Alpine Division 100424

FANTASTIC FITNESS

Lions give back

THE Lions Club of Bright have donated $4000 for cancer research, motivated by a team of cyclists who rode throughout the region last month raising funds for a rare ovarian cancer.

Called the ‘Ride for Research’, a team of 29 riders and their support staff were stationed in Bright for five days in March, cycling across the alpine region to raise money for research into juvenile granulsoa cell tumours. Bright Lions hosted a dinner at their headquarters for the Ride for Research

Service club donate to cyclists’ cancer cause S i l b d t t y li t ’

BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@ nemedia.com.au

team during their stay, at which the Lions and the Rotary Club of Bright each donated $500 to their cause. The Rotary club also donated a $500 supermarket voucher.

Following a Lions committee meeting Brian Kelly said the club decided to donate a further $4000 to Ride for Research, motivated by the rarity of granulosa cell tumours and the lack of funding for research.

“On behalf of the Bright community, we decided to do something about it,” he said.

Ride for Research organisers Peter and Claire Reaburn thanked the club for their donation and said the community had welcomed their efforts – specifically mentioning the Lions, Rotary, the Bright U3a Cycling Group and the Tasman Holiday Park. As well as support from

the service clubs, the cycling team had been hosted by the Bright U3a for an afternoon tea.

Ms Reaburn said they received a voucher from a local supermarket, the Star Hotel had allowed them the free use of a function room, and the caravan park had given them a discount.

“The fact that we got so much community support was so impressive and made the whole event enjoyable,” she said.

The ride had initially

aimed to raise $200,000 for research into juvenile granulosa cell tumours at the Hudson Institute of Medical Research in Melbourne.

As of Monday they have reached $207,000, and have extended their goal to raising $224,000.

Ms Reaburn said the ride was far better than they had expected, with camaraderie and support quickly developing between the 29 riders and the five support staff

“The riders loved the ride and many of them talked about coming back themselves and with their

families,” she said.

Ms Reaburn also wished to remind readers of the symptoms of ovarian cancer, which can often be mistaken for other ailments.

Symptoms include unexplained fatigue, pelvic or abdominal pain, trouble eating or feeling full quickly, menstrual changes, feeling the need to urinate urgently or often, bloating, back pain and unexpected changes in bowel habits.

To donate to the Ride for Research go to https:// www.rocinc.org.au/ride-forresearch/.

(From left) Sue Miller, Sarah Nevin, Maureen Ryland and Annette Johnston were a part of the large class at Porepunkah’s new outdoor fitness equipment on Monday.

MYRTLEFORD’S Ablett Pavilion will be getting a million dollar upgrade this year after Alpine Shire Council awarded the contract at last month’s meeting.

The contract was awarded to Foursite Pty Ltd for the lump sum price of $1,392,826 for the construction of the Myrtleford Ablett Pavilion Upgrade.

The Ablett Pavilion is part of the RC McNamara Reserve and is a valued community facility, particularly as the home of the Myrtleford Alpine Saints Football and Netball Club.

The Ablett Pavilion and RC McNamara Reserve Oval are also designated as a Bushfire Place of Last Resort for bushfire emergency events.

The recommendation before council reported it was previously identified that upgrades and modifications to the facility were required to continue to provide essential services and provisions

BY LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE LAndersonByrne@ nemedia.com.au

to the wider community at Ablett Pavilion.

The McNamara Reserve Committee of Management directly sought funding from Black Summer Bushfire Recovery (BSBR) program issued by the Commonwealth Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources, in May 2021, to fund much needed upgrades to the Ablett Pavilion.

The Commonwealth Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources as part of the BSBR nominated council to administer the funding through the provision of project management services as well as control of the funding by way of administration of the payments for works completed.

Issues raised in regards to the project were noted in the report as primarily around timeline.

Funding for this project, under the BSBR program, requires completion of all works, final acquittal and submission of an independent audit report before March, 31 2025.

Achievement of these grant commitments requires that construction is not delayed, and the contractor will be required to work with user groups of the Ablett Pavilion to ensure disruption is minimised.

Director of assets, Alan Rees, said this is the second phase of an original major upgrade over a decade ago, but there will still be some “unfinished business” following this latest round of works.

“We’ve all been struck with increasing costs of delivery, construction, labour, so we were unable to complete the entire scope of what that aspiration was,” he said.

“We’ve invested in design work so in future years when construction funding opportunities emerge we’ll keep our eyes open to complete that final bit, but this will be a significant enhancement.”

McNamara Reserve Committee president Bob McNamara said the new upgrade is a long time coming since the last upgrade in 2010.

“It should be something that sets the building up for the next 30 or 40 years so we’re definitely looking forward to it,” he said.

“A key reason for the upgrade is making the whole facility financially viable and sustainable so when you can get funding it’s good to use it properly.

“It will give it lots more flexibility for the type of functions and the quality of functions able to be held at the pavilion and also the user groups will have something pretty special they can be proud of.”

Weather, holidays drives Bright’s cycling surge

By BRODIE EVERIST

CYCLISTS are flocking to Bright this April as part of a common seasonal influx, with bikers looking to enjoy the autumn weather and partake of local amenities.

Stephanie Makrikostas, manager of retail and inventory at a Bright bicycle store, said April is one of their busiest times of the year, with cyclists attracted to the picturesque surroundings and the diverse range of biking types available.

“You can be a very beginner and go to Porepunkah, Wandi and it’ll be really flat; or you can be more adventurous, go into the mountain bike park for those that are into all the adrenaline; and then you’ve also got all the road riding, so you can go up to Hotham, Falls Creek, even Mount Buffalo,” she said.

Bright and District Chamber of Commerce president Marcus Warner said a number of businesses encourage the use of rail trails and wineries’ visits, contributing to April as a peak time for recreational cyclists.

“They’re here to enjoy the recreational break, and this time of the year is perfect because the heat of the summer isn’t so bad,” he said.

Mr Warner said the rail trails are particularly good for attracting rec-

reational cyclists that spend at local businesses.

“These people are staying in accommodation for a number of days, they’re eating out at a number of restaurants, they’re getting their morning coffee, they’re visiting wineries,” he said.

“Families can ride the rail trail and the distances between the various economic centres, like Myrtleford to Bright, are just enough for

LIONS RAFFLE UNDERWAY

By BRODIE EVERIST

THE Lions Club of Bright are holding their annual charity raffle, to be drawn on Bright’s Autumn Festival Gala Day, May 4. Lions executive member Brian Kelly said there are 2000 tickets up for grabs at $2 each.

As of Thursday last week, they had already sold more than 1000 tickets.

“I expect we will sell right up until Gala Day, but I expect that we’ll also sell all the tickets,” Mr Kelly said.

There are two shopping vouchers to be won.

people to ride in a day.”

This year there is no overlap between school holidays in New South Wales and Victoria, spreading out visitation to the area, according to Mr Warner.

Matt White, cycling project manager at Tourism North East, said cycling is of “immense importance” for the visitor economy throughout the North East, with a big influx of riders currently seeking to make

the most of warmer weather before winter.

“We have cyclists that come from all over Australia and, in fact, the world because of the quality of the cycling infrastructure and the tracks and trails,” he said.

“What that offers the local environment is visitors who are likely to stay longer, are spending more and do more during their trip than the average tourist.”

Mr White said cycling is becoming a part of visitor holidays in the region, even for those who don’t consider themselves cyclists.

“People are choosing to use rail trails as ways of getting to and from other experiences – food and wine, great restaurants, wineries, breweries,” he said.

Warrandyte resident Ian Macreadie was staying in Bright with his wife for three nights last week while other members of his family were staying at a caravan park in Porepunkah.

When he spoke with the Myrtleford Times/Alpine Observer last Thursday he and his family had ridden on the rail trail from Porepunkah to Bright, and were planning to continue to Wandiligong.

“Lovely facilities and lovely scenery – it’s a beautiful track,” he said.

Women and girls a focus of new policy

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

ALPINE Shire Council last month made moves towards improving access to, and the use of, community sports infrastructure for women and girls, with its draft Fair Access Policy now up for public exhibition.

The recommendation before council at the March meeting comes after The Office for Women in Sport and Recreation, Sport and Recreation Victoria, and the Victorian Health Promotion Foundation (VicHealth) developed their Fair Access Policy Roadmap.

The roadmap states from July, 1 2024, all Victorian councils will need to have gender equitable access and use policies in place to be considered eligible to receive infrastructure funding.

These policies will ensure that women and girls can fully participate in and enjoy the benefits of community sport, with fair opportunity and access to their local facilities.

Money raised will go towards assisting a local school trip to Germany, an annual $2000 scholarship for local young people; and it will replace funds from a recent $4000 donation to a cancer charity.

Mr Kelly said the tickets are currently being sold outside the Bright IGA on Ireland Street from 10am to 2pm from Wednesday to Saturday.

First prize is a voucher to the value of $1000 for any supermarket or service station of the winner’s choice and second prize is for a similar voucher priced at $500.

As of next week the stall will be selling tickets every day.

North East Skate series at Myrtleford this Saturday

By BRODIE EVERIST

THE Myrtleford instalment of the North East Skate Park Series is on this Saturday, April 13, at the Myrtleford Skate Park in Cundy Park, Standish Street.

Made up of 15 different events, the skate series travels across the North East to a range of skate parks where competitors show their skills in a friendly, supportive environment.

The events are run by Al’s Skate

Co, a Wodonga-based skating retailer and teaching business, with support from Alpine Shire Council and funding from youth development program Freeza.

Al’s Skate Co owner Al Taylor said the events are about encouraging participation and they are open to all skill levels.

“We’ve got some really skilful and quite skilled riders, and we’ve also got relative beginners as well,” he said.

“It’s really about encouraging everyone to take part, and the ones that want to take it super serious they’re battling out for the series champion.

“But we also make room and really encourage those that might be doing their first ever skate comp to get out.”

The events are open to skating, BMX, scooters and roller skating.

Competitors in each age division get two 45-second runs across the entire skate park to show their skills.

The best run will count to their score.

Mr Taylor said registrations for the Myrtleford event begin at 10:30am, with the competition to begin at 11am.

He said they will begin with the scooter competition first, followed by BMX, roller skate then skating.

The Bright Instalment of the series will take place in May, and the competition will also run in Mount Beauty in November.

The report said this draft policy intends to deliver equitable access to council owned or managed under delegation sports infrastructure across the Alpine Shire, helping to level the playing field for women and girls in community sport.

Councillor Simon Kelley said he was looking forward to seeing this policy in action.

“Inclusive facilities and having facilities that everyone feels comfortable to use to enjoy the sports or the passions they’re interested in is incredibly important to us,” he said.

“This kind of policy means we’ll be eligible for funding to address these needs.

“Sometimes it’s a sporting facility not built that long ago that wasn’t well considered for all the types of users so going back to address those, I really look forward to that.”

The policy will be up for public exhibition until early May on engage.alpineshire.vic.gov.au.

Feedback from the public exhibition period will be considered for inclusion in the final policy prior to the policy being adopted by council at a future meeting.

WHEELING AROUND: Ian and Jo Macreadie were enjoying a holiday in Bright last week and, like many, were riding on the rail trails to see the surrounding towns. PHOTO: Brodie Everist

A REWARDING RAFFLE: Bright Lions member Lory Torriero was selling raffle tickets at the stall last week.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

Myrtleford to get pedestrian bridge

Riders trading kms for cancer cure

By BRODIE EVERIST

CYCLISTS at the Alpine Hotel were almost ready for their third leg of a 1000km journey across Victoria last Wednesday morning when the Myrtleford Times/Alpine Observer popped in.

Many were clipping on helmets and making sure their bikes were ready for the gruelling ride up Mount Hotham, but they’re used to steep inclines –last year they rode across new Zealand’s notoriously mountainous South Island.

“We actually love hills - that’s what we look for,” ride organiser Aaron Hester said.

It’s all for a good cause – the ‘Velo de Vic’ aims to raise a total of $300,000 to be split between the Children’s Cancer Institute and research into a rare brain tumour.

The cycling event occurs annually as part of the Live for Livy Foundation, a body founded by Mr Hester and his late wife following the death of their own daughter to liver cancer.

According to Mr Hester, their annual rides have raised 2.3 million since they began in 2016.

By BRODIE EVERIST

ALPINE Shire councillors voted to award a contract for the construction of a pedestrian and cyclist bridge over the Ovens River in Myrtleford at their meeting last month.

According to council, the long-awaited bridge will provide an extension to the existing shared path on Standish Street to connect it with the Nimmo Reserve on the south side of the Ovens River.

The repot to council said the

existing shared path in Standish Street turns down Apex Lane and those continuing to Nimmo Reserve have to proceed along the roadside and use the road bridge to cross the river.

Councillor Ron Janas said the pedestrian bridge will be a great asset for the community.

“If we weren’t sitting at plastic tables here, I’d probably get up on a wooden table and do a little tap dance because it’s taken so long,” he said.

“This is a greatly-needed facility for the people of our town

and particularly the young people and young mums that are now using the river loop trail coming in from town.”

The $540,850 contract to North East Civil Construction is significantly lower than the project’s $750,000 of available funding, which was provided by council and Bushfire Recovery Victoria.

Responding to a question from Cr Janas about the excess funding, director of assets Alan Rees said council would look to enhance the entire environment

READY

“Our first one was 11 riders from Coonawarra to Melbourne,” he said.

“We raised $50,000 and from then on it’s just grown and grown.”

On Monday the group started their ride at 6:30am at the Royal Children’s Hospital then on Tuesday they left Mansfield for Bright.

They planned to reach Omeo on Wednesday, then they were to head to Metung, then Moe and finish in Cowes on Sunday.

Their route retraces a 2008 family holiday taken by riders David and Tanya Preston, whose son Alex was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive brain cancer only weeks after returning from the holiday.

“Day one was challenging,” Mr Hester said.

“From Yea through basically to Mansfield, we would have had what we consider tropical-type rain for about an hour.

“That section would have had probably no less than seven flats, torrential rain and Easter day traffic.”

The group consisted of 28 riders and around 12 support staff – all volunteers, according to Mr Hester.

“That’s why we tell everyone that we guarantee that 100 per cent of their donation will make it through to the cause,” he said.

He said money raised will be evenly split between funding individualised medical treatment

with the funding that’s available.

Cr Janas said he hopes the pedestrian bridge can be finished before the Victorian Government finishes their upgrade of the nearby Nimmo Bridge, which is currently undergoing strengthening works.

“I’m almost having a bet we’re going to get that finished before VicRoads finish the upgrade of the bridge - that’s been going on for a few months now,” he said.

“We’ll have a little race and I reckon we can be more efficient.”

for children with cancer and research into diffuse midline glioma, a type of aggressive brain tumour that most commonly affects children.

Mr Hester thanked their sponsors and all the volunteers involved with the ride.

They’re the ones who give up a lot of their time, all the time, and sit in the cars and get everything ready,” he said.

“I honestly believe the riders have the easiest job.

“There’s a simplicity with jumping on the bike and just riding.”

As of Friday the ride had raised $237,871.

To donate go to https://livefor-lily-foundation.grassrootz. com/velo-de-vic/donate.

by appointment

ROUND THE ROUNDABOUT: The group beginning their journey to Mount Hotham.

Most of the riders before they left Bright on Wednesday. A small, slower-paced group had left earlier that morning.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

BUILDING A BRIDGE: Council voted to award a contract for the construction of a pedestrian bridge near Myrtleford’s Nimmo Bridge (pictured).

Information session for landslip update

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

MAJOR works along the Bogong High Plains Road are “powering ahead” to completion, according to Major Roads Projects Victoria (MRPV), with the local community invited to two information sessions this month.

MRPV program director Dipal Sorathia encouraged locals to attend.

“We’re hosting community information sessions for locals where they’ll be able to talk to the project team on the ground and get an update on how landslip works are progressing and find out what to expect in the lead up to winter,” he said.

The MRPV community sessions will be held in on Wednesday, April 17 from 5pm to 6.30pm at Falls Creek Resort, 1 Slalom Street and Thursday, April 18 from 5.30pm to 7pm at the Mount Beauty Community Centre in Kiewa Crescent.

Each session includes a 30-minute landslip update and a free barbecue.

Fire danger period to end Monday, April 15

THE Fire Danger Period will finish at 1am on Monday, April 15 in the Alpine Shire and Hotham and Falls Creek resorts.

While restrictions are lifting in these areas, the CFA still expects the grassfire risk to remain across the state.

Landowners must still register their burn-offs, check weather conditions and follow local council laws, as well as EPA laws and applicable regulations.

Landowners can register online at www. firepermits.vic.gov.au or call 1800 668 511.

If possible, landowners should also notify their neighbours and others nearby who may be sensitive to smoke so they can take necessary precautions.

New chair appointed for community bank board

By BRODIE EVERIST

FREEBURGH resident Kim

Murrells is the new Bright Community Bank board chair following the stepping down of previous chair Ros Holland at the end of March.

Ms Holland said it was time to retire from the role, citing a desire for a fresh injection of ideas, and welcomed Ms Murrells to the position.

“It was time to step down and allow someone else to enjoy the many rewarding aspects of the chair role,” she said.

“I love the role so I could easily have stayed for many more years, but it was time for the board and the branch team to get the benefit of a new approach, new ideas, new ways of working together.”

Ms Holland has been on the board since 2014, first as treasurer before becoming the chair in 2019.

“I am especially proud of the positive and productive relationship between the board and the branch team, and also the great relationships Bright has with Bendigo and Adelaide contacts,” she said.

“The amount of money that has been invested in the community over recent years is phenomenal – it

will hit $1 million soon.”

Ms Holland will remain on the board as a director.

Community Bank Bright is owned by local shareholders, with a board of local volunteers that help re-invest money into the community.

“When someone buys a community bank share they agree to give 80 per cent of the profit to the community,” Ms Holland said.

“A message to potential customers is that if you are too busy

to volunteer yourself, give your banking to the community bank and we will support the community on your behalf.”

Ms Murrells has worked in HR for around 25 years and became an HR consultant for an Albury-based company around five years ago.

She is also studying at the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Ms Murrells joined the Community Bank board in Septem-

ber 2023, and has also held various roles on local committees, including the Freeburgh Community Hall and the Bright Junior Football Netball Club.

Ms Murrells thanked Ms Holland for her 10 years on the board.

“In that time she has witnessed close to $700,000 go back into the Bright and Myrtleford communities,” Ms Murrells said.

“She has done a wonderful handover and left the board and bank in an incredible position.”

By KATRINA CIOLLI, Bright P-12 College

BEECHWORTH Montessori school hosted students from three shire schools for a Dhudhuroa language day last month, with around 220 students from prep/Foundation to year 12 participating in the event.

The students were from five regional schools – Harrietville Primary School, Dederang Primary School, Wooragee Primary School, Beechworth Montessori and Bright P-12 College – all of which teach Dhudhuroa language.

Support on the day was given by Dhudhuroa people, including Nathan Lovett-Murray who spoke his first Dhudhuroa words to the students as the Welcome to Country to open the event.

There was support from the regional Koorie Engagement Support Officer (KESO) team, Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Incorporated (VAEAI), University of Melbourne indigenous language linguist Dr Bill Forshaw, the team from Thamarrurr Youth and school staff members.

Dhudhuroa language teachers Mica Corscadden, Kylie Giltrap and Katrina Ciolli coordinated the day.

Children were divided into four groups and rotated through the activity stations.

Each station incorporated a different learning style, but all had a focus on learning and using Dhudhuroa language.

The craft station set students the challenge of using natural resources to create a visual representation of the

word given on their card.

The singing station encouraged students to sing the ‘Cuddly Bawiaka’ (koala) song, which included a number of Dhudhuroa words.

This song must have connected with the surrounds as we were fortunate enough to have a live ‘mascot’ koala climbing in the trees in the school grounds during the morning.

The art station provided an

opportunity for students to work together and produce a take home canvas for each school.

The traditional games station encouraged students to practise jumping like a yawarro (kangaroo) in relay races and to fly like a nianyo (black cockatoo) during an octopus game.

The weather was glorious and contributed to the enjoyment of the day.

Overall, the Dhudhuroa language day was a huge success. It was a day that celebrated and showcased the enthusiasm and achievements of the ongoing and growing language revival efforts for Dhudhuroa.

Many thanks to all involved. The event was supported by a grant from the University of Melbourne Indigenous Knowledge Institute.

Regional wineries celebrate end to tariffs

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

AFTER a three year freeze in trade, the Federal Government last month announced that China was lifting heavy tariffs on Australian wine, and wineries across the North East were thrilled with the news.

Beijing imposed trade sanctions on $20 billion worth of Australian export products during an unsettled trade period in 2020.

China’s duties on Australian wine effectively made it unviable for Australian producers to export bottled wine to that market, which was worth $1.1 billion in 2019.

Gapsted chief executive officer Andrew Santarossa said

the move was a positive one.

“There is an immediate sense of positivity and as an industry we needed this lift,” he said.

“As wine companies navigate a return to the Chinese market in some capacity, it will ease pressure on the Australian domestic sales market.

“This positivity and possible economic benefits are crucial to the many wine companies and growers that are experiencing some of the most challenging financial times.

“I am hopeful that government steps up and supports our industry.

“Reinstating the Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) would be timely and

important assistance to get out there to better understand today’s Chinese market and promote our wines.”

The Brown Family Wine Group (BFWG) at Milawa was one of Australia’s biggest exporters of wine before the tariffs were imposed, having spent 20 years investing in the market.

BFWG winemaker and brand ambassador Katherine Brown said the winery was thrilled to have the opportunity to start the longawaited re-entry into the popular market.

“We’ve got three staff members who are based in China and we’ve kept them on with the optimism the tariffs would be lifted at some stage so we could hit

the ground running and get back into the market as soon as possible,” she said.

“Something we’re really excited about is in the past four years we haven’t been in the market, there’s a whole group, a few million in fact, of people who are now of legal drinking age so we’re looking to tap into these new consumers.

“There’s going to be a really big Moscato and Cienna focus as we look to move our way forward into these markets.”

While the market re-entry will provide a significant reprieve to the winery’s trade, Ms Brown said the group would need to be patient before they could return to pretariff figures in the market.

Outdoor fitness classes prove popular

By BRODIE EVERIST

CLASSES for the Myrtleford and Porepunkah outdoor fitness equipment are a clear success, with the free sessions booked out and a waiting list established for both sites, according to Alpine Health’s health promotion officer Maureen Ryland.

Ms Ryland said they have been overwhelmed by the response to the 6-week series of classes with 18 enrolments at Myrtleford and 21 enrolments in Porepunkah.

“We now have a waiting list for both sites and will be offering classes again later in the year.

“What a fantastic asset for the communities of both Myrtleford and Porepunkah to now have this exercise equipment that we can use.

“We are encouraging participants to have a coffee straight after each class to build a connection in the hope that the group will continue to meet after the classes have finished.”

Bright resident Sue White was at a class in Porepunkah last Monday,

moving through the range of equipment, including a shoulder mobility wheel, an arm cycle and a lat pulldown machine.

“It’s a really great idea,” the 79-year-old said.

“Fitness is essential at my age.

“It certainly brings everyone together as well.”

The equipment at Myrtleford’s

GETTING

FIT: Sue White

using the arm cycle:

Dr Carr-Gregg to visit Bright

PSYCHOLOGIST, author and broadcaster Dr Michael CarrGregg will be speaking in Bright next week as part of #BeKindToYourMind week.

The free community seminar will be held at the Pioneer Park Recreation Reserve Pavilion at 64/72 Coronation Avenue, Bright, on April 17.

Doors open with light refreshments provided at 6pm, with the session to commence at 6:30pm and close at 7:30pm.

Apex Park and Porepunkah’s Riverside Park was launched in February and March, respectively, receiving project funding from the Victorian Government and Commonwealth Government, a donation from Ben-

Bookings are essential by Sunday, 14th April 2024.

The event coincides with the NECC Mental Wellbeing Round, with the Myrtleford Football Netball Club to host former AFL player Steven Baker as their luncheon’s keynote speaker at the Ablett Pavilion in Myrtleford on April 13 at 11:30am.

A positive mental wellbeing program will also run across Myrtleford schools during the week of April 13-19.

WORKING OUT: Porepunkah resident Colleen O’Connor on the pulldown machine.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

digo Bank and contributions from the Rotary Club of Myrtleford and the Lions Club of Bright. Each site has 14 pieces of equipment, two of which are wheelchairaccessible.

CELEBRATING THE NEWS: Gapsted Wines export manager Louise Vogt and chief executive officer and winemaker Andrew Santarossa. PHOTO: Supplied

Trevor Isherwood

How long have you lived in the area?

Thirteen years. We came down from Glasshouse Mountains in Queensland. We felt it was getting built out, which it was. The children asked us to come back to Victoria, so we did.

What are your hobbies or interests?

I’m with the men’s shed. I find that’s most active and most enjoyable; I would recommend anyone of my age or younger to get in touch with the men’s shed. It certainly provides interest, opportunity, friendship and socialisation.

What do you like about the area?

I like the serenity, the people, the ease from which we can go to rural country or back to the city, say in Albury. The people in it, naturally, and the activities I can participate in, like the men’s shed. It’s quite a diverse range of things, really.

Where would you take visitors to showcase the area?

MYRTLEFORD

BRIGHT

Joe Capco and Nick Sigdel

How long have you lived in the area?

Nick: I’ve lived in Bright for about three years now. I’m Nepalese, so I’ve been in Australia for about nine years. I’ve lived in Melbourne, Shepparton and other areas, but I’ve been living here for three years.

Joe: Eight years.

What do you do for a living?

Nick: I work in Star Hotel as a sous chef, and that’s my full-time job.

Joe: I’m the head chef here in the Star Hotel.

What are your hobbies or interests?

Nick: I’m a big muso. I play guitar, drums, I sing, and even do it together with Joe. I love riding motorbikes and playing music.

Joe: I’m a mixed martial artist, so I love mixed martial arts and cage fighting. And chess – I’m a chess master in the Philippines.

What do you like about the area?

Nick: Everything – the people, the environment, the climate. Being from a mountain country, living in the valley back in the day, it just reminds me of my hometown.

Joe: First of all, the people are very friendly. They welcome everybody. There’s no racism or things like that. The weather, the climate –everything’s perfect here.

I’d take them down to the mosaic walk, Mount Buffalo, surrounds around Wandiligong, perhaps a bit further up. Certainly across to Everton and portions in between, Moyhu, Milawa and concentrate a little bit more on Myrtleford and surrounds.

Is there anything you would change about the area?

Not a great deal. We used to come up here with the army vehicles to do training. It’s certainly grown since then, but that was 30-odd years ago. It hasn’t changed a great deal. It’s got more modern and more homes of course, but by and large the town’s worth hasn’t changed at all. It’s still a pleasant, wellnatured place to live.

Do you have any ambitions for the future?

To be motorbike riding as long as I can, stay fit as long as I can, age gracefully, maintain friendships and possibly look for new ones.

Where would you take visitors to showcase the area?

Nick: Towards the hills because of the view. If you have a rough day and stuff like that, if you go up to the hills, at certain heights, you see the view and it can clear your mind. So I would say Mount Buffalo and Mount Hotham. That’s where I’ll take people.

Joe: The best one for me is the riverside because it’s very clear water and you can catch the beautiful sunlight.

Is there anything you would change about the area?

Nick: Especially on holiday times, there must be some strict rules about littering, because whenever you see bins, everywhere they’re full, people are not actually conscious about what they’re doing with littering.

Joe: Maybe the traffic, especially when we get busy. But so far so good.

Do you have any hopes for the future?

Nick: I really believe this is a beautiful place. The locals here have to keep Bright the way it is and they’ve been doing really great. So I have good hope for the future about this place.

Joe: I just want to focus on my work in the kitchen.

MOUNT BEAUTY

Gene Moir

How long have you lived in the area?

All my life, I was born at the Yackandandah hospital over 70 years ago.

What do you like about living here?

I love the river, the mountains, and the atmosphere of the friendly community.

Would you like to see any changes or additions?

Yes, more transport, especially for older people to get around.

What do you do, your hobbies and interests?

I work part time at Treats Cafe, I love to walk, read, and work with mosaics, most of all I love gardening.

Where would you take visitors to showcase the area?

Up to Bogong Village, to Fainter Falls and to the many lovely walking trails.

Upper Kiewa Valley Lions celebrate milestone

UPPER Kiewa Valley Lions Club celebrated their 60th birthday last Saturday.

To thank the community a special morning tea/lunch was held at the Mount Beauty Community Centre.

Over 100 people enjoyed the homemade country style spread.

“Putting on an event like this is to thank the community for their support over the years, it is also an opportunity to let the community know that funds raised over the years amount to $1,365,000,” Lions member Rod Hyde said.

A digital display on a large screen showed all the organisations who have benefited from the Lions Club, a list too long to mention here.

Other Lions club members made the trip to Mount Beauty included the Albury president and his wife, Malcolm and Jean Evans, and Lions District Governor John Houghton, who came from Wangaratta.

“The Upper Kiewa Valley Lions

THE Mount Beauty Rotary

Club car boot sale over Easter was a success, with 16 car boots displaying their goods.

Beautiful weather and a sausage sizzle pulled in a large crowd.

With spot hire fee and the sausage sizzle, the Rotary Club raised almost $2000 for the day.

A good effort.

Club has made a considerable contribution, from a small base it is truly a great effort,“ Mr Houghton said.

The people attending were invited to suggest future events that Lions could hold go keep their activities ever evolving, with fresh ideas always welcome.

Mr Houghton, helped current UKV Lions Club president, Jo Macklan cut the cake, a work of art, made by local Lions member Maureen Hardidge.

ON Alpine FM’s Brunch program today at 10.10am my guest will be Trey Rogers speaking about Autism Acceptance Month.

There will be a new segment on the brunch program, similar to this publication

“People Around Town“ where community members from Mount Beauty, Bright and Tawonga will be in the studio chatting about their journey of how, when and why they came to be living in the North East High Country.

with District Governor John Houghton at the cutting of the birthday cake. CELEBRATION: (Below, from left) Enjoying the Lions Club’s hospitality, Henry Ziemnicki, Paul L’ Huillier and Ron Fensham.

Local politicians unite against renewables planning changes

LOCAL state and federal MPs have slammed the State Government for changes to Victorians’ right to appeal renewable energy projects under Labor’s new fast-track laws.

Under the change, which came into effect on April 1, appeals against a planning minister’s approval can only be made to the Supreme Court on a point of law.

The MPs said the new laws mean that locals who have genuine concerns about these projects will not only have their voices silenced, but their rights to a merits review of the minister’s decision completely taken away.

The changes come amid ongoing concerns from Kiewa Valley residents regarding two proposed battery energy storage systems in Dederang.

Wangaratta-based Nationals MP for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, said he was outraged at the lack of transparency the government’s changes will deliver.

“I am outraged that (Premier) Jacinta Allan thinks they continue to erode the rights of residents and local communities in the planning stage,” Mr McCurdy said.

BY SHANE DOUTHIE sdouthie@ nemedia.com.au

“Once again we have seen Labor decide to consolidate power and reduce transparency.

“And once again, regional Victoria is the one experiencing the brunt of these changes.”

Independent federal MP for Indi Helen Haines has written to the Victorian Government expressing her dismay with its decision to remove the right for third parties to appeal renewable energy planning decisions through VCAT.

“I’m listening to my communities, including people from Dederang and Meadow Creek, who are telling me about their genuine concerns about large-scale renewable energy projects proposed close to where they live,” Dr Haines said.

In her letter to the Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio and Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny, Dr Haines expressed concern that under the current system, there are not

enough safeguards to ensure communities are heard and their issues acted upon by developers.

“The State Government is not listening to these concerns, and project developers are not consistently offering real benefits to regional communities expected to host these projects,” she said.

“The removal of the right to appeal to VCAT will exacerbate this situation.”

“Fast-tracking projects

and silencing communities is terrible governance.”

Dr Haines and Independent Senator for the ACT David Pocock worked with the Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen in 2023 to establish an independent review into community engagement and benefit sharing for renewable energy developments.

“The Community Engagement Review final report was clear - the state and federal governments must im-

prove community engagement and consultation,” Dr Haines said.

“The decision to remove the right to appeal to VCAT is contrary to the recommendations of the review’s final report.

“In my letter to the state ministers, I asked how the Victorian Government will act to implement the recommendations of the review to ensure community engagement and community benefit are delivered for the com-

munities in Indi impacted by renewable energy projects.

“The Federal Government needs to put money behind the recommendations in the review and work with the states to legislate best practice community engagement for the energy transition.

“I support the transition to renewables but regional people should be given opportunities to benefit from the renewable energy transition, this must be done with us, not to us.”

Senator for Victoria Bridget McKenzie said Labor’s aggressive agenda of renewables at any cost is blatantly ignoring the rights and needs of regional communities.

“It’s a case of Labor biggovernment operating without social licence and squeezing out local voices on these big projects at every turn,” Senator McKenzie said.

“Residents in the North East are not necessarily opposed to renewables, but have genuine safety and environmental concerns about these rushed projects, which is based on their extensive history living and working the land.”

Crime rate is substantially up across the shire

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

THE Alpine Shire criminal offence rate has increased significantly compared to the previous year, but still remains well below the state average.

significantly up from the 459 offences recorded in the same period the previous year.

The offence rate per 100,000 population for Alpine was 3921.7 compared with the Victorian rate of 7698.2.

How does it increase enjoyment of life?

According to Crime Statistics Victoria, the Alpine Shire recorded 519 offences in the year ending December 2023 –

Of the top five offences in the shire, sexual offences and criminal damage have increased, while breaches of family violence orders, stealing from a motor vehicle, and other theft have all decreased.

Sexual offences were the top offence committed in the shire with 92 offences recorded last year, compared to 27 in the previous year.

Criminal damage also went up from 39 in 2022 to 48 in the year ending 2023.

IN THE DARK: Nationals MP for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy has spoken out about the lack of consultation over where major renewable energy projects are located. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

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This rare offering is a 60s architectural design that boasts a unique blend of mid-century style, accompanied by quality local craftsmanship. An idyllic lifestyle awaits with river frontage and a landscaped one-acre complete with two meg water rights to maintain your home all year round.

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This property presents an ideal opportunity for those seeking a well-established home that combines comfort and practicality.

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More than a figure of speed from Audi

SPECIAL EDITION: Buyers will have to be quick to join the anniversary celebrations.

By DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring

ONE of the most popular pastimes in the world, Monopoly, and the Audi RS Q3 sports utility vehicle have much in common.

The board game deals with high finance and real estate, the SUV high performance motoring; both rely heavily on figures.

The latter has just added a lot more of the latter to the list with its RS Q3 Sportback Edition 10 Years, as the suffix suggests with reference to its decade of success.

Audi is making only 555 specials in celebration, with a ‘healthy number’ slated for Down Under.

“This edition pays great tribute to the best of SUV performance in the RS Q3 Sportback,” says Audi Australia director Jeff Manning, who has no doubts about the sales success of the anniversary edition in this country.

“Australia as a market is so performance focused and I have no doubt that owners will enjoy exclusive RS touches in this special model.”

The RS Q3 Sportback 10 Years is based on the storied RS Q3 with a raft of unique features inside and out, not least the award winning 2.5 TFSI turbocharged five-cylinder motor, producing an unrivalled bass note.

In keeping with this is an exclusive collection of accoutrements such as black 21-inch alloy wheels, matching Audi

badging and brake callipers, plus race-inspired front bucket seats with contrasting copper honeycomb stitching.

The RS Q3 Sportback Edition 10 Years comes with Audi’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, plus 12-year manufacturer warranty for bodywork against corrosion.

Owners also receive membership during the warranty period to the Audi Experience with access to exclusive events, Ambassador experiences and premium partner offers.

STYLING

Stand-out exclusive colours are Dew Silver matt or metallic Chronos Grey, the latter providing a strong base for darkened matrix LED headlamps, with dynamic turn indicators and matching wing mirror housings.

A glossy black roof frame, window rims, and door trim point the way to copycat front spoiler blades and diffuser insert. The Audi four rings cling to the single frame radiator grille and rear together with the model lettering.

INTERIOR

Race-style front bucket seats have a lot going for them – big bolsters for snug lateral support (handy on dramatic direction changes) and covered in leather and Dinamica, black with contrasting copper coloured honeycomb stitching and backrest in matt carbon.

Here’s the bad news: while both seats are heated, they

are reduced to manual adjustment; no power here.

This is not what we have become used to in a $100K car.

Never mind, the RS sport steering wheel makes up for the absence, being clothed in sexy suede-style Alcantara with copper stitching, which is repeated in the gear lever gaiter.

Ambient LED lighting adds the finishing touches to the luxe surroundings.

The RS Q3 Edition Ten Years leaves its unique signature with illuminated door sill trims and a red 3-D diamond projected onto the ground when the door is opened.

Saying the car is a five-seater is stretching things; the rear is short on width.

The boot will take 530 litres of cargo with the 60:40 rear seat backs up, expanding to 1400 litres with them folded.

An electric tailgate includes gesture control.

The RS Q3 Edition Ten Years leaves its unique signature with illuminated door sill trims and a red 3-D diamond projected onto the ground when the door is opened.

ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS

The award winning TFSI five-cylinder engine pumps out 294 kW of power, 17 per cent more than the previous RS Q3 motor.

Maximum torque of 480 Nm, on tap between 1950 and 5850 rpm runs the quattro permanent allwheel drive via a seven-

speed S tronic dual clutch transmission.

SAFETY

ANCAP safety is not rated, as is the case with many sports specials. However, there is no skimping on active safety, with adaptive cruise assist with Stop&Go function, Audi presense front with autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning and lane keeping assist.

The 360-degree cameras, plus rear and front parking alarms instil confidence when faced with crowded car parks.

DRIVING

And so to the Audi RS Q3 Sportback Edition 10 Years figures.

The Car can hit 100 km/h from standstill in 4.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 250 km/h. Audi claims fuel consumption of 8.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban / highway cycle.

The test car recorded just over 10 litres per 100 kilometres in city stop/start motoring and 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres on a mainly motorway run.

That apart, it’s the accompanying exhaust note that really takes the cake.

The odd number of cylinders with their unique firing order of 1-2-4-5-3 deliver a deep sonorous sound via twin barrels with exhaust flap control and gloss black oval tailpipe trims.

The RS sport suspension with adaptive dampers has the car on best behaviour around city streets but still gets a grip

when things are set loose on fast bends or sharp corners.

Bits to play with include driving modes, powertrain monitoring and performance tracking.

Positive steering is backed up by Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system, while braking has the heft to pull up the vehicle with the assurance the driver demands of a high-performance sports car.

SUMMARY

The anniversary RS Q3 is available in Sportback only, the SUV not given a guernsey, which is how it should be. Buyers will have to be quick to join the celebrations.

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 9/10

Safety: 7/10

Thirst:5/10

Practicality: 6/10

Comfort: 7/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 7/10

April rainfall is already more than all March

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

THE first week of April has already delivered more rain in the region than the entire month of March.

The Bureau of Meteorology’s weather station at Wangaratta airport recorded 13.8mm on Saturday, giving the city 25mm for the week - and well above March’s entire rainfall of 16.8mm.

Saturday’s rainfall across the North East was heaviest at Falls Creek, with 44mm, while Mt Hotham had 22.4mm.

Albury had 18mm, Rutherglen 17mm, Bright 15.4mm, Greta West 14.4mm, Harrietville 14mm and Yarrawonga 13.2mm.

The King Valley saw varied falls from 14.8mm at Bobinawarrah to just 5.8mm at Cheshunt.

Smoke from burns could linger longer

By JEFF ZEUSCHNER

PLANNED burns on public land will continue to ramp up across the North East over coming weeks.

And while conditions are ideal for burning, authorities are warning weather patterns may cause smoke to linger over parts of the state overnight and through to early morning.

An 84ha burn at Ridge Track near Glenrowan is among burns planned over the next week or so.

Also planned are:

• 24ha burn at the Beechworth Gorge and 2893ha burn at Mt Emu at Tawonga;

• two burns near Stanley totaling 200ha; and

• burns at Eurobin Gap Track near Porepunkah and Barwidgee near Myrtleford.

Forest Fire Management

Victoria chief fire officer Chris Hardman said milder, stable conditions were ideal for the planned burns, which keep communities safer from bushfires.

“With the current favourable weather and forest conditions, we are dedicating all available resources to deliver planned burning,” he said on Friday.

“Reducing fine fuels such as grass, leaves, bark, shrubs and fallen branches means fires are less intense and slower to spread, making it more likely that firefighters can keep bushfires small and contained before they pose a risk to communities.”

Alpine to The Vine nears fundraising target

By SIMONE KERWIN

ABOUT 30 locals joined in the running of the Alpine to The Vine event which finished in Wangaratta on March 16.

Initiated by former Wangaratta resident Danny Allan to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute, the 80km ultra event saw Danny running alongside brother Robbie, with community members invited to join them at various intervals between Bright and Wangaratta.

It was staged as part of nowScotland-based Danny’s Smls (pronounced Smalls) project - an online platform for movement-based events which raises money for various mental health initiatives worldwide.

Smls emerged from Danny’s passion to make a difference for those experiencing mental health issues, after losing his best mate Karl (affectionately known as Charlie) to suicide at age 18.

“We had a great turnout for Alpine to The Vine, and the local community really jumped on board and supported the day,” Danny said.

“I think we had around 30 people join the run throughout the day, which was amazing.

“The highlight for me was the incredible support we received from the local community; not just in cash donations, but also all the local businesses which put up prizes for our local raffle, as well as reconnecting with old

friends, which was pretty special.

“The super talented Richard Iskov captured the entire day for us.”

Alpine to The Vine has so far raised almost $8500 towards the Black Dog Institute’s crucial mental health research and support services.

That’s just shy of the $10,000 goal, and donations can still be made via the smlsgoods Instagram page or by visiting https://www.teamblackdog. org.au/fundraisers/Alpinetothevine

“Every time we put together a fundraiser like this, it’s overwhelming to see how generous people can be, and to get so close to our original target is pretty epic,” Danny said.

“Each time one of these events

rolls around, I have countless conversations with people about their mental health or a loved one’s experiences with mental health.

“It means a lot to do our small part, and it really highlights the importance of what organisations like Black Dog are doing.”

Danny’s next challenge is PAIN 132 in Edinburgh, and Charlie’s Loop, which will again be held in multiple cities including Melbourne on September 7.

To find out more about these events, visit @smlsgoods on Instagram.

* If this media article causes you any distress, please phone Lifeline on 131 114 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

Stay fire safe with a working smoke alarm

By BRODIE EVERIST

JUST as you change your clocks every April, residents should also check their smoke alarms, say Victorian firefighters.

CFA and Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) urged Victorians last week to check smoke alarms at the same time as they turned their clocks back when daylight saving ended on Sunday morning.

According to the CFA and Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV), 14 people died in preventable house fires last year, a number they hope to reduce with regular smoke alarm checks.

Discarded smoking materials, lighters and matches were the most frequent cause of the fires, they said, resulting in five incidents and seven deaths.

“The number of fatalities in the last year is very alarming and

devastating to know they could have been prevented,” CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said.

“In the past 10 years, CFA have responded to more than 13,000 residential fires that have seen more than 330 casualties.”

Myrtleford Fire Brigade captain Gloria Pizzolitto encouraged local residents to have a number of smoke detectors across their home to ensure early warning in case of a fire.

“Smoke does not go through the walls,” she said.

“It’ll take a long time for that first room to fill up for smoke to go under the door into the second room.

“If you’re double storey, they need to be on every level as well.” For best protection, FRV recommends the installation of interconnected smoke alarms in every sleeping area and living

room, so if one smoke alarm activates, all alarms will sound. They should also be powered by ten-year lithium batteries.

When checking, installing, or replacing your smoke alarms, CFA and FRV also recommend that smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, living area, hallway and garage, and they should be installed on the ceiling at least 30cm from the wall, or installed on the wall at least 30cm from the ceiling to avoid dead air space.

Smoke alarms should be tested monthly by pressing the test button on the alarm and waiting for the test alarm to sound.

They should be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or dusted at least once a year to remove particles that will affect smoke alarm performance.

For more information visit the CFA website and FRV website.

GET IT CHECKED: Myrtleford Fire Brigade captain Gloria Pizzolitto encouraged local residents to check their smoke alarms.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

ROAD TO SUPPORT: Community members joined the run along the way from Bright to North Wangaratta.

LEADING THE WAY: Brothers Danny and Robbie Allan led the Alpine to the Vine event which had its finish line at The Vine Hotel. PHOTOS: Richard Iskov

STARTING CONVERSATIONS: Danny Allan chats with participants in the Alpine to The Vine ultra event which wound down in Wangaratta on March 16.

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TAYLOR, Joyce. Formerly of Bright. Passed away surrounded by her family at Strathalan Aged Care on April 4, 2024. Aged 94 years.

Much loved wife of Ray (dec), mother and grandmother to Andrew, Christine, Deborah, Adam and Elisha. Forever in our hearts.

VACCARO, Riccardo “George”. Of Myrtleford. Passed away at home on Monday, April 1, 2024. Much loved husband of Linda and loving father of Paul, Maria, Rhonda and Kathy. Loved father-in-law, grandfather and great grandfather. So dearly loved, So sadly missed. XOX.

VACCARO, Riccardo “George”. 15/1/1941 – 1/4/2024

A special, loving, caring husband of 56 years, a great father, father-in-law, grandfather and great-grandfather. Until we meet again,

~ Your loving wife, Linda xox

VACCARO, Riccardo “George”. 15/1/1941–1/4/2024

Something that is loved is never lost.

~ Love Maree, Jade, Justin, Jake, Emily and Ivy. xox

VACCARO, Riccardo “George”. 15/1/1941 – 1/4/2024

Dad, Your love, your patience, your understanding, your wisdom, your amazing sense of humour and story telling will live on inside of us forever.

Until we meet again, see you later Dad, George, Pop. You will always live in on our hearts.

~ Love Rhonda and Ian, Jamie and Paige, Toby and Mel. xox

VACCARO

Funeral prayers to honour the life of Riccardo “George” Vaccaro will be held at St Mary’s Catholic Church, 29 Lawrence Street, Myrtleford commencing at 10am on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 followed by interment at the Wangaratta Lawn Cemetery at 2pm.

Hoppers bounce Bombers in TDFL opener

By DANIEL SAVILLE

A NEW look senior football squad at Dederang-Mount Beauty were unable to produce a win in their first shot at victory as they were comprehensively outplayed by Tallangatta in their opening match of the Tallangatta and District Football League campaign.

An inexperienced DMB fielded eight debutants and were missing several first-choice players but finished on the wrong end of the 29.14 (188) to 1.2 (8) scoreline.

The Hoppers made a quick start at Rowen Park and put the Bombers on the back foot early, conceding

nine goals to one in the first half.

The floodgates opened after halftime as a rampaging Tallangatta kicked 10 goals in the third and fourth quarter, whilst restricting Dederang-Mount Beauty to just two behinds in the 180-point win.

James Breen kicked seven goals for the home team in a dominant display of forward craft, while Corey Laird was the only Bomber to kick truly for the visitors.

On a tough day for the Bombers, Jacob Ozolins, McGhee, Sam Creamer stood tall, while Matthew Paddle, Jedd Bynon and Cameron Jones were also named amongst the team’s best players.

Despite the lopsided result that eventuated on the scoreboard, cocoach Tom McGhee was pleased with some aspects of their game.

“We went into yesterday’s game with a lot of unknowns as to how it would play out, with a handful of regular senior players unavailable for the match, which left us a bit short in key positions,” McGhee said.

“As a group, we knew playing together for the first time would be a challenge which we went into with a positive mindset but in the end, Tallangatta were far too good on the day.

“Our first half showed glimpses of good footy and we thought our effort around the footy and contest

WINNERS:

was good, but we just lacked the composure to execute our skills for periods of the game which the Hoppers were able to capitalise on.”

The Bombers will return to the comforts of home in Mount Beauty for their first of four home games in Mount Beauty against Barnawartha, who were also defeated in their season-opener against Mitta United.

In the earlier reserves game, Tallangatta were too good for Dederang-Mount Beauty, going down by 113 points – 18.12 (120) to 1.1 (7).

Isaac Sullivan and Sam Cariss were the Bombers’ best, whilst Thomas Wiffen was the side’s sole goalkicker.

SECOND: Award presenter

Sarah Jones (left) with the runner up Chiltern team of Julia Polinghorne, Bodie Hibberson, and Daniel Czuczman.

THIRD: Award presenter

Sarah Jones (left) with the third placed Dederang team of Dale Mastenbroek, Kevin Grentell, and Leon Read.

Bright Bowls Club hosts popular tournament again

BOWLERS from around the North East once again came to Bright Bowls Club for the very popular Geoff Jones Memorial Day Tournament on Sunday, April 7.

A fantastic day was had by all, with 20 teams (60 players) enjoying four games of two bowl triples on what turned out to be a fine day.

This year, all players were given a special gift, a Geoff Jones Memorial Tournament bowls cloth along with a free ticket for two chances to win $50 for those who hadn’t won a cash prize over the four games.

Anthony Jones spoke on behalf of the Jones family and thanked the teams from Beechworth (two), Chiltern (three), Dederang (two), Myrtleford (two), Milawa, Tallangatta, Wangaratta, Yackandandah, Yar-

rawonga and of course Bright (six) for making the day a huge success.

Anthony thanked the Bright Bowls Club and Gumtree Pies for sponsoring this event in honour of his father and made mention of how his father loved the social aspect of the club.

Geoff had a big involvement at Bright Bowls Club: he joined in 2000, was president for two years (2005-‘06 and 2006-’07), an accredited coach (2009-2017), along with many other roles within the club.

Geoff ’s main aim was always to encourage new bowlers to enjoy the game of bowls.

The club was thrilled to have Christine Jones, and her daughter Sarah and son Anthony join in on such a happy day and to have Sa-

rah present the winners with their prizemoney, with 21 bowlers receiving a cash prize.

Overall results

First: Bright was the only team with four wins and 67 points (Cheryl Raduczic, Peter Raduczic, Ernie Vanderwert).

Second: Chiltern with three wins and a draw, 54 points (Julia Polinghorne, Bodie Hibberson, Daniel Czuczman).

Third: Dederang with three wins and 51 points (Dale Mastenbroek, Leon Read, Kevin Grentell).

Best First Game: Composite Myrtleford/Dederang team (Lance Symons, Ken Roberts, Pat Glass).

Best Second Game: Composite Myrtleford/Bright team (Mickey Clayton, Jim Murtagh, Steve Jenvey).

Best Third Game: Yackandandah (Frank Artis, Sue Artis, Wayne Fursze).

Best Fourth Game: Chiltern (Katrina Teissi, Jon Ind, Wendy McDougall).

The $50 lucky ticket raffles were won by Patrick O’Shea (Bright) and John McCoy (Tallangatta).

The club wishes to thank their sponsors for our many raffle prizes: Ampol Roadhouse Bright, Nightingales Bros Alpine Produce Wandiligong, Bright Brewery, Morses Creek Bakery Bright, Dolly Coffee/Caravan Harrietville.

The club also wishes to extend a big thank-you to all the members of the Bright Bowls Club and volunteers who helped make this a very memorable day.

Myrtleford golfers brave conditions

A WET and soggy week wasn’t enough to keep keen golfers away from the Myrtleford Golf Club.

Saturday, April 6

DRUMMOND GOLF

MONTHLY

MEDAL STROKE

AMCR 71 AWCR 74

A grade and medal winner: Jonathan Mercuri (14) 85/71. A grade runner up: Damien Rossato (9) 81/72.

Ball winners: J Costello 73, A Rockliff 74, J Martin 74c/b.

Foodworks NTPs - 1st:

Busy few weeks for Bright golfers

THE Bright Golf Club has been a hive of activity over the past few weeks, with players of all ages having a hit on the beautiful course.

Veterans, Monday, March 18, Stroke

Winner: Graham Barrow (22) 73.

NTPs – 3rd Jenny Ritcher, 6th: Graham Badrock, 11th: Mathew Ellis, 16th: Andy Armstrong.

Ladies, Wednesday, March 20, Doris Chambers

Foursomes

Winners: Robyn McGrath and Tina Cook 38 points.

NTPs - 11th: Tina Cook, 16th: Allison Gilbert.

Men, Thursday, March 21, Stableford

Winners: Norm McIntyre (17) 37 points c/b, David Kelly (12) 37 points c/b.

NTPs - 3rd: Brian Thomas, 6th: Tony Chalwell, 11th: Mark Frost, 16th: Hamish McPhee.

Ladies, Saturday, March 23, Stableford

Winner: Carolyn Bailey (17) 33 points.

NTPs - 6th: Gail Cresswell Dawson, 11th: Lauren Velicki, 16th: Robyn McGrath.

Veterans, Monday, March 25, Stableford.

Winner: Graham Barrow (23) 34 points.

Ladies, Wednesday, March 27, Stableford

Winner: Jen Younie (22) 36 points.

NTPs - 3rd: Carol Burgess, 6th: Carol Burgess, 11th: Tina Cook, 16th: Tina Cook.

Men, Thursday, March 28, Stableford

Winner: David Webb (22) 36 points.

NTPs - 3rd: Norm McIntyre, 6th: Robert Taylor, 11th: Robert Davey, 16th: Darren Hamilton.

Men, Saturday, March 30, Stableford

Winner: Robert Taylor (9) 38 points.

NTPs - 3rd: Bill Kelty, 6th: Cameron Wicks, 11th: Mathew Kelly, 16th: David Kelly.

Veterans, Monday, April 1, Stableford

Winner: Grahan Badrock (15) 37 points.

Thursday, April 4

Myrtleford Alpine DairyStableford - AWCR 74

A grade winner: Jan Harper (35) 35pts. A grade runner up: Barb Welch (21) 32pts.

Ball winners: Judy Bynon 31pts.

Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Marnie Broz.

Nine hole winner: Marg

John Costello, 4th 2nd shot: Ben Holmes, 8th: Paul Carr, 14th: John Costello, 16th: Jonathan Mercuri. Matthews Cleaning encouragement award: Chris Rowney 108/91. Raffle winner: Robert Wheeler.

Curtis (17) 16pts. Nine hole runner up: Denise O’Donohue (36) 14pts.

Wednesday, April 3

Myrtleford Dairy Stableford AMCR 71

A grade winner: Brody Ricardi (10) 35 pts c/b. A grade runner up: Chris Rowney (17) 35 pts.

Ball winners: Brian Caldwell 34, A Roseby 33, P Veldman 33, G Veldman 33, J Galvan 33.

Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Jade Galvan, 4th 2nd shot: Matthew Britten, 8th: Jon Harrington, 14th: Warren

Rowney.

Tuesday, April 2

Drummond Monthly Medal - Stroke - AWCR 74

A grade winner: Marnie Broz (19) 94/75. A grade runner up: Barb Welch (21) 98/77c/b.

Ball winners: Angela O’Shaughnessy 93/77.

Foodworks NTPs - 2nd /4th: Liz Rouse, 14th: Marnie Broz.

Putting competition: Barb Welch 26 putts. Nine hole winner: Denise O’Donohue 16c/b. Nine hole runner up: Kerry Chapman 16.

WINNER: Brody Ricardi took out last Wednesday’s stableford competition.

NTPs - 3rd: Jenny Ritcher, 6th: Ron Yee, 11th: Ron Yee, 16th: John Williams.

Ladies, Wednesday, April 3, Stroke Monthly Medal

A grade winner: Allison Gilbert (15) 72. B grade winner: Elizabeth Barker (26) 69.

NTPs - 3rd: Jen Younie, 6th: Elizabeth Barker, 16th: Robyn McGrath.

Men, Thursday, April 4, Stableford

Winners: Mark Frost (15) 40 points c/b, Phil Bardsley Smith (13) 40 points.

NTPs - 3rd: Stuart Carlisle, 6th: Wayne Curtis, 11th: Gary Shattles, 16th: Mark Frost.

The champion Bright team of (from left) Peter Raduczic, honoured guest Christine Jones, Cheryl Raduczic, and Ernie Vanderwert.

HEAVY rain prevented the ladies from playing their comp on Saturday, April 6, while the men endured a rain interrupted Monthly Medal round.

There were 22 starters for the round with only eight able to finish before the rain washed out the course.

The eventual victor was Stuie Jelbart with a net 78 from Mick Luscombe, net 81 - it was obviously tough going.

Two visitors from Muswellbrook Golf Club, Cameron and Brady Benkovic, had the better scores, net 75 and 78 C/B, but were ineligible for the Monthly Medal.

The club had two other visitors, Angus Watt from Kurri Kurri GC and Russell Munro from Yackandandah GC joining for the day.

NTP on the seventh went to Peter Hertzog, along with the Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post

Office.

The ninth went to Dave Browning, the 17th to Gerad Biesboer, and the money on the 18th was won by Stephen Short.

The ladies of the Mount Beauty Golf Club played the back nine on Wednesday, April 3 which was won by Ruth Rynehart with 19 points from Liz Harvey on 17 points.

NTP on the 18th (second shot) was Liz Harvey.

The men also played the back nine on the Wednesday with David Drew winning the round with 20 points on a three-way countback from Ross Rynehart and Ivan Mock.

NTP on the 17th was Roger Church while Ivan Mock was closest on the 18th.

TOUGH CONTEST: Stuie Jelbart took out the Monthly Medal in wet and rainy conditions.

Tallangatta too good for Dederang-Mount Beauty Saturday ladies’ golf washed away

By DANIEL SAVILLE

THE best and worst of netball were on display in round 1 as heavy rain and a strong opening-round opponent greeted Dederang-Mount Beauty’s A grade netball side last Saturday in a see-sawing contest.

As the next best teams who both narrowly missed finals action last year, both teams were hungry to get the edge on the other and the game did not disappoint.

The tight tussle, which was packed with lead changes and momentum swings, ended in a 10-point deficit for the visiting Bombers – 34 goals to 44.

The home side did not have it their own way as DMB skipped ahead to a two-goal lead at the first break (1210), then roles were reversed as Tallangatta held a slender half-time margin of the same amount (18-20).

It was the premiership quarter that made all of the difference as the Hoppers skipped away to a ninepoint lead, which was only one less than the fi nal margin, showing that the Bombers persevered until the end.

Paige Tuohey scored 19 goals at 82 per cent to be DMB’s biggest contributor on the scoreboard, while Keely Bullivant added 12 goals of her own.

Pip Fairbairn played four quarters of consistent netball at wing defence to stand out as the Bombers’ best, whilst mid-courter Maddi Deery also made an impact in her first game for the club.

Coach Alex Dyde was happy with the quality of netball that was on display but knows that there is room for improvement.

“Lots of skill and potential was shown yesterday and with some quick cleaning up of a few fixable errors, we are in for a successful season,” Dyde said.

“Tallangatta presented a strong side – I’m sure they are going to do

very well this season and we will be hot on their heels.”

Mount Beauty will host the Bombers’ first home game for the season this Saturday afternoon.

Second-round opponent Barnawartha will also be looking for their first win this weekend after being defeated by Mitta United by 10 goals, and this now turns into an important game for both teams who are aspiring to play finals.

In what was a mixed day of senior netball results, Dederang-Mount Beauty lost to Tallangatta (23-39) in B grade, but won the earlier C grade game 38 goals to 31.

Young Bombers are back in town

■ From back page

In a further boost for the league, two other clubs have added junior teams in 2024 –Wahgunyah have reinstated their thirds and fourths, whilst Wodonga Saints have also brought back their 14 and under side.

Despite the excitement that a newly formed team can bring, Gardiner was realistic with some of the challenges that the group and club may encounter throughout the season.

“Although we will be fielding a team, our numbers could be stronger and we are always looking for potential recruits - if anyone wants to get involved or you know if someone who may be interested, please give us a shout,” Gardiner said.

“We realise that we are young and inexperienced, having only three top age players we will be giving away size, strength and experience - our premiership players from last season’s under 14 side will be the backbone of our team.

“We’d definitely expect to win some games, but with limited information regarding the strength of other sides, it will be a learning experience.

“Our aim is to run a tight knit group, who looks out for each other and enjoys their footy.

“The boys are super keen to get into the season.”

Mount Beauty local and dashing defender Mark Flay will lead the side as captain this season, while Beau Duggan and Toby Derrick were appointed vice-captains.

While the result didn’t go their way on the scoreboard in a hard-fought 35-point defeat to Tallangatta last Saturday, getting this team back on the park is the biggest win of all and could be the beginning of a long journey to seeing Dederang-Mount Beauty returning to the peak of the TDFL mountain.

By NATHAN DE VRIES

IT was a busy week for Myrtleford’s senior women, backing up an FA Cup clash with Melrose FC on Wednesday night to take on the much-touted Albury United in the Sunday competition.

While they may have been defeated 0-5 in the Cup match, Savoy took it to a new level against last season’s cup winners, defeating Albury United 2-0.

Up against a strong outfit on Wednesday, Myrtleford were still in the contest at half-time, only trailing by a goal.

However, Melrose proved too good, packing on four secondhalf goals against an understrength side, but co-coach Tom Scott said there were positives to take from the encounter.

“We went into it with a pretty positive mindset which was great,” he said.

“To walk away at half-time 1-0 down from a technical error more than anything, we were really happy with.

“Melrose is a really good side, and the girls showed a lot of character to stand up to them.

“There were a few errors in the second half, a couple of players battling injuries and things like that sort of hurt, but it was a good learning curve, good to see that we can keep pace with such a strong side.”

Up against last season’s premiers on a crisp Sunday morning, Savoy were in control early.

The entire squad worked to-

gether well, delivering in both offence and defence, the young side standing up to the challenge of the much more experienced outfit.

“Coming onto Sunday, we went in with the belief that we can compete against a higher team, and United did win it (FA Cup) last year so it was a good opportunity to see where our skills were at,” Scott said.

“We had a couple of player changes and formation changes, but we found a good sync, and when everyone is on the same page you generally do play better.

“We just kept finding holes, United pressed us when they

did and the girls were able to hold strong.

“It was a really good day to see all of the hard work we’ve done over the summer was all in one moment.

“I think it’s given them a lot of belief going forward that we can continue this idea of playing this hard game of football, playing at high pressure, and we can beat higher teams.

“It was a pretty good end to the week.”

The senior women sit in the middle of the ladder after three rounds, up against the winless Twin City Wanderers this weekend.

“I know they’ve got a bit of a more mature-age squad, so it will be interesting to see what we can do scoreboard-wise,” Scott said.

“I know they’ve had a couple of hard weeks, and I believe they play a mid-week game against Wodonga Heart, so we probably walk into the game favourites, I would say, because we’ll be a little more rested.

“It’s an interesting game, we take everything with a grain of salt and make sure we compete at our best.”

The reserve women fought hard in their match but came up short 1-2.

side avenges 2023 FA Cup final with 2-0 result over

United ■

back page

now turns to a busy few days for Savoy, with their latest Cup fixture against Wangaratta City set for Wednesday, April 10, before a Sunday clash against the undefeated Twin City Wanderers.

Vescio said it would be difficult to pick squads for two important matches.

“We’ll see the sore bodies and assess where we go with Wednesday night’s game, who we decide to play, who gets back on the park,” he said.

“It’s a bit of a doubleedged sword: do you play your best available 11 against Wangaratta and try and get them to back up and finish three games in seven days, or do you mix things up a little bit against Wangaratta, try and get the points?

“Twin City have had a good start to the year, so you’ve got to look at that game and think we’re three from three, it’s a good chance to go out in front if we chase a result there - we’re trying to chase two results.”

WINNERS AND LOSERS

OVENS AND MURRAY SENIORS LADDER

SCOREBOARD RESERVES RESULTS

ALBURY 4.3 9.10 15.14 21.21.147

WODONGA

GOALS: ALBURY: Kolby Heiner-Hennessy 4, Mat Walker 4, Jacob Conlan 2, Jeff Garlett 2, Ben Kelly 2, Anthony Miles 2, Riley Bice 1, Fletcher Carroll 1, Jake Gaynor 1, Jackson Kelly 1, Jacob Page 1. WODONGA: Tom Bracher 2, Cameron Ellis-Yolmen 2, Max Glass 1, Archer Scammell 1, Bradley St John 1. BEST: ALBURY & WODONGA RAIDERS No best players have been selected.

WANGARATTA ROVERS

COROWA

NETBALL SCORES THIRDS RESULTS

A GRADE

North Albury 39 def by Wangaratta 41

Wangaratta Rovers 34 def by Corowa-Rutherglen 55

Wodonga 45 def Myrtleford 41

Lavington 27 def by Yarrawonga 39

Albury 32 def by Wodonga Raiders 42

B GRADE: North Albury 50 def Wangaratta 39; Wangaratta Rovers 47 def Corowa-Rutherglen 39; Wodonga 49 drew with Myrtleford 49; Lavington 15 def by Yarrawonga 49; Albury 44 def Wodonga Raiders 37.

C GRADE: North Albury 36 def by Wangaratta 41; Wangaratta Rovers 58 def Corowa-Rutherglen 39; Lavington 41 def by Yarrawonga 46; Albury 43 def Wodonga Raiders 36; Wodonga 52 def Myrtleford 31.

UNDER 17s: North Albury 28 def by Wangaratta 36; Lavington 35 def Yarrawonga 31; Wangaratta Rovers 44 def Corowa-Rutherglen 27; Albury 27 def by Wodonga Raiders 54; Wodonga 60 def Myrtleford 32.

UNDER 15s: North Albury 46 def Wangaratta 38; Wodonga 17 def by Myrtleford 29; Lavington 44 def Yarrawonga 18; Wangaratta Rovers 66 def Corowa-Rutherglen 25; Albury 31 def by Wodonga Raiders 35.

WODONGA RAIDERS vs WANG ROVERS

COROWA RUTHERGLEN vs NORTH ALBURY

WANGARATTA vs WODONGA - 6pm

MYRTLEFORD vs YARRAWONGA ALBURY vs LAVINGTON

Wangaratta Rovers 14.17.101 def

Corowa R’glen 1.5.11

BEST: WANGARATTA ROVERS: Harry McMonigle, Samuel Comensoli, Cody Johnson, Jez Rigoni, Rory Harvey, Oscar Clelland. COROWA R’GLEN: Brodie Eyers, Benji Hanrahan, Lucas Tafft, Luke Nicholson, Tex Longmire, Brodie Julian. GOALS: WANGARATTA ROVERS: Cody

Johnson 3, Jock Correll 2,

Wangaratta 11.9.75

BEST: NORTH ALBURY : Toby Hunt, Rhys Wall, Zach Graham, Max Heriot, Tyrone Ellis. WANGARATTA: Max Bihun, Josh Styles, Mitchell Schultz, Charlie Kerwin, Hugh Cannin. GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: Max Heriot 3, Tyrone Ellis 1. WANGARATTA: Max Bihun 4, Asher Simmonds 2, John Blake 1, Hugh Canning 1, Charlie Eames 1, Charlie Kerwin 1, Corey Petersen 1. Wodonga 9.6.60 def Myrtleford 6.7.43

BEST: WODONGA: James Grohmann, Chad Brookes, Isaac O’Neill, Riley Chant, Jeremy Stone, Jed Hodgkin. MYRTLEFORD: Patrick McLean, Jude Browne, Jock Pascoe, Harry Stripeikis, Nicholas Hall, Fearghus Jones. GOALS: WODONGA: James Grohmann 2, James Mansfield 2, Nate Redcliffe 2, Archer Andrews 1, Beau Nicklin 1, Jeremy Stone 1. MYRTLEFORD: Jock Pascoe 2, Harry Stripeikis 2, Nicholas Hall 1, Angus Smiles 1. Albury 8.10.58 def by Wod. Raiders 9.10.64

Lavington 11.16.82 def Yarrawonga 0.2.2

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

A GRADE: Bright 21 def by Milawa 40

Benalla 39 def by Whorouly 43

Greta 63 def Goorambat 18

North Wangaratta 24 def by Moyhu 57

Tarrawingee 48 def King Valley 36

B GRADE: Bright 28 def by Milawa 49; Benalla 9 def by Whorouly 59; Greta 42 def Goorambat 23; North Wangaratta 26 def by Moyhu 44; Tarrawingee 56 def King Valley 25

B RESERVE: Bright 21 def by Milawa 52; Greta 60 def Goorambat 25; North Wangaratta 23 def by Moyhu 45; Tarrawingee 40 def by King Valley 45

C GRADE: Bright 35 def Milawa 19; Benalla 5 def by Whorouly 49; Greta 36 def Goorambat 25; Nth Wangaratta 24 def by Moyhu 46; Tarrawingee 24 def by King Valley 45

UNDER 15s: Bright 12 def by Milawa 22; Benalla 13 def by Whorouly 23; Greta 52 def Goorambat 1; North Wangaratta 30 def Moyhu 26; Tarrawingee 14 def by King Valley 17

BENALLA vs BRIGHT GOORAMBAT vs KING VALLEY

Albury ....................12.13.85

Wodonga ...................3.6.24

BEST: ALBURY: Zach Sears, Rhys King, Jonathan Male, Hogan Quinn, Zachariah Packer, Rory Parnell.

WODONGA: Ben Hernan, Harry Sweetman, Zac Whitsed, Baxter Jones, Jackson Casey, Justin Gordon.

GOALS: WANGARATTA ROVERS: Alexander Marklew 4, Shane Gaston 3, Stuart Booth 2, Dylan Wilson 2, Brodie Filo 1, Lochie O’Brien 1, Ky Williamson 1. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: Sam Dunstan 5, Darcy Hope 1, Nicholas Wright 1. BEST: WANGARATTA ROVERS: Will Christie, Lochie O’Brien, Shane Gaston, Samuel Cattapan, Dylan Wilson, Elijah Amery.

COROWA RUTHERGLEN: Brady Morton, Scott Jansen, Darcy Hope, Christian Masson Moyle, Bailey Pirnag, Jedd Longmire.

GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: Nathan Dennis 5, Joshua Minogue 2, Tim Broomhead 1, Archer Gardiner 1, Cody Gardiner 1, Jack Penny 1. WANGARATTA: Fraser Holland-Dean 2, Michael

Newton 2, Fraser Ellis 1, Bradley Melville 1, Callum Moore 1, Charlie Naish 1. BEST: NORTH

ALBURY: Nathan Dennis, Julian Hayes, George Godde, Sam Azzi, Fletcher Ramage, Jackson

Weidemann. WANGARATTA: Michael Bordignon, Chris Knowles, Harrison Smart, Bradley Melville, Fraser Ellis, Patrick Naish.

GOALS: WODONGA: Noah Spiteri 2, Kyle Winter-Irving 2, Riley Gill 1, Ethan Redcliffe 1, Oscar Willding 1. MYRTLEFORD: Matthew Munro 2, Brody Ricardi 2, Riley Calvene 1, Simon Curtis 1, Damon Harrington 1. BEST: WODONGA: Jack O’Sullivan, Joshua Mathey, Charlie Morrison, Mitchell Dinneen, Noah Bradshaw, Ollie Greenhill. MYRTLEFORD: Matthew Munro, Zac Pethybridge, Lachlan P Hourigan, Brody Ricardi, Jaxon East, Simon Curtis.

GOALS: LAVINGTON: Tim Oosterhoff 4, Conor Willis 2, Tim Hanna 1, Judd Mcleod 1. YARRAWONGA: Leigh Williams 4, Matthew Casey 2, Ben Coghill 1, Nicholas Fothergill 1, Logan Morey 1. BEST: LAVINGTON: Nick Paton,

Wang Rovers ........30.24.204

Corowa-R’glen ...........2.3.15

Waitai Tua, Will O’keefe, Joshua Hedin, Archie Storer.

Wodonga ..................8.5.53

Myrtleford .................7.6.48

BEST: WODONGA: Connor Brodie, Kade Brown, Ashton Brookes, Harry Baxter, Gus Jones, Jake Hodgkin.

MYRTLEFORD: Addison

Bedendo, Ned Turner, Tom Crisp, Rhys Grant, Harry McKerral.

Lavington ...............11.10.76

Yarrawonga .................1.2.8

LAVINGTON: Jack Daly, Neil Smith, Hunter Galvin, Josh Roscarel, James Oeser, Campbell McCrae.

YARRAWONGA: Douglas Arnold, Matt McCabe, Lochie Forge, Cameron Tregenza, Mitchell Parker, Cory Pearn.

GOALS: BRIGHT: Cooper Thomason 3, Declan Bren 2, Samuel Dalbosco 2, Luke Quirk

2, Riley Bacon 1, Patrick Bren 1, James Love 1, Mikka Paulsen 1. MILAWA: Brady Bartlett 1, Sebastian De Napoli 1, James Flynn 1. BEST: BRIGHT: Alexander Dalbosco, Samuel Dalbosco, Joe Gray, Riley Bacon, Michael Elliott, Tyler Thomason. MILAWA: Xavier Ham, Brady Bartlett, Brandon Fitzpatrick, Simon Pane, Josh Owen, Kyle Collisson.

BENALLA

WHOROULY

GOALS: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Dylan Sinclair 2, Michael Ryan 1. WHOROULY: Joshua Newton 3, Lachlan Moore 2, Andrew Newton 2, Edward Bramich 1, Dylan Gephart 1, Paul Glanville 1, Matthew Harris 1, Glenn White 1. BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Dwaine Lancaster, Jordan Smith, Sam Cox, David Button, Chelton Orchard, Damian Broughton. WHOROULY: Paul Glanville, Andrew Newton, Oliver Dixon, Edward Woolford, Samuel Piazza, Matthew Vescio.

GRETA

GOORAMBAT

GOALS: GRETA: Cody Crawford 5, Frazer Judd 5, Brenton Newbold 3, James McClounan 2, Bradley Whinray 2, Lachie Kennett 1, Brodie Pearson 1. GOORAMBAT: Duane Haebich 4, Brayden Stepien 2, Samuel Gladstone 1. BEST: GRETA: James McClounan, Jack Kelly, Tyler Arrowsmith, Lachie Kennett, Frazer Judd, Tom Fursdon. GOORAMBAT: Benjamin Reaburn, John House, Sully Malay, Angus Burston, Brayden Wapling, Jamie Dunne.

NORTH WANG

GOALS: NORTH WANGARATTA: Tyler Nanson 3, Jhye Devine 2, Liam McDonell 1, Kade Parkinson 1. MOYHU:

MILAWA - BYE

Lions maul Panthers in first hit-out MATCH REVIEWS

WHOROULY’S senior football squad launched their 2024 campaign with a resounding win over Benalla All Blacks on the road, comfortable victors 12.20 (92) to 3.11 (29).

The new-look Lions took some time to work into the match, but once they found their feet, there was no stopping them.

From a two goal lead at quarter time, Whorouly upped the pressure, generating 17 scoring shots to half-time and taking a 31-point lead into the second half.

Whorouly’s defensive unit held firm, with Paul Glanville leading allcomers in intercept marks, while the midfield transitioned the ball into the forward 50 with class.

Glanville took out best on ground honours, while Eddie Woolford, Sam Piazza and Ollie Dixon performed well.

Coach Lachy Moore said it was a great way to start the season.

“It was really good, we were able to go out there and pretty much play the way we wanted to play,” he said.

“We had a couple of guys who had certain things they wanted to get out of it, and us up forward were able to have an impact.

STORIES

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

“They still have some pretty good talent in among the squad, even through a bit of adversity.

“I don’t know whether we started slow and found our straps or whatever it was, but we were able to kick it into gear through the middle of the game and looked pretty dangerous.”

The only thing marring an otherwise solid performance was the lack of conversion on looks on goal, the Lions finishing with 20 behinds.

Moore said it was something to work on, but he was happy with how all the new players at the club gelled together with the established list.

“I guess the positive is we had plenty of looks at it, but there were too many points,” he said.

“I had six, Andy (Newton) had four or five. It’s lucky that didn’t come back to bite us, but at least we were getting positive looks and plenty of movement into the forward line.

“A few of them have been out

of footy for a while, it was Eddie Woolford’s first proper game for a few years, and (Dylan) Gephart’s first game in a few years.

“It was that mix of fresh blood and veterans that help us out, with Paul Glanville getting best on ground to steady the ship, Glenn (White) had a pretty good captain’s game and was able to lead by example.”

The Lions will look to maintain momentum this weekend, up against North Wangaratta at Whorouly for the first time since last season, where a scoreboard error handed the game to the Hawks after the siren.

“I’m pretty excited, I consider North Wangaratta a bit of a rival over the last couple of years, with the after the siren dilemma which happened last year, and a few close bouts,” Moore said.

“We’re around the same mark, both up and coming.

“They’re coming off a loss so they’re going to be pretty hungry to get one back, and I want to keep the wins flowing.

“They have the Nanson boys (Josh and Tyler) over there, we’ll have to be very wary of them, but I think we just worry about ourselves.”

Lions’ netballers execute stunning comeback

TRAILLING by seven goals in the final quarter may cause many teams to drop their heads, but Whorouly’s A grade squad fought hard to take the points over Benalla All Blacks 43-39.

The Lions were behind for most of the match, but turned it on when they needed to in their first hitout of the 2024 O&K season.

A six-goal deficit early was pared back to four by quarter time, as early errors were tidied up by the Lions.

Some positional changes at half-time led to a massive fightback through the third, with the height of Ebony Allen and Ebony Hughes in the defensive end lifting the overall defensive pressure and causing crucial turnovers.

Working hard, Whorouly

brought it level by three quarter time, setting the stage for a massive final term.

Coach Kelly Cousins said the win was a true testament to the drive behind the team.

“I am super proud of the girls and their ability to grind out a win,” she said.

“At one stage I think Benalla’s lead may have got out to seven, so to turn that around to a four-goal win is quiet a momentum swing and is a credit to the girls determination.

“They all just put their heads down and put in the hard work to chip away at Benalla’s lead.

“We really didn’t do anything impressive to turn the game around, we just looked at going back to our systems

and executing the simple things consistently.”

Cousins said the slow start was something the team can work on going forward, and adapting to a fierce opposition.

“I think we fell down in both attack and defence in the first 10 minutes of the game,” she said.

“We weren’t executing our set plays and just made a few uncharacteristic skill errors.

“Full credit to the Panthers who dominated in all areas from the first whistle and didn’t give our girls a chance right from the get go.

“It was then just about not panicking and getting back to how we know we can play and grinding out the rest of the match.”

The Lions will prepare for their first home game of the season this weekend against North Wangaratta, set to play their inaugural match on their newly refurbished courts.

“We are really excited for our first home match this season, we can’t wait to showcase our new courts to the rest of the league,” Cousins said.

“We’ll be looking to address our slow start from round two and take on some learning opportunities from that match.

“Essentially, we’ll be looking to not stray too far from what we know works for us.”

It was a clean-sweep for Whorouly on the court, with the B grade (59-9), C grade (49-5), and under 15s (23-13) all recording comfortable victories.

Bright storms home over Demons MATCH REVIEWS

By NATHAN DE VRIES

THE Mountain Men successfully defended their fortress in trying conditions on the weekend, downing Milawa by 62 points.

After conceding two early goals, Bright clicked into gear, overpowering the Demons to take the four points 13.8 (86) to 3.6 (24).

In wet and stormy conditions, old school football prevailed, but Bright’s forwards were able to get clear looks on goal, progressing a six point lead at quarter time to a four goal advantage by the half.

The defenders cleared the ball well, with the Demons only finding three minor scores in the middle two quarters.

Up front, Bright showed their class, producing six goal final term to secure the win.

Eight players kicked a goal for the Mountain Men, with Alexander Dalbosco, Joe Gray and Michael Elliott

among the best on ground.

Coach Paul Harrison said it was a brilliant performance from the entire list.

“It was just a really strong effort across the board, same as last week,” he said.

“Our best players (awards) could’ve gone to 15 players, our depth is really good at the moment, everyone knows their role and is playing their role really well.

“We had to get back to pretty basic footy on the weekend to be honest, it was pretty oldschool, it rained for the majority of the day.

“It was more about winning stoppages, winning clearances, gaining meterage when we can, keeping the ball locked in the forward half as long as we can.

“I was pretty pleased with our skills on such a day as well, we were able to gain the ball really well through the corridor so we could still get good looks going inside forward 50 instead.”

The conditions produced

some chaotic footy at times, with several Mountain Men sustaining minor or moderate injuries.

“We actually played the last five to seven minutes with 17 players,” Harrison said.

“We lost Max Stevens in the first 10 minutes to a knee injury, lost Tyler Thomason at the end of the second to a knee injury who was probably our best on ground at that stage, then Jai Dykstra hurts his shoulder and ribs in the third quarter, James Love got a bit of a knock

“Max Stevens is probably going to be six to eight weeks, Tyler Thomason would miss a couple, the other boys will be OK.”

Bright heads on the road after two matches at home, up against Benalla All Blacks at Friendlies Oval – from their two encounters last season, Bright won by a combined margin of 239 points.

The reserves also had a handy win, coming home winners 7.4 (46) to Milawa’s 4.6 (30).

Valiant Bright netballers defeated by Dees

By NATHAN DE VRIES

BRIGHT’S A grade netball squad performed admirably against one of the league’s top sides on the weekend, but suffered a 21-40 loss.

Milawa, the 2023 A grade runners up, shot out of the blocks to an eight goal lead by quarter time, but Bright’s iron-clad defensive unit weathered much of the storm, keeping the margin at eight points to half-time against some of the best shooters going around.

Bright moved the ball well and defended hard, but couldn’t take that last shot to put the ball through the ring, heading into the final term trailing by 12 goals.

The sodden conditions on the court due to persistent rainfall didn’t help, with the water slowing down any potential quick plays.

A grade co-coach Kate Buckley said it was a challeng-

ing day for all players, and her defenders stood up well.

“Similar to Tarrawingee, Milawa just got a good start on us, we just couldn’t get on the scoreboard in the beginning, they got a pretty good lead right off the bat and then just extended from there,” she said.

“Our defence is really holding the team up at the moment, they’re doing an

amazing job and working well together.

“Getting the ball down the court, we’re not having any issues with that, it’s more so getting it into that goal ring and then getting the goals through the ring.

“We’re definitely working on our shooting and our feeding.

“Credit to Milawa’s defenders, they were quite out-

standing actually, the whole four quarters they really gave us a good challenge.”

Defender Molly Whitty produced a brilliant performance for her team, with plenty of positives to take away from a strong performance against a legitimate premiership contender.

“They (Milawa) don’t miss very often, similar to Tarrawingee, but the fact that

it’s not getting blown out any further is really good and a positive that we’re seeing,” Buckley said.

“They could be doubling that margin and they’re not, our defenders are really helping with that.

“Molly Whitty from under 17s who came up this year, she got best on court.

“She’s learning a lot, she’s great to coach, she listens

and takes on board every bit of feedback she gets, and you can see she implements it into the next game or at training.”

Bright head across to Friendlies Oval this weekend to take on the also-winless Benalla All Blacks, with Buckley confident her side could string together a winning performance.

“We are looking forward to this game,” she said.

“We started off with two top teams, and we don’t really know where Benalla sits, like us they’re trying to find their feet after a few rounds.

“With our attacking end, we’ll really try and work out what’s working and what’s not working, fine-tuning a few things, trying new combinations.”

In other matches from the weekend, the under 17s side took a 35-19 win, while the B grade (28-49), B reserve (21-51) and under 15s (12-22) came up short.

MATCH REVIEWS

Lack of efficiency sinks Saints

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

STORIES MYRTLEFORD’S senior football squad will be hard at work fixing some of the flaws which cost the Saints against Wodonga on the weekend.

The Saints had more than enough of the footy but failed to capitalise inside the forward 50, downed 7.4 (46) to the Bulldogs’ 7.19 (61).

In blustery conditions at Martin Park, Myrtleford led at the first change, but a massive fightback from the Bulldogs had scores level by the half.

With their midfield and backline providing plenty of possession, the Saints were inefficient going inside 50, while the Bulldogs were hitting their targets when they needed to.

Coach Craig Millar said while the result was disappointing, there were definite positives to take from the match.

“It’s another narrow defeat, but one where there was a lot of learning from it,” he said.

“Looking at the stats, we won the hit-outs to advantage, we won clearances, we won centre clearances, we really did quite well with first use of the footy, but unfortunately it was our inability to go inside and efficiently take marks inside 50, that’s where I felt we really

struggled.

“We had a similar inside 50 count to last week, but we just couldn’t score from it, unfortunately.

“Their defence was just too solid, and they made it really difficult, so we’ll need to have a look at that, reassess, and see what tweaks we can make to it to try and improve our score efficiency.”

Brody Ricardi and Matt Munro snagged two goals each, with plenty of Saints showing signs of improvement.

“Bowen Cologero played a lot better game this week than he did last week, Brody Ricardi popped up and kicked another couple of goals as a key forward for us, he’s been great,” Millar said.

“Frazer Dale had 33 disposals on the weekend, he’s starting to hit his straps, Jaxon East is getting better each week, Matty Munro was outstanding for us, I thought he was one of our best players.

“The good thing is some of our experienced players are starting to find their feet, now we just need some of those young blokes to

take their game to another level.

“That will be our challenge for our squad overall, but we’ve still got a bit of work to do.”

The Saints will be back home this weekend against reigning premiers Yarrawonga, who are yet to drop a game.

The #BeKindToYourMind Shield will be contested across the day’s football and netball matches, with the club with the most wins claiming the shield in the much loved Mental Health Round clash.

“We’re really proud to be a part of a club that’s shown great initiative there with Alpine Health and a number of other third parties, that’s fantastic,” Millar said.

“To take on the premiers, we’re looking forward to the challenge.

“I feel like we’ve played two good sides, and no doubt it’s going to test us this week, but we’re looking forward to the challenge of playing against the best and seeing exactly where we’re at.”

In other football results, it was a day of narrow results, with the reserves coming five points shy (7.6.48 to 8.5.53), and the reserves downed by 17 (6.7.43 to 9.6.60).

Myrtleford Saints fall short of comeback glory

A TENACIOUS Myrtleford

A grade squad fell short of a brilliant comeback in their weekend clash with the Bulldogs, downed 41-45.

After a sluggish start which saw the Saints trail by eight goals at half-time, Myrtleford turned it on and brught the margin back to four at the final break.

Defenders Tina Way and Rebecca Piazza produced some brilliant turnovers and catapulted the ball through the midcourt to star shooter Daisy O’ Kane.

The heavens opened in the final quarter, making clean netball all but impossi-

ble, but somehow the Saints brought the margin to four goals at the final whistle.

Coach Olivia La Spina said if the squad could find form from the start, they’d be tough to beat.

“It was a bit similar to last week where we just had a bit of a slow start and it just caught up to us in the end,” she said.

“We were able to get in front in the last quarter but just struggled to hold on.

“It was one of those games where the first 15 minutes really cost us in the end.

“Credit to Wodonga, they were a really solid team and

have been building for a few years.

“It‘s frustrating, but there are still lots of positives from the game.”

New names to the club, Daisey O’Kane and Maddy Martin, performed well in just their second match with the Saints, and La Spina said everyone was progressing nicely.

“We had three new girls on the court on the weekend with Ava Brock coming up and playing for us, and on netball, to have three girls out of seven new, it does take a lot of getting used to,” she said.

“I think we’ll get there, we

have spoken as a team trying to figure out what the best route is to go to make sure we’re setting ourselves up for success from that first centre pass.

“There are lots of positives, and I couldn’t be prouder of the girls in their want to fight back – two weeks in a row we’ve been able to fight back, and you can’t really coach for that, they’ve got to want to fight back themselves for their teammates.

“I felt like Maddy Martin had a really solid game in the midcourt, she found her own in that centre posi-

tion in the second half of the game and was able to give us that drive and depth that we needed.

“It also allowed Evie (Hughes) to sink back into wing defence for a period of time and get some crucial turnovers, that was really positive.”

The Saints will be back at McNamara Reserve this weekend for the club’s beloved Mental Health Round against Yarrawonga.

“We had a really great win against them late last year, we’ll be able to go in with a lot of confidence knowing that,” La Spina said.

“Yarrawonga have been the pinnacle of A grade Ovens and Murray netball for almost 15 years.

“We know they’re really strong competition and they’ll throw everything at us.

“It’s also a confidence booster knowing we got them last year, and it’s something we can keep building on this week.”

In other matches from the weekend, the B grade squad fought out a gritty 49-49 draw, the C grade (31-52) and under 17s (32-60) came up short, while the under 15s took a win 29-17.

SAFE: Zac Pethybridge floats across and takes an intercept mark in defence.

CLEARED: Matt Munro sends the Saints inside 50 against Wodonga on the weekend.

CAUGHT: Lachlan Murphy-Dale brings down Wodonga’s Noah Bradshaw, while Frazer Dale gathers the ball. PHOTOS: Janet Watt

CLOSE PASS: Olivia La Spina positions herself to take possession of the ball, under pressure from Wodonga’s Aleischa Coyle.

OPEN: Daisy O’Kane waits for the pass under the ring.

REBOUND: Maddy Martin moves the ball out of the defensive end in the Saints’ four-goal loss to Wodonga. PHOTOS: Janet Watt

Young Bombers are back in town

By DANIEL SAVILLE

FOR the first time in five years, Dederang-Mount Beauty’s thirds football side have taken to the field in the Tallangatta and District Football League in what is a significant occasion for the club.

The team, which will primarily consist of players aged between 14 and 16, provides an important pathway and platform to open-age football which has been missing due to a lack of numbers in the past few years.

After their drought-breaking under fourteen premiership in 2023, the under 17 side reformed with a combination of current, returning and new footballers to don the red sash this season.

The importance of this team has not been lost on co-coach Duane Gardiner, who along with Heath Fallon, is leading the team which gives these young men an outlet which hasn’t been available to junior footballers in the region since 2020.

“We were definitely at the crossroads - had we not rallied together and re-established the team, our kids would have gone in all directions for football and it’s very hard to draw them back once they’re established at another club,” Gardiner said.

“It is super important for the younger players to have the big boys around and they really look up to the under 17 group.

“The club is very excited to be putting a thirds team on the field and they have been super supportive of the junior program.”

As a token of their appreciation and support, Dederang-Mount Beauty Football Netball Club has subsidised junior registration fees across all grades.

■ Continued page 17

Super Savoy

LET IT RAIN

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

MYRTLEFORD’S senior men handed Albury United arguably the biggest shock result of the year so far, with last season’s FA Cup and league champions downed 2-0 by Myrtleford.

Savoy came out with intensity, eager to avenge their loss in the cup final, and shined in defence.

The first goal came when Jake Miles won a penalty in the 43rd minute, which was soundly put away by Matt Richardson to give Savoy the lead.

Will Keenan made it 2-0 after half-time, but United threatened after Myrtleford’s Yaw Han Ngai was sent off with a second yellow card, Savoy down to 10 men.

Down back, the experience of Brenton Cook and Matt Vaccaro was on full display, while keeper Nathan Gleeson was impenetrable.

Coach Jayden Vescio said it was a brilliant effort across the park.

“I think the boys really stood up, they obviously lost the Cup final to United last year, so there was a little bit of a point to prove, try and get one back on them early in the season, and we managed to do that,” he said.

“We started the game well, they’ve got three really good high players and we dealt with them well enough early.

“Nathan Gleeson made a couple of good saves early, and defensively we were quite sound.

“I felt like we got a lot of space through the middle of the park, and once our defenders stood up they attacked in waves and we looked quite dangerous on the break.

“It was a really good United team, they played well, they’d probably say we were lucky to come away with a win but the scoreline was 2-0 and we’ll take that every day of the week.”

■ Continued page 18

JOE Gray wins the ruck contest in Bright’s match with Milawa on Saturday. The Mountain Men restricted Milawa to just three goals for the match in wet conditions. Story page 21.

PHOTO: Richard Xerri