MORE than 6000 people attended last weekend’s Brighter Days festival in Bright, enjoying some of Australia’s top musical acts and admiring magni cent cars and bikes at the Show N’ Shine while raising money for children’s charities Cure EB, DEBRA and the Cooper Trewin Foundation.
Vice president of the Brighter Days Foundation, Jason Reid, said organisers were very happy with the festive weekend, with excellent attendance.
“Everyone was very well behaved and we had an exceptionally generous crowd who has helped us raise significant funds for our charities this year,” he said.
“One supporter who has donated significant funds to the cause previously, donated $500,000 which was spectacular.
“With that donation, it has put us well over our combined $5 million fundraising goal since Brighter Days began.”
The festival had more than 220 volunteers to help coordinate the event over weekend.
“We had tremendous support from our local volunteers, as well as those volunteers who drove great distances,” Mr Reid said.
“Some of the stand-out acts as part of the music festival were Thirsty Merc, Reece Mastin with his Big Beer Band, also Joe Camilleri & the Black Sorrows and our favourite annual regular band, who form part of our committee, The Screaming Eagles.
“The real hit for the locals was the local band ‘Damn’d Sam and the Preachers’ who really got the show rocking and rolling.
PIONEER PARK PERUSAL: ‘Ride for A Cure’ travelled across the beautiful landscape of the Alpine region to raise money for Brighter Days to the delight of motorbike and vintage car enthusiasts.
“The weekend was topped off with a visit from Travis Fimmel, which was very generous of him to give us his time and he has
become a huge supporter of Brighter Days, which is lovely.”
Acting Senior Sergeant Romina McEwan from
SOUNDING OUT SUPPORT FOR SICK KIDS: Committee representatives of the charity group DEBRA with band ‘Thirsty Merc’ encouraged the crowd to donate the festival’s charities.
Bright police said the festival was a huge success, with only a few issues managed by police.
“It was pleasing to see so
many attendees at the festival enjoying themselves and supporting various children’s charities,” she said.
SPARKLING SEA: The amazing crowd lit up the night during the Screamin’ Eagles and special guests performance.
PHOTOS: Jean-Pierre Ronco
Brewers welcome freeze on draught beer excise
By PHOEBE MORGAN
A MT BEAUTY brewer says the federal government’s decision to heed industry concerns and freeze an excise increase on draught beer for two years, commencing August 2025, is welcome news for brewers, as well as beer drinkers.
Steph Bellman, co-owner of Mountain Monk Brewers in Mount Beauty, said this government’s recent decision should help keep prices steadier and more a ordable for all customers.
“This stability is crucial, especially in a market where consumers are feeling the pinch from various in ationary pressures,” Ms Bellman said.
“However, it’s important to note that while the excise tax freeze may prevent some price increases, the industry, like every other industry, is still facing rising production and material costs as well that could impact breweries’ overall pricing strategy in the long run.
“Despite these challenges though, I believe this freeze
will make a signi cant di erence and it is fabulous to see that politicians have listened to all the lobbying about this.”
Mountain Monk Brewers, together with other smaller and independent brewers across the Alpine Shire including Bright Brewery had joined an Australia-wide chorus from the industry lobbying the government for excise relief.
Clubs Australia executive director, Rebecca Riant, said the excise cut, which only applies to beers poured in licensed venues, is great news
for the hospitality industry and the millions of Australians who enjoy a few refreshing beers at their local club.
“We would call on the federal Opposition to adopt the same stance on excise, to provide certainty for industry and beer lovers across the country,” she said.
Brewers Association of Australia chief executive ofcer, John Preston, said the measure takes e ect at a time when help for Australia’s brewing and hospitality sectors is acutely needed.
“A er more than 40 years
of twice-yearly beer tax increases, which has given Australians the third highest taxed beer in the world, we welcome the Prime Minister’s decision to step in,” Mr Preston said.
“Whilst this is a moderate change it will certainly make a di erence for brewers and everyone who enjoys visiting their local for a beer.
“We hope now that the Coalition step up and also make a commitment to support small hospitality businesses and their customers with lower taxes.”
Emergency crews free driver in 4WD flip
By PHOEBE MORGAN
MULTIPLE emergency ser-
vices responded to a crash near Selwyn over the weekend, where a truck had le the road and tumbled several times downhill before being stopped by a tree part-way down.
A group of four, fourwheel-drivers were travelling west along the Blue Rag Range track on Saturday, 8 March, when one of the group attempted to navigate a di cult part of track, which had been a ected by wombat holes.
“The driver, a 25-year-old male, was struggling to negotiate the track and attempted to reverse,” Acting Senior Sergeant, Romina McEwan from Bright police said.
“The vehicle struck a bank causing it to roll three or four times down an embankment, approximately 30 metres.
“The driver was trapped in the vehicle whilst the passenger was able to self-extricate.”
Bright SES Controller, Graham Gales, said removing the driver from the vehicle was itself a hurdle, before attempting the high-angle rescue.
“Our unit attended the scene with eight SES mem-
bers in three vehicles,” Mr Gales said.
“The Mount Beauty CFA were also called, because they’re part of the high-angle rescue team.
“Our main challenge was getting there, because the track was not in good condition and there was so much tra c on the roads over the weekend.
“Once we got him up to the road, we were able to transport him to the Ambulance Victoria helicopter, higher up the mountain.”
The driver was success-
fully extricated from the vehicle by emergency service o cers and airli ed to the Royal Melbourne Hospital with suspected fractured vertebrae.
Non-voters asked to explain why they didn’t vote in the 2024 council elections
THE Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) is urging Alpine Shire residents not to ignore a request for an explanation as to why they appear not to have voted in the last local council elections in October 2024.
The VEC has issued close to 530,000 ‘Apparent failure to vote notices’ across Victoria and recipients must respond
by the 28-day deadline with a detailed explanation.
The notice is an opportunity to avoid a ne if non-voters provide a detailed response with supporting documentation.
The VEC is required to automatically ne non-respondents or those who do not provide a valid reason for failing to vote, the penalty is $99.
Electoral commissioner Sven Bluemmel said that recipients should contact the VEC for assistance if unsure what to do, rather than ignore the notice.
“If you need help understanding what the notice means and what you need to do, you can call us on 1300 551 575 or visit our website at vec.vic.gov.au,” he said.
“Information on what to do if you receive an apparent failure to vote notice is available to view in 10 inlanguage videos.
“I also encourage you to sign up to our VoterAlert service, to make sure you’re noti ed whenever there’s a state or local council election you need to vote in.”
The VEC issued VoterAlert
reminders by SMS and email at key points in the election to 2.5 million enrolled voters who had provided their details. They included reminders on the close of roll date and a reminder to vote.
People can sign up at any time to be reminded to vote in all future state and local council elections at: vec.vic. gov.au/VoterAlert.
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
WORKSAFE Victoria has reminded Victorians that workplace tragedy doesn’t discriminate a er releasing its workplace death and injury claim tallies for 2024.
WorkSafe recorded 50 lives lost at workplaces across the state throughout the year with more than 25,500 workers being accepted for injury compensation claims.
There were ve fatalities recorded in the Hume region, including two in the Moira Shire, two in the Mitchell shire and one in Wodonga.
The region accepted the most injury work claims across regional Victoria with 1328 claims, down on 2023’s gure of 1546.
While no deaths occurred in the Alpine Shire, it recorded the fourth most injury claims for compensation in the Ovens and Murray region with 77.
Within the Ovens and Murray area encompassing shires in Wangaratta, Alpine, Benalla, Indigo, Mans eld, Towong and Wodonga, 654 injury claims were made in 2024, down 79 on the year prior.
WorkSafe executive director health and safety, Sam Jenkin, said the toll highlighted the fact any workplace was susceptible to a tragedy, so it was essential for employers and workers to stay vigilant.
“Victoria is among the safest places to work in the world but it is simply unacceptable lives are still being lost in what are entirely preventable workplace incidents,” Mr Jenkin said.
“No family should su er the devastation of losing a loved one at work and we remain unyielding in our commitment to working towards a future of zero workplace deaths.”
“For too many years we have continued to see workplace harm due to the same hazards in the same industries, which is why WorkSafe has set ambitious targets to challenge the status quo.
“We are asking for the support and buy-in of the entire Victorian community – only together can we create safer workplaces that last for generations to come.”
FOUR-WHEEL FLIP: A passenger was able to exit the tossed truck, but the driver required rescue a er becoming trapped inside the vehicle.
PHOTO: Bright SES
Cyclist dies in crash at Falls Creek
POLICE are investigating a fatal bicycle crash which occurred near Falls Creek over the weekend.
O cers were called to Bogong High Plains Road a er reports a cyclist had le the road about 7pm on Sunday, 9 March.
A 62-year-old male from
interstate was located and treated at the scene, but could not be revived.
The exact circumstances surrounding the crash are still being investigated and police will prepare a brief of evidence for the coroner.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or with footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Wodonga Highway Patrol.
The Bright and Falls Creek SES units were called to the scene to assist police throughout the evening at the crash site.
Riders descended on Falls Creek for the Peaks Challenge ride on Sunday as cyclists took on a 235km ride with 4000+ metres of climbing and a 13-hour deadline.
Acting Inspector David Gillespie said across the North East and the state over
the long weekend, police had continued to see noncompliance with such things as failure to wear seatbelts, low level speeding, drink and drug driving and using mobile phones.
Myrtleford memories of a dozen remarkable women from district
By PHOEBE MORGAN
THE Myrtleford and District Historical Society’s (MDHS) latest exhibition was held last Saturday and Sunday, to a great community response.
The ‘Women of Myrtleford and District’ display showcased the lives and impact a dozen women had on the town from 1860 to 1960.
Whether the lauded ladies were born in the region or settled here over the course of their lives, the society aimed to showcase their great e orts for both the town and in some instances, the country.
“The exhibition went really, really well,” MDHS president, Kerry Murtagh said.
“We had approximately 170 people through over the whole weekend and approximately 50 of those went on to visit the museum as well.
“It was amazing how people came in from all over to see the exhibit.
“It wasn’t just women who came to view the exhibition, it was a whole mix of people from all di erent ages.
“We’ve had some very positive feedback; there was a comment book available and it’s now full of feedback from the attendees.
“People really enjoyed the ladies’ stories and said how great it was for the community to learn about their history.
“I did a movie reel with lots of photos of town-scenes from the eras, which everyone seemed to love...they all sat down and watched it.
Myrtleford and District Historical Society’s exhbition of A Dozen District Dames:
JESSIE ROBINSON was the founding owner of ‘J. Robinson’s General Store’.
AGNES GLASS, with her husband, owned the ‘A & J Glass General Store’.
MARIANNE CUNDY was one of the first teachers at the First Myrtleford State School, now the Old School Museum.
LAURA MOORE and her husband owned a bakery before his death; she then worked as a seamstress to support her four children.
MARGARET CARTHEW was a mother of three ANZAC sons, one in the 8th Lighthorse Regiment, 3rd Brigade, another at Gallipoli and another in the Western Front.
AGATHA SCIUTO was among the first of the Italian Migrants who settled in Myrtleford in the 1920s.
ALISON BARTON was a WWII telephonist in Sydney and became a Corporal.
DOCTOR IVY CAMILLE BEAUMONT was among the first rural women accepted into Melbourne University medical school and became Albury Base Hospital’s first female registered medical officer.
IRIS SCHLAPP (NE’ CROSSLEY) was a Princess Mary’s Royal Airforce Nursing Service nurse and the Matron at the Myrtleford Bush Nursing Hospital.
MARGARET SHARP ran a pharmacy in Clyde Street, ‘Miss Sharp’s Chemist’ and would drive out in her black Chevrolet to deliver prescriptions throughout the area.
GEORGINA NOLAN (NE’ MITCHELL) was the Wangaratta RSL Ball’s ‘Belle of Belles’ in September 1955.
DOREEN MCILROY was very active in community service in town through the CFA and Red Cross.
“A lot of the subjects’ families came, with a couple of Carthews from Mount Macedon, a lot of Shooter family members from Melbourne, and from locally like the Schlapp family representatives.
“The Sharps, they came from the Wodonga area and the McIlroy’s who live locally came and there were a few who visited from Queensland.
“Georgie Nolan, some of her family came and the Beaumonts, they were very, very happy with the presentation.
“The Glass family also had some representatives.
“There were family members everywhere and they were very
pleased and honoured for their ladies to be selected for this rst exhibition.
“It was a big success and we were very busy overall.
“The MDHS members are already thinking about putting on another exhibition next year.”
Robyn retires after 40 years of service
WANDILIGONG Preservation Society’s (WPS) annual general meeting on February 16 saw the celebration of retiring president Robyn Wood’s 40 years of service.
For each of those past 40 plus years, Robyn has been involved in the WPS at the executive level as well as at the ‘planting-trees level’, having held various roles of o ce during each of those years and working alongside many inspiring and talented people.
At the AGM, Robyn acknowledged her early mentors and founders of the society, including Coral and Jack Bennett, Bessie Fitzpatrick, Agnes O’Donnell, Pat
McGough, Avril Benson, Ross Goldsworthy and Alf Royle.
“Robyn has always been the ‘go-to’ person in Wandiligong regarding the Diggings, especially since founding member Coral Bennett’s death,” WPS secretary, Adam Rosser said.
“Robyn can be seen walking in the Diggings almost every day, noting any damage or maintenance concerns as well as opportunities for improvement.
“She is always in good cheer and has been consistently willing to do whatever is necessary to ‘get the job done’.
“She loves the area and has shown great commitment
and dedication to preserving local community and landscape.
“The Wandiligong Preservation Society and the community would like to thank Robyn for her many, many years of service to the community and we wish her well with her retirement.
“The WPS would also like to thank Peter Bick, our outgoing secretary and Melanie Gribble, our outgoing treasurer, for their many years of service to the WPS.”
If anyone is interested in joining the WPS, please email: wandiligongpreservationsociety@gmail.com for more information.
“This is really disappointing as this type of risk taking is easily avoidable – we need to work together to stop the road trauma on our roads,” he said.
“I ask that we all take care and ensure we take seriously the responsibility of using our road networks is the forefront of our minds.”
Exhausted hiker rescued on Mt Feathertop
By PHOEBE MORGAN
A HIKER required rescue after completing part of a group trek on the way down from Mount Feathertop on Sunday, 9 March.
On Saturday, a party of six hikers ascended Mount Feathertop via the Bungalow Spur while on a training exercise for a future trip to Nepal.
The next day, the party began to descend Feathertop via the North West Spur Track, when one of the less experienced walkers, a 32-year-old female, began to suffer from exhaustion and abandoned her hiking pack half way down.
“We sent a crew of SES members in to meet the group,” Bright SES Controller, Graham Gales said.
“Bright and Myrtleford SES volunteers attended the scene and helped her return to the base of the trail.”
Multiple agencies responded to assist the hiker return to her vehicle due to the quicklychanging weather conditions in the face of an impending storm and the lack of experience.
“The female hiker returned to the camping area at the trail head where she remained overnight prior to returning home on Monday,” Acting Senior Sergeant, Romina McEwan from Bright police said.
“Fortunately she sustained no injuries and only temporarily suffered from a bout of exhaustion.
“Overall, it was a very busy weekend for all emergency services in the alpine area.
“It is with great thanks to our counterparts in the SES, CFA and Ambulance Victoria who work collaboratively with Victoria Police members to achieve successful outcomes such as these.”
ALL AROUND: Outgoing secretary Peter Bick, outgoing treasurer Melanie Gribble (centre) with outgoing President Robyn Wood at the Wandiligong Preservation Society’s February AGM. PHOTO: WPS
Community division over BESS development
THE Dederang BESS project is an emotive issue which is sadly dividing the community in and around Dederang.
The project planning and approval process for renewable energy projects clearly rests with the Victorian Government.
As a federal MP my involvement has been to advocate on the critical issues of consultation and community bene t.
Even before the plans for the Dederang BESS was announced, I worked consistently and constructively to draw attention to the way in which some regional communities feel like the renewable energy rollout is happening to them and not with them.
I am concerned about the politicisation of this issue and its impact on the community, as well as misrepresentations of my position on this project and renewable projects in general.
I have called for the mapping of suitable land for renewable development and establishing ‘no-go’ sites such as high-value agricultural land.
I wrote to the Victorian Government in April 2024 to
express my dismay with their decision to remove the right for third parties to appeal renewable planning decisions through VCAT.
Fast tracking projects and silencing communities is terrible governance.
In May 2024 I helped organise an independently facilitated meeting to allow Dederang community members to put their concerns directly to MINT Renewables, which I also attended.
This work has been substantial in helping the community relay concerns about insurance premiums, re risks, biosecurity risks, visual amenity and project placement.
I have raised these issues of poor community consultation at a national level by taking these concerns to the Minister for Climate and Energy Chris Bowen in 2023 to set up an independent Community Engagement Review.
This review, undertaken by the former Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner Andrew Dyer made nine recommendations to improve community engagement and consultation on renewable projects.
I successfully argued for Federal budget to operationalise these recommendations.
My submission to that review re ects the experiences of people in Indi and makes detailed recommendations,
particularly around the use of agricultural land.
I will continue to advocate for the people of Indi in ways that are appropriate to my role as their Federal Member and work to improve the system for all of regional Australia.
Helen Haines, federal Independent MP for Indi
Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund being misused
QUESTIONS remain answered by the Allan Labor Government over its newly doubled and rebranded tax, formerly called the Emergency Services Levy.
The government refuses to provide any clarity on the distribution of the $2.1 billion it generates from the newly named Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF).
It continues to avoid questions that would allow the community the clarity deserved as to how much will go to fundamental government services, and whether there will be relief in sight for our underfunded emergency services.
In state parliament recently, Labor was urged to come clean and detail the distribution of the ESVF. Volunteer agencies have been
ignored and continuously misled in relation to Labor’s tax.
The government is using it to prop up agencies including Triple Zero, the State Control Centre and Emergency Management Victoria – central services that should already be covered by existing tax revenue.
Labor cut tens of millions of dollars from these agencies to fund the mismanaged big build in Melbourne; now it is double dipping on ratepayers to pay for its nancial failures.
It is disgraceful that our underfunded, yet essential services provided by CFA and SES must fundraise to purchase critical lifesaving equipment, and that Volunteer Coast Guards, St John Ambulance and Surf Life Saving Victoria do not have adequate funding ensured.
In addition, Labor must ensure all emergency services organisations receive a fair share and that their volunteers receive a levy exemption for their invaluable community contribution.
These services are the backbone of our community, entirely responsible for the safety and protection of our people, yet they are being undercut on the pecking order of importance as Labor continues to hide behind confusing language in a bid to deceive people and hide their nancial incompetence.
Tim McCurdy, Nationals’ MP for Ovens Valley
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Email: edit.timesobserver@nemedia.com.au
Post: North East Media 76 Standish Street, Myrtleford, Vic 3737
Tawonga community to celebrate 180 years
TAWONGA will mark a major milestone this month, celebrating 180 years of community and resilience.
Originally settled in the 1840s, Tawonga has grown from a colonial settlement into a cherished rural community and this month, residents are coming together for a weekend of festivities to honour its heritage and celebrate its resilience.
From Friday, 28 March to Sunday, 30 March the Tawonga and District Community Association (TDCA), with support from the Upper Kiewa Valley Historical Society, Alpine Shire Council and the Kiewa Valley Flood and Landslip Community Grants Program 2024-25, will host a series of events for all ages.
The celebrations will include a family bush dance, community exhibitions and an ecumenical service.
The weekend will also showcase the area’s rich history, with displays of family recollections, old maps and photos at Tawonga Memorial Hall.
Farm equipment and old cars will be on display in Tawonga Pioneer Memorial Park, along with a barbecue sausage sizzle, an animal nursery and plenty of other fun activities for children.
Porsche driver fined $5000
for 173km/h
speed near Whorouly
The district CFA will also be present with equipment and specialist services.
“This is a momentous occasion for Tawonga,” TDCA president, Mark Redmond said.
“We’re inviting everyone: locals, visitors, former residents and their families to join us for this incredible weekend.
“Whether you’ve lived here for generations or just have fond memories of holidays in Tawonga, this celebration is for you.”
The event organisers are also encouraging the public to contribute any photos, historical items, or memorabilia related to Tawonga’s past.
“If you have old photo-
graphs, letters, or even small keepsakes from Tawonga, we’d love to display them during the event,” Mr Redmond said.
“It’s a unique opportunity to showcase the stories and people that have shaped this wonderful town.”
The weekend schedule sees celebrations to kick
off with a family bush dance, pizzas and supper at the Tawonga Memorial Hall, from 6pm on Friday, 28 March.
Continuing on from 10am, Saturday, 29 March, a community festival will be held at Pioneer Memorial Park, with cake-cutting scheduled at noon.
Sunday, 30 March will
wrap–up the weekend with an ecumenical service at St. Aidan’s Anglican Church from 10am, followed by a Devonshire Tea service.
“This 180th celebration will be a memorable gathering for all who hold Tawonga close to their hearts,” Mr Redmond said.
“Let’s make this a weekend to cherish.”
Alleged speeding of Mercedes driver in Myrtleford to go to contest
A MERCEDES driver is set to contest an alleged speeding incident in Myrtleford’s main street, a court has heard.
A PORSCHE driver who had only had his licence retrieved for two months was caught at 173km/h along Snow Road near Whorouly, a court has heard.
The Cau eld North man did not appear at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court last Thursday with the police prosecution successfully applying to hear the matter ex-parte.
The court heard highway patrol o cers were stationed at Snow Road between Lower River Road and Great Alpine Road in Gapsted around 7pm on 21 July last year when they observed a black Porsche coming from the Great Alpine Road at a fast speed.
Police attempted to pursue the luxury vehicle which overtook two cars along the damp road under darkness.
As police positioned themselves behind the Porsche, they observed the driver overtake two more vehicles in a le to right bend, crossing a solid white line in the middle of the road.
Police clocked the vehicle going 173km/h before intercepting the driver and a passenger near Whorouly and impounded his vehicle for 30 days.
Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Stuart Pritchard said the man’s driving was “manifestly dangerous and excessive” and the driver and his passenger would most likely have died if involved in a crash and severely damaged vehicles of other road users.
When interviewed by police roadside, the driver admitted he was at fault and thought he was going around 120km/h.
The Melbourne man appeared virtually in Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court last Thursday and maintained his innocence over allegedly speeding more that 15km/h above the speed limit on the busy street.
Road at 77 km/h in a 60km/h zone on 18 February last year.
The court heard police allegedly caught a grey Mercedes SUV travelling towards Myrtleford from the Great Alpine
The driver was intercepted and questioned the radar reading, telling police he was going 60km/h.
Defence counsel Jason Milides said there were a num-
ber of vehicles on the road at the time and accused the police o cer of losing sight of the speeding vehicle when performing a U-turn to intercept his client.
Magistrate Peter Dunn said if the defendant admit-
ted to the incident, a lenient penalty could be o ered.
“How many silver Mercedes SUVs are there in Myrtleford?” he said.
The matter will return to Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court for contest on 9 July.
The court heard the man had only just retrieved his licence following a 12-month disquali cation in May for similar o ending.
Magistrate Peter Dunn issued a $5000 ne and a two-year driving ban, saying the behaviour was “verging on imprisonment”.
Ladies share cancer fundraising mission
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
WOMEN were in the news last week with International Women’s Day being celebrated.
The Mt Beauty Neighbourhood Centre hosted a morning tea with guest speaker Meredith Iaria telling of the cycle ride ‘Tour de Cure’, from Airlie Beach to Port Douglas - a 1100km ride in eight days.
Meredith and Glenys Peacock will participate in the ride to raise funds for cancer research, and so far they have raised over $28,000.
Meredith told of her own experiences with family members having cancer, explaining that cancer touches everyone in some form or another.
This is a very worthwhile cause. Good luck ladies.
The theme this year for IWD is acceleration for the gender gap, particularly when it comes to salaries.
The average pay gap between women to men is 21.7 percent, meaning that for every dollar a man earns women earn just .78 cents for the same work.
Funds raised for IWD will go to ‘Essentials Parcels’ consisting of items like shampoo, hygiene products and more, that will be sent to third world and war torn countries.
It was a fun morning with a raffle of six prizes donated by local businesses, the neighbourhood centre and the office of federal Indi MP Helen Haines.
Happy to say that yours truly won a large hamper of local produce.
Great to see and feel the
Celebrations to mark former church renovation
THE much-anticipated celebration marking renovations to Eurobin’s former Saint Clements’ Church will take place this Saturday, marking the building’s 115-year anniversary.
The church, which was deconsecrated and closed years ago was bought by Alison Wren in early 2021, has undergone extensive renovations.
The church building was built in 1910 by the people of Eurobin and it served the community for decades.
Saturday’s celebrations, which commence at 12.30pm, seek to mark the importance of the building to community members, who have been asked to bring along items to place in a time capsule.
For more information and to book the last remaining free tickets to Saturday’s, visit the ‘Church Eurobin’ Facebook page.
cameraderie that a group of women can generate when they get together.
EACH Tuesday and Thursday mornings the Mt Beauty pool comes alive with mostly women in the Alpine Move group.
Qualified volunteers run these water exercise classes, with up to 24 people participating at one time.
With the cost of only $10 per year membership, the classes are free.
It is a one hour session starting at 10am.
Classes will finish when the pool closes at the end of the summer season.
What a great way to keep fit and cool! For further enquiries call Suzanne Bland on 0402 438 917.
THE Alpine FM Brunch program now airing on Tuesdays as well as Wednesday morning 9am til noon, has been having a lot of fun lately. Its excellent guests and segments are proving to be a hit with the listeners.
Highlights are: Roi Rigoni (Il sono Italiano); Luise Moch (What are you reading); Sue White (All things Doggie); Dr Laura Zagorski (Ask the
doctor); Dr Helen Haines Federal MP, Sarah Nicholas Alpine Shire mayor, regular author interviews, along with the Talking Heads segment with station manager Michael Ahearn, and much much more.
Great music and lively chat.
Enjoy more interesting and lively chats with programs such as Beats and Banter with Mandy and Yo (Tuesdays 6pm til 8pm); Driving me Crazy with Viv and Richard (Thursdays at 5pm); Caitlin with My Generation Mix (Thursdays at 11am).
Alpine FM is your emergency broadcaster 96.5 FM.
Myrtleford roadworks are continuing
ASPHALT and resealing works have begun in the Myrtleford area and will continue over the next two weeks.
The essential works, which commenced on Tuesday this week, aim to improve road conditions and safety for the community.
Both the Myrtleford Transfer Station and Myrtleford Library will be affected this week by the works.
The transfer station was closed on Tuesday and Wednesday but re-opens today with normal operating hours, while the library carpark works are continuing today.
For those visiting the library, alternate parking and pedestrian access will be provided while the carpark is being resurfaced.
▲ COOL FITNESS: The Alpine Move group uses the Mt Beauty pool for exercise sessions on Tuesday and Thursday mornings.
◀ WOMEN UNITE: International Women’s Day was celebrated. at Mt Beauty Neighbourhood Centre last week with a special morning tea.
Alpine Health enhancing comprehensive care for older Australians
OVER the past 12 months, Alpine Health has been involved in an exciting project to implement the Indigo 4Ms framework into the care of Alpine Health clients on home care packages.
This initiative, in partnership with Beechworth Health, is part of an Australian Government grant aimed at improving comprehensive care planning for older Australians.
The Indigo 4Ms tool enables primary healthcare workers and care managers to navigate the complexity of integrated care by focusing on ‘What Matters, Medication, Mobility, and Mental Health’.
Alpine Health’s acting director healthy communities, Peter Burgess, said the tool structures the clinical encounter to ensure a comprehensive approach to care and allows the development and implementation of a unified plan, focusing on maintaining or improving the functional capacity of older individuals.
“By integrating the Indigo
4Ms framework, we are helping older Australians navigate the complexity of the healthcare system with a focus on their personal needs and goals, ensuring they receive the best possible care,” Mr Burgess, said.
He said Alpine Health plays a vital role as a partner organisation in this project, working alongside the John Richards Centre for Rural Ageing Research to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of the Indigo 4Ms framework.
Mr Burgess said the evaluation aims to determine the effectiveness of the Indigo 4Ms tool in improving comprehensive care planning for older people and the scope of practice for the health workforce.
The goal is to also identify strategies to enhance the implementation of the tool, which can be applied to other settings to improve healthcare for older Australians and conduct an economic appraisal of the tool and its implementation, assessing its value and sustainability.
Guns destroyed and penalties for illegal hunting offences
TWO men from Melbourne caught illegally spotlighting for protected wildlife in Abbeyard near the Alpine National Park have had their rearms, spotlights and hunting equipment forfeited and destroyed.
The men faced Werribee Magistrates’ Court last week and pleaded guilty to illegal spotlighting, rearm o ences and shooting protected wildlife.
They were both ned, ordered to pay court costs and placed on 12 month good behaviour bonds.
Game Management Authority (GMA) authorised o cers had tar-
geted the area a er community members and hunters reported illegal hunting activity occurring at night.
GMA o cers intercepted the o enders in their 4WD vehicle a er observing the men travelling slowly along the West Bu alo Track, holding a rearm and aiming spotlights into the bush.
Upon inspection o cers found a loaded centre re ri e and a rim re ri e in the back seat of the vehicle, along with loose ammunition, four spotlights, three dead brushtail possums and other hunting equipment.
Speaking a er the court case, GMA director of compliance and intelligence, Zac Powell said, people who hunt in Victoria have a responsibility to know and follow the law, and those who break it will be caught and held accountable.
“Illegal spotlighting, hunting protected wildlife and irresponsible behaviour is dangerous and can put communities, properties, wildlife and livestock at risk,” Mr Powell said.
“Those who break the law face signi cant nes and penalties, they may be prosecuted, have
their equipment con scated and lose their game and rearms licences.
“In some cases, o enders may face jail terms.
“When hunters and community members report illegal spotlighting, they are helping the GMA and partner agencies to target problem areas and protect their communities.”
Mr Powell urged community members - including hunters, campers and local residents - to report illegal spotlighting to the GMA through its website at: gma. vic.gov.au or by calling 136 186.
TEAM EFFORT: Alpine Health Home Care Packages care team (from le ) acting director healthy communities Peter Burgess, acting program manager healthy ageing Annalee Gardam, IMOC facilitator Lisa Kupferle, HCP care coordinator Di Dalbosco, HCP care manager Emma Morrison and HCP care coordinator Ashley Chalmers celebrate a year running the Indigo 4Ms framework in the Alpine Shire.
PHOTO: Alpine Health
FORFEITED: These firearms seized from two illegal spotlighters were forfeited and destroyed. PHOTO: GMA
Cloud 9 Restaurant redevelopment forging ahead at Falls Creek resort
SKIERS and riders to Falls Creek this winter will bene t from a major redevelopment at the Cloud 9 Restaurant at the top of Halley’s Comet chairli , thanks to the ongoing partnership between Falls Creek Ski Li s and Traverse Alpine Group (TAG).
Local construction teams are now into their third year putting the nal stage of the redevelopment together in challenging alpine and highaltitude conditions, with completion on track ahead of the snow season opening in June.
The complex project at Cloud 9 has seen a new semi-enclosed area added, together with an expansive new roof with high ceilings and huge windows all facing north to make the most of the spectacular views looking across to Spion Kopje and ensures the area is warm and cosy under the winter sun.
A new bar service area upstairs in the mezzanine level will open, providing addi-
tional room for all guests.
There is also a new retail space for the Falls Creek Sports store, to ensure they have everything guests need, including a great range of gloves, goggles, helmets, beanies and other winter essentials.
Last year, accessibility was also improved signi cantly at Cloud 9, with an entrance ramp and an internal elevator replacing stairs, making facilities easier to access for all guests.
“This incredible redevelopment elevates our food and beverage o ering in Falls Creek, truly a foodies paradise with over 28 places to eat and drink,” said Betony Pitcher, Falls Creek eld marketing manager.
Several local rms have been involved in the Cloud 9 redevelopment, including Duggan & Hanlon Constructions, Sendit Architecture and Kusch Consulting Engineers, who are all from the North East Victoria region, as
received his Commendation for Service throughout two score years.
well as Melbourne and Sydney based NMBW Architecture Studio and Cave Urban Architects.
At 1600m above sea level, the Cloud 9 Restaurant is proudly one of the highest buildings in Australia, and the local expertise has been invaluable as the team manage the unique challenges of working in such an alpine environment.
“We are also utilising sustainable and recycled materials throughout the building fabric, while maximising insulation through thermally broken windows and design to capture all that the sun can o er,” said Lee Duggan from Duggan & Hanlon Constructions.
The improvements are expected to o er an even greater guest experience with increased seating capacity, greater accessibility and a beautiful new semi-enclosed area overlooking Spion Kopje to enjoy your co ee or lunch whilst admiring the views.
THE Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) last week celebrated 50 years of service to the state.
Initially established in 1975, forming from the volunteer-based Civil Defence Organisation at the time, VICSES has built a legacy of dedication, providing critical emergency assistance to thousands of Victorians each year.
The Civil Defence Organisation which formed in 1950, evolved into VICSES on the 5 March, 1975 and remains as we know it today, playing a lead and critical role in managing oods, storms, rescues and supporting other emergency services.
VICSES is built on the dedication of people such as VICSES Bright Unit Controller Graham Gales, who has seen his fair share of complicated rescue responses since joining the alpine unit in 1983.
As a keen bushwalker who was drawn to VICSES due to volunteers’ involvement in
search and rescue operations throughout the Alpine Valley, Graham has excelled for more than 40 years in safely escorting patients from some of the state’s most challenging and di cult-to-reach terrain in arduous conditions, extricating injured motorists from vehicle crashes and clearing fallen trees throughout the local community.
Graham has also thrived in working alongside emergency service partners from throughout the North East and those deployed from metropolitan areas, cultivating a strong emergency relationship which ensures those who nd themselves in trouble in the remote North East are able to receive urgent care through a multi-agency response.
“It’s been so fantastic to see the growth of VICSES as an emergency service over the last several decades and I look forward to seeing the service continue to build into the future,” he said.
“I’m very proud of the camaraderie our volunteers showcase every time they turn out in support of their community and the life-saving emergency service we’re able to provide as a result.”
Behind the orange overalls, Graham takes great pride in leading a diverse group of 36 volunteers, each from di erent backgrounds and with di erent skillsets, who come together to provide a vital emergency service to their community, covering emergencies all the way to Mount Beauty.
VICSES members like Graham are the backbone of the organisation, serving communities 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year, and with 154 units across the state, VICSES operates with more
than 5000 volunteers.
“Whilst much has changed since 1975, our core values remain the same: to provide emergency assistance to Victorian communities 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year,” acting chief ofcer operations, Alistair Drayton said.
Overall, volunteer numbers are slightly up in each of the past two years, however many units are currently actively recruiting.
Myrtleford SES Unit Con-
troller David Coates said they currently have 12 active members, but are always on the lookout for more volunteers to keep the service running.
“The SES is as important as ever in helping the community and reliant on volunteers as it always has been,” he said.
For those interested in joining VICSES or learning more about becoming a volunteer, visit: www.ses.vic. gov.au/join-us.
PHOTO: Myrtleford SES Unit.
CRASH COLLABORATION: Bright SES Unit Controller, Graham Gales (orange) works with other emergency service personnel to rescue the occupants of this overturned truck.
TAKING SHAPE: The final stage of the Cloud 9 Restaurant redevelopment is on track for completion before the start of the 2025 snow season. PHOTO: Falls Creek Ski Li s
Michael Smith
HOW long have you lived here?
I have lived here on and off for three years coming from Queensland.
What do you like about living here?
Wide open spaces, friendly people, summer and winter sports.
Would you like to see any changes or additions?
No changes, keep the place as it is. Maybe more local
music events are needed. What do you do, your hobbies and interests?
My hobbies are fishing, mountain bike riding, exploring and snow boarding. I work at the Rocky Valley Cafe.
Where would you take visitors to showcase the area?
Up to Falls Creek in the winter. I love the snow and the gum trees up there.
Mick Bowers and Luna the chocolate Labrador
Where do you live?
We live in Myrtleford
How long have you been in the area?
Since 2007. My late wife and I lived in Melbourne and often visited friends who had a house in Porepunkah. The Happy Valley Pub was for sale at the time, so I bought it and became the publican there until 2016. Luna is the second chocolate lab I’ve had. She’s seven years old and she loves being out and about in town. What do you do for a living?
I’m retired now, but I sometimes play some gigs with friends in our band: ‘One Night Stand’. What are your hobbies and interests?
I’m still trying to find my
way after my wife Joanna’s death last year. Singing and music keep me sane. Everybody seemed to enjoy the Summer Series performance we did in January. They thought we were a really good act. What do you think makes the area unique?
The fresh air. I wake up and look out the window every morning and see the nearby hills, which are great. What would you change about the area?
A lot of things have changed since I’ve been here. Myrtleford has become a metropolis; it used to be a little place with one pub, now we’ve got three. I don’t think it needs to change. Myrtleford really is a lovely town to live in.
Judy Allen-Graham
MYRTLEFORD
Where do you live?
My husband and I are from Frankston on the Mornington Peninsula.
How often do you visit the area?
We visit annually. This summer, we’ve been up three times, with a group of four other friends. Every time we visit we train for marathons on the cycling trails, we run, we swim in the Ovens River here in town, or in Mount Beauty and relax by drinking local beers at the brewery. We also did a tour of Bright in December.
What do you do for a living?
I am a scientist working in clinical trials. I’m the
research coordinator of our department looking into cystic fibrosis.
What are your hobbies and interests?
Cycling, running, swimming, as well as eating and drinking.
What do you think makes the area so unique?
It’s a unique place because of the mountains and the beautiful landscape. I love it. What would you change about the area?
We usually stay in Mount Beauty because it’s a bit quieter there. We visit Bright often, but Mount Beauty has toned-down traffic, in comparison.
Project to lift health of alpine peatlands
A COLLABORATIVE project funded the federal government is looking to help keep alpine peatlands across the North East healthy.
North East Catchment Management Authority is working with scientists from La Trobe University and First Nations groups to monitor the peatlands for invasive weeds like so rush,
willow, lotus and oxeye daisy.
They’re also monitoring disturbances caused by feral animals and human activities.
Team members have spent recent weeks out in the eld, using both on-ground transects and drones, which help to identify weeds over large areas quickly and e ciently.
Peatlands in the Bogong High
Plains, Mount Bu alo, Dinner Plain and Dargo High Plains have recently being inspected, with Howitt/Moroka High Plains and Mount Baw Baw alpine region the focus this week to wrap up this six-week monitoring program.
Project team members have reported that some peatlands are still recovering from bush-
res, and the monitoring has highlighted the need for ongoing weed and pest control to keep these peatlands healthy.
Healthy peatlands are crucial as they sequester signi cant volumes of greenhouse gases and lter the headwater ows of the North East, East Gippsland and West Gippsland catchments.
Enjoy Mount Hotham multi-day hiking adventure
MOUNT Hotham is set to become the rst Australian destination for the iconic experience of a lifetime: the HIGHLANDER hiking adventure, with one to three day treks planned across various routes in the Alpine National Park.
Amidst the awe-inspiring terrain and across the highest mountain tops of the Victorian Alpine National Park, participants will be presented with the ultimate challenge.
Mount Hotham o ers diverse trails, unique landscapes and incredible adventures, making it the perfect choice for HIGHLANDER’s rst Australian journey.
With full support provided, adventurers can focus on the stunning surroundings, connect
with fellow hikers and enjoy the mental and physical rewards.
Starting and nishing at Mount Hotham Village, the routes will take explorers through epic trails, historic huts, old mines and the iconic views that Mount Hotham is famous for.
The multi-day hiking adventure will be held from April 4 to 6 this year, with registrations ending on March 30.
Powered by Spartan Race, HIGHLANDER is the world’s biggest hiking and camping adventure brand, with events held in over 26 countries.
For more information, visit: https://www. highlanderadventure.com/enus/mount-hotham.
EXPERIENCE: Attendees can sign up for one to three
Firewood collection areas open in state forests
VICTORIANS will are now able to collect free rewood for personal use from designated state forest rewood collection areas.
The autumn rewood season ends on 30 June, but collectors are reminded individual collection areas may close earlier if there is no more rewood available.
Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action director of forest and re operations, Aaron Kennedy, urged collectors to play it safe and check local weather conditions as well as their planned route before heading into the forest.
“When collecting, please drive only on formed roads, be aware of the environment around you and the safety of yourself and
others as trees may fall or drop limbs without warning,” he said.
Mr Kennedy said people can collect up to two cubic metres per person per day with a maximum of 16 cubic metres per household per nancial year.
He encouraged people who rely on rewood for heating and cooking to plan for their needs early.
“Firewood needs at least 8-12 months to cure and must be dry before use,” he said.
Collected rewood cannot be sold.
Financial assistance is available for people on low incomes who need to buy rewood, for more information visit www. m. vic.gov.au/ rewood/energy-concession-and-support.
Find your local collection area and information about collecting rewood at www. m.vic.gov.au/ rewood/ rewood-collection-inyour-region.
There are more than a dozen sites located within the Alpine Shire, all of which stipulate 4WD access.
Within designated collection areas, collectors can collect and cut wood that is on the ground due to natural fall or forest and re management works.
Heavy penalties apply to anyone who cuts down a tree, living or dead.
“Most people do the right thing and stick to the collection limits, but people should know authorised o cers from the conserva-
tion regulator, Parks Victoria and Forest Fire Management Victoria, will be patrolling to catch those who aren’t,” Mr Kennedy said.
Authorised o cers can issue nes of more than $769 to those caught breaking the rewood collection rules.
More serious o ending can result in maximum penalties of $9879 and/or 12 months in prison.
Authorised o cers can also seize chainsaws, trailers, vehicles, and equipment that’s used in the commission of o ending. Community members can nd out more about collecting rewood and report any suspected illegal rewood collection by calling 136 186.
Certified Practising Accountants – C.P.A. Accounting for small businesses and individuals.
4-1a Camp Street, Bright Phone: 5755 5105
E enquiries@brightaccounting.com.au
BELMORES CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
(formerly CRM Business Advisers) Certified Practising Accountants
Myrtleford, 1-7 Albert Street Phone: 5752 2288
Bright, 3 Ireland Street Phone: 5755 1327 www.belmores.com.au
amanda@tonerandmaylegal.com.au or jess@tonerandmaylegal.com.au
Phone Jenny on 57313305 or email jking@nemedia.com.au
ALPINE
day treks of the Alpine National Park with HIGHLANDER. PHOTO: Alpine Resorts Victoria
UNDER INSPECTION: Project team members have been monitoring the health of alpine peatlands in the North East over recent weeks.
EARLY ELECTION MODE:
Independent incumbent Helen Haines and Liberal candidate James Trenery are already in campaign mode, ahead of an imminent 2025 Federal Election date being called.
PHOTO: Image digitally created
Haines returns serve on Lib’s policy shots
LIBERAL candidate for Indi James Trenery has criticised the performance of Independent MP Helen Haines on the eve of a likely federal election being called.
While claiming that bad decisions by the Labor Government over the last three years has led to a high cost of living, he turned his attention to Dr Haines’ ability to bring change.
“The Member for Indi, Helen Haines, for three years has had no policy to get the cost of living under control,” he said.
“She has not delivered on issues that are important to us – in the past three years, Helen Haines has not got funding for local health services, like a new hospital on a new site in Albury Wodonga, nothing for Manseld Hospital or Alpine Health.
“In 2023 Helen Haines announced a housing policy, which she said could bring down house prices.
“In two years, not a single home
Haines’s cash call for rural health services
INDI Independent federal
MP Helen Haines has presented a package of measures focused on improving regional healthcare and workforce supply with the launch of her health policy ahead of an imminent federal election.
Dr Haines said in regional and rural Australia, the health needs of communities are growing, but health services are falling behind and leaving outdated facilities, insu cient training places and healthcare students struggling to train locally.
“Indi does not have enough doctors, nurses, psychologists and allied health workers to care for our community and the result is people waiting too long, spending too much and travelling too far to access necessary healthcare,” she said.
“I’m putting forward practical plans for the next government to provide the quality care our regions need.”
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
has been built under her policy, not a dollar spent.
“Helen Haines has been too busy focused on the wrong priorities, like campaigning for the divisive, nearly $500 million Voice referendum, and voting against things like minimum mandatory sentences for people convicted of terrorism o ences.
“Our communities are unhappy with this inaction and are looking for someone who can truly represent them.”
Dr Haines returned re, refuting Mr Trenery’s claims and said she’s proud to have represented the people of Indi as their Independent federal MP and she rmly stands by her track record.
“Voters are tired of misinforma-
tion and plain mistruths,” she said.
“I point the Liberal candidate to my cost-of-living policy announcements and my consistent work advocating for energy bill savings.
“In complete contradiction to his claims, more than $7.1 million in grants have been secured by local health services, on top of their regular funding, since my election.
“The people of Indi should be in no doubt about my priorities – for me it is always about what is best for the people of Indi.
“There’s no party boss from Sydney or Melbourne telling me how to vote, what to say, or what to think.”
When it comes to the cost-of-living, Dr Haines said a year ago she voted to bring on debate on a bill introduced by Bob Katter and Andrew Wilkie to hold the big supermarkets to account.
“In contrast, the Coalition didn’t even bother to show up,” she said.
“I have worked successfully with both of the major parties in government – the Coalition Morrison Government and now the Albanese Labor Government.
“I will take that same approach to the next election and base my actions and decisions on the best interests of Indi.
“The Liberal candidate has so far failed to outline any alternative policies for Indi; how he would in uence the national policy agenda, and how he would consult with the community in doing so.
“All funding that has owed to Indi is clearly outlined in my website and I encourage locals to take a look at the funding that has been delivered in their towns.”
Dr Haines also highlighted her enabling infrastructure policy to assist in housing development which both major parties have now adopted as their policy, if elected.
Mitch is Labor’s man in Indi election contest
By STEVE KELLY
LABOR has announced its candidate for Indi at the eleventh hour of the 2025 Federal Election being called.
Mitch Bridges, a 30-year-old social worker who has lived in Wodonga all of his life, announced his candidacy on Thursday.
Mr Bridges has been a member of the North East branch of the Labor Party since 2021 and he will take on incumbent Independent Helen Haines and Liberal candidate James Trenery in vying for the seat.
“I’m very keen to get out and about and in my work I work very closely to another organisation in Wangaratta, so I am across some of the real dire stu that is lacking in Wangaratta,” Mr Bridges said.
“Community services across the board are in a tight spot right now.
“In terms of family violence, we’ve made some strides but the mission needs to continue.”
Mr Bridges said he likes some of what Dr Haines has done during her
tenure because she has voted the way of Labor on numerous occasions.
“However, she has voted against Labor and she can’t make up her mind whether she supports policy like compulsory income management or not,” he said.
“She’s voted against abolishing the ABCC (Australian Building and Construction Commission) and I know there are loaded opinions about that but a very pro-worker MP wouldn’t have voted against that.
“I’ve seen while working in community services the power that a party of government has, and it’s all well and good that Helen can sit and vote for it, that’s great and we’d much prefer her than someone who is going to vote against everything, but at the end of the day systemic change comes from a party of government.”
Bringing down the cost of living is something Mr Bridges wants to get behind and he noted Labor’s $8.5 million Medicare policy, which includes increasing access to GP bulk-billing, as a way to al -
leviate household costs.
“What we’ve done already is targeted support and we’re supporting young families in public schools, PBS changes, and urgent care clinics - which is a state policy as well - and the biggest increase to rent assistance in some time,” he said.
“These are de ationary measures and at the end of the day in ation is at the core of the high cost of living.
“We’ve made some smart choices and there are probably more smart choices we can make next term.
“When Labor took over in 2022 there were a lot of systems failing and the ship we had to navigate was ‘where do we start’.
“I feel like we’ve done a great job of that so far, but we need to continue in government to continue the job.”
Indi has been held by an Independent since Cathy McGowan beat then Liberal incumbent Sophie Mirabella at the 2013 election.
Dr Haines has served two terms as MP for Indi since being elected in 2019.
The current government introduced a ‘prac payment’ policy to pay students studying courses such as nursing and midwifery when they undertake the long workplacements required to ful l their degrees.
Dr Haines will work towards extending this to other allied health professionals who are also required to do long placements to become quali ed.
Central to Dr Haines health platform is a $2 billion Building Rural Hospitals fund, including for new buildings, equipment and planning.
“The current funding system isn’t working for many rural and regional health services, across Indi and regional Australia,” she said.
“The Commonwealth provides billions of dollars in funding to city hospitals, but we don’t see the same commitment for rural health services that are essential to providing care close to home.”
Dr Haines’ announcement has been criticised by by Liberal candidate for Indi, James Trenery, who said it was another unfunded and uncosted policy.
“We need to ask serious questions around the so called ‘commitments’ Helen Haines is making to the people of Indi,” Mr Trenery said.
“Is the $2 billion hospitals fund announced today real money, funded in the budget?
“If not, how is the program funded?
“Is there a timeline for its delivery?”
Mr Trenery said two years ago Dr Haines announced “a bold vision to train and retain our regional health workforce”.
“So far, nothing has happened, no money has been delivered and the policy is at a standstill,” he said.
“In fact, this same policy has been re-announced again today.”
LABOR MAN: Wodonga resident
Mitch Bridges is the Labor candidate for Indi in the 2025 federal election.
Fleur de Lys - ideally located cottage
THIS three-bedroom cottage is ideally situated in the tree-lined location of Docker Street in Wangaratta.
The central open plan kitchen and living area enjoys plenty of natural light, facing out onto the covered back alfresco and secure courtyard.
High ceilings, real timber floors and fresh carpet to the bedrooms creates a cozy and charming cottage atmosphere.
At the front of the home you will find
two large bedrooms, both with built-in robes and conveniently adjacent to the main family bathroom.
Beyond the central living area, the spacious master bedroom at the rear of the cottage is complimented with a private ensuite.
Comfort is assured year-round with the inclusion of ducted gas heating, evaporative cooling and a reverse cycle split system in the main living area.
There is off-street parking for two ve-
hicles via a double carport, and secure additional storage with a tool shed, both accessible from the rear courtyard.
Set on approximately 364m2, this low maintenance cottage is conveniently located close to Northeast Health, train station and a short walk to Wangaratta’s CBD and all the lifestyle benefits it has to offer.
To arrange your private inspection, contact Garry Nash & Co today.
Share in up to $10,000 for
Greenslopes - rural lifestyle charm
DISCOVER this beautifully renovated lifestyle opportunity on 25 acres (approx) near Benalla.
Designed for family comfort, the property offers five bedrooms and two bathrooms with open plan living.
The master bedroom offers a flexible layout, while four additional bedrooms include built-in storage and ceiling fans.
The land is divided into seven paddocks, including two front house paddocks, offering ample space for the horse enthusiast to establish an arena, convert the outbuildings to stables, or create a charming hobby farm with a few head of cattle or sheep.
The property benefits from a two megalitre stock and domestic water license, supplemented by two natural dams, ensuring water security.
Practical features include a four-bay shed, solar security gate, and two Colorbond fenced yards with a separate pet enclosure.
A one-bedroom self-contained bun-
5 2 2
Agent | Garry Nash & Co Phone | 03 5722 2663
Price | $1,049,000
Land | 25 acres (approx)
Location | 229 Goomalibee Road, Benalla
galow offers additional accommodation.
Experience the best of both worlds at “Greenslopes”, a charming rural setting only five minutes from Benalla’s town centre where you can enjoy cafes, shopping, the beautiful rose gardens, art gallery and lake boardwalk. Call the team at Garry Nash & Co today to arrange your private inspection.
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Pick-up far from a workshy mate
■ A GENUINE WORKHORSE: Toyota WorkMate boasts improved safety and performance.
RETAINING that thought throughout a week with the workhorse failed to take the edge o initial utilitarian impressions: horses for courses of course.
Not that ‘old mate’ harked back to some long-past Luddite era.
Depending on the grade, the new WorkMate boasts a line up of automotive advances such as Bluetooth connectivity, Toyota Safety Sense suite of measures, Toyota Connected Services and power this and that.
Performance also is taken to new heights with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine with VActive technology.
There is still the tried-and-true 2.4-litre turbo-diesel available.
All are covered by Toyota’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty.
The WorkMate is scattered throughout the numerous variants of the most popular vehicle in Australia, the HiLux, straddling the 2.7L Single Cab Cab-Chassis RWD manual at $26,475, plus on-road costs, to the test car, the Workmate 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel Double Cab Pick-Up, six-speed auto, at $50,420.
STYLING
Nothing on the outside appears dated.
The HiLux Double Cab Pick-Up looks the goods in the company of any of its ubiquitous rivals.
Note: These prices do not include government
However, embellishment is sparse.
There’s not even a protective tub liner, just painted metal, as though it’s not afraid of hard work: a genuine ute.
A body-coloured grille surround is home to automatic headlamps, and halogen daytime running lights.
In recent upgrades, all pick-ups now carry a gloss black rear bumper and side mirrors, while conveniently for loading include a semiautomatic damped tailgate.
The ute rolls on 17-inch wheels rapped in 265/65 R17 tyres and is topped o by a modern shark fin antenna.
INTERIOR
Inside the double cab is seating for five, the driver and front passenger in bucket seats, the rear 60:40 split (only the latter accessible), all done out in quality fabric, the doors in black trim.
The floor is durable black vinyl, the test car adding optional removable rubber mats, a boon to keep the interior looking fresh.
There are power windows all round, the driver’s automatic, for access to fresh country air.
However, the air-conditioning is limited to manual operation and is not easy to operate on the move.
The steering wheel has manual tilt-and-reach function and has switches for phone, voice recognition and audio control.
There’s a separate power accessory socket.
Storage consists of a large glove compartment, plus a centre console with lid.
Cup holders are found in the dash.
ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
The test car relied on the lesser of two diesel engines – a 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel motor developing 110kW at 3400rpm and 400Nm between 1600 and 2000rpm.
It was mated with a sixspeed automatic transmission and put power to ground through all four wheels.
SAFETY
The HiLux attracted a fivestar ANCAP safety rating on 2019 testing.
Since then, the Toyota Safety Sense system has taken care of occupants through things such as lane departure alert, a pre-collision safety system with pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection, speed sign assist – a touch wayward at times – and high-speed active cruise control.
Seven airbags carry the passive safety banner.
DRIVING
The Toyota HiLux Workmate Double Cab Pick-Up is no town car.
With an unladen tub, the test vehicle was jarring on uneven suburban road surfaces and jolting over potholes.
A long(ish) jaunt in the test truck left some passengers ride weary.
The double wishbone/ leaf spring rigid axle set-up, I should imagine, is more suited to transporting chook food or
cattle fodder, the latter, perhaps, to be delivered to the remotest paddock.
The 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine attracted few complaints, without paying too much attention to the performance.
Toyota claims fuel consumption on the combined urban/highway cycle at 8.6 litres of diesel per hundred kilometres.
The test vehicle recorded 9.1 litres per 100 kilometres on mainly city and suburban driving.
The five metre-plus long juggernaut, with 12.6 metre turning circle and large steering wheel, is a devil to park in restricted shopping centre spots and regularly came up with a prominent white-line overhang.
A reversing camera went some way to easing any stress here.
On the other hand, ground clearance of 317mm and wheelbase of 3085mm makes light work of bashing about the bush.
A 3500kg braked and 750kg unbraked towing capacity is recommended.
Like the rest of the HiLux crowd, the WorkMate security systems cover remote keyless entry, power locks and alarm, plus engine immobilizer.
SUMMARY
With all those fancy-pant pick-ups parading the streets, it’s good to see there’s one genuine workhorse upholding the traditions of the ute.
NOW TAKING APPLICATIONS: x2 Cleaning positions soon to be available in Myrtleford.
Mansfield Courier
Phone: (03) 5723 0101
email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au
Booking deadline:
12noon Monday prior to print.
The Chronicle
Phone: (03) 5723 0101
email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au
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HARRIETVILLE TRONOH DREDGEHOLE
RESERVE INC.
Notice is given of a PUBLIC MEETING to be held at Harrietville Community Hall on April 1, 2025, commencing at 5pm.
The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or more than nine (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the Harrietville Tronoh Dredgehole Reserve for a term of three years. The current committee’s term will expire on June 30, 2025.
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Photographer Janet Watt went to the WDCA under 12s junior cricket grand final between Ovens Valley United Orange and Beechworth Wanderers to capture some action.
JUDD CARROL
COOPER CARROL
ROCZEN HILTON
BEAU SANDERSON
KOBY HARRIS
HUNTER HARRIS - PLAYER OF THE MATCH WITH UMPIRE NOAH BARLING
FRONT L-R: BEAU SANDERSON, COOPER CARROL, HUNTER HARRIS, RYLAN HARRIS, FREDRICK IVES.
FREDRICK IVES
HUNTER HARRIS
BENALLA BUSHRANGERS VS BEECHWORTH WANDERERS
BEECHWORTH WANDERERS 1ST INNINGS
Cull c:
Prebble lbw: Mitchell Wheelens
Austen Fendyk run out: Lucas Ham
Campbell Fendyk b: Cooper Binion
Ryan lbw: Ross Cavill
Scalzo c: Lucas Ham b: Ross Cavill
Cogger not out
Max Marek 0.2/0/2/1.
COLTS 1ST INNINGS
Thrum not out
Giggins c: Paddy McNamara b: Brady Bartlett
Crispin not out
Bowling: Jacob Schonafinger 1/0/2/0, Brady Bartlett 1/1/0/1.
Conor Brodie 9/5/9/1, Charlie Bull 8.2/2/26/1, Ross Cavill 17/3/68/4, Cooper Binion 10.1/0/57/1, Dale Stratton 4/0/27/0, Brayden Stepien 8.4/0/27/0, Mitchell Wheelens 13/1/47/1.
BENALLA BUSHRANGERS 1ST INNINGS
Brayden Stepien (c) not out 1* James Carboon not out 4*
0
0/5
WANGARATTA MAGPIES VS OVENS VALLEY UNITED
OVENS VALLEY UNITED 1ST INNINGS
Gregor Fraser c: Jack Davies b: Kyle Winter-Irving 18
Seamus Phillips (c) c: K Winter-Irving b: O Andrew 15
Noah White c: Jack Davies b: Oliver Andrew 6
Geeth Alwis c: Dean Simmons b: Fraser Ellis 18
Cooper Thomason c: Rhys Grant b: Oliver Andrew 5
Conner Forde b: Kyle Winter-Irving 3
Benjamin McMasters b: Oliver Andrew 2
Kane Fitzpatrick c: K Winter-Irving b: M Prestianni 14
Glenn White c: ? b: Zac Guilfoyle 17
Bailey Wyatt not out 8*
James Neary lbw: Kyle Winter-Irving 1
Extras 4
Total 10 / 111
Overs 66.1
Bowling: Oliver Andrew 16/6/18/4, Dean Simmons 5/0/16/0, Fraser Ellis 18/6/37/1, Kyle Winter-Irving 14.1/7/17/3, Matthew Prestianni 5/1/13/1, Rhys Grant 5/1/8/0, Zac Guilfoyle 3/3/0/1.
Matthew Ryan 1/0/5/0.
AGGRESSION: Cooper Thomason looks to take the bowlers on.
Gus Marek
Mulwala 7/181 Sam Lidgerwood 56 Vishal Sharma 2/19 def Benalla Bushrangers 8/159 Dylan Barber 44 Tyrn Docking 3/22. City Colts 6/185 William Petersen 50 Grace Kerwin 2/16 def by Wangaratta Magpies 10/222 Nic Bonwick 85 Dominick Morgan 4/29.
B GRADE: Beechworth Wanderers 9/137 Lewis Richards 68 Udaykiran Kommidi 3/18 def by Benalla Bushrangers 10/154 Leigh Pollard 79 Taylor Thomson 3/34. Greta 7/126 David Allen 34 Aden Graham 4/18 def Milawa 6/123 David Radeski 59 Lachlan Alexander 2/9. Ovens Valley United 9/253 Hayden Williams 45 Nixen Martin 4/45 def Delatite 10/120 Andrew Cook 26 Josh Harris 6/18. Rutherglen United 2/69 Adrian Roach 27 Nick Norris 1/5 def City Colts 9/68 Ross Moore 46 Kurt Schmidt 4/14. Merton 3/155 Jai Lerch-MacKinnon 64* Luke O’Brien 1/13 def Rovers United Bruck
City Colts 2/85 def Beechworth Wanderers Benalla Bushrangers 4/169 def Rovers United
Valley United 9/64. City Colts 10/96 def by Benalla Bushrangers Blue 10/111. UNDER 12 GOLD: Benalla Bushrangers Blue 6/86 def Yarrawonga Mulwala Rams 7/84. UNDER 12 BLUE: Ovens Valley United Orange 1/202 def Beechworth Wanderers 4/144.
SMART SHOT: Ben McMasters tucks one away behind square leg.
Alpine golfers show their skill
MYRTLEFORD GOLF CLUB
Saturday, 8 March
MYRTLEFRORD BAKEHOUSE STABLEFORD & SUPER & AMCR 71
Matthews Cleaning Encouragement Award: George Browne 23 pts c/b. Raffle Winner: Chris Rowney.
Thursday, 6 March
Myrtleford Bakehouse Stableford AMCR 73
A Grade Winner: Ann Hazeldine (33) 36pts. A Grade Runner Up: Kerry Newton (16) 33 pts.
Ball Winners: Linda Loftus (20) 29 pts c/b.
Foodworks NTPs - 8th: Linda Loftus, 14th: Sandra Piazza.
Wednesday, 5 March
Ovens & Murray Past Players - Stableford AMCR 71
Winner: Dennis Sandral (12) 39 pts. Runner Up: David McLeish (8) 37 pts c/b.
Ball Winners: P Smith 37, J West b36, G McMillan 36, R Graig 35, D Cummins 35, R Smith 35, R Heather 35, P Rolfe 34, M Tanner 34, W Rowney 34, T Chapman 34, G Pearce 34, G Veldman 33, N Hogan 33, I Wales 33, A Rockliff 33, B O’Donohue 33, P Howard 33, W Styles 32 c/b.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Wayne Styles, 8th: Ryan Smith, 14th: Spider Hancock, 16th: Trevor Squires.
Team Event Winners: Neville Hogan, Russell Heather, Greg McMillan and Les Waldron 104 pts.
Team Event Runners Up: Warren Rowney, Ronald Smith, Tony Chapman and Christopher 103 pts
Tuesday, 4 March
Drummond Monthly Medal Stroke AMCR 73
A Grade Winner: Linda Loftus (20) 93/73. A Grade Runner Up: Sandra Piazza (15) 89/74.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Faye McLees, 2nd 4th: M Curtis, 8th: C Sims, 14th: Helen Mummery.
MOUNT BEAUTY GOLF
CLUB
THE Victor Selway ‘Invitational’ played on Monday, 3 March was dominated by Steuart Snooks winning the comp along with both NTPs.
Keith Archibald hit a great shot to the back pin on the ninth to 10 feet, to then watch Snooks hit one to three feet the very next shot, and roll in the birdie.
This took Snooks to an excellent 20 points on the front nine and the lead.
Brett Williams, however, was playing great golf and he rolled in a long birdie putt on 17 to take the lead.
Snooks did it again and bounced his tee shot off the bank on 17 and watched it roll to six feet to win the NTP.
He rolled in the birdie putt and reclaimed the lead in the daily comp.
‘Snooksy’ was able to hang on to the lead on 18 to win with a sensational 39 points in front of Williams who had an excellent 38 points.
It was a great comp with four different players having the lead at some point.
The ladies split up again to play the back nine and the 18 holes on Wednesday, 5 March.
The back nine was won by Lynda Barter on a countback from Liz Harvey with 16 points apiece.
The 18 holes was won by Helen Whittaker with 39 points from Anne Archibald with 37 points.
Saturday, 8 March saw the ladies play a par comp with Lynda Barter winning with +2 from Helen Whittaker with +1.
NTP on the seventh, second shot, was Helen Whittaker.
The back nine was played by the men on Wednesday, 5 March which was won by Ivan Mock with 21 points from Don Mason on 19 points.
A total of six players ended on 18 points to get a ball each in the ball comp: Matt Richardson, Craig Docherty, Macca Deans, Ben Ritson, Victor Selway and Dave Etherton.
NTP on the 17th was Allan Retallick,
and the 18th was Ron Gallagher.
The men had a Stableford round on Saturday, 8 March, with blue tees made available for any who wished to practice before the four rounds of the club championships starting this weekend.
Stuie Jelbart put in a cracking score of 41 points to ward off any contenders.
Anthony Boschetti almost got there with his 40 points, and Don Mason managed 39 points to round out the podium.
Balls were given out to Steuart Snooks and Allan Retallick (37 points each) while 36 points gave Andrew Greenfield and Peter Hertzog their ball each.
NTP on the seventh was Dave Etherton, along with the Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post Office.
The ninth was Peter Hertzog, the 17th went to Don Mason, with Rick Biesboer taking the money on the 18th.
BRIGHT COUNTRY GOLF CLUB
THE lesson for the week is, do you know the real meaning of the word golf?
According to the Oxford dictionary, it goes something like this:
“Golf noun; a game played outside on grass in which a player tries to hit a small, hard ball into a series of nine or 18 small holes using a long thin stick.”
From observations, a thin stick would be preferable to using a golf club, as it would be easier and more environmentally friendly than having to find your club when it was thrown away in disgust into the bushes.
But, on to the results for this week at the Bright Country Golf Club.
Monday, 3 March was all gender Veteran’s Stableford competition.
A group of 15 players teed off and to everyone’s delight, ‘The Borsch’, Ray
DOMINANT: Steuart Snooks was in control in the Victor Selway ‘Invitational’ at Mount Beauty.
Borschmann, fell over the line from Glenn O’Connell to take home the winner’s prize - Ray Borschmann 18 H/C 35 points C/B, Glenn O’Connell 18 H/C 35 points C/B.
Ball winners: Robert Taylor 35 points, Mark Stephenson 33 points, Graham Badrock 31 points.
NTPs - 3rd: Jenny Richter, 6th: Ray Borschmann, 16th: Ray Borschmann. Tuesday, 4 March, Ladies’ stroke event.
Under hot and dry conditions, the results proved not every time someone will play under their handicaps.
Winners: Elizabeth Barker 25 H/C nett 73, Dianne Anders 27 H/C nett 76.
Ball winners: Carol Burgess nett 80, Bernie Wickes nett 82.
NTPs - 3rd: Dianne Andres, 6th: Elizabeth Barker, 16th: Carol Burgess.
Tuesday 4 March, the chicken run was on the front nine, and the golfer taking home the chook this week was Tyler Thomason.
Playing off a 12 handicap, he returned to the club house with a fine 20 points.
Next was Felix Blazek 11 handicap with 19 points.
Ball winners: Lauren Velicki 18 points, Shaun Paul 16 points - all the rest, thanks for coming.
Due to Wednesday and Thursday last week at the Bright Golf Club being taken over by the annual Victorian Seniors Masters Championships, the regular Thursday Men’s Stableford competition was relegated to Friday.
Although some of the regular golfers were struggling to work out what day it was, as when retired, all the days in the week blend into each other, but there were a couple of outstanding results.
Winner, and by a fair margin, was Neil Gill from Harrietville.
Playing off 24 handicap, but not for
much longer, he returned with a wonderful 43 points.
Other winners were Troy Stevens 15 H/C 40 points, followed by Cameron Wickes scratch, 37 points C/B. Ball winners: Ross Heydon 37 points, James Neylon 36 points, James McFadyen 35 points c/b, Andrew Badrock 35 points.
NTPs – 3rd: Mac Simpson, 6th: Mac Simpson, 11th: Ross Heydon, 16th: Rod Brown.
The winner of the chook run was Troy Stevens with a fine 22 points.
The proud winner of the NAGA Award with a truly sad 19 points was Eddy Wojniusz.
On Friday, 7 March, the ladies played a nine-hole stroke event, front nine. The winner was Giselle Braithwaite with a nett 37.
Runner up was Lucy Snowden with a nett 40, and NTP on the sixth was Lucy Snowden.
On Saturday, 8 March, 74 players competed in the second round of the men’s four ball Stableford Championship.
Playing in pairs, there were some astounding results, while, for some unknown reason, four players were not accounted for at the end of the day. With hardly any water in the Ovens River, we can only assume they got lost in the bush.
The winners were: Andrew Badrock 14 H/C and David Kelly 9 H/C 46 points, Kalum Porteous 10 H/C and Brett Gilligan 15 H/C 45 points, Thomas Hunt 14 H/C and Tommy Alkemade 22 H/C 45 points.
Ball winners: Darren Kelly and Matt Kelly 45 points, Jack Bradshaw and Matt Bradshaw 44 points.
NTPs – 3rd: Bill Stonnill, 6th: Felix Blazek, 11th: John Walsh, 16th: Mick Dunne.
The Bright Golf Guru history lesson of the week: were you aware that in 1911, a nine-hole golf course was officially opened at Mount Buffalo?
The course was surveyed and constructed under the supervision of Carlo Catani.
Catani engaged professional golfer, Richard ‘Dick’ Banks to lay out the course. The fairways were sown with alpine grass seed specially imported from Italy.
When you arrive up on the plateau, and reach the Gap, the area below all the way to Lake Catani was the location - you can almost envision the layout of the course.
Rigoni’s legacy stays in the family
ONE of the most prestigious awards to be won at the Myrtleford Golf Club is the Chris Rigoni Perpetual Shield, and the most recent edition of the competition has a family feel to it.
Will (22) and Harry (19) McKerral became the youngest ever duo to win the Chris Rigoni Shield, named in honour of their greatuncle.
“Chris Rigoni was a previous captain, treasurer and club champion here in Myrtleford,” Myrtleford Golf Club president George Browne said.
“To win this Shield, you have to play as a pair, and Will and Harry are the youngest ever to win the board event.
“The rst round of the Shield, the boys hit a high score for all rounds at 48 points - that is a fantastic score.
“Then they had to go through three further qualifying rounds, which they won.
“They might hope to be Club Champions one day and go on the North East Tour.”
While still in their infancy of their gol ng careers, the McKerral boys aimed to retain the Shield next year.
“We’ll try to win the Shield again next year - that would be good, back-to-back victories,” Harry said.
“We’re mostly self-taught and we help each other on the course.”
FAMILY LEGACY: Will (le ) and Harry McKerral won the Chris Rigoni Shield, named a er their great-uncle.
Myrtleford Savoy Soccer Club
Stormin’ Savoy ready for another year
By NATHAN DE VRIES
AFTER a truly remarkable season last year, 2025 is shaping up to be just as massive for the Myrtleford Savoy senior men’s side.
Savoy won the league last year and were unbeaten for the majority of the season, making it through to two cup finals in the process.
While they didn’t come up in either of their grand finals, that’s only stoked their hunger.
Coach Jayden Vescio is back, and he’s recruited well to augment the side’s depth and give them the best chance to improve on an already astronomically successful period for the side.
Connor Caponecchia, Josh Zito, Azia Feltrin, Matt Park, Kaden Saric and James Purcell are all back in the blue this season, while newcomers to the club Tyler
SEASON 2025
Curran and Tom Morrison have been welcomed with open arms.
“I think we’ll be full again, we’ve had a little bit of changeover – from the thirds, reserves and seniors we’ve probably had about nine or 10 move on and probably 12 or 13 come in,” Vescio said.
family who live in Myrtleford and does a fair bit of work in the area, so he’ll be a massive in for us.
a little bit, the chance to win some silverware.”
After coming so close to glory multiple times last season, Vescio has his sights set on domination.
were unbeaten after 10 rounds, but only won the league by three points.
“First and foremost is winning another league, being able to be the best team over the best part of six months,” he said.
“It was certainly a grind, and the top-up of our list with higher quality, that’s definitely the goal.
“Tyler Curran comes in, he’s going to be my assistant coach for first grade, he previously coached Twin City last year and spent the last five or six years up in Newcastle in the NPL.
“Tom Morrison comes across from Twin City, he’s got some
“Last year I came back and we scratched the surface, had a few boys jump on off the back of last year, and a few players I had some good contact with that showed their interest in coming over, and a few of the younger boys I coached when they were 13-14 years old who have moved back to the area.
“A lot of them have missed out on our success when I last coached so they’re chasing that success, and I think that drives it
“We battled last year in depth quality to do that – I think I’ve won three or four leagues as a coach and player, and last year was probably the most satisfying one because we had to grind our way there.
“There was a stage where we
“Finals football is finals football, there are no second chances, so you’ve got to be good and see where your list’s at come finals, but I think our goal is to cement ourselves in the top two or three and be really pushing for another league.”
Savoy host Boomers this Sunday to kick off their season, with the match set for a 3pm start.
READY TO PLAY: COACH JAYDEN VESCIO, ASSISTANT
COACH TYLER CURRAN, PLAYERS JOSHUA ZITO AND CONNOR CAPONECCHIA AHEAD OF THEIR FIRST LEAGUE MATCH OF ����. PHOTO: PHOEBE MORGAN
Savoy strong behind the scenes ahead of 2025 AWFA season
By NATHAN DE VRIES
WHILE their teams will take on the best in the Albury Wodonga Football Association, Myrtleford Savoy Soccer Club
president Anthony Zanghellini said the club was in an incredibly strong position.
The club has been working hard basically since the final siren from last season, continuing the wonderful work the club has been engaged in for years.
“Pretty much from the time games ceased, we invested a lot of time and effort with our grounds committee into repairing our ground, which was pretty beat up last year and has been for a few years,” Zanghellini said.
“As a club, we’ve invested a great deal of time and money into it, and we’re pleased to say the grounds have come up a treat and look to be in outstanding shape for the year ahead.
“It’s a returning committee from last year, we’ve got two new faces who have jumped on board.
“The boys have been busy in the canteen getting things changed around in there, a new menu.
“Everyone’s in a good space, everyone’s fit and firing, all the teams have come together strongly and we look forward with bated breath to the start of the season.”
The community has been rallying around the club for years, with more and more sponsors joining up every season.
This influx of sponsorship support has allowed the club to fill the fence line of their second ground with sponsorship boards.
“With sponsorships, we’ve taken a step up on last year, we’re tracking towards 20 new sponsors just this year alone,” Zanghellini said.
“It hasn’t been a case where
we’ve taken our foot off the pedal – in fact, we’ve probably put it down harder.
“In rough figures the club’s got around about 80 sponsors - when you’re talking about a soccer club in a town of 3500 people, to have that many sponsors, that buy-in is there.
“We want to make the club sustainable, where financially there’s no reliance on grants, there’s no reliance on government assistance, where it’s purely a case where we can make it sustainable through what comes in through sponsorships and donations every year.”
Zanghellini and the committee wish their teams all the best for the upcoming 2025 AWFA season.
SENSATIONAL SEASON: MYRTLEFORD SAVOY SOCCER CLUB IS LOOKING FORWARD TO A BRILLIANT SEASON ON AND OFF THE PLAYING FIELD.
Experience growing for Savoy women
By NATHAN DE VRIES
IT’S shaping up to be a truly massive season for Myrtleford Savoy’s senior women’s side, who have augmented an already strong side with some handy inclusions.
Last season’s quarter finalists have been hard at work since late October on the preseason track, putting in a power of work both with skills and fitness to surge up the ladder in 2025.
Co-coaches Tom Scott and Will Robinson-Dunn return for another season, and are eager to get the most out of their charges.
“Our girls are another year older, they’re excited for the season, they’re training hard, so I
think we’ll have a really good year this year,” Scott said.
“We’ve done a lot of skill-based training just to get the touch, and in some sessions these girls tick towards 10km, they’re fit, they’re in a really good position
“We’ve been able to pick up a couple of new players this year, a few from around the league and girls who have moved up from Melbourne, so we’ve been able to put some more senior depth into our group.
“Our girls are another year older, they’re excited for the season.”
A limiting aspect on the team last year was a lack of depth, which has been addressed with some major signings from within the league.
Scott said the signings will bring leadership capabilities and some impressive scoring potential up top.
“We have Georgia Mahoney from Wangaratta, she’s jumped on board, as well as Collette Suter and Alessia Colanzi, and Sherry Brown is coming back, but other than that we’ve kept our main squad,” he said.
“Those four girls have put a good attacking force in our side, it was a big area we tried to work on, especially in the second half of the season, trying to score some goals.
“It’s been a main focus this preseason, having the courage to shoot, that mindset, so we’ve taken a leaf out of the senior
men’s book with how they’re playing and how they train.”
With the season looming large over Savoy Park, enthusiasm remains as high as ever, and the squad is eager to put some wins on the board.
“Now we’ve gotten a bit of a feel for the league and how fierce the competition can be, so we really want to push for that top four,” Scott said.
“We think we’ve got the ability to do it, we know there have been a lot of changes in the league around the Albury teams so I think we should be able to see some good success this year.
“They’re just excited, they’re just ready to get it going.”
We think we’ve got the ability to do it, we know there have been a lot of changes in the league around the Albury teams so I think we should be able to see some good success this year.
� CO�COACH TOM SCOTT
HUGE YEAR: �FROM LEFT� CO�COACH WILL ROBINSON�DUNN, GEORGIA MAHONEY, ALESSIA COLANZI, JESS STRINGER, GABBY PAGLIA, LILY NOTARIANNI AND CO�COACH TOM SCOTT CAN’T WAIT TO GET STUCK INTO THE ACTION.
PHOTO: PHOEBE MORGAN
MiniRoos numbers booming at Savoy
By ANTHONY ZANGHELLINI, MiniRoos coordinator
APPROACHING the start of the 2025 MiniRoos program, we can happily report to having a more advanced program for the kids this year.
In 2024, our attention was on consolidating the basics we started with in 2023we now look to get regular games into the children the next 6 months.
We have a total of 10 gala days with our friends from Mount Beauty, Yackandandah and Bright, of which five will be at the MSSC.
We have also added games against a number of AWFA-
affiliated clubs including Wangaratta, Cobram and SS&A Boomers. We expect somewhere between 16-18 Saturdays this year will be days dedicated to games.
We usually play three games per gala day, so when you do the sums there is no shortage of game time ahead.
Coinciding with the start of the AWFA competition this Sunday, our MiniRoos are all invited to come along and play minigames in between breaks of play on the day.
We want the kids heavily involved with our juniors and senior grades from day one, and we have made an extra effort at club level to
get our junior and senior grades coordinated at assistant level.
We have excellent continuity with our coaches with the core group of myself, Danny [Perez], Nathan [Mirt], ‘Moscow’ [Anthony Mancuso] and Marco [Mancuso] returning once more.
With recent projects around the club including major improvements to the playing service and beautification works, it’s a pretty special place for the kids to call home.
For more information, please visit the MiniRoos Myrtleford Facebook page or contact MiniRoos coordinator Anthony Zanghellini on 0439 952 998.
YOUNG GUNS: MYRTLEFORD MINIROOS COACHES ANTHONY ZANGHELLINI �FAR RIGHT� AND DANNY PEREZ �FAR LEFT� WITH SOME OF THE FUTURE STARS OF THE MYRTLEFORD SAVOY SOCCER CLUB. PHOTO: PHOEBE MORGAN
Myrtleford claim Midweek A2 pennant grand final
CONGRATULATIONS
to Myrtleford’s Midweek A2 side on winning the competition’s grand nal.
The 2024/2025 Ovens and Murray Pennant season started full of hope for Myrtleford as all levels of the competition were strongly represented.
The nals campaign however had been disappointed until the very last game of the year where Myrtleford nally shone through.
Playing against Club Mulwala at the Wangaratta Bowls and Sports Club, Myrtleford started slowly but with a steady workman-like approach.
Apart from a small surge by Club Mulwala later in the game, the result was never in doubt, with Myrtleford winning 67 shots to 53.
Greg Robbin’s team with Marino Candusio, Denis Piazza and Cheryl Lewis won their rink 22/13.
Michael Dwyer’s team also chipped in, with Michelle Van Praagh, Wally Dunstone and Jim Murtagh winning 29/2.
The team of Mary Paton, Lance Symons, Royston Smith and Graeme Piazza played ercely but went down narrowly 16/19.
Ovens Valley United have 111 to defend in final match day for A grade
■ From back page
“I think the batters did okay, but I was pretty disappointed with the out eld,” he said.
“The wicket was okay but the out eld was very slow – for the whole innings, just four boundaries, because the out eld was very slow.
“There was no real value, on a normal out eld, the score might be 180.
“Everyone got themselves in, they played the majority of balls – the wicket was good, it was the out eld, and if we get the same out eld this week, we’ll easily defend the score.”
The Tigers will need to be on song with the ball this coming Saturday, 15 March, if they want to come away with the win.
The Magpies boast two of the top ve batters in the league, with Cooper Matheson (471 runs at 36.23) and Oliver Andrew (374 runs at 28.77) sure to pose a signi cant threat.
Alwis said it was about rounding out the year on a positive note.
“Our mindset is to win the game and nish on a high, we want to nish on a win and take the positive into next season,” he said.
“The boys know what could’ve been done right, we couldn’t make enough partnerships in the season, but is this game even with the slow out eld, the boys managed to get small partnerships.
“We’re de nitely heading in the right direction in the two-dayers, because compared to last year, we’re batting 60 or 70 overs the majority of the time.”
Play is set to resume at 1pm at Wangaratta Showgrounds on Saturday, 15 March.
Power take stock after season
A SEASON of on-field transition could not bring about a change in results for Mount Beauty United Cricket Club.
After bowing out in the previous season’s preliminary final, the Power’s first eleven struggled to recapture the success of what most at the proud club were hoping for and expecting, finishing in sixth place on the Cricket Albury Wodonga District table with three wins and nine losses, then losing its first final against league powerhouse Kiewa earlier this month.
First-time captain, yet experienced leader Greg McLennan was forced to deal with a raft of changes and unpredictable player availability in his first season at the helm, with 25 players featuring in the side.
This certainly tested the club’s depth in all departments – legend Frank Iaria stepped down a grade to captain the second eleven; Paddy Dodd, Ethan Brown, Nick Iaria and Adam Whelan all only played handful of games due to work commitments, plus key players Toby Derrick and new recruit Jack Nieuwerth were hampered by long-term injuries.
In what was once a dependable strength of past Power line-ups, skipper Greg McLennan (487 runs and five half-centuries) was the sole Mount Beauty batter to reach 200 league runs, while Graham Beer was the only other player to average more than 20.
Shannon Wilson was a mainstay of the Power’s attack and added nine wickets to lead the way for his side.
Whilst admitting that there were some challenges faced in the recently-completed season upon reflection, McLennan took a lot of positives from the year with the return of some important players.
“We didn’t put what we think is our strongest side on the park once this year, nor did we have the same team two weeks in succession, so that was a challenge,” McLennan said.
“That said, we showed on a few occasions that our best can test any other side.
“Getting Steve Pask back at the club was a big plus for us – he is a natural talent and a great guy to have around the club.
“The continued development of Nick Iaria’s batting is also very exciting – he has historically played as a bowler, but he has a good eye and excellent hitting power and as his technique and confidence improves, he can be a top contributor for us, as he was in several games this year.
ROUND RESULTS ROUND RESULTS
(Top Scorers: J.Key 15, M.How 10, H.Buckingham 5)
Scorers: J. Kelly 9, B. Harvey 8, B. Buckland 7)
(Top Scorers: O. McGahan 12, C. Keatch 11, C. Potter 9)
“Another player coming back is Shannon Carter who eased himself back into cricket via B Grade this year.
“By the end of the season he was dominating games with both bat and ball – he is a genuine A Grade quality player and was the hero of our 2011-12 premiership and we hope he will have a big impact in A Grade next
“The key for next year will undoubtedly be getting our best team playing in the majority of games, and we are also hopeful of getting some other former players back.
“We certainly have no shortage of talent and if we get our best team playing each week, we’ll be back up at the pointy end come finals time.”
Smith, (front, from le ) Lance Symons, Denis Piazza, Cheryl Lewis, and Mary Paton.
POWER STRIKE: Conner Forde gets ono the front foot.
DRIVEN: Kane Fitzpatrick belts one down the ground.
SHOT: Glenn White cracks one through the o side.
PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie
Noah’s all-round passion for cricket is thriving
By GRACE FREDSBERG
LOCAL cricketer Noah White has certainly had a breakout season with the Ovens Valley United Cricket Club in 2024/25, which punctuates a promising future ahead in the sport.
Just days after he turned 14, he made his debut in the club’s A grade squad.
And the 16-year-old league champion player scored a century in under 16s this season.
Noah’s interest to get involved in cricket was ingrained in him from a young age.
“My older brother and sister played it when they were younger I always came along,” he said.
“My dad always had some form of cricket or sport on at home, so I just grew up with it.”
Noah plays top order batting allrounder - proficient in both batting and bowling.
He recently changed to off-spin from bowling pace at the beginning of the year - a technique which involves spinning the ball with the fingers rather than utilising pace as with fast bowling.
Noah’s affinity for cricket was only bolstered through his “decent handeye coordination” and his ability to detect the pitch of the ball quickly.
He also said that playing footy through the off-season has improved his overall fitness levels, setting him up well for the cricket season.
On the field, he said that he strives to perform to the best of his ability.
He thanked his dad for driving him the extra distance to all his commitments.
“My dad has been good to me, driving me all around the place even though he’s busy with work,” he said. Looking forward, he said he hopes to improve his running form with the bat, as well as improve his performance consistency.
Noah said there is still “plenty to work on” with his spin and he hopes to gain new bowling variations over the winter season.
Noah White sends a delivery down while playing for Ovens Valley United Cricket Club this season.
PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
SAVOY SEASON STARTS
The 2025 AWFA season is finally here, and Myrtleford Savoy Soccer Club’s senior women’s team is raring to go, with (back, from le ) co-coach Will RobinsonDunn, Georgia Mahoney, Alessia Colanzi, co-coach Tom Scott, (front, from le ) Gabby Paglia, Jess Stringer, and Lily Notarianni eager for the first whistle.
■ Full MSSC season preview pages 21-24.
PHOTO: Phoebe Morgan
One last time
THE 2024/25 A grade season will come to an end this weekend for the Tigers. Looking to end on a high note with no chance of making the finals, Ovens Valley United were sent in to bat against the Magpies and dismissed for only 111 runs at the Wangaratta Showgrounds on Saturday.
Gregor Fraser and Seamus Phillips started o well, digging in against the challenging Magpies’ bowling attack on a ground
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
which o ered little value for shots.
Phillips lasted 36 deliveries before he was caught o the bowling of Oliver Andrew for 15 runs, with Noah White lasting just eight deliveries before he
edged one to the keeper on six runs.
Reeling at 2/42, the batting talisman of the season, Geeth Alwis, was at the crease.
The Magpies’ bowling went to another level, peppering a di cult line and length and made it extremely hard to score freely.
Alwis kept fighting hard
to find the runs, cracking off two of only four boundaries scored in the innings.
Unfortunately for Ovens Valley United, their leading run-scorer would fall for 18 o 49 deliveries.
The middle order wouldn’t make much of an impact on the scoreboard, unable to pierce the field or get it to the rope with
any sort of regularity.
Cooper Thomason chewed up 57 deliveries for just ve runs, Connor Forde was bowled for three of 31, while young Ben McMasters was dismissed for two o 16 balls.
The Tigers were in trouble at 7/74, with just the bowlers to come.
The tail wagged slightly, with Kane Fitzpatrick (14 o
40) and Glenn White (17 o 46) combining for 20 before Fitzpatrick was caught in the 55th over.
Bailey Wyatt would remain unbeaten on eight from 35 deliveries.
Alwis said while the scoreboard made for grim reading, it was a fairly decent score on a di cult out eld.
