INDEPENDENT Helen Haines has swept to a resounding victory in the seat of Indi with her ‘Cockateers’ spending a night of cheering and welcoming the verdict cast by the greatest portion of the electorate’s voters.
With 94,947 votes counted in Indi with 120,854 eligible voters, Dr Haines has 58.49 per cent of the twocandidate-preferred (TCP) vote, with nearest rival Liberal James Trenery on 41.51pc (TCP).
The rst preference vote was up on the 2022 election for Dr Haines with 43.14pc (37,514), a swing of 2.46pc, while Mr Trenery accumulated 30.89pc (26,858 votes).
Next was Labor - Mitch Bridges with 7.96pc, One Nation - Athol Thomas (6.95pc), The Greens - Alysia Regan (3.3pc), Legalise Cannabis - Ben Howman (2.95pc), Family First - Michael White (1.79pc), Libertarian - Tim Quilty (1.61pc), and Independent - Mark McFarlane (1.42pc).
It was a buzzing room of supporters dressed in the well-known orange attire, energised by the win, as Dr Haines made her winner’s speech at about 9.30pm on Saturday evening.
They had been receiving regular updates of results relayed across a public address system at the usual lair for the orange army on election night, Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre’s Memorial Hall. It was a comprehensive win across many polling places for Dr Haines on election day, with the totals indicating many voters were happy with what the Independent has delivered over the last two terms - six years.
In her speech Dr Haines made strong reference to the 940 active volunteers across the electorate that stretches from Wodonga to King Lake and coined the term for them, the Cockateers.
Dr Haines was introduced as the winner of Indi with Destiny’s Child song ‘Independent Women’ on the loud speaker prompting the returning MP to blow kisses and partake in a dance as she approached the stage.
“I’m standing in front of you all again with such pride in my heart, such privilege to be re-elected as a member of the House of Representatives in the magni cent federation seat of Indi,” she said to raucous applause.
“But the victory is not mine, the victory is yours, all of the people of
Indi, those who voted for me and those who didn’t because I know that having Independent representation in the seat of Indi has not only made Indi a better place, but has made the nation a better place.”
Dr Haines acknowledged Anthony Albanese’s return as Prime Minister and she said she’s looking forward to continuing her work and cited her strong relationships with other MPs in Parliament.
She referred to the scrutineers as the “guardian angels of democracy” for the work they do, and the extended campaign period was also noted.
“It is an amazing story we have to tell here, what started as a local movement with 12 people in the library up the road who just wanted
an MP to listen to them, truly is now a movement right across Australia,” she said.
“At the heart of our campaign, the heart is listening to the people of Indi and what matters to them and what they want to see in their representation.
“We listened across 12,257 meaningful conversations, we knocked on 15,721 doors, more doors in more towns that we’ve ever knocked on before.
“I’ve got a new word and I’m calling it the Cockateers, I think it is o cially a new word.”
Dr Haines promised to deliver the local impact that she promised constituents and the national in uence that she said her supporters have collectively achieved.
More than 1100 people voted in Myrtleford on Election Day
By PHOEBE MORGAN
MYRTLEFORD’S federal election polling station inside the Myrtleford Senior Citizens’ Centre in Smith Street ebbed and flowed with voters throughout Election Day last Saturday.
A total of 1144 people voted at the polling station, with many hundreds getting in early on Saturday morning, before a break in foot traffic for lunchtime.
Approximately half-a-dozen different parties had their volunteers assisting with voters’ inquiries, handing out how candi-
date’s how to vote cards and welcoming voters to the site.
“There was a rush earlier this morning,” party volunteer, Rebecca Goodwin said.
“Those were the early birds; I think we’ve seen between 150 to 200 people so far.
“I expect after lunch there will be another rush in the afternoon.”
Local resident Sonny Naylor said voting in his first election on Saturday was “a good overall experience”.
“It was a lot easier to vote on the day, than by postal vote,” the 20 year old said.
Fellow Myrtleford district local, Danielle Coombes, said she chose to vote in person on election day for the convenience.
“I felt like I already knew who I was voting for this time around,” she said.
“Everyone volunteering outside was super friendly and happy to talk with you.
“The officials working with the AEC were really helpful, because once I went inside the polling place, I got lost for a second because of all the temporary cardboard fencing and so on.
“They were very helpful and showed me the way.”
“I want to see us do better in housing, lower the cost of living, better health and childcare, the infrastructure we need to make sure we can continue to thrive,” she said.
“It truly is the biggest honour of my life to represent the people of Indi.”
Dr Haines spoke about the vision for the future, holding major parties to account, scienti c action on climate change, and making sure it is a fair Australia.
She said it’s about making sure our aged care, mental health and childcare services are up to scratch and better, ensuring telecommunications work, and supporting a better democracy.
Mr Trenery was disappointed with the loss but said he enjoyed the campaign and meeting a lot of great people along the way.
“There were several thousand people who supported us and we had more volunteers and signs out than we’ve ever had,” he said.
“It was not a good result for either country or Indi, from my perspective.
“Mans eld was strong and there were other small booths where we had wins which was absolutely magni cent.
“Overall we didn’t move very far compared to the last election, and we’ll wait for the nal count but it looks like it’s going to be the same, which is better than the national result.
“We generated everything from within Indi and it was a real local campaign and not a lot of dollars or people coming from outside Indi.
“That’s ne and we were pretty happy with that, but to get that result it was absolutely fantastic.”
POLLING
THE PARTY: Re-elected Indi Independent MP Helen Haines is surrounded by her supporters at the election party in Wangaratta a er their victory on Saturday night.
DEMOCRACY AT WORK: Some 1144 people voted in the federal election at the Myrtleford polling station in Smith Street on Election Day. PHOTO: Phoebe Morgan
Public feedback sought on council draft budget
ALPINE Shire Council has released its dra budget for 2025/26, with community submissions being sought up until 5pm on Tuesday, 27 May.
Councillors last week endorsed the dra budget for public release, with key aspects being a three per cent rate increase, with a $36.6M operating expenditure and $8.0M capital works program.
Mayor Cr Sarah Nicholas said council is keen to hear from residents and ratepayers to ensure the nal budget re ects the community’s needs and aspirations.
“This dra budget showcases our strategic priorities and the input we get from the community will be key
to nalising it,” she said. “It’s important for everyone to have their say, and we’re looking forward to hearing from as many people as possible during the consultation period.”
During the initial consultation for the dra budget in late 2024, council received 34 individual submissions, with six submitters formally presenting their proposals to councillors.
Mayor Nicholas said each submission was carefully evaluated against the current and projected work program, resource availability and alignment with the Council Plan.
Key initiatives funded in the dra budget are the introduction of a customer
Pop-ins at local events to get community input
COUNCIL will be popping up at local events and markets across the shire throughout the month of May to chat with residents and gather more feedback on the draft budget:
• Harrietville Community Pop-up: Saturday, 10 May, from 9.30am to 11.30am at the Harrietville Community Hall.
• Bright’s Make It, Bake It, Grow It Market: Saturday, 17 May, from 9am to 12.30pm in Howitt Park.
• Dederang Community Pop-up: Sunday, 18 May, from 9.30am to 11.30am at The General Store.
• Myrtleford”s Farmer’s Market: Saturday, 24 May, from 8.30am to 12.30pm in the Myrtleford Piazza.
Council dropped in to Mount Beauty Market and Freeburgh Bush Market on Saturday and Sunday last week.
charter, completion of ood studies, support for waste diversion initiatives, and the development of economic development and tourism strategies.
The capital works program, totalling $8 million, includes signi cant investments in roadworks, waste management improvements, property and
building upgrades, eet and equipment renewal, and other infrastructure projects.
Council’s chief executive o cer, Will Jeremy, said council’s total income is projected to be $35.3 million, a decrease from the previous year due to reduced grant funding.
“Despite this, the budget
includes increased allocations for strategic planning, youth development, community grants, and public facility maintenance,” he said.
“We’ve made signi cant strides in streamlining our operations, which allows us to reallocate resources to critical areas without compromising service quality.”
Despite originally considering it, council has decided not to apply for a higher rate cap in the dra budget, opting instead to adhere to the three per cent rate increase in line with the Victorian government’s Fair Go Rates System.
Council said the decision was made a er careful consideration of the community’s needs and nancial sustainability.
The nal budget will be presented for approval at the June council meeting, incorporating community feedback and any necessary adjustments.
To read the dra budget and provide feedback, visit: https://engage.alpineshire. vic.gov.au/202526-budget.
Bright police appeal for public help on alleged assault of minor in shop
BRIGHT police are appealing for information and witnesses to come forward following an alleged assault on a three-year-old boy.
The incident occurred at Morses Creek Bakery in Anderson Street on Saturday, 26 April at approximately 1pm.
“We’re putting out an appeal for information in relation to an incident where a gentleman grabbed a threeyear old boy and hit him with an open hand without his parents’ permission,”
Leading Senior Constable, Scott Baldock of the Bright Police Station said.
“We’re hoping someone will come forward to shed more light on the incident.”
Anyone with information can contact Ld Sen Const Baldock on (03) 5755 1444.
the Myrtleford Times/Alpine Observer on (03) 5731 3307 or email us at edit.timesobserver@nemedia.com.au
Easter surprise: tennis club up for state award
By JEFF ZEUSCHNER
MYRTLEFORD Lawn Tennis Club is in the running for a state title.
The club is one of three finalists vying for the Most Outstanding Tournament, as part of the Victorian Community Tennis Awards for 2025.
“We’re only a small club of around 120 members and nearly everyone contributes to the staging of our annual Easter Tournament,” he said.
“It’s a very successful event and players love it because of the courts, food and our country hospitality and friendliness.
were booked out ever earlierwithin the hour - with 126 entries (96 players) competing in junior matches at the courts at McNamara Reserve, and 476 entries (319 players) competing in senior games on the lawn courts.
The 2025 awards ceremony will be held in conjunction with National Volunteer Week and will shine a light on community and grassroots excellence at the iconic Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club on 22 May.
The club’s 35th Easter Tournament (senior and junior) is pitted against the Victorian Schools Boys and School Girls Championships and the Rye Tennis Club’s 46th Annual Australia Day Tournament for the prestigious honour.
Club president Peter Ternes said the club was thrilled to be recognised and up for such an award.
“They really enjoy being able to play a round robin format in doubles and mixed (seniors) and in the juniors, rather than a straight knock-out fixture.”
Mr Ternes said the popularity of the event was clearly evident by the fact entries were full within 70 minutes of opening for the 2024 event.
Entries for this year’s event, held over Easter last month,
Mr Ternes said the tournament helps keep the club alive financially, covering the expense of maintaining the club and courts, without necessitating a rise in membership fees for more than 10 years.
“It’s also a big boost to the town economy too,” he said.
Tennis Victoria CEO, Kim Kachel, said the awards are a powerful reminder of the passion and dedication that drive tennis at the grassroots level.
Mr Ternes, his wife Robyn, and Alan and Kaye Heberlewho have been involved with the tournament since it started more than 36 years ago - will be representing the club at the awards night.
Fellow club member Vicki Moore, who has also been involved since the start, as well as event junior referee and treasurer for more than 20 years Marcus James, were also to attend but are unable to do so.
A taste of community at Freeburgh Bush Market
THE Freeburgh Bush Market drew record crowds to the Freeburgh Community Hall on Sunday, wrapping up the Bright Autumn Festival with a vibrant celebration of local life.
The event, which is the hall’s biggest annual fundraiser, featured a number of bustling stalls
SIZZLING SUCCESS: Eric Jones also spent some time operating the barbecue, to make the weekend complete.
especially Bruce and Lyn Miller for their years of service.
Local businesses Woolworths, Clean Bowled and SixPence were also thanked for their generous donations and support.
Mr Parente said events like these are not possible without the community coming together.
“Thank you to so many members of the community who donated food, volunteered and otherwise helped where you could,” she said.
the Rotary club, and the hall committee.
Organisers extended heartfelt thanks to local donors and volunteers,
Funds raised at the market will go toward ongoing hall improvements and the annual Christmas Gathering Party, keeping Freeburgh’s community spirit alive year-round.
Big changes ahead for Aged Care
The number of Australians aged over 65 is expected to more than double in the next 40 years while the number of people aged over 85 is predicted to triple in that time.
1 July 2025 marks the start of a host of new programs and improvements for the aged care sector. Several announcements have already been made this year, covering wage rises for aged care workers and nurses, and an increase in government funding for residential aged care accommodation .
In one of the most significant changes, the new Aged Care Act begins on 1 July. The Act aims to ensure the viability and quality of aged care.
A report by the Aged Care Taskforce last year calculated the residential aged care sector will need $56 billion by 2050 to upgrade facilities and build more rooms.
Current funding arrangements aren’t working. In the 20222023 financial year, almost half of all accommodation providers made a loss.
Some $300 million in federal grants will be delivered to accommodation providers this year to help with capital works upgrades.
And to improve the viability of the facilities, the government is introducing other measures including larger means-tested
want to stay in their own homes as they age. The federal government is investing $4.3 billion in a new Support at Home program, which will provide clinical care, independence and everyday living costs
The government will pay 100 per cent of clinical care costs while Support at Home recipients will make a contribution towards independence. The contribution amount will be calculated using the Age Pension means test and it depends on the level of support needed and the combination of income and assets. The highest classification with the most funding will receive a package of services worth $78,000 per year. There’ll also be funding for assistive technology and home
modifications and end of life care.
A new cap on contributions will also apply. No one will pay more than $130,000 in their lifetime - whatever their means or length of care at home or in residential accommodation.
The governemnt will contribute (on average) for every $1 contributed by a:
Full pensioner
$12.70 for a Medium level (budget around 22,000)
$19.80 for the Highest level (budget around 78,000)
Part pensioner
$6.10 for a Medium level (budget around 22,000)
$8.50 for the Highest level (budget around 78,000)
Self-funded retiree & Commonwealth Seniors Health Card eligible
$1.60 for a Medium level (budget around 22,000)
$2.20 for the Highest level (budget around 78,000)
Please give us a call if you have questions about the changes being implemented or if we can help you to plan ahead.
FREEBURGH’S FINAL FESTIVAL EVENT: Swarms of locals and visitors flocked to Freeburgh to enjoy all the market had to o er. PHOTOS: Freeburgh Community Hall committee
Fire Danger Period lifted across shire
THE Fire Danger Period, which imposed re restrictions throughout the Alpine Shire since November 18 last year, o cially ended on May 1.
CFA chief o cer Jason He ernan con rmed the liing of restrictions across the shire and most other areas of the state last week.
Fire restrictions have,
however, been extended in May in ve local government areas in the state, including Towong Shire until May 26.
While landowners in Alpine Shire no longer need to apply for a permit to burn-o , Mr He ernan has urged them to register any burn-o s online (https:// www.cfa.vic.gov.au/contact/
Burn off safety checklist:
• Check and monitor weather conditions - particularly wind.
• Postpone your activity if high fire risk conditions develop.
• Notify your neighbours if the burn will generate fire and smoke.
• Leave a three-metre fire break, free from flammable materials around the burn.
• Ensure you have enough water on hand (10 litres for small fires).
• Never leave a burn-off unattended - stay for its entire duration.
• Ensure there are enough people to monitor, contain and extinguish the burn effectively.
register-your-burn-o ) to help reduce unnecessary callouts.
“We’re asking all landowners to register their burn-o s online, even if their mu-
nicipality has exited restrictions,” he said.
“Registering helps prevent
SES crews hone high angle rescue skills
BRIGHT has been the perfect base for Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) units to conduct technical rope rescues in some of the state’s most challenging terrain.
Members representing VICSES Bright, Nillumbik, Whittlesea and Marysville units recently completed the nal stage of their High Angle Rescue Operator accreditation, following a four-day course which saw them learn and re ne rescue techniques in partnership with CFA volunteers from Mount Beauty.
Based at Bright, the course saw volunteers undertake simulated rescue events in natural and man-made landscapes, developing their skills at the VICSES Bright Unit and at the nearby Bright Brewery in late-March before returning to the region last month to complete mock rescues at Mount Buffalo and at a telephone tower outside of Bright.
Over the four-day training cycle, volunteers were able to build on their previous completion of Steep Angle Rescue training, constructing and operating complex rope systems in wilderness and industrial environments while fostering camarade-
rie with their fellow rst responders in the process.
false alarms that divert resources from genuine emergencies.”
Mr He ernan said since 1 April, CFA has responded to 127 preventable vegetation res across Victoria, with more than half (53 per cent) caused by escaped burno s, and others by bon res, camp res, re pits and reworks.
Andrew Feagan, VICSES operations o cer technical rescue said while local VICSES units undertake regular high angle rescue skills maintenance in a unit setting, large-scale VIC-
SES and CFA-run training courses are also held several times each year throughout the state to ensure volunteers are well-prepared to manage these high-risk and high-consequence, multiagency rescue scenarios.
“These courses are o en
run in partnership with local businesses, Parks Victoria and private landholders, allowing volunteers to accurately simulate real-life emergency response,” he said.
“In 2024, VICSES volunteers were called to almost 150 high-angle rescues
across Victoria and already in 2025, crews have been called to more than 50 designated high-angle rescue scenarios, providing vital support to community members caught in challenging and di cult-toreach terrain.”
More than
54kg of cannabis crop seized from a Benalla property
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
POLICE uncovered 26 mature cannabis plants at a Benalla address with a man to be questioned.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said Benalla officers executed a search warrant of the Sydney Road property on 14 April.
“During the search, police located approximately 26 mature cannabis plants, with a total weight exceeding 54 kilograms, classified as a commercial quantity,” they said.
The spokesperson said a 36-year-old man was expected to be interviewed and charged with cultivating, trafficking and possessing cannabis.
“Police are committed to disrupting illegal drug activity to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our community,” they said.
Anyone with information about drug cultivation or trafficking was urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Dragon boat passion pays
ARI Panozzo at age 13 is the only junior member at the Mt Beauty Dragon Boat Club.
His interest in the sport came about by association with his Oma, Cathy Young, who is the president of the club.
At the recent Australian Championship competitions in Penrith, NSW, Ari was a member of the Joeys, a composite crew made up of juniors from all over Australia who don’t have a team to race with.
On days one and two Ari won two bronze medals, and then won silver and gold representing Victoria on day three in the state by state competition.
Ari started paddling at age 10, training twice a week and working out at the Evolution Gym once a week, as well as paddling with the Beechworth club occasionally.
He has done display paddling with the Para Dragons, a team made up of those with a disability or who are neurodiverse.
Dragon boating has a World Series competition, so one day we might see Ari participating in the series.
It is a sport for all ages, with the oldest member at the Mt Beauty club being 75.
The Mt Beauty Dragon Boat Club is conducting a social paddle every Sunday in May that will be at the Mt Beauty Pondage starting at 8.40am , all welcome.
The season runs from September to May, so think about joining up for fitness and fun.
By FAY MASON, Kiewa Valley Correspondent
ARTIST in residence at the Bogong Centre of Sounds Culture is Emma Ikin.
Her work encompasses animation, small sculpture, and large scale site special works.
Emma will be giving an artist talk and film screening of “Sunkland Junction” at the Mt Beauty library this Friday, 9 May at 4 pm.
The Frankston based artist is currently undertaking a two week residency at the Bogong Centre of Sounds Culture in Bogong Village, working on her project called The Alpine Landscape.
For more information on Emma’s work go to her website https:// www.emmaikin.com
THIS morning on Alpine FM s Brunch Program Sue White will be speaking about her passion, all things dogs at 9.30am; while at 11.10am Alpine Shire mayor Sarah Nicholas returns to give the update on council matters.
Stay tuned for an upcoming interview with Middle East specialist Dr Norman Ricklefs, for an expert overview on the situation in the Middle East.
Alpine FM is your emergency broadcaster.
Council seeks feedback on draft revenue, rating plan
THE Alpine Shire Council is seeking community feedback on its dra Revenue and Rating Plan 2025.
The plan outlines the framework for generating the necessary revenue to support the implementation of the Council Plan and annual budget over the next four years. Under the plan, rate revenue will account for 66 per cent of council’s total operating expenditure of $33.6 million in the dra 2025/26 budget, with the remainder coming from government grants (20 per cent), contributions (two per cent), fee income (5.2 per cent) and other revenue (six per cent).
The dra plan explains how council applies Capital Improved Value (CIV) to all properties, then uses a di erential rating system to determine individual rates.
Changes in the dra include placing Dinner Plain in the commercial/industrial di erential rate and the addition of the State Government’s Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund.
The plan also details the assumptions, policies, and decisions related to both rate and non-rate revenue, property valuation processes, and di erential rating strategies.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, encouraged input from residents and stakeholders.
The plan can be viewed at https://engage. alpineshire.vic.gov.au/revenue-and-ratingplan-2025.
Printed copies can also be viewed at council’s customer service centre in Bright and at the shire’s libraries in Bright, Myrtleford and Mt Beauty.
Submissions close at 5pm on 27 May.
The nal plan will be considered for adoption at the June council meeting.
Car thefts, thefts from vehicles in Mt Beauty
POLICE are appealing for public assistance following a series of stolen vehicles and thefts from vehicles in Mount Beauty between 25 and 26 April.
Any members of the public with CCTV, Dashcam footage or information are asked to contact the Wangaratta CIU (03) 5723 0800.
Police are also reminding the community to ensure your vehicles are locked and not to leave
valuables in vehicles, particularly in clear sight.
Ring found on Gavan Street
BRIGHT police are in possession of a ring found on Gavan Street.
If you believe the ring is your call the Bright Police Station’s property officer at (03) 5755 1444, using property ref 202504-E-2716. You will need to bring proof of ownership.
PADDLING TO SUCCESS: Mt Beauty Dragon Boat Club’s youngest member, Ari Panozzo, won four medals at the recent Dragon Boat Australian competition.
Italian festival set to mark 17 years in Myrtleford this May
BRINGING together the best of the North East’s vibrant Italian culture, authentic food and entertainment, Myrtleford will once again host one of the longestrunning and most anticipated regional Italian festivals, La Fiera, from Friday, 16 to Sunday, 18 May.
Over the past 17 years, La Fiera has grown from a small community celebration to an unmissable weekend where both locals and visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Italian food, wine, culture and sport.
La Fiera will continue to welcome its patrons with the autumnal tradition of roasting chestnuts, which has long been a favourite for the kids, while adults will be sure to sample local Alpine Valley wineries, including Italian varietals such as Barbera, Teroldego, Sangiovese and Vermentino to name a few.
Kicking off the festival on Friday evening, comedian James Liotta will take the stage at the EMPAC Theatre for the first regional performance of his show ‘Mamma’s Still Not Happy’.
Tickets for the show include canapes on arrival crafted by Masterchef semi-finalist Elise Pulbrook and made with stunning local produce.
La Festa, scheduled for the Saturday, is a ticketed event which includes a full schedule of food from our ‘circoli’ (clubs), as they present authentic food from their regions, Trentino, Vicenza and
Trieste, as well as wine and live entertainment.
Those with pre-booked tickets can access La Festa from 10.30am, while tickets on the day will be on sale from 11.30am.
“We’re thrilled to be back for our 17th year as La Fiera continues to grow, bringing new regional offerings and our biggest
entertainment program yet for La Festa,” event organiser, John Reynold-Smith said.
“Entertainment is at the heart of any festival, especially an Italian one and we aim to have something for everyone.
“On the main stage we will have Siesta Cartel, Solo Antico, Top Shelf Duo, roaming artists and more.
PHOTO: Louise Benini
“In Jubilee Park we will have the Children’s Hub with a full program, proudly sponsored by the Bright and Myrtleford Community Bank.”
The festival concludes on Sunday with Il Mercato, an Italian-themed edition of the Myrtleford Farmers’ Market, showcasing local producers with
LA FESTA - SATURDAY 17 MAY
MAIN STAGE
Mass & Procession for St Anthony of Padua
9.00 - 10.00am (not ticketed)
James Liotta & Anthony Demasi - MC
Veneto Choir
10.45 - 11.45am
Billy Doolan – Welcome to Country
11.45 - 12.00pm
Solo Antico
12.00 - 1.15pm
Siesta Cartel
1.15 - 2.15pm & 3.30 - 4.30pm
Anthony Demasi Comedic Spot
2.15 - 2.30pm
The Top Shelf Duo
2.30 - 3.30pm
Times correct at time of print
BENDIGO BANK
CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT
ALL DAY ENTERTAINMENT
Snazzy Snap’s Photo Booth
Balloonatic Bruce
Mountain View Activity Marquee
North East Face Painting
Luigi Zucchini – Magician
11.30am - 12.00pm & 12.45 - 1.15pm
The Movie Night
seasonal produce and artisan stalls, regional wines, food and Italian entertainment.
A cooking masterclass hosted by James Mele (The Meat Room) and Elise Pulbrook will also be on offer.
La Fiera also has so much more; starting Thursday, visitors can enjoy a range of events, including long lunches at wineries, Italian movie night, a spirited La Fiera Cup soccer match, the Old School Museum ‘Migration Exhibit’ and this year an inspiring Billy Doolan art exhibition.
“La Fiera wouldn’t be possible without the support of its sponsors; Bright and Myrtleford Community Bank, Bendigo Bank,” Mr Reynold-Smith said.
“Their commitment to the local community helps bring this muchloved festival to life each year.”
“La Fiera is dedicated to making the festival sustainable which remains one of our key focuses, encouraging recycling, composting and the use of compostable packaging by all stalls.
“After successfully introducing FOGO bins last year, we’re continuing to work with Myrtleford and District Landcare Group and the Myrtleford Community Garden to reduce our impact while delivering the best festival possible.”
For the full weekend program, additional details and ticket bookings to James Liotta’s show and to Saturday’s ‘La Festa’ event, visit the La Fiera website: https:// lafiera.com.au/.
MOVIE INFORMATION
WHERE: EMPAC Theatre – Marian College, Prince Street, Myrtleford
WHAT: Movie & antipasto prior to screening (Bike & Barrel wines available for purchase) from 6.30pm with movie commencing 7.30pm.
COST: $20.00 per person (includes antipasto), bookings recommended
Teacher Michele Cortese is transferred from Rome to a school in Abruzzo which is on the brink of closure due to lack of enrolments.
The movie is set in a small village in the Abruzzo National Park, and was a box o ce hit in Italy with two Nastri d’Argento award for Best Comedy & Best Actress in a comedy film Let’s have fun
www.lafiera.com.au
St Mary’s Primary School shines
MYRTLEFORD’S St Mary’s Primary School has been educating children in Myrtleford for over a century, providing Catholic education which focusses on the whole child.
St Mary’s students are wellrounded, excelling not only academically but also in a variety of extracurricular activities that showcase the diverse gifts and talents of its students.
It has achieved exceptional results in NAPLAN over consecutive years and recently received recognition as one of the highest performing schools in the region.
This success can be attributed to the dedicated educational staff and a school-wide commitment to structured, explicit teaching.
Principal Andrea O’Connor, said the school is incredibly proud of its students’ accomplishments, both in academics and their extracurricular endeavours.
“Our goal is every child at St Mary’s flourishes and at the completion of their educational
journey, they have reached their full potential and are ready to contribute to the wider community,” she said.
Last week, the Year 4 mixed freestyle relay team competed at the state level of the School Sport Victoria competition, placing sixth overall and taking 14 seconds off
ST. MARY’S
ENROLMENTS
their speed time from regionals.
In addition to strength in sport, St Mary’s excels in a range of areas including the performing arts.
The school choir recently performed at the ANZAC Day Commemoration and will be competing at the Albury Wodonga Eisteddfod later this year, where
they have placed first in the small school division for the past several years.
Ms O’Connor said fostering inclusivity and a sense of community is what makes St Mary’s special.
“St Mary’s is a Catholic school and lives by the Gospel values of
compassion and caring for the whole child,” she said.
“All children and families are welcome at St Mary’s and children don’t have to be Catholic to be welcomed to our school community.
“We prioritise the intellectual, spiritual, social, emotional and physical growth of each student, aiming to instill values and a sense of purpose to be our best selves and to support those around us.
“Parents considering St Mary’s for their children can expect an environment where every student is encouraged to thrive, both in and out of the classroom.
“With an array of opportunities to explore and excel, the school continues to prepare its students for success both school and beyond.”
Enrolments for 2026 are now open.
Open Days for future Foundation families will be held in May and August, with a Parent Information Night in June.
For more information or to book a visit at any time, phone the school office on (03) 5752 1808.
All 2026 Foundation families are invited to join us for one of our Open Mornings and our Parent Information Night. During our tours, families will have an opportunity to visit classrooms, ask questions, and discover all that St. Mary's Primary School can offer your child and family. Our Parent Information Night will focus more on the how and why of our teaching model with time for more in-depth discussion.
• Open Day -Thursday, 22 May 9-11am
• Open Day - Friday, 15 August 9-11am
• Parent Info Night - Wed, 26 June 6pm
• Transition Days for enrolled students will begin in late Term 3
Every day is an Open Day at St. Mary's. Please feel free to organise an individual visit at any time.
LEARNING IN CLASS: Year two student Harper Richter enjoys her classes.
ALL SMILES: Foundation students Alira Simpson (left) and Ava Cunneen are enjoying St Mary’s Primary School.
TUCKED away in a tranquil court in Wangaratta, this inviting home offers the perfect blend of comfort, practicality and lifestyle appeal.
Ideal for families or anyone seeking a peaceful retreat, this property delivers an outstanding opportunity to enjoy both indoor and outdoor living.
Entering off the practical front verandah, the home features a spacious kitchen/meals/living zone, which feeds out to a large undercover pergola area in the secure rear yard. The kitchen includes timber cabinetry, gas cooktop, double
oven and dishwasher, with ample storage and a breakfast bar for added functionality.
An additional large separate lounge offers a versatile space for family living or relaxation, with abundant natural light throughout.
The home includes three well-proportioned bedrooms, each with built-in robe, and all serviced by a centrally located family bathroom with separate toilet.
Gas heating and evaporative cooling ensure year-round climate control, providing a comfortable envi-
ronment in every season.
The double carport offers easy allweather off-street parking, with gates facilitating convenient access to the rear yard.
This functional and tidy home is ideal for families or those looking for a peaceful retreat to call home.
Local amenities, schools, and walking paths are all within easy reach, making this home a clever lifestyle choice.
Contact the team to Garry Nash & Co Real Estate to arrange your inspection today.
COLLECTION DATES:
FOR SALE - Comfortable
Own a piece of Victorian High Country between the bustling tourist mecca of Bright and the popular alpine village of Harrietville. Pristine Ovens River frontage for all your camping, swimming and shing needs.
Plus breathtaking views to Mount Feathertop with Great Valley Trail at your front door. Immaculately presented sandstock brick residence with a blended timber exterior ideally positioned to merge into the surrounding countryside with picture perfect views. Luxurious master suite with ensuite, WIR and BIR’s plus three additional generous bedrooms and well appointed main bathroom.
Modern kitchen with twin AEG ovens, SMEG induction cooktop, dishwasher, Caesarstone benchtops and Butler’s pantry. Massive open plan living with combustion wood heater and decked undercover alfresco area. Plus separate studio, workshop/machinery shed and open bay shedding.
Fully fenced into four main paddocks with the potential to graze a small number of livestock. Plus established Truf ere with mature English Oak trees and opportunity to generate additional income.
Only 10 mins to Bright, 10 mins to Harrietville, 40 kms to Mount Hotham and 55 kms to Dinner Plain.
INSPECTIONS Strictly By Appointment Only FOR SALE Price On Application
JOHN HONEYCHURCH 0419 790 924
MICHAEL WELLER 0410 663 041
Cooler weather, hotter golfing action
MYRTLEFORD GOLF CLUB
SATURDAY, 3 May
Drummond Golf Albury Monthly
Medal Stroke & Super 6 AMCR 71
A Grade Winner: Stephen Piddington (11) 82/71. A Grade Runner Up: David Rowe (11) 83/72.
Putts: Angela O’Shaughnessy 25 putts. 9 Hole Winner: Jennifer Leita (51) 17c/b. 9 Hole Runner Up: Pat McPherson (44) 17pts.
MOUNT BEAUTY GOLF CLUB
ON Wednesday, 30 April, the ladies of the Mount Beauty Golf Club played an 18-hole comp which was won by Carol Bartholomew with 34 points from Helen Whittaker with 29 points.
NTP second shot on the seventh was Liz Harvey.
The ladies played a net Stroke round on Saturday, 3 May, which was won by Leesa Bevan with net 73 from Anne Archibald with net 74.
The Monday, 28 April league 18 holes was won by Luke Porritt with 36 points (68 off the stick) from Michael Bartholomew, Andy Cook and Victor Selway with their 35 points each.
The men played the back nine on Wednesday, 30 April which was won by Andy Cook with 21 points, with an eagle on the 14th, from Michael Bartho-
CHAMPIONS: The ladies’ championship at Myrtleford concluded recently, with (from le ) B grade winner Linda Lo us, champion Vicky Sims, and handicap winner Angela O’Shaughnessy finishing ahead of their peers.
WINNER: Leesa Bevan won the stroke round at Mount Beauty on Saturday.
lomew with Tony Campen with their 18 points each.
Monthly Medal, combined with the first round of the Kiewa Cup, was played on Saturday, 3 May.
The Monthly Medal was won by Keith Archibald with a net 73 on a countback from Victor Selway.
Bruce Plant and Ben Rison had net 74s, while Peter Hertzog and Ron Gallagher also got handed balls for their net 75 each.
NTP on the seventh, along with the Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post Office, was Tristan Skitt.
The ninth was Sam Perry, the 17th was Allan Retallick, while Stephen Short took the money on the 18th.
The six players in the ball comp are also in the leads for the Kiewa Cup, with the second round to be played on Saturday, 10 May.
CLUB
BRIGHT COUNTRY GOLF
GOLFER Gary Player once said, “A good golfer has the determination to win, and the patience to wait for the breaks.”
Monday 28th of April, mixed gender Veteran’s Stableford competition.
With a few of the regular Veteran golfers playing at Wangaratta, the field was reduced to 18 golfers.
Winners: Mick Dunne, 15 H/C 36 pts,
Phil Jessen 10 H/C 34 pts.
Ball winners: Graham Badrock 33 pts C/B, Fran Bentley 33 pts, Greg Dawson 32 pts, Andrew Quenby 31 pts C/B.
NTPs: 3rd: Don Grimes, 6th: Phil Jessen, 11th: Graham Badock, 16th: Andy Armstrong.
On Wednesday, 30 April, the Bright ladies teed off in the fifth round of the Maggio Cup.
Played in the Stableford form, the results were – winner: Fran Bentley 32 pts. Ball winners: Carol Burgess 31 pts, Robyn McGrath 28 pts C/B.
NTPs - 3rd: Carol Burgess, 11th: Fran Bentley, 16th: Tina Cook. Thursday, 1 May, men’s Stableford competition.
A field of 33 teed off full of hope and enthusiasm, and only one player managed to play under their handicap Winner was Neil Gill (even he was surprised) with 22 H/C 39 points, in second place was John Forbes with 22 H/C 36 pts, and third place went to Brendan Cudmore, 14 H/C 34 pts C/B.
Ball winners: Colin Richardson 34 pts C/B, Mark Stephenson 34 pts, Phil Jessen 33 pts, and lucky last Michael O’Sullivan 32 pts C/B.
NTPs - 3rd and 6th: Hamish McPhee, 11th: Mick Dunne, 16th: Michael O’Sullivan. The winner of the chicken (front nine) was Ian ‘Macca’ McIntyre with 16 points, and the winner of the prestigious NAGA went to Rob Davey with 22 points.
In a strange twist of fate, Paul Duff who finished with 20 points, needed to rush off suddenly as there was something wrong with his car battery.
Friday, 2 May, ladies’ 9-hole Par competition.
Played on the back nine holes, this form of competition certainly provides a different perspective and the results were as follows.
Winners: Sarah Williamson 33 H/C +1 C/B, Roschelle Harrison 32 H/C +.
Ball winners: Jack Hurley 0, Noreen Treyvaud -1.
NTPs - 11th: Karen Sherry, 16th: Nic Morgan.
Saturday, 3 May, all gender stroke, and for the men, Monthly Medal.
Playing off the blue markers for the men, out of the 47 golfers who played, there was only one golfer who managed to play under their handicap, and this was the one and only Paul Duff.
It does go to show three days is a long time in a person’s golfing career – just the Thursday prior, Paul came in last, but something must have happened as playing in the last group on Saturday he fell over the finishing line to win by one shot from Mick Dunne.
Overall results: Paul Duff (medal winner) 19 H/C nett 71, Mick Dunne 17 H/C nett 72, Jonas Bush 31 H/C nett 73 C/B, Kevin Reed 26 H/C nett 73, Heath Thompson 12 H/C nett 74.
Ball winners: Joshua Carr nett 75 C/B, Ian Browne nett 75 C/C, Rod Brown nett 75 C/B, Don Grimes nett 75, Mo O’Shea nett 75 C/B, Nifty Nev Blewitt nett 75 C/B.
NTPs - 3rd: Ian Browne, 6th: Tony Chalwell, 11th: Kevin Reed, 16th: Hamish McPhee.
The Bright Golf Guru’s interesting golf fact of the week: the first golf balls were made from feathers wrapped in leather.
These balls flew much further than the balls that came after.
They were used until the mid-1800s when they began being made out of wood.
Mixed results for Panthers against Rangers
ROUND two of the NEBA season saw local club Porepunkah Panthers head to Targoora Park in Wangaratta to take on the Rangers across the grades.
UNDER 12
In just their second game for the season, the junior Panthers team proved too strong for the Wangaratta Rangers in a fun fast match.
Porepunkah started the first innings strongly with Rylan Harris and Murphy Tripp both hitting safely to get on base, and both scoring thanks to safe hits from the combination of Zoe Casswell and Hannah Casswell.
The Panthers then showed great fielding, allowing Wangaratta only one run with Rylan Harris taking a nice catch at shortstop and Murphy Tripp throwing the runner out at first.
The second innings was a big one for the Panthers - Yuna Meddings, Zac Gould, Byron Smith, Ryland McCormack, Casy Pronk and Zac Podubinski all hit safely and rounded the bases to score.
Panther Murphy Tripp started with a nice two-base hit for Porepunkah, followed by Jimmi Jagger Forster who hit safely for his second safe hit of the game to bring him across the plate.
Panther Hunter Harris was solid behind the plate, taking the catching duties for the day.
Final score: Porepunkah 10 def Wangaratta 8.
UNDER 15
The Panthers’ under 15 team took on Wangaratta Black and got off to a good start with the bat.
They scored three runs on the back of single base hits by Paige Anders and Rory Thomson and a walk to Eamon Thomson, with Wes Booth ‘taking one for the team’ as well.
Wangaratta responded with five runs on the back of two hits to take the lead.
The Panthers captured the lead back 6-5 with Leo Harrison finding his way on to base, Ayla McCallum receiving a walk, Paige Anders finding a single and Rory Clarke hitting a big triple.
The Panthers were held scoreless at the top of the third with only Tasmyn Clunie getting on base with a hit by pitched ball.
Once in the field next, the Panthers could only get two of the necessary three outs before time ran out and the scores reverted back to even innings when the game was 6-6.
The team had a great day out showing improvement across the board.
Next Sunday is the first home game of the season when the Panthers host the North Albury Bears.
C GRADE
In another close game, the Panthers C grade just ran out of time against Wangaratta as they hit the lead only to
have the game reverted back.
In the first innings, Panther Jarrod McCormack hit safely to reach first base, stole his way around and was brought home by Jason Browns safe hit to centre field.
Wangaratta responded with two runs - pitcher Sam Bourne started on the mound and struck out one batter, gave up zero hits and walked seven batters.
With the Panthers down 2-1, they flipped the game on its head and drove in six runs, with safe hits going to Randy Skippen, Jason Brown and Geordie McEwan.
Matthew Shennan, in his comeback game, stole all bases to bring himself home in a highlight of the day.
Wangaratta then scored seven runs, with the innings saved by pitcher Wade Pronk who struck out two batters.
The third innings had the Panthers score three runs, with Jason Brown having the perfect day with the bat going three hits from three at bats.
The Panthers had Wangaratta one out and were heading for a win, but time ran out and the game reverted back to give Wangaratta the win 9-7.
B GRADE
There was strong hitting by the Panthers, but they fell short 10-12 to Wangaratta on Sunday.
The first innings had coach Randy Skippen receive a walk to get on base, this was followed by Jamie
Jellof singling to centre field, before James Hughes hit beautifully to score the two runners.
The Panthers only allowed Wangaratta to score one run, with pitcher Luca Barthelmes forcing the batters to hit into the ground allowing the infielders to get the outs.
The second innings had Panthers Lachie Rosser hit one out of the park for a solo home run, followed by some smart batting from Mason Anders who got himself on first.
Paige Anders then hit a great two base bomb to bring in Mason Anders in for a run then managed to steal her way to third and then home.
Leading 5-1 in the top of the third, Scott McCallum sent the next pitch over the rightfield fence for a solo home run, scoring the only run of the dig.
Wangaratta then chipped away scoring eight runs in the next innings to take the lead 9-7.
In the Panthers’ last innings, they fought hard and scored three runs to take the lead 10-9, but Wangaratta were able to score three runs to take the win.
A GRADE
The A grade Panthers had another tough match, falling 12-4 to the Wangaratta Rangers, with a couple of great catches by the opposition deciding the match.
The first innings had Panther Dean Anders hitting safely to centrefield,
followed by Luca Barthelmes who also hit safely.
Damon Barker then bought one run in with a nicely timed outfield hit. Starting on the mound for the Panthers, Heath Anders did a great job giving the infield two or three chances to get the outs, unfortunately they could not capitalise on the chances.
Panther Lachie Rosser provided the pop in the middle of Panthers’ batting lineup, and led with two runs batted in. Not to be outdone, Adam Rosser went two for three at the plate to lead the Panthers in hits.
Another highlight was Liam ‘Wild Thing’ Quinton making his pitching debut for the Panthers – the fastest arm at the club, he troubled the opposition batters with his pace striking out three.
Paul Meddings was brilliant in the outfield for the Panthers, tracking down and taking three impressive catches for the match.
The Panthers are looking forward to their first home match of the year –all are welcome to head down to the diamond at the Porepunkah Recreation Reserve for a look and to support the local club this coming Sunday, 11 May.
Games start at 9am (juniors) followed by C grade, B grade, and the A grade, which starts at 2pm with a 4.30pm finish.
Mount Beauty.
WINNERS AND LOSERS
YARRAWONGA
GOALS: YARRAWONGA: L. Williams 4, N. Fothergill 3, D. Howe 2, M. Casey 1. MYRTLEFORD: B. Ricardi 4, K. Agosta 2, J. East 1, B. Calogero 1, J. Muraca 1. BEST: YARRAWONGA: J. Payne, D. Howe, N. Fothergill, W. Wheeler, J. Urquhart, N. Irvine. MYRTLEFORD: R. Smith, J. East, S. Curtis, B. Ricardi, J. Muraca, H. McKerral.
Wodonga Raiders 6.4 (40) drew with Wangaratta Rovers 5.10 (40)
GOALS: WODONGA RAIDERS H. Gray 3, R. Finnimore 1, N. Andrews
1, B. Saunders 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS C. Johnson 2, C. Breheny
2, H. Mullane 1. BEST: Wodonga Raiders: H. Gray, R. Frazer, B. Wilson, J. Tinkler, H. White, Z. Harris. WANGARATTA ROVERS: C. Breheny, A. Direen, C. Lugg, J. Marek, C. Johnson. Wangaratta 7.10 (52) def Wodonga 4.4 (28)
GOALS: WANGARATTA: H. Barry 2, A. Jayet 1, L. Sims 1, E. Clayton
1, C. Bott 1, K. Hadley 1. WODONGA: C. Johnson 2, C. Brookes 1, J. Hodgkin 1, B. Flower 1. BEST: WANGARATTA: A. Jayet, W. Petersen, C. Bott, O. Boyle, H. Barry, H. Laverty. WODONGA: J. Hymus, J. Dove, M. Prenter, M. Hack, K. Venturoni, E. Kennedy.
Lavington 12.12 (84) def North Albury 2.2 (14)
GOALS: LAVINGTON: I. Robertson 4, C. Hall 2, N. Edmunds 2, C. Way 1, Z. Klemke 1, R. Robinson 1, A. Toohey 1. NORTH ALBURY T. Frazer 1, H. Westmoreland 1. BEST: LAVINGTON: C. Hall, D. Meani, T. Goonan, I. Robertson, M. Plunkett, C. Webb. NORTH ALBURY: O. Ackerly, Z. Graham, K. Murray, C. O’Rourke, N. Pigdon, W. Harrington. Yarrawonga 6.5 (41) def Myrtleford 3.5 (23)
GOALS: YARRAWONGA: S. Lawrence 3, C. McCarty 2, L. Eales 1. MYRTLEFORD: N. Nannipieri 1, S. Colson 1, J. Novak 1. BEST: YARRAWONGA: S. Bigger, A. Jaques, t. baxter, C. McCarty, S. Lawrence, J. Ibbott. MYRTLEFORD: C. Howden, O. Benson, T. Cooper, H. Duggan, Z. Carroll, J. Notarianni. Albury vs Corowa Rutherglen: PENDING
11.4 (70)
BEST: LAVINGTON: J. Hockley, P. Flood, H. Barber, A. Butler, D. Finnimore, B. Nicholson. NORTH ALBURY J. Spurr, C. Fisher, O. Ackerly, M. Norman, K. Duncan, T. Field.
*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.
A GRADE:
Tarrawingee 40 drew with Goorambat 40
Whorouly 57 def Benalla All Blacks 31
Milawa 69 def Bright 41
Greta 47 def King Valley 31
B GRADE: Tarrawingee 43 def Goorambat 30
Whorouly 75 def Benalla All Blacks 12
Milawa 54 def Bright 41; Greta 61 def King Valley 26
B RESERVE: Tarrawingee 44 def Goorambat 21
Whorouly 47 def Benalla All Blacks 39
Milawa 34 def by Bright 56; Greta 53 def King Valley 18
C GRADE: Tarrawingee 33 def Goorambat 28
Whorouly 30 def Benalla All Blacks 24; Greta 38 drew with King Valley 38
15&UNDER: Tarrawingee 54 def Goorambat 8
Whorouly 25 def by Benalla All Blacks 35 Greta 40 def King Valley 29
ROUND7
SAT, MAY 10
WHOROULY vs GRETA
GOORAMBAT vs MILAWA
BRIGHT vs NTH WANGARATTA
BENALLA vs MOYHU
BONNIE DOON vs TARRAWINGEE
KING VALLEY - BYE
GOALS: LAVINGTON: S. Driscoll 3, C. Sanson 3, E. Perryman 1, J. Driscoll 1, W. Glanvill 1, A. Cook 1. NORTH ALBURY: H. Weaven 3, T. Broomhead 1, L. Taylor 1, K. Flack 1, J. McKenzie 1, J. Reynolds 1, A. Crelley 1, J. Hayes 1. BEST: LAVINGTON: E. Perryman, S. Driscoll, A. Bennett, N. Newton, J. Driscoll, C. Douglas. NORTH ALBURY: J. Hayes, J. Reynolds, L. Taylor, K. Flack, I. Campbell, J. Mooney. LAVINGTON 3.1 5.2 9.3 10.5.65 NORTH ALBURY 1.1 3.4 7.6 10.10.70
WODONGA RAIDERS 2.0 3.3 5.5 5.11.41 WANGARATTA
GOALS: WODONGA RAIDERS: C. Rich 2, B. Hernan 1, N. Clarke 1, B. Jones 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: A. McCarthy 4, E. Dayman 3, L. O’Brien 3, W. Christie 2, S. Comensoli 2, S. Booth 1, N. Cooper 1, H. McMonigle 1, C. Thompson 1.
BEST: WODONGA RAIDERS: B. O’Neill, B. St John, C. Rich, I. Kotzur, A. Pocock, W. Fordham. WANGARATTA ROVERS: W. Christie, N. Scholte, L. O’Brien, A. McCarthy, E. Dayman, C. Ledger.
WANGARATTA 3.1 7.2 11.6 13.11.89
WODONGA 3.2 7.4 9.6 10.8.68
GOALS: WANGARATTA: J. Clarke 3, X. Laverty 2, P. Heatley 2, J. Craven 2, W. O’keefe 1, H. Gottschling 1, H. Hewitt 1, B. Melville 1. WODONGA: N. Spiteri 2, B. Parkin 2, A. Jorgensen 2, T. O’Sullivan 1, R. Bourke 1, O. Greenhill 1, K. Mimmo 1. BEST: WANGARATTA: C. Knowles, B. Melville, J. Clarke, M. Bordignon, H. Gottschling, J. Craven. WODONGA: J. Yelland, A. Jorgensen, C. Morrison, O. Greenhill, M. Soroczynski, Z. Nugent.
ALBURY 3.3 6.8 7.11
GOALS: ALBURY: J. Pitt 3, M. Walker 2, R. Garthwaite 2, H. Cameron 2, K. Heiner-Hennessy 1, E. Ziebarth 1, L. Conlan 1, T. Miller 1. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: K. Bradtke 4, D. Hope 3, B. Morton 2, L. Mccarthy 1, F. Osborne 1, E. Amery 1, D. Clancy 1. BEST: ALBURY: B. Kelly, J. Pitt, M. Walker, E. Ziebarth, J. Gaynor, J. Kelly. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: C. Schutt, D. Melksham, D. Hope, K. Bradtke, N. Richards, J. Butson.
Wangaratta 15 17 (107)
Wodonga 3 2 (20)
BEST: WANGARATTA: J. Tweedale, T. Gorman, H. Burgan, C. Ross, J. Roberts, N. O’Kane. WODONGA: F. Kosmina, T. Marx, J. Stone, R. Thompson, A. Lord, G. McKimmie.
BEST: WODONGA RAIDERS J. Casey, B. Jerram, F. Jensen, C. Smith, C. St John, B. Knights. WANGARATTA ROVERS: H. McCarthy, M. Booth, H. Lloyd, T. Vincent, S. Rourke, S. Allan. Yarrawonga 3 2 (20)
Myrtleford 21 27 (153)
BEST: YARRAWONGA: B. Symes, M. Grinter, D. Mullins, J. Eales, R. Mulquiney, B. Keenes. MYRTLEFORD: J. Gribbin, D. Bren, A. McPherson, A. Wickes, N. Turner, L. Young. Albury: PENDING Corowa Rutherglen: PENDING ROUND5
SATURDAY, MAY 10
WODONGA vs YARRAWONGA
NORTH ALBURY vs RAIDERS
ALBURY vs LAVINGTON
MYRTLEFORD vs COROWA RUTHERGLEN
GOALS: TARRAWINGEE: N. Gorman 3, C. Penney 1, S. Thompson 1, A. Cook 1, X. Norden 1, J. Hoggan 1. Goorambat: D. Haebich 6, R. Goodley 3, M. Ryan 2, B. Wapling 1, J. Costigan 1, S. Briggs 1, B. Stepien 1, B. Purcell 1. BEST: TARRAWINGEE: A. Amery, S. Piper, N. Redley, S. Thompson, X. Norden, T. Barnes. GOORAMBAT: V. Butler, M. Ryan, B. Reaburn, S. Gladstone, C. McCoy, R. Wilson.
GOALS: MOYHU: B. Zimmermann 4, D. McDonald 2, J. Hansted 1, N. Stewart 1. NORTH WANGARATTA: C. Smith 9, T. Nanson 4, J. Devine 2, D. Bradley 2, T. Schulze 1, J. Nanson 1, T. O’Brien 1. BEST: MOYHU: B. Zimmermann, J. Hansted, J. Preston, L. Suffield, H. Bell, C. Gibson. NORTH WANGARATTA: T. Schulze, J. Nanson, T. Nanson, T. O’Brien, R. Adamo, D. Bradley.
WHOROULY 4.5 8.12 16.17 24.18.162
BENALLA 0.0 0.2 0.5 3.6.24
GOALS: WHOROULY: M. Newton 13, J. Pethybridge 2, J. Smith 2, G. White 2, R. Eden 2, B. Harrington 1, M. Scott 1, C. Wood 1. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: B. Marlborough 1, J. Walker 1, D. Bell 1. BEST: WHOROULY: M. Newton, J. Smith, R. Eden, M. Scott, M. Vescio, D. Hoy-Maroney. BENALLA ALL Blacks: A. Hillaire, D. Button, J. Walker, F. Weeks, D. Bell, D. Nero. GRETA - - - 14.15.99 KING VALLEY - - - 7.10.52
GOALS: GRETA: C. Crawford 5, J. McClounan 4, B. Newbold 2, L. Kennett 1, J. Bell 1, T. Arrowsmith 1. King Valley: J. O’Connor 2, S. Jansen 2, B. Wheeler 1, D. Cavalcante 1, J. Finger 1. BEST: GRETA: J. McClounan, J. Bell, C. Crawford, C. Green, T. Fursdon, L. Hadden. KING VALLEY: D. Young, S. Jansen, C. Leslie, D. Cavalcante, S. Bettio, C. Swinburne.
Moyhu 6 7 (43)
North Wangaratta 13 4 (82)
BEST: MOYHU: N. Gamble,
Robinson.
Gephart,
Barbour,
Burns. BENALLA
Nicholson,
Amos,
Nicholson,
Marlborough, B. Lepenik, J. Smith.
& ProfessionalConsultants Guide
(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
Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors
25 Clyde Street Myrtleford
Phone: 5751 1995
Email admin@paynterassoc.com.au
www.paynterandassociates.com.au
Hearing Services
29 Clyde Street Myrtleford Plus Standish Street Surgery & Bright Allied Health For appointments call 5752 2817
SPORT
Winter lawn bowling returns
THE XXXX Winter Bowls Competition rolls into town on Saturday, 10 May with Myrtleford hosting Bright and Yackandandah hosting Chiltern.
All four clubs are excited about providing opportunities for many newer players of lawn bowls to get a taste of two bowl triples, in a fun but competitive format not bound by Ovens and Murray pennant bowls, but with far more exibility as agreed to by all clubs.
Some of those exible guidelines include swapping players from being a lead bowler to trying their hand as skippers halfway through a game, and players representing the other clubs when the available numbers
don’t match on any given Saturday.
Wearing a club uniform is preferred but not essential for new players to the game who wish to try out lawn bowls.
Free coaching is available to all at the clubs.
The XXXX Winter Bowls Competition is not played for premiership points but to give all players a go - if they’re not towing the caravan north for the winter.
Foremost in mind for the organisers is also to provide some cash ow among smaller clubs in winter, when many of the overheads of running a club remain a burden on the books.
Obviously, the camaraderie
and the chance to continue playing throughout the year is an important mental and physical bene t for many in the community.
Anyone interested in having a go with the clubs should pop into the participating clubs – Myrtleford, Bright, Yackandandah and Chiltern – as the XXXX Winter Bowls Competition is a great replacement for barefoot bowls, which largely runs from November to March.
From Myrtleford Bowls Club’s experience, many new members are created this way and o en the talent is amazing.
The competition runs from May through to September, with play taking place on Saturdays.
Savoy ready for FA Cup final, fresh off 4-1 triumph over ‘Spurs
■ From back page
A er converting from the spot, Hotspurs thought they were back in the game, but a Richardson strike made the scoreline 3-1 heading into half-time.
A er the break, Myrtleford’s mid eld group li ed in a major way, and Richardson was able to pick up his third with a brilliant piece of solo work.
Vescio said the defensive pressure from his side was incredible.
Rear Unit 4, 4 Ireland Street Bright, Phone: 03 5750 1819 Email: info@tonerandassociates.com.au
Phone Jenny on 57313305 or email jking@nemedia.com.au
“We defended really well and didn’t allow them to be penetrating, but still allowed them to be on the ball,” he said.
“When we got the ball, we were nice and direct, we identi ed a few areas we could get them at.
“We defended quite well, they had more corners than us which is a bit of a weird feeling because we’ve always outnumbered teams with corners this year, so it was good for our team to defend those corners.
“Nathan Gleeson stood up, he came and collected a lot of balls from corners which a good goalkeeper should do.”
The side’s next league match is another table topper clash with Cobram Roar, but the squad is solely focused on the Cup nal.
Myrtleford Savoy take on Albury City for the FA Cup on Saturday, 10 May from 7pm at LaTrobe Ground in Wodonga.
Positive signs for Savoy women
By NATHAN DE VRIES
WHILE they were unable to secure the points in their match with the top side Albury Hotspurs, Savoy’s senior women’s team have managed a feat no other team in the competition accomplished.
For the rst time this year, Hotspurs have conceded a goal, and Myrtleford was the side to do it.
While Savoy went into the long break 0-4 down, a superior performance in the second half saw
Myrtleford defend hard and even strike back through Lily Notarianni.
Best on ground went to goalie Jess Stringer, whose e orts with the gloves repelled countless attempts on goal.
Co-coach Tom Scott said while it wasn’t a win in the books, it shows just how good this side can be.
“Hotspurs was always going to be a challenge as they’re the league leaders and reigning
champions - that said, we knew the game would be tough through the middle of the ground,” he said.
“At half-time we spoke openly about needing to apply a high standard of pressure.
“The second half was a fantastic display of how much our team has developed.
“We were able to win duals across the ground and our defenders played with con dence, and were able to score from a
classy nish from Lily a er some link-up play.
“This made us the only team to score against Hotspurs and the only team to ‘win’ a half against them.
“Will [co-coach Will RobinsonDunn] and I know it’s this type of small step forward which shows us we’re going in the right direction as we’re able to compete with the best.”
Savoy head to Cobram this weekend to take on the Roar.
ONE-ON-ONE: Tom Morrison takes on Albury’s Ryan Kemp.
CHANCE: Josh Zito crosses the ball in.
FANCY FOOTWORK: Matt Richardson keeps two Hotspurs played o the ball in Savoy’s 4-1 thumping of the former top two side.
PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie
Bright caught out by Milawa MATCH REVIEWS
Lions demolish
Benalla All Blacks
By NATHAN DE VRIES
WHOROULY saluted in both football and netball competitions over the weekend against Benalla All Blacks, with a total of six out of seven teams tasting success.
On the football eld, it was an absolute bloodbath on the scoreboard in both grades
The reserves notched up their rst win of the season against the struggling Panthers out t, coming in 26.14 (170) to 0.4 (4).
The match was essentially over by half-time, with the Lions leading by more than 10 goals at the long break.
Whorouly were able to utilise the corridor to great e ect, turning turnovers in their defensive 50 into fast-moving counterattacks.
A total of 12 players kicked a goal for the mighty maroon, led by Dylan Gephart, who booted four majors in a best on ground performance.
In the seniors, the Lions were able to return to the winners list with an emphatic 24.18 (162) to 3.6 (24) win.
The Panthers were kept goalless until the nal term, and while some undisciplined play allowed Benalla to ease the scoreboard woes somewhat, it was a complete and utter domination by Whorouly.
The Lions were able to consistently win the ball out of the middle of the ground, and set up excep-
tionally well behind the contest.
Whorouly’s half back line was on re, with Max Scott taking intercept marks seemingly at will, while Jessie Smith was at his consistent best and Russ Eden on the wing took plenty of territory.
However, best on ground would go to Michael Newton, who was unstoppable up forward.
Newton would nish the day with 13 goals to his name, more than half the total number of goals kicked by Whorouly, putting him in the top ve on the league charts with 27 goals from just three games.
Over on the netball court, the A grade Lions were dominant against Benalla, taking their third win of the season in style, 57-31.
By NATHAN DE VRIES
BRIGHT were unable to repeat the heroics of their last-start win a er a comprehensive 28-goal loss in Milawa on Saturday in A grade netball.
The home side, who had a point to prove a er their recent tie against fellow contender Whorouly, led from start to nish to remind a very even Ovens and King A grade netball competition they are a force to be reckoned with in the 69-41 victory.
Slow starts have troubled Bright in recent matches against strong opposition, and unfortunately for the visitors, the trend continued as a 10-goal di erence was conceded at quarter-time.
Bright were never able to reduce the growing de cit throughout the match, with the match e ectively over when the score reached 3317 at half-time and 52-30 with a quarter to play.
Bright coach Ash Grimes said that her side would learn some lessons from the defeat.
“We didn’t start as strongly as we needed to on Saturday, and it felt like we were chasing the game from the outset,” Grimes said.
“Full credit to Milawathey played an outstanding
match and deserved the win.
“There’s still plenty we can take away from the game – it’s clear we need to focus on our starts and avoid letting the momentum slip away for so long.
“We’ve got a big week of training ahead, and we’re looking forward to bouncing back and putting in a strong performance at home next weekend.”
It was a similar story over on the football eld, with the senior Mountain Men outplayed by Milawa in the second half.
A er sitting evenly at 6.4 (40) apiece at the major break, Milawa managed to kick away late in the day to hand Bright their rst defeat of the season 17.6 (108) to 11.8 (74).
Cy Banks was impressive for the Mountain Men, nishintg with best on ground honours, while Sam and Zander Dalbosco were impressive.
Cooper Thomason booted four goals, taking his season total to 28 from ve matches, third overall in the league.
Bright returns home to Pioneer Park this weekend to host North Wangaratta, with both senior football and A grade netball sides eager to return to the winners list.
The match was set up from the rst quarter, which saw the Lions lead by 10 goals a er 15 minutes.
The lead was extended at every break, with Benalla seemingly having no answers for Whorouly’s defensive pressure, clean ball movement, and accurate shooting.
In other grades, the B graders won 75-12, B reserve got up 47-39, C grade took the win 30-24, while the under 15s went down 25-35.
The Lions are at home to Greta this weekend, and are a legitimate chance in multiple grades of football and netball.
The under 15s kick o all the action at 9.10am, with the reserves kicking o the footy from 12pm.
EAGLE EYE: Katie Ivone shot at 86.36 per cent accuracy during her time in the circle.
COUNTERATTACK: Laura Keighran sends the ball back up the court.
FORWARD FORCE: Michael Newton added 13 goals to his already impressive season tally. PHOTOS: Nathan de Vries
MATCH REVIEWS
Best of the best named for O&M interleague showdown
By NATHAN DE VRIES
IT’S May, which means one thing in the Ovens and Murray Football Netball League – interleague is right around the corner.
Set for Saturday, 24 May, at Wangaratta’s W. J. Findlay Oval, the annual football and netball showdown with Goulburn Valley FNL for the Ash-Wilson Trophy is always a special occasion.
The squad for the senior football side was announced on Thursday, 1 May, featuring 44 of the best the O&M has to o er.
Locally, Myrtleford Saints Bowen Calogero, Tom Cappellari, Jaxon East, Zac Pethybridge, and Riley Smith have all been named in the provisional squad.
Senior interleague coach and Myrtleford player Jake Sharp said it was a talented group of players, with genuine depth across the three lines.
“We’re really happy with the squad,” he said.
“I feel like we’ve got a good balance across all lines and positions, and we’ve definitely got some firepower in there complemented by some good young talent within the league.
“It’s really important to acknowledge form, particularly from the rst three rounds – Rovers and Magpies have obviously played
four games – but players that have been in good form at their clubs, I think the squad’s re ective of that.
“That was probably the key criteria, while also making sure we had balance across all positions and depth in those positions within the squad.”
The squad will have three weekly training sessions in the run up to the interleague clash, with the nal session at W.J. Findlay Oval on Wednesday, 21 May.
Sharp said he was looking forward to seeing who distinguished themselves at the sessions.
“I think in these types of pro-
grams you always nd players that are not smokies but some that really catch your eye, that’s what I’m looking forward to,” he said.
“It’ll be good to see which one of those players in the squad is that scenario that catches my eye and gives themselves an opportunity on 24 May.”
Every club in the league is represented in the 44-man squad, and it will be extremely tough to cut the squad down to the final team who will run out against GVL.
“The clubs have been very good with accommodating this – the challenge was to get at least ve from every squad to get a squad of around 50, and I think we ended up with 44, so we were pretty close to hitting our goal,” Sharp said.
“It’s something that, when I took this job, the passion that Kane [OMFNL general manager Kane Arendarcikas] and Dave [OMFNL chairman David Sinclair] spoke about in regards to interleague led me more down the path of doing it, just knowing that as a coach you’re going to be well resourced and well supported in these endeavours.
“We’re really happy with the level of buy-in from the clubs but also the players themselves.
to really make sure it’s an experience worthwhile for everyone.”
The under 18s football, and open, 17 and under, and 15 and under netball squads will be announced in the coming days.
The interleague clash with GVL is on Saturday, 24 May, at W. J. Findlay Oval.
SENIOR OMFNL FOOTBALL SQUAD
High five for DMB as Hawks blockbuster looms
By DANIEL SAVILLE
A HANDFUL of wins for DederangMount Beauty’s A grade netball team has given them the best possible start to the season after five games of Tallangatta league netball.
On their way to a seemingly straight-forward 60-36 victory in Mount Beauty, the Bombers had to dig a little deeper than planned against a Mitta United side who were competitive all day.
In arguably their toughest match up to date, Dederang-Mount Beauty were pushed for the first fifteen minutes and found an early 9-6 lead at quarter-time, but the scoreline was more reflective of a cold and wet day in winter than a mild and sunny afternoon that players were treated to.
The game progressively opened up from the second quarter onwards as the Bombers started moving the ball down the court with more freedom, building a nine-goal buffer between their opponents.
“Players are giving up their time, giving up a bye week, so you want
Albury: Jacob Conlan, Jake Pitt, Ty Quade. Corowa Rutherglen: Kaelan Bradtke, Darcy Hope, Jedd Longmire, Liam McCarthy, Cody Schutt. Lavington: Jack Costello, Shaun Driscoll, Jesse Hart, Alex Swinnerton. Myrtleford: Bowen Calogero, Tom Cappellari, Jaxon East, Zac Pethybridge, Riley Smith. North Albury: Foster Gardiner, Archer Gardiner, Josh Murphy, Ben Rigoni. Wangaratta: Jackson Clarke, Alex Federico, Parker Heatley, Harrison Hewitt, Xavier Laverty. Wangaratta Rovers: Will Christie, Charles Ledger, Alex McCarthy, Jace McQuade, Charlie Thompson. Wodonga: Reuben Bourke, Noash Bradshaw, Charlie Morrison, Tom O’Sullivan, Matt Wilson. Wodonga Raiders: Nick Bracher, Indhi Kotzur, Beau O’Neill, Corey Rich, Archer Scammell, Brad St John. Yarrawonga: Ben Coghill, Ned Pendergast.
“Disappointing”: Saints falter against Pigeons
By NATHAN DE VRIES
IT was a heart-breaking second half in the senior football clash between Myrtleford and Yarrawonga, with the Saints squandering a vegoal half-time lead to go down by 10 points.
After a flying start to the match, Yarrawonga were able to claw their way back into the contest through repeat forward 50 entries, eventually stunning the Saints 10.14 (74) to Myrtleford’s 9.10 (64).
A 16-point quarter time lead blew out to 23 by the half, and when Jaxon East slotted the rst goal of the second half, Myrtleford were up and about.
However, the Pigeons would respond emphatically, kicking the next six goals unanswered to manufacture a 39-point turnaround.
Myrtleford coach Craig Millar said it was a tough result to swallow given how well they’d played early doors.
“It was really disappointing, particularly because we worked really hard to get ourselves into a position at half-time to set the game up,” he said.
“We thought the third quarter was clearly the quarter that troubled us when they had a number of scoring shots and kicked four goals to one.
“We’ve been in positions a few times this year where we’ve established a reasonable margin, not an excessive one, and we just haven’t been able to protect that and continue to score from it.
“We’re going to have to look at that internally, our scoring data was down too, so we’ve got a bit to work on, but it was de nitely a game that slipped away from us, and we got the result we didn’t want.”
The senior Saints will want to work hard on the track through the week to be ready for their next outing, a home game against the extremely competitive Corowa Rutherglen Kangaroos.
Despite only having the one win to their name, the Roos have been in the conversation in each of their matches, most recently their two-point loss to Albury.
“They’re a real threat, there’s no two ways about that,” Millar said.
“They were super against Yarrawonga last week – I went over and watched them play – I haven’t seen the vision of them against Albury but they were five goals up at three quarter time, so they’ve
got some really good players.
“They’ve been in super form, it’s a really even competition and you can’t a ord to take your foot o the throttle to remain competitive.
“We’re going to have our work cut out and we need to prepare well.”
In other football grades, the reserves picked up a huge win 21.27 (153) to 3.2 (20), while the thirds fell 3.5 (23) to 6.5 (41).
It was a similarly disappointing story for the A grade netballers, who fell to the Pigeons 50-60 a er being just two goals down at three quarter time.
The match was an arm-wrestle for the rst 45 minutes, going goal for goal throughout the rst three terms, with neither team able to put consecutive strings of goals on the board before their opponent fought back into it.
Yarrawonga started to double down on their defensive pressure in the nal term, and managed to turn the ball and send it up the court, with a ve-minute passage of play early in the fourth seeing the Pigeons outscore the Saints 7-2.
Myrtleford tried to claw away at the margin, but it was too little, too late, with the A grade Saints now sitting seventh overall with a 1-3 record.
They take on second-placed team Corowa Rutherglen at home this weekend.
In other netball results, B grade fell 19-66, C grade got up 43-35, the 17 and under side won 48-32, and the 15 and under team had a massive win 47-22.
The third term was a close replica of the second as far as the scoreboard was concerned, but then DMB exploded and Mitta could not handle the heat on the game, with a 21 goal to 10 final term proving their attacking end is capable of converting scores in a hurry.
Bombers coach Alex Dyde was expecting a tough game and was pleased with the outcome.
“It was a good game for both sides and we’ve had a few weeks where we’ve been able to really push away at the end,” Dyde said.
“We’ve been doing a little work on our ability to get the ball out of the defensive end quickly and that worked much better yesterday than the past few weeks.”
Despite the undefeated winning streak, Dyde knows that a big challenge will be just around the corner in the form of league powerhouse Kiewa-Sandy Creek, who had a rare loss to fellow contenders Chiltern last week.
“We know Kiewa (Sandy Creek), their combinations and plays well, but they obviously present with a lot of talent,” Dyde said about this week’s opponent.
“This week we will work on some attacking movement in anticipation of some tall defenders.
“They’ll be hungry for a win after their loss this week so we expect they’ll come out firing.
“The key will be to stay close on the scoreboard and try to push in front for the win - if we let them get too far ahead, it’ll be a tough fight to come back from.”
In senior football, Dederang-Mount Beauty were more competitive in general play and on the scoreboard, but were defeated by Mitta United by 96 points, 6.7 (43) to 21.13 (139).
The final margin was heading well beyond three figures with differences of 72 (half-time) and 111 (three quarter time), before the Bombers had their best quarter for the year, kicking four goals to Mitta’s one in the final quarter, which should give them some momentum before a difficult away assignment against Kiewa-Sandy Creek this Saturday.
TOUGH RESULTS: Evie Hughes and the A grade Saints fell to Yarrawonga by 10 goals a er a lacklustre final term. PHOTO: Marc Bongers
squad for the interleague clash with GVL. PHOTO: Janet Watt
