Everyone’s invited to celebrate the reopening of Myrtleford’s upgraded Ablett Pavilion
THE whole community is invited to join the Alpine Shire Council to celebrate the o cial reopening of Myrtleford’s newly upgraded Ablett Pavilion, from 5pm on Thursday, 15 May 2025.
The Pavilion has undergone a signi cant transformation to the rst oor over the past year, to enhance its function spaces and overall usability.
Key upgrades include:
A new rst- oor extension with a modern conference space, o ce, and storage
An expanded balcony and roof for improved shelter and viewing
A relocated and upgraded bar facing the balcony for better service and views
Skylights, new ooring and fresh paint in the kitchen
A new dry store and com-
mercial-sized cool room
A modernised façade and improved glazed windows o ering panoramic views of the playing eld and surrounding mountains
New front entry sliding doors, upgraded hot water systems and a refreshed lobby and public toilets.
McNamara Reserve committee president, Bob McNamara said he hoped renovations to the pavilion would transform the site into a versatile function centre and space for the whole community.
“That’s our aim,” Mr McNamara said.
“To open up the pavilion to more usability; more than just upgrading the clubrooms.
“Now I think we’ve got something that will last and benefit the shire and the community for the next
30 to 40 years.”
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, said council was thrilled that the newlook pavilion was ready for the community to enjoy.
“The Ablett Pavilion upgrade is a fantastic outcome for the Myrtleford community,” she said.
“These improvements not only enhance the experience for users but also create a more welcoming and functional space for events and gatherings.
“It’s a real asset for the region, and I commend the community members who brought the idea to life and worked closely with council to turn a dream into reality.”
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will mark the pavilion’s new chapter, followed by light refreshments and an opportunity to explore the upgraded facilities.
Bright to shine brighter thanks to $18,000
Tiny Towns Grant
THE Bright and District Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce it has secured an $18,000 Tiny Towns Grant from Business Victoria to fund the Ireland Street Illumination project, along with a Chamber contribution.
This exciting initiative will see the installation of innovative uplighting along the median strip of Ireland Street, designed to highlight the beauty of Bright’s iconic trees and enhance the nighttime atmosphere in the heart of town.
Ireland Street is a vibrant and picturesque destination by day, attracting visitors who enjoy its charm, hospitality and unique photo opportunities.
However, as evening falls, the lack of adequate lighting has long been seen as a missed opportunity to showcase the area’s full potential and support local businesses a er dark.
“This project responds directly to community feedback calling for improved nighttime light-
ing,” Chamber president, Marcus Warner said.
“By illuminating the trees from the ground up, we can create a stunning visual experience that encourages more people to enjoy our main street well into the evening.”
The current tree-mounted lights, installed over a decade ago, have become impractical due to ongoing tree maintenance and safety considerations.
The new ground-based uplights will be unaffected by tree growth and can be safely mowed over, ensuring long-term durability and minimal maintenance disruption.
With the Ireland Street Illumination project, the Chamber hopes to increase foot tra c in the evening, boost local trade and create a more inviting environment for both residents and tourists.
Installation will begin shortly, with completion expected later this year.
Volunteers to unite for Legacy Wood Day
VOLUNTEERS will unite this Sunday from 8.30am for this year’s Myrtleford Combined Services Wood Day.
The site for this year’s working-bee has been selected, with the timber all ready to cut, split and then deliver to those in the community who need it the most.
“‘Legacy Wood Day’ was started by local RSL members after World War I, to assist local war widows by gathering wood for winter,” Myrtleford RSL secretary, Dave Byrne said.
“As each of the clubs in town have changed over the years, Legacy Wood Day is now organised by the Lions, but it’s still officially run by the Myrtleford Combined Services committee; a joint collaboration of the RSL, Lions and Rotary Clubs.”
Myrtleford Lions Club president, Tom White,
said anyone who wants to volunteer on the day to help out will be most welcome.
Fellow Lions club member Paul Tanner said seeing key Myrtleford club members volunteer for Legacy Wood Day has had a fantastic effect on local community members.
“For the last five or six years the Myrtleford footy club has been involved,” he said.
“It’s really nice, not just because young blokes from the footy club are volunteering, but older members of the community get a kick out of seeing the local footy players helping out.”
Those in need within the community can reach out to the Lions club for more information.
There will be a barbeque on site afterwards for the volunteers to enjoy, run by Myrtleford’s Combined Services Club.
To volunteer, email: myrtleford.vic@lions.org.au
READY TO REOPEN: McNamara Reserve committee president, Bob McNamara and Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas toured the new facility, which will have increased capacity and first-class amenities for events ranging from sporting functions to community gatherings.
PHOTO: Phoebe Morgan.
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT IN BRIGHT: Upgrades to light installations in Ireland Street will begin later this year a er feedback from local businesses.
PHOTO: Bright Chamber of Commerce
LEGACY LOGS: Ready to help at this Sunday’s Myrtleford Combined Services Legacy Wood Day are (from le ): Myrtleford RSL members Joe Caruana, Mario De Grazia, Jim Piazza and Brian McDonald; Lions club members Chris Buono, Paul Tanner and president Tom White; and Myrtleford Saints Footy Club members Charlie Crisp, captain Mitch Dalbosco and Ashton McPherson.
PHOTO: Phoebe Morgan
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Hotham fires up snow guns ahead of the winter season
EARLY START: Hotham snowmaking and grooming manager Jesse Ruming on the tools last Thursday morning for the first snowmaking test of the year.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Rethink needed on fuel reduction burns
AS residents of the upper Kiewa Valley, we have been engulfed, once again, by acrid smoke from the FFMV annual autumn fuel reduction burning program.
Normally this industrial scale burning is undertaken in remote areas of the North East Victorian forests that are inconvenient to access.
MT HOTHAM kicked its snow guns into action last week, in an encouraging sign a month out from the scheduled start of the 2025 winter season.
The temperature dropped to a chilly -4 degrees at Hotham last Thursday morning and the snow making team were on hand to re up the snow guns for the rst test run for the season.
Jesse Ruming, Hotham snowmaking and grooming manager, said it was the perfect opportunity to test the summer snowmaking pipeline upgrade project with everything connected and working perfectly.
However, this year FFMV has conducted an extensive burn along the Survey Track walking/ biking trail to the south of the Mt Beauty Golf Course.
I would highly recommend that Alpine Shire residents either take a walk along the Survey Track or simply drive towards Cranky Charlie on the Bogong High Plains road to view the results of this burning.
An area of forest that was environmentally a pleasant place to walk - a vibrant forest landscape with signi cant ora
“We got a really good morning here with cold temperatures and really favourable snowmaking conditions,” he said.
“It’s great to test the guns in lead in to the season so we’re ready to make snow at every opportunity as we get closer to the scheduled season opening.”
Hotham’s mountain operations team will continue to watch the weather and make the most of any snowmaking windows in the lead up to the Kings Birthday long weekend, which is the scheduled resort opening and when retail and food and beverage venue’s across the resort open for the snow season.
and fauna including native orchids, millions of insects, rodents, lizards, snakes, frogs and abundant birdlife - now everything in this area of the forest has been incinerated.
The birds may have largely escaped the smoke and ames, but they won’t be back because the food chain has been completely destroyed.
Every plume of autumn smoke you see is repeating this industrial scale ecosystem destruction.
Unfortunately, the annual
burning is dictated by government edict, not supported by modern science.
Science from the ANU clearly indicates that this industrial burning does not reduce the impact of wild res and can actually increase the danger. We, as rural residents, need to make the e ort to understand the modern science and engage with all levels of government to bring this annual industrial scale ecological destruction to a rapid end.
Keith Boxer, Tawonga South
LETTERS to the editor must be signed with the full name, address and contact telephone number of the author provided. Letters under 250 words are preferred and we reserve the right to edit letters to fit available space. Nom de plumes will only be published at the editor’s discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by this newspaper.
Email: edit.timesobserver@nemedia.com.au
Post: North East Media 76 Standish Street, Myrtleford, Vic 3737
$1M renewal of Myrtleford Memorial Hall is underway
By JEFF ZEUSCHNER
LONG-awaited construction works to renew Myrtleford Memorial Hall started last week.
External and internal works are being completed by Joss Facility Management Pty Ltd, which was awarded the contract for a lump sum of $1,238,636 (GST exclusive) by Alpine Shire Council in January this year.
Major works include the construction of a new Visitor Information Centre, accessible amenities, improved stage access, a new automated accessible entrance, entrance ramp, and accessible paved courtyard.
The project is expected to result in a modern, multipurpose, and exible community space that is inclusive and accessible to all.
The hall, built in 1924, served as a cinema and dance hall to the community for much of its life, but it has sat idle for more than a decade with its state of disrepair exacerbated by a major roof leak in 2018.
Concerted e orts by Alpine Shire Council and the community since 2020 saw government funding for the works secured, and plans
revised to overcome some of the building’s design and construction challenges.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, said this was a de ning moment for the Myrtleford Memorial Hall.
“It is very exciting to see the hard work of council sta and the Community Reference Group come to-
gether at this construction phase,” she said.
“This has been a long time coming for the Myrtleford community and we’re thrilled to be one step closer to delivering this facility back to the people who will treasure it most.”
Alpine Shire Council has provided more than
$250,000 to the project, with the remainder being funded by Victorian and Australian governments.
Council advised that during the construction period the Myrtleford Neighbourhood Centre will continue its normal operations, maintaining their regular opening hours.
By JEFF ZEUSCHNER
MORE than $120,000 will be pumped into five community spaces in the Alpine Shire as part of a $5.1 million statewide push to help make Victoria’s smallest towns better places to live, work, stay and play.
Victorian Minister for Regional Development, Jaclyn Symes, on Friday announced Bright, Dinner Plain, Harrietville and Gundowring communities were among those to be funded under the government’s Tiny Towns Fund.
In Bright, the Bright United Football and Netball Club has received $17,104 to help upgrade its storage, while Bright Chamber of Commerce Inc has received $18,160 for its Ireland Street illumination project.
An alternative entrance has been provided, with signage posted outside of the centre.
To keep up to date with the Myrtleford Memorial Hall Renewal Project, community members are encouraged to visit the project page on Engage Alpine and select ‘follow’.
Dinner Plain Community Association has received $41,025 for the Dinner Plain Community Garden; Harrietville Off Road Cycling has received $37,300 for the Harrietville Trails Masterplan; and Gundowring Hall & Reserve Incorporated has received $16,088 to help bolster storage facilities at Gundowring Hall & Reserve.
Some 159 successful projects shared in $5.1 million in round two of the Tiny Towns Fund, selected in rural and regional towns of fewer than 5000 people.
WORKS STARTED: Myrtleford’s Memorial Hall is undergoing a $1 million renewal.
Harrietville Hall grand reopening
THE Harrietville community celebrated the completion of the hall upgrade project last Saturday with stunning autumn weather and colour turning out.
About 50 locals enjoyed the sunshine and sausages along side representatives from funding organisations including Emergency Recovery Victoria, Bright Community Bank and Alpine Shire Council.
The upgrades include a new meeting room, new disabled amenities, a covered outdoor space addressing the Ovens River, new entry and a refurbished kitchen.
The new and upgraded spaces provide more options for community activities and events and better engage the hall with the Ovens River and the town streetscape.
“It’s taken a long time to
get to this stage,” chair of the Harrietville Hall committee, Simon Jones said. “The main thing that kept us all committed to the project is the fact we knew the refurbishments would be benecial to the whole community.”
The project was identi ed as a priority by the Harrietville community following the 2012-13 Bush re event.
The hall committee initially received a grant from the Harrietville Community Forum to develop a concept plan for upgrading the hall to strengthen community resilience and preparedness for emergency situations.
The committee worked with architect Leigh Rizzato of JWP Architects to develop the concept plan which was nalised in 2017.
The hall committee then commenced fundraising and
ALL HANDS TO HELP THE HALL: (from le ) Harrietville Hall Management Committee members; Bruce ‘Fridge’ Adair, Joe Romeo, Simon Reggie Jones, Rolf Schonfeld, Roger Haddrell and Dave Blackman were pleased to celebrate the o icial unveiling of the refurbished site a er years of dedication.
seeking grants to realise the communities vision for upgrading the hall including running movie nights and Fitski, a fun pre-winter tness program.
While these fundraising activities were a lot of fun and brought the community together they would not gen-
erate the funds necessary to deliver the vision for the upgrades.
However in 2020 the hall committee was successful in receiving a grant through the Local Economic Recovery program administered by Emergency Recovery Victoria, (formerly Bush re Re-
covery Victoria). Unfortunately the project was set back by the impacts of covid including substantial construction cost increases.
While additional funding was to assist with rescoping the project, tender pricing for the amended scope of works was still too high for the project to proceed.
Recognising the plight of the committee, the Bright Community Bank stepped in to help with a grant and also assist the hall committee to secure an additional $50,000 grant from the Community Enterprise Foundation.
The combined funding was adequate for the committee engage local builder Excelsior Masterbuilders, who also contributed in kind to the project, to deliver the upgrade works.
A successful project outcome has been achieved through the nancial support provided by project sponsors and the hard work and commitment of the local Harrietville community, Excelsior Masterbuilders, Ben Carton Electrical and Apex Plumbing.
The Harrietville community thanks the Victorian Government, Bright Community Bank, the Community Enterprise Foundation and the Alpine Shire Council for their nancial support for this project.
The Harrietville Hall is open for bookings with current activities including Yoga on Wednesday evening and Fitski on Saturday mornings until the turns are real.
For bookings email: harrietvillhallbookings@gmail. com.
Sun shines on Mother’s Day lunch at Sole E Luna
By PHOEBE MORGAN
MOTHER’S Day luncheon was reinstated at Sole E Luna in Bright, with dozens of attendees converging to celebrate their beloved mothers, sisters, aunts and grandmothers on Sunday.
“We had a good turn out this year,” restaurant owner, Frank Martinez said.
“Everyone was happy and they had a nice, relaxing time.
“Everyone was raving about the food, but they also said it was too much food; so they all had to go for a walk a erwards down along the river.”
EXTENDED FAMILY
EXPERIENCE: Noone went hungry at Mother’s Day lunch as Brynn, Brady and Remi Sharp, Cam, Bernie, Indy, Austin and Maureen Wickes and Kieren Jamieson enjoyed the a ernoon al fresco.
FRUITS OF THEIR LABOUR: Guests of honour, Connie and Emilio, Frank’s parents, enjoyed a delicious meal with ingredients sourced from their garden.
PHOTO: Frank Martinez
PHOTO: Bernie Wickes
PHOTOS: Harrietville Hall Committee
Bright mum inspires next generation to join the CFA
LEAH Chalwell has a passion for inspiring the next generation of women reghters and is encouraging other mums to join CFA.
The Bright mother’s decision to join CFA in 2018 came as a result of waiting at Bright Fire Station for her husband Rhett to come back from call outs.
Both of Leah’s children are now volunteers, including her 19-year-old daughter Grace and 17-year-old son Riley, who she wants to set a strong example for.
“I want to show my kids that mum is just as capable as anyone to be a re ghter and if I can do it, they can too,” Leah said.
“I know my limits as a woman, but I am always looking to push myself and that is the example I want to set for my daughter.
“Having a woman who can stand alongside her male counterparts sends a really strong message, especially in re ghting where it has traditionally been a man’s world.”
Leah said her experience as a volunteer has been a growth opportunity for her own skills.
“I have obtained my Me-
dium Rigid Truck Licence and completed Respond to Urban quali cations so I can be a more versatile member of our brigade,” she said.
Bright captain is keen to have more female members
BRIGHT CFA captain Brad Drennan is keen to have more female members in the brigade. He said of the brigade’s 26 operational volunteers, four are female - and they’re making tremendous contributions.
“Brigade members Leah and Grace Chalwell and Lily Grasser just recently attended an event and will be part of a North East women’s reference group in the CFA,” Brad said.
“We are seeing more female members join across the group.”
Brigade members held their AGM last week, electing their executive team for the next two years, which takes effect from July 1.
Brad was re-elected brigade captain, Brett Michie elected 1st Lieutenant, Jordan Grasser 2nd Lieutenant, Paul Mansfield 3rd Lieutenant, Jude Jessen 4th Lieutenant, Sherridan Gillham treasurer/secretary, and John Wymond as communications officer.
really helped with the kids so
“No matter where you are at, you can jump in and join
times having both the kids as volunteers too.
“I have had to learn that when the pager goes o , I am not their mum, instead
mum and dad have pushed me to continue to upskill, so I have taken CFA courses while having the year o ,” she said.
those who are eager to join.
“I was lucky for a period of time to have my mother in-law live with us, so to have her alongside our neighbours
“You may not be able to respond now but perhaps as time goes on you will.
“There are so many other roles you can do in CFA too.”
Bright has had a fire brigade for 133 years, and there remain strong family connections within the membership.
Anyone interested in joining the brigade is welcome to attend Monday evening training from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at the station in Churchill Avenue.
You can also email bright. capt@members.cfa.vic.gov.au or go to the CFA website to register interest in joining.
CFA FAMILY: Bright’s Chalwell family of (from le ) dad Rhett, Riley, mum Leah and Grace, together Leah’s brother Joel Sproule are all volunteer members of the Bright CFA.
PHOTO: CFA
Jo’s magical milestone, with many decades lived in beautiful Bright
JO Rennef is Bright’s latest centenarian, celebrating her 100 year milestone with family members and friends this month.
Commonly referred to as ‘Jo’, she was born ‘Jospehine Luttman-Johnson’ on 30 April, 1925 in Sussex, England and spent much of her early childhood living there with her aunt, uncle and cousin, as her mother sadly died when Jo was only seven years old.
She spent the early World War II years in Scotland before joining the Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRNS) when she was 19.
Later, Jo started training to be a nurse at the Middlesex Hospital in London in 1948 when she was 23.
Her nursing took her to Cape Town and Boston in the USA.
Back in London, she met her husband-to-be, Sidney Rennef, at a nurses’ dance.
A er marrying in 1961, they emigrated to Melbourne where they eventually moved to Brighton and raised their two children, Henrietta and Quentin.
The Rennef family discovered Bright in the mid-60s and they enjoyed many happy family holidays in the town during summers and winters.
Jo and Sid bought some land in 1972 on the Harrietville Road and local builder, Billy Lowens, built them an A-frame house which Jo still lives in today.
Jo and Sid retired to Bright in 1991.
As ‘locals’ they became involved with many of the di erent local groups over the years, such as Probus and the Bright Art Gallery.
Jo was a member of the Bright Music Group, garden club, meals on wheels and an op shop volunteer.
She also played tennis with the tennis club and was a member of one of the Bright book groups.
Jo still enjoys a stroll in the Arboretum, visits to Mt Buffalo, playing scrabble with her friends and her weekly pilates class.
She always looks forward to hearing from her grandson, who now lives in South Australia and news of his children, her great grandson
INTER-CONTINENTAL CARE:
Jo has practised nursing all over the world; starting as a Wren during WWII, she later worked in London, Boston and Cape Town.
and great granddaughter.
“We all had a great time at Mum’s big birthday bash, held the following Saturday,” Jo’s daughter, Henrietta said.
“What a big day; Election Day, the Autumn Festival Gala Parade and then a big birthday party.
“We had about 25 people over to Mum’s house for some bubbles, nibbles, pressies and speeches.
“Mum was pretty exhausted at the end, but happy.
“She even got her letter from the King and the prime minister.
“She is so well supported in the town by friends, neighbours and others.
“In her speech, she said the key to her long life was: great friends, family and a glass of wine a day.”
Marj Doe took flight to celebrate her centenary
By AILIE WITTING
FORMER
Myrtleford resident
Marjorie ‘Marj’ Doe got in some early celebrations for her 100th birthday with a hot air balloon ight over Whit eld.
The wonderful event preceded Marj turning 100 on Friday, 2 May.
In 1982, Marj moved to Myrtleford a er the death of her husband, Robert ‘Bob’ Doe, to be closer to her daughter, Jan Vonarx.
Marj was born on Saturday, 2 May 1925, to Henry Herbert Hall and Daisy Winifred Hall, in Fulham, London.
Unfortunately, on 14 April, 1938, when she was 13, her mother passed away of a heart attack.
At 15 years of age, Marj met her “one and only sweetheart”, Bob Doe.
At the age of 17, she joined the WAAF (Women’s Auxiliary Air Force) during the war, originally as a balloon operator - these balloons were used to stop low ying aircra s - but these operators were shortly disbanded as it became too dangerous for the women to continue.
This resulted in her becoming a carpenter for boxes that were sent overseas during the war.
In 1944, a er a long courtship, Marj and Bob married,
and she o cially became Marjorie Catherine Doe.
Marj was discharged in 1945, which resulted in her and Bob moving into a one-room at in Surrey, UK.
The couple did not have their rst child until 12 January 1949, and named him Geo rey ‘Geo ’ Robert Doe.
Two years later, on 11 April 1951, Marj and Bob had theirnal child, Jan, thus completing their family.
In 1958, Bob got a job in Nairobi, Kenya, leading Marj to join him with their two children, where they stayed for 10 years.
A er their time in Kenya, Marj, Bob and Jan - Geo had le Kenya some time ago for school - went back to England for some time, before Bob landed a job in Libya, where the three stayed until Gadda took control over the country.
They then went to Saudi Arabia.
Here, Bob had another heart attack - his rst having been in Kenya years prior - so the family moved back to England, where they lived in Epsom until Bob passed from a heart attack at 59, in 1982.
This led to Marj moving and spending the next 36 years living in Myrtleford.
“It’s a friendly place and I was
accepted there,” Marj said.
“I made quite a few friends.” Around 2019, Marj moved to Wangaratta, a er her daughter Jan moved closer to her own daughter, Marj’s grandchild, Pauline Vonarx.
Marj lived on her own until early 2023, when she su ered a small stroke and moved in with Jan and her husband, Les Vonarx, in their at.
Marj expressed her deepest gratitude to her daughter and son-in-law for taking such great care of her.
“I couldn’t ask for a better family, actually,” Marj said.
“It doesn’t happen o en with an elderly person, they get put on a shelf and that’s it, but I’m included in all the family events.”
To celebrate her milestone, Jan and Phillipa Witting, Marj’s grandchild, took Marj on a hot air balloon ride over Milawa through Whit eld.
“I had a fantastic time,” Marj said.
“If I can do it, anyone can.” She has lived her life to the fullest, watching her family grow for ve generations: seven grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and one great, great grandchild.
“We live in a beautiful area, so get out and enjoy it while you can,” Marj said.
SWEET SNAPSHOT: The sixties saw profound changes in Jo’s life, as she married Sidney Rennef and emigrated to Australia for a new adventure.
100 CANDLES: Jo Rennef celebrated at a book group friend’s house on her 100th birthday - Wednesday, 30 April.
UP, UP AND AWAY: Marj Doe was thrilled to celebrate her 100th birthday with a hot air balloon flight over Whitfield.
Dry conditions see 2000 head yarded at autumn cattle sale
PREVAILING dry conditions saw a much higher than expected yarding of 2000 head of predominantly local weaners from the Alpine, Ovens and King valleys go under the hammer at the Myrtleford Autumn Special Cattle Sale last Wednesday.
More than 100 people gathered in the Nutrien Ivone Yards, removing their hats and observing a moment of silence to the honour the memory of Stephen Paull - founding partner of Paull and Schollard Nutrien Ag Solutions - who passed away last month.
The auction, as expected, drew plenty of interest from northern buyers, keen to restock southern cattle on land in northern NSW and Queensland that unlike here, has enjoyed seasonally high rainfall.
“Certainly our dry conditions saw more local producers go a bit early with their calves...selling the mostly spring drop weaners, of ve to eight months, rather than try and carry them through winter into the spring, as feed and water is tight for many,” selling agent Dan Ivone said.
Despite the challenging conditions, Mr Ivone said stock yarded were in pretty good shape, but they sold a bit cheaper than two weeks ago.
“We’re seeing more stock into the markets, and we’ll see prices continue to fall given the dry conditions, but most of our vendors were pretty happy with their sales.”
Steer calves, weighing 200 to 300 kilos, made between $3.80 to $4.10 a kilo while heifer calves of weight fetched between $2.60 to $3.10 a kilo.
“Some of the heavier cattle, over 400 kilos, sold for $4 a kilo, on the back of an expected short supply in winter for kill cattle for abattoirs,” Mr Ivone said.
“Most of the cattle went north, but some was bought by producers in local valleys.”
Rosewhite cattle breeder, Gary Howell, o ered up 20 Black Angus steers.
“We usually sell in March, but they way the season has gone, we’ve had to keep them on until now,” he said.
“It’s been pretty tough, not only here, but everywhere.
“We need a big rain: it’s a bit dry now.”
Keith Preston from Mudgegonga also had to update his sale plan due to seasonal conditions.
“Today we’re selling eight of our biggest Angus steers,” he said.
“Normally we sell our cattle in August during the spring sales.
“We’re selling early this year because it’s so dry.”
Attendees at last week’s cattle sale enjoyed the opportunity to socialise with other farmers, get a bite from the barbeque, and guess the weight of ‘Norman, the big red steer’, which for the record was 980kgs!
McCurdy concerned by ‘false alarm’ fees hitting local workplaces
OVENS Valley state MP
Tim McCurdy is investigating concerns about escalating charges issued by fire services for false alarm callouts.
The Nationals member said some exceeded tens of thousands of dollars annually.
Mr McCurdy said he had been made aware of incidents where sensitive fire alarm systems are being triggered by minor, everyday events such as burnt toast or steam.
He said despite no emergency, emergency services are now reportedly required to attend all callouts, with organisations charged close to $700 each time - even if it’s quickly confirmed to be a false alarm.
“These are automatic callouts with automatic bills,” Mr McCurdy said.
“Previously, you could stop the response once it was clear there was no emergency.
“Now it appears there’s no way to prevent the charges, even if the alarm is set off by something as simple as burnt food in the kitchen.”
Mr McCurdy said some businesses and facilities have already been hit with fees in excess of $25,000 . He is calling on affected organisations to confidentially share their experiences by contacting his office on (03) 5721 6155 or email tim.mccurdy@ parliament.vic.gov.au.
to their pen by a vigilant Nutrien Ivone sta member and local farmer.
ALPINE’S AUTUMN AUCTION: More than 100 people attended Mytleford’s Autumn Special Cattle Sale at the Nutrien Ivone Yards last Wednesday. PHOTOS: Phoebe Morgan
Club saddles up for mental health awareness, pink day
By JEFF ZEUSCHNER
MYRTLEFORD Pony Club
Inc has gained Victorian government backing to help raise mental health awareness within the local community.
As part of the government’s Change Our Game Community Activation Grants program supporting more women and girls in sport, the club has been granted funding to stage a oneo training session on mental health.
Club president Celia Haley said raising awareness was considered important as many of the club’s 20 members were young females at primary and secondary school, with research indicating there was an increased risk of mental health among this age group.
“The training session would be for parents and coaches, and we’d be inviting other youthbased sporting clubs in our community to join in,” Ms Haley said.
“Depending on the availability of the mental health session facilitator, we’d like to hold it in June or July.”
The club was among 130 community sports clubs across the state to share in more than $3.7
million in grants announced by Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence last week.
Ms Haley said the club is very grateful for the support.
Club members are currently trying to rally their own community support to help Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA).
They are currently selling rafe tickets in preparation for their annual Pink Sports Day, which last year raised $750 to support BCNA to inform, support, connect and represent all Australians a ected by breast cancer.
Club committee member Karen Gasperotti said this year’s event from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday, 24 May at the club’s facilities at the Myrtleford Recreation Reserve, was sure to be a colourful a air, with club members, and some of their horses, to be pretty in pink.
“It’s a great day, and a great club,” she said, with her association spanning three generations - from herself as a child, her children and now her grandchildren.
Anyone wanting to donate to the cause or learn more about the club can go to its Facebook page.
Apply now for community grants and event funding
ALPINE Shire Council's 2025/26 Community Grants Program and 2025/26 Event Funding Program are now open for applications.
Diverse groups and event organisers are encouraged to apply, with funding starting from as little as $100 to as big as $10,000.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, said these
funding opportunities recognise the vital role of groups and organisations across Alpine Shire who bring people together and contribute to the social and economic fabric of the region.
Community groups and event organisers with varying interests are encouraged to apply, including those focused on advocacy, the envi-
ronment, and sustainability, sporting groups, Traditional Owners of Country, and young people.
The Event Funding Program also includes a specific, separate fund for events held in Dinner Plain.
Cr Nicholas said council's event funding is aligned with the Alpine Shire Events Strategy 2021, which identi es the
needs and priorities of the community and provides a clear and realistic framework for council to guide the future delivery of events.
Event organisers are strongly encouraged to review the strategy prior to applying for funding.
Applicants for both the Community Grants Program and Event Funding Program
must apply online via the SmartyGrants grant management system. Applications close at 5pm on Monday, 16 June . - apply by visiting https://alpineshire.smartygrants.com.au/
Interested groups and organisations are encouraged to contact council by calling (03) 5755 0555 or emailing info@alpineshire.vic.gov.au.
Come see free screening of ‘Live the life you please’
IT’S National Palliative Care Week, and a free screening of a film at the Bright Senior Citizens Club this morning hopes to encourage open conversations about end-of-life decisions.
Northeast Health Wangaratta Community Palliative care team has organised for the screening of the highly acclaimed film, ‘Live the Life You Please’, at the club at 10.30am. The film is about living and dying in Australia and explores the nature of palliative care through a series of personal stories. If you would like to attend a screening of the film please call the NHW Palliative Care team on 03 5722 5184.
Put the kettle, support those impacted by cancer
THE Cancer Council is encouraging residents in the Alpine Shire to gather with their friends, family and workmates for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea: a chance to share a cuppa and a bite to eat while raising life-saving funds to fight cancer. With one Australian diagnosed with cancer around every five minutes, the same length as an average tea break, Aussies can make a difference with every mug by registering for this year’s Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea.
Cancer Council hopes to this year raise more than $16 million to continue its life-saving cancer research, prevention, advocacy and support programs.
To get involved, register a morning tea today or donate at: www.biggestmorningtea. com.au
PERFECT IN PINK: Myrtleford Pony Club member Harper Kuczko and her horse ‘Minty’ won the ‘best dressed’ title at last year’s Pink sports Day, and they’re saddling up for this year’s event on 24 May.
PHOTO: Ashlee Hutchinson
Livestock is the second highest killer on farms – we all know cattle can be unpredictable.
So while it may seem like a job that’ll take longer to get the tools out than do, one small repair could save a life.
Understand your responsibilities with safety around cattle at worksafe.vic.gov.au/livestock It’s never you, until it is.
THE PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE BIT
& ProfessionalConsultants Guide
(formerly CRM Business Advisers)
Certified Practising Accountants
Myrtleford, 1-7 Albert Street
Phone: 5752 2288
Bright, 3 Ireland Street
Phone: 5755 1327
www.belmores.com.au
& ASSOCIATES
Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors
25 Clyde Street Myrtleford
Phone: 5751 1995
Email admin@paynterassoc.com.au
www.paynterandassociates.com.au
Hearing Services
29 Clyde Street Myrtleford Plus Standish Street Surgery & Bright Allied Health For appointments call 5752 2817
Lace up for Mount Beauty Running Festival Saturday
EVERYTHING is ready to go for this Saturday’s Mount Beauty Running Festival.
Considered one of Australia’s most scenic foot races, the familyfriendly events expects to attract hundreds of participants of all ages, who will walk, jog or run the multiple race distances of 3km, 10km, 21km or an 18km trail run.
The iconic 10.6km run and 21.1km half marathon are on a fast course - follow the sealed at track around the Mount Beauty Pondage and alongside the pristine Kiewa River, past Pebble Beach - and do the course in the half marathon.
To get further into nature try the epic 18km trail run through the best parts of Mount Beauty and surrounds.
The course is the same as last year with two shallow river crossings and scenic ups and downs on a combination of 4WD and single tracks.
It is a chance to be challenged, push the limits and experience an exhilarating trail run into the Alpine National Park.
The 3km fun run event course is a at sealed track around Mount Beauty Pondage, with no road crossings.
Entrants will enjoy panoramic views of Mount Bogong – ideal for children and prams.
Prizes of local business vouchers will be awarded to the rst, second, and third overall male and female nishers in the 10.6km, 21.1km and 18km events.
In the 3km event medallions will be awarded to all nishers under age 12.
There is also the opportunity for students to win a prize for their school by entering a team of students and sta in the Schools Challenge Competition.
Teams can have entrants in any of the four events, and points will be awarded to the top ve overall nishers in each team.
The team with the lowest average points wins.
Schools must enter their school’s name as the team’s name upon registration.
Mary Hall, race secretary and member of the event’s organising committee from the Kangaroo Hoppet, said everything is set for a fun day out.
“Courses are currently being marked so there should be no confusion on where to go,” she said.
“Alpine Timing and the race o ce volunteers are planning to make bib pick up as e cient as possible.
“The race o ce will be located
at the corner of Lakeside Avenue and Pool Road.
“Also at this location will be toilets and showers available on the day.”
Ms Hall said the Mount Beauty Playgroup is back again this year running a bake sale and barbecue.
“There will be a variety of food available, and all proceeds will support the Mt Beauty Playgroup,” she said.
“The Little Vintage co ee van will be onsite from 9am to 12pm for your co ee needs.
“Special guest will be Piggy, the mascot representing our major sponsor, the Mount Beauty & District Community Bank.
“He will be there cheering on participants and helping to hand
out the medallions to the under 12 nishers in the 3km event.”
Ms Hall said the the Alpine Valley Trifecta is also back.
“If you did the Bright Fun Run 18km trail race on 26 April then you are eligible to win the Alpine Valley Trifecta medal by completing the Mt Beauty Half Marathon this Saturday, and then the Harrietville Half Marathon on 12 October,” she said.
The start/ nish area for the Mount Beauty Running Festival is at the Les Peart Oval at Mount Beauty Secondary College. Start time for the trail run is at 10am and all other events will start at 10:10am.
For more info and to register visit www.hoppet.com.au.
Bright Croquet Club open to all ages
Myrtleford, 47 Clyde Street
Phone: 5752 1151
Bright, 104 Gavan St
Phone: 5715 9705
86 Standish Street, Myrtleford.
Phone: 03 5752 1493
Rear Unit 4, 4 Ireland Street Bright, Phone: 03 5750 1819
Email:
info@tonerandassociates.com.au
Email: info@ovib.com.au Promote your
Phone Jenny on 57313305 or email jking@nemedia.com.au
Phoebe Morgan
Pankhurst, tested out her croquet skills, with only a few hints from club member, Jan Morris.
By PHOEBE MORGAN
THE Bright Croquet Club
welcomed visitors and locals to enjoy a fun day on the lawn during their recent Open Day, as part of this year’s Bright Autumn Festival.
Club secretary, John Hart, said the club is open to new members of any age, and it would be nice to get some younger people involved.
Club president Joan Thompson said a group of visitors from the children’s home in Lilydale were among those who visited and “they certainly enjoyed themselves”.
Bright resident, Dagmar Pankhurst, said the Open Day was a fantastic idea.
“It’s a very good game... there’s quite a lot of skill involved,” she said.
“I’m probably going to end up joining if they’ll have me.
“They were very welcoming when I walked up to the gate.
“I didn’t know anyone, so I was nervous about dropping in, but as soon as I was wait-
ing at the fence, someone came over and welcomed me in.
“So, if you’re nervous about learning croquet, don’t be.”
Fellow Bright resident Glenys Papyat has been playing croquet with the club for six years.
“The thing I enjoy most about the game is the social side of it,” she said.
“Plus it’s held all year and doesn’t close over winter, like a lot of other sports do.”
A visitor from Maitland, NSW, Pam Gentle said she heard about the Bright Open Day and dropped in to join them.
“I’m a member of my local croquet club in Maitland,” she said.
“The best thing about croquet is the company, the tactics and skills required and the open air: it’s a beautiful day here in Bright.
“I rst started playing 35 years ago.
“Most people should start playing croquet when they’re young.
“So come and have a go.”
RUN AND HAVE FUN: Hundreds of people are expected to enjoy the Mount Beauty Running Festival this Saturday.
OPEN TO ALL: New croquet player, Dagmar
EYE ON THE BALL: As Glenys Pepyat took a shot, Pam Gentle, Kathy Lewis and Greg Papyat waited to see how the result would impact their strategies.
PHOTOS:
provides location, perfect presentation, and space.
Agent | Harcourts Wangaratta
home proudly blending its 40s charm with modern day conveniences occupying a generous 920m² allotment.
Upon entry, you are welcomed with high three-metre ceilings, polished timber floorboards, decorative cornices.
Phone | (03) 5722 9444
Price | $1,150,000
Land | 920m²
The well-appointed kitchen offers stone bench tops, upgraded with falcon dual oven cooking and gas stove perfect for the home chefs.
The spacious primary bedroom features a walk-in robe and a fully renovated ensuite.
The three further bedrooms, all containing built-in robes plus separate study/ home office.
A traditional floorplan delivers separate sun filled living room whilst the open plan kitchen, living and dining areas seamlessly flow through French doors to the beautiful spacious alfresco area featuring open fire.
The north facing rear yard provides an abundance of grass, established trees and gardens.
Location | 8 Harper Street, Wangaratta
There is sufficient space for a pool or additional shedding.
To ensure year-round comfort the home comprises of a fully ducted reverse cycle heating and cooling unit with zoning, wood burning heating along with ceiling fans.
Car accommodation comprises a single carport, oversized single remote garage with work-shop space and additional separate studio room.
This beautiful double-brick residence is perfectly located to take advantage of central living in this beautifully fully renovated property.
Search over 10 million properties Australia wide. Whether you’re buying, selling, renting or researching, the View app has everything you need in one place.
view.com.au
Waldara lifestyle living with development opportunity
THIS is a highly appealing Waldara lifestyle property located on the town’s fringe for all those seeking a small acreage property providing 4/5 bedrooms and twobathroom family home.
Beautifully set on five acres, simply enjoy the outdoors or ideally zoned LDRZ to take advantage of the subdivision upside STCA.
Primary bedroom offers an ensuite and WIR whilst the three further guest bedrooms all contain BIRs plus a study or potential 5th bedroom.
Main bathroom is neat and tidy offering separate shower and bath.
Kitchen contains fully functional electric appliances, breakfast bar, with the kitchen window overlooking paved barbecue area.
Adjoining meals area with separate living, dining and lounge areas provides room for the entire family and guests.
Freshly painted and new carpets throughout the home, making it ready to move in.
Reverse cycle split system, ducted evaporative cooling and ceiling fans ensure year round comfort.
Double garage adjoining the home provides two car accommodation whilst a large 20m X 8m 4-bay shedding is complete with concrete floor, power and internal office. The property is connected to town water with a bore maintaining the established lawns, gardens and trees.
It’s fully fenced into three paddocks with established trees, grass and gardens.
The expansive land provides endless opportunities for gardening, play, horses or future development.
SMOKO (11.5 HA)
THE BEST OF BRIGHT ONLY BETTER
Own a piece of Victorian High Country between the bustling tourist mecca of Bright and the popular alpine village of Harrietville. Pristine Ovens River frontage for all your camping, swimming and shing needs.
Plus breathtaking views to Mount Feathertop with Great Valley Trail at your front door. Immaculately presented sandstock brick residence with a blended timber exterior ideally positioned to merge into the surrounding countryside with picture perfect views. Luxurious master suite with ensuite, WIR and BIR’s plus three additional generous bedrooms and well appointed main bathroom.
Modern kitchen with twin AEG ovens, SMEG induction cooktop, dishwasher, Caesarstone benchtops and Butler’s pantry. Massive open plan living with combustion wood heater and decked undercover alfresco area. Plus separate studio, workshop/machinery shed and open bay shedding.
Fully fenced into four main paddocks with the potential to graze a small number of livestock. Plus established Truf ere with mature English Oak trees and opportunity to generate additional income.
Only 10 mins to Bright, 10 mins to Harrietville, 40 kms to Mount Hotham and 55 kms to Dinner Plain.
INSPECTIONS Strictly By Appointment Only FOR SALE Price On Application
JOHN HONEYCHURCH 0419 790 924
MICHAEL WELLER 0410 663 041
PUBLIC NOTICES
Buffalo Dam valve upgrade and road closure
Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) will be closing Buffalo River Road near the dam wall from Monday, 26 May, to Friday, 6 June 2025 between the hours of 8am to 4pm for routine maintenance work.
These works are essential for ensuring long-term infrastructure reliability.
During this time, detours will be in place and detour routes will be clearly signposted for the duration of the closure.
There will be no interruption to the water supply during the works.
For a map of the detours and additional information visit GMW’s projects webpage: www.gmwater.com.au/projects
For further information please contact Adrian Pawlowicz, Project Manager, on 1800 013 357 or email Adrian.Pawlowicz@gmwater.com.au
LEGAL
SILVIO FACCI
Late of Myrtleford Lodge, 73 Prince Street, Myrtleford, Victoria, 3737, deceased. Creditors, next-of-kin and others having claims in respect of the estate of the deceased, who died on 22 December 2024, are required by the executors, Gianni Facci (in the will called Gianni Benedetto Facci) and Walter Facci (also known as and in the will called Walter Joe Facci), to send particulars to them, care of the undermentioned solicitors, by 16 July 2025, a er which date the executors may convey or distribute the assets, having regard only to the claims of which they then have notice.
MORGAN COUZENS LEGAL, Ground Floor, Suite 10, 21-23 Reid Street, Wangaratta 3677.
ISA Brown Pullets, POL $35ea. Pick upWang to Bright Becky & Hugh (03) 5798 1868 freerangehens.com.au
HOLDEN VZ SS Thunder Ute, 2006 6 litre auto, Leather trim, RWC, 6 months reg (1GO-1GA), 222,000kms, $24,950, ONO, Phone Peter on 0412 527 477.
WINDSOR Seaview
Caravan for sale, $23,500, dual axle, 2x 100 ltr water tanks, recently serviced and new awning installed, porta loo with privacy tent, full annex, 3 way refrigerator, single beds, FULLY EQUIPPED including a new 24” Smart TV, 2 sets of linen, everything you need to pack up and go, immaculate condition. Contact Brian on 0400 309 747, leave a message if unavailable.
EVERNEW 16ft pop-top caravan for sale, “Elite” model in immaculate condition, twin beds, new Dunlopillo mattresses, two new adult sleeping bags, new interior carpet, built in microwave oven; portable T.V. and DVD player, plus T.V. aerial, two spare wheels, two gas bottles, towing hitch with support bars, jack for front and side li , new caravan cover, pull out awning and separate annexe walls and poles, y screens on all windows, extra equipment and accessories includes electric water jug, $9750. Ph 0419 348 033.
BIANCO (Newman), Daisy.
Passed away peacefully in Sydney on May 5, 2025. Aged 93 years. Formerly of Myrtleford and Port Macquarie. Wife of Joe Bianco (dec).
Dearly loved sister-in-law of Gerard and Franca and loving auntie of Anthony and Jeremy. Forever in our hearts and so sadly missed.
CRISCI, Steven. 1973 – 2025 Taken too soon.
Beloved son of Sam and Delores (dec). Loved brother of Sonia Crisci. Uncle to Kayla and Tegan.
KING, James (Jimmy, Jim).
NISSAN X-Trail STIL 2011, leather interior, good condition, towball, all wheel drive, 2ton capacity, reg (YOF136), $4200 rm. Ph 0403 431 390. DEATH NOTICES
13/2/1935 – 11/5/2025
Passed away peacefully at Myrtleford Lodge.
Loving husband of Lyn (dec).
Cherished Dad to Belinda (dec), Jamie and Jenny.
Beloved Poppy to Ebony and Luca. Father-in-law to Maurice and Step Poppy to Jenna and Georgia.
Favourite son, brother, brother-in-law and uncle to the King family.
He built his life with steadfast might, A shining beacon, burning bright. A father’s heart, a husband’s soul, A story told, making us whole. We’ll carry on, with love and light, His memory will forever shine, so right.
Dad we can never thank you enough for the absolute, devotion, love and care you gave to Mum.
May you rest easy now you are back with your adored Lyn and Belinda.
Special thanks to the team at the Myrtleford Lodge for their care and support to Dad over the years.
EVANS, Oliver Fredrick (Ollie).
27/5/1936 – 11/5/2025
Passed away peacefully surrounded by his much loved family. Loving husband of Mary (dec). Cherished father of Rose, Linda, Julie, Cindy and their partners. Grandfather of 8. Great-Grandfather of 12.
For funeral details please see later paper or visit Mason Park Funerals website.
Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
CRISCI
Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Steven Crisci will be held TODAY Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Lawrence Street, Myrtleford, commencing at 11am. A private cremation will follow Steven’s service.
The Celebration of Life for the late James (Jimmy, Jim) King will be held at the Myrtleford Golf Club on Monday, May 19, 2025 commencing at 1pm.
Ball Winners – Ladies: K Newton 79. Men’s: R Wheeler 75, S Hancock 76, C Shewell 76, M Manley 76, M Young 76.
NTPs - 1st: Peter Glidden, 4th 2nd Shot: Darren Edwards, 8th: Dillion Thompson, 14th: Angela O’Shaughnessy and Robert Wheeler, 16th: Margaret Curtis and Raymond Thompson.
Ladies Winners: Carol Ames (47) and Ann Bryant (36) 46 pts. Ladies Runners up: Renae Howard (34) and Anna Barwick (36) 44 pts.
Men’s Winners: Peter Stewart (13) and George Browne (22) 44 pts.
Men’s Runners Up: Craig Shewell (13) and Je Ramsdale (20) 43 pts c/b.
Ball Competition - Ladies: L Browne and C Prowse 42, V Swi and J Mitchell 42, A O’Shaughnessy and M Broz 41, B Wickes and R McGrath 40, K Newton and S Piazza 40.
Men’s: D Clark and K O’Shaughnessy 43, J Costello and G Black 42, B Bynon and I Giovannoni 41, D Matthews and P Cowman 41. Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Anna Bar-
wick, 4th 2nd Shot: Vivian Swi and David Matthews, 8th: Darren Gordon, 14th: Vicki Sims and Je Ramsdale, 16th: Kerry Newton and Ichlis Giovannoni. Thursday, 8 May WAW, Rinlatech Engineering & Michelini Wines Credit Union Stableford Ladies Bowl AWCR 73
A Grade Winner: Angela O’Shaughnessy (14) 36pts. A Grade Runner Up: Liz Orton (12) 35pts.
B Grade Winner: Valerie Ellis (20) 42pts, Jubilee. B Grade Runner Up: Susan Crow (18) 36pts, Mans eld.
C Grade Winner: Denise Sellwood (24) 38pts, Thurgoona. C
Grade Runner Up: Lesley Anderson (27) 35pts, Mans eld.
D Grade Winner: Virginia Clayton (34) 40pts, Commercial Albury.
D Grade Runner Up: Colleen Leeds (40) 35c/b, Mans eld.
Ball Winners: Robyn Davies 35pts. Robyn Poyner 35c/b, Judith Brown 35c/b, Alison Loughran 35, Susan Oakley 34c/b, Susan Kinloch 34c/b, Jackie O’Brien 34c/b, Heather Thompson 34c/b, Tracey Gravenall 34c/b, Kerri Nicol 34c/b, Judith Hirschfeld 34 c/b, Liz Collihole 34, Dana Lampitt 33c/b, Lee Freeland 33c/b, Patsy Smiles 33c/b, Nikki Smith 33, Maggie Ray 32c/b, Lucia DaPos 32c/b, Rachael Gordon 32c/b, Shelley Comerford 32c/b, Kylie Egan 32c/b, Robyn Hogan 32c/b, Roslyn Kerr 32c/b, Beradette Malcolm 32c/b. NTPs - 1st (Golden Hole): Denise Sellwood, 8th: Helen Mummery, 14th: Nada Guyatt.
Bowl Winners - 120 pts, Manseld: Patsy Smiles, Kylie Eagan, Susan Crow and Susan Kinloch 103c/b.
Small Teams - 120 pts, L Carmody 31pts, V Ellis 42pts, A O’Shaughnessy 36pts.
Young Chicks 50+: Valerie Ellis 42pts.
Vets 60+: Lizzie Orton 36pts.
Super Vets 70+: Virginia Clayton 40pts.
Ra e Winner: Susan Wood. Wednesday, 7 April
Coles Stableford AMCR 71
A Grade Winner: David Clark (13) 34 pts c/b. A Grade Runner Up: George Browne (22) 34 pts. Ball Winners: D Matthews 32, P
Stewart 31, P Veldman 31.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: David Matthews, 4th 2nd Shot: Geo Sims, 14th: Dvid Clark. Tuesday, 6 May
Coles Stableford AMCR 73
A Grade Winner: Barb Welch (17) 36 c/b. A Grade Runner Up: Linda Lo us (20) 35 c/b.
Ball Winners: Carolyn Prowse 36 c/b, Ann Hazeldine 32 c/b.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Linda Loftus, 8th: Kerry Newton, 14th: Linda Lo us.
MOUNT BEAUTY GOLF CLUB
THE Monday League played their 18 holes on Monday, 5 May which was won by Andy Cook from Bright Country Golf Club with 39 points from Tony Campen and Dave Etherton, both with 36 points.
The ladies played the front nine on Wednesday, 7 May which was won by Ute Svoboda with 21 points from Helen Whittaker and Carol Bartholomew, both with 18 points.
NTP on the seventh (second shot) was Liz Harvey.
The men played the front nine on Wednesday, 7 May which was won by Fred Gerardson with 22 points from Dave Browning with 20 points.
NTP on the seventh was Dave Browning, and the ninth was Roger Church.
The ladies played Par on Saturday, 10 May which was won by Lynda Barter with +1 from Liz Harvey and Astrid Yea (Yackandandah GC), both with -3.
NTP, second shot on the 18th was Ruth Rynehart. Saturday, 10 May was the nal round of the Kiewa Cup for the men.
The round was won by Keith Archibald with a net 69 from Ross Wilson with net 70.
Balls were handed out to Samuel Bakes (Commercial Club Albury) with net 71, Michael Bartholomew with net 72, and Don Mason, Peter Johns and James Breen (Thurgoona GC) with their net 73s.
NTP on the seventh, along with
the Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post O ce was Allan Retallick, ninth was Keith Archibald, 17th was Mark Redmond, while Peter Johns took the money on the 18th.
Combined with his net 73 the week before, Keith Archibald took out the coveted Kiewa Cup with his combined net 142 from Bruce Plant net 150, and Trevor English net 152.
On the Sunday 11 May, the grand nal of the Matchplay Championship was played out between Carol Bartholomew and Trevor English.
Trevor was able to overcome a determined Carol on the 16th, winning 4-2.
BRIGHT COUNTRY GOLF CLUB
AS the famous Jack Nicklaus once said, “When you lip out several putts in a row, you should never think that means that you’re putting well. When you’re putting well, the only question is what part of the hole it’s going to fall in, not if it’s going in.”
This was obvious on Monday, 5 May, as the winner Steve Grogan was putting them in from everywhere.
The veteran’s competition on the h was stroke, a true test of golfer’s ability.
The winner, Steve Grogan, playing o 23 HC nished with a very ne nett 72, and coming in second was Mick Dunne, 14 H/C nett 75.
Ball winners: Rod Brown 76 nett C/B, Kevin Reed nett 76, Glenn O’Connell nett 78 C/B, Andy Armstrong nett 78.
NTPs - 3rd: Ian Browne, 6th: Kevin Reed, 11th: Kevin Reed.
Wednesday, 7 May, Ladies’ Monthly Medal.
Overall winner and medal winner was Tina Cook playing o a 10-handicap, victorious with a nett 72.
Ball winners: Carol Burgess nett 75 and Suzette Heydon nett 77.
NTPs - 3rd: Carol Burgess, 6th: Dianne Anders, 16th: Tina Cook. Thursday, 8 May, was the men’s Stableford competition.
With 37 golfers teeing o , only one was successful in playing un-
der their handicap.
Neville Blewitt playing o 20 H/C returned with a ne 38 points.
Second place went to John O’Shea with a return to form 15 H/C 36 pts, Crusty Carlisle had 11 H/C 35 pts, and in fourth place Tony Chalwell 15 H/C 34 pts C/B.
The winner of the IGA chicken went to Crusty Carlisle with ne 22 points
The winner of the NAGA went to Ken Bailey with a rather ordinary 15 points – but at least he took home a ne Bright Golf Club sherry glass to remember his achievement.
Friday, 9 May, ladies’ 9-hole Stableford competition.
Winner was Sarah Williamson with 20 pts, and ball winner was Lucy Snowden with 16 pts.
NTPs - 16th: Sarah Williamson. Saturday, 10 May was the annual anniversary golf stableford competition, all gender.
A total of 58 golfers tried, but only one played under their handicap.
The president, Barney Neville, couldn’t understand why there wasn’t a better score but he triumphed over the others with a ne 37 points.
Others were Phil Jessen 11 H/C 36 pts, Mark Stephenson 7 H/C 35 pts C/B, Keven Reed 22 H/C 35 pts, Dianne Anders 27 H/C 34 pts C/B. Ball winners: Carol Bailey 34 pts C/B, Greg Dawson 34 pts C/B, Fran Bentley 34 pts C/B, Shane Castricum 34 pts C/B, Joh O’Shea 33 pts C/B, Nev Blewitt 33 pts C/B, Chris Davey 33 pts C/B.
NTPs - 3rd: Phil Jessen, 6th: Andrew Badrock, 11th: David Kelly, 16th: Ash Laurenson.
The members draw went to John O’Shea and the NAGA surprisingly went to John Forbes from Pinchgut with 19 points.
The Bright Golf Guru interesting golf fact of the week is about lost balls.
Approximately three to four golf balls are lost each round, totalling over 1.5 billion lost balls annually in the US.
TEAM WORK: Carol Bartholomew and Trevor English (middle) with their ‘caddies’ Helen Whittaker and Michael Bartholomew in the the grand final of the matchplay championship. INSET: WINNER: Barry Bynon took out the Monthly Medal at Myrtleford recently.
Kiewa Cup at Mount Beauty.
ONE TO REMEMBER: Barney Neville won the Anniversary Day trophy at Bright.
END OF THE LINE: MYRTLEFORD SAVOY’S MEN’S SIDE CAME UNDONE IN THEIR FA CUP FINAL AGAINST ALBURY CITY. FOR THE THIRD YEAR STRAIGHT, SAVOY HAS BEEN UNABLE TO SECURE THE CUP, DOWNED 2-3.
Cup heartbreak for Savoy
By NATHAN DE VRIES
FOR the third time in as many years, Myrtleford Savoy’s division one men’s side has fallen at thenal hurdle in their quest to claim the FA Cup.
Savoy su ered their rst loss of the year on Saturday night at Wodonga’s LaTrobe Ground, going down 2-3 to Albury City.
From the rst whistle, something was o about Savoy, as City attacked with intensity and a pure desire to possess the ball.
Myrtleford couldn’t take control
in the middle of the park and when City had their chances, they took them.
From trailing 0-1 a er the rst 45 minutes, Savoy let through two further chances to stare at a 0-3 scoreline, a substantial mountain to climb.
With time running out, Savoy managed to peg two back, but they were still behind when the nal whistle sounded.
Coach Jayden Vescio said it was a disappointing way to end their Cup tilt.
“It wasn’t to be, again,” he said.
“We started okay, like in any final it was a pretty fierce contest early.
“They were in the fight more, we were second to the ball too many times, and you can’t be in a final.
“We pegged one back at maybe the 70-minute mark, we changed things up and went three at the back to try and overload the mideld where they’d had a hold of us all night.
“I just think the boys were a little bit o , I can’t really put a nger on the reasoning.
“They used the pitch really well, Albury City, the size of the pitch, and we just had too many passengers, and you can’t have passengers in a Cup nal, it’s as simple as that.”
This weekend is the perfect chance for the side to recalibrate and launch back into their wildly successful league campaign.
Savoy host local rivals Wangaratta City for the annual La Fiera Cup clash at Savoy Park this Sunday, always a delightful spectacle.
Vescio said it was the ideal palate cleanser.
“It’s the perfect week for a re-
sponse, we play Wangaratta at home so it’s a perfect week to get back on the track, work on the things we need to,” he said.
“La Fiera is always a good day, we couldn’t ask for a better team to play - it doesn’t matter about ladder positions when Wang play Myrt.
“The response will be there, I’m sure, and we look forward to the weekend.”
The senior men’s clash is from 3pm this Sunday, 18 May.
In the weekend matches, the reserve men took a gritty 1-0 over at Cobram.
FUTURE STARS
LAST Saturday, the Myrtleford Savoy Soccer Club’s MiniRoos had the opportunity to host friends from Bright Soccer Club for their first gala day of 2025.
Over 150 children kicked the frost off the grass to start the day and enjoyed the sunshine by the end of it, each other’s company, and put their teamwork to the test.
The MiniRoos also celebrated Female Football Week - this year the program has close to 40 females registered and the aim to see these numbers go well past 50 in 2026.
On Sunday, 18 May, the MiniRoos are involved with the La Fiera Cup, and the following week have their second Gala Day, this time hosting Mansfield Soccer Club. Registration are still open at www. palyfootball.com.au - to learn more, contact MSSC MiniRoos coordinator Anthony Zanghellini on 0439 952 998.
PHYSICAL PRESENCE: Tom Morrison uses his body to keep his Albury City opponent o the ball.
FANCY FEET: Josh Zito looks to change direction.
PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie
NEED OPTIONS: Connor Caponecchia looks for a passing option.
MATCH REVIEWS
Bright back on track
AFTER a tough week on the road last week for Bright’s premier football and netball teams, both sides were able to bounce back with wins at home last Saturday.
The Mountain Men, who were hoping to get back on the winner’s list a er their season’s rst loss, came out with a point to prove against early improvers North Wangaratta to record a twelve-goal victory at Pioneer Park - 19.7 (121) to 7.7 (49).
Bright were strong in the contest from the rst minute and managed to open up a three-goal lead at the rst break, then went one better with a six-goal to one second quarter to effectively end any chance of a Hawks victory away from home, with a 46-point half-time advantage.
North Wangaratta showed plenty of ght to even the score in the third quarter, but Bright’s run and carry was evident to game’s end to extend the nal beyond 10 goals.
Spearhead Cooper Thomason (seven goals), Cy Banks (three), Wayland Wales (three) and Riley Bacon (two) were the Mountain Men’s multiple goal kickers.
Senior coach Michael Quirk was happy with his side’s response to a rare loss.
“A er our rst loss last week, we made a point of getting back to basics and being more proactive in running through the lines to put the North Wang backline under pressure,” Quirk said.
Speaking on his side’s next challenge against Moyhu, who had their three- gure win against Benalla All Blacks last weekend, Quirk was cautious of the Hoppers
SPEARHEAD: Cooper Thomason, pictured in last week’s match with Milawa, slotted seven goals in his side’s 72-point win over North Wangaratta. PHOTOS: Kurt Hickling
can produce on their home turf.
“It will be another tough match this week heading to Moyhu and we won’t be taking them lightly on their home ground,” Quirk added.
“We will continue to work hard at training to improve in all areas of our game.
“It’s only early in the season and there’s still plenty of room for improvement.”
Bright’s A grade netball squad had a similarly convincing 62-21
win against North Wangaratta.
A er conceding 69 goals in their most recent match, Bright’s defence, led by Amber Quirk and Molly Whitty, was as strong as ever and conceded no more than seven goals in a single quarter.
In a positive sign at the other end of the court, Bright scored 22 goals in the last term to remind rival teams of their scoring prowess that could cause opposition coaches some headaches in the coming
Whorouly impressive against Blues across grades
By NATHAN DE VRIES
FOR the rst time in many years, Whorouly’s A grade netball squad managed to put down one of the great teams of the league in Greta. The Lions were imperious in both attack and defence, doubling the Blues on the scoreboard to take the points 50-25 on the gorgeous court at the Whorouly Recreation Reserve.
A very even rst quarter gave way to an onslaught through the second, with Whorouly establishing a seven-goal bu er to take into half-time.
Defensively, the second half was dominated by the Lions, only conceding seven goals for an entire half of A grade netball.
The Lions started to put the Blues to the sword through the third quarter, shooting 11
goals with some exceptional passing and nishing under the post.
A 14-goal to three nal quarter put the nail in the co n, securing the four points.
Ebony Allen and Laura Keighran were dominant in the defensive end, the midcourt was exceptional in transitioning the ball, while shooters Abbey Forrest (31 goals) and Tayla Allen (13 goals) were on re.
In other netball grades, while the under 15 (28-41) and C grade (19-38) sides went down, the B reserve (48-44) and B grade squads (46-39) banked the points.
It was a harsher result over on the football eld, with the senior Lions falling away late to lose 12.5 (77) to the Blues’ 15.12 (102).
Whorouly were well and truly in the game for the rst half, with slick ball movement
and a strong forward presence inside their 50 seeing the Lions head into the long break up by three points.
However, Greta’s defensive apparatus switched on a er the break, keeping the Lions to just three goals for the second half, while their own forwards and mid elders kicked true.
Max Scott and Jessie Smith were dominant across half back for the Lions, while Mi-
chael Newton closed the gap on the league’s leading goal kickers with a bag of six. The reserves fought hard in the midday match but came up short 6.7 (43) to Greta’s 13.8 (86).
Whorouly heads to Tarrawingee this weekend in round eight – netball starts from 9.10am with the under 15s clash, while the reserves kick start the footy action from 12pm.
CLEARANCE: Daniel Boyle boots the ball from the centre bounce.
PATH TO GOAL: Katie Ivone looks for a clean pass inside the circle, with Tayla Allen in suppport.
POWER PASS: Bec Allen strongarms the ball down the court. PHOTOS: Nathan de Vries
MATCH REVIEWS
Roos’ defence too strong for Saints to break past
By NATHAN DE VRIES
MYRTLEFORD succumbed to an 18-goal loss at the hands of a defensively-charged Corowa Rutherglen out t on Saturday at McNamara Reserve.
Despite some brilliant play at both ends of the court, an injury to midcourter Evie Hughes threw the Saints o their game, eventually falling 33-51.
The match was evenly poised early, with scores deadlocked a er the rst quarter 12-12, but when Hughes sustained a severe ankle injury, Corowa began to li to take an eight-point lead by half-time.
A at Saints squad tried to penetrate the Roos’ iron-clad defensive structure with limited success and felt the pain on the scoreboard when the ball went down the other end.
Down by nine goals heading into the nal 15 minutes, the Saints managed just six goals, with Corowa Rutherglen well and truly making the most of their momentum.
Myrtleford coach Olivia La Spina said while they played well in patches, the injury to Hughes had an impact.
“We had a great rst half of netball,” she said.
“I felt our defence was really strong and created many opportunities for us.
“Corowa’s defence is certainly their strength and I felt that we held our nerve for the rst half, but
when Evie went down with a really serious ankle injury it probably took the spark out of the game.
“In the second half we lost some drive and con dence in the attack end, and the team as a whole felt quite at with losing Evie.
“We were lucky enough to debut Lily Boyer who’s only 15 - she played a cracking game and gave us something di erent in defence.
“Jorja Reidy played her best game of the year and was unstoppable in wing defence.”
The Saints have the opportunity to bounce back this weekend with another home game, this time hosting an Albury Tigers out t similarly eager for success.
The Tigers have lost the last four in a row and are yet to taste outright victory in 2025, while Myrtleford will be searching for their second triumph.
In other matches from the weekend, the B grade side fell 26-56, C grade won 51-29, the under 17s got up 43-33, and the under 15s came away with a convincing win 61-26.
Myrtleford annihilate Corowa Rutherglen by 73 points in stunning performance
■ From back page
“They’ve been a highpossession team, and we thought if we were a chance of turning the ball over it was going to come from our pressure, so we put a real focus on that in the pregame and at training during the week.
“We ran at 75 per cent disposal e ciency which has been a season high for us, so when we had it in our hands we looked a er it, and that’s an important part of the modern game.”
Big man Riley Smith was best on ground for the Saints in a dual ruck/forward role, nishing with three goals, 12 hitouts and 10 score involvements.
Smith’s partner in crime at the bounce, Toby Cossor, dominated stoppages with 46 hitouts for the match and ve score involvements.
Tom Cappellari led all comers with 35 disposals and nine inside 50s, while Jaxon East (32 disposals, 15 contested possessions) and Matt Munro (21 disposals, ve tackles) made their presence known across the ground.
“Toby was outstanding, he spent 60 per cent of the time in the ruck and Riley spent the other 40 per cent and rested forward.
“They both take a really good contested mark, and they’re both huge in stature, so they do create some headaches.
Bombers downed by Hawks in netball arm-wrestle
IT was a bitter-sweet day for Dederang-Mount Beauty’s A grade netball team, who suffered their first defeat for the season last Saturday.
In what can be one of the most daunting road trips in netball on the border, the Bombers lost to the more experienced KiewaSandy Creek by nine goals, 33-42.
The match was truly a tale of two halves as the Hawks started the quicker of the two teams, trailing by five and nine goals after the first two quarters with a 15-24 scoreline.
After half-time, it was the Bombers who lifted their intensity and skill level to match it with the league’s benchmark, with both defences working overtime in the second half to even out the last two quarters.
Despite the loss on the scoreboard, coach Alex Dyde took some positives from the game.
“Even though we didn’t take the win, it was a sensational game of netball and we are still very happy with our performance,” Dyde said.
“I think the biggest asset of both of them is they’re both fantastic runners, they run all day.”
In other results, the reserves sit on top of the table a er a 9.14 (68) to 4.6 (30) win, having only dropped a single game from their rst ve rounds.
While the thirds dropped their h straight game on the weekend, 8.6 (54) to 10.8 (68), the depth of the program and determination is on display.
The Saints will look ahead to this weekend and a juicy match-up with the always-fearsome Albury Tigers.
Both senior squads sit at 3-2 from the season, with Albury fresh o a 28-point win over Lavington, who mauled Myrtleford by almost six goals back on Easter Sunday.
“They’re a pretty good side, a very good side and they’re starting to hit some really good form, so it’s going to be a really big challenge for us,” Millar said.
“I think if we can play our way for long enough, it’ll keep us competitive.
“We’ll just have to take our chances when they’re a orded to us.”
Football action begins at McNamara Reserve with the thirds from 10am, with reserves at 12pm and the seniors from 2pm.
“We took a few risks this week with combinations and had a few clear game strategies going into the match, both of which paid off.
“The second half really showcased what we can offer so we are excited to face them again later in the season and hopefully get it over the line next time.
“We are definitely seeing a pattern of the last half of the game being our strongest and having the stamina to push through.”
With an eye now on this Saturday against fifth-placed Thurgoona in Mount Beauty, fourth-placed Dederang-Mount Beauty have every chance of getting the job done, according to Dyde.
“Thurgoona are another great competitor – they are more physical than Kiewa, so it will be a different game, but we are extremely adaptable and predict it’ll be a close game that could really go either way,” she said.
“We know that if we can get a good start and take an early lead then we should be able to maintain it and hopefully take a win.”
DMB’s senior football side also had to contend with a Kiewa-Sandy Creek team that are expected to feature deep into September, but ended up suffering a mammoth 248-point mauling.
After four quarters to forget, the Bombers had a brief moment of joy in the final term thanks to a goal from skipper Jacob Ozolins. The Hawks had twelve individual goal kickers that contributed to the scoreboard that read 37.33 (255) to 1.1 (7) after two hours of one-sided football.
dominant in the ruck, finishing with 46 hitouts.
ON A STRING: Tom Cappellari recorded a match-high 35 disposals for the Saints.
INFLUENTIAL: Riley Smith impacted the game at stoppage and in front of goals. PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie
POSSESSION
Matt Richardson looks to control the ball against a challenge in Myrtleford’s 2-3 FA Cup final loss to Albury City.
■ Full story page 27
Dominant Saints
Myrtleford annihilate Corowa Rutherglen by 73 points in stunning performance
IT was perhaps the greatest Mothers’ Day gi you could’ve asked for if you’re a supporter of the Saints, with the club’s senior team absolutely demolishing the visiting Roos on the weekend.
The Saints controlled the ow of the game for the full four quarters, running out winners 17.12 (114) to Corowa Rutherglen’s 6.5 (41) in front of a screaming home crowd.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
While the game started o on relative parity, the Saints broke it open in the second term, booting ve goals to two to open up a 34-point advantage as the teams headed into the rooms.
Corowa’s kicks were far from precise, and Myrtleford made sure to capitalise on their opponents’ sloppy skills, making the Roos pay on the scoreboard for every turnover.
The Saints were happy to chip the ball around and switch when needed, overworking the Roos’ defensive structure and allowing low-risk kicks to nd their target in perfect positions.
The pain kept coming for Corowa through the second half, as Myrtleford’s mid eld continued to exert their in uence both in the centre of the ground and forward.
It was clear the mid eld battle was won by the Saints, who almost doubled the Roos’ inside 50 count (60-32).
Coach Craig Millar said he expected a closer contest, based on other results this season.
“We probably didn’t expect the outcome of the game to pan out the way it did, to be honest, but I was really proud of a really disciplined four-quarter e ort,’ he said.
“Their form had been better than their results had outlined, so we knew we were in for a tough challenge, but I was really pleased with how it went.
