As the name suggests, the ladies hope this will become a monthly event on the first Saturday of the month, similar to the men’s Monthly Medal.
The men played the front nine on Wednesday, January 29 in the heat which was won by Neil Tappe with 22 points from Ben Ritson with 21 points.
Balls were handed out to Don Mason (19 points), Michael Bartholomew and Macca Deans both with 18 points.
NTP on the seventh was Don Mason while Ross Rynehart was on the ninth.
Monthly Medal was the name of the game for the men on Saturday, February 1.
Battling with the heat on the day the best score belonged to Peter Johns with net 71 on a countback from Dave Etherton and Neil Tappe. Balls were given out to Ron Gallagher, Allan Retallick and Stephen Short for their net 72s.
NTP on the seventh was Dave Etherton, along with the Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post Office.
Etherton also took the ninth.
The 17th was Roger Church and David Drew took home the money on the 18th.
BRIGHT COUNTRY GOLF CLUB
MONDAY, January 27 was the all gender Veteran’s Stableford competition.
As the inimitable Noel Coward said in 1931, “Only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun” - this could have been the mantra for Monday’s Veteran’s golf competition.
With the forecast predicting a top temperature of over 40 degrees, 16 players teed off at 9am.
All did finish their rounds, although some were more fatigued than others.
Out of the 16, only two players played under their handicaps.
The winners were Kevin Reed playing off a handicap of 22 finished with a fine 38 points, and second place went to Julie Englert, 26 H/C 37 points.
Ball winners: John Williams 36 points, Denis Hayes 35 points C/B, Ian Browne 35 points and Graham Barrow 33 points C/B.
NTPs - 3rd: Ian Browne, 6th: Garrie Lette, 11th: Mark Stephenson, 16th: Rod Tansey.
Wednesday, January 29, Ladies Stableford competition.
On Wednesday, 15 ladies teed off at the respectable time of 9am, and out of those, only one player played under her handicap.
The winners were Alison Gilbert playing off 17 H/C 38 points, and the winner of B grade was Anne Quenby playing off 42, returned with 36 points on a countback.
Ball winners were grinners: Elizabeth Barker 36 points C/B, Julie Englert 36 points, Robyn McGrath 35 points, Vicki Sims 34 points C/B, Bernie Wickes 34 points, Carol Burgess 33 points.
NTPs - 3rd: Janice Davidson, 6th: Suzette Heydon, 11th: Tina Cook, 16th: Carol Burgess.
Bright Ladies please note, Wednesday, February 19 is Ladies Opening Day, supporting Breast Cancer Foundation.
Please wear as much pink clothing as possible, $20 per player, and afternoon tea is included - 8.30am for a 9am start.
Thursday, January 30th, men’s Stableford competition.
Finally, all those lovely visiting golfers had to return from where they came, and the Bright locals had a chance of winning something.
A group of 37 players made up the competition and the results proved that if you play enough golf your time will come, and you could be rewarded with a good score.
Results are as follows: Michael O’Sullivan playing off 25 handicap, returned with a fine 42 points; Nifty Nev Blewitt, the Squire from Mudgegonga finally found some form, playing off 24, retuned with 41 points C/B; Mo O’Shea playing off 14 H/C came in with 41 points including 12 pars; Peter Dredge from Howlong Golf Club, 22 H/C 41 points.
Ball winners: Scott Hovenga 40 points, Ian Macca McIntyre 38 points, Mark Stephenson 37 points C/B, and Rod Brown won the last ball 37 points C/B.
NTPs - 3rd: Phil Jessen, 6th: Nifty Nev Blewitt, 11th no one put their name down, so bad luck and the 16th went to John O’Shea.
Chicken winner went to Butch Thomas 22 points, and the NAGA went to Johnnie Ocean with a miserable 25 points.
Friday, January 31, ladies 9 hole Stableford competition.
Winner: Sarah Williamson 17 points, and ball winner Lauren Velicki 16 points C/B.
NTP on the sixth hole went to Anne Quenby.
Saturday, February 1, all gender, stroke, Monthly Medal for the men. A group of players teed off and for the men it was the blue markers.
With the combination of great play and rock-hard fairways, the scoring was reflected with many players playing well under their usual level of skill.
Although the weather wasn’t conducive to assisting those who were walking the course, those who ventured out early did reap the benefits of the cooler morning.
Results: Guy Packham 17 H/C 67 C/B nett and medal winner, Neil Harley 28 H/C nett 67, Darcy Beecher 17 H/C nett 68 C/B, Jack Thompson 26 H/C nett 68 C/B, Cooper Thompson 12 H/C nett 68.
Ball winners: Phil Jessen nett 70, Garrie Lette 71 C/B, Mo O’Shea 71 C/B, Gavin Hunt 71 C/B, Carol Bailey 71 C/B, Crusty Carlisle 71 C/B, Zorro Zwiersen 71 C/B.
NTPs - 3rd: Tony Chalwell, 6th: jackpot, 11th: Mick Dunne, 16th: Chris Oswin.
The proud winner of the NAGA went to John Forbes from Pinchgut, 109, nett 84.
This Saturday is the Jeff Tucker Memorial Day - check with golf shop for times.
The Bright Golf Guru thought of the week: “Do you inhale, or exhale on your back swing, that is the question?”
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 Albert Street Phone: 5752 2288
Bright, 3 Ireland Street Phone: 5755 1327 www.belmores.com.au
PAYNTER & ASSOCIATES
Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors
25 Clyde Street Myrtleford Phone: 5751 1995
Email admin@paynterassoc.com.au www.paynterandassociates.com.au
Dennis Kersting Dip. RM CM. Myrtleford - 18 Rayner Street Phone: 0427 440 744
Now at 29 Clyde Street Myrtleford Plus Standish Street Surgery & Bright Allied Health For appointments call 5752 2817 Hearing Services
JO ROSS-JACKSON HEARING CENTRES
OVENS VALLEY INSURANCE BROKERS
Myrtleford, 47 Clyde Street Phone: 5752 1151
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
Bright, 104 Gavan St Phone: 5715 9705 Email: info@ovib.com.au Promote your
Phone Jenny on 57313305 or email jking@nemedia.com.au
Red-hot results for Myrtleford lawn bowlers
IT was a full house at the Myrtleford Bowls Club for round 13 of the weekend pennant competition, as all levels played at home.
On a very hot day, the Myrtleford’s A1 team needed a victory over Wangaratta to obtain a spot in the top four on the competition ladder.
Unfortunately for them, they were le languishing one point behind when an early end to the days play was called because of the excessive heat, with Wangaratta winning 51-50.
Best performers were the Greg Robbins’ team with Lance Symons, Marino Candusio and Michelle Van Praagh, downed 11/15.
Mary Paton’s team went down 11/15, Geo rey Kidd’s team lost 8/12 and Peta Matty’s team lost 10/17.
The weekend B1 teams demon-

hot day on the greens.
strated why they are on top of the ladder with a resounding victory over Moira 71/18.
Je rey Stagg with Denis Piazza, Mark Simpson and Norman Hallett soared with a massive 31/5 win.
Graham Burrington’s team was strong 24/10 and Les Brown’s team came up 16/3.
Myrtleford’s weekend B2 teams came out on top even in the shortened game, winning against Moira with two rinks and an
overall score of 57/38.
Best rink was Lindsay Hamilton, Terry McCaw, Norman Vonarx and Dawn Murtagh.
Helen Murtagh’s team won 23/8 and Phyllis Swindley’s team won 9/24.
Round 12 of the midweek pennant saw Myrtleford’s A2 side defeat Wodonga 53/43 thanks to a ne performance by Michael Dwyer’s team of Mick, Michelle Van Praagh, Walter Dunstone and Jim Murtagh.
Greg Robbin’s team drew 18/18 and Mary Paton’s team went down 15/16.
The midweek B1 side was also successful, beating Moyhu 69/46.
Lindsay Hamilton’s team won 23/13, Pippa Laspina’s team edged out the competition with a 18/17 win, and Colin Smith’s team triumphed 28/16.
BAUDRY RIDING HIGH AFTER NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP WIN
BRIGHT’S Julian Baudry is the best in the country.
The 18-year-old stunned onlookers a er a solo sprint e ort saw him triumph in the under 23 men’s road race at the 2025 AusCycling Road National Championships over in WA in mid-January.
The Alpine Cycling Club member raced to victory in the 136km, 10-lap course with a blistering time of 3hr05:53.
“It’s unreal, I can’t believe it,” Baudry said a er the race.
“I was focusing on the TT (time trial) this week and coming in I just wanted to try get in the break and see how I could nish up in the road race.
“I felt really, really good out there.
“Huge thanks to my coach Mark O’Brien, he’s helped me through the last year-and-a-half and it’s been a pleasure working with him – he’s got me doing lots of heat training sessions just in preparation for this, and it’s paid o .
“It’s amazing I never thought this would happen, I can’t believe it, I’m so excited for the year ahead wearing the green and gold.”
Baudry had been riding with a breakaway group of a dozen other riders which had pulled

WINNING FEELING: Alpine
National Championships.
away halfway through the race.
Favourite rider Fergus Browning attacked from the peloton, assisted by some CCASHE x BODYWRAP riding teammates, but Baudry dug deep and accelerated away.
“I was bit nervous at the start, trying to make sure I got in the


break, and when we nally got away I was really happy and just stayed with the group and noticed down in the bottom corners before Mounts Bay Road I was gapping them in the corners,” he said.
“I wasn’t braking into most of them and I was able to open up a gap each time.
“When I heard Browning was chasing I just went full gas into those corners and got a gap on the second-last lap and tried to hold it all the way into the nish.”
Baudry also claimed the Pedal Ma a King of the Mountains Jersey.
Power shake Demons to break drought
IN only its second match since December, Mount Beauty’s district first grade cricket team has defeated rivals Dederang last Saturday.
The win has given the Power a huge boost to kickstart their season, which is their first win since way back in round three. In a shift away from the Power’s bat-first philosophy, Craig Henderson and Ethan Brown were at their miserly best, conceding only 18 runs in the first powerplay, with a wicket to Brown courtesy of a regulation catch to stand-in keeper Adam Whelan.
Wickets fell at regular intervals for Dederang, who were reeling at 7/100 with three wickets to second-change bowler Steve Pask, but managed to post a defendable 8/152 due to a very handy lower-order score of 43 from Nick Hynes.
The chase started brilliantly with an opening partnership of 73, thanks largely to skipper Greg McLennan and a characteristically powerful knock of 71 off only 51 balls, including nine boundaries and three sixes, along with a solid contribution of 14 from Pask to keep the scoreboard ticking over from the other end.
McLennan has now hit 379 one-day runs this season at an average of 42 and is almost single-handedly keeping his team with a foot in the door of finals action.
The Power couldn’t regain control of their innings and lost four wickets for only 13 runs, which included two wickets in an over to remove Todd Jeanes and Whelan within the space of three legal deliveries, and the alarm bells began to ring very loudly when McLennan was dismissed two overs later.
The Power still needed 32 runs with three wickets in hand after Nick Iaria (18 runs) was run out by Andrew Creamer, but Brown (13) and Chris Derrick (17) used their experience to finish the chase from a precarious position to record their third win of the season.
Mount Beauty now replace Dederang in fourth place on the ladder and can breathe a little easier with three rounds remaining. As expected, McLennan found plenty of positives from the hard-fought win.
“This win was great for us,” McLennan said.
“The pitch looked a little bit slow when we arrived which we thought might suit our bowlers, but our bowling was very disciplined this week, with very few bad balls.
“After a good start to our innings, we lost a few wickets and our lower middle order was under a lot of pressure.
“But Nick, Ethan and Chris gutsed it out in oppressive conditions and showed some real steel to secure the win.
“I think we are a better side than our results show so far and this weekend showed a hint of what we can produce.”
Mount Beauty’s second eleven chased down 170 at home to win by three wickets, with captain Frank Iaria compiling a classy innings of 76 runs to help secure the victory. Both sides will be hoping to make it two wins in a row this Saturday against Bethanga.

Country Week squad
THE squad of 14 players which will head down to Melbourne in February to represent the Wangaratta and District Cricket Association at Country Week has been revealed.
Led by Rovers United Bruck skipper Paddy McNamara, the squad features strike bowlers and gun bats from ve of the seven A grade sides in the competition.
The WDCA will play back in Division Two, a er a runners up placing in 2023 saw them promoted to the Provincial Division last season then relegated back.
The squad will play a game daily from Monday, February 10 through to Thursday, February 13 against teams from Sunraysia, Gisborne, Bellarine Peninsula and the South West, with the nal to be held on Friday, February 14.
WDCA president Justin Kelly said the team had a very strong chance to make the nals.
“The team has been relegated to Division Two this season, but we have seven players with previous experience at Melbourne Country Week,” he said.
“There are seven allrounders which will be good for our batting
VICTORIAN clubs, associations, schools, and local governments are encouraged to apply for the 2024-25 Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund (ACIF).
The ACIF provides funding for community cricket facility projects, enhancing participation and accessibility of cricket as a game for all.
Victorian cricket continues to lead applications to this national program with 60 projects funded in season 2023-24 and over $250 million of partnered investment with Federal, State and local governments generated since the ACIF’s inception in 2019.
With over 150 projects funded across the past two seasons, the ACIF is a signicant opportunity for Victorian cricket stakeholders to enhance facilities.
Two of these funded projects include a new threebay training net facility at Bethanga Cricket Club and a new synthetic centre wicket at Invergordon Cricket Club.

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
depth, with a good mix of experience and youth, led by Paddy Mc-
“The WDCA were runners up in Division Two two seasons ago and we are certainly hoping to get to the grand nal.”
McNamara said he was thrilled to lead such a strong and dynamic team out for redemption.
“We have a good squad together with a good mix of experience and youth which will be crucial during a big week of four to ve days of cricket,” he said.
“We will be in Division Two this year a er being relegated from Provincial last year so we will de nitely be looking to redeem ourselves by nishing top two and getting the league back into Provincial next season.”
Melbourne Country Week commences on Monday, February 10.
WDCA 2025 Melbourne Country Week Squad
Paddy McNamara (C) (Rovers United Bruck)
Dylan Bursill (Ovens Valley United)
Ryan Collier (Rovers United Bruck)
Gregor Fraser (Ovens Valley United)
Matt Lister (City Colts)
Cooper Matheson (Wangaratta Magpies)
Josh Nanson (City Colts)
Tyler Nanson (City Colts)
Charith Perera (Rovers United Bruck)
Jack Ryan (Beechworth Wanderers)
Matt Ryan (Beechworth Wanderers)
Jimmy Thewlis (Wangaratta Magpies)
Cooper Thomason (Ovens Valley United)
Matt Whitten (Rovers United Bruck)
Schedule, MCW Division Two
Monday, February 10 –Wangaratta v Sunraysia @ Yarrambat War Memorial Park, Plenty Valley
Tuesday, February 11 –Wangaratta v Gisborne @ Windy Hill, Essendon
Wednesday, February 12 –
Bellarine Peninsula v Wangaratta @ Hogans Road Res No. 1, Hoppers Crossing
Thursday, February 13 – South West v Wangaratta @ McGain Oval, Lebanon Res, Strathmore

Friday, February 14 – Finals.

toria CEO Nick Cummins said.
“From revitalised nets to a new lease on life for a pavilion, great facilities are essential for growing participation and can have a profound impact on a community club.”
Cricket Victoria local government and infrastructure manager Callum Dean reinforced the importance of facilities as a key asset for the continued growth of Victorian cricket as a game for all.
The ACIF is open to all clubs, associations, schools, councils and cricket facility managers, acknowledging the important role these partners play in providing and maintaining facilities for community cricket across Victoria.
The ACIF provides funding in the following two categories, with Minor projects eligible for up to $15,000, and Major projects from $15,001 –$40,000.
Applications of more than $40,000 will be considered on a case-by-case basis under the Strategic Cricket Infrastructure Funding category.
Projects under this category will generally be multi-
The maximum grant amount available is up to 50 per cent of the total project cost.
faceted and provide a broad regional bene t for cricket.
“Cricket Victoria continues to lead the way nationally with the volume of successful ACIF applications, and we aim for this to continue with the 202425 program,” Cricket Vic-
“No matter the scale of upgrades, new and improved facilities are vital in keeping players engaged, encouraging growth and ensuring cricket remains an inclusive and accessible sport for all,” he said. Applications for the 202425 ACIF close Sunday, March 23, 2025.
For support in completing ACIF applications or for more information, contact Cricket Victoria’s local government and infrastructure manager Callum Dean at cdean@cricketvictoria.com.au.


Tigers humbled by Bushrangers

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
A SERIES of unfortunate dismissals spelled disaster for Ovens Valley United’s A grade squad at McNamara on Saturday, defeated by Benalla Bushrangers.
Resuming at 0/9 chasing 235 for victory, the Tigers failed to capitalise on their starts, bundled up for 195 all out in the 68th over.
Openers Gregor Fraser and Seamus Phillips returned to the crease a er surviving late on day one, but Benalla’s Conor Brodie targeted the stumps, picking up their wickets LBW (Phillips) and bowled (Fraser) in quick succession to have the Tigers 2/32.
Conner Forde lasted 30 deliveries and found the boundary three times in his knock of 16, but the pressure was on when he was caught o the spin bowling of James Ladd.
The ever-dangerous Geeth Alwis was at his scintillating best, anchoring the innings for 123 deliveries and notching up his fourth 50 on his way to 80.
Together with Cooper Thomason (23 from 43) and Dylan Bursill (21 from 53), the Tigers’ middle order would get the score well into triple digits, but poorly-timed dismissals either side of the tea break would see the home side languish at 6/268.
With only the tail remaining, the Bushrangers surged, despite the best e orts of teenager Noah White (20 from 41), picking up the last four wickets for 27 runs.
Skipper Bursill said his side just wasn’t up to the standard required by Benalla’s bowling.
“A lot of our blokes got starts, but no one could go on with it, bar Geeth who batted quite well,” he said.
“All of their pace bowlers bowled their lines and lengths – that’s something we spoke about a er the game, we’ve got to mimic that and take a leaf out of their book.
“None of them are super quick,

once again top scored for the Tigers with a handy knock of 80 from 123 balls, but wasn’t able to steer his side home.


they just bowl their areas, they stack the eld, and that’s something we can’t do at the minute with our bowling
“Geeth was maybe on 50 and he started leaving the ball a lot because they were bowling in the areas and they had his scoring options so stacked, so it was a bit of a risky shot whether he had to hit it through them or over the top.”
Bursill said the batting order needed to go on with their in-
nings after doing the hard work and seeing out deliveries.
“We just got starts and couldn’t go on with it, myself included,” he said.
“A couple of us went out at bad times – myself and Geeth went out either side of the tea interval, that wasn’t great.
“Seamus was a bit unfortunate as well and Greg, because they did the hard work last week and not to get a decent start was un-
fortunate but you get that.
“Young Noah White, who’s only 15, he batted really well at the end there.”
The Tigers are now equal in fourth position, with wins needed to remain in the hunt for nals.
“We’ll write our own script, our nals start early,” Bursill said.
“We’ve got Beechworth this week, obviously they’re in pretty good form too.
“They’ve got some really good
players – they made nals last year and they’ve added the Ryan boys (Matt and Jack) and another couple of handy players to their list, and some of their young kids are coming along nicely too.
“We’ve just got to turn it around pretty quickly a er the last two games.”
The Tigers host Beechworth Wanderers this weekend at McNamara Reserve, with the rst ball from 1pm.


Whether it be local events, food and wine or exploring the region’s many natural attractions, Alpine Alive provides a comprehensive guide of things to do and see. The new format Alpine Alive will be printed in full colour on premium white newsprint and will be published six times a year to coincide with key visitor times and local events. As well as being inserted into the Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer, the supplement will also be a stand alone publication with 500 extra copies being distributed at