Alpine Division 170424

GIVE GENEROUSLY

Bright RSL president Philip Keeghan and Jane Harvey are some of the many volunteers who are seeking donations and selling items for the ANZAC Appeal in the lead up to April 25. Story page 8

Going with the flow?

Life Saving Victoria recommends water flow studies

WATER flow patterns should be studied at the Bright River Pool before the cessation of dredging or the removal of weir boards, a Life Saving Victoria (LSV) report has recommended.

A September 2023 Aquatic Risk Assessment of the Bright River Pool, obtained through a freedom of information request, recommends an environmental impact study and hydrodynamic modelling studies to understand potential impact on water flow patterns due to the cessation of dredging and removal of the pool’s weir boards.

“Life Saving Victoria advises that the environmental impact of these changes should be assessed through an environmental impact study, conducted alongside public consulta-

BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@ nemedia.com.au

tions, to evaluate their full effects on the river’s ecosystem and community usage,” it says.

“Swift water conditions present a separate set of safety concerns, including the heightened complexity of rescues and an increased risk of drowning.

“Hydrodynamic modelling studies are recommended to understand the full implications of these changes on water flow.”

Last October Alpine Shire councillors rejected a recommendation to remove the jumping board and cease dredging at the pool, and instead vot-

ed for an alternative motion to seek further statistics for a later council decision.

According to the risk assessment, the council was provided with a copy of it over a month before that meeting, yet the report to councillors failed to mention the recommendation for water flow studies, despite listing five other recommendations that all appear in the risk assessment.

The assessment said the likelihood of drowning or severe injury is ‘almost certain’ at the jumping board, and recommends its removal.

However, Life Saving Victoria have confirmed the risk assessment is based on an undredged river, despite the pool being routinely dredged near the board to ensure a safe depth

for jumping.

Andy Dennis, general manager of training and aquatic industry at LSV, confirmed to the Alpine Observer that “the premise of the report was the ceasing of dredging at the beginning of the summer period”, and said if the pool is not dredged the jumping board is too shallow, significantly increasing risk.

The risk assessment said statistics indicate the jumping board is “a significant risk factor”, however, this should be weighed against its popularity and the recreational value it adds to the river pool.

“The board’s removal may lead to a decline in visitor numbers, which could have economic implications for the local area,” the assessment says.

According to the risk assessment, Alpine Shire Council had identified the depth of the water, particularly in areas over 4 metres deep, as a significant safety concern.

Using data sourced from Belgravia Leisure, the risk assessment shows that over the 2022-23 season, consisting of 37 days, there were 32 rescue incidents involving 50 people.

On one day 10 rescues were performed.

Further data from Belgravia Leisure shows 46 per cent of rescues were conducted near the jumping board, while another 42 per cent took place in deep water, particularly towards the river’s right-hand side.

Alpine Shire Council were contacted for comment but did not respond before deadline.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

RAD RIDERS

(From left) Hunter Coleman, Kaiden Morritt, Kye Kamerling, Jacob Morritt, Jake Kamerling and Desy

Brown were some of the BMX bikers showing their skills at the North East Skate Park Series in Myrtleford last Saturday.

More pics page 7.

THE Myrtleford RSL will unveil a memorial to peacekeepers on ANZAC Day, commemorating Australian involvement in peacekeeping operations since 1947.

According to the RSL, the memorial has been designed and created by local artisans, with artwork inspired by the well-known 1993 image of the then Private Jason Putland of the 1st Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) assisting a Somalian boy at a food drop during Operation Solace, in southwestern Somalia. Myrtleford RSL president

Bryan Meehan, an exmember of 1RAR, has put the call out to all peacekeepers (via the Australian Peacekeeper and Peacemaker Veterans Association and other veteran associations) in an open invitation to witness the memorial’s unveiling. Victorian director of the Australian Peacekeeper and Peacemaker Veterans Association, Tom Hanley, who is also an ex-1RAR soldier, will be the RSL’s special guest to unveil the memorial to peacekeepers.

Other special guests to the unveiling include Alpine Shire mayor John Forsyth, Cr Ron Janas, Geordie McEwan of council’s Resilient Alpine Youth Squad, and Jim and Lyn Murtagh, parents of the late Lance Corporal Bradley Murtagh who served in Somalia on Operation Solace in 1993.

Mr Meehan said the RSL is grateful to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs for providing a Saluting Their Service grant, which provided the

majority of funding for the memorial.

“We are proud to be able to honour the service and commitment of so many ADF members, AFP members and civilians in this way,” he said.

“We therefore think that it is important to take every opportunity to alert all peacekeepers of this event.”

Mr Meehan said former committee members Gerry Green and David Kilpatrick were instrumental in identifying the need for wider community

recognition of Australian Peacekeepers’ service.

The unveiling will take place at 12:10pm at the RSL on Smith Street after the ANZAC service at 11am.

The RSL is also reestablishing links with a North Bandiana soldier’s club named after one of Myrtleford’s most wellknown servicemen.

At the RSL on Smith Street last Friday the subbranch presented Sergeant Albert David Lowerson’s Victoria Cross citation, complete with replica

mounted medals, to the president of the Lowerson Club mess committee.

Warrant Officer Class Two Beau Thomas, accompanied by Corporal Matthew Fullarton and Corporal Callum Macklan, thanked the RSL on behalf of the club.

According to RSL secretary John Twyford, the decision follows the RSL’s executive committee visit to the Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering in mid-February where they took a close look at the Lowerson Club, named in honour of Victoria Cross recipient Albert David Lowerson.

An autumnal gem nestled by the mountains

By BRODIE EVERIST

EVEN for Harrietville, it’s a cool valley. You can feel the cold air flowing from the mountains.

According to co-owner John Atkins, some shady parts stay permanently frosty in winter.

It’s just one of the reasons why their 14-acre garden, Shady Brook Cottages, features a gorgeous variety of stately deciduous trees, forming the framework of a garden that blends naturally with the mountainside.

While there are aspects of formality, including a sweeping lawn their black poodle, Shai, was joyfully running across, Mr Atkins said the garden also imitates natural forms.

“In some places, the trees are quite tight,” he said.

“We’ve got the big trees, like that sugar maple, and then under that we’ve got this Japanese maple.

“That’s how they would be in the forest.

“It’s a very appealing garden when people stay here because it’s very peaceful, very relaxed.”

Last week autumn colours were just beginning to show on the vast number of maples, oaks, elms and even deciduous conifers across the property, many planted in the early years of the garden.

John and his wife Anne purchased the property in 1997 as a vacant piece of land, overgrown with blackberries.

They tackled the weeds and planted their first trees in 1998, forming the ‘skeleton’ of the garden, from which they gradually worked, planting conifers for structure and winter colour, while also populating the garden with spring bulbs.

According to Mr Atkins, many gardeners in Harrietville must deal with sandy, rocky soils – a legacy of dredging in the valley.

But due to this property’s status as a former logging station it was spared the impact of dredging and the soil remains a deep acidic loam, suitable for the lesser-known specimens on their property, including maples, Turkish oaks, and even a lovely variegated elm.

They did try some Australian natives, such as popular Western Australian varieties, Mr Atkins said, but they couldn’t handle the damp.

“We do grow some here of course,” he said, mentioning some of the self-seeded gums

they have allowed to stay.

“But we found that the ground’s too wet and even natives that got established, they would die after two or three years.

“So that’s why we went with a deciduous garden, and then we mix that up with conifers to give us evergreens.”

One of the more recent challenges is the proliferation of deer in the Ovens Valley, said Mr Atkins, which came in strong numbers around 2010.

“We were blessed until the deer arrived,” he said.

“Virtually we didn’t have to even put guards around the trees.”

Since then they have installed an electric fence they put on at night,

which has deterred the voracious grazer.

Other recent works include lifting some of the tree canopies to provide visibility through the garden, but Mr Atkins said the garden is somewhat self-sustaining.

“To say that it’s exactly what we thought it would be 26 years agono,” he said.

“But generally, we wanted to create a European-style garden that was relatively self-maintaining, with lots of colour, and I think we’ve done that.”

Shady Brook Cottages will be open for visits daily during the 2024 Bright Autumn Festival, running from April 26 - May 5.

Reserve’s new amenities now open

By BRODIE EVERIST

THE Myrtleford Recreation Reserve committee officially opened the reserve’s new amenities block on Monday afternoon, with almost 30 in attendance.

Committee president Allan MacGuffie opened proceedings at 2:10pm, thanking past and present committee members for their work in overseeing the three-year process.

“I’d really like to thank the committee that’s with us today for the foresight in pushing ahead and chasing funds,” he said.

“If you don’t have community-minded people, things don’t get done.”

The amenities block will replace three ageing toilet blocks across the reserve, with the one next to the road

“ready to fall over”, according to Mr MacGuffie.

Mr MacGuffie also thanked Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy for his support and read a letter from Mr McCurdy in his absence.

“I’m pleased to see that this important project has been completed,” Mr MacGuffie read.

“It is not always the glamorous projects that form such an important part of the community, but more the humble places such as amenities blocks that can make or break a person’s visit.”

According to Mr MacGuffie, the new block will serve an increasing number of recreation reserve users.

The amenities block was largely funded by a $550,000 grant from Emergency Recovery Victoria (ERV) through their Local Econom-

ic Recovery Program.

Bronwyn Parker, from ERV, said the project “ticked all the boxes” for the grant.

“The grants were available to fund projects that build up a sense of community pride and connectedness,” she said.

“Well done to everybody involved - to the committee, council, the Alpine CRC (Community Recovery Committee).”

The project also received around $5000 from local fund Grow Myrtleford+ for rainwater tanks.

The new block has arrived just in time for the arrival of the Australian Touring RC Club, who are staying at the recreation reserve for 10 days from April 16.

After the opening, attendees had afternoon tea in the Richardson Pavilion.

and RSL) conducted its annual wood gathering day on Sunday.

Wood day a success

By JOHN TWYFORD, Myrtleford RSL Sub-Branch

THE Myrtleford Combined Services Club (Lions, Rotary and RSL) conducted its annual wood gathering day on Sunday, this time at Chris McCracken‘s property at Rosewhite.

Organisers Tom White and Paul Tanner from Myrtleford Lions were pleased with the turnout which included several community-minded volunteers - otherwise not connected with any club.

This was particularly pleasing, even though numbers were down a little on last year, they said.

Lions president Tom White advised: “We had multiple sites where wood was sawn and split concurrently and we managed to stockpile a large quantity of split wood as well as make seven deliveries in and around Myrtleford.”

More are planned in the next fortnight.

Paul Tanner said an estimated 10 tonne of firewood was collected on the day.

Chris McCracken said that she was very happy to make her 100-acre property available for this long-running and worthy community cause.

Veterans Bryan Meehan and Mike McGurgan manned the Rotary barbecue trailer to provide all the volunteers a well-earned lunch.

Paul Tanner said the input from the footballers after a tough match the day before, was commendable.

“The footballers split wood by hand, faster than some experienced people on a mechanical wood splitter and were also quick to load trailers, so their efforts are highly valued,” he said.

“Seasoned campaigners, Craig Hodgetts and Jim Broz were first to arrive and last to leave – leading by example and setting the pace all day.”

Those who rely on firewood for warmth and/or cooking and do not have the means to purchase or collect it, can call Tom White of Myrtleford Lions on 0438 131 065, to discuss.

Talk tackles resilience and adversity

By BRODIE EVERIST

THE Myrtleford Football Netball Club’s (MFNC) Mental Wellbeing Round, sponsored by North East Civil Construction, kicked off last week with a guest talk from former AFL great Steven Baker.

Mr Baker said the talk was primarily about handling adversity, based on his experience as an AFL player and his post-AFL career, and his GRIT strategy – comprising Gratitude, Resilience, Inspiration and Team.

After his AFL career Mr Baker said he struggled with mental health due to the death of his father over 10 years ago, and he was later affected by the death of cricket great Shane Warne, who was a personal friend.

“I was going through some depression, didn’t want to talk to anyone, and I looked back to what helped me through when my dad passed away,” he said.

“That was being around positive people and support, doing things physically that were hard.

“That’s where GRIT was born; I started talking about it, sharing my story.”

Mr Baker said the GRIT strategy assists in developing a positive mindset.

“Each night I write down three things I’m grateful for,” he said.

“Resilience is my daily routine of doing hard things each day, [which] builds not only physical strength, but mental toughness.”

This is the fourth consecutive mental health lunch-

eon run by the club, and the third time the club has worked with local schools expand the mental health focus over the week.

Chelsea Frawley, community manager of the Danny Frawley Centre for Health and Wellbeing, was to speak to students and teachers

from Myrtleford schools on Monday and Tuesday.

Today well-known psychologist Dr Michael CarrGregg will be speaking at the Bright Pavilion at Pioneer Park.

MFNC vice president and chair of the wellbeing team John Pryor said they are

4WD enthusiasts take to the road for kids facing cancer

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

BRIGHT will soon welcome more than 60 4WD enthusiasts into the town on Friday afternoon, after the 24-strong convoy completes its five-day adventure through the Victorian Highlands.

The fundraising event is run by Australian charity; Camp Quality, who have been supporting children impacted by cancer, and their families, for more than 40 years.

For Bright resident Ben Trist, Camp Quality’s cause is one close to home as his son was diagnosed with a brain tumour at two years old.

Mr Trist said his son underwent emergency brain surgery and then spent 12 months at Sydney Children’s Hospital for radiation therapy.

“During this time we were looked after on a daily basis by a child life therapist,” he said.

“The help and support that she gave my son and family was amazing.

opportunity to raise funds to support kids and families dealing with cancer.

“The car we are taking this year is an 80 series Toyota Landcruiser.

“I used to have a specialised Toyota 4x4 dismantling yard and the 80 series is an easy base to set up.

“I have previously participated in Camp Quality events and when I heard about FUNx4 and that it was finishing in my hometown, I couldn’t not jump on board.

“Anywhere in the high country has great 4x4 tracks to explore; you really can’t go wrong with any location in the Victorian High Country, it is all beautiful and all amazing.

“Pick a spot to start in and go for it, you will love it.”

hoping to expand the week further into the Alpine Shire.

“In conjunction with Alpine Health, we’re looking at expanding it across the whole Ovens Valley,” he said.

“Reaching out into Bright as well, and maybe over into the Kiewa Valley to Mount Beauty.”

Held between the Myrtleford Saints and the Yarrawonga Pigeons, the club’s annual Mental Health round sees the winning team take home the #Bekindtoyourmind shield.

Myrtleford took the shield this year, winning five of eight games over both clubs’ netball and football grades.

Mr Baker also said he was hoping to run into Yarrawonga coach Steve Johnson, an AFL contemporary who played for Geelong and Greater Western Sydney.

“I heard Stevie J was in town, so I’m going to try and hunt him down and have a rematch,” he said.

“My son’s cancer unfortunately returned and we lost him when he was seven years old.

“I just want to be able to try and help in any way possible all of the other families going through this terrible journey and supporting Camp Quality is

“It wasn’t until almost a year later I met her at a Camp Quality event and found out she was employed by Camp Quality and not the hospital.

my way of doing that.”

Fortunately for Ben, 4WD has been a life-long interest.

“I grew up with it and have continued doing it through my travelling and camping and just love the adventure of it,” he said.

“I have been involved with Camp Quality for a number of years and this event is a great

The parade of off-roading vehicles left Mansfield on Sunday and are travelling through the alpine back roads before arriving in Bright late this Friday afternoon.

This year’s event was sold out, with the 24 vehicles participating, and has already raised nearly $100,000.

Autumn in Umbria

An evening of food, wine and Patrizia Simone in conversation recounting stories of growing up in historic Umbria. Enjoy a three-course meal of rich, seasonal Umbrian cuisine, lovingly prepared by renowned chef Patrizia Simone, perfectly matched with Iocal Italian varietals. Patrizia joins food writer Richard Cornish in what promises to be a lively conversation, sharing stories behind the dishes, their insights and love of food and Italy. A night not to be missed for food enthusiasts & the perfect start to your La Fiera weekend.

Date: Friday 17 May 2024

Time: 6.30pm – 9.00ish

Booking: On sale from 9.00am, Friday 19 April.

Tickets via: www.lafiera.com.au

Movie Night

La Chimera

Italian movie night hosted by the Myrtleford Film Society

Date: Saturday 18 May 2024

Time: 6.00pm – 9.00pm

Location: EMPAC Theatre

Tickets via: www.lafiera.com.au

FUNX4: 4WD enthusiasts are heading our way to fundraise for kids facing cancer.

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS: (From left) North East Civil Construction HR manager Jeremy Dwyer, guest speaker Steven Baker, Myrtleford P12 College principal Zlatko Pear, MFNC vice president John Pryor and Marian College senior school leader Brad Carroll at the MFNC mental health luncheon last Saturday.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

NSW band to play in Bright

AMERICANA, blues, folk, and rock group Hussy Hicks will perform in Bright on May 1 at the Bright Courthouse Theatre, 1-3 Park Street.

Supported by local duo Life Dreamers, the event runs from 6-9pm.

The band’s Bright performance is a part of an Australian tour promoting their new album.

Go to https://www. trybooking.com/events/ landing/1205049? for tickets.

Mosaic project flies to completion

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

THE Myrtleford Mosaic Trail’s Bird Gallery will be unveiled this month, the result of over a year of collaboration between local artists.

The project was led by the famed Crackpots duo who began their ‘guerilla mosaics’ back in 2019, decorating the riverwalk in the dark of night to the delight of users.

The idea for a bird gallery became reality thanks to a $22,040 grant from Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal (FRRR) and the Federal Government, with Myrtleford Men’s Shed pitching in to help.

The Crackpots also joined forces with local artist illustrator Sarah Al-

len, whose designs in her children’s book Busy Beaks were the blueprint for the mosaics.

Crackpot 2 said this was a new process for the duo but a fun challenge.

“We were really excited to collaborate another artist and she was stoked to see them come alive; she’s an amazing artist who promotes our local flora and fauna,” she said.

“Crackpot 1 had the idea to create something in that space four years ago; early on in our mosaic days.

“It wasn’t until we put it to Landcare that they applied for the FRRR grant and we could get started.

“There were lots of people involved, it’s a real collaborative ef-

Cafe and social enterprise ends after ten years

By BRODIE EVERIST

BRIGHT’S Dumu Balcony Cafe had its last day of operation on Friday, with staff members, trainees and supporters holding a party afterwards to mark the occasion.

The cafe hosted young people from Wadeye, in the Northern Territory, in 10-week stints to teach them hospitality skills, customer service, and prepare them for work as part of a work readiness program.

Program co-founder and former cafe owner Bec Crawley spoke at the event, recounting the early days of the venue in 2014.

“We called ourself a social enterprise while social enterprises were just finding their place in the world,” she said.

“The words ‘break even’ probably describe what we do best.

“We put purpose over profit and I still can’t quite believe that we lasted this long.”

As reported in the Alpine Observer, the cafe has closed due to owners selling the property, but the work readiness program will continue with other local businesses.

Ms Crawley and cafe cofounder Marni Witts partnered

fort, even the birds that were chosen were through community consultation to reflect what people might see in the area.

“It’s very exciting, we both love the trail there, so it just creates a really nice spot to sit and stop rather than just keep walking past.

“Once you’re quiet and still it’s amazing how many birds you do hear in that space.

“We hope it’s a nice spot for everyone to contemplate the natural environment.”

The creative duo use recycled and reclaimed materials for all their mosaics.

“All the birds were made from donated crockery, discarded tiles and

samples and we search through our stash to find the right colour or texture,” Crackpot 2 said.

“Locals might be able to find a piece of their old tiles somewhere if they look closely.

“The making of the birds only begun halfway through the project, it was getting the pillar structures built that took the longest.”

To celebrate the completed project The Crackpots are inviting all to join them next weekend for the unveiling, which will feature professor of ecology David Watson as guest presenter.

The event will be held on Saturday, April 27 at the Ovens River Trail (Mosaic Trail) from 4pm.

with the Tharramurr Youth Indigenous Corporation so they could run the work readiness program, and around a year ago ownership of the cafe was

handed to the corporation.

“I left Dumu with its best mate, Thamarrurr Youth last year and like all children, it took its own direction and became

HAVING FUN: Ann Nguyen and Emma Todd at Dumu Cafe last Friday.

GOOD TIMES: (From left) Charlie Crawley, Peter Dumoo, Kurt Bunduck, Dick Parry and John Lanljin.

GETTING TOGETHER: Dumu Cafe staff and trainees gathered for a photo last Friday. PHOTOS: Brodie Everist

what it was meant to be,” Ms Crawley said.

“As Dumu flies away from its home, it does so in the peak of its life.”

Varied reports on fruit fly, but pest remains a seasonal threat

By BRODIE EVERIST

THIS season the impact of fruit fly has been mixed, according to local growers and gardeners, but the pest problem can be calamitous if left untreated.

Myrtleford horticulturalist Annette Smits said there had been large numbers of fruit fly in the area during the fruiting season, citing numbers in her own garden and two Beechworth property owners who had reported significant numbers of the fly.

“I had traps full; every fortnight I had to make new gel,” she said, referring to the attractant gel that kills the winged insects.

One of those Beechworth property owners, Mareike Borchard, said she had to strip her 10 apple trees of fruit due to an infestation, and she wasn’t sure how the pest got to her property.

“We live in the middle of the national park, so we were quite surprised,” she said.

“It could have been from animals, I don’t know.”

However, other reports on the fly have been mixed.

Three local orchards – two in the Alpine Shire and one in Whorouly – reported no problems with the fly.

Local gardener Alan Mitchinson said only one of his clients suffered from the pest this season, though he said he only has a small number of clients.

“As soon as we noticed we sprayed the trees and then netted them straight away,” he said.

“They came in fairly early this year.”

While he only had one client affected by fruit fly, he said he had heard other gardeners reporting problems with the pest.

According to the latest National Fruit Fly Strategy, there are a number of fruit fly types, but the most economically destruc-

tive are the Queensland Fruit Fly, which is distributed along the eastern seaboard into the Northern Territory, and the Mediterranean Fruit Fly, which lives in parts of Western Australia.

Both lays eggs in fruit, and upon hatching, the maggots will consume the fruit from the inside out, eventually leaving to pupate in the soil.

There are a number of

homemade recipes for fruit fly traps, with ingredients like vegemite, fruit, milk, sugar and even red wine, but most of them don’t work, according to Ms Smits.

Around 7-8 years ago she tested a number of fruit fly remedies, finding the most effective is the ‘BioTrap’, which combines a pheromone lure for the male fly and an attract-

ant gel for the female fly.

At the time she got the Myrtleford rural supplies cooperative TAFCO to begin selling the traps and associated lures.

After this year’s troubles she is happy to report TAFCO has got them back in stock.

As well as using traps, growers are advised to use fine netting and to pick up fallen fruit to stop the fly.

Added cost for landfill capping

By BRODIE EVERIST

ALPINE Shire councillors approved just over $30,000 of extra money for the second stage of the Porepunkah landfill rehabilitation at their meeting last week.

According to the council report, council awarded the contract for the construction of a landfill cap to Extons Pty Ltd for nearly $1,300,000 in October 2022, under their allocated budget of $1,560,000.

However, due to unforeseen additional scope and conditions encountered during excavation, a further $169,299 is required to complete the cap construction.

The report also noted $138,082 of extra costs for monitoring, auditing, testing and design under a separate contract.

To make up for the shortfall, councillors were recommended to approve the extra $30,653, funded from money set aside to manage the shire’s landfills.

According to council, additional scope and unforeseen conditions include geosynthetic clay liner testing, a survey to confirm benchmarks on site, and the relocation of waste during anchor trench excavations.

In response to a question from Cr Ron Janas, director of assets Alan Rees said the capping works would create a waterproof cover for the waste, allowing water to be drained away and captured appropriately.

“The main objective is to keep the waste dry so that we avoid oxidation,” he said.

Crs Sarah Nicholas, John Forsyth and Ron Janas voted for the funding approval.

Cr Katarina Hughes voted against.

Crs Simon Kelley, Tony Keeble and Kelli Prime were absent from the meeting.

Garden information evening

THE Myrtleford Community Garden are holding an information evening at Club Savoy, 252-254 Great Alpine Road, on April 23 from 6-8pm.

The evening will include a talk by wellknown permaculturalist Pete the Permie, who will speak on fruit tree varieties, rootstocks, grafting and spreading the fruit ripening period.

Light refreshments will be served.

TRAP ‘EM: Myrtleford horticulturalist Annette Smits recommends using commercially-available fruit fly traps to stop the pest. PHOTO: Brodie Everist

Sun shines on skate comp

ALL manner of wheeled tricksters were showing their moves at the Myrtleford instalment of the North East Skate Park Series last Saturday at the Myrtleford Skate Park amid lovely weekend weather.

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

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 open to skating, BMX, scooters and roller skating.

The Bright instalment of the series will take place in May.

Councillors approve change to amenities land purchase

By BRODIE EVERIST

ALPINE Shire councillors have approved a change to the proposed purchase of land in Tawonga South for a public toilet following a request from landowners before the sale.

At a special meeting last week councillors were recommended to allow an additional easement on the proposed subdivision, giving the current landowners increased access to land not in-

cluded in council’s purchase.

An easement is a right for non-landowners to use land for a specific purpose – in this case, allowing the neighbours of the proposed subdivision to drive from council land into their property.

In August 2023 council voted to purchase the Lshaped parcel of land along the Kiewa Valley Highway for a public toilet, carpark and a footpath heading to the Kiewa River.

According to Mr Jeremy,

the landowners have requested a second road easement on the right-hand side of the plot, when viewed from the highway.

The initial plans had already included a road easement allowing landowners access to the back of their property.

Mr Jeremy said the landowners had asked for the second easement to help them develop their land.

“We haven’t seen an application for a permit, so we don’t have certainty on how

their land will be developed, but they would like the opportunity to have vehicular access through the righthand side boundary of the plot,” he said.

Mr Jeremy said the additional easement does not constrain council’s ability to develop the land as originally planned.

According to the council report, the extra easement also avoids an extra driveway crossing over a footpath parallel with the highway.

“Every time we introduce a crossover, particularly over a shared trail, you introduce the risk of collision between vehicles entering and exiting the free hold land across the crossover and users of the trail,” Mr Jeremy said. “Where it’s practical to do, we try to minimise the number of those crossovers.”

According to the council report, it will cost council $392,682 for the 1168m2 plot of land, exclusive of GST, stamp duty, conveyancing

costs and statutory charges relating to subdividing the property.

Mr Jeremy said council had not had any conversations with the landowners regarding a change in the land’s sale price due to the extra easement.

Councillors Sarah Nicholas, John Forsyth and Ron Janas voted for the proposal.

Cr Katarina Hughes voted against.

Crs Simon Kelley, Tony Keeble and Kelli Prime were absent from the meeting.

TAKING THE PLUNGE: Beechworth resident Gus Huguenin warming up.

SERIOUS SKATING: The Myrtleford Skate Park was filled with skaters prior to the skating competition.

BMX BUFFS: (from left) Rhys Brown, Hunter Coleman and Blake Russell were winners in the under-13s BMX division.

Now

Plus Standish Street Surgery & Bright Allied Health

For appointments call 5752 2817 Hearing Services

ANZAC Appeal now on

By BRODIE EVERIST

RSL members and volunteers are on the streets selling badges and other items for the ANZAC Appeal in the lead up to April 25.

The Myrtleford RSL began their work last weekend, with ANZAC badges and other items available for sale at Coles, Food-

works, Newsxpress, Dahlsens and in the industrial estate.

Donation tins have also been distributed in several businesses.

Myrtleford RSL appeals officer Janet Toner is looking forward to seeing their volunteer sellers very busy on each twohour shift as she tries to break Myrtleford RSL’s appeal re-

PEOPLE AROUND TOWN

Alexander Jackson

How long have you lived in Bright?

Five months now.

What do you do for a living?

I’ve got an online business in holistic medicine: like herbal medicine, homeopathy, naturopathy, and aromatherapy.

What are your hobbies or interests?

I’ve been in the hip hop music industry down in Melbourne for 22 years.

I’m a hip hop music producer, I also dabble in techno, drum and bass, electronica, a bit of experimental with raga and reggae-type stuff, just producing instrumentals and experimental trip hop stuff like DJ Shadow.

I’ve got my own record label in Canada and America and I released through that.

I was a prevalent figure in the Melbourne street art scene. From 2002 it really started kicking off and I kind of retired from that in 2007 and went into music.

I used to be in the graffiti scene and the arts in Melbourne. Lots of different art – so comic book drawings and street art, lots of stencils, stickers and paste ups.

What do you like about the area?

The Ovens River, the trout fishing, four-wheel driving, camping.

Winter opens up and you get the snowfields, which I really like.

BRIGHT

cords, set in the past two years.

Members of the Bright RSL are outside the larger Bright Hospital Op Shop store (next to the newsagents) from 10am-2pm every day until ANZAC Day.

Depending on volunteer numbers they may also be outside the Belmores office on Ireland Street.

Except on Sunday, the Mount Beauty RSL will begin selling badges one week before April 25 on Hollonds Street from 9am to midday, and outside the Tawonga South Post Office from 8-11am.

All ANZAC Appeal money raised go towards supporting veterans and their families.

It’s a quiet town, lots of locals and I know a few of the mountain people around.

I went to school in Albury so I had a strong connection with Yackandandah, Myrtleford, Porepunkah and the King Valley. I’ve been coming through here for many years on the way to the snow and stopping in.

Where would you take visitors to showcase the area?

I’d take them around Mount Buffalo, the chalet up there. There’s good hangliding, good rock climbing.

Bushwalking around Hotham, Dinner Plains, Mount Feathertop. Snowshoeing and apres-ski is good for people who just want a bit of cheap walking around the snow, they don’t have to hire the gear and get the lift tickets.

I like horse riding, so if there’s any places you can go horse riding, which I used to do around Mansfield, Delatite Shire.

Fishing, mountain bike riding, just the local recreational, touristy kind of things.

Is there anything you would change about the area?

I wouldn’t mind seeing the tobacco industry fire up again, which the Italians used to run.

Normal Australian tobacco to get it out of the overseas production companies and get it healthy again.

I’d like to see the rivers cleaned up a bit – do a bit of work to get the carp out of there and protect the Murray cod, local fisheries and native species.

Illegal fishing I’d like to see policed pretty hard, and illegal hunting and illegal camping up in the state forests.

MOUNT BEAUTY

Trey Rogers

Have you ever lived here full time?

No , I don’t live here I live in Melbourne, but I visit family here a lot.

What do you like about the area?

I admire the beautiful scenery and the peaceful atmosphere. I also appreciate the outdoor recreational opportunities like hiking and skiing that Mount Beauty offers, as well as the friendly community vibe.

Would you like to see any additions or changes to the place?

Expanding the availability of cafes open later and increasing entertainment options for visitors and locals.

What do you do, your hobbies and interests?

My hobbies are playing basketball, listening to music, I enjoy walking in nature and hearing the birds. I design websites for businesses.

Where do you like to visit when you are up here?

I particularly enjoy visiting the stunning waterfalls like Bogong Falls and exploring the scenic trails around Falls Creek.

The years go by: ‘Lest we forget’ PART ONE

By JOHN TAYLOR OAM, Myrtleford and District Historical Society Inc.

YRTLEFORD’S A

MD Lowerson VC Memorial Square acknowledges the service to country of local men and women over the past 110 years.

A total of 116 World War I enlistments and 28 ‘In Memoriam’ were recorded on the original memorial dedicated on ANZAC Day in 1923.

Those commemorated all have a personal story and just three family names are recalled here to acknowledge service given in the second decade of the 20th century.

The Sanderson Brothers

On March 14, 1916, the three Sanderson brothers enlisted in the army at Wangaratta.

William Henry (‘Bill’), aged almost 34 and at 6 feet 51/2 inches was the tallest, James Francis (‘Jim’) almost 29 and John Edward (‘Jack’), almost 22 years.

All embarked on the ‘Persic’ for Plymouth, England on June 3, 1916, in the 37th Battalion and then proceeded to France in November.

The Sandersons were three of ten children, born to Sophia and William Sanderson of Buffalo River.

Tragically, they had lost their mother, aged 51 in 1910, from double pneumonia after she had nursed all her children through a measles epidemic.

Bill received a severe gunshot wound in the leg on June 25, 1917, and was transferred to Bethnal Green Military Hospital, London. He returned home in April 1918.

Jim was hospitalised with influenza and mumps and later bronchitis, and suffered extensive wounds in February, 1917.

Later returning to his battalion, he was reported missing in action in Belgium on October 12, 1917.

A subsequent Court of Enquiry reported Jim was killed in action and official confirmation was finally forwarded to his father on May 11, 1918.

Jim’s campaign medals arrived home in 1923, one year after his brother’s. Jack too contracted the mumps in France in February 1917 and after leave transferred to the 38th Battalion and then a posting to brigade HQ as a transport driver. He returned to Australia on the ‘Rio Pardo’ in May 1919.

Both Bill and Jack Sanderson’s return saw

them again indulge in community life and a range of farm work in Buffalo River.

Clarence Teakel

Private Clarrie Teakel, born at Bright to Charles and Elizabeth Teakel in 1896, enlisted at West Maitland, NSW on September 11, 1915, where he was employed by the NSW Tramways Department.

He embarked on the ‘Orsova’ on March 11, 1916, and was assigned to the fourth reinforcements of the 30th Battalion.

In England, he was posted to his battalion at Weymouth.

In September 1916 the British Medical Board decided that Clarrie not serve in Europe, but be confined to ‘Home Service’ as he was diagnosed with dermatitis.

During October and November he appeared before a Court Marshall at Penham Downs for using a falsified leave pass and received 59

days confinement with equivalent loss of pay.

Throughout 1917, Clarrie was frequently receiving hospital treatment for his worsening skin condition and during May 1918 a sister and brother wrote on behalf of the family enquiring about Clarrie’s whereabouts and state of health.

They were advised that a response could only be given to ‘next of kin’, Mr C Teakel. Clarrie died of ‘illness’ on October 2, 1918, five weeks before Armistice Day.

At the time he was a patient at ‘Harefield House’, No 1 Australian Auxiliary Hospital, suffering from dermatitis and bronchial pneumonia.

He was buried at Harefield, UK on October 7 in the St Mary The Virgin Church Yard, his funeral conducted by a Methodist chaplain with support of seven medical staff, a firing party and bugler.

His tablet in the cemetery reads:

‘2464 C Teakel, 30th Bn Australian Infantry, 2nd October, 1918. Age 23. MY DEAR BOY’.

In a parcel dated April 29, 1919 Clarence Teakel’s personal effects were returned to his parents in Myrtleford: shaving gear, wallet and photos and post cards from home.

Then, a photograph of his grave arrived on May 3.

In 1922, Clarrie’s father received his full set of medals and messages from the King.

Henry Norman Rothery

Private Henry Norman Rothery, was born at Hurdle Flat and at the time of his enlistment at 19 years and 10 months he was employed as a clerk at Merino in the Western District of Victoria.

He enlisted at Birregurra on March 3,1915 and named his father Joseph as next of kin.

‘Norman’ (as he was known) had lived at Myrtleford and Beechworth in the North East, where his parents were prominent citizens.

He embarked for Egypt on May 5, 1915, on the ‘Euripides’, a member of the 24th Infantry Battalion, D Company, and after training proceeded to the Gallipoli Peninsula as a member of the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force on August 30, 1915.

On December 1, 1915, Henry’s captain reported him as ‘missing’, later confirmed by his Commanding Officer on December 4.

Several comrades in the firing line reported his death at a Board of Enquiry held on January 21, 1916. When relieved from Lone Pine, they had not been able to be account for Norman; he had been assisting his sergeant major in ‘White’s Gully’ when a Turkish bombardment killed 12 Australians.

Private Rothery’s date of death was confirmed by

the Board as November 29, 1915, and announced in the Ovens & Murray Advertiser on February 2, 1916.

Prior to official news of his son’s death, Joseph Rothery had sought clarification on Norman’s ‘missing’ status twice in late December and his sister Nurse Elizabeth Rothery of the ‘Base Hospital, St Kilda Road’ sought information on January 3, 1916.

Private Henry Norman Rothery’s death is commemorated on the Lone Pine Memorial, Gallipoli. In 1921-22, Joseph Rothery applied for and received a ‘Memorial Plaque’ and ‘The King’s Message’, a ‘British War Medal’ and a ‘Victory Medal’ to acknowledge his son’s sacrifice.

POST SCRIPT: Both Private Clarence Teakel and Private Henry Norman Rothery will have their names projected on the Australian War Memorial ‘Hall of Memory’ on the evening of May 3, 2024.

Lest We Forget

METHODIST CHURCH HONOUR BOARD, 1914-1918: In the porch of the Uniting Church, Private Clarrie Teakel is listed with 21 comrades who enlisted in World War I, five of whom paid the supreme sacrifice.

HENRY NORMAN ROTHERY MEMORIAL WINDOW: At St Paul’s Anglican Church, the memory of Private Henry Norman Rothery “who fell fighting for the Empire at Gallipoli” is honoured. “Greater Love hath no man than this.”

SANDERSON BROTHERS, 1916: Jim, Jack and Biil Sanderson photographed at Wangaratta Recruitment Centre, as they appeared in a brochure encouraging enlistment….”the tallest of them is 6ft. 51/2 in.”

Lifestyle living in Laceby

THIS beautiful Lifestyle property is perfectly set on 10.3 acres within minutes of Wangaratta on a sealed road.

This charming brick home provides three bedrooms, two bathrooms and study with a generously proportioned open plan kitchen, living and dining space.

The updated kitchen offers full electric cooking with great storage.

Upon entry you are greeted with an abundance of natural light, polished floorboards, high ceilings, wood burning heater and a wide verandah surrounds the home.

The spacious primary bedroom provides a full ensuite and walk in robe.

Wangaratta branch

76 Reid Street

Open weekdays

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

1300 004 863 humebank.com.au

Two further guest bedrooms all contain built in robes with a designated study and second living.

Ducted reverse cycle heating and cooling provides the perfect climate all year round.

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

property offers a fantastic opportunity for the family, perfectly located to both secondary schools, multiple primary schools and early education providers.

‘The Rockery’ 354 Cemetery Rd, Eldorado

• Signature Alistair Knox 3-bed mud brick & recycled timber family home, on 41 hectares

• Open plan lounge, dining & living, clerestory windows capturing abundance of natural light. Beautiful parquetry flooring

• Equine infrastructure including spacious loose boxes & day yards. 5 individual paddocks

• Ample water via spring-fed dams & 2x 250,000 litre tanks to domestic/household

• 4 car carport, workshop & other amenities

• Exceptional & tightly held grazing property including 54 ha cleared & 60HA native bush

• Magnificent Red Gums, extensive Ovens River frontage, numerous billabongs & city water

• Machinery & disused shearing shed, power connected, steel/timber stockyards & crush

• 24 Meg high security irrigation licence

• Approximately 12.8 ha of leasehold land

• Outstanding opportunity to secure a quality rural asset positioned only 8km from town

• Inspection highly recommended

114 ha

FOR SALE $1,650,000

Superb low maintenance living in three b’room home

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

The home consists of two separate living areas, three bedrooms all with built in wardrobes, and the main having an ensuite and walk in wardrobe.

Heating and cooling are well catered for with gas ducted heating and evaporative cooling throughout, gas cooktop, electric oven and gas boosted solar hot water service.

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

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

Agent |

Nutrien Harcourts

5722 9444

$500,000 - $550,000

11A Williams Road, Wangaratta

close to schools, bakery, post office and walking tracks.

Call Paul Reid at Harcourts Real Estate to arrange your private inspection 0417 537 520.

Enjoy family comfort in the heart of West End

NESTLED in the West End of Wangaratta, this welcoming family includes three bedrooms, with an ensuite to the front main bedroom.

The heart of the home is a spacious kitchen, seamlessly connected to a meals and dining area, perfect for gatherings.

A large formal lounge, coupled with a second separate living area, provides ample space for family activities or quiet time.

Year-round comfort is well catered for with modern amenities including a split system, gas heating, and refrigerated cooling.

Outside, a paved entertaining area invites alfresco dining, while a single carport with rear access leads to a workshop and storage shed.

The honme is conveniently located

Ancient River Grazing – Lurg (NUTR)

60x60 Angus Cows 1st – 3rd Angus CAF. Jarobee, Black Aqua Blood with sappy 4-12 week old CAF (To be drafted into lines of 10-15 per pen)

GROWN CATTLE

LR, IP & MO

Humphry - Springhurst (AWN)

15 Gelbvieh/Jersey X Heifers 1415mths NSM

BL Feldtmann - Dookie (AWN)

YOUNG CATTLE

Burrayang Pty Ltd –

Milawa (NUTR)

65 Angus/Hereford X M/sex 10-11mths Injemira Blood WEANED

KT & GR VincentBobinawarrah (AWN)

40 Angus M/Sex 1012mths ‘Fernhill & Te

Mania Blood’ WEANED

Shellorr – Greta South (NUTR)

40 Angus & Angus/ Hereford x M/sex 9-11 months WEANED

Thynne Family Trust –Gundowring (NUTR)

30 Angus & Angus X M/sex 8-9 mths ‘Rennylea’ Blood

Garry Nash & Co.

5722 2663

$520,000

5 Spink Avenue, Wangaratta

near schools, childcare, walking tracks, and public transport.

Discover where comfort and convenience meet in the heart of the West End.

7 Angus/Friesian X Heifers 18mths

Greta Valley Grazing –Greta (NUTR)

25 Angus M/sex 9-10mths ‘Jove Angus’ Blood

Merindah Farm – Boralma (NUTR)

25 Angus M/sex 9-10mths

Yerrin Past – Barjarg (NUTR)

18 Angus & Poll Hereford Steers 10-11mths ‘Injemira Blood’ WEANED

JH & TM PartonBenalla (AWN)

15 Angus M/Sex 9-10mths, ‘Riga Blood’

Pennington Pastoral –Barjarg (NUTR)

10 Poll Hereford Steers 10-11mths ‘Injemira

Is it hot or not?

THE NEW GENERATION: MG4 is

the first to use the innovative Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) that will underpin a new generation of MGs.

By ALISTAIR KENNEDY, Marque Motoring

TO begin this review of the MG4 XPower, the company announced that it was switching to national driveway pricing for its entire fleet.

In the case of the MG4 range the new driveaway prices replace the previous manufacturer’s RRP and equate to savings of around $3000 to $5000.

The fully-electric MG4 was added to the MG range midway through 2023.

Unlike the ZS and HS EVs which are modified versions of the respective petrol vehicles, MG4 is a dedicated EV and the first to use the innovative Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) that will underpin a new generation of MGs.

MSP features rear-wheel drive, 50:50 weight distribution and thin battery technology.

MG4 comes in a choice of five variants: Excite 51 kWh, Excite 64 kWh, Essence 64 kWh, Essence 64 kWh, Essence 77 kWh Long Range and XPower 64 kWh.

The first four models have a single, rear-mounted motor, while XPower – the one we’re reviewing here – adds a front motor for all-wheel drive.

Driveaway prices now range from $39,990 for the RWD Excite 51 kWh through to $59,990 for the high-performance AWD XPower.

STYLING

While the MG ZS and HS models follow the predictable and functional SUV styling, MG4 is easily the most

attractive vehicle we’ve seen yet from the Chinese carmaker.

A sleek profile is topped by a two-tone roof and there is an active intake grille shutter – no need for an ugly radiator intrusion up front.

It rides on 18-inch alloys with aerodynamic covers, with LED rear lights, distinctive rear centre light bar and a twin-aero rear spoiler.

There is no specific badging to distinguish the XPower from the rest of the MG4 range, apart from the name being shown on the tinny orange brake caliper covers.

XPower also gets re-tuned suspension for 25 percent extra stiffness, beefier anti-roll bars front and rear, re-calibrated steering and torque vectoring.

INTERIOR

There’s little inside the XPower to distinguish it from the rest of the MG4 range.

Only the inclusion of a Track Mode feature activated from the touchscreen allows the driver to check lap and stage times, giving a clue to its performance alter ego.

The aforementioned Modular Scalable Platform creates good cabin and storage space, bearing in mind that it’s a compact hatchback and slightly smaller than Toyota Corolla, Hyundai i30 and Mazda3.

The two-level boot floor caters for 363 litres with the rear seats in place and 1177

litres when folded.

POWERTRAIN

XPower is the only MG4 variant to have electric motors for both the front and rear axles to provide the benefit of all-wheel drive.

All others have rearmounted motors powered by either 51 kWh (Excite), 64 kWh (Excite or Essence) or 77 kWh (Essence Long Range) batteries.

The dual-motor, all-wheel drive MG4 XPower uses the mid-range 64 kWh battery to produce 320kW (150 kW from the front motor and 170 kW from the rear).

This, together with 600Nm of torque, makes it the most powerful production MG in Australia to date, capable of 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds.

Range is listed at 385km on the WLTP cycle. Not surprisingly that will drop down under aggressive driving.

There are four regenerative braking levels down to onepedal mode.

SAFETY

MG4 received the maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating when tested last year.

Standard features include six airbags, enhanced ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution and emergency brake assist, and electronic stability program, reversing camera, hill start assist with auto hold, automatic door unlocking and a collapsible steering column.

Also, standard is the MG Pilot

advanced driver assistance system which adds lane keep assist and departure warning, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, traffic jam assist, intelligent headlight control, speed assistance system and driver inattention alert.

Unfortunately, MG has followed the growing trend to switch various controls to the touchscreen, including the most commonly-used audio and air conditioning.

While it might suit the stylists it takes far too much of the driver’s attention away from the road ahead.

Interestingly, there’s a move underway in Europe where Euro NCAP are planning to deduct points where certain functions are not easily accessible via physical knobs and/or buttons.

Let’s hope that Australia’s ANCAP assessors follow that lead.

DRIVING

The first thing that you notice when you’re ready to set off in the MG4 is that there’s no starter button or ignition key.

Rather, the car is ready to go within a few seconds of the driver sitting down and once the ‘Ready’ light shows on the driver information screen, it’s simply a case of moving a circular knob from ‘P’ to either ‘D’ or “R’.

One of the most appealing features of all electric vehicles is the instant acceleration that can see them leap ahead of

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE:

MG4 EXCITE 51 $39,990

MG4 EXCITE 64 $44,990

MG4 ESSENCE 64 $46,990

MG4 LONG RANGE 77 $52,990

MG4 XPOWER AWD $59,990

NOTE: These are driveaway prices and include all government and dealer delivery charges.

the traffic from standstill.

The MG4 XPower raises the bar even further with its stunning 3.8-second 0-100km/h sprint.

The jury’s still out on whether the XPower meets the hot hatch pub test.

While it clearly ticks most of the boxes in terms of its spectacular acceleration and speed, it doesn’t provide the same driver input and feedback as its petrolpowered rivals.

For a start there’s no manual gearbox – well, no gearbox at all – which is such an important ingredient for the driving enthusiast.

Likewise, while silent running is a positive feature for most EV buyers, the XPower misses out on the characteristic hot hatch engine sound track.

Ride and handling, although very good, lacks the feel of established hot

hatches nor is it as balanced through corners.

SUMMING UP

Ever since the first of the new Chinese MGs arrived here in 2018, we’ve found ourselves cringing a bit when cornered by devotees of the classic British sportscars that carried that iconic badge for decades.

Not any more … because the MG4 in general, and the XPower in particular, can hold their own in any company.

With prices breaking through the key $40k barrier and range over 400km, depending on the variant, they open the EV market to a whole new customer base.

At just under $60k the XPower offers almost supercar performance at a fraction of the price.

But does it qualify as a hot hatch? We’d say no – not enough driving enjoyment.

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ONE-ON-ONE CHAT WITH THE MAYOR & CEO – MOUNT BEAUTY

BRIGHT

WE ACCEPT

The opportunity for a one-on-one discussion with the Mayor and CEO will be held at the Mount Beauty Library on Friday, 26 April from 9am until 10am. There will be four 15-minute timeslots available for people to come along and ask questions and have a short discussion on a topic or issue of interest.

basis, and close on Sunday, 21 April. Register for your session at engage. alpineshire.vic.gov.au

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AT ALPE DE BUFFALO

place to ensure the safe staging of the Alpe de Buffalo Junior Cycling event:

Saturday, 20 April 2024

8am – 11am Coronation Ave, Bright will have one lane closed (Pioneer Park side heading to Wandiligong) between the Pavilion and Mystic Lane. 1.30pm – 3.30pm Mt Buffalo Rd near

the time trial. The speed limit is reduced with no road closure.

Saturday, 21 March 2024

7.15am – 10.30am Mt Buffalo Rd closed from the gate (up only).

8am – 8.30am reduced speed on Buckland Valley Rd.

Prepare for possible delays and additional cyclists on the road during these times.

FREE IMMUNISATION CLINICS –APRIL 2024

Childhood Immunisation Schedule including Secondary Catch Ups: Children - 0 to 5 years of age standard schedule

Students – Year 7 & Year 10 Secondary School based program including 15 to 19 yo catch ups

MOUNT BEAUTY

Venue: Lakeview Children’s Centre, Lakeside Avenue, Mt Beauty

Date/time: Wednesday, 24/04/2024, 9.30am to 10.30am

MYRTLEFORD

Venue: Myrtleford Senior Citizens Centre, Smith Street, Myrtleford

Date/time: Tuesday, 23/04/2024, 9.30am to 10.30am – Please note Tuesday due to Public Holiday

BRIGHT

Venue: Alpine View Children’s Centre, 23 Deacon Avenue, Bright

Date/time: Friday, 26/04/2024, 9.30am to 10.30am

MYRTLEFORD

Venue: Myrtleford Senior Citizens Centre, Smith Street Myrtleford

Date/Time: Tuesday, 23/04/2024 11.00am12.00pm – Please note Tuesday due to Public Holiday

MOUNT BEAUTY

Venue: Mount Beauty Auditorium, Bogong High Plains Rd Mount Beauty

Date/time: Wednesday, 24/04/2024, 11.00am – 12.00pm

Venue: Bright Community Centre (Old U3A Building), 1 Railway Ave Bright

Date/time: Friday, 26/04/2024, 11.00am –12.00pm

If you are unwell, or are a suspected or please do not attend. Contact MCH on 03 5755 0555 for further information. Book online by typing portal.cirv.vic.gov.au into your web browser. Bookings preferred.

STREET CLOSURES – ANZAC DAY

The following roads will be closed for short periods of time to allow the safe staging of Anzac Day Services.

Myrtleford | Thursday 25 April 2024 from 10.30am to approx. 12noon

Great Alpine Road closed between Standish St and Albert St / Lewis Ave

Clyde St closed between Standish St, Queen St, and Great Alpine Road

Smith St will be closed for a short period between the Myrtleford RSL Hall and Standish St for the march. A detour will be in place for all vehicles, please follow the signs. Note: the detour is not suitable for vehicles exceeding 50 ton. These vehicles will be required to halt for approximately 1 hour during the service. The V/Line bus stops on Great Alpine Road will be temporarily moved to the corner of Albert and Elgin Sts, in front of the Old School Museum during the closure.

Mount Beauty | Thursday 25 April 2024 from 10.30am to approx. 11.45am

Lakeside Ave will be closed between Kiewa Valley Highway and Kiewa Cres. A detour will be in place for all vehicles. Please follow the signs. Park St will be closed for a short period between Kiewa and Tawonga Cres for the march.

*Note that this will also close Hollonds

Hollonds Street will be able to exit via Park Street after the march.

Bright | Thursday 25 April 2024 5.45am to approx. 6.45am

Ireland Street closed at Barnard Street/ Camp Street intersection

Ireland Street closed at the Cobden Street roundabout Burke Street closed at the roundabout (clock tower)

Anderson Street closed at Wood Street intersection 10.00am to approx. 12.00pm

Ireland Street closed at Mafeking Square roundabout Ireland Street closed at the Cobden Street roundabout Bourke Street closed at the entry to the roundabout Anderson Street closed at Wood Street intersection Ireland Street closed at Poet’s Corner 10.30am to approx. 11.00am

Bakers Gully Rd closed between Park Street and Cobden

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FOR GENUINE SALE, the chance to purchase the complete package when it comes to heading off on the trip of a lifetime! The package includes a 2010 Toyota GX V8 trayback ute with extended cabin and steel and canvas canopy over rear tray, the ute has done a genuine 51,200kms, it has been fitted out with over $30,000 in extras, reg (1MP2DP). The caravan is a 2016 Jayco Silverline Outback, 21’6” in length, the Silverline was the top of the range in that model, it is fitted with all of the quality appliances you would expect in a van of this quality, it is also fitted with a queen size electric slide out bed, it has travelled approx 6000kms, all on bitumen surfaces, the van comes with over $10,000 worth of extras, it is a must see to believe what is included in this package. Would possibly sell the ute and van seperately, $150,000 negotiable, must sell. Ph 0407 218 028.

HOLDEN Vy Commordore 2003, car is mechanically A1 serviced and maintained regularly, very clean inside and out, no dints or scratched, always garaged, comes with HSV body kit and door plates, 295 289km, reg till Sep 2024 (1CT5VS), $6200 ono. Ph 0427 214 821.

FREE RANGE HENS

ISA Brown Pullets, POL $28ea. Pick upWang to Bright

Becky & Hugh (03) 5798 1868 freerangehens.com.au

FIREWOOD Red gum, sugar and blue gum Telephone North East Firewood 0448 933 999

CUNDY, Elaine Marjorie.

11/4/1943 - 10/4/2024

Passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 10,2024 at Barwidgee Lodge. Aged 80 years.

Deary loved wife of Donald (dec).

Loved mother of Gary (dec), Heather and Alison.

Mother-in-law to Carolyn, Tim and Rick.

Loved Grandma to Zane, Bryce, Dayna, Amy, Bradley, Duncan, Shania, Hayden, Haymish, Shylah, Tahnee, Seth and Kesha.

Much adored Great Grandma to 9 great grandchildren.

Be at peace. Private family burial has taken place.

FARRONATO, Antonio.

16/9/1942 - 10/4/2024

Beloved husband of Gabriella. Eldest son of Bruno (dec) and Erminia (dec). Much loved father and father-in-law of Diana, Michael, Nadia and Kamal. Grandfather of Samuel, Alexander, Aidan and Aaron.

Forever loved and never forgotten by so many. Salami days will not be the same.

HANNA, Lillian “Grace”.

3/9/1935 – 8/4/2024

Loved wife of Bill (dec 1981) and Alan (dec 2001).

Forever loved mother of Wendy and James and mother-in-law of Kelvin and David. Cherished Grandma of Blair, Brianna, Maddy, Harvey and Remi. At rest in God’s Garden.

RICKARD, Noel.

In loving memory of Noel Rickard, fondly known as Rick. Sadly our Dad passed away on April 13, 2024 after battling the devastating effects of dementia. Despite spending the last 4 years in care, he never lost his sense of humor, keeping everyone entertained to the end.

Dad will be fondly remembered by family and friends as husband to Cheryl, a loving father to Danielle, Wesley and Bianca, father-in-law to Rob, a proud Pa to Connor, Fletcher, Summer, Ashley, Xander, Hayley, Caleb and Holly and beloved brother to Mavis and Fred.

We would like to extend a huge thank you to the staff at Illoura Aged care for their amazing care and support. We will all miss him dearly.

FARRONATO

A requiem mass for the repose of the soul of Antonio Farronato will be offered in St Mary’s Catholic Church, Lawrence Street, Myrtleford on Friday, April 19, 2024 commencing at 10.30am, followed by private cremation.

HANNA

The celebration of the life of Grace Hanna will be held in the Mason Park Chapel, 95 Mason Street, Wangaratta, on Saturday, April 20, 2024 commencing at 10.30am.

Burial will follow at the Myrtleford Lawn Cemetery.

Mason Park Funerals

5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

STEPHENS (Gurney), Olive.

In loving memory of our beautiful Mum. 60 years ago. April 23, 1964.

Forever in our hearts.

~ Your loving children; John, Richard, Vena (all dec), Joyce, Lois and Don.

CUNNEEN, Joan.

Miss you Joan.

No one to share my thoughts with. ~ Georgie.

SPORT

Honouring the Journey

Mason Park Funerals

TIMBS, David.

April 15, 2020

So sadly missed. ~ Jenette.

P. 03 5721 5060 W. masonpark.com.au The

classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Phone: 03 5723 0101

Multi-format bowls competition contested

LAST Saturday saw the Fred Ivone Medley tournament played at the Myrtleford Bowls Club in glorious weather and on very fast running greens in immaculate condition.

The Fred Ivone Medley is kindly sponsored by Bernard and Dan Ivone and their families to honour their father Fred.

This event has become an annual event and, with 40 players taking part in the latest running of the tournament, it rates as one of the most prestigious team events on the bowls club calendar each season with players striving to have their names on the honour board.

The format means players get the chance to participate in fours, triples, pairs and

also play singles, with the winners accumulating the most points overall.

The team of Greg Robbins, Helen Murtagh, Kevin Bray, and Gareth Williams took out top honours, closely followed by the squad of Janine Powell, Denis Piazza, Mat Dunell, and Kevin Wood.

The winning team’s score was eight of a possible 10 points on the day, with seven points going to both the second and thirds teams in a highly competitive competition played in great spirit.

The Myrtleford Bowls Club wishes to thank the Ivone family and Nutrien Ag Solutions Ivone Agencies for their wonderful support.

RUNNERS UP: (from left) Janine Powell, Denis Piazza, Mat Dunell, and Kevin Wood, came second in the tournament.

WINNERS: (from left) Greg Robbins, Helen Murtagh, Kevin Bray, and Gareth Williams won the Fred Ivone Medley on Saturday.

Barefoot bowls finale and fundraiser

By COL BYRNE

AFTER a very competitive seven rounds and two washouts the winners of the Myrtleford barefoot bowls were revealed last month.

The ‘top three’ were U3Again; made up of Craig Power, Scott Cooper and David Frecklington with six wins.

Cobbers (Matt Dunell, Jon Lake and Jon Dunell) had five wins, one draw, ahead of Ramblers (Gary Gunson, Rob Kerr and James Menz) on percentage, five wins and one draw.

Two more teams also had five wins.

For the second year the last night was a CFA children’s hospital Good Friday fundraiser.

Unfortunately, rain prevented use of the greens, but virtual bowls was played and a large raffle was conducted.

A big thankyou to all the business donors of prizes for the raffle and those bowlers who attended and made for a successful night.

A total of $685 was raised.

Well done.

Benalla 1.0 1.0 1.1 1.1.7

BEST: BENALLA: Josh Mathieson, Mitchell Cooney, Josh Hart, Logan Hyland, Sam Gates, Ryder Levy. IMPERIALS: Kai McPhan, Archer Direen, Nicholas Kjar, Will Prebble, Marshall Semmens. GOALS: BENALLA: Lucas Ham 1. IMPERIALS: Will Prebble 3, Harry Allen 2, Marshall Semmens 2, Seth Ismale 1, Nicholas Kjar 1, Kai McPhan 1, Max Startin 1.

MANSFIELD: Cruz Purday, James Benton, Edwin Morphett, Astin Browning, Samuel Kain, Hayden Desmond. TIGERS: Xavier Dodgshun, Harvey Dodgshun, Lucas Webb, Charlie York, Mac Correll, Jake Wall. GOALS: MANSFIELD: James Benton 2, Astin Browning 2, Hayden Desmond 2, Noah Pigdon 1, Judd Turner 1. TIGERS: Lucas Webb 4, Mac Correll 2, Harvey Dodgshun 1, Jake Wall 1.

BEST: JUNIOR MAGPIES: John Wohlers, Mossy Alker-Jones, Riley Burrows, Charlie Suffield, Zach Bott, Charlie Miller. COLLEGE: Christian Ashworth, Fraser Burgan, Cashen Monk, Don Young, Harvey Lyster, Nevada Monk. GOALS: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Joel Comensoli 4, Jackson Hewitt 4, Cooper Allan 3, Riley Burrows 3, Corey Petersen 3, William Petersen 2, Charlie Briggs 1, Charlie Miller 1, Leo Sammon 1, John Wohlers 1.

Myrtleford 2.6 6.7 10.9 10.9.69

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Taj Cooper, Oscar Benson, Charlie Piazza, Jethro Novak, Archie Mapson, Sam Muraca BRIGHT: Aiden Toy, Hamish Johnston, Fraser Stephens, Alan Grasser, Tyson Brierty, Jack Thomson. GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Taj Cooper 2, Liam McManus 2, Benjamin McMasters 2, Bailey Robb 2, Ryder Harris 1, Sam Muraca 1. BRIGHT: Tyson Brierty 4, Lee Robinson 2, Bailey Brady 1, Hamish Johnston 1, Cade McGregor 1.

Kangaroos 6.12.48

Centrals 4.11.35

BEST: KANGAROOS: Harvey Cook, Mario Sacco, Corey MARJANOVIC, Edward Clayton, Will Graham, Kade Jackson. CENTRALS: No best players have been selected. GOALS: KANGAROOS: Harvey Cook 1, Ryley Downing 1, Will Graham 1, Billy Hiskins 1, Tyler Hunter 1, Corey Marjanovic 1. CENTRALS: No goal scorers have been selected.

Private player, Harry Bowen, Hailey Ziebell. IMPERIALS: Isaac Robinson, Kade Ely, Samuel K Savage, Wally Startin, Lenny Campbell, Oskar McGahan. GOALS: BENALLA RED: Thomas Mount 3, Xavier De Fazio 1, Cash Nolen 1, Harrison Skelton 1. IMPERIALS: Jack Ambrose 1, Zeke Hogan 1.

BEST: KANGAROOS: Oscar Edwards, Henry Ackerly, Charlie Kelly, Urban Holt, George Everard, Maddox Coleman. CENTRALS: Archie Knobel, Beau Johns, Liam Bennett, Milla Wallace, Jesse Walkerden, Nicholas Jones. GOALS: KANGAROOS and CENTRALS: no goal scorers added. Junior Magpies 2.4.16

College 18.13.121

BEST: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Jimi Pell, Will James, Jacob Nesbitt, Jack Vincent, Alexander Scholes. GOALS: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Jimi Pell 1, Alexander Scholes 1.COLLEGE: No players allocated to line-up.

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Max McMahon, Sam Lupo, Hudson Durling, Jacob McAuliffe, Matthew Morgan, Taylor McPherson. BRIGHT: Oscar Lewis, Harry West, Cash Garratt, Darcy Andersen, Joe Brewster, Kody Watkins. GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Hudson Durling 2, Sam Lupo 2, Lucas McKeone 1, Blake Parolin 1. BRIGHT: Darcy Andersen 3, Brock Buckland 3, Alex Tanaskovic 3, Cash Garratt 2, Harris Bruneau 1, Kaegan Hall-Bidois 1.

Mansfield Blue 3.1

BEST: MANSFIELD BLUE: Archie Dunn, Taj Kynnersley, Jay Kynnersley, Lenny Gardner, Reeve Purday, Gus Robinson. MANSFIELD YELLOW: Zac Hotton, Cooper Martin, Jack Clydesdale, Macc Watson, Felix Smith, Lachlan Roberts. GOALS: MANSFIELD BLUE: Bodhi Killeen 3, Taj Kynnersley 2, Lenny Gardner 1, Zander Haslau 1, Jay Kynnersley 1, Gus Robinson 1, Billy Turner 1. MANSFIELD YELLOW: Zac Hotton 1, Oscar Pigdon 1, Mitch Rossiter 1, Mitch Storer 1.

BEST: TIGERS: Ollie Fisher, Logan Benton, Harvey Togolo-Hill, Vaughn

Dylan Dickson,

BEST: BENALLA RED: Thomas Snell, Jack Hart, Samuel Mount, Robin Arnold, Hudson Pickering, Emmanuel Bourke. IMPERIALS: Harry Gumley, Judd Campbell, Harrison O’Brien, Jack Ginnivan, Finn Kennedy, Thomas Sealey. GOALS: BENALLA RED: Jack Hart 1. IMPERIALS: Harry Gumley 3, Harrison O’Brien 3, Judd Campbell 1, Jaxon Hayward 1, Reece Pearson 1. Kangaroos

BEST: KANGAROOS: Bodi Jackson, Harry Edwards, Jayden Foster, Liam Solimo, Logan Vincent, George McCurdy. CENTRALS: Jax Oats, Franklin Fletcher, Harvey Muraca, Jenson Morris, Jake Vincent, Brax Mawson. GOALS: KANGAROOS: Bodi Jackson 3, Liam Solimo 3, George McCurdy 1, Max Tucker 1. CENTRALS: Jax Oats 1.

BEST: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Mason Jones, Ollie Parr, Riley Sessions, Eli Davies, Liam Bott. COLLEGE: Jax Borschmann, Ryan Allan,

MYRTLEFORD: Xavier

3, Judd Carroll 2, Milla Corcoran 2, Claye Corcoran 1, Nash Durling 1, Billy McMahon 1, Koby Prott 1, Willow Szaraszek 1. BRIGHT: James Caloutas 1.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

Back-to-back wins for Savoy women

MYRTLEFORD’S division one women’s side backed up their 2-0 win over Albury United last weekend with a compelling 3-0 triumph over Twin City Wanderers on Sunday.

Up against a more experienced Wanderers outfit, speed was Savoy’s best weapon, as the midfield brought the ball quickly along the wing and into scoring range.

With chances comes goals, and Myrtleford soon found themselves leading 2-0 after the first half of play.

Wanderers came out firing after the break, truly testing Myrtleford’s defensive structure, but a goal on the rebound secured the 3-0 result for Savoy, with Gabby Paglia, Anabel Iaria and Lily Notrianni all find-

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

ing the back of the net.

Co-coach Tom Scott said the momentum and consistency the side had found over the past few weeks was impressive.

“To get back-to-back wins is certainly a good feeling,” he said.

“We played to our strengths, Twin City are a pretty physical team, so we knew they were going to come out pretty hard and try to wear us down quickly, knowing we had a younger side.

“We just took our chances when we could, we tried to beat them down the wings

when able and it worked in our favour.

“They’ve really picked up their intensity on and off the ball, their ability to put pressure into zones and really

work as a unit, rather than individually pressing is really impressive.” Scott said the side was gelling together well, and they were no where near the peak

of their ability as a side.

“They’re all growing with each other – the older girls are definitely teaching the younger ones, and the younger ones are showing the older girls a thing or two as well,” he said.

“It’s a really good environment we have at the moment.

“We probably took our foot off the gas at times, we knew we had to rest in moments because we wanted to make sure we weren’t exposed on the bench with too many injuries and things like that.”

Savoy will look to continue their winning ways this weekend against Wodonga Heart, a match-up not seen since the division two women’s grand final last season, which Heart won 3-2.

“We now look to Wodonga

Heart who are sitting equal with us on the ladder, and last year they beat us in the division two grand final, so it’s definitely a rivalry we want to be on the top of, that’s something we’ll look forward to this week,” Scott said.

“Wodonga Heart have got a really good, strong forward side, so if we’re able to capitalise on the ball movement into the middle and stop them before they’re able to press, it then relieves our backline a little bit, we can be a little bit more creative in our offense and transitional play.

“I think our defence will hold up pretty well, we’ve got a really good sync at the moment, the girls are playing their positions and know where each other are.”

Myrtleford

Savoy D1 Men head into bye 4-0, still alive in FA Cup

■ From back page “We hit the bar a couple of times early in the second half, so I knew the goals would come, but it was about keeping them out.”

Matt Richardson walked away with a bag of four goals to his name, while Will Keenan (two) and Lewis Holloway (one) also found their way past the goalie.

The division one men will take this Sunday off with the scheduled bye, sitting undefeated on top of the table and still kicking goals in the midweek FA Cup.

Vescio said the first month of the season was exemplary.

“Ever since day one of preseason we put emphasis on the first four or five before we even got the draw, and when we got the draw and realised we’d be playing some big teams early on, to be where we are now is really pleasing,” he said.

“The pressure our twos are putting on our ones at the moment is great, they had a come from behind win on Sunday, so to have our twos at 3-1 and our ones at 4-0, and still alive in the Cup with a big semifinal against Cobram in a couple of weeks, it’s really good.”

STRIKER: Matt Richardson kicked four goals in Savoy’s 7-2 thrashing of Twin City Wanderers on Sunday.

PHOTOS: Janet Watt

CHALLENGE: Josh Zito slides in against Jake Miles.

DENIED: Twin City’s goalie Talisan Wilson denies Nathan Mirt an easy shot on goal.

ATTACKING: Will Keenan drives the ball down the field.

BACK-TO-BACK: Myrtleford’s division one women’s side recorded their second straight win on the weekend.

PHOTO: Janet Watt

WINNERS AND LOSERS

WODONGA RAIDERS 0.2 5.3 6.8 9.10.64

WANGARATTA ROVERS 3.4 6.7 13.8 14.14.98

GOALS: WODONGA RAIDERS: Tom Bracher 3, Nick Bracher 2, Archer Scammell 1, Lochlainn

Simpson 1, Harry Sweetman 1, Zac Whitsed 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Alexander Marklew

5, Stuart Booth 3, Samuel Murray 3, Samuel Cattapan 1, Brodie Filo 1, Lockey McCartney 1.

BEST: WODONGA RAIDERS: Cameron Ellis-Yolmen, Sam Darley, Harvey Cribbes, Bradley St

John, Tom Bracher, Connor Taylor. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Tom Boyd, Stuart Booth, Lochie O’Brien, Alexander Marklew, Lockey McCartney, Brodie Filo.

GOALS: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: Nathan Dunstan 2, Joe Hansen 2, Judd Kuschert 2.

NETBALL SCORES THIRDS RESULTS

A GRADE Myrtleford 55 def Yarrawonga 49

Corowa-R’glen 47 def North Albury 38

Albury 35 def Lavington 30

Wod. Raiders 62 def Wang Rovers 51

Wangaratta 61 def Wodonga 42

B GRADE: Myrtleford 49 def Yarrawonga 42; Corowa-R’glen 35 def by North Albury 54; Albury 49 def Lavington 32; Wod. Raiders 43 drew with Wang Rovers 49; Wangaratta 45 def by Wodonga 47. C GRADE: Myrtleford 26 def by Yarrawonga 44; Corowa-R’glen 37 def by North Albury 51; Albury 52 def Lavington 20; Wod. Raiders 26 def Wang Rovers 24; Wangaratta 37 def Wodonga 33. UNDER 17s: Myrtleford 62 def Yarrawonga 35; CorowaR’glen 32 def by North Albury 46; Albury 27 def Lavington 24; Wod. Raiders 40 def by Wang Rovers 42; Wangaratta 43 def by Wodonga 63. UNDER 15s: Myrtleford 47 def Yarrawonga 17; Corowa-R’glen 45 def by North Albury 49; Albury 38 def Lavington 30; Wod. Raiders 47 def Wang Rovers 40; Wangaratta 34 def by Wodonga 55.

YARRAWONGA vs WANGARATTA

LAVINGTON vs MYRTLEFORD

WODONGA vs COROWA RUTHERGLEN

NORTH ALBURY vs WODONGA RAIDERS WANG ROVERS vs ALBURY

Raiders 8.6.54 def by Wang Rovers 11.9.75

BEST: WODONGA RAIDERS: William Robertson, Declan Ramage, Adam Brown, Fraser Jensen,

McFarland,

Coleman,

ROVERS: Harvey

Noah Scholte. GOALS: WODONGA RAIDERS: Adam Brown 3, Declan Ramage 3, Ashton Everett 1, Finn Gray 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: Oscar Clelland 3, Cody

Johnson 2, Preston Coleman 1, Samuel Comensoli 1, Ryley Ely 1, Jed Marek 1, Jez Rigoni 1, Eden White 1. Wangaratta 10.14.74 def Wodonga 0.2.2

BEST: WANGARATTA: Hugh Canning, Oscar Roberts, William Petersen, Josh Styles, Charlie Haring, Curtis Hines. WODONGA: Lachlan Nugent, Isaac O’Neill, Mason Prenter, Riley Mimmo, Sam Wapling, Riley Chant. GOALS: WANGARATTA: Charlie Eames 3, Max Bihun 2, John Blake 1, Owain Boyle 1, Hugh Canning 1, Chad Donald 1, William Petersen 1.

Myrtleford 6.6.42 def by Yarrawonga 9.9.63

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Oliver Neil, Noah Hall, Lachlan Barbour, Jack Hazeldine, Harry Stripeikis, Nicholas Hall. YARRAWONGA: Zac Forge, Patrick Waugh, Charlie Lappin, tyrone baxter, Darby Mullins, Samuel Bigger. GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Lachlan Barbour 2, Jack Hazeldine 2, Nikolai Nannipieri 1, Jock Pascoe 1. YARRAWONGA: Warrick Campbell 3, Jack Eales 1, Zac Forge 1, Blake Keenes 1, William Scott 1, Ryder Stevens 1, Griffin Surrey 1.

Corowa R’glen 9.5.59 def Nth Albury 7.13.55

Albury 5.4.34 def by Lavington 8.8.56

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

A GRADE: Benalla 38 def Bright 37

Goorambat 25 def by King Valley Moyhu 31 def by Bonnie Doon 57

Tarrawingee 30 def by Greta 39

Whorouly 44 def North Wangaratta 27

B GRADE: Benalla 30 def by Bright 59; Goorambat 33 def King Valley 29; Moyhu 25 def by Bonnie Doon 58; Tarrawingee 34 def by Greta 50; Whorouly 51 def North Wangaratta 29

B RESERVE: Goorambat 14 def by King Valley 30; Moyhu 30 def by Bonnie Doon 52; Tarrawingee 38 def by Greta 44; Whorouly 61 def North Wangaratta 14

C GRADE: Benalla 9 def by Bright 57; Goorambat 51 def King Valley 38; Moyhu 38 def by Bonnie Doon 45; Tarrawingee 31 def by Greta 64; Whorouly 34 def North Wangaratta 25

UNDER 15s: Benalla 19 def Bright 18; Goorambat vs King Valley; Moyhu 25 def by Bonnie Doon 29; Tarrawingee 3 def by Greta 21; Whorouly 18 def by North Wangaratta 31

NORTH ALBURY: Joshua Minogue 5, Cayden Winter 4, Nathan Dennis 3, Ben Fulford 3, Cody Gardiner 2, Tim Broomhead 1, Archer Gardiner 1, Foster Gardiner 1, Jack Penny 1.

BEST: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: Joe Hansen, Tom Forrest, Judd Kuschert, Jedd Longmire, Jordan Eyers, Stephen Owen. NORTH ALBURY: Archer Gardiner, Cayden Winter, Riley Smith, Fletcher Ramage, Foster Gardiner, Zac Hanrahan.

GOALS: WANGARATTA: Fraser Holland-Dean 4, Jackson Clarke 2, Michael Newton 2, Liam Mcveigh 1, Callum Moore 1, Patrick Naish 1, Daniel Sharrock 1, Jessie Smith 1. WODONGA: Noah Spiteri 5, Ethan Redcliffe 4, Jack C O’Sullivan 2, Kyle Winter-Irving 2, Riley Gill 1, Joshua Mathey 1, Oscar Willding 1. BEST: WANGARATTA: Alex Federico, Daine Porter, Daniel Sharrock, Fraser Holland-Dean, Aidan Tilley, Chris Knowles. WODONGA: Jack C O’Sullivan, Noah Spiteri, Noah Bradshaw, Ethan Redcliffe, Joshua Mathey, Connor Brodie.

GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Simon Curtis 3, Lachlan Murphy-Dale 2, Levi Young 2, Addison Bedendo 1, Ryley Bouker 1. YARRAWONGA: Leigh Williams 7, Harrison Wheeler 2, Lochie Forge 1, Bailey Frauenfelder 1, Daniel Howe 1, Nicholas Irvine 1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Simon Curtis, Tom Sparks, Matthew Munro, Lachlan Murphy-Dale, Ashton McPherson, Jaxon East. YARRAWONGA: Leigh Williams, Ryan Bruce, Ned Pendergast, Harrison Wheeler, William Wheeler, Cameron Wilson.

GOALS: ALBURY: Jackson Kelly 2, Jeff Garlett 1, Isaac Muller 1. LAVINGTON: Ryder Corrigan 2, Jack Driscoll 1, Shaun Driscoll 1, Samuel Hargreave 1, Tom Hargreave 1, Jake O’Brien 1, Tim Oosterhoff 1, Charlie Sanson 1. BEST: ALBURY: Hamish Gilmore, Fletcher Carroll, Michael Duncan, Tom O’Brien, Lachlan Tiziani. LAVINGTON: Tim Hanna, Adam Butler, Nick Paton, Jesse Hart, Tom Hargreave, William Glanvill.

GOALS: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Dylan Sinclair 1. BRIGHT: Cooper Thomason 10, Declan

Bren 8, Jack Dalbosco 2, Riley Bacon 1, Patrick Bren 1, Samuel Dalbosco 1, Kieren Jamieson 1, Nick Lebish 1. BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Sam Cox, Chelton Orchard, Jordan Smith, Dwaine Lancaster, David Button, David Whitechurch. BRIGHT: Michael Elliott, Cooper Thomason, Declan Bren, Thomas Gray, Samuel Dalbosco, Dale Breeding.

GOORAMBAT

KING VALLEY

GOALS: GOORAMBAT: Duane Haebich 6, Travers Nolan 3, Dylan Beavis 2, Kobe Black 2, Jamie Dunne 2, Rhys Goodley 2, Lachlan Boyle 1, Darcy Edgar 1, Charles Hunter 1, Sully

Malay 1. KING VALLEY: Joshua Cook 2, Jack Davies 1, Joshua Toy 1. BEST: GOORAMBAT: Duane Haebich, Samuel Gladstone, Lachlan Boyle, Darcy Edgar, Joel Bate, Rhys Goodley. KING VALLEY: Dylan Browne, Joshua Toy, Sam Evans, Thomas Stewart, Beau Wheeler, Joshua Cook.

GOALS: BONNIE DOON: Luke Murray 7, James Law 5, Will Foster 3, Conor Heaslip 3, Joel Sanford 2, Al Bennett 1, Jayjay Curtin 1. BEST: MOYHU: Dylan Carmody, Jett Roberts, David McDonald, Ethan Rooney, Nick Stewart. BONNIE DOON: Jayjay Curtin, Matthew Hedin, Luke Murray, Will Foster, Jack Goonan, Joel Sanford.

GOALS: TARRAWINGEE: Dylan Adams 1, Austin Amery 1. GRETA: Frazer Judd 15, Cody Crawford 6, Tyler Arrowsmith 5, Lachie Kennett 4, Brodie Pearson 3, Bradley Whinray 3, Joshua Bell 2, Brenton Newbold 2, Dale Walker 1, Trent Whitecross 1. BEST: TARRAWINGEE: Will Creed, Jarrod Everitt, Dylan Adams, Austin Amery. GRETA: Tyler Arrowsmith, Frazer Judd, Jack Kelly, Cody Crawford, Bradley Whinray.

WHOROULY

NTH WANGARATTA

GOALS: WHOROULY: Andrew Newton 2, Glenn White 2, Matthew Harris 1, Lachlan Moore 1, Joshua Newton 1. NORTH WANGARATTA: Damien Bradley 3, Jhye Devine 3, Tyler Nanson 3, Jack Brown 2, Daniel Buchan 1, Matthew Curtis 1, Josh Nanson 1, Tyler Schulze 1. BEST:

Koopman, Blair Eddy, Douglas Arnold, Cory Pearn, Brock McCabe. Albury ....................10.10.70

Lavington ..................7.3.45

BEST: ALBURY: Zachariah Packer, Shaun Turvey, Jackson Payne, Ty Quade, Harry Cameron, Jonathan Male.

LAVINGTON: Oscar Lyons, Jordan Weidemann, Will

Liersch, Peter Flood, Josh Roscarel, Hunter Galvin.

Wangaratta................9.9.63

Wodonga ...................3.4.22

BEST: WANGARATTA: Will

O’keefe, Charlie Ross, Lachlan Bray, Nathan Sampson, Xavier Laverty, Patrick Wright.

WODONGA: Ashton Brookes, Rhys Venturoni, Kade Brown, Harry Baxter, Hugh Venturoni, William Teunon.

ROUND 4 -APRIL20

Strong start gives Saints the edge over Pigeons

By NATHAN DE VRIES

MYRTLEFORD’S A grade squad are on the board, following a six-goal win over Yarrawonga Pigeons at McNamara Reserve on Saturday.

The Saints turned in their strongest start of the season to hand the Pigeons their first loss 55-49.

After getting out of the blocks slowly in recent matches, the Saints exploded from the first whistle, taking a 17-12 lead after the first 15 minutes.

Incredible shooting accuracy and desperate defensive turnovers kept the Pigeons a healthy distance behind, with Myrtleford ahead by six at half time.

Goals flowed in the third term, with neither team able to wrest control of the match, as Yarrawonga made positional changes and Myrtleford adapted well to them.

While Yarrawonga were able to win the final quarter by a goal, the damage had been done, with the Saints taking the points for the first time in 2024.

Senior coach Olivia La Spina said the strong start from her squad made all the difference.

“We had a really big focus on starting well, because we felt like in our past two games we’d started quite poorly and it had cost us in the end,” she said.

“As a team, that was our focus, and we nailed it from the first centre pass.

“You can never discount Yarrawonga, you know they’re always going to fight back, but we just had four really great quarters of netball, it was awesome.

“We definitely knew they were going to keep coming at us, and they made a few changes throughout the game, which we had to keep adjusting to, but we were able to hold

on which was really good.”

The shooting duo of Daisy O’Kane (42 goals at 80.77 per cent) and Emma Sharp (13 goals at 86.67 per cent) proved the difference, standing out among a brilliant whole-team performance on the court.

“You can’t ask much more from your shooters when they’re shooting at about 80 per cent and above,” La Spina said.

“It was Emma Sharp’s first game in A grade for a few years and she was a standout, she sup-

ported Daisy so well in that role.

“It allowed Daisy to be that tall timber under the post and Em worked hard to get the ball to her.

“I think it was Evie Hughes’ best game I’ve seen her play.

“It was a tough week to do votes - I could’ve thrown the vote card up in the air because everyone played their role, it was so good.”

The netballers contributed to four of the club’s five wins to take the #BeKindToYourMind Shield for the first time, with momentum sky high on the court heading into this weekend’s clash with Lavington.

“The day started really well with both of our juniors winning, and when the reserves got a win we thought we could actually do it,” La Spina said.

“It was a really great day for the club, I think it just brings to light some really important issues in our society.

“Like Yarrawonga, they’ve (Lavington) just been so strong for so many years, so we’ll keep focussing on that first quarter effort because we know if we can get that down pat, we put ourselves in good stead to win the game.

“We’re looking forward to the challenge, it’s always nice playing Lavington.”

Saints fall to premier Pigeons

By NATHAN DE VRIES

MYRTLEFORD’S senior footballers were dealt their third loss this season at the hands of reigning premiers Yarrawonga, downed 9.11 (65) to 13.12 (90) at McNamara Reserve on Saturday.

After a congested first term, the Saints trailed by three goals at the half, before a dominant third term brought the deficit to just two goals.

However, during the first eight minutes of the final term, Yarrawonga’s playmakers fired, with star forward Leigh Williams putting the game beyond the Saints, finishing with seven goals.

Coach Craig Millar said the early minutes of the fourth quarter spelled doom for Myrtleford.

“I thought we really had momentum and some good players were starting to find some form and find the footy and were looking dangerous, but the unfortunate reality for us was their best players got going in the first eight minutes of the last quarter,” he said.

“Leigh Williams got his hands on the ball and kicked a few goals, and their midfielders really got going at stoppages in the middle, and we found it really hard to wrestle it back our way.

“Zac Pethybridge had the tough job on arguably the best forward in the competition, and Ryley Forrest spent a little bit of time on him too.

“Zac battled really hard but the reality was he (Williams) got

some good ball supply and at times there wasn’t much anyone could do to stop Leigh’s influence on the game based on the supply he got from the midfield.”

first couple of weeks in the reserves, we gave him some clear instructions of how we wanted him to play certain roles this year, and he got to work on that.

“He was afforded an opportunity on the weekend, he forced his way back into team – he led really well, took a couple of marks and kicked a couple of goals as a result of that, so he was great for us in his first game for the season.”

While the seniors and thirds (6.6.42-9.9.63) fell short of victory, the reserves recorded a historic 7.12 (54) to 3.11 (29) win over the Pigeons.

The result in the twos, combined with stellar performances on the netball court, delivered the Saints the #BeKindToYourMind Shield, which is contested annually between Yarrawonga and Myrtleford at McNamara Reserve.

“I think someone said that’s the first time the reserves have beaten Yarrawonga for close on 20 years, so that on itself was fantastic,” Millar said.

“Our netballers were outstanding, winning four of the five games which gave us the opportunity to get our name on the trophy.

BUMPER CROWD: A crop of 43 eager golfers turned out for the biannual Myrtleford/Bright challenge.

Golfing rivalry heats up

LAST Wednesday, the biannual Myrtleford/Bright challenge match was held in perfect golfing conditions, with 43 participants vying for the coveted honour in an event instigated many years ago by the late Rob Wickes.

Myrtleford made the most of their home ground advantage to be the overall winners with an average of 29.85 to 28.35.

Saturday, April 13

Alpine Dairy Stableford AMCR 71

A grade winner: Jonathan Mercuri (14) 41 pts. A grade runner up: Paul Evans (12) 35 pts. B grade winner: Jye Cunneen (15) 37 pts c/b. B grade runner up: Ben Homes (15) 37 pts.

Ball winners: A Roseby 36, J Harrington 35, J Martin 35, S Hancock 35, J Costello 34, C Piazza 34, J Galvan 34.

Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Craig Shewell, 4th 2nd shot: Craig Shewell, 8th: Gerard Black, 14th: John Costello, 16th: Ben Holmes.

Matthews Cleaning award: Paul Cowman 19 pts.

Raffle winner: Jonathan Mercuri.

Thursday, April 11

Myrtleford Alpine Dairy - StrokeAWCR 74

A grade winner: Carolyn Prowse (28) 33 pts. A grade runner up: Heather Street (40) 30 pts.

Ball winners: Fran Jackson (32) 24 pts.

Foodworks NTPs - 8th: Carolyn Prowse, 14th: Faye McLees.

Nine hole winner: Betty Newton (31) 15 pts. Nine hole runner up: Penny Dawkins (53) 14 pts.

Wednesday, April 10

Alpine Dairy Stableford AMCR 71 AWCR 74

Myrtleford Vs Bright

A grade winner: Stuart Carlisle (17) 34 pts. A grade runner up: Spider Hancock (15) 33pts. B grade winner: Brian Caldwell (18) 39pts. B grade runner up: Andy Loftus (19) 37 pts c/b.

Ladies’ winner: Kerry Newton (21) 35pts. Ladies’ runner up: Jan Roseby (15) 34pts.

Ball winners: Graham Burrows 37c/b, Glenn O’Connell 37, John Costello 34 c/b, Andrew Roseby 33, Michael Dunne 32, Carolyn Prowse 32, Alan Rockliff 31 c/b, Julie Englert 29 c/b.

Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Heather

Thompson, 4th 2nd shot: Jan Roseby and Robert Toal, 8th: Jan Roseby and Graham Burrow, 14: Liz Orton and Kevin Reed, 16th: Marnie Broz and Andy Loftus.

Myrtleford Vs Bright - Myrtleford won 34.1 to Bright 24.1.

Tuesday, April 9

Myrtleford Alpine Dairy - Par - AWCR 74

A grade winner: Carolyn Prowse (29) -2. A grade runner up: Beth Roseby (36) -3.

“Simon Curtis was dangerous for us, he played a number of roles for us on the weekend, and Lachie Murphy-Dale is starting to get some form,” he said.

“Levi Young, I was really pleased for Levi – he’s had the

Despite the result, Millar said the side was definitely coming together, with players turning in better performances every week.

“We’re really proud to say we were able to take that trophy away from 12 months for Yarrawonga who’ve had it for the first couple of years.”

The Saints head across to the Lavington Sports Ground this weekend to take on the Panthers.

Ball winners: Marnie Broz -3, Faye McLees -4.

Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Marg Curtis, 2nd 4th shot: Angela O’Shaughnessy, 8th: Marg Curtis, 14th: Angela O’Shaughnessy. Nine hole winner: Marg Curtis (17) 21pts. Nine hole runner up: Jennifer Leita (53) 13pts.

DON’T ARGUE: Ryley Bouker tries to fend off his Yarrawonga opponent.

EAGLE EYE: Daisy O’Kane shot at above 80 per cent accuracy in the Saints’ win over Yarrawonga. PHOTOS: Janet Watt

‘Shell-shocked’ Lions seeking improvements

By NATHAN DE VRIES

WHOROULY’S first home game of the season made for grim viewing for the Lions’ supporters, with the senior squad downed 7.5 (47) to North Wangaratta’s 15.12 (102).

The Hawks came out firing early, booting the first three goals of the match unanswered, before stretching the lead to seven goals by the half-time siren.

While the Lions did come out in the third quarter and keep North Wangaratta goalless while booting three of their own, the damage was done, with the Hawks kicking another six in the final term to walk away 55-point winners.

Coach Lachy Moore said one solid quarter of footy was not enough to win games.

“It was a pretty disappointing result, to be honest, the boys came out pretty slow out of the gate, and they jumped us - I’ve used the word ‘shell-shocked’ a little bit,” he said.

“North Wangaratta had a point to prove, they came out really strong and they didn’t miss their opportunities, kicking the first three straight.

“We were a bit in no-man’s land for the first half, we fought back really well in the third quarter, we kept them goalless, but a game isn’t won in one quarter.

“I have a huge amount of re-

spect for Steve (North Wangaratta senior coach Steve Manning) and the North Wang boys, they just were the better team on the day, you can’t argue that.”

and focus in on being clean below our knees, being clean in disposals, that sort of thing,” he said.

“Being my first loss as coach, it allows me to grow personally in the face of adversity, and continue to try and think and try and win the game from no matter how far down we are.

“We did try and do that, but it was not to be.”

Whorouly heads up the mountain this weekend to take on Bright in the closest fixture the two clubs have to a derby.

The Mountain Men are undefeated in both grades, but Moore is confident his side will push last season’s runners up.

“It’s a great challenge, Bright are leading the charge this year, them and Greta,” he said.

“Like I said to the boys, it’s one thing going out there and potentially beating a struggling club, but we want to go out there and prove ourselves, and there’s no better way to do it than test ourselves against Bright.

Spirits remain high in Bombers as players set to return

By SHANE DOUTHIE

IT was another challenging Saturday for Dederang-Mount Beauty footballers at the weekend when they came up against a rampaging Barnawartha, suffering a 152 point loss, 28.21 to 6.1.

But despite the scoreline, co-coach Tom McGhee was full of praise for his players.

“The result wasn’t ideal but there were still some improvements on last week,” McGhee said.

“We kicked five more goals for a start and the effort around the ball was there.

“The team battled hard all day and didn’t give up which really pleasing.

“We knew at the start of the season it was going to be tough this year but that said, I don’t think the scoreboard over the last two weeks has really reflected how we are playing.”

He said the side was missing a few key players last week including two late withdrawals but several players stepped up bravely to fill the holes.

“My co-coach Jaydn (Chalmers) really cracked in all day as you expect him to and one of our recruits, Matt Paddle, spent 90 per cent of the match in the midfield and battled it out all day, he just doesn’t give up,” McGhee said.

Moore said more needed to be done at training to tidy up weaker areas of the game exposed on Saturday.

“I’m not going to throw too many clichés out there, but we do need to get back to the grind, back to Tuesday and Thursday night,

The Lions’ midfield fought hard all day, with Matt Vescio, Will Allen and Andrew Newton among the best on ground for the home side, while skipper Glenn White finished with two goals to his name.

“They might’ve had a few blowout wins against us last year, but it’s about doing our best to avoid that, and try to play some footy on our terms if possible.”

The reserves had a closer match, coming within two goals of the Hawks in their first match of the year, defeated 6.9 (45) to 8.8 (56).

Lions finally get to roar on new home courts

By NATHAN DE VRIES

WHOROULY’S A grade squad christened their new netball courts in fine fashion on Saturday, defeating North Wangaratta in a physical tussle 44-27.

The Hawks played a very physical, congested style of netball through the first half, which caught the Lions off guard, trailing by a goal at the half.

Positional changes and a mental reset helped the Lions pull ahead after the half, their barebones and basic style serving them well as they led by six heading into the fourth quarter.

Momentum continued to flow

Whorouly’s way, and while the shooters kept the scoreboard ticking over, the Lions’ defenders were impressive, conceding only two goals in the last quarter.

Coach Kelly Cousins said her side’s ability to adapt to the on-court pressure was great to see.

“They were quite physical, defensively they were quite man-on-man, so we couldn’t get any flow because there was a lot of body on body and a lot of contact calls,” she said.

“It really slowed down our play and our timing was out.

“I made a few positional changes in our front end, we really addressed going back to basics at half-time, really opening up space, sticking to our

sides – we just went back to Netball 101, and the girls adjusted to that.

“We really focussed on not clogging the space, holding off on our leads and that helped.

“Once they all got it in their heads what they needed to do, they put it out on the court and that helped.”

The defensive end performed well, with Ebony Allen, Sally Wood and Grace Way turning in solid efforts all game, while Sarah Primerano and Tayla Allen were dialled in under the ring.

Cousins said the new courts, which were officially opened before the A grade match, were incredible to play on.

“It was good to finally get out on

those courts, North Wangaratta all said it was a great set up,” she said.

“Hopefully all of the away teams find our new infrastructure a lot better than what we’ve previously had when they visited us.”

The undefeated Lions head up to Bright this weekend to hopefully continue their winning form.

“I think we always match up really well against Bright, we’re very similar,” Cousins said.

“I think they’ve got a few new recruits, and it’s always tough up at Bright, so I think it’ll be a fairly even contest.

“Hopefully we’ll come away with the win, we’re just taking it week by week.”

“Hopefully, with a few more players coming in next week, he can be just as dangerous in other areas.

“The same with Sam Creamer, he’s been filling in at fullback and gives it his all and never drops his head.

“You can’t fault the endeavour and the spirit of the players.”

McGhee said he expected Rhys Cook as one of the ‘ins’ this week, along with Ben Rigoni at fullback, Trent Barton in the ruck, Michael Webb at centre half forward, and back flanker William Webb.

An influx of key players makes the outlook appear more promising this week up against the winless Wahgunyah, although McGhee said you could never take the win for granted.

“They’ll be thinking the same, that this will be their best chance of a win so far so we know we’ll have to really fight for it,” he said.

“We have a great group of boys and we will continue to really focus on enjoying our football and getting something out of each game.”

It was equally slim pickings in other football grades except for the Under 14s who scored another impressive win, taking the points 14.26 to no score.

HARD BALL: Andy Newton gets taken around the neck in the midfield.

PHOTO: Marc Bongers

Mountain Men can improve after pummelling Panthers

By NATHAN DE VRIES

DESPITE recording a 158-point demolition of Benalla All Blacks on Saturday, Bright senior coach Paul Harrison said there was still room for improvement.

The Mountain Men had piled on a 71-point lead by half-time, but had kicked 13 minor scores, mainly due to Benalla clogging the corridor and limiting Bright’s forward leads.

However, Bright cleaned up their act after the long break, kicking 15 second half goals to storm home.

Harrison said the performance from his side was uncharacteristically scrappy.

“It wasn’t our best game of football, that’s for sure, it wasn’t a great game of footy to watch,” he said.

“They put extra numbers behind the footy just to try and slow the scoring down.

“It was just a scrappy game of footy – yes, we won by a lot, but it was probably a game we get through, look back on and think we’ve got to find a way to play our game style.

“You could tell his smarts were ahead of a lot of other people on the weekend, he found a lot of the footy and used it very well.

“They won’t be going out of the team, they both played really well on the weekend.”

The Mountain Men return to Pioneer Park to host Whorouly, in a match which Harrison said is sure to be exciting and physical.

“For some reason, no matter where either team is on the ladder, it’s always a good hit-out,” he said.

Beauty Golf Club’s Men’s Club Championships.

Mount Beauty comps come down to the wire

WEDNESDAY, April 10 saw 18 holes played by the ladies of the Mount Beauty Golf Club, with Liz Harvey leading the pack with her 36 points from Lynda Barter and Jooyon KangRedmond on their 34 points apiece.

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

The front nine was played by three ladies on Saturday, April 13 with Ute Svoboda winning from Jooyon Kang-Redmond on a countback with their 14 points each.

The remaining six ladies played the 18 holes, which was won by Gill Harrowfield (37 points) over Karen Etherton (35 points).

NTP on the seventh (second shot) was Helen Whittaker.

“Our second half was a lot better than our first half, I’ll give the boys credit there – they cleaned up their skills and ball movement in the second half and we hit the scoreboard a lot better.”

Senior debutants Tom Gray and Dale Breeding were among the best on ground in their first hit-outs in the ones, while Cooper Thomason added 10 goals to

“In our first two weeks our goal kicking had been really good, we were converting a lot, whereas the boys missed a lot of opportunities in the first half.

his already considerable season tally.

“You look at Tom Gray, he’s still eligible to play under 17s and he’s stepped up and didn’t look out of his depth at all,” Harrison said.

“Every time he found the footy, he used it well, probably didn’t turn the footy over once all day and got plenty of it himself.

“It’s the same with Dale Breeding, he’s a bit older, he’s 39 years old but he’s played a lot of footy.

“Maybe once in the last couple of years it’s been a blowout, but other than that it’s been a pretty close game, so we go in expecting the exact same.

“I expect it to be a huge challenge, and we can’t take anything for granted, we’ve got to really respect Whorouly and work from that.

“I think it’ll be a nice, healthy challenge, I can see it being a very contested game of footy as it usually is.”

Bright’s reserves squad sat the weekend out with the bye, as Benalla is not fielding a team in the seconds competition.

One goal loss stings Bright netballers

By NATHAN DE VRIES

BRIGHT’S A graders came agonisingly close to their first win of the season at Benalla on Saturday, but came up short, downed 37-38 by the Panthers.

The first quarter was dominated by the visitors, as Bright pulled away to a narrow three goal lead by the first break, before Benalla managed to pull it back to be three goals up themselves by the half.

From there, it was blow for blow, with neither team able to find any significant distance on their opposition.

Defensively, Bright were resolute, but failed to convert turnovers in the defensive end to goals on the scoreboard.

In the final minutes of the match, with scores locked, Benalla managed to sink a goal,

securing the win and denying Bright a positive result.

Co-coach Kate Buckley said her side did a lot right, but weren’t on top of their game for long enough.

“It was definitely a tough ending for us,” she said.

“We started really well actually, we got a pretty good lead early, we were up by four goals in the beginning - it had kind of been our downfall from the previous weeks, we hadn’t been able to get going early.

“I think we had overworked ourselves in the first quarter, and we just weren’t able to stick with them, we weren’t able to match the pace they set in that second quarter.

“We were pretty even for the rest of the game, for the next three quarters pretty much it was back and forth, goal for

goal, until they scored the winning goal in the last 30 seconds of the game.”

Buckley said shooting accuracy was not where it needed to be to secure wins, but there was still a lot of positives.

“We played well, but similar to the last couple of weeks we just can’t really convert in that goal ring, which is frustrating as a goaler myself,” she said.

“We’ve got a couple of different shooting options we have been trying, there are maybe three of us who have been rotating through there – we haven’t found one that’s working better than the others, so it all depends on match-ups.

“We’ll definitely be practising our goals more during the week.

“Our defence is definitely consistently doing their job and playing their roles, particularly

our young gun Molly Whitty –she got best-on once again, her second week in a row, but she’s just showing us what she’s capable of, the level of skill and determination she’s got is fantastic.”

Bright hosts an undefeated Whorouly this weekend, with the match set to be a terrific hit-out.

“Whorouly are going to be tough – if we can play like what we played in the first quarter against Benalla, we shouldn’t have any issues,” Buckley said.

“I think it’ll be a close game, hopefully we can get the win, but I think it will come down to our shooters in the end.

“This weekend against Whorouly, if everybody focusses on their role, and not let things get to them and keep that positive mindset, then we do have the potential to have a very good game.”

Taf Sullivan, who seems to be becoming a nine hole specialist, won the front nine comp on Wednesday, April 10 with 21 points on a countback from Peter Partington.

Syd Thomas and Keith Archibald took home balls for their 19 pointers.

NTPs on the seventh was the club while Ivan Mock got closest on the ninth.

A group of 32 men played their postponed third round of the Club Championships on Saturday, April 13 in glorious conditions, in contrast to the previous week.

The club welcomed two visitors on the day, Russell Munro from Yackandandah and Michael Stephenson from Warragul.

Coming in with a great round was Sam Perry with a net 68 from Peter Partington (net 69), and Roger Church and Rick Biesboer on net 70.

A set of three players rounded out the ball-getters with their net 72s: Tony Campen, Michael Bartholomew and Keith Archibald.

NTPs on the seventh was Victor Selway, along with the Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post Office, the ninth was Peter Partington, and the 17th and the money on the 18th was Peter Dilley.

Fred Gerardson got closer on the 18th but was not in the money hole comp.

Saturday, April 20 will be the final round of the Men’s Club Championships.

The scoring after three rounds sees Victor Selway (232) in the lead from Rick Biesboer (231) and Sam Bellachambers (250) for A grade.

Trevor English (270) leads the B grade from Ron Gallagher (276) and Stephen Short (282), while C grade is led by Michael Bartholomew (285) from Len Tonn (299) and Bruce Plant (319).

The best three rounds count as the final scores for the championship - there is also another championship involved being the 54 Hole Handicap Championship which is being led by Rick Biesboer (214) from Trevor English (216) and Victor Selway (219).

CLEAN HANDS: Declan Bren gathers the ground ball and looks to dish it off PHOTOS: Charlotte Kilner

Round 4

Saturday 20th April

Round 4

Saturday 20th April

Bright v Whorouly v Bonnie Doon v Greta v King Valley v Moyhu v Milawa v Tarrawingee Milawa v Nth Wang v Goorambat Nth v Goorambat BYE- Benalla

Round 3

Saturday 20th April 20th

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

Thursday, Apr 18 18

St Kilda vs Western Bulldogs St Kilda vs. Western Friday, Apr 19 19

Adelaide vs Essendon vs. Saturday, Apr 20 20

Collingwood vs Port Adelaide vs. Port Adelaide Carlton vs GWS vs.

Brisbane vs Geelong Brisbane vs. West Coast vs Fremantle vs. Sunday, Apr 21 Apr 21

Sydney vs Gold Coast vs. Gold Coast

Nth Melbourne vs Hawthorn vs.

Netballers find their winning groove

By SHANE DOUTHIE

DEDERANG-Mount Beauty’s A grade netball squad hit their straps on Saturday in an impressive win over Barnawartha 45-31.

The Bombers were in control from the opening which earned them a handy 10 goal buffer at halftime, with the triumph taking the side to third on the TDNL ladder.

Coach Alex Dyde said the senior squad had learnt from the opening round loss, the lessons helping the new-look team gel well together.

“It was good just to get a win on the board,” Dyde said.

“We learnt so much from round one (10 goal loss to Tallangatta) on what went well and what didn’t and it was just a matter of ‘finessing’ some of our errors.

“It’s also close with Barnawartha, they’re still a capable and strong side, and last year it was only a few goals in it each time.

“We only had three girls from the A grade team from last year so we’re just finding our feet.”

Dyde said goal keeper Emily Jansen Van Beek was instrumental in the victory winning plenty of rebounds which the team took full advantage of by converting for goals.

“Barnawartha had plenty of opportunities with the ball but Emily and the defence kept them out,” she said.

“Paige Touhey showed tremendous grit up the other end but remained composed so we didn’t waste many chances.”

Dyde expected the team’s form to continue this week against Wahgunyah which she expects will be another tough game.

“They look to have improved on last year but we will be going in with confidence,” she said.

C grade coach Shannon Shannon Larkin played her 100th game at the weekend which was warmly celebrated by the large home crowd.

In other netball results, B grade lost 37-45, C grade drew 30-all, Under 17 went down 21-30, Under 15 lost 26-47, Under 13 fell 1-37 and Under 11 won 30-1.

RAISE THE SHIELD

MYRTLEFORD Football Netball Club claimed victory in their traditional Mental Health and Wellbeing Round against Yarrawonga Pigeons on Saturday, claiming the #BeKindToYourMind Shield for the first time. An annual fixture, the two clubs compete across all grades of football and netball for the most wins, with the Saints victorious in five eight of the eight matches across the day. Pictured are (from left) senior netball coach Olivia La Spina, co-president Luke Chapman, vice president John Pryor, co-president Luke Miotto, and senior football coach Craig Millar.

Match reports page 20.

Two from two

MYRTLEFORD’S senior men’s side have more than earned their bye weekend this Sunday, after two tremendous results sees Savoy top the league table and bound for a semi-final outing in the FA Cup.

Savoy handed Wangaratta City a 2-0 loss in Wednesday’s Cup clash, before backing it up to storm home over Twin City Wanderers 7-2.

With an altered line-up on Wednesday night, Myrtleford struck twice in the first half –courtesy of Lewis Holloway and Will Keenen - to put the Devils on the back foot, and played a defensive and cautious game after

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

the break to deny Wangaratta any easy chances on goal.

Coach Jayden Vescio said his side did their job on Wednesday, but it was far from indicative of the type of game they’re capable of.

“We made quite a lot of changes from the Sunday side, we did what we needed to do, but we probably weren’t at our best, but everyone who came in played a role,” he said.

“Scoring early took the wind out of their sails, and from then

on in we probably didn’t play beautiful football but we did what we needed to do.

“The game never really got out of first gear, probably because we didn’t allow it to defensively – we got that 2-0 buffer and sort of sat on that, and did what we needed to do.”

Heading into Sunday’s league clash with momentum and confidence, it didn’t take long for Savoy to find the back of the net.

Up against a very physical Wanderers outfit, the cards were flying early, with Twin City reduced to 10 men in the first half.

“The red card was for retaliation, it was an open hand shove to the

face, I don’t think it was much more than that - it certainly wasn’t a punch or anything like that, but it was head high contact and retaliation, so you’re going to get your marching orders for that,” Vescio said.

“The game was at 3-1 when that happened, we managed to score a couple of quick goals, then that happened and Matty Hasler was sent off

“We tried to exploit them one down, and went into half-time at 4-2, knowing that I had some fresh bodies that didn’t play on Wednesday night, we were able to open them up a lot in the second half.

■ Continued page 18

PHOTO: Jake Miles