Alpine Division 201223

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THE ALPINE

BRIGHT - POREPUNKAH - MT BEAUTY - TAWONGA - TAWONGA SOUTH Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Phone: (03) 5752 1058

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www.alpineobserver.com.au

from staff and management of The Alpine Observer Our next publication will be Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Page 2

PANTHERS PEEVED

SLIDING SAINT NICK SANTA Claus is gearing up for a busy Christmas with a visit scheduled to the Bright Carols in the Park on Saturday, December 23. After Christmas he might also cool off in the Rotary waterslide, which is open every day in the summer holidays, starting from 1-4pm on Boxing Day and 1-6pm thereafter.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

Page 17-20

ALPINE ALIVE

Getting connected HARRIETVILLE locals have heartily approved a more than $2.3 million grant to deliver fibre to the premises (FTTP) to the village, providing residents with improved internet connectivity, especially compared to their ageing ADSL wires.

Bec Caskey, committee member of the Harrietville Community Forum, said they had been pushing for connectivity upgrades to the town since 2019.

“My main push was from an emergency management

Club of Bright Proceeds from night going towards local CFA’s – money to be raised be members going thru crowd with a blanket.

BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@ nemedia.com.au

perspective,” she said.

“We are constantly told we’re a very vulnerable town in terms of bushfire and floods and yet one of the fundamental parts of that whole safety is having communications and ours is terrible.”

She said the 5g network has been useful for some in the village, but depending on their position not everyone can receive it,

Harrietville H i t ill welcomes l NBN funding f di g

while the ADSL exchange is beset by problems.

Ms Caskey said she was using the ADSL service during the COVID-19 pandemic, working remotely for a UN agency.

“I’d be the one dropping out,” she said.

“They had faster internet in Fiji.”

Harrietville resident Haydn Richards, owner of a Bright computer repair store, said Harrietville’s ADSL service also had a

limited number of ports, meaning some residents couldn’t connect, even if they wanted to.

“A lot of people would move into town and they’d try to get ADSL and they can’t get it,” he said.

“So the NBN will help out a lot.”

He said he may move from his Starlink service to the NBN once it is installed.

“If they can offer me unlimited data, I definitely would go there,” he said.

“It’d obviously be cheaper than what we’re paying with Starlink.”

Emily Peel, head of NBN Local VIC and Tas, said detailed planning will begin shortly, and timing of the project will depend on the design and construction requirements of the area.

“While you might not see people in the street in the initial stages, we are working hard behind the scenes to bring new services to Harrietville,” she said.

A spokesperson for the Department of infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts said they will be working with successful applicants in early 2024 to negotiate and execute funding agreements for delivery of these projects.

This process will also include confirmation of project delivery dates.

Independent MP for Indi Helen Haines also welcomed the NBN funding – story page 5

C AROLS IN THE PARK

Î

at Howitt Park, Bright Î DATE: Saturday 23rd December.

(6.00pm to 9.00pm)

Î BYO chairs, drinks and food.

Santa arrives 7.00pm

Phone for an appointment, call in to our DLJƌƚůĞĨŽƌĚ ŽĸĐĞ Žƌ ǀŝƐŝƚ ŽƵƌ ǁĞďƐŝƚĞ ĨŽƌ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ŽŶ ƉƌĞͲƉůĂŶŶŝŶŐ LJŽƵƌ ĨƵŶĞƌĂů ĂƌƌĂŶŐĞŵĞŶƚƐ ĂŶĚ ĨƵŶĞƌĂů ďŽŶĚƐ͘ 166 Myrtle Street, Myrtleford

03 5752 2995

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Page 32 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

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DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL

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Saville leads Power to victory over Dederang

DOUBLE DELIGHT WILL Robinson-Dunn (left) and Tom Scott have been named co-coaches of Myrtleford Savoy Soccer Club’s extremely strong reserve women’s side for the 2024 AWFA season. Training has begun, and will ramp up in the new year. Story: page 30.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

By NATHAN DE VRIES

Tigers lead the pack OVU clear on top p of A ggrade one dayy ladder at halfwayy p point of season CHRISTMAS came early for Ovens Valley United’s A grade squad, who took a great win over Beechworth Wanderers on Saturday.

The Tigers kept Beechworth to 10/167 on a slow field, before piling on 4/195 runs of their own from 40 overs.

Choosing to chase, Ovens Valley United took on the challenging task of knocking over Beechworth’s rock-solid top four.

After the league’s leading run-scorer Clancy Ellet fell uncharacteristically cheaply for just 18 runs, Cam Fendyk (56) and Kayde

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

Surrey (37) upped the run rate.

It was import Gurjot Gosal who turned the tide, trapping Fendyk LBW after holding onto a catch to remove Surrey.

The Wanderers had smashed out 144 runs before the ever-dangerous Brenton Surrey (23) joined his top three back in the sheds, exposing a very long tail-end.

Beechworth collapsed, losing 6/23 to limp towards a respectable

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total of 167, with Glenn White (3/20), Cooper Thomason (2/30), and Sam Piazza (2/34) sweeping up the tail.

OVU skipper Dylan Bursill said it was a comprehensive effort from his bowlers.

“All our bowlers bowled really well in partnerships, it was good how we closed off the innings,” he said.

“Sam Piazza and Glenn White did a fantastic job, bowling nine or 10 of the last 15 overs.

“I used James Neary a little bit differently too, he bowled through the middle overs just before and after drinks, he did a really good job.

“In the end I think he only bowled five overs, so when you’ve got someone like James only bowling five overs, that’s a credit to the rest of the bowlers.”

With a very achievable target ahead of them, openers Gosal (44) and Seamus Phillips (53) had no issue finding the boundary early, carving out a 95 first wicket partnership, before drinks.

After Gosal departed in the 18th over, Kane Fitzpatrick came to the crease to anchor the run chase, running well between the wickets for his 43* not out.

■ Continued page 31

AN unbeaten knock of 86* from skipper Daniel Saville paved the way for Mount Beauty to claim victory over Dederang on Saturday in the last outing before the break.

Saville carried his bat throughout the innings, helping the Power post 6/204 at the Mount Beauty Recreation Reserve, before knocking Dederang over for 190 in reply.

A largely chanceless innings, Saville anchored his end and turned strike effectively, while other big hitters like Paddy Dodd (29 off 26), Toby Derrick (20 off 35) and Alasdair Randell (28* from 22) went for the boundary.

Barring some tight bowling through the middle overs from Dederang, the Power cruised along to a decent enough total, with their bowlers set to defend.

“There were a few starts, a few different partnerships along the way - ideally, you’d have a big partnership, but we had a few smaller ones which was good,” Saville said.

“I promoted young Toby Derrick up the order, he’s had some good form in junior rep cricket recently and he had a good hit-out which was good.

“Paddy Dodd and Greg (McLennan) are quite aggressive at the top “We did get bogged down a bit, slowed in the middle overs courtesy of their good spin bowling which helped them peg us back, but we hit away in the end to have that psychological edge, that 200+ advantage which always keeps you in the game.

“I thought we may have needed a few more, but I guess it was enough in the end.”

■ Continued page 30

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SERVING THE ALPINE SHIRE Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Phone: (03) 5752 1058

Police urge safe driving this christmas

from staff and management of The Myrtleford Times Our next publication will be Wednesday, December 27, 2023

By LEAH ANDERSONBYRNE LOCAL police are also doing their best to prevent fatalities on the road this Christmas, according to Myrtleford leading senior constable Anthony Short.

“We’ve had a few drink and drug driving offences recently and a vehicle was impounded on Monday,” he said.

“At 10am a person was detected driving an unregistered vehicle under a disqualified license and, as a result, that vehicle was impounded and driver will face summons to attend court at a later date.

“People do need to be aware that police are actively looking for offences and the chances of getting caught are very high.”

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www.myrtlefordtimes.com.au

Page 7

STUDENTS SHINE

Page 17-20

TOY TRADE MYRTLEFORD businesses are awaiting the post-Christmas influx of holidaymakers, but some, like baby supplies store co-owner Tara Clark, are already reporting a reasonable trade from locals seeking Christmas gifts.

Story page 3 PHOTO: Brodie Everist

ALPINE ALIVE

A million dollar makeover ST MARY’S Primary School general learning area is about to receive a complete makeover following a significant $1 million Federal Government grant to refurbish the McMahon Centre.

Acting principal Leigh Corcoran said the Australian Government Capital Grant will enhance educational facilities for students in the community.

Club of Bright Proceeds from night going towards local CFA’s – money to be raised be members going thru crowd with a blanket.

Primary P i y school h l awarded d d $1m $1 ffor llearning i gh hub b refurbishment f bi h t

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

“Our vision is to refurbish this space into a modern, flexible learning environment, complete with innovative learning hubs, dedicated art and music spaces, and other associated

upgrades, yet maintaining the original character of the 1922 building structure and its rich history,” he said.

“These improvements are not just cosmetic; they are an investment in the future of our students, offering them a more engaging and versatile learning experience.

“The need for this refurbishment has been

apparent for some time.”

Mr Corcoran said it had been 12 years since the last major update to this facility.

“There is a real need to have a central learning hub in order to support and enhance the school’s philosophy of evidence based teaching and learning approaches,” he said.

“Our ongoing

commitment to providing a top-quality education means ensuring our physical environment matches the high standards of our teaching and curriculum.

“This grant is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, students, and the broader community in advocating for quality education facilities.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Australian Government and the minister of education for their support.

“We eagerly anticipate the positive impact these changes will bring and promise to keep the community updated as we embark on this exciting journey of transformation.”

C AROLS IN THE PARK

Î

at Howitt Park, Bright Î DATE: Saturday 23rd December.

(6.00pm to 9.00pm)

Î BYO chairs, drinks and food.

Santa arrives 7.00pm

Phone for an appointment, call in to our DLJƌƚůĞĨŽƌĚ ŽĸĐĞ Žƌ ǀŝƐŝƚ ŽƵƌ ǁĞďƐŝƚĞ ĨŽƌ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ŽŶ ƉƌĞͲƉůĂŶŶŝŶŐ LJŽƵƌ ĨƵŶĞƌĂů ĂƌƌĂŶŐĞŵĞŶƚƐ ĂŶĚ ĨƵŶĞƌĂů ďŽŶĚƐ͘ 166 Myrtle Street, Myrtleford

03 5752 2995

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Page 2 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

www.myrtlefordtimes.com.au

Boundary bother threatens to scuttle clubroom plans Club Cl b alleges ll g ““a b bureaucratic i nightmare”, igh ”, councilil says y they h y support pp concept p

BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@ nemedia.com.au

IT seems an offer too good to be true.

Amid the growing popularity of the Porepunkah Panthers Baseball Club and their pokey, dilapidated facilities, in 2022 a wealthy benefactor offered to give the club a sizeable donation to cover the cost of new clubrooms.

“It’s a once in three generations or four generations that someone will come along and offer you this money,” the club’s junior development coach Dean Anders said.

“It’s a unicorn.”

But since then the club says they have been mired in a bureaucratic jungle for at least three years with the Alpine Shire Council and the Department of Environment, Energy and Climate Action (DEECA), which they believe threatens to scupper the project.

The club had been largely quiet about the proposal until last week, when their frustrations bubbled over in a spray against council on Facebook, alleging they are unlikely to get planning approval for the much-needed clubrooms at the Porepunkah Recreation Reserve and blaming Alpine Shire Council, citing a broad lack of support from council and a boundary cutting across the proposed clubrooms they say is council’s responsibility to rectify.

Council have since made a public statement responding to the claims, saying they

PLANNING PALAVER: The Porepunkah Panthers Baseball Club went public with concerns their clubroom plans will be blocked, citing a broad lack of support from council and a boundary issue they say council could fix. Pictured from left are club members Mason Anders, Dean Anders, Mia Meddings and club president Paul Meddings. PHOTO: Brodie Everist support the initiative, but it hasn’t received landowner consent.

According to Mr Anders, the proposed clubrooms cover two parcels of land: the oval, owned by DEECA and managed by the Porepunkah Hall Committee, and the Martley Street Road Reserve, which is crown land managed by council.

Documents seen by the Myrtleford Times/Alpine Observer say the project has not received Public Land Manager Consent from DEECA. A letter from DEECA shows the club received landowner consent from DEECA for the project in March, with the caveat that “any required planning permit application may require additional landowner consent from the department to lodge the application”.

DEECA then made an

objection in August due to the proposal crossing the Porepunkah Recreation Reserve boundary into the land next to Martley Street, however, DEECA said they remain generally in support of the proposal.

Mr Anders said they have received consent for the project from the Porepunkah Hall Committee and alleges that DEECA’s landowner consent was enough for the permit to be issued.

According to council, DEECA’s lack of consent is the project’s primary challenge.

“While council has expressed support for the proposed building, DEECA has advised that they cannot support a building spanning two boundaries and have not provided consent for the application to proceed with the building in its current loca-

tion,” council’s director of customer and community Helen Havercroft said.

Ms Havercroft said as the responsible authority for the planning permit application, council officers must follow the Planning and Environment Act 1987 and requirements of the Alpine Planning Scheme.

“These requirements include written consent from the correct land manager, and it is council’s view that this has not been provided, despite officers trying to assist the applicant and the land manager to resolve this matter,” she said.

Mr Anders insists council, in particular the chief executive officer (CEO), could have moved the boundary.

“We can’t apply to have it moved as a club, neither can DEECA, it has to come from the shire,” he said.

“It’s been three years, [the CEO] could have moved the boundary twice by now.”

According to Ms Havercroft, in a meeting with council, DEECA and club representatives, DEECA suggested moving the building a small distance so it no longer crosses the boundary, or undertaking the process to realign the property boundary, which she said can take up to three years.

“Due to the current location of the batting nets, and the timeframe for funding, the club expressed no interest in going down either of these routes,” she said.

Club members have also criticised the seemingly interminable time for the planning application to be processed, and suggested council has shown a critical lack of support for the proposal.

“We went through all the protocols and whatnot, we just kept on getting knocked back,” club president Paul Meddings said.

According to an email sighted by this paper, council received the planning permit application on October 10 last year.

In another email, club member Adam Rosser alleges it took 146 days for the planning team to look at the plans and raise the issue of the boundary location.

Mr Anders said council haven’t assisted enough with the application.

“As a community club we needed help from somebody in the shire and it just did not come forward,” he said.

Council did issue a letter

of support for the project in August.

Ms Havercroft emphasised council’s ongoing support for the club’s initiative to build new clubrooms, and said council remains committed to finding a resolution.

“We will continue working to find a way forward and overcome the remaining challenges facing the club in its ambition to deliver a great outcome for the Alpine Shire community,” she said.

Following the Porepunkah Panthers’ statement on Facebook, in which the club alleged the council CEO had “been against the proposal since day one”, mayor John Forsyth reaffirmed council’s support for the CEO and took a stand against public statements targeting or wrongly accusing individual council officers.

“We are committed to fostering an environment that encourages open dialogue, respectful communication, and collaboration,” he said.

“We reject any attempts to undermine the professional reputation of individual council officers.”

The baseball club has said they will seek legal advice on how to proceed, but for now the club’s five baseball teams must continue with their shed and shipping container, and going to the public toilets over the road.

Meanwhile, amid the delays Mr Anders is concerned their benefactor won’t wait forever.

“It’s been three years; how long can we keep mucking around?” he said.

Bright Carols in the Park returns

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE IF YOU are looking for some local talent to spread some Christmas joy this week, look no further than the Bright Carols in the Park with Adam Lindsay performing.

The event, sponsored by the local Rotary Club, will see Adam playing from 6pm to 9pm with a brief interruption by Santa and his

elves just after 7pm.

Rotary Club of Bright secretary, Allan Poyner, said it will be a festive way to christen the newly-sown grass at Howitt Park.

“There’s a great area for families to get up and have a dance, as well as some seating available,” he said.

“We do hope we see people up and dancing and enjoying the event, it’s a very fun night.

“We’ll also be doing a blan-

ket go around to raise money for the local CFA groups.

“There are online songbooks you can access to sing along, with some hard copies floating around on the night.

“Bring your own picnic, enjoy the great atmosphere and get your singing voice ready.”

Bright Carols in the Park will be held Saturday, December 23 from 6pm at the Sibley Soundshell in Howitt Park.

FESTIVE SEASON: Rotary Club of Bright rotarians (from left) Jodie Germaine, Santa, Stephanie Petricevich and Michelle Chalwell are gearing up for carols this weekend. PHOTO: Brodie Everist :F?A923<?1

Est. 1933 THE ALPINE

Est. 2013 Incorporating Hydro Courier, Bright Observer, Est. 1881 and Kiewa Valley Observer, Est. 1952

mt hotham fallsnews creek Incorporating Dinner Plain & The Great Alpine Road

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www.alpineobserver.com.au

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Page 3

Nominations for Landcare awards NOMINATIONS are now open for the State and Territory Landcare Awards, with a number of new categories now open for submissions.

Designed to honour the individuals, groups and organisations making contributions to caring for the local environment, the awards’ new categories will recognise climate action, environmental leadership, sustainable agriculture, First Nations, Women in landcare, youth, coastcare and children.

Interested parties can nominate themselves, or nominate someone they know who they believe should be recognised for their work to restore, enhance and protect the natural environment in their community.

The nomination process is free.

For more information, or to nominate, visit https://aulandcareawards.awardsplatform.com.

Nominations close on March 1, 2024.

ON THE BALL: Sports store owner Paul Maskell said last week Christmas trade was beginning to increase, though he expected postChristmas holidaymakers to particularly boost custom.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

Christmas custom growing, say Myrtleford retailers CHRISTMAS shopping is beginning to heat up in Myrtleford, though retailers agree the busiest period is when holidaymakers arrive after December 25.

Last week clothes store owner Amy Rogers said trade had increased compared to November, with customers specifically seeking Christmas gifts.

“It’s getting to that point where it’s a bit harder to order online because you don’t know whether it’s going to arrive in time, so we’re definitely getting more people through the door,” she said.

According to Ms Rogers, to make the most of evening traffic a number of stores are staying open later on Fridays, including baby clothing store Baby Rove,

BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@ nemedia.com.au

Myrtleford Pharmacy and Creature Crafts.

“They’ve got live music in the Piazza on Friday night, so we thought there might be a few more people out and about,” she said.

“We just want to help those who do work until 5pm.”

Paul Maskell, owner of sports store Sportsfirst, also said Christmas custom was beginning to increase and hoped it would lead into high post-Christmas visitation, though he said many do their shopping in the regional centres, like Albury.

“Local support’s been great, so if they can keep that up that’d be really good,” he said.

He expects business to be strong after Christmas as visitors come to town for summer holidays and stock up on the items they left at home.

“We’re open Boxing Day and people come in and say ‘I need to buy a swag - it was on the roof of the car when I left and it’s not there now’,” he said.

“You always pick up people that forget stuff.”

Tara Clark, co-owner of Baby Rove, said they have been busy over the past few weeks, with consistent customers since they opened some months ago.

“There’s been a lot that have been buying Christmas and

birthday presents,” she said.

Myrtleford Chamber of Commerce president Jim van Geet said trade in town is often quiet until late in December, perhaps due to shoppers going to Wangaratta or Albury for their Christmas purchases, though he encouraged residents to shop local.

“Support local because we’re supporting them,” he said.

“We have great ranges of things to buy for Christmas.”

However, Ms Rogers had another reason why shoppers may be a little hesitant – last week’s stifling heat.

“I don’t want to be outside,” she said.

“I’m sure a lot of people are holding back.”

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

LETTERS to the editor must be signed with the full name, address and contact telephone number of the author provided. Letters under 250 words are preferred and we reserve the right to edit letters to fit available space.

Nom de plumes will only be published at the editor’s discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by this newspaper.

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

www.myrtlefordtimes.com.au

Communities being crushed by solar developments

IN Dederang we are fighting against a 400MWh battery installation on strategic agricultural land.

The Kiewa Valley is said to have some of the best agricultural land in Australia.

Our communities are being crushed by governments and big business.

These businesses send prospectors into regional communities to canvas farmers to sign up to renewable projects.

They eventually find someone who signs up for the multitude

Contracts, policies, petition at council meeting

 GIFTS GIVEN: Children having a photo with Father Christmas last Sunday evening.

By BRODIE EVERIST

ACROSS 1 Indian ruler 5 Clergyman 9 Person under age 11 Anger 12 Happen 13 Vegetable 15 Slippery fish 16 University term 18 Goddess of tillage and corn 20 Void 21 Part of the eye 23 Manufacturers 25 Yields 26 White downy substance 28 Symbol 30 Baking chamber 32 Soviet labour camp 33 Performed surgery 34 Annex 36 Faucet 37 Garbles 38 Old wool weight 39 Concise 40 Make certain 41 Lobby DOWN 2 Bowman 3 Entertains 4 Employs

5 Takes for granted 6 Layer 7 Mineral 8 Freeing 10 Frank 14 Book of maps 17 Large deer 18 Make to go round 19 Fissure 22 Produce 24 Wicked 25 Wish for wrongfully 27 Spinning toy 28 Unexpected 29 Stocking support 31 Back of the neck 32 Farm birds 33 Probability 35 Spanish nobleman

 GOOD TIMES: (From left) Whorouly resident Aleisha Philips and daughter Vivienne Ledgerwood, with Gapsted resident Sarah Holmes.  FAMILY FUN: Gerard and Evangeline Harrington. Ms Harrington was home for Christmas from London.

Family fun at Gapsted Christmas party

By BRODIE EVERIST SOLUTION R A J A H P A S T O R R M I N O R I R E P E A E E L O C C U R H S E M E S T E R E N U L L A C E R E S G M A K E R S I R I S F C E D E S V I R S S I G N C O T T O N O V E N G U L A G U O P E R A T E D R L A D D T A P E D I T S T E R S E E T O D E N S U R E E N T R Y

livelihoods of billions of people, including smallholders, family farmers, fisherfolk and other producers and food workers”.

In Colbinabbin they are fighting against a massive solar farm and battery storage project, again on prime agricultural land, crushing tourism in the area that is on the Silo Art Trail and close to wineries.

In Bobinawarrah (the King Valley) they are fighting a similar proposal.

These are just three examples and the people living in these areas are all under stress and the communities are being desecrated.

Then governments talk about building resilient rural communities!

Sharon McEvoy, Dederang

I am not against the idea of renewables, but I am against destroying our agricultural land and landscape in our high-value food-producing areas.

Agriculture is not the enemy, it can be part of the solution by storing carbon in the soil with a few practise changes.

The recent COP28 had a Declaration on Sustainable agriculture, resilient food systems and climate action signed by Australia.

Some of the statements in this document are: “Recognising the profound potential of agriculture and food systems to drive powerful and innovative responses to climate change and to unlock shared prosperity for all” and “noting that agriculture and food systems are fundamental to the lives and

of riches on offer.

The rest of the community is smashed.

We are destroyed by anxiety, stress and fear.

We are worried about the liveability of our homes, the future of our regions, the damage to the environment, the fire danger, our water catchments, our local flora and fauna.

There is no community consultation.

These multi-billion dollar companies only offer to talk to people individually or offer drop-in sessions at a local hall.

This is not community engagement - this is just easy for them.

Eventually, a proposal is put on a planning minister’s desk and this is how they decide where renewable projects end up.

FAMILIES were enjoying a sedate evening at the Gapsted Recreation Reserve last Sunday evening, with children enjoying a visit from Father Christmas on a local firetruck.

Member of the event organising committee Gillian Gasser said with an estimated 50 attendees she felt they had more

at the party than last year, including some young families.

“We’re really pleased that we’ve got new families moving into the district,” she said.

“That’s always lovely to keep the community thriving.”

Though they sometimes hold the annual event at the Gapsted Hall, Ms Gasser said it was particularly enjoyable at the reserve, with space for the

children to run around.

The children didn’t mind that Father Christmas arrived a little late, at around 7:40pm, and he gave out presents.

Ms Gasser said they also held a raffle of a gift hamper to raise some money for the Gapsted Hall.

She said the community are looking to meet more regularly, with some morning teas proposed at the hall next year.

THE Alpine Shire Council was set to consider the awarding of contracts for security patrol services and the cleaning of public bins and amenities at their monthly meeting last night.

According to the meeting agenda, the previous supplier of public bin and amenities cleaning ceased service in November, with an interim service delivery model involving a range of local suppliers been implemented to February 1 next year.

The agenda said the shire’s seasonal industries have caused unexpected and unprecedented increases in demand for public bins and amenities cleaning services.

While the service schedules have been updated to reflect increases in demand, the agenda said ongoing flexibility is required to enable a rapid response to any future increases in demand.

Council was also to receive a petition for an electric vehicle charging station in Mount Beauty and consider the adoption of a revised Child Safe Policy.

We’ll have full coverage of last night’s meeting - held after we’d gone to press – in next week’s edition.

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Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Page 5

Choir finishes year with gospel goodness

By BRODIE EVERIST

SINGING OUT: Members of the With One Voice Choir after their performance last Sunday.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

MYRTLEFORD’S With One Voice Choir finished their term of rehearsals with a gig at the St Paul’s Church last Sunday afternoon, followed by an afternoon tea at the hall next door.

Choirmaster Joe Davis said they performed very well, singing a series of gospel pieces such as Bill Withers’ Lean on Me and Don McLean’s Waters of Babylon.

He said the choir had grown and improved over the past 18 months, thanks to their rehearsals and the work of committee members.

“People are starting to band together and do various jobs to help,” he said.

“The tune and the pitch and the general discipline of the choir’s growing a lot.”

He also said the acoustics of the church was particularly pleasing.

The choir had been rehearsing for the performance for around 10 weeks, following a term-based rehearsal schedule.

Next term, starting at the beginning of February, will focus on Irish songs.

The choir rehearses on Thursdays from 6-7pm at the St Paul’s Church hall on 14 Clyde, Myrtleford.

No auditions are necessary.

Mr Davis also thanked the St Paul’s Church for letting them use the hall for rehearsals.

Haines welcomes phone and internet connectivity funding INDEPENDENT Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines has welcomed more than $2.36 million to establish Fibre to the Premise NBN in Harrietville and more than $900,000 to build a mobile phone tower at Kennedys Point to improve service coverage on Lake Eildon.

“This is a big win for these regional communities who have raised their concerns

about poor connectivity and how it impacts their daily lives,” Dr Haines said.

“I’m pleased that the government has listened and acted.”

Dr Haines supported both the applications for federal funding as part of her longstanding work with her Indi Telecommunications Advisory Group (ITAG).

“The existing mobile phone infrastructure around

Lake Eildon cannot cope with the added demand of summer holidaymakers, resulting in patchy service for local communities during bushfire season,” Dr Haines said.

“The funding of a new mobile tower will be a welcome relief for the residents of Bonnie Doon.

“As an Independent MP, I have successfully advocated for communities across Indi to receive funding for better

phone and internet connection – the Kennedys Point tower is the thirteenth mobile phone tower to have been funded since I was elected in 2019.

“With improved internet connectivity, Harrietville residents will be better supported to study, run businesses from home, access telehealth appointments and enjoy the modern conveniences that people in the

big cities take for granted.

“Connectivity is critical during natural disasters and I’ve worked hard to improve phone and internet coverage across Indi’s many valleys and vast high country to help communities stay informed and connected.

“Almost one in three Australians live outside the major cities, and as regional Australians we know and understand how connectiv-

ity issues and the digital divide holds us back at times.

“The delivery of good phone and internet services should not be dependent upon where we live.

“By working with individual communities and local councils, we have had significant success in securing funding to improve regional phone and internet coverage. But there is still much work to do.”

Marian College

Celebrates Success Marian College Dux of 2023, Caitlin Shute (ATAR 94.55) together with other classmates and College VWDႇ FHOHEUDWHG WKHLU achievements including three students with ATARs DERYH 0DULDQ VWXGHQWV achieved 11 study scores DERYH ZKLFK SODFHV these students in the WRS RI WKH VWDWH :LWK an outstanding median study score of 30, Marian VWXGHQWV FDQ KDYH DEVROXWH FRQ¿GHQFH WKDW WKH &ROOHJH SURYLGHV WKHP RSSRUWXQLWLHV PDWFKLQJ DQG H[FHHGLQJ RWKHU PXFK ODUJHU VFKRROV LQ WKH UHJLRQ 7KH SULGH WKDW Marian College takes in the achievement of its students ZDV DV HYHU YLVLEOH DW WKH VFKRRO¶V DQQXDO <HDU morning tea following the release of results on Monday last week.

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Smaller Community - Big Opportunity

REWDLQHG D PHGLDQ VWXG\ VFRUH RI 0DULDQ &ROOHJH KDV FRQVLVWHQWO\ GHPRQVWUDWHG WKH LPSRUWDQFH RI RXU ORFDO schools as an asset to our students, our families and our community.

Page 6 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

www.myrtlefordtimes.com.au

Power outage causes mobile service loss

By BRODIE EVERIST A FAULT at the Everton Exchange following a storm caused issues with mobile and fixed line services last Thursday, according to telecommunications company Telstra.

Telstra regional general manager Jenny Gray said a fault at the Everton Exchange was the cause of the issue due to a power outage after recent storms.

On Thursday she said the majority of mobile sites and fixed line services across the Alpine Shire region have been fixed but they were continuing to monitor to ensure everything is working properly.

“Our techs worked to get everything back up and running as quickly as possible and we thank everyone for their patience, and we are sorry that we interrupted people’s Thursday,” she said.

On Thursday Leonie Collins, proprietor of a Bright lolly shop, said they were unable to make electronic transactions until around 11:20am, losing some customers due to the issue.

She said one customer had to go and find her husband who had cash, while another was a little irritated that only cash transactions could be made.

However, she described the day as being moderately quiet, with businesses “waiting for the deluge of Boxing Day holidaymakers”.

“The message got around that businesses couldn’t accept cards,” she said.

Other businesses, such as the Bright Newsagency and a clothing retailer, said they were unaffected by the mobile and fixed line outage.

GETTING TOGETHER: Some of the well-dressed attendees at the Myrtleford Gardeners Library Group plant and food swap.

CHRISTMAS CHEER: Greg and Glenys Pepyat at the Bright Croquet Christmas lunch.

Partying on across the shire

By BRODIE EVERIST LOCAL groups have been celebrating Christmas these past weeks as they finish up activities for the year.

The Myrtleford Gardeners Library Group finished off the year last Saturday morning with a high tea-themed final meet outside the Myrtleford Library, with the Myrtleford Ukulele Group performing.

Regular attendee Nina Greenaway said she enjoys meeting with likeminded gardeners.

“I love coming here because we’re all a friendly bunch of gardening addicts,” she said.

Last Thursday the Bright Croquet Club were holding their Christmas party underneath the elm tree behind the club rooms, but that wasn’t’ the end of croquet for the year, according to president Joan Thompson.

“We’ll be here next Thursday and hopefully they might come Tuesday evenings for twilight croquet,” she said.

Club member John Hart said 2023 had been a successful year for the club.

“We’ve got things in shipshape, where we want to be,” he said.

“We could do with a few more members, naturally enough.”

Ms Thompson thanked the

Bright Community Bank for their grant for a shade by the clubroom.

She also thanked council for pruning a nearby ash tree, which has caused havoc in the past by dropping limbs on the clubrooms, once last year and again in February.

Other Christmas events included the Lazy Boys social group celebrating Christmas at a Bright Italian restaurant.

RYLE FRP DX

Myrtleford P12 College is celebrating the outstanding achievements of its 2023 Year 12 cohort.

We are thrilled to have a 100% VCE pass rate.

Two of our students achieved ATARs in the 90’s with over half of the class scoring ATARs over 70.

The graduating class will now head off in variety of directions. One student received an early offer to study law at the University of New England, another will be moving to Canberra to work for the ACT Government in Rural Infrastructure and Planning.

The others are confident of getting their first choice of courses when the first round of university of offers are realised on the 21st December.

Our non-scored students will now move into apprenticeships/pathways which will require some further study. The career directions are varied and include careers in horticulture, agriculture and childcare.

Our close relationship with Marian

HAVING FUN: The Myrtleford Ukulele group performed outside the Myrtleford Library last Saturday.

Congratulations to

Hannah Pear and Lani Cousins who both received ATARs in the 90’s.

College continues to result in excellent academic outcomes for local students.

The partnership is committed to providing our VCE students with small classes taught by experienced teachers who know them well in a caring and orderly environment. This year both schools scored a median study score of 30. This is an impressive result and is higher than ALL other schools in our part of the state. Well done, Myrtleford!

Myrtleford P12 College Inspirational

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www.alpineobserver.com.au

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Page 7

VCE results roll in, leaving students proud and relieved

BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@ nemedia.com.au

ZOE Ditcham wasn’t particularly anxious when she checked her study scores at 7am last Monday, mainly because she’d only just gotten out of bed – and she had to get to work at a local coffee van.

“I hadn’t fully come to consciousness yet, so I wasn’t super nervous,” she said.

“I was the night before for sure.”

The Bright P-12 student was one of many Victorian students who last week received their Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR), a number between 0 and 99.95 made up of their scaled study scores from their year 12 subjects.

Zoe was the dux of her school, receiving an 83.2 ATAR, and she also received a 43 in Aboriginal Languages.

“I was really happy with most of my study scores,” she said.

“I didn’t think they would add up as highly as they did

STUDIED HARD: Bright P-12 College dux Zoe Ditcham received a 43 in Aboriginal Languages, but she also worked particularly hard for English, an admitted weak spot for her. for my ATAR, so that was really exciting.”

Zoe achieved a 29 in English, above the needed 25 for her preferred course in finance and accounting at Latrobe University.

She admitted English wasn’t a strong subject for her and particularly thanked English teacher Mrs Lewis for her assistance.

“I spent several hours with her trying to help me with my essay writing,” she said.

“She was very patient with me.”

Unlike Zoe, Myrtleford P12 College dux Hannah Pear said her hands were

shaking when she checked her study scores and didn’t realise she needed to log into the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre website to find out her ATAR. “I was trying to find passwords and things, it was nerve-wracking,” she said.

Hannah said her ATAR of 91.1 was exciting and unexpected.

“I wasn’t really expecting to get a 90 - it was quite nice actually,” she said.

Having a school principal for a father helped with navigating the tertiary admission process, she said, but he didn’t help much with study.

CONGRATULATIONS: Marian College dux Caitlin Shute received a 94.55 ATAR. PHOTOS: Brodie Everist “[He] let me do my thing, which was good,” Hannah said.

“Working the whole year, rather than trying to cram at exam time really helped me.”

Myrtleford P12 principal Zlatko Pear said he was particularly happy with the school’s VCE results, with over half of students receiving an ATAR above 70.

“That’s a bit of an endorsement of local schools, small classes, us knowing the kids and their families well,” he said.

“It makes a difference.”

Mr Pear also emphasised that there are many options

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for students for didn’t receive the ATAR they were hoping for.

“Getting a score that little bit less than you’re expecting isn’t the end of the world,” he said.

“That doesn’t mean you’re not still going to go into the pathways that you want, there’s still many options to do that.”

Marian College dux Caitlin Shute didn’t need an ATAR for her preferred course in the creative industries, but she still received a 94.55.

She said she has already received a preliminary offer from JMC Academy in Melbourne to study a Bachelor

of Design and Visual Communication.

Caitlin excelled in creative subjects, receiving a 45 in Product Design and Technology and a 43 in Visual Communication and Design, but also received a 41 in Media and a 44 in general Mathematics.

“It was mainly the creative ones that I enjoyed,” she said.

“I didn’t mind maths as well because I did the easiest one, but I still enjoyed that a bit.”

Marian College principal Cath Watter congratulated their 2023 VCE class.

According to Ms Watter, across the cohort three students received ATARs above 90 and an additional two placed above 80.

“These are results that reflect the effort and commitment of students, the support of all their families and some very dedicated teachers,” she said.

“We can equally celebrate the success of students completing VCE VM and VET courses, with some already moving into full-time employment and apprenticeships or enrolled at TAFE.”

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Page 8 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

www.myrtlefordtimes.com.au

PEOPLE AROUND TOWN

Rob Paynting How long have you lived in Myrtleford?

Almost eight years. I moved from Charlton near Mildura.

What are your hobbies or interests?

Car racing, motorbike racing, I like going for walks around town. I go push bike riding – we’ve got the rail trails around here. You just get on those and keep riding.

What do you like about the area?

The scenery and the people. Everyone’s friendly and the scenery changes all the time, especially with the loggers and the winter, summer. Sometimes you can see the snow on Buffalo.

POREPUNKAH

It’s absolutely fantastic, especially when you’re coming from Bright.

Where would you take visitors to showcase the area?

The rail trail for starters, up to Buffalo - show them the chalet up there. Bright’s a nice place and Beechworth’s a beautiful spot too.

Is there anything you would change about the area?

It changes in its own natural way, so probably not.

Do you have any ambitions for the future?

Retirement and enjoy this beautiful town and the surroundings.

Claire Chandler (with daughter Dulcie) How long have you been living in the area?

Just over two years.

What do you do for a living?

Clinical psychologist.

What are your hobbies and interests?

I’m quite busy at the moment with two small children, but when I get a chance I love riding my bike, sewing, and baking.

What do you like about the area?

It’s a great place to have a young family - so many

TAWONGA SOUTH

outdoor activities.

Where would you take visitors to showcase the area?

Most of our visitors come from Queensland and are pretty keen to head up Buffalo for some snow play.

Is there anything you would change about the area?

There needs to be a footpath down Martley Street, Porepunkah - so school kids and people with prams don’t have to keep walking on an increasingly busy road.

Derek Hutton

MYRTLEFORD

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How long have you lived in the area?

For the majority of my life.

I was away for awhile but the valley sirens called me back.

What do you like about living here?

The valley community, the surrounds.

Would you like to see any changes?

No, I love it exactly how it is.

What are your hobbies and interests?

I volunteer at the Mount Beauty Men’s Shed. I’m a presenter in Alpine FM radio, I like to read.

Where would you take visitors to showcase the area?

Up to the high country in summer.

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The Team at Great Alpine Dental would like to thank the Community of Myrtleford, Bright and surrounding areas for their continued support. The Team at Great Alpine Dental would like to wish the community of Myrtleford a very safe and Happy Festive Season!

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www.alpineobserver.com.au

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Page 9

Christmas joy spreads through Kiewa Valley

By FAY MASON, Kiewa Valley Correspondent Fay, who is also a regular host on Alpine Radio, can be contactedon

0410 738 266, or email faymariemason@ gmail.com

THE Mount Beauty Lions Club held their Christmas Carols evening last Friday, with a good crowd enjoying the entertainment from the community band, the school bands and singers, the Mount Beauty Singers.

Father Christmas came along to the delight of all the little kids.

Hosted by Yvonne Sutton it was a perfect way to start the Christmas celebrations.

FLEX and Bend sessions could be the way to start the new year to help you get fit after enjoying all the Christmas goodies.

Exercise with low impact.

Participant, Marian Caldwell said “I like the social interaction as well as the exercise, suitable for all ages.”

FAB sessions are on at the Mount Beauty Swimming Pool

MAKING A GENTLE SPLASH: Participants enjoy a Flex and Bend class.

HERE’S a treat for Christmas - a poem written by resident bush poet at the Mount Beauty and District Men’s Shed, Irvin Beeston.

RHYME AND REASON: Local poet Irvin Beeson.

A Men’s Shed is for everyone, and that’s just how we feel, A Mens Shed is there for you , and believe us that is real, It started off as a good idea, but it grew and grew and grew, Now, we’re proud to show the world, and be here to welcome you.

We don’t open just a building, our

every Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 10.30am until 11.30am.

Qualified facilitators take each class, equipment is supplied , at a very reasonable $3.50 per session.

For more information call Heather Jackson on 0407 885 042.

ALPINE FM Brunch program today

will have guests Dr Helen Haines speaking at 9.30am, at 10.10am author and motivational speaker Michael McQueen will be talking about his latest book “Mindstruck” then Talking Heads after the 11am news.

HAVE a very Happy Christmas Everyone, this column will be back again next week.

CAROLS: A crowd enjoyed the Mount Beauty Lions Club’s Christmas Carols. hearts are opened too.

We welcome all and sundry, white, khaki, any coloured hue.

There’s mateship by the bucket load, no matter what your creed If you can talk and make a joke, you will be a friend indeed.

You don’t need to be a “ chippie” you don’t need so many skills, If you can laugh and you can talk, you will lose all your ills.

There’s someone here who’ll lend an ear and help you with you thoughts, Will talk with you, help you

through, and the cost to you is naughts.

This year’s been a busy year with projects, I have lost track, With sanding machines, blacksmith’s forge, and patios out the back Kindling chipper and pallet breaker kept many men employed, When we counted up the cash, that is what we all enjoyed.

Now we’re intent on spending it, our biggest project yet, A CNC with coral draw, laptops,

windows, and more to get, We all must learn to use it, even though it sounds absurd, We’ll have to learn “computer speak”, I could become the oldest nerd.

So our shed’s still moving onward, won’t find us looking back, I’m learning how to BBQ without burgers turning black.

I haven’t touched the food today, you can eat the Christmas cheer, I wish you a Merry Christmas and the happiest New Year.

Page 10 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

www.myrtlefordtimes.com.au

www.alpineobserver.com.au

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Page 11

New Omicron vaccine launched at local pharmacies

BETER TIMES AHEAD: Despite a fall in beef farmer confidence this year Mudgegonga cattle farmer Loretta Carroll, pictured with kelpie Lucy, said the recent increase in cattle prices is a cause for optimism.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

Commodity prices concerns drive down farmer confidence SENTIMENT has continued to decline among Victorian farmers, according to Rabobank’s latest quarterly rural confidence survey, with beef farmers particularly concerned by softer commodity prices.

Beef sector confidence in the state has been impacted by soft commodity prices seen during this survey, which was completed last month.

According to the survey completed in November, 51 per cent of Victorian beef producers are expecting agricultural business conditions to worsen in the coming year (up from 40 per cent in the previous quarter), with a majority citing falling commodity prices as their key concern.

Rabobank regional manager for Southern Victoria and Tasmania, Deborah MaskellDavies, said Victorian beef

BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@ nemedia.com.au

producers are hoping that they have passed the bottom of the market, with cattle prices finding a floor in October and rising again since November.

“The November rain across northern NSW and Queensland has had the knock-on impact of seeing Victorian saleyard restocker steer prices jump 36 per cent since the beginning of October,” she said.

“Hopefully the confidence returns to the market to help it stay there or go higher.”

Mudgegonga cattle farmer Loretta Carroll said she has seen first-hand the drop in cattle prices this year.

She received over $6 per kilo for weaner steers in 2021, but in

2022 she saw a $600 dollar drop for same-aged calves, and a similar drop in December 2023 - and that was after a recent lift in prices.

“There were times throughout the year where cattle at the yards could not even fetch a bid and many saw a 50 per cent decline,” she said.

Ms Carroll suggested the fall in prices may have been partially caused by Meat and Livestock Australia reporting early this year that Australian cattle numbers were expected to grow to 28.8 million head, a number she believes was erroneous, and cited a livestock analyst.

Wangaratta-based meat and livestock industry analyst Simon Quilty was reported in a February Beef Central article saying MLA’s herd estimate was close to three million too high.

“Over-inflated figures send the wrong market signals globally and lead to poor decisions on-farm and off-farm by those who believe them,” Mr Quilty reportedly said.

Ms Carroll also said cattle producers had been excessively cautious in responding to fears of an El Nino climate pattern.

“This prompted many cattle producers to hold off from buying both cattle and sheep and it appeared to have served as a catalyst in reducing the dollar value in all markets, including the prime cattle markets,” she said.

However, Ms Carroll said the recent increase in cattle prices was a cause for optimism.

“It’s improved in this last month, prices have come up fairly dramatically, sort of 30 cents and 40 cents a week,” she said.

A NEW COVID-19 vaccine designed to target the Omicron variant will soon be available in community pharmacies throughout the North East and wider Australia.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved the XBB 1.5 category of vaccines earlier this year, for use as a primary vaccine dosage or as a booster vaccine.

Pharmacy Guild of Australia national president, professor Trent Twomey, said the new vaccine will target the virus which is currently circulating among the population.

“With COVID-19 cases on the rise, it is important that anyone who is due for their vaccination does so as soon as they can at their local community pharmacy,” Prof Twomey said.

“Health authorities have recommended that vaccines move away from formulations which target the original or ancestral strain.”

Managing pharmacist of Myrtleford Pharmacy, Tony Nguyen, said stock should arrive this week.

He said they have ordered one box of Pfizer vaccine for ages 12 and above, and another box for ages 18 and above, with around 60 doses in each box.

“We also ordered one box of the Moderna which will be about 30 doses,” Mr Nguyen said.

“It’s been slower lately so we didn’t want to order more than enough and it becomes out of date but we’ll keep getting new stock as demand needs.

“It is a good idea to call ahead to make sure we have the stock but we usually do them Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and walk-ins are welcome.”

Prof Twomey said the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) was not recommending those who are not due for their vaccination to get an additional booster because of the arrival of the new vaccine.

“The advice remains that you must wait six months from your last jab to get your next booster shot and older vaccinations still provide protection against the severest of symptoms,” he said.

The new vaccines are being manufactured

by Pfizer and Moderna, with Pfizer developing a formulation for patients between five and 12 years old, as well as one for patients aged 12 and over.

Moderna will produce its own formulation for the latter age range.

To find your nearest participating pharmacy, visit www.findapharmacy.com.au.

Feel connected this Christmas

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Page 12 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

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Christmas Greetings Publications and d deadlines ove er the Christmas New Year period d!

Publication date:

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Wednesday, December 27

Wednesday, December 20 - 4pm

Wednesday, January 3, 2024

NO PAPER

Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Monday, January 8 - 3pm

from businesses in the Alpine Shire

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We would like to wish all our advertisers and readers a Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year!

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Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year!

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25 Clyde Street, Myrtleford, Call 03 5751 1995 or Email admin@paynterassoc.com.au

Christmas Wishes from

OVENS VALLEY CHAINSAWS & LAWNMOWERS

Mount Beauty Medical Centre Closed: Sunday 25, Monday 26,

Doctors Mark Zagorski, Jeff Robinson, Libby Garoni, Skye Delaney, Laura Zagorski, Angela Stratton, Lauren Cussen, Damian Heman, Daniel Florisson, Andrew Mason and staff of Mount Beauty Medical Centre wish all of our patients a

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR FOR 2024

®

Tuesday 27 December 2023 Reopen: Wednesday 28th December 2023 Closed: Sunday 31st December 2023 and Monday 1st January 2024 Reopen: Tuesday 2nd January 2024 There is a doctor on call for all emergencies.

For emergencies ring 000 or contact the hospital on (03) 5754 3500 Nursing staff will contact the oncall Mount Beauty Medical Centre doctor if necessary MOUNT BEAUTY MEDICAL CENTRE IS A FULLY ACCREDITED GENERAL PRACTICE

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

We will be Closed from Friday December 22nd 5.00p.m. and reopen Thursday 11th January, 2024 P (03) 5752 1270 - F (03) 5752 1670 52-54 Myrtle St, Myrtleford, Vic. 3737

Give the gift that Read local news wherever you are Ĵ 2 )&16 )* ) '*2/, )&0+ 6*2 1/201 Ĵ ,#*/+ 1&*, 1% 1 (""-0 6*2 *,," 1"! Ĵ "40 #/*+ 1%" )-&," %&/" ,! %&$% *2,1/6 4%"/"3"/ 6*2 /"

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THE ALPINE

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Page 13

www.alpineobserver.com.au

The Motor Doctor

CRISPYS HARDWARE

Ronis workshop

The team at Crispys Hardware would like to wish all valued customers a Very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year.

WOULD LIKE TO WISH ALL VALUED CUSTOMERS A

Merry Christmas AND A Happy New Year

5755 1933 22 Wills St., Bright

Workshop: 5752 2901

Closed Public Holidays only

The workshop will be closing from 21st of December 2023 and reopening on 1st of February 2024.

Standish Street Surgery Doctors, Nurses & Staff wish all our patients and families a Healthy & Happy Holiday Season.

CLINIC IS CLOSED FOR THE PUBLIC HOLIDAYS Saturday 23rd December 2023:

OPEN (Morning Clinic)

Monday 25th December 2023:

CLOSED

Tuesday 26th December 2023:

CLOSED

Saturday 30th December 2023:

OPEN (Morning Clinic)

Monday 1st January 2024:

CLOSED

107 Standish Street Myrtleford 3737

If you require medical assistance, Doctors from Standish Street Surgery are On Call over Christmas / New Year through the Myrtleford Hospital Phone: 03 5751 9300.

In All Emergencies Please Ring 000 (Triple Zero)

Wishing all our valued clients a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Closed 23/12/2023 to 8/01/2024

For all your Concrete, Landscaping and Quarry supplies, talk to Maurice at 03 5752 1573

Page 14 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

www.myrtlefordtimes.com.au

ARV call on resort residents for bushfire preparation

CLASS OF 2023: Front row from left: Erin Gorham, Taylah Gardiner, Jacarra Drew, Elizabeth Rose. Back row, from left: Nicholas George, Callum Bowring, Isaac Armitage, Joshua Angelini, Hannah Gray, Gary Hollonds , Jacqui Hollonds, and Simone Roy.

Year 12s excel at Mount Beauty Secondary College

By FAY MASON MOUNT Beauty Secondary College’s Year 12 Results - photo to follow.

College principal Simone Roy said the college community was extremely proud of all of their year 12s results for 2023.

“Every student successfully completed their Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), or Victorian Certificate EducationVocational Major (VCE-VM),” she said.

“They all have pathways planned for next year, be it taking a gap year before commencing further study, going to employment, or starting

tertiary education.

“The school wishes each and every one of the year 12s the very best in their future endeavours.”

The Dux of the College for 2023 was Matthew Kusz, earning an ATAR of 92.95.

“Matthew has been a quiet achiever throughout his years at the school, working diligently and to an excellent level at all times across his classes,” Ms Roy said.

“Matthew was closely followed

by Josh Angelini, earning an ATAR of 90.85.

“Josh has been a hard working student, excelling in maths and science, overcoming a severe illness throughout the exams to be

able to achieve so highly.

“The third highest scoring student was Jacarra Drew with an ATAR of 90.6.

“Jacarra is also a conscientious and dedicated student who managed her busy work/ life balance while continuing her studies and performances in dance.”

Fifty per cent of the students attained an ATAR of over 70, and 32 per cent attained an ATAR of over 80 which was an impressive result for the students and for the college as a whole.

“All students who received an ATAR ranking undertook scored assessments and external examinations , we congratulate them

Got News?

Combined Churches of B right

Let us know about it!

Christmas Lunch

Contact journalist Brodie Everist at the Myrtleford Times/Alpine Observer on (03) 5731 3307 or e-mail edit.timesobserver@nemedia.com.au

Christmas Day brings together families that may not see each other any other time of the year. In many circumstances this is not always so, but there is a get together on Christmas Day that those singles and couples alone can join in. Combined Churches of Bright celebrate on Christmas Day by providing a free lunch and good company to all who would like to partake. Christmas Day is a day that no one should spend alone, so come one come all and join us at the Uniting Church Community Centre and meet new friends and old.

FREE Quotes & Garden/Driveway Design 7 DAYS a week Dry Hire or with Operator Landscaping scaping

Bookings to be made to Lynn & Henry Martin 03 5756 2898 or 0429 429 180 by Wednesday 20th December.

Don't spend Christmas day alone...

on their efforts in completing these in 2023,” Ms Roy said.

“All students should be proud if their results and achievements, they have excelled, and for some, have overcome difficult circumstances in completing their education in 2023.

“The college is proud of them all as graduates of Mount Beauty Secondary College.

“The Mount Beauty Secondary College is very grateful to the Hollonds family who have been very generous in funding the Jessie Hollonds Scholarship to VCE students for the last 50 years.

“This year, nine students each received $2500 towards their tertiary education.”

Special thanks to the local businesses who donate and the volunteers who make this possible.

Garden Clearing

ALPINE Resorts Victoria (ARV) has started its annual bushfire preparation program for the 2023-24 summer, and is calling on alpine communities to support efforts to protect alpine resorts by helping with clean-up and maintenance activities.

“Everything an individual property owner does to help protect their own property also has a wider benefit – it helps the whole resort avoid impact from a bushfire,” said Elise Armitage, ARV Head of Property and Planning.

“We know the devastating impacts a bushfire can have on a small community.

“By doing a relatively small amount of work together before the bushfire season, we can significantly support firefighting efforts by reducing some of the risk.”

Alpine property owners need to be proactive in their preparations leading up to the bushfire danger period.

The CFA’s Mark Owens, Commander of the Alpine Service Delivery Team, said Victoria’s fire services don’t have the resources to protect individual properties.

“If there are fires in one location, there will be fires in other locations,” Commander Owens said.

“Our first priority therefore is to protect life.

“Our second priority is to defend critical infrastructure, like water and power supplies.”

According to ARV, their resort management teams have been working with the CFA since October to provide support to property owners, with fire preparation days already held at the resorts.

“Just because it’s still green doesn’t mean anyone can afford to be complacent,” Commander Owens said.

“The weather is likely to turn warm quickly, and when you consider the distance that alpine property holders have to travel to get to their properties, it could be too late if you wait too long to prepare.”

Most property owners at ARV’s alpine resorts don’t live at the resorts yearround, and many only visit during the winter season.

ARV is also recommending property owners ensure maintenance and cleanup is done during the ‘green season’ to protect their properties and the resort as a whole.

ARV have said property owners are responsible for general clean-up on their leases, including removing fuel such as long grass, fallen limbs, wood, rubbish, leaf litter, twigs and bark, and closing all property windows and doors and reducing or sealing gaps in buildings.

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www.alpineobserver.com.au

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Page 15

THE ALPINE

Alpine

THINGS TO DO AND SEE ACROSS THE ALPINE SHIRE, HIGH COUNTRY AND RESORTS

Summer 2023/24

LOCAL MUSIC SHINES Myrtleford’s weekly music get-together is a hit with town locals, with attendees enjoying the dulcet tones of musicians from across the shire, as well as the summer twilight and the chance to catch up in the centre of town. Last week featured Mount Beauty duo Lifedreamers, with Josh Kynaston and Evie Nowicka.

Story page 2.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

Every Friday throughout December 2023 ǀĞƌLJ ^ĂƚƵƌĚĂLJ ŝŶ ϮϬϮϰ ƵŶƟů &Ğď ϭϬƚŚ DLJƌƚůĞĨŽƌĚ ^ƵŵŵĞƌ ^ĞƌŝĞƐ

LIVE MUSIC

JD & the Kat — Next Door’s Camellias — Lifedreamers — Adam Lindsay — Tahlia Brain — Red Brick Radio — Elissa & Rudy — Chloe Jade — The Stents — Cat Magic — and more...

Picnic in the Myrtleford Town Piazza

6.00pm—8.00pm

Follow us on Facebook for the full program

Page 16 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

www.myrtlefordtimes.com.au

Alpine

THE ALPINE

Summer 2023/24

THINGS TO DO AND SEE ACROSS THE ALPINE SHIRE, HIGH COUNTRY AND RESORTS

Summer Series sharing local talent

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

One Voice Choir and The Sneakers, which is a five-piece tribute to The Seekers.

“The main reason people come along is there’s not much in terms of live music in the area on Friday nights and it’s a really great, familyoriented event.

“It doesn’t cost anyone anything and people can bring their own food and drinks.”

The Summer Series runs every Friday in December, before moving to every Saturday in January, all from 6-8pm in the Myrtleford Piazza.

“It’s such a nice way to spend a summer evening,” Mr Katterl said.

“I booked all the acts because they’re local and I just like the idea of live music; that’s what I’ve been doing for all of my life and it’s great that it’s all North East musicians.

“I’ve been playing for 45 years myself and this is really a great event for Myrtleford to have; it’s really a credit to the chamber and to Kerry.”

MYRTLEFORD’S Summer Series has been entertaining local families on warm evenings in December, with many more of the weekly events to come.

Coordinator Rudi Katterl said the turnout at each event has been great.

“The weather’s been fantastic, lucky for us, and everyone who comes along has enjoyed hearing local musicians play,” he said.

“We’ve had a mix of genres, and more to come, with JD and the Kat who are more bluesy jazz, Next Door’s Camellias and the Life Dreamers who perform originals and covers.

“In January Red Brick Radio will do some well-known songs in their own way, Chloe Jade will have a fair few originals, The Stents is music from the heart, while Cat Magic is a duo with some beautiful vocal harmonies.

The last official event will feature

NEW YEAR: Last year’s Myrtleford Bush Market was a huge success, this year is even bigger.

Bush market hosts more stalls than ever

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

MUSIC TO CELEBRATE: Duo Lifedreamers from Mount Beauty; Josh Kynaston and Evie Nowicka, played at the Summer Series last week.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

MUSIC MAGIC: Rudi Katterl playing at the first Summer Series concert at the start of December.

AFTER expanding to 120 stalls last year, the Myrtleford Bush Market is looking to be even bigger in January.

Market coordinator Melanie Dymond said there will be a huge variety of stalls on the day.

“We’re super excited to be even bigger this year, we have everything from clothing to furniture to garden things, plus lots more food and drink stalls this year,” she said.

“We’ll have live music playing throughout the day, which is a lovely vibe, and it’s back at the recreation reserve down the centre road of the showgrounds so it’s nice and shady for a hot January day.

“It’s such a great market, I encourage everyone to come down and have a shop, sit in the shade and enjoy the day; there’s plenty there and truly something for everyone.”

The market will be held on Friday, January 5 from 9am to 2pm at the Myrtleford Recreation Reserve on O’Donnell Ave.

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www.alpineobserver.com.au

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Page 17

Alpine

THE ALPINE

Summer 2023/24

THINGS TO DO AND SEE ACROSS THE ALPINE SHIRE, HIGH COUNTRY AND RESORTS

Getting rodeo ready

By LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE

RIDE ‘EM COWBOY: Corbin Mundy gets high on the saddle bronc at last year’s event.

THE 68th Myrtleford Golden Spurs Rodeo has more entries than ever, with current conditions perfect for a successful Boxing Day event.

Secretary Mick Cross said weather should be mid 20s for the day, warming a large number of entries and an earlier starting time to fit in all events.

“You can come in earlier but the event will begin at 3.30pm on the day,” he said.

“Golden Spurs is a fantastic thing for Myrtleford; it brings people in and is very much a family event so this year again we’ve brought back the little tackers event.

“The most pleasurable aspect is the money we raise going straight back into the Myrtleford community.

“It’s not a profit-making event for us, the Myrtleford Lions Club do all sorts of things with that money like sponsoring children, providing Christmas dinner for people in Myrtleford and we once sponsored a whole oncology room in Albury after fundraising for two years.

MYRTLEFORD BUSH MARKET Friday 5th January 2024 9am to 2pm

Myrtleford Recreation Reserve 109 O'Donnell Ave

Arts & Crafts Entertainment Fresh Produce – Food Court Jewellery, Clothing, Tools & Plants Health and beauty products something for everyone See you there to discover more!!

Myrtleford - Love the Life!

Bookings – www.visitmyrtleford.com see calendar of events Enquiries :-0423 504 616

“It’s been harder and harder to get volunteers, as people know, but we had 22 people from the Lions Club and about nine other volunteers so we’re very thankful for those people.

“Also on the day we’ll have plenty of food vendors; spaces sold out in the first few weeks, and a semitrailer full of rodeo paraphernalia.

“The crescendo of the whole event is the open bull ride; the shootout, which is worth $8000 this year so if a bull can be ridden that’s winner takes all.

“A huge thank you to our local sponsors who make sure the rodeo goes ahead.

“We’re trying to be more recyclable this year and will have a trailer for empty cans which the Myrtleford Swimming Club will collect and cash them in when they clean up after the event.

“We’ve also gone online for tickets, the early bird run is finished but there are still tickets available.

“It’s looking to be a great day, come along and enjoy it.”

Jarrod Gill, from John Gill and

Boxing day event offering $8k for shootout winner Sons who provide the bull stock, said he was looking forward to seeing some of the good match-ups between bulls and riders.

“It is a very particular bull that will go to a rodeo; all bulls you see these days are bred down through the generations and we’ve been breeding rodeo bulls since the 1960s,” he said.

“A bull out of a paddock doesn’t know how to buck and move its weight.

“They have to be athletic and then add a bit of weight and height to it but athleticism is the key.

“You need the animals to have a good temperament; when I feed them I can walk in with them, and then they know when it’s rodeo day and their adrenaline kicks in which gives them the fire to operate.

“I’ll be looking out for Spotted Danger and Grey Ghost as well as Homicidal and Bucks Boy with Toby Doodney which is a good match-up.”

The Golden Spurs Rodeo will be held at the Myrtleford Recreation Reserve from 3.30pm on Boxing Day, 2023.

Page 18 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

www.myrtlefordtimes.com.au

MYRTLEFORD GOLDEN SPURS

boxing day 2023 ESTABLISHED 1954 $50,000 PRIZE MONEY INCLUDING ESTIMATED ADDED ENTRIES FEATURING HAPPY GILLS NEW BULLS ‘GOLD BANDIT’ & ‘VERTICAL EXIT’ CONDUCTED UNDER LIGHTS AT THE MYRTLEFORD RECREATION RESERVE FROM 4PM TILL LATE BIG SCREEN INSTANT REPLAYS FULLY CATERED BYO CHAIR NO BYO ALCOHOL OR GLASS PERMITTED ADULT $35 TEENAGER (13 TO 17 YEARS) $25 CHILDREN (7 TO 12 YEARS) $15 CHILDREN UNDER 7 FREE FAMILY TICKET (2 ADULTS 2 CHILDREN) $85 (NO CONCESSIONS). PASS OUTS AVAILABLE RUN ENTIRELY BY VOLUNTEERS WITH ALL PROCEEDS PUT BACK INTO LION’S PROGRAMS AND LOCAL COMMUNITY Inducted Hall of Fame 2019

MYRTLEFORD - BRIGHT

LITTLE TACKERS CHUTE OUT

KIDS WITH THE RIGHT STUFF!

CONDUCTED DURING DINNER BREAK

TICKETS AT GATE OR SAVE $$$ WITH EARLY BIRD TICKETS ONLINE @

& WWW.MYRTLEFORDRODEO.COM.AU

www.alpineobserver.com.au

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Page 19

Loretta Carroll appointed Cattle Australia regional rep

By BRODIE EVERIST

SUMMER READING: Pizzini Wines’ Natalie Pizzini shares her amazing family story in the latest edition of North East Living, which is out now.

PHOTO: Sandra Lee Photography

One family’s journey to Pizzini Wines in Whitfield

ROBERTO and Rosetta Pizzini were among the nearly 200,000 Italians to head to Australia in the 1950s.

They left their home in the Trentino region of northern Italy and settled in the Myrtleford area, where they worked together with Roberto’s brothers and their wives to build a new life.

They began as sharefarmers in the booming Australian tobacco industry, trying to acclimatise in their new environment, working hard and enduring basic conditions.

Eventually Roberto and Rosetta became known as Robert and Rose and keen to integrate, they learnt English and made friends in the community.

By the 70s the tobacco industry was facing challenging restrictions, the farms were split up and Robert and Rose settled in Whitfield, at the site of Pizzini Wines today.

Robert had always grown grapes as a hobby and one of the first things he did upon arriving in Whitfield was to plant a little vineyard and grow a grape variety from his homeland, making wine

for family and friends.

The couple’s sons Rinaldo and Alfredo (Fred) both got involved in the business and when Fred married Katrina they went on to establish the business we’re familiar with today.

Natalie Pizzini shares the amazing story of her family heritage, how the business grew and its focus today, in the summer edition of North East Living, which features Natalie on the cover.

We meet Bright-based pianist and composer Emili Rackemann, find out what drew three-time

AFL premiership player Steve Johnson back to North East Victoria, and learn about how the Into Our Hands Community Foundation is supporting important initiatives in the local community.

We also tour through a compact but contemporary Beechworth home, have a rest and refresh at All Saints Estate’s flagship restaurant KIN, and explore some High Country bushwalks.

It’s all in the latest edition of North East Living magazine, available for $7.95 from local newsagencies.

Police won’t take merry approach on holiday roads

By RYAN MALCOLM LOCAL police are calling on residents to act responsibly when taking to the roads this festive season, with the high-risk Christmas period already underway.

As of Monday some 283 lives have already been lost on Victorian roads this year, surpassing the 241 lives cut short in crashes for all of 2022, and with low range drink driving readings (.05 to .069) increasing by four per cent on the typical monthly average, officers are urging residents not to risk driving alcohol-affected during the holiday season.

Popular holiday hotspots across the North East will be targeted as part of police’s ‘Operation Roadwise’, an 18-day initiative which will extend into the New Year period to deter unsafe behaviours on roads across Victoria.

The initiative officially commenced last Friday, and will continue until 11.59pm on January 1.

ZERO TOLERANCE: Operation Roadwise will see police target North East holiday hotspots in an effort to curb drink driving behaviour over the Christmas and New Year period.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling As part of the operation, motorists are being urged to entirely separate drinking and driving, with the recent increase in low-level drink driving readings believed to suggest drivers are prepared to drink at end-of-year social functions before getting behind the wheel.

‘Low range’ drink driving offending carries a $577 fine and a six

month driving ban for those under 26 years old, while those fully licenced and above 26 will be sidelined for three months.

Road policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said those who choose to flout the road rules would be up for a costly Christmas, with penalties in the hundreds of dollars also applicable for those

speeding by more than 10kph, failing to wear a seatbelt, failing to obey traffic lights or using a mobile device while driving.

“We’re urging everyone to make road safety a priority during the festive period – the last place you want to end up this Christmas is in a hospital, or worse, as a result of road trauma,” he said.

“December is particularly highrisk on our roads – we tend to see an increase in social functions and events that increases the likelihood of impaired driving, as well as increased traffic as people head away to regional areas.

“We will be focused heavily on impaired drivers, so expect to be tested, and be prepared to face the consequences if you’re caught over the limit – the penalties are significant, and we make no apologies for enforcing the rules – it could save someone’s life.

“It’s been a horror year on our roads and we will be doing all we can to stop this needless loss of life.”

MUDGEGONGA cattle farmer Loretta Carroll has been appointed a Regional Consultative Committee (RCC) member for Cattle Australia, a national peak body for the grass-fed cattle industry, following the body’s annual general meeting in Albury last month.

According to Cattle Australia, Ms Carroll was appointed to the position as the only eligible nominee for sub-region four, covering the eastern half of Victoria.

Cattle Australia is governed by a board consisting of seven democratically elected directors, while the RCC consists of 15 elected levy-paying producers from 15 sub-regions across Australia.

The RCC also consists of eight state farming organisation representatives, appointed by their respective organisation.

Ms Carroll said one of Cattle Australia’s key features is its new governance structure, ensuring the board and members of the RCC are democratically elected by grassroots producers.

“I have been involved in the process of establishing a new democratic representative organisation to serve all grass-fed cattle producers since 2016 and finally we have an organisation equipped to represent all levy-paying cattle producers,” Ms Carroll said.

“The next step is to encourage cattle producers across Australia to join up so Cattle Australia can have a strong voice from its members.

“This was the reasoning behind having the 15 regional representatives – to provide policy advice and direction to the board from the grassroots producers.

“We now need to come up with ways to access and have the important conversations with cattle producers and work together the deliver on their concerns.”

Ms Carroll particularly highlighted Cattle Australia calling for a review of the Meat and Livestock Australia’s CN30 (Carbon Neutral) framework.

According to Ms Carroll, intestinal methane emissions from beef production are part of a natural short-term cycle and have a different impact on global temperature rise than emissions from fossil fuels.

Earlier this year Cattle Australia chair David Foote said it made sense to focus on eliminating industry’s warming impact rather than a simplified CO2 equivalent, like the MLA’s CN30 framework.

“Cattle Australia members are seeking recognition that their emissions are part of a natural cycle, which is vastly different to fossil fuel emissions,” he said.

“Methane has a short lifespan and breaks down into CO2 which the beef industry has the ability to capture through pasture photosynthesis.

“International efforts are focused on limiting warming – we should be doing the same.”

Page 20 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

www.myrtlefordtimes.com.au

School Principal 2023 REPORT YO U R

WANDILIGONG PRIMARY SCHOOL

BOB CLYNE

As the school year comes to a close, I am delighted to reflect on the incredible journey we have had at Wandiligong Primary School. It has been a year filled with growth, learning, and community spirit that has truly made a positive impact on our students. First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to our amazing students. Your enthusiasm, curiosity, and hard work have made this school year truly exceptional. Each day, I witness your dedication to learning and your eagerness to explore new horizons. Thank you for making Wandiligong Primary School a vibrant and dynamic place to be. A heartfelt thank you also goes out to our dedicated and passionate staff. Their commitment to fostering a nurturing learning environment is unparalleled. Their creativity and tireless efforts have not only enriched our curriculum but have also inspired students to reach new heights. We are fortunate to have such a talented and caring group of educators shaping the future of our students. I extend my appreciation to the supportive parents who play a crucial role in their child’s education. Your involvement, encouragement, and partnership with the school contribute significantly to the success of our students. Together, we form a strong foundation for our children’s growth and development. Wandiligong Primary School is truly blessed with a wonderful community that rallies behind us. The support we receive from the local community is invaluable, and we are grateful for the collaborative efforts that make our school thrive. Your involvement, whether through attending events, volunteering, or simply being engaged, enhances the overall educational experience for our students. This year has been marked by a myriad of exciting activities and accomplishments. Our students have not only excelled academically but have also actively contributed to the community. From tree planting initiatives to captivating performances, from writing letters to politicians to creating stunning works of art, our students have showcased their talents and made a positive impact. Additionally, our students have enjoyed enriching experiences such as camps and adventure activities that have not only provided a break from the traditional classroom setting but have also fostered teamwork, resilience, and a sense of adventure. As we bid farewell to another successful school year, let us celebrate the achievements, growth, and shared experiences that have shaped Wandiligong Primary School. I look forward to building on this foundation and continuing our journey of excellence in education with the unwavering support of our incredible community. Thank you for a remarkable year, and I wish everyone a restful and joyful holiday season.

Sincerely, Bob Clyne Principal, Wandiligong Primary School

BRIGHT P-12 COLLEGE Cnr Park Street and Bakers Gully Road, Bright Vic 3741 Phone (03) 5755 1166 www.brightp12.vic.edu.au

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS IN VICTORIA 2024

LEIGH CORCORAN ACTING PRINCIPAL

As the Acting Principal of St Mary’s, it is with great pleasure that I extend a warm welcome to our new Foundation students joining us in 2024. This year, we bid farewell to our Year 6 students, wishing them all the best as they transition to secondary school.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated staff, who continually strive for excellence in teaching and learning, ensuring the best outcomes for our students.

St Mary’s NAPLAN results continue to excel, scoring well above the state average. This success is a testament to the dedication and expert knowledge of our teachers in delivering explicit instruction in reading, writing, spelling, and mathematics. We believe that a strong foundation in these areas enables students to explore other areas of the curriculum through directed discovery.

This year, St Mary’s Primary School celebrated ‘100 Years of Education’ in Myrtleford. The staff at St Mary’s are very proud of all that has been achieved over the years. Our teachers are committed to providing excellent teaching, catering to the needs of each and every student.

Our students have shone brightly in the arts, winning accolades in the Mary Mackillop Art Competition. Our music program and choir achieved great success at the Albury Eisteddfod and produced an enjoyable ‘Very Aussie Christmas’ concert, both of which are commendable achievements.

Through the Languages program, students enjoyed engaging in Italian performances and the Italian Day feast, both cultural highlights of the year. In sports, our students have excelled, qualifying for division, regional, and state-level events in various disciplines.

Our staff’s support for students with diverse learning needs has been remarkable, fostering an environment where every child can achieve their full potential. Our aim is to deliver a curriculum to each student in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Our commitment to the school charisms of compassion, hospitality, and social justice has been evident through successful initiatives like the Social Justice Caritas fundraiser, aiding those less fortunate around the globe. Respect and dignity for all is paramount, especially during such devastating times for many countries worldwide. It’s crucial for our children to understand different perspectives, listen, and show empathy. These skills have been instilled in our Year Six students, who live by the value of always being kind.

As we close this year, I thank our families for their unwavering support and trust. Together, we have navigated challenges and triumphs, particularly during our principal Kitty Hancock’s absence. The school continues to focus on our mission, a testament to our amazing staff’s steadfast dedication to our students. We send our best wishes to Kitty for a speedy recovery. Your presence is greatly missed, and we eagerly anticipate your return.

On behalf of all staff, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Enjoy the festive season with your loved ones, and here’s to a fantastic 2024!

Acting Principal Leigh Corcoran

ST MARY’S PRIMARY SCHOOL 43 O’Donnell Avenue Myrtleford Phone (03) 5752 1808

DATE

HOLIDAY

New Year’s Day

Mon, 1 Jan 2024

Australia Day

Fri, 26 Jan 2024

Labour Day

Mon, 11 Mar 2024

Good Friday

Fri, 29 Mar 2024

Holy Saturday

Sat, 30 Mar 2024

Easter

Sun, 31 Mar 2024

Easter Monday

Mon, 1 Apr 2024

Anzac Day

Thur, 25 Apr 2024

King’s Birthday

Mon, 10 Jun 2024

AFL Grand Final Friday

Subject to AFL schedule

Melbourne Cup Day

Tue, 5 Nov 2024 *

* It is noted that senior year has a

Christmas Day

Wed, 25 Dec 2024

˾ȇǣɀǝǣȇǕ ƳƏɎƺ ƳǣǔǔƺȸƺȇɎ ǣȇ Ɏƺȸȅ ‫׭‬٫

Boxing Day

Thur, 26 Dec 2024

SCHOOL TERMS IN VICTORIA 2024

Term 1

29 January - 28 March

Term 2

15 April - 28 June

Term 3

15 July - 20 September

Term 4*

7 October - 20 December

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Page 21

www.alpineobserver.com.au

School Principal 2023 REPORT YO U R

ZLATKO PEAR

PAULINE McPHERSON We have had a great year at Whorouly Primary School with five new Foundation students beginning their education at our school and shortly we will farewell our two fantastic Year 6 school leaders leaving as confident and responsible young people.

Our dedicated teachers and support staff, ensure we provide small class sizes for our literacy and numeracy programs to enhance learning for every child. Our specialist programs of Italian, Art, Library and Music/ Science are important features of our school’s curriculum.

Our classroom programs have been enriched through camps and excursions to Canberra, and Fifteen Mile Creek and the junior class had their own special evening at school. Our extra-curricular activities such as the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program, Breakfast Club, STEAM Challenges, the Bluearth and swimming programs have been very important. Access to the Sporting Schools Funds has given our students the opportunity to receive expert coaching in tennis, AFL, netball and bike education.

Highlights include our annual Well Being Day, the Marmungan Athletics Sports, our Book Week dress up day and the Cluster

WHOROULY PRIMARY SCHOOL 18 Church Street, Whorouly Phone (03) 5727 1363

days. Our family nights included an SAKG welcome, a family STEAM Challenge and Library After Dark which are always supported by our families. We finished the year with a wonderful whole school Magical Mystery Tour musical. An extremely busy year!

We have wonderfully hardworking parents and carers whose fundraising efforts allow us to provide many programs and resources and our dedicated School Council ensure our school can provide the best opportunities for our students.

This year we commence our Outside School Hours Care Program providing care before and after school and a holiday program. This has been an important addition to our school to help support our families.

We also work closely with the Ovens Learning Community and the Whorouly Preschool to ensure we have a quality transition program and we look forward to our new Foundation students starting in 2024.

I would like to thank everyone who has supported our school in 2023, from the Whorouly community to the very many local businesses who donate to the school. I wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas break.

Pauline McPherson

www.whorouly.vic.edu.au/

JEAN OLLEY As the 2023 academic year ends, it is a time of reflection and celebration for Bright P-12 College. Situated in the heart of our community, our school embraces a holistic approach to education, catering to students from Prep to Year 12. With a strong emphasis on valuing every child, fostering wellbeing, and providing a dynamic teaching and learning program, along with a wide range of extra-curricular activities, we have had a truly remarkable year.

At Bright P-12 College, we understand the importance of wellbeing as an essential component of education. By highlighting the physical, social, and emotional wellbeing of our students, we create a supportive and inclusive environment where they can thrive.

Our success is a result of the collaborative efforts of our entire school community.

Parents, teachers, and students work together to create a nurturing and stimulating atmosphere that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for learning.

I continue to be proud of our school and community. I am proud of our student’s resilience, ability to remain engaged in school and their learning. I am proud of our families for their patience and hard work supporting the school and their children. I am also very proud of our teachers and support staff for their professionalism and their dedication to our students. We are very fortunate to have such a great team looking after our children and helping them to achieve their best.

At Myrtleford P12 College our core responsibility will always be to improve the reading, writing and mathematics skills of our students. We also understand the role we as a school play in providing a safe and supportive environment for our students. I am proud that our school is an inclusive school where all students feel welcome, where they know that people will care about them in an environment where they can experience success, a sense of belonging and acceptance.

We are very fortunate to have excellent education options in Myrtleford. NAPLAN and VCE results show that students who stay in our community, attending local schools with small class sizes, taught by teachers who know them and their families well, achieve better results.

We are excited about 2024 and are looking forward to moving into our new buildings. I would like to thank members of the College Council, the Parents Club and the local services clubs for their support of our students. I would like to acknowledge our partnership with the local schools which provides all students in Myrtleford with access to a wide range of choices and a high quality education. Please have a safe Christmas holiday period.

MYRTLEFORD P-12 COLLEGE Prince St Myrtleford Phone (03) 5752 1174

www.myrtlefordp12.vic.edu.au

CATH WATTER Through open communication and strong partnerships, we ensure that every child receives the support they need to excel academically, socially, physically, and emotionally.I am incredibly proud of our school and the achievements we have accomplished this year.

Our students, from Prep to Year 12, have consistently impressed us with their individual and collective accomplishments both in and out of the school. Our dedicated staff have contributed to the school’s culture through the development of an instructional model that enhances student outcomes.

Additionally, we remain committed to our journey as a sustainable school, emphasising environmental responsibility.

On behalf of everyone at Bright P-12 College, I extend warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May the holiday season bring joy, relaxation, and rejuvenation to all. We look forward to continuing our journey of growth and success in the 2024.

WANDILIONG PRIMARY SCHOOL 119 School Rd, Wandiliong, Vic 3690 Phone (03) 5755 1026 www3.smmyrtleford.catholic.edu.au

Marian College extends to all Myrtleford Times readers the blessings of the Christmas season and our very best wishes for the coming year. It is with a strong sense of satisfaction that our College community can reflect positively upon the challenges we have all met and the achievements we have all shared over the past year. It is with a feeling of genuine anticipation we are all looking ahead to 2024.I want to express my special thanks to the staff of Marian College who, working in partnership with our students and their families, have shown outstanding commitment to bring the best opportunities to our students again this year. To the many community groups who continue to support Marian College in all areas of College life, thank you. Father Tony Shallue and our Advisory council, chaired by Damien Rossato have again proved a great source of encouragement and guidance to the school and for this we are greatly appreciative.Our Year 12 class of 2023 leaves us with all our best wishes, and we look forward to welcoming our Year 7 classes for next year - we value above all else the ongoing support for our school from families entrusting their child’s education to us.Marian also farewells two highly valued staff members - Heather Boyle who has made an outstanding contribution over many years as an Education Support Officer - thankyou Heather! - and Deputy Principal Anthony Batters who has made a lasting, positive impact upon the leadership of the College especially in learning for our students. Congratulations upon your new appointment, Anthony!Work soon begins on the $2.3 million Wellbeing Centre that will become the new hub for all the student support services Marian College already offers. Due to open before the end of next year the Centre will become an important addition to the College’s excellent facilities. Marian College continues to grow and evolve to meet student needs, now and into the future.

MARIAN COLLEGE Prince Street Myrtleford Phone (03) 5752 1596

www.mcm.vic.edu.au

Page 22 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

www.myrtlefordtimes.com.au

(0!0x 0« ‫בא׎א | ׏א ٳ ד׏‬

Family home in Waldara with immaculate shedding LOCATED in Talgai Drive, Waldara, set on a 6365m2 allotment, this property boasts a newly renovated brick veneer home with immaculate new shedding.

This four-bedroom home comprises a master bedroom featuring ensuite with separate shower and toilet along with BIR, and the three additional bedȸȒȒȅɀ Əȸƺ ƏǼǼ ˡɎɎƺƳ ɯǣɎǝ X«‫ټ‬ɀ ƏȇƳ ƬƺǣǼing fans.

The kitchen has been newly renovated featuring new cabinetry, stone benchtops, walk in pantry, elec oven

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The open plan kitchen living/dining space is a great size along with separate lounge/kids room, and the home also ǝƏɀ ȇƺɯ ˢȒȒȸ ƬȒɮƺȸǣȇǕɀً ȇƺɯ ȵƏǣȇɎǣȇǕ and new electrical lights/ceiling fans.

The main bathroom has separate shower and bath with second WC. Step outside and entertain your ǕɖƺɀɎɀ ɯǣɎǝ Əȇ ƏǼǔȸƺɀƬȒ ƏȸƺƏ ƏǼǼ ˡȇǣɀǝƺƳ with concrete overlooking manicured lawns.

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perfect for someone needing the extra space, still within close proximity to áƏȇǕƏȸƏɎɎƏ‫ټ‬ɀ ! (ِ Lawns are watered with in ground ǣȸȸǣǕƏɎǣȒȇ ƏǼǼ ǔƺƳ ǔȸȒȅ Ɏǝƺ ȵȸȒȵƺȸɎɵ‫ټ‬ɀ bore.

If shedding is important to you then look no further, as this property has your storage needs covered with a double garage shed (6mx8.7m) and large workshop storage shed (12mx18m) perfect for the boat, caravan etc. Áǝƺ ǼƏȸǕƺ ɀǝƺƳ ǣɀ ƏǼɀȒ ˡɎɎƺƳ ɯǣɎǝ Əȇ ǣȅȵȸƺɀɀǣɮƺ ˡȸƺȵǼƏƬƺٖȵǣɿɿƏ Ȓɮƺȇِ

Be part of making the festive season not just better, but brighter.

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AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 244248.

Supporting Albury Wodonga Regional FoodShare and Carevan Albury.

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Agent

| Nutrien Harcourts

Phone

| 5722 9444

Price

| $1,135,000

Location | 17 Talgai Drive, Waldara

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Page 23

www.alpineobserver.com.au

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THIS unique Hamilton Park lifestyle property occupying an elevated position capturing uninterrupted mountain views could be yours..

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The central kitchen has been updated with electric cooktop, dishwasher and a stainless wall oven. Áǝƺ ȵȸǣȅƏȸɵ ƫƺƳȸȒȒȅ Ȓǔǔƺȸɀ Ə ȸƺȇȒɮƏɎ‫ٮ‬ ed ensuite and a walk in robe, whilst two further guestrooms are generous in size serviced by the central bathroom.

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Agent

| Nutrien Harcourts

Phone

| 5722 9444

Price

| $805,000

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Page 24 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

www.myrtlefordtimes.com.au

VOLVO XC60, PLENTY TO SAY . . . MOSTLY GOOD

Ŷ LUXURY ITEM: The refreshed Volvo XC60 continues to hold its place high in the mid-size premium SUV market

By DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring WHAT’S in a name?

Plenty for Volvo, the SinoSwedish car maker with its new mid-size luxury SUV, the XC60, tagged with a string of descriptors to separate each model from one another. Take, for example our test vehicle, the Volvo XC60 Ultimate B5 Bright: phew!

And that mouthful comes without mentioning vital specifications such as the powertrain – in this case two-litre turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine, plus eight-speed automatic transmission and allwheel drive.

‘Ultimate’ relates to the trim level, B5 to the engine, a turbocharged petrol motor enhanced by a standard 48V mild hybrid system to achieve higher fuel economy and lower emissions, while ‘Bright’ (or ‘Dark’) refers to core design elements.

While Volvo is now owned

by Geely Automobile, a major automotive brand based in China, the XC60 exhibits sleek Scandinavian styling, efficient four-cylinder engines and quality cabin ambiance.

Range-topping Ultimate trim gets matrix LED headlights, 20in alloy wheels, adaptive dampers, air suspension, a head-up display, a powered passenger’s seat, power-folding rear headrests and a panoramic roof.

While Volvo was initially slow to catch up, a move to a longer five-year warranty and fixedprice servicing puts the XC60 on a par with the opposition.

STYLING Apart from the Volvo front grille and Thor’s Hammer headlamp display, the XC60 Ultimate is pretty much out of the standard premium SUV catalogue design-wise.

For example, the vehicle shows off pleasing, if not striking, dimensions from all directions.

The Bright theme of the test vehicle is standard, keeping the same exterior elements as the core model while the Dark theme, offered at no extra cost, gives new Volvo vehicles a sportier appearance inspired by the former R-Design model by replacing the chrome accents with black elements and making way for a more aggressive stance.

INTERIOR With its ‘driftwood décor’ inlay inspired by the natural forces of water, wind and waves, the XC60 is a genuine fiveseater, with optional Nappa leather accented front seats including seat ventilation and optional ten-point massage.

A panoramic sun roof allows natural light to flood in, creating a feeling of space for everyone in the cabin.

A word about the gearshift.

Situated on the centre console it’s hard to ignore this genuine work of art.

A product of Swedish crystal glass manufacturer Orrefors, according to Volvo, it’s all about capturing light to produce a warm feeling for the user more used to freezing weather conditions.

Verdict: tactile and easy to operate, it also works well in the Aussie sub-tropical environment.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS Since 2013, Volvo Cars petrol and diesel engines for most markets around the world have been made at their Skövde, Sweden, facility.

Asian-market Volvo cars have had their engines produced at the Zhangjiakou, China, plant since 2016.

The latter is the case for the XC60 in Australia with a 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 183 kW of peak power at 5400 rpm and 350 Nm of torque at 1800 rpm via an eight-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels.

SAFETY Volvo has built its brand on being a leader in vehicle safety – it developed the three-point lap/sash seat belt and shared it around, for example - so it’s no surprise that XC60 safety is five stars.

Features include assisted cruise control, auto braking and parking, lane assist, blind spot alert and rear parking camera.

A head-up display delivers speed, turn-by-turn navigation, and more.

The brightness of the display adapts automatically to light conditions and can be set to suit personal preferences.

DRIVING Settling in to any of the five seats on offer in the Volvo XC60 can be achieved with the

minimum of fuss, none requiring a tall step up as in some SUVs. Shoulder space and leg room also are up in class.

Firing the engine requires a turn of a centre-console situated switch, and it’s the same process for shutting it down.

It’s a repeat to shut off the motor.

Typically, of a Volvo, the XC60 offers comfortable, quiet and smooth riding, from the stop / start city commute to motorway cruising.

The mild hybrid system unnoticeably doing its bit for added performance.

Expect the XC60 Ultimate B5 Bright MHEV to use close to 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres of premium unleaded petrol in the combined urban / highway cycle while putting out 174g of carbon dioxide.

The car’s active chassis with air suspension constantly adjusts ride height and adapts the shock absorbers to enhance stability and deliver a dynamic and refined ride with maximum energy efficiency at high speeds.

And on demand, Off Road mode can increase ground clearance.

Steering, especially, provided positive feedback, while braking – ventilated disc front and rear - chipped in with the benefit of ‘B’ mode, harnessing engine braking to feed off kinetic energy produced when the foot is off the brake.

Additionally, creep feature can help at low speed, for example in traffic queues or car parks.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE: VOLVO XC60 PLUS B5: $72,990 VOLVO XC60 ULTIMATE B5 BRIGHT: $79,990 VOLVO XC60 ULTIMATE B6 DARK: $86,990 VOLVO XC60 ULTIMATE T8 RECHARGE PLUG-IN HYBRID: $101,990 NOTE: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Volvo dealer for drive-away prices.

When active, the car moves slowly without use of the accelerator pedal.

SUMMARY While the XC60 is well advanced with present-day automotive technology, it’s worth remembering that Volvo aims to go fully electric in Australia by 2026, four years before it does in the rest of the world.

While the award-winning luxury mid-size SUV deserves a look now, it may be worth waiting to greet the new era.

RATINGS Looks: 8/10 Performance: 6/10 Safety: 7/10 Thirst: 6/10 Practicality: 7/10 Comfort: 8/10 Tech: 7/10 Value: 7/10 SPECIFICATIONS (Volvo XC60 Ultimate B5 Bright 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder petrol, 8sp automatic, AWD SUV)

ENGINE: Capacity: 1.969 litres Configuration: Four cylinders inline Maximum Power: 183 kW @ 5400 rpm Maximum Torque: 350 Nm @ 1800 rpm Fuel Type: Premium unleaded petrol Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 7.6 L/100km Emissions CO2: 174 g/km DRIVELINE: Eight-speed automatic, allwheel drive DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES: Length: 4708 mm Wheelbase: 2865 mm Width: 1902 mm Height: 1653 mm Turning Circle: 11.4 metres Kerb Mass: 1830 kg Fuel Tank Capacity: 71 litres STANDARD WARRANTY: Five years / unlimited kilometres

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Wangaratta & District Cricket Association 2023/24 season

SCOREBOARD: Saturday, December 16

WANGARATTA MAGPIES DEF BY ROVERS UNITED BRUCK

YARRAWONGA MULWALA DEF BENALLA BUSHRANGERS

BEECHWORTH WANDERERS DEF BY OVENS VALLEY UNITED

CITY COLTS DEF DELATITE

ROVERS UNITED BRUCK 1ST INNINGS Jez Rigoni run out: Frazer Dent..................................37 Bailey Dale c: Zac Guilfoyle b: Fraser Ellis .................27 Josh O’Donohue lbw: Frazer Dent .............................10 Jacob Beattie c: Jack Davies b: Thomas Clayton .....20 Jacob Schonafinger b: Frazer Dent .............................6 Paddy McNamara (c) run out: Fraser Ellis .................19 Josh Ansell c: Callum Honey b: Frazer Dent..............16 Jonathan Hyde run out: Fraser Ellis, Nic Bonwick ...20 Harry Jones not out .................................................. 13* Connor Dennis c: Nicholas Pell b: Fraser Ellis .............2 Matthew Winter b: Thomas Clayton ............................2 Extras .............................................................................7 Total ....................................................................10 / 179 Overs ...........................................................................40 FOW: 1-66 Bailey Dale, 2-67 Joel Haddrick, 3-98 Jacob Beattie, 4-102 Josh O’Donohue, 5-110 Jacob Schonafinger, 6-134 Josh Ansell, 7-151 Paddy McNamara, 8-171 Jonathan Hyde, 9-174 Connor Dennis, 10-179 Matthew Winter.

Bowling: Matt Gathercole 8/0/32/0, Thomas Clayton 8/1/45/2, Fraser Ellis/8/1/25/2, Zac Guilfoyle 8/0/36/0, Frazer Dent 8/0/37/3.

YARRAWONGA MULWALA 1ST INNINGS Reid Clarke b: Charlie Bull ............................................2 Ben McDonald c: Gary Priest b: Conor Brodie ..........12 Fill-in lbw: Ross Cavill .................................................35 Brock McCabe b: Priyank Chohan .............................11 Harrison Wheeler c: M Honman b: M Wheelens........43 Adam Dodd not out .................................................. 57* Angus McMillan (c) not out ......................................... 8* Angus Heslin............................................................ DNB James Irvine (vc) .................................................... DNB Van Kreeck .............................................................. DNB Matt McCabe ........................................................... DNB Extras ...........................................................................10 Total ......................................................................5 / 178 Overs ...........................................................................40 FOW: 1-3 Reid Clarke, 2-15 Ben McDonald, 3-43 Brock McCabe, 4-74 Player, 5-127 Harrison Wheeler.

Bowling: Conor Brodie 8/1/29/1, Charlie Bull 7/0/30/1, Mitchell Wheelens 8/1/48/1, Priyank Chohan 7/4/9/1, Daniel Brew 5/0/27/0, George Lithgow 1/0/11/0, Ross Cavill 4/1/20/1.

BEECHWORTH WANDERERS 1ST INNINGS Clancy Ellett c: S Piazza b: Cooper Thomason..........18 Kayde Surrey c: Gurjot Gosal b: James Neary ..........37 Campbell Fendyk lbw: Gurjot Gosal ..........................56 Brenton Surrey (c) c: N Impink b: Glenn White .........23 Gareth Taylor c: C Thomason b: Samuel Piazza .........1 Lewis Richards c: Conner Forde b: Glenn White .........3 Richard Worcester b: Samuel Piazza ...........................5 Timothy Cogger c: Seamus Phillips b: Glenn White ........3 Henry Scalzo not out .................................................. 5* Dean Fitzpatrick b: Cooper Thomason .......................3 Michael White run out: Nicholas Impink .....................2 Extras ...........................................................................11 Total ....................................................................10 / 167 Overs ...........................................................................40 FOW: 1-33 Clancy Ellett, 2-106 Kayde Surrey, 3-142 Campbell Fendyk, 4-144 Brenton Surrey, 5-148 Gareth Taylor, 6-148 Lewis Richards, 7-157 Richard Worcester, 8-157 Timothy Cogger, 9-163 Dean Fitzpatrick, 10-167 Michael White.

Bowling: Cooper Thomason 6/0/30/2, Gurjot Gosal 8/2/26/1, Samuel Piazza 8/0/34/2, Conner Forde 8/1/34/0, James Neary 5/0/20/1, Glenn White 5/0/20/3.

DELATITE 1ST INNINGS Nick Scales c: Thomas Moore b: Tyler Nanson ...........4 Gregor Fraser lbw: Kent Braden .................................22 Alec Ritchie c: Jed Marek b: Kent Braden ..................41 Lachlan Scales c: ? b: Archie Crispin ..........................49 Richy Jacob Philip c: B Feldtmann b: M Lister ............4 Ben Martin not out .................................................... 22* Trent Berry c: Jessie Smith b: Archie Crispin ..............5 Mitchell Purcell b: Josh Nanson...................................1 Sam Bell not out ......................................................... 5* Michael Burrows .................................................... DNB Joe Kelleher ............................................................ DNB Extras .............................................................................9 Total ......................................................................7 / 157 Overs ...........................................................................40 FOW: 1-16 Nick Scales, 2-61 Gregor Fraser, 3-106 Alec Ritchie, 4-111 Richy Jacob Philip, 5-126 Lachlan Scales, 6-140 Trent Berry, 7-143 Mitchell Purcell.

Bowling: Josh Nanson 7/0/27/1, Tyler Nanson 5/0/19/1, Jed Marek 4/1/9/0, Archie Crispin 8/0/32/2, Matthew Lister 8/2/25/1, Kent Braden 8/2/42/2.

WANGARATTA MAGPIES 1ST INNINGS Cooper Matheson c: J Schonafinger b: M Winter......44 Nicholas Pell run out: Matthew Winter........................4 Jack Davies (c) run out: Jonathan Hyde ...................16 Fraser Ellis c: Connor Dennis b: Matthew Winter ......19 Nic Bonwick c&b: Jez Rigoni ........................................2 Ryan Malcolm b: Matthew Winter ..............................11 Callum Honey b: Jacob Schonafinger .........................1 Frazer Dent not out ................................................... 17* Zac Guilfoyle not out .................................................. 3* Thomas Clayton ...................................................... DNB Matt Gathercole ...................................................... DNB Extras ...........................................................................15 Total ......................................................................7 / 132 Overs ...........................................................................40 FOW: 1-36 Nicholas Pell, 2-75 Jack Davies, 3-83 Cooper Matheson, 4-92 Nic Bonwick, 5-107 Fraser Ellis, 6-110 Callum Honey, 7-122 Ryan Malcolm.

Bowling: Harry Jones 7/1/34/0, Paddy McNamara (c) 6/0/16/0, Jacob Schonafinger 8/1/22/1, Josh Ansell 4/0/13/0, Jez Rigoni 8/2/16/1, Matthew Winter 7/0/23/3.

BENALLA BUSHRANGERS 1ST INNINGS Michael Honman b: Brock McCabe ...........................15 Priyank Chohan c: Reid Clarke b: James Irvine ..........5 James Carboon c: Matt McCabe b: Brock McCabe ...31 George Lithgow c: Reid Clarke b: Brock McCabe ........9 Ross Cavill b: Brock McCabe ......................................11 Daniel Brew c: Reid Clarke b: Matt McCabe ..............12 Gary Priest (c) not out............................................... 13* Charlie Bull b: Matt McCabe .........................................1 Lucas Ham lbw: Matt McCabe ......................................1 Susanka Gamage b: Matt McCabe .............................13 Conor Brodie c: Angus Heslin b: Van Kreeck .............13 Extras .............................................................................7 Total ....................................................................10 / 116 Overs ...........................................................................38 FOW: 1-9 Priyank Chohan, 2-32 Michael Honman, 3-61 George Lithgow, 4-66 James Carboon, 5-83 Ross Cavill, 6-87 Daniel Brew, 7-87 Charlie Bull, 8-87 Lucas Ham, 9-106 Susanka Gamage, 10-116 Conor Brodie.

Bowling: James Irvine (vc) 8/0/32/1, Angus Heslin 5/0/11/0, Brock McCabe 8/0/26/4, Angus McMillan (c) 6/3/11/0, Van Kreeck 3/0/16/1, Matt McCabe 8/1/20/4.

OVENS VALLEY UNITED 1ST INNINGS Seamus Phillips c: L Richards b: C Fendyk ................53 Gurjot Gosal c: H Scalzo b: Richard Worcester..........44 Kane Fitzpatrick not out ........................................... 43* Dylan Bursill c: Gareth Taylor b: Henry Scalzo ..........26 Cooper Thomason c: K Surrey b: Henry Scalzo ........11 Conner Forde not out ................................................. 0* Thomas Chettleburgh ............................................ DNB Nicholas Impink ...................................................... DNB James Neary ........................................................... DNB Samuel Piazza ......................................................... DNB Glenn White ............................................................. DNB Extras ...........................................................................18 Total ......................................................................4 / 195 Overs ............................................................................40 FOW: 1-95 Gurjot Gosal, 2-124 Seamus Phillips, 3-172 Dylan Bursill, 4-192 Cooper Thomason.

Bowling: Gareth Taylor 8/1/25/0, Richard Worcester 8/1/28/1, Timothy Cogger 4/0/30/0, Dean Fitzpatrick 2/0/9/0, Brenton Surrey 2/0/20/0, Campbell Fendyk 7/0/27/1, Clancy Ellett 5/0/34/0, Henry Scalzo 4/0/18/2.

CITY COLTS 1ST INNINGS Mitchell Giggins (c) c: ? b: Joe Kelleher .....................97 Aaron Thrum run out: Gregor Fraser .........................27 Ben Feldtmann b: Gregor Fraser................................10 Josh Nanson b: Joe Kelleher .....................................31 Kent Braden not out ................................................. 17* Tyler Nanson b: Joe Kelleher .......................................3 Jessie Smith not out ................................................. 20* Archie Crispin ......................................................... DNB Matthew Lister ........................................................ DNB Miles Lovett ............................................................. DNB Jed Marek ............................................................... DNB Extras ...........................................................................26 Total ......................................................................5 / 228 Overs ...........................................................................40 FOW: 1-84 Aaron Thrum, 2-139 Ben Feldtmann, 3-170 Mitchell Giggins, 4-188 Josh Nanson, 5-195 Tyler Nanson.

Bowling: Joe Kelleher 8/0/50/3, Sam Bell 2/0/16/0, Peter Scales 5/1/16/0, Mitchell Purcell 7/1/31/0, Gregor Fraser 8/0/39/1, Alec Ritchie 2/0/18/0, Michael Burrows 5/0/32/0, Richy Jacob Philip 3/0/20/0.

A RESERVE: Rovers United Bruck 8/119 Reid McNamara 27 Jordan Rufford-Sharpe 3/11 def by Wangaratta Magpies 10/147 Daniel Larkings 30 Mark Drage 6/10. Benalla Bushrangers 8/175 Simon Briggs 65 Andrew Dishot 2/34 def Yarrawonga Mulwala 9/156 Jyda House 50* Tyler Begnone 2/16. Ovens Valley United 10/178 Nicholas Bleeser 54 Baylee Morton 4/30 def Rutherglen United 9/129 Warwick Thompson 49 Nicholas Bleeser 4/27. B GRADE: Ovens Valley United 10/91 Richard Mapson 16 Jeremy Pope-Mercieca 4/27 def by Benalla Bushrangers 6/164 Stewart Mcleod 61* Corey Southern 3/21. Wangaratta Magpies 9/125 Zachary Wallace 54 David Radeski 3/7 Milawa 4/161 Russell Ferguson 48* Zachary Wallace 2/19.

Greta 7/196 Michael Barnard 48 Marcus Hargreaves 3/17 def Yarrawonga Mulwala 10/75 Geoffrey Montgomery 23 Aaron Kosch 4/9. Rutherglen United 8/94 Andrew Holmes 33* Chris Beatson 4/16 def by Beecgworth Wanderers 7/128 Rama Schultz 52* Matthew Battisson 3/31. City Colts 10/103 Tony Ormond 36 Mitchell Hill 4/19 def by Rovers United Bruck 8/179 Adriano Speziale 55 Connor Ormond 2/14. C GRADE: Yarrawonga Mulwala 3/284 Luke Buerckner 101* Paul O’Brien 1/18 def Gapsted 10/73 Peter Newton 41 Josh Bozzola 3/10. Beechworth Wanderers 7/180 def Benalla Bushrangers 9/155 Chris Nuck 50 Paul Ivery 3/51 Josh Heylbut 62 Kane Niklaus 4/10. UNDER 16: Benalla Bushrangers 4/99 def Greta/OVU 4/70.

Yarrawonga Mulwala 9/46 def by Beechworth Wanderers 7/93. City Colts 7/73 def Delatite 6/63. UNDER 14: Beechworth Wanderers 7/80 def by Benalla Bushrangers 4/99. Greta 10/33 def by Wangaratta Magpies 5/89. Rovers United Bruck Gold 3/87 def Rovers United Bruck 7/62. Yarrawonga Mulwala 2/87 def by Rutherglen United 3/94. Ovens Valley United 3/100 def City Colts 8/84. UNDER 12 GOLD: Benalla Bushrangers Green 4/88 def Benalla Bushrangers Red 8/50. Yarrawonga Mulwala Bulls 2/114 def Yarrawonga Mulwala Rams 8/74. City Colts White 5/24 def by Benalla Bushrangers 1/110. UNDER 12 BLUE: Beechworth Wanderers 4/103 def Rutherglen United 7/35. Ovens Valley United Black 7/54 def by Ovens Valley United Orange 4/134. City Colts Blue 7/37 def by Greta 2/105. Wangaratta Magpies White 2/88 def Wangaratta Magpies Black 5/83.

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SPORT

Bright bowlers come home strong

NUMBERS GROWING: The Saints will have a few new faces in the ranks for the 2024 season.

PHOTO: Janet Watt

Saints’ super signings

New recruits firing g for Myrtleford y during gp pre-season training g THE off-season has been a productive one for Myrtleford’s footballers, with the club announcing a slew of new signings to the Saints.

In addition to Frazer Dale, Lachie Murphy-Dale and Riley Calvene signing back in September, the Saints have picked up five strong campaigners to help boost Myrtleford up the O&M ladder.

Bowen Calogero (Shepparton Swans), Diesel Batey (Shepparton Swans), Xavier Cannizzaro (Whorouly), Lachlan Plummer (Hobart), and Jaxon East (Wanderers) will all suit up in the red, white and black in 2024.

Senior coach Craig Millar said he was eager to have experienced

players around the relatively young group.

“We were pretty honest in where we needed to be, we had some gaps in our list,” he said.

“We’re still pretty young, but we were looking for some speed, we were looking for really good ball use, and we were able to get that.

“While we’ve got some really good and positive growth happening from a lot of our young players, exposing them to the level last year was really important for us, because they’re going to be critical players for us moving into this year.

“We just needed to top up with some players who have already played at an equivalent level, and

A GREAT DAY: Amelie Thompson holds Daisy Pearce’s signed footy boots from the 2022 preliminary final, a real treat for Wandiligong Primary School students.

we’ve been able to do that.

“Now we’ve got to keep getting to work.”

The Saints have been hitting the track hard since the 2023 season ended, with the new signings blending seamlessly with the established list.

“Like most clubs, we’ve got extensive recruiting networks, we’re always trying to find the best talent,” he said.

“Lachie (Plummer) and Jaxon (East) are two young players who are going to live in town, and that’s really important – they’ve obviously played footy at higher levels prior and to live in town and be a part of our community is really important.

“We’ll keep our training squad down in Melbourne, we’ve got a few players now in Wangaratta.

“We’ve been getting between 30 and 40 for most sessions, so that’s been really satisfying.

“It’s important we’ve got a good representation in our community, but we’re not naïve enough to think we don’t need satellite training venues to cater to the players who can’t always get to training.”

Pre-Christmas training at McNamara Reserve will continue through to the end of this week, with players and their families to enjoy the Christmas break before training resumes in earnest on January 16.

BALL UP: Mila Armstrong get splay underway.

THE weekend saw a pleasing result for Bright’s A3 bowlers, who took a Bright 104/16 Wodonga 58/2 win over the ever-competitive Wodonga to sit sixth on the ladder.

Patrick O’Shea’s team lead of Elaine O’Shea, second Bev Griffith, and third Steve Jenvey won 37/15, Ernie Vanderwert’s team with lead Jerry Wilson, second Trevor Poyner, and third Martin Kupferle won 26/12, while Cheryl Raduczic’s team of lead Gary Woods, second Gilbert Griffith, and third Peter Raduczic took the win 26/13.

Bill Hayes’ team of lead Libby Barker, second Julie Ellis, and third Ryan Kupferle went down 15/18.

The B1 team travelled to Moira, and unfortunately went down Bright 28 to Moira 84.

Greg Pepyat’s team of lead Kelvin ‘Jock’ Arthur, second Terry McCaw, and third Ken Lewis lost 9/24, And Linda Hayes’ team of lead William Connolly, second Bruce Neilson, and third Wayne Curtis went down 11/28.

Otto Kupferle’s team with lead Maureen MacGill, second loan player, and third Linda Vanderwert lost 8/32.

The Annual Community Bowls competition is due to start on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at 7pm.

If you are a regular player in this event, or have not played before but would like to try the game of bowls, come along and have some fun.

You can either enter a team of four or come along and help make up a team.

Open to all ages, the competition is run over an eight week period.

For further information contact community bowls coordinator Ernie Vanderwert on 0429 868 947, or email ernie.vanderwert1604@ gmail.com.

BOOTED: Elroy Dennis unloads with his right foot.

Wandi students keen to follow in Daisy’s bootsteps

By CRAIG THOMPSON FORMER Melbourne AFLW triple B&F winner and premiership captain, footy commentator and recently appointed West Coast Eagles AFLW coach Daisy Pearce has big boots to fill, but current students from her former primary school have now seen those flag-winning boots close up.

Last Wednesday, current Murray Bushrangers AFLW under 18 representative squad member Amelie

Thompson went back to her and Pearce’s shared old primary school in Wandiligong to conduct a footy clinic.

Thompson had a special treat to show the students – signed footy boots that Pearce wore for the 2022 preliminary final en-route to her Melbourne AFLW team winning the premiership that year.

Pearce had presented her boots to Amelie for being “Player of the Academy” at a football academy run by former Alpine Lions AFLW

coach Craig Dent earlier in the year.

“I’ve been inspired by the path that Daisy has blazed in female footy and my ambition is to also make it to the highest level,” Thompson said.

“It’s fantastic that we both went to Wandi Primary.

“Hopefully, this clinic will inspire more Wandi students to play footy and dream big, just as a similar clinic run by Dent five years ago inspired me to commence playing.”

Thompson’s Wangaratta Rovers teammate, Mila Arm-

strong who helped run the clinic, said that she was impressed with the skills and determination of the primary schoolers.

“The main thing is to give it a go, no matter what your ability and there is now a complete pathway to the highest level for girls,” she said.

“There’s Auskick for the younger kids and higher age teams for both girls and boys to join where you will be taught skills and tactics.

“And it’s such a great fun game to play”.

Judging by the broad smiles and enthusiasm during the clinic, the Wandi pupils certainly agreed with that.

Wandi primary school teacher and Bright footballer Darcy Martin who also ran the clinic, said that there’s a range of footy opportunities for young people locally through Bright Auskick and the United Bright Football and Netball Club, and also regionally with clubs such as Myrtleford, Wangaratta Rovers, Dederang-Mount Beauty and others.

Both Thompson and Armstrong love playing for Wangaratta Rovers, which is the closest female football team for their under 17 age bracket.

The North-East Border region is also looking to introduce a female under 12 competition in 2025 to add to the existing under 14 and under 17 age levels.

Training has finished for 2023, but interested players should keep an eye on websites and social media for the 2024 training commencement dates.

www.alpineobserver.com.au

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Page 29

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LAST Saturday saw the Myrtleford A1 team take on the strong Wangaratta combination at Myrtleford with three key players missing from their line-up.

This was a big game for both clubs with Myrtleford sitting fourth and Wangaratta fifth on the ladder.

Myrtleford led all day in a convincing win with three of the four rinks helping to clinch a great victory 92 shots and 16 points to Wangaratta 69 shots and just 2 points.

The win puts Myrtleford 28 points clear of the fifth placed side with just four games to go after Christmas, before the finals commence on February 17.

Wally Dunstone, Marino Candusio, Les Brown and Mikey Clayton stayed strong to win 19/18, while Mary Tragardh skipped her team of Cheryl Lewis, Jill Bates and Graeme Piazza to a 24/19 victory.

The big win came on rink three with Jim Murtagh leading beautifully, supported by Adrian Villella, Greg Robbins and skipper Lance Symons romping home to a 34/7 win.

Rod Mitchell and his team were not disgraced, battling hard all day but going down 15/25.

The B1 team came up against the top side Moyhu at Moyhu and did a fantastic job on the carpet, only going down by eight shots.

The club has some very promising players developing rapidly through the lower grade, which bodes well for the future of the club.

Jeff Stagg’s team won 20 shots to 19 and he was ably supported by Graeme ‘Acky’ Attwood, Wayne Langdon and Noel Rowe.

Jon Dunell’s team went down 12/16 and Graham Barrington’s team also fought hard going down 22/27.

The B3 team travelled to Lavington who are second on the ladder and the challenge was beyond them, losing all three rinks.

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The final score was Lavington 79 shots and all 14 points to Myrtleford 42 shots.

The club had 66 happy people attend a wonderful Christmas break up at the Savoy Club on Sunday night.

While many players are looking forward to the Christmas break some players are bowling in the Christmas carnival at Bright, Rutherglen, and Yackandandah, to show support where possible for

those clubs that support our tournaments.

Saturday pennant recommences on Saturday, January 20, while the midweek pennant recommences on Tuesday, January 16.

Presentations for Myrtleford golfers LAST Thursday saw the Myrtleford Golf Club hold their end of year Christmas Ambrose, and present the awards to all golfers who had a terrific year on the course.

Saturday, December 16 CBE Electrical Stableford AMCR 71 AWCR 74 A grade winner: Jan Roseby (16) 37 pts. A grade runner up: Spider Hancock (16) 36pts c/b. B grade winner: Roger Humphris (19) 38 pts. B grade runner up: Warren Rowney (30) 38 pts.

Ball winners: C Piazza 36, C Shewell 36, J Harrington 35, B Carroll 35, D Rowe 35, T Batt 34, A Rockliff 34.

Foodworks NTPs - first: Kevin Kennedy, fourth second shot: Karl O’Shaughnessy, eighth: David Matthews, 14th: Craig Piazza.

Matthews Cleaning encouragement award: Karl O’Shaughnessy 26 pts.

Raffle winner: Andrew McKerral.

Thursday, December 14 CBE Electrical and Air Conditioning - Stableford AMCR 74 End of year Christmas Ambrose and presentations Ambrose winners: Sarah Deas, Liz Orton, Annie Wilson, Kaye McGuffie, (17.25) 52/34.75.

Ambrose runners up: Marnie Broz, Faye McLees, Helen Mummery, Kerry Newton, (14.25) 51/36.75.

NTPs – first: Sarah Deas, eighth: Kerry Newton, 14th: Kaye McGuffie.

Club champion and handicap champion: Marg Curtis.

Ian O’May singles knockout: Denise O’Donohue.

Julie Phillips 4BBB Shield: Marg Curtis, Helen Mummery.

Medal of Medals: Sarah Deas.

Birdies: Angela O’Shaughnessy.

Gobblers: Sarah Deas.

Putting champion: Jan Roseby.

Eclectic - gross full course: Angela O’Shaughnessy.

Most Improved Handicap: Annie Wilson.

Aggregate stroke winner: Jan Roseby.

Aggregate stableford winner: Barb Welch.

9 hole stableford: Marg Fitridge.

Wednesday, December 13 CBE Electrical Stableford AMCR 71 A grade winner: David Clark (16) 38 pts. A grade runner up: Evans Jones (29) 35 pts c/b.

Ball winners: B O’Donohue 35.

Foodworks NTPs - first: Pieter Veldman, fourth: Ian Wales, 14th: Ian Wales, 16th: David Clark.

Tuesday, December 12 CBE Electrical & Air Conditioning - Stroke AMCR 71 AWCR 74 A grade winner, Medal of Medals winner: Sarah Deas (23) 92/69 c/b. A grade runner up: Barb Welch (21) 90/69. B grade winner: Ann Bryant (39) 112/73 c/b. B grade runner up: Ann Hazeldine (36) 109/73.

Ball winners: Sandra Piazza 90/72.

NTPs - first: Marg Curtis, fourth second shot: Jan Roseby, 14th: Marg Curtis, 16th: Jan Roseby.

Putting competition: Sandra Piazza 25 putts.

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Page 30 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

SPORT Saville leads Power to victory over Dederang

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BOYS IN BLUE: Will Robinson-Dunn (left) and Tom Scott are looking forward to coaching the women’s soccer side in 2024. PHOTO: Brodie Everist

■ From back page

Youngster Ethan Brown terrorised Dederang’s top order, picking up three vital wickets in quick succession, and when Craig Henderson found success, Dederang were flailing at 5/50.

A 71-run stand between Bailey Williamson (28) and Timothy Farrant (71) threatened to take the game away from the Power, but once pressure bowling from the skipper removed Williamson, the match was all but done.

Brown was the pick of Mount Beauty’s bowlers, finishing with 4/25 from his eight overs, while Henderson (3/33) and Saville (2/39) also performed well.

Saville said the early bowling efforts were very impressive.

“Over the last couple of years, our bowling up front hasn’t been a strength, but to have five of their best bats out early was important,” he said.

“The numbers show that the dot ball pressure was there, the ground fielding was really good with a couple of missed chances along the way.

“Outstanding from Ethan Brown, 4/25, and even though Toby Derrick didn’t take a wicket he bowled really well.

“There’s still a bit to work on with the ball and in the field, there were a couple of missed chances in the air, but I’m rapt with the performance we were able to display.”

Dynamic duo to lead Savoy women THE future is bright for Myrtleford’s reserve women’s soccer team, having secured two new co-coaches for the 2024 Albury Wodonga Football Association season.

Last season’s runners up will be led by co-coaches and sons of the club, Tom Scott and Will Robinson-Dunn.

With coaching and playing experience at the club at various levels, the duo will look to take the squad one win further than this season’s 2-3 heartbreak in the final to Wodonga Heart.

The pair will take over coaching duties from Gabby Paglia, who will focus on her on-field exploits as a leader of the side.

Scott said the idea for him and Robinson-Dunn to coach

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

the side started as a little joke.

“I’m really good friends with Gabby (Paglia) who coached this year, I started talking to her maybe halfway through the season, just about the next 12 months and what would be involved,” he said.

“I followed along pretty closely with their finals campaign – I said to the girls that if they made it to the grand final, we’d have a conversation about me coaching this year a little bit more serious rather than just joking around.

“To my word, they got

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there and came pretty close to winning, so we said ‘righto’, sat down and it pretty much went from there.”

Scott said he was looking forward to expanding his coaching chops, having always had an eye on coaching.

“One thing with being with Myrtleford for so long and that we’re really luck for is we’ve always had really good leaders in the club, really good role models for younger kids,” he said.

“I was taken under a lot of their wings, like past coaches, I always found it pretty interesting.

“It’s great winning as a player but once you get the taste of having a plan and being able to be the puppeteer in different aspects and actu-

ally see it happen, it’s pretty exciting, you get an adrenaline rush from it, so you sort of chase it.”

Scott said he and Robinson-Dunn were very aware of the fact two men were heading up a strong women’s team, but said the name of the game was trust and belief in their charges.

“Will and I, being two men, we were really keen on building that trust, and I think we’re slowly getting there,” he said.

“To their credit, this group of players, they would’ve started pre-season two weeks after the grand final.

“Their determination, not only to win, but their determination just to play sport is so contagious.

“They definitely play it for fun, they’re not playing out of a sense they have to win, they just want to enjoy it.

“This group of players, they’re more than happy to tell you about their day and tell you about how school is, everything under the sun, they’re really open, really friendly.

“It’s a really safe environment that I feel like I can express myself, do drills that might be a little bit challenging for them, but they’re more than happy to take it on and give it a go.

“It’s pretty exciting.”

The Savoy women will round out their pre-Christmas block of training this week before coming back in January.

www.alpineobserver.com.au

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Page 31

TDFL fixture revealed THE 2024 Tallangatta and District Football League fixture has been released, with the season set to commence on Saturday, April 6.

Dederang-Mount Beauty Bombers will take on Tallangatta Hoppers in the opening round, before hosting their first home game in round two against Barnawartha.

Home games before the King’s Birthday bye on June 8 will be held at Mount Beauty, while Dederang will host home fixtures in the latter half of the year.

A second bye will be held across July 13, before the finals begin on August 24, with grand final day pencilled in for September 14.

2024 TDFL Fixture Round 1: Tallangatta vs Dederang-Mount Beauty - April 6.

Round 2: Dederang-Mount Beauty vs Barnawartha – April 13 @ Mount Beauty.

Round 3: Wahgunyah vs Dederang-Mount Beauty – April 20.

Round 4: Dederang-Mount Beauty vs Beechworth - April 27 @ Mount Beauty.

Round 5: Yackandandah vs Dederang-Mount Beauty – May 4.

Round 6: Dederang-Mount Beauty vs Wodonga Saints – May 11 @ Mount Beauty.

Round 7: Rutherglen vs Dederang-Mount Beauty – May 18.

Round 8: Dederang-Mount Beauty vs Kiewa Sandy Creek – May 25 @ Mount Beauty.

Round 9: Thurgoona vs Dederang-Mount Beauty – June 1.

King’s Birthday bye - June 8.

Round 10: Dederang-Mount Beauty vs Mitta United – June 15 @ Dederang.

Round 11: Chiltern vs DederangMount Beauty – June 22.

Round 12: Dederang-Mount Beauty vs Tallangatta – June 29 @ Dederang.

Round 13: Barnawartha vs Dederang-Mount Beauty – July 6.

School Holiday bye – July 13.

Round 14: Beechworth vs Ded-

erang-Mount Beauty – July 20.

Round 15: Dederang-Mount Beauty vs Wahgunyah – July 27 @ Dederang.

Round 16: Wodonga Saints vs Dederang-Mount Beauty – August 3.

Round 17: Dederang-Mount Beauty vs Yackandandah – August 10 @ Dederang.

Round 18: Dederang-Mount Beauty vs Rutherglen – August 17 @ Dederang.

Qualifying Final: August 24. Elimination Final: August 25. Semi-Final 1: August 31. Semi-Final 2: September 1. Preliminary Final: September 7. Grand Final: September 14.

MAKING A SPLASH A GROUP of 35 swimmers from the Myrtleford Swim Club made the trip to Mount Beauty for the last pennant of the year, taking the win. Five swimmers made their competitive debut for the club across multiple age groups (from left): Billy Godenzi, Ivy Lewis, Zoe Petricevich, Ivy Badrock, and Evie Petricevich. The club’s next pennant will be hosted in Myrtleford on January 21.

SPORT

Strong scores from Bright golfers WITH just two weeks left of 2023, golfers at the Bright Golf Club have been hitting the beautiful course and recording solid results.

Veterans, Monday, December 11, Stableford Winner: Douglas Wain (18) 38 points.

Ladies, Wednesday, December 13, Foursomes Winners: Tina Cook, Libby Barker 71.

Men, Thursday, December 14, Stableford A grade winner: Riley Bacon (2) 37 points. B grade winner: Troy Stevens (19) 36 points c/b. C grade winner: Peter Rossiter (32) 36 points.

NTPs – third: Ray Ousley, sixth: Heath Thompson, 11th: Jonas Bush, 16th: Mark Frost.

Men, Saturday, December 16, Stableford A grade winner: Sam Hall (6) 38 points c/b. B grade winner: Gareth Williams (17) 36 points. C grade winner: Stephen Grogan (22) 37 points.

NTPs – third: Darcy Beecher, 11th: Michael O’Shea, 16th: Chris Oswin.

Ladies, Saturday, December 16, Stableford Winner: Allison Gilbert (16) 38 points.

Tigers lead the pack ■ From back page

Bursill managed 26 runs to get his side over the line, with Cooper Thomason contributing 11 runs at better than a run a ball.

“The way our batters applied themselves, especially Seamus Phillips and Gurjot Gosal at the top of the order, was really pleasing to see,” Bursill said.

“They played risk-free cricket, played some absolutely amazing shots, hitting the ball that hard along the ground they went for four.

“Beechworth only had six boundaries for their whole innings in 167 runs, and I think Seamus hit six boundaries himself, which was good to see.

“Seamus and ‘Gosi’ got to 95 without loss with heaps of overs left – I think ‘Gosi’ went out just before drinks, we were about 100 after 20 overs.

“When you only need 68 in the last 20 overs and the bowlers and fielders are a bit down because they haven’t made many inroads, it makes it pretty easy for the next blokes coming in.”

The Tigers will enjoy the Christmas break on top of the one day ladder, 6.5 points clear of second placed team Yarrawonga Mulwala.

The season is set to resume on Saturday, January 6, when the Tigers take on Rovers United Bruck in a 40-over battle.

CARVED AWAY: Seamus Phillips belted a half century for the Tigers over the weekend.

DAMAGING: Cooper Thomason knocked over leading run-scorer Clancy Ellett very cheaply.

PHOTOS: Janet Watt

FRONT FOOT: Gurjot Gosal prepares to drive the ball down the wicket.

Page 32 - Wednesday, December 20, 2023

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Saville leads Power to victory over Dederang

DOUBLE DELIGHT WILL Robinson-Dunn (left) and Tom Scott have been named co-coaches of Myrtleford Savoy Soccer Club’s extremely strong reserve women’s side for the 2024 AWFA season. Training has begun, and will ramp up in the new year. Story: page 30.

PHOTO: Brodie Everist

By NATHAN DE VRIES

Tigers lead the pack OVU clear on top p of A ggrade one dayy ladder at halfwayy p point of season CHRISTMAS came early for Ovens Valley United’s A grade squad, who took a great win over Beechworth Wanderers on Saturday.

The Tigers kept Beechworth to 10/167 on a slow field, before piling on 4/195 runs of their own from 40 overs.

Choosing to chase, Ovens Valley United took on the challenging task of knocking over Beechworth’s rock-solid top four.

After the league’s leading run-scorer Clancy Ellet fell uncharacteristically cheaply for just 18 runs, Cam Fendyk (56) and Kayde

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

Surrey (37) upped the run rate.

It was import Gurjot Gosal who turned the tide, trapping Fendyk LBW after holding onto a catch to remove Surrey.

The Wanderers had smashed out 144 runs before the ever-dangerous Brenton Surrey (23) joined his top three back in the sheds, exposing a very long tail-end.

Beechworth collapsed, losing 6/23 to limp towards a respectable

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total of 167, with Glenn White (3/20), Cooper Thomason (2/30), and Sam Piazza (2/34) sweeping up the tail.

OVU skipper Dylan Bursill said it was a comprehensive effort from his bowlers.

“All our bowlers bowled really well in partnerships, it was good how we closed off the innings,” he said.

“Sam Piazza and Glenn White did a fantastic job, bowling nine or 10 of the last 15 overs.

“I used James Neary a little bit differently too, he bowled through the middle overs just before and after drinks, he did a really good job.

“In the end I think he only bowled five overs, so when you’ve got someone like James only bowling five overs, that’s a credit to the rest of the bowlers.”

With a very achievable target ahead of them, openers Gosal (44) and Seamus Phillips (53) had no issue finding the boundary early, carving out a 95 first wicket partnership, before drinks.

After Gosal departed in the 18th over, Kane Fitzpatrick came to the crease to anchor the run chase, running well between the wickets for his 43* not out.

■ Continued page 31

AN unbeaten knock of 86* from skipper Daniel Saville paved the way for Mount Beauty to claim victory over Dederang on Saturday in the last outing before the break.

Saville carried his bat throughout the innings, helping the Power post 6/204 at the Mount Beauty Recreation Reserve, before knocking Dederang over for 190 in reply.

A largely chanceless innings, Saville anchored his end and turned strike effectively, while other big hitters like Paddy Dodd (29 off 26), Toby Derrick (20 off 35) and Alasdair Randell (28* from 22) went for the boundary.

Barring some tight bowling through the middle overs from Dederang, the Power cruised along to a decent enough total, with their bowlers set to defend.

“There were a few starts, a few different partnerships along the way - ideally, you’d have a big partnership, but we had a few smaller ones which was good,” Saville said.

“I promoted young Toby Derrick up the order, he’s had some good form in junior rep cricket recently and he had a good hit-out which was good.

“Paddy Dodd and Greg (McLennan) are quite aggressive at the top “We did get bogged down a bit, slowed in the middle overs courtesy of their good spin bowling which helped them peg us back, but we hit away in the end to have that psychological edge, that 200+ advantage which always keeps you in the game.

“I thought we may have needed a few more, but I guess it was enough in the end.”

■ Continued page 30

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