BRIGHT Chamber of Commerce has launched its new Retail Trail Map for Bright, offering locals and visitors alike an easy guide to 59 local traders in town. Chamber representative Amanda Hore (left) and Bowerbird Bright’s Lenore Harris (right) helped Halls Gap visitors Paul and Margot put the map to good use on Monday. Story page 3
THE Bright Hospital Op Shop has made an incredible impact on local healthcare with donations exceeding $90,000 during 2024–2025, funding critical equipment for Alpine Health’s facilities across Bright and also at Mt Beauty and Myrtleford.
This year’s donations have gone towards the purchase of a new ECG machine for Bright Hospital Urgent Care, fall mats in Hawthorn Village to improve safety in aged care, and electronic medication trolleys to enhance care delivery and medication management at Bright, Mt Beauty and Myrtleford hospitals.
Alpine Health CEO,
Rhys Gloury said these investments support Alpine Health’s aged care facilities and bolster health services in the region, making a real di erence to patient safety and care quality.
“We’re incredibly proud of the role the op shops play in supporting local health,” Mr Gloury said.
“These donations are made possible by the generosity of our community, both those who donate items and those who volunteer their time.”
The Bright Hospital Op Shop, along with the other independent Hospital Op Shops in Myrtleford and Mt Beauty, turn pre-loved treasures into life-changing support for Alpine Health and other vital emergency services.
With National Volunteer Week taking place this week until 25 May, Mr Gloury said it is the perfect time to recognise and celebrate the incredible volunteers who power the op shops and to encourage new faces to join the team.
Members of the public can get involved by:
• Volunteer your time: there are many roles available in the shops and they’re always looking for friendly faces.
• Shop local: every dollar spent at your local op shop goes back into the community, and;
• Support sustainability: buying second-hand keeps
money,” Bright Hospital Op Shop president, Eileen Hunter said.
“It’s about building community, supporting sustainability and giving everyone a chance to be part of something meaningful.”
For more information on how to volunteer, contact Bright Hospital Op Shop on (03) 5755 5111 or at brightopshop@gmail.com and ask for either president Eileen Hunter or secretary Sue de Carheil. Or drop into the op shop next time you are in town.
By PHOEBE MORGAN
LAST weekend saw Myrtleford kick o La Fiera in earnest, with huge crowds, joyous music, delicious food and drink and entertainment lined up for all.
Following ‘La Festa’ on Saturday, celebrations continued with ‘Il Mercato’ on Sunday morning to add an Italian air to the town’s monthly market.
An almost overwhelming number of people attended, as lines for some stalls were so long they blocked foottra c within the Piazza.
The atmosphere of ‘Il Mercato’ truly made Myrtleford into an Italian village for the day, as attendees spoke in Italian as they walk past, danced with gusto to the ‘Top Shelf Duo’: Dean Canan and Lisa Asta’s musical performances and enjoyed the beautiful autumn sunshine, while diggingin to delectable local treats.
“It’s de nitely busier than our monthly farmers’ markets,” Darren Edwards from the Microgreens stall said.
“You don’t need to know how to speak Italian, you can enjoy the atmosphere.
“It’s a lovely autumn day to have a festival.”
The Humphries family from Melbourne decided to drop in to attend their rst La Fiera, while visiting family in Bright.
“We’ve only just arrived; it’s all new and exciting,” Justine Humphries said.
“We de nitely want to go to the Old School Museum and check out the displays.”
Mark Humphries said they had just enjoyed ‘the best sausage rolls and pies they have ever eaten’.
“We’ll go and tell the stallholder that on our way past,” he said.
La Fiera spokesperson, John Costenaro, said attendees have embraced the whole weekend.
“I see people have come back again a er ‘La Festa’ yesterday,” he said.
“We’re very pleased with the marked increase in visitation from locals and especially elsewhere.
“We’ve been told peripheral towns have had their hotels booked-out this weekend.
“I’m con dent to say that we’ve had 5000 people attend over the weekend, across all events.
“That level of visitation has created a lot of economic stimulus for the town and surrounds, which is a good thing as people are staying on and enjoying their time in our region.
“We’ve received overwhelming support on social media.
“Of course, the La Fiera committee will very shortly be starting to plan for next year.
“We’ll build from here and keep a similar format, however, we’ll look to freshen up and surprise the community with new events.
“We’re very grateful for all the volunteers who have helped; it really makes the festival, the event would not occur without them.”
By PHOEBE MORGAN
THE contract for the sale of the Dederang Hotel has recently been nalised, with a number of new owners, including a pair of Australian cinematic royalty.
Shane Jacobson and fellow screenwriter and director, Dean Murphy, along with a number of silent partners have recently purchased the hotel, with plans to continue running the iconic regional pub.
Mr Murphy grew up in the Kiewa Valley and has eaten at the pub with his family since he was young.
ing the Dederang Hotel is and
how important it is to the community and suggested they should buy it,” Mr Jacobson’s manager, Nicole Bardy said.
“Shane took his word for it and they did.
“Having now spent time there, Shane too has fallen in love with the pub and the amazing people who frequent it.
“The pub is being refurbished but will continue to deliver its cold beer and favourite meals during this period.”
The Dederang Hotel rst went to market in late 2023, for
usual to settle in at rst and will be assisted by the current owner and operator across the rst few months.
“There were no unexpected delays or challenges in executing this sale,” managing director, McDonald Hospitality Brokers (MHB), Dan McDonald said.
“We had a volume of consistent enquiry across the hotel marketing campaign; as connecting the right buyer with right hotel is a process, not an event and can take some time in certain circum-
vendor has owned and operated the hotel for 35 years.
“They are very pleased with the outcome of the sale and the changing of the baton to the new owners.
“From our perspective here at MHB we are very pleased with the outcome and delivering a sale for our valued clients.
“We have recently also settled on the sale of the Yackandandah Hotel also are currently marketing hotels for sale in Wangaratta, Myrtleford and Moyhu and Whorouly so its pleasing for us
have recently acquired Dederang’s iconic hotel.
LEGACY Wood Day, one of Myrtleford’s annual traditions since the end of World War II, was held once again last Sunday, 18 May.
The event brought together around 30 volunteers from the Myrtleford Lions and RSL clubs, as well as players from the Myrtleford Football and Netball Club.
From 8am until noon, volunteers cut, split and loaded firewood for 15 deliveries, with additional supplies stored for the
winter months ahead.
The wood, generously donated by a farmer from Carboor, was transported to Myrtleford with the logistical support of Greenfreight.
This local event exemplifies the spirit of community collaboration. The shared efforts of the Myrtleford Combined Services Committee and the Myrtleford Football Netball Club underscore the importance of supporting residents in need as this winter approaches.
BRIGHT has launched its very own free Retail Trail Map to help both locals and visitors explore the town’s unique shopping scene.
Featuring 59 local retailers, the pocket-sized map o ers an easy-touse guide to the best shops and boutiques the area has to o er.
Funded by the Bright Chamber of Commerce, the map has been created by local artist Mat Vaughan and highlights not only the variety of shops within the town, but also the picturesque setting and welcoming atmosphere that make Bright a popular destination for shopping dining, and leisure.
Chamber representative Amanda Hore said members wanted to create a resource that celebrates Bright’s incredible local businesses and makes it easy for visitors to experience everything the town has to o er.
“Mat Vaughan’s artwork brings the map to life, giving people a real sense of what makes Bright such a special place to shop and visit,” she said.
“We’re thrilled to support our lo-
cal economy with this initiative.”
The map is designed to t neatly into your pocket and is available for free at multiple locations throughout Bright, including the Alpine Visitor Information Centre in Bright, participating retail stores, and local accommodations.
Retailers featured on the map represent a diverse mix of goods and services, from fashion and homewares to artisanal products and specialty stores.
Ms Hore said the initiative was developed by the chamber’s retail user group sub-committee.
“The sub-committee model gives chamber members an opportunity to drive industry speci c activities that bene t them,” she said.
“The chamber hopes that the Retail Trail Map will become an essential tool for both residents and tourists, helping to drive foot tra c to local stores and contribute to the overall vibrancy of the community.”
For more information or to view a digital version of the map, visit www.brightchamber.com.au/retailtrailmap
SKILLFUL SAWING: President of the Myrtleford Lions Club, Tom White, wielded the chainsaw with precision to collect new material for
BOWEL cancer is the second biggest cause of cancer death in Australia but if detected early, more than 90 per cent of bowel cancers can be successfully treated.
Bowel screening is one of the most e ective ways to detect the early signs of bowel cancer, but unfortunately only 42.6 per
cent of eligible Victorians are participating in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
Australians aged 45-74 are eligible to do a free bowel screening test every two years through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
People aged 50-74 get the bowel screening kit in the mail every two years, while people aged 45-49 can request their rst bowel screening kit through the National Cancer Screening Register.
Since 2017, Cancer Council Victoria has led statewide
FALLS Creek and Mt Hotham alpine resorts awoke to a white dusting of their rst snowfalls on Sunday morning, ahead of the ocial 2025 snow season opening on June 7.
Hotham marketing manager Alex Pankiw said the temperature dropped to almost minus ve degrees, with the snowmaking team making the most of every snowmaking window, thanks to a multi-year snowmaking pipeline project started this summer.
“It’s really exciting and we can’t wait for the snow sea-
son to kick into gear,” he said. At Falls Creek, overnight temperatures of minus four degrees brought snow urries and saw the snow guns re up for most of the day, including the new automated TechnoAlpin snow guns on Drovers Dream.
“There’s no better sight to wake up to than a fresh dusting across our slopes and it’s just the beginning,” said Betony Pitcher, Falls Creek Ski Li s’ marketing manager.
“The countdown to opening weekend on 7 June is ofcially on.”
campaigns to encourage Victorians to participate in bowel screening.
Our research shows that having a real person’s story at the heart of our campaigns encourages others to do their bowel screening test and can start important conversations between loved ones about the importance of screening.
That’s why we’re looking for new individuals to share their bowel screening story in 2025.
If you have a bowel cancer story, we’d like to hear it.
Your story could help raise awareness about the importance
of doing bowel screening and encourage others to participate through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
Do you want to make a di erence and help save lives?
Head to cancervic.org.au/ screening-story for more information.
To learn more about bowel screening and the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, visit cancervic.org.au/ bowel.
Kate Broun, head of screening, early detection and immunisation, Cancer Council Victoria
LETTERS to the editor must be signed with the full name, address and contact telephone number of the author provided. Letters under 250 words are preferred and we reserve the right to edit letters to fit available space. Nom de plumes will only be published at the editor’s discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by this newspaper.
Email: edit.timesobserver@nemedia.com.au
Post: North East Media 76 Standish Street, Myrtleford, Vic 3737
A HELICOPTER attempting to take-off at the Porepunkah Airfield last Thursday morning was grounded when it lost its propellers.
Local police were first on the scene and said fortunately no one was injured in the incident.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) was informed of the incident and said it is currently gathering reports on the matter.
The ATSB will make a decision to initiate a further investigation of the incident if necessary in the future.
DEDERANG’S Big Muster Distilling Company is among 28 councils and community groups across Victoria to share in almost $1 million from the second round of AusNet’s Energy Resilience Community Fund.
The company received $19,200 for a changeover switch and battery to support their existing solar PV. This funding will enable the community to access a commercial kitchen to prepare and cook food, while also providing shelter and a place for people to charge devices during emergency events and outages.
AusNet executive general manager of distribution, Andrew Linnie, said the Energy Resilience Community Fund, which provides Energy Resilience and Education and Literacy Grants, supports projects that will help build long-term community energy resilience and provide support to communities during severe weather events. Grants for the next round open on Monday, 26 May - go to www.ausnetservices.com.au/.
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
AMBULANCE response times for code one incidents throughout the Alpine Shire have improved in the rst three months of this year.
The latest January to 31 March Ambulance Victoria figures revealed paramedics responded to a total 203 urgent emergency care incidents in an average time of 22 minutes and 32 seconds.
Paramedics met the statewide benchmark of arriving
within 15 minutes at 44.3 per cent of incidents, which was 2.4 per cent up on last quarter.
Average response times grew by more than 90 seconds in the previous quarter a er a surge of 43 more incidents, with latest quarterly average closer matching gures gathered over the past year.
Despite the improvement, Alpine ‘light and sirens’ responses still fall below the Ambulance Victoria targets of an 85 per cent response rate to code one incidents,
which is the case for most of the state.
Hume regional director, Narelle Capp, said there was more work to do to improve on response times.
“We continue to work with our partners to ensure our paramedics and rst responders are dispatched to the right patient at the right time, and that our patients are connected with the right care to meet their needs,” she said.
“Our expert Triage Service of nurses and paramedics
also make a real di erence by connecting patients with the care they need while helping free up crews for patients in time-critical emergencies.
“From January to March, 43,858 people who did not need an emergency ambulance were instead connected to more appropriate care by paramedics and nurses in Triage Services.”
In the Hume Region crews responded to 5451 Code 1 cases between January and March 2025, down from 5790
in the previous quarter.
The Mans eld region saw the most signi cant blow out in response times of the surrounding LGAs, adding almost three minutes to their average response time this quarter at just over 26 minutes, while Wangaratta average response times grew 14 seconds to 15 minutes and 38 seconds.
Indigo, Benalla, Strathbogie and Moira shires all saw improvements in their average response times, but the Indigo Shire still holds one of
the lowest rates of responses within 15 minutes across the state at just 21.8 per cent.
Ms Capp encouraged Victorians to do their part to ensure AV’s highly skilled paramedics were available for patients most in need.
“There are many options people can access when they need timely medical care and health advice but don’t need an emergency ambulance, including the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department and Urgent Care Centres,” she said.
COMMUNITY members are invited to help celebrate National Volunteer Week, with Alpine Shire Council running free barbecues in Bright today and Mount Beauty tomorrow.
Today’s barbecue is running at the Bright Library from 12pm to 1pm and tomorrow’s barbecue in Mt Beauty is outside the Commonwealth Bank in Hollonds Street from 12pm to 1pm.
Council hosted a free barbecue for Myrtleford and district residents at The Piazza yesterday, with the lunch coinciding with the launch of the mosaic patchwork, designed and created by The Crackpots, as a permanent symbol of the vital role of volunteers across Alpine Shire.
Sarah Nicholas, said that volunteerism takes many forms and can look different for different people. sociate volunteering with organised groups or large-scale initiatives, it can be as simple as lending a hand to a friend who needs help with something they cannot do alone,” she said.
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
A HEAVY police presence on local roads for a major speeding related statewide operation last week saw 13 o ences detected in the Wangaratta Police Service Area (PSA).
Operation Action was conducted in the Wangaratta PSA - taking in Wangaratta, Alpine and Moira municipalities - as part of National Road Safety Week.
Of the 13 o ences detected, 11 were due to speeding drivers, with one drink driver and one disobey tra c offence recorded.
Across the state there were a total 930 o ences detected during the operation – with speeding o ences making up more than half of all detections.
The Wangaratta community has been mourning the loss of a 19-year-old local man who died in a single-vehicle crash on Warby Range
Road in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Police continue to investigate the incident which le a horror scene on the South Wangaratta road and will prepare a report for the coroner.
Early indications showed speed was a likely factor in the fatal crash which le the severely damaged Holden sedan and its engine resting in two di erent paddocks, around 100 metres apart.
The incident was one of 11
lives lost on Victorian roads since Saturday, bringing the road toll this year to 114, 12 more than this time last year.
Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said this terrible period on the roads should remind everyone that nobody is immune from the impacts of road trauma.
“We continue to detect far too many motorists disregarding the rules – particularly when it comes to speeding,” he said.
“Travelling even just a little bit over the speed limit signi cantly increases your risk of being involved in a collision, and yet the majority of those we caught speeding this week were considerably over the limit.
“In light of National Road Safety Week, and the fact we’ve had so many deaths on our roads in a matter of days, we urge everyone to be safe on the roads and most importantly – slow down.”
volunteered in some capacity throughout their lives, and so I warmly invite people from across Alpine Shire to attend these community barbecues and celebrate the positive impact they have made by helping others.”
AT this month’s recent meeting of Bright Garden Club, held at the Bright RSL clubrooms, special guest Jades Miles of Black Barn Farm in Stanley spoke about the permaculture farm she runs with her partner and Porepunkah local, Charlie
Their Heritage Orchards and berry farm is now one of only three remaining orchards out of 30 that were formerly operating
Jade shared her philosophy on Futuresteading: caring for the community by using sustainable, natural gardening practises to share local produce.
She also detailed the various workshops o ered at the farm - from gra ing, pruning, foraging, apiary and barn-making, to hosting groups of school kids three times a year to learn the seasonality of farm life.
Around 25 attendees made up of members of the Bright Garden Club as well as visitors, enjoyed her enlightening talk and were able to purchase signed copies of her new book ‘Huddle’
as well as her previous 2021 release ‘Futuresteading’.
Another local link next month will bring Carla Boynton-Bardic to the garden club.
Spending some of her younger years in Porepunkah, Carla now runs ‘Blossom and Pollen Garden Design’ from Benalla and will be sharing her ideas on garden design, landscaping and plants.
The meeting will be held at lunchtime, on Tuesday, 10 June, starting at 11.30am, with a lunch of soup and rolls o ered at just $7 entry inclusive.
The venue is the Bright RSL clubrooms, in Camp Street, Bright.
Visitors from local surrounds and tourists from afar, are all very welcome to join, so all can improve their gardens for everyone to share.
For those interested in joining the club, there is an initial annual fee of $25, then just $20 a year and generally a $2 entry for the monthly meetings held on the second Tuesday of the month.
Free 24/7 urgent healthcare
Video call from your mobile or computer anywhere, anytime
Connect to highly skilled emergency doctors and nurses from Victoria’s Virtual Emergency Department
No GP referral, Medicare card or appointment needed
Register now so you’re ready to use us in the future
Scan the QR code to register now or visit: vved.au/self_registrations
Find out more at urgentcare.vic.gov.au
How long have you lived in the Mt Beauty area?
I’ve been here since 1979, 46 years. I came up from the Dandenong Ranges. We had been coming here to ski and decided it was a great place to settle.
I was a primary school teacher and my wife Jenny ran the mobile library. I’m originally from Holland. We immigrated here when I was 10 years old.
What do you like about living here?
The mountains and the fresh air.
Would you like to see any additions or changes?
Not really, it’s great the way it is.
What do you do, your hobbies and interests?
I was a teacher, and we started to grow chestnuts on a farm off Red Bank Road 40 years ago. I baby sit my grandchildren and that keeps me busy and happy. We have five sons and six grandchildren. I used to run, but these days I like to walk or cycle.
Where would you take visitors to showcase the area?
On any one of the many walking trails, gorge walk, pebble beach are good. Up to Mt Bogong and in winter up to Falls Creek.
Where do you live?
We live in Somers, on the Mornington Peninsula. How often do you visit the area?
L: I last visited Myrtleford as a child.
R: This was a spur-of-the-moment visit.
What do you do for a living?
L: We’re both retired now and we have the opportunity to do anything. I was an occupational therapist.
R: I was in I.T.
What are your hobbies and interests?
R: I like doing anything outside; like finding a good spot for a picnic and I’m a very keen veggie gardener, swimmer and cyclist. I like singing and I’m in a choir. I’m also going to investigate cheesemaking at home soon.
L: I like writing and doing arts,
crafts and textiles. I also like swimming, cycling and yoga. I love op-shopping: we’ve been into every op-shop we’ve seen on this trip. What do you think makes the area unique?
L: It’s a beautiful place; every tree I see, I think it’s more beautiful than the last. The bike trails are perfect.
R: We rode past the hops farms earlier and saw the framework set up for them, which was very unique. The Rail Trail. The crisp mornings and autumn colours right now are beautiful. There’s lots to do and explore within a small area; it’s got everything you need.
What would you change about the area?
L: I wouldn’t change anything; it’s a very unique and amazing place.
R: We’ve been very happy on our trip; we didn’t find anything we didn’t like.
Where do you live?
I live in Porepunkah.
How long have you lived in the area?
When I was a child, my family have always holidayed in Bright, but we moved here and took over the management of the park only 17 months ago.
What do you do for a living?
I’m the manager at the Porepunkah Pines Holiday Park.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I like to sew and read when I have the time. I also love
spending time with my family and our new grandchild. What do you think makes the area unique?
There’s something to do in the area every weekend. We’re so close to mountains and the snow.
What would you change about the area?
There’s not too much that’s not already here. Between all the towns we’ve got everything, so there’s nothing to add. I’ve heard some of our customers say they can’t get to everything on their list, so they can’t wait until their next stay.
A MT BEAUTY couple’s passion for Holden panel vans will be among the attractions at the 48th Historic Winton on 24 and 25 May at Winton Motor Raceway.
Ken and Kim Edmondson restored their 1977 HX Holden panel van to advertise Bumblebee for MND (Motor Neurone Disease), and they’ll be at Historic Winton this weekend to celebrate 50 years since the introduction of the Holden panel van.
The couple have been using their van for the past two years to raise funds for Neal Daniher’s FightMND charity, travelling near and far to various motoring events and helping raise many thousands of dollars for the cause.
Another highlight among the jam-packed program at this month’s Historic Winton will be 30 Minis racing to pay tribute to 90-yearold Mini racing engineer and driver Ted Brewster from Vermont, whose vast mentorship and mechanical knowledge has boosted the Mini as a race car in Australia.
Ted Brewster Trophy.
Another Mini hero, Linda Devlin, will be on track vying for honours in this race and the N category races against Cortinas, Mk II Jaguar and FJ and EH Holdens, which will have by-standers on the edge of their seat.
On the display front, Chris Lavender of Cowra will showcase his red 1963 Mark II Jaguar, taken for a spin by Sir Stirling Moss in an exhibition drive at Amaroo Park in 1984.
Unique to Historic Winton is the competition paddock that is open to spectators who view the race cars, meet the drivers and chat about what’s under the bonnet.
Paddock access is included with your event entry ticket.
The Historic Winton market place is another worthwhile feature to visit for great food, co ee, Historic Winton merchandise and all sorts of automotive items.
Richard Hill, Victoria’s fastest Mini race driver and member of the Historic Touring Car Association of Victoria committee, said ve states will race neck and neck in their bid to win the
The Shannons Car Park will again be packed with veteran, vintage and classic vehicles with the surrounding paddocks chock-full of pristine, collectable spectator vehicles that ll the paddocks around the track each day.
Presented by the Austin 7 Club, Historic Winton is well known as being one of Australia’s most popular and longest running historic racing events showcasing racing cars from the very beginning (more than 100 years ago) to the mid-1980s.
By MARY HALL, Kangaroo Hoppet race secretary
SOME 256 runners participated in the 44th annual Mount Beauty Running Festival on Saturday, 17 May, delighted that forecast rain showers did not eventuate, and perfect weather prevailed for all four events.
The epic 18km trail run was the most popular event, with runners travelling through the best parts of Mount Beauty along the Kiewa River before heading into the Alpine National Park.
The course is challenging with two shallow river crossings and scenic ups and downs on a combination of 4WD and single tracks.
The iconic 10.6km run and 21.1km half marathon were on a fast course following the sealed at track around the Mount Beauty Pondage and alongside the pristine Kiewa River, past Pebble Beach.
The 3km fun run event course was a at sealed track around Mount Beauty Pondage, with no road crossings, and entrants enjoying panoramic views of Mount Bogong.
This year’s event attracted a eld of quality runners.
Special guest Piggy, representing major sponsor Mount Beauty & District Community Bank, was at the nish line to congratulate competitors and hand out participation medallions to everyone under 12 in the 3km race.
This event is purely community run and relies on a long list of volunteers who big-heartedly donate their time each year to make it happen.
FESTIVAL RESULTS
18km Mens: 1st Harri Silvester 1:16:35.6; 2nd Dan Trevena 1:17:03.2; 3rd Damian Gillard 1:22:46.6.
18km Womens: 1st Tory Thomas 1:26:57.8; 2nd Rosie Franzke 1:34:43.1; 3rd Rosie Donegan 1:36:06.1.
21.1km Mens: 1st Jason Shields 1:22:57.8; 2nd Simon Nolan 1:26:48.7; 3rd Martin Raines 1:26:59.0.
21.1km Womens: 1st Eliza Heinecke 1:27:30.2; 2nd Jolie Cullen 1:28:58.8; 3rd Bernadette Benson 1:36:24.8.
10.6km Mens: 1st Alec Franzke 33:10.2; 2nd Eddy Franzke 36:15.8; 3rd Eric Wood 36:17.9.
10.6km Womens: 1st Bethany Franzke 47:47.3; 2nd Maddie Strong 52:13.8; 3rd Lillian Tait 53:42.1. 3km Mens: 1st Charlie Cinatl 13:58.2; 2nd Charlie Wellington 14:16.7; 3rd Tom Watson 15:34.4. 3km Womens: 1st Freya Rae 12:30.7; 2nd Harriet Donnelly 15:06.2; 3rd Eleanor Donnelly 15:58.4.
(Full results on website of Alpine Timing)
By FAY MASON, Kiewa
is also a regular host on Alpine Radio, can be contactedon 0410 738 266, or email faymariemason@ gmail.com
THE Mt Beauty Running Festival held last Saturday was a huge success.
The atmosphere was a buzz of anticipation and excitement as runners lined up for their chosen distances. Organisers from the Kangaroo Hoppet, Rotary and wider community did a great job - well done to all concerned.
PLACEGETTERS: On the podium in the men's half marathon were (from le ) 2nd Simon Nolan, 1st Jason Shields and 3rd Martin Raines. PHOTO: Fay Mason
POUNDING THE PATH: Mount Beauty’s Daniel Van Der Ploeg strides out past the Mt Beauty Pondage in the 10.6km run.
THE Alpine FM Brunch program today will have the “Ask the Doctor” segment at 9.30am with Dr Laura Zagorski speaking about vaccinations, particularly measles, which is becoming more widespread. There is also a special guest interview with Dr Norman Ricklefs - an expert on the Middle East at 11.10 am.
Alpine FM Community Radio 96.5FM is your emergency station.
the event can maintain its family friendly reputation and keep entry fees low due to the generosity of local business donations.
Special commendations go to the race committee for their time and e ort leading up to and during the festival, ensuring a well-run event for everyone to enjoy.
Organisers thank Mount Beauty & District Community Bank and Alpine Shire for their support, and special thanks to Mount Beau-
ty Rotary Club for volunteers, Alpine Radio for broadcasting at the event, Vegitation Wholesale Produce for donating the feed station fruit, Food Works Mount Beauty for providing lollies, Mount Beauty Playgroup for their bake sale and barbecue, and Mount Beauty Swimming Pool for the use of their facilities.
The committee would like to thank all participants from near and far and hope to see them all again next year.
For joining us and having ‘fun the Italian way!’
A special thanks to our Sponsors, amazing volunteers, our Circoli & many more - too many to mention individually, so we say a big heartfelt GRAZIE to all.
Head for the hills and discover Victoria’s regional events.
Try your hands (and feet) at various things you’ve never done before. You could find yourself cider quaffing, tulip sniffing, grape stomping, maybe even fun running.
By JORDAN DUURSMA
SINCE its inception in 2021, the team at Alba Health has grown and expanded to better meet the needs of the community.
SINCE it’s inception in 2021, the team at Alba Health has grown and expanded to better meet the needs of the community.
Alba Health was established in May 2021 in the midst of a pandemic at its original location of 164 Myrtle St by principal GP Dr Justin Donaldson.
Alba Health was estab lished in May 2021 in the midst of a pandemic at it’s original location of 164 Myr tle St by principal GP Dr Jus tin Donaldson.
As demand grew for services and the old “roundabout op shop” location became available, Alba Health designed the new facility with the theme of “clean, green and bright” to create a welcoming and calming environment to patients and sta , opening in April of 2023.
As demand grew for servic es and the old ”roundabout op shop” location became avail able, Alba Health designed the new facility with the theme of “clean, green and bright” to create a welcoming and calming environment to patients and sta , opening in April of 2023.
The team now operates ve days a week and consists of four administration mem bers, two nurses, and four providers; including nurse practitioner Stephen Voogt, and three general practition ers Dr Donaldson, Dr Alison Mahony and Dr Crissie Dumitrescu.
The team now operates ve days a week and consists of four administration members, two nurses, and four providers; including nurse practitioner Stephen Voogt, and three general practitioners Dr Donaldson, Dr Alison Mahony and Dr Crissie Dumitrescu.
Practice manager Greta Donaldson said the clinic has its consult rooms and had capacity for more health professionals to provide health services in high demand.
Practice manager Greta Donaldson said the clinic has expanded it’s consult rooms and had capacity for more health professionals to provide health services in high demand.
“This reduces wait times for appointments, o ers more choice of providers to patients and greater exibility of appointments across the week,” she said.
“This reduces wait times for appointments, o ers more choice of providers to patients and greater exibility of appointments across the week,” she said.
“In our patient feedback survey in 2024, the two main themes were the option to see a female GP and to be open ve days a week which we have achieved.
“In our patient feedback survey in 2024, the two main themes were the option to see a female GP and to be open ve days a week which we have achieved.
“The clinic has a modern look and feel and we placed a large emphasis on the patient comfort and experience
“The clinic has a modern look and feel and we placed a large emphasis on the patient comfort and experience in
in the design phase to create a calm and welcoming environment.”
With a focus on providing high quality, patient centred health care, the team believe that continuity of care creates the best outcomes and they are dedicated to providing a consistent, timely and an efcient service.
the design phase to create a calm and welcoming environment.” a focus on providing quality, patient centred health care, the team believe that continuity of care creates the best outcomes and they are dedicated to providing a consistent, timely and an efcient service.
Ms Donaldson said these core values are the guiding principals for the practitioners with every patient they support.
Ms Donaldson said these core values are the guiding principals for the practitioners with every patient they support.
“Patient centred care is at the heart of each appointment, providing care that is respectful of and responsive to individual patient preferences, needs, and values,” she said.
“Patient centred care is at the heart of each appointment, providing care that is respectful of and responsive to individual patient preferences, needs, and values,” she said.
“We aim to consistently link patients in with a regular GP, minimise wait times to get appointment, participate in the a er hours service at Urgent Care at Myrtleford Hospital and optimise the care with other health professionals who are involved.”
“We aim to consistently link patients in with a regular GP, minimise wait times to get an appointment, participate in the a er hours service at Urgent Care at Myrtleford Hospital and optimise the care with other health professionals who are involved.”
With the addition of nurse practitioner Stephen Voogt and Dr Crissie Dumitrescu, the team at Alba Health have expanded their scope to respond to the community’s diverse needs.
With the addition of nurse practitioner Stephen Voogt and Dr Crissie Dumitrescu, the team at Alba Health have expanded their scope to respond to the community’s diverse needs.
Stephen Voogt, nurse practitioner, has over thirty years of experience working across the healthcare sector within Australia and overseas and has been a Beechworth local for more than 20 years with
Stephen Voogt, nurse practitioner, has over 30 years of experience working across the healthcare sector within Australia and overseas and has been a Beechworth local for more than 20
his family.
years with his family.
In 2010 Steve was endorsed as a nurse practitioner and for the last 15 years has been working with GP’s and aged care facilities to provide specialist care to older people, more recently Steve has been working in Primary Health Care in Wangaratta.
In 2010 Steve was endorsed as a nurse practitioner and for the 15 years has been working with GP’s and aged care facilities to provide specialist care to older people, more recently Steve has been working in Primary Health Care in Wangaratta.
Ms Donaldson said nurse practitioners are highly skilled health professionals who can provide general services such as clinical examinations, health checks, scripts, medication review and management, diagnostic and pathology requests, specialist referral and sick/carer certi cates.
Ms Donaldson said nurse practitioners are highly skilled health professionals who can provide general services such as clinical examinations, health checks, scripts, medication review and management, diagnostic and pathology requests, specialist referral and sick/carer certi cates.
“A nurse practitioner can see patients in most instances
“A nurse practitioner can see patients in most instances
for acute illness that require medical attention on the day, assistance for are/exacerbation chronic conditions and related problems,” she said.
for acute illness that require medical attention on the day, assistance for are/exacerbation of chronic conditions and age related problems,” she said.
Dr Crissie Dumitrescu completed her undergraduate medical training in South Africa, at the University of the Witwatersrand.
Dr Crissie Dumitrescu completed her undergraduate medical training in South Africa, at the University of the Witwatersrand.
A er graduation, she worked in the UK for 10 years, where she also completed GP training.
A er graduation, she worked in the UK for 10 years, where she also completed GP training.
Since 2005, Dr Dumitrescu has worked as a rural GP, as well as covering an Urgent Care Department at the local hospital and looking a er inpatients.
Since 2005, Dr Dumitrescu has worked as a rural GP, as well as covering an Urgent Care Department at the local hospital and looking a er inpatients.
Part of her working time is spent teaching medical stu-
Part of her working time is spent teaching medical stu-
dents and junior doctors. She has an interest in skin checks and minor surgery of skin lesions and is looking forward to developing a service in Myrtleford, she is currently at Alba Health on Mondays and taking new patients. Alba Health also o ers a Healthy Hearts Program, to encourage local residents to check in with their heart health.
dents and junior doctors. She has an interest in skin checks and minor surgery of skin lesions and is looking forward to developing a service in Myrtleford, she is currently at Alba Health on Mondays and taking new patients. Alba Health also o ers a Healthy Hearts Program, to encourage local residents to check in with their heart health.
For more information about this program, visit https://albahealth.com.au/ healthy-hearts-program/. Alba Health is open week Monday to Friday from 8:45am to 5pm, appointments can be made by calling 5751 1138 or online via website www.albahealth.com.au.
For more information about this program, visit https://albahealth.com.au/ healthy-hearts-program/. Alba Health is open week Monday to Friday from 8:45am to 5pm, appointments can be made by calling 5751 1138 or online via website www.albahealth.com.au.
MYRTLEFORD P12
College is cultivating a strong, positive culture grounded in academic excellence and genuine care for one another.
With a clear focus on student wellbeing and highquality learning, the school community is working collaboratively to ensure that every student feels supported, challenged, and connected.
Under the leadership of the School Improvement Team, Myrtleford P12 has implemented a series of initiatives designed to enhance student engagement and academic rigour.
This has been supported by staff professional development on how students learn best, and led
to the development of their new MP12 Instructional Model together as a collaborative community.
Their vision is simple; they want to be a place where everyone feels safe, respected and inspired to do their best in the classroom and in the wider community.
One of the key pillars of this vision is the College’s Positive Behaviour Support framework, which clearly defines expectations for respectful and responsible behaviour.
Students are regularly recognised for demonstrating the school’s core values: Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be a Responsible Community Member and Be Safe.
Teachers work
closely with students to personalise learning goals, celebrating progress and encouraging a growth mindset.
The school’s Wellbeing Team plays a central role in this cultural transformation, providing support through a casemanagement approach to ensure all students are cared for so that they can achieve their very best.
Parents and carers have also welcomed the changes, noting a shift in student confidence, motivation and school pride.
As Myrtleford P12 College continues to evolve, its commitment to a caring and high-achieving culture will strengthen and further improve, and the journey ahead looks promising.
At Myrtleford P12 College, we are committed to ensuring every student has the best opportunity to develop essential skills, knowing that literacy is not merely a skill but a gateway to personal growth, social inclusion, and lifelong learning. We recognise that an orderly learning environment, high expectations and a strong home-school relationship are necessary elements in ensuring that all our students learn and reach their full potential.
Our college is a busy place with excellent numeracy and literacy results. We have high expectations of staff, students and parents. As a member of the college community you will have clearly de ned and understood rights and responsibilities. We are both passionate and determined to teach our students the necessary expertise, discipline and values needed to become successful 21st century learners and responsible members of the community.
For a tour of the college or further
The College offers our students;
• Small class sizes
• A strong focus on Literacy and Numeracy skills
• A growing school with excellent facilities
• Teachers who know their students and how they learn
• Modern facilities with access to the latest technology and software
• Career pathways to cater for student needs and interests
• Large school options with small school advantages
• Involvement in the arts, sporting, community and leadership activities
Myrtleford P12 College students experience a sense of belonging and enjoy learning in a safe, disciplined and well organised environment.
regarding what the college can offer your child please
Education Week 19–23 May 2025
Education Week 19–23 May 2025
By PHOEBE MORGAN
THE EMPAC theatre was bustling with Marian College students, staff members and teachers last week as rehearsals began for the school’s upcoming play, ‘The Magical History Tour’.
The story centres around a group of students who visit ancient and past civilisations to learn lessons from the past first-hand.
Student Ada Tracy, who wants to become an actor, said she hopes the play goes well.
Director Vicki McGowan, who has put on one play per year since she started teaching at the school, said term one was spent writing and workshopping the script and this term has focused on rehearsing and putting the play together with students and faculty.
“We started with a gem of an idea last year; created and discussed with last year’s cast and crew,” Ms McGowan said.
“We have a small band of students across Years 8 to 12, who revel in the performing arts and we have picked up a great group of Year 7s this year who are at present excelling in their roles.
vic.gov.au/education-week
vic.gov.au/education-week
TOE-TAPPING TEACHER: Anna Fin Genero danced into the scene with Savannah Smith, Connor Sacco, Isobella Somerville, Jack Byrne, Marie Ginkel and Olivia Cannata during the first round of rehearsals.
INSET: SCRUMPTIOUS SEGMENT: Jack Byrne offers his cook-off meal to the judges Isobella Somerville, director Vicki McGowan and Emily Law. PHOTOS: Phoebe Morgan
“The work of five Year 9 and 10 students has been invaluable: they’re here each week working as the dramaturgy team to discuss the theory behind practices, workshopping, script development and taking leadership in stagecraft arenas, such as sound and set design, costumes, properties and projections.
“Additionally our visual media students in Years 11 and 12 have designed and created set
cameo roles in the show this year.
“Their commitment and resilience add another dimension to the show and they hugely support the students by modelling great skills.
“A show cannot exist without the whole village: many thanks to my team members Michael Guinane, Anna Fin Genero, Cate Sutterby, Russell Williams and Kylie Britt.
“We hope the community will support this year’s show.
pieces and properties as well as fashioning a creative design concept for the foyer and ushers.
“This year we have returned to an old practice of involving whole year levels in the show.
“The Year 7 cohort will take to the stage in the Ancient Greece
scene as dancers in the Agora and the whole Year 8 group will join our Egyptian Gods, plus the king and queen on stage as slaves, as they build the pyramids with their bodies and form a dance troupe.
“We are also very fortunate to have a dozen staff members who have
“My goals for this school production include the students gaining a sense of belonging through participation, the respectful building of friendship groups and relationships where shared interests can blossom, experiencing shared responsibilities for staging a show and building personal confidences in whichever area they pursue.”
The Magical History Tour will be performed at the Myrtleford Performing Arts Centre on: Thursday, 29 May at 6.30pm (opening night), Friday, 30 May at 1.30pm (matinee) and at 6.30pm (closing night).
Tickets are available by contacting Marian College on (03) 5752 1596 - adult ticket $15, group of five $40, child/concession $8.
All 2026 Foundation families are invited to join us for one of our Open Mornings and our Parent Information Night. During our tours, families will have an opportunity to visit classrooms, ask questions, and discover all that St. Mary's Primary School can offer your child and family. Our Parent Information Night will focus more on the how and why of our teaching model with time for more in-depth discussion.
• Open Day -Thursday, 22 May 9-11am
• Open Day - Friday, 15 August 9-11am
• Parent Info Night - Wed, 26 June 6pm
• Transition Days for enrolled students will begin in late Term 3
Every day is an Open Day at St. Mary's. Please feel free to organise an individual visit at any time.
By JEAN OLLEY, Bright P-12 College principal
2025 has already been a vibrant and rewarding year at Bright P-12 College, filled with achievements and community spirit with many more exciting opportunities ahead for our students.
One of the recent highlights was the Bright Community Fun Run, where over 400 participants and many more supporters joined in by volunteering to help run the event and cheer from the sidelines.
It was a true celebration of local energy and collaboration.
School pride was also on display as we celebrated the Bright Autumn Festival.
The atmosphere of community spirit during the parade was electric and we were proud of our students, from prep to Year 12, who came along to be part of this very special day.
In a wonderful display of global thinking, 15 Bright P-12 College students from Year 7 to Year 12 travelled to Beechworth to take part in a Model United Nations.
Our students represented UN delegates from China, Lithuania, Ethiopia and Italy. They presented to a large group of students from other schools and had the opportunity to work on their skills of public speaking, role-playing and negotiation. Language learning continues to thrive at Bright P-12 College. Students are engaged in Japanese, German and Aboriginal Languages of Victoria (ALV) this year.
We are especially proud to offer ALV as a VCE subject.
Our secondary students lead workshops in Dhudhuroa language and culture for primary classes, supporting language reclamation and helping build cross-age learning and cultural appreciation. Long-running language
exchange programs enable us to host students from Japan and Germany and our students enjoy the opportunity of spending time with host families overseas.
Our dedicated Japanese and German language assistants bring additional cultural experiences from their country of origin to share with students.
CARING COMMUNITY: Bright P-12’s Mother’s Day stall proved very popular.
The stall was open on campus the Thursday before Mother’s Day so children could pick up something small to gift their mothers on the weekend.
The stall raised $1464 as a fundraiser for the school, with handmade items donated and organised by volunteers from the college’s Parents & Friends group.
at the stall are (from left) students Poppy Dykes and Otis Gray, parents Shannan White and Kate Tracy, and students Maya Maconochie and Reed Sgambelloni.
Looking ahead, we are excited to welcome new families as we run school tours for those with children starting prep or Year 7 in 2026.
We warmly invite you to come and explore our college, meet our passionate staff and discover all that Bright P-12 College has to offer.
Education Week 19–23 May 2025
Education Week 19–23 May 2025
vic.gov.au/education-week
vic.gov.au/education-week
MORE THAN A SCHOOL: Wandiligong Primary School’s tailored teaching style and sustainable practices make learning a fun experience for students.
WHOROULY Primary School has served its local district since 1874, and provides quality education to students across all grade levels from Foundation to grade 6. The school has close ties with the neighbouring Whorouly Pre School and local community groups and is a member of the Ovens Learning Community of schools and is the base school for the MACC (Mobile Art) Program servicing seven schools.
School buildings consist of a semi-open plan learning space, with a junior and senior classroom space, a multi-purpose classroom, a large covered deck, kitchen/ staffroom, office, resource room and library/meeting room.
Also located on the school grounds is an art shed, a kitchen garden, a large, grassed playing area, covered adventure playground, and a covered hard court.
Students come from a wide range of families with
diverse backgrounds.
Whorouly Primary School provides a nurturing and challenging environment that empowers students to achieve their personal best, both academically and socially and become optimistic, resilient, creative and critical thinkers.
The school promotes its school values and inspires diversity, achievement, responsibility and endeavour, throughout the curriculum, in co-curricular activities, and in its daily operations.
TUCKED away in the stunning Wandiligong Valley, Wandiligong Primary School is more than just a place to learn - it’s a vibrant, nurturing community where students are inspired to grow, explore and thrive.
At Wandiligong Primary School, every child is known, supported and celebrated.
The small school size means learning is truly personalised, helping every student shine in their own way.
Wandi’s passionate teachers bring energy and creativity to the classroom, using a mix of proven strategies and fresh ideas to make learning meaningful and fun.
Learning goes beyond textbooks at Wandi.
The school’s strong focus on literacy and numeracy builds confidence and core skills in students, while specialist programs in Italian, art, music/ drama, and science keep things exciting and diverse.
Inquiry-based learning in areas like humanities and technology encourages students to ask big questions, solve real-world
problems, and think critically.
Through the Sustainable Wandi program, students roll up their sleeves and dig into hands-on learning in our outdoor garden and natural surroundings.
Whether they’re planting, harvesting, or learning about eco-friendly living, students are building responsibility, teamwork, and a deeper connection with their environment - all while having loads of fun.
Wandi is more than a schoolit’s a close-knit community.
Older and younger students learn and play together, building strong friendships across year levels.
Families are a big part of the journey too, working together to support every child’s learning and wellbeing.
Every week feels like Education Week at Wandiligong Primary School.
Wandi is proud of the joyful, connected, and meaningful education they offer, and encourage people to discover what makes our small school so special.
Ensuring small classes, Individual Education Plans for all and a focus on explicit teaching of literacy and numeracy. Specialist programs in Music, Science, Art, Library, and Italian and our programs are enriched through SAKG, STEAM and Bluearth. Outside School Hours Program available.
Contact the school for a personalised tour, further information and enrolment forms.
Our values: Learning, Relationships, Persistence, Respect, Teamwork
Whorouly Primary School - School Principal: Pauline McPherson 18 Church Street, Whorouly | p: 03 5727 1363
e: whorouly.ps@education.vic.gov.au | w: whorouly.vic.edu.au
By PHOEBE MORGAN
MYRTLEFORD celebrated the unveiling of the newly renovated Ablett Pavilion last Thursday night, complete with the sounds and sights of local football training underway on the oval below.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, and McNamara Reserve committee of management president Bob McNamara
officiated the ribbon cutting to open the $1.4 million federally funded renovation to enhance function areas, improve facilities and relocate the bar to overlook the oval, among a number of other upgrades.
Mayor Nicholas said council was thrilled that the new-look pavilion was ready for the community to enjoy.
“These improvements not only enhance the experience for users but also create a more welcoming and functional space for events and gatherings,” she said.
“It’s a real asset for the region, and I commend the community members who brought the idea to life and worked closely with council to turn a dream into reality.”
Myrtleford Football and Netball Club co-president, Luke Chapman, said the new upgrades will be fantastic for the entire community, not just club families.
Club treasurer, Marnie Broz, said the club couldn’t be happier with the end result and looks forward to the whole community and local groups being able to now book the space to host functions.
As he delivered his speech, Mr McNamara paid tribute to the facility’s rich history by honouring the original builders from the Ablett Building project from the early 1970s.
“Today as we unveil this transformation, it’s only fitting
GREAT VIEWS: McNamara Reserve committee president Bob McNamara and Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas admire the expanded balcony and first floor extension. INSET AN EXCITING NEW CHAPTER: McNamara Reserve committee president Bob McNamara and Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas cut the ribbon to mark the official opening of the Ablett Pavilion renovations last Thursday evening. PHOTOS: Phoebe Morgan
that we acknowledge the representatives from the family business that built the original structure,” Mr McNamara said.
“Alan, Mark, Matthew and Simon Crisp and Eric Taylor were the original builders from ‘Crisp and Taylor’, who are pretty synonymous to this area.
“Their craftsmanship and building skill of the original build laid the foundations for a space that has served the community for decades and we honour your legacy here tonight.”
Mr McNamara thanked all those
who worked on the project: Max Boland and his tradesman team at Foursite Constructions; Paul Muraca and his plumbing team; Brady Munson and his team from Ovens Valley Cabinets who constructed the new bar: Mark Primerano who did the electrical work and Pete Capillari who installed the sound-system.
He praised them and all other contractors for the quality of their workmanship to realise the finished pavilion.
“This upgraded facility stands as a testament to what can be
achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision,” Mr McNamara said.
“It will continue to serve as a vital heart of the sporting groups and the broader community for many years to come.”
One of the pavilion’s original builders, Alan Crisp, said he appreciated the new design.
“Constructing the Ablett Building in the 1970s would’ve taken us 18 months to complete in all,” Mr Crisp said.
“The new building is looking very good and the design has
come up really well.”
Funding for the Ablett Pavilion renovation was secured by the McNamara Reserve committee of management through the Black Summer Bushfire Recovery (BSBR) program, administered by the Commonwealth Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources.
As part of the funding agreement, Alpine Shire Council was responsible for project management and the administration of payments for the works.
co-founder and project director
Max Boland said a key aim of the project was to see it delivered in the off-season for the football and netball club, with works focused from late August 2024 through to Feburary/March 2025.
“The Myrtleford Football Netball Club project was a big success for all involved, and remains a big contribution to Foursites
FY24 business goals,” he said.
“Foursite managed to engage 100 per cent local trades (within 50km radius), some of which were even sponsors of the football/netball club.
“The project was delivered right on time for the club to commence pre-season training, and included over $90,000 in additional works which were completed all in the original timeframe.
“A total of 9600 trade hours
were carried out across the 17 local sub-contracting companies engaged.
“There were zero reportable incidents that occurred and Foursite is looking forward to working on future opportunities with the Alpine Shire Council on the back of what was a very successful project.”
The project has been made possible thanks to the hard work and dedication of the
McNamara Reserve committee of management, Alpine Shire Council, and several contractors and suppliers, including: Foursite Construction, Sacca’s Carpentry, Muraca Plumbing, Primma Electrical, Myrtleford Furnishings and Floors, Unite Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, Fitweld Engineering, Ovens Valley Cabinets, Lukey T Concreting, Rocklea Builders and Mihaly Slocombe Architects.
THE Ablett Pavilion has undergone a significant transformation over the past year on the first floor to enhance its function spaces and overall usability.
Key upgrades include:
a new first-floor extension with a modern conference space, office and storage;
an expanded balcony and roof for improved shelter and viewing;
a relocated and upgraded bar facing the balcony for better service and views;
skylights, new flooring and fresh paint in the kitchen;
a new dry store and commercial-sized cool room;
a modernised façade and improved glazed windows offering panoramic views of the playing field and surrounding mountains;
new front entry sliding doors, upgraded hot water systems, and a refreshed lobby and public toilets.
Myrtleford Football Netball Club Sponsors Day on May 10 put the new Ablett Pavilion facilities to good use.
BY JOHN TAYLOR, OAM, Myrtleford District Historical Society
ON Tuesday, 4 August, 1970, a large crowd attended the Myrtleford Football Club’s annual ball, with the Memorial Hall packed to capacity to hear speakers urge those present to support the drive for funds for a new sporting complex at the football ground.
‘With Dousett’s Plus One providing the music and popular Bruce Way as MC, a happy atmosphere prevailed,’ the Myrtleford Times reported.
A highlight of the night was the presentation of 10 debutantes and their partners to the official party of Hon. I. A Swinburne, shire president Cr P.F. Barnett, Myrtleford FC president Mr L.G. Ablett, O&M FL president Mr W. Jasper and MFC social committee member Mrs H. Bailey and their partners.
Mr Ablett urged patrons to get behind the appeal which had been launched the preceding day.
The launch outlined the need for a $30,000 local contribution in the
FUNDRAISING FOR NEW FUNCTION CENTRE: Myrtleford Football Club threw a ball to raise funds to help build the Ablett Building, 1970.
form of loans over a period of 15 years to help finance the project and so invest in the district’s future. In support, Cr Barnett added “If you have faith in your town and
district, you should support this project.”
Mr Swinburne also commented on the project as “one of the greatest things that has
happened in Myrtleford… similar to the big drive for funds for the new hospital, and that was oversubscribed.
“It is up to every member of the
public to accept the challenge and see it through.”
By early October,1970 the drive to borrow a target of $30,000 had almost been reached, enabling the shire council to proceed with plans to take over control of the football ground and apply for Victorian government grants to assist erection of a new complex.
With a shortfall of just $700, the architects were instructed to proceed and prepare working plans and cost estimates, with the intention to invite tenders for construction in 1971.
Design of the building was in the hands of A & J. Leita, with the builders appointed to be Crisp & Taylor, Pty. Ltd.
Eventually, the project was to follow key developments in Myrtleford during 1972: the Bowater Scott Mill, the town sewerage scheme and staged hospital extensions.
By the April council meeting in 1973 the shire engineer K.A. Walters reported “steady progress on the brickwork… and filling to the ground floor has begun.” Continued page 20
From page 19
In October, council heard “bricklaying and electrical work was continuing, with windows and door frames set in place and the stairs to the social room poured.”
That October meeting also decided to invite the Victorian Premier, Hon. R.J. Hamer, to officially open what was to be named the ‘Myrtleford Sporting Complex’.
Mr Hamer had previously been instrumental in receiving deputations on the project as Minister for Local Government and the Hon. I.A. Swinburne was approached to issue the invitation on council’s behalf.
A ‘Sporting Complex Committee’ consisting of four councillors was instructed to confer with the football club regarding the future of the old club rooms, the general opinion being they were unsightly and should be removed.
Further plumbing and electrical work continued in the new building in November, along with roofing and kitchen framing and a possible cost over-run of up to $9000 needed attention.
After
PHOTOS: Tiff Rayner collection,
December 1973 brought excellent news of a further $51,000 allocated for completion of the complex, taking the total work value of the project to $160,000. In the new year, panelling and plaster work continued, with the addition of external site works, netball courts and parking area. Continued page 21
‘PUBLIC
SO read the headlines in the Myrtleford Times on 18 March, 1974.
‘March 15, 1974 was a great day in the history of Myrtleford,’ the article read.
‘A large crowd, including many school children were present in brilliant sunshine before a magnificent new building, tidy surrounds and in a picturesque setting.’
The Premier had arrived at Porepunkah airport and was then conveyed to the Myrtleford Council Chambers, followed by a buffet luncheon at the Myrtleford Hotel.
At 2.15 pm, he and the official party journeyed to the sporting complex where the official opening occurred on the balcony of the new pavilion.
Shire secretary K.S. Lane was master of ceremonies.
Shire president K.A. Weller, in welcoming the Premier, acknowledged the role the Premier had played in giving the shire and Myrtleford FC early advice and financial assistance.
“Hamer Made It Happen,” he said.
Hon. I.A. Swinburne commented
on past efforts of football club volunteers to fund raise and maintain facilities and their preparedness to sell the ground to the shire to enable access to government grants.
“The Premier gave every encouragement and advice, resulting in a government contribution of over $80,000,” he said.
In response, Premier Hamer indicated that the Myrtleford building was one of 17 funded by a ‘Sporting Centre Fund’.
“The building is here because
of a partnership between the Myrtleford Football Club, Myrtleford Shire and the Victorian government,” Premier Hamer said.
“It is the result of a great community effort, led by people of vision and spirit.”
He exhorted all to get the next stage of the development underway.
“The government will support you”, he said.
He then asked Ora and Len Ablett to step forward on to the balcony.
ORIGINAL DESIGN: At the official opening of the new Ablett Building, shire secretary Mr K.S. Lane, shire president Cr K.A. Weller, Victorian Premier Hon. R.J. Hamer, MP and Hon. I.A. Swinburne, MLC spoke, standing on the now redesigned front staircase and balcony.
EDUCATIONAL EXCURSION: Local schoolchildren went on a special outing to witness the unveiling of the new Ablett Building, 15 March, 1974.
The Premier, on the advice of the shire council and football club, then announced the building would be known as the ‘Ablett Building’.
He unveiled a commemorative plaque and declared the building open, entering through doors to the upstairs social room.
Later during the evening of March 15, a ball was held in the new function centre.
The following Monday the Myrtleford Times reported: ‘GALA BALL WAS A WOW!’.
Organised by the football club social committee, 400 patrons attended to ‘enjoy a new concept of entertainment in cabaret style’.
After a four-course meal and excellent dinner music, ‘the best and wittiest floor show’ was performed by Phil Galotta and The Blue Echoes.
Very few left before the very end. Today, 50 years on since early 1974 and after further stages of development, the Ablett Building continues its role as a great community asset.
As per Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 and in accordance with Council policy, notice is hereby given that Alpine Shire Council intends to enter into direct negotiations with the current lessee for the purpose of securing a Crown lease over a part of permanently reserved land, abutting the Bright Riverside Holiday Park being part of allotment 13A Section 5, situated in Bright. No changes will be made to public access. Further information can be obtained by contacting Sascha Russell, Property and Contracts Coordinator, at info@alpineshire.vic.gov.au or (03) 5755 0555.
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
Booking deadline:
2pm business day prior to print.
The Euroa Gazette
Phone: (03) 5723 0101
email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au
Booking deadline:
3pm Monday prior to print.
North East Tourist News
Phone: (03) 5723 0100
email: sales@nemedia.com.au
Phone for quarterly booking deadline
North East Farmer
Phone: (03) 5723 0100
email: nefarmer@nemedia.com.au
Booking deadline: Second Friday of month
> CAR ADVERTISERS
Private vendors of motor cars advertised for sale must include in their advertisement
• Cash price of motor car
• If car is registered, registration number
• If unregistered, the engine number
> PHOTOGRAPHS
All photographs appearing in this issue that are taken by our photographers are available as reprints.
> FOUND ADVERTISEMENTS
All found advertisements are published free. Simply provide the details of your find for publication.
> PERSONAL ADVERTISERS
• All personal photos submitted for printing in this issue must be collected within the next 4 weeks.
• All engagement and marriage notices must carry the signatures of BOTH parties, if under 18 the parents’ signatures as well.
• Birth notices require signatures
> ADDITIONS
• Bold heading
• A various selection of logos are available.
> INTERNET
In lodging an advertisement with us you agree that we may publish the advertisement on our website. The general terms and condition that apply to publication apply also to publication of material on our website.
CHECK OUT OUR NORTH EAST JOBS in today's Regional Extra for more employment opportunities. Published every Wednesday in your Wangaratta Chronicle, Ovens and Murray Advertiser, Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer 2017 Ford Transit CamperVan,54,000km, (1KG6TW),$56,000, for more information ring Phil 0418 994 147.
2012 Holden Captiva, petrol, 184,000km, very good condition, (1DQ 3MD), $5,600. Phone Phil 0418 994 147.
HOLDEN VZ SS Thunder Ute, 2006 6 litre auto, Leather trim, RWC, 6 months reg (1GO-1GA), 222,000kms, $24,950, ONO, Phone Peter on 0412 527 477.
NISSAN X-Trail STIL 2011, leather interior, good condition, towball, all wheel drive, 2ton capacity, reg (YOF136), $4200 rm. Ph 0403 431 390.
RANGE HENS ISA Brown Pullets, POL $35ea. Pick upWang to Bright Becky & Hugh (03) 5798 1868 freerangehens.com.au
KING, James “Jim”. 13/2/1935 – 11/5/2025
The co ee break won’t be the same with the passing of a great mate, Jim. ~ Darren Murphy and Alan “Bundy” Elliot. Rest in peace Jim, you’ve earned it.
EVANS, Oliver Fredrick (Ollie). 27/5/1936 - 11/5/2025
Passed away peacefully surrounded by his much-loved family. Loving husband of Mary (dec). Special friend of Anne (dec). Cherished father of Rose, Linda, Julie, Cindy and their partners. Grandfather of 8. Great-Grandfather of 12.
LADE, Uwe. 16/3/1946 – 16/5/2025
Wife to Barbara. Father to Andrew and Stephen. Father-in-law to Debra and Kim. Pa to Gri en, Pheonix and Ayva. Opa to River and Aurora. Now you can rest in peace.
EVANS
The funeral service to celebrate the life of Oliver Evans will be held graveside at the Myrtleford Lawn Cemetery, 380 Myrtleford-Yackandandah Rd, Myrtleford on Friday, May 23, 2025 commencing at 10.30am. In lieu of owers donations to the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre in memory of Oliver would be greatly appreciated. Donations can be made at https://www.awh.org.au/support-us/howto-help/make-a-donation Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
ACROSS
1 What is a large New World vulture called (6)
7 Name a spine-bearing mammal (8)
8 Which skin marking is difficult to remove (6)
9 Name a region in Croatia along the east coast of the Adriatic (8)
10 What is a trite, stereotyped expression (6)
11 Which term describes malicious injury to work, tools, etc (8)
14 Which people rob houses (8)
18 What is a pendent tapering mass of ice (6)
19 Name an alternative term for marriage (8)
21 Which colour lies between blue and violet in the spectrum (6)
22 Which ocean lies to the west of southern Africa (8)
23 Name another term for summits (6)
DOWN
1 What is an underground cemetery called (8)
2 To discover a presence, is to do what (6)
3 What was the former name of Zimbabwe (8)
5 Which term describes one who possesses mere book learning without practical wisdom (6)
6 Which day follows Christmas Day (6)
12 Name an early Roman large rectangular building, used as a meeting place (8)
13 What do we call sovereigns of empires (8)
16 To be spherical, is to be what (6)
17 What, in golf, is a score of one stroke under par on a hole (6)
20 Name the area on which a building is to be situated (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 TENACIOUS (a) Attractive (b) Holding fast (c) Pertaining to time
4 What is a false god, as of a heathen people (4)
15 What are emotional disturbances (6)
Letters have a number value
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
2 VOLANT (a) Flying (b) Willing (c) Erupting
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
Box for holy objects (3)
Chart again (5)
December (abb) (3)
Demonstrations (abb) (5)
Of the femur (7)
Salt (Latin) (3)
Similar sounding word (7)
Sodium borate (5)
Steal (3)
Water course (5)
La
With amazing weather, first-rate facilities, and thrilling contests across all age groups, the region’s junior talent was on full display.
Under 13s
AWJFL 7.9 (51) def WDJFL 5.8 (38)
Best: Ryder Pearce (Wodonga Raiders Junior Football Club)
Under 14s
AWJFL 6.7 (43) def WDJFL 5.5 (35)
Best: Tom Toepfer (Albury Junior Football Club)
Under 15s
AWJFL 7.8 (50) def WDJFL 5.5 (35)
Best: William Packer (Albury Junior Football Club)
Under 16s
AWJFL 12.14 (86) def WDJFL 7.4 (46)
Best: Blake Morgan (Albury Junior Football Club) Well done to all players – your effort and sportsmanship made the day unforgettable.
(formerly CRM Business Advisers)
Certified Practising Accountants
Myrtleford, 1-7 Albert Street Phone: 5752 2288
Bright, 3 Ireland Street
Phone: 5755 1327
www.belmores.com.au
& ASSOCIATES
Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors
25 Clyde Street Myrtleford
Phone: 5751 1995
Email admin@paynterassoc.com.au
www.paynterandassociates.com.au
29 Clyde Street Myrtleford Plus Standish Street Surgery & Bright Allied Health For appointments call 5752 2817
Myrtleford, 47 Clyde Street
Phone: 5752 1151
Bright, 104 Gavan St
Phone: 5715 9705
SATURDAY, 17 May
COLES STABLEFORD & SUPER & AMCR 71
A Grade Winner: Peter Stewart (13) 39 pts. A Grade Runner Up: Brad Carroll (8) 36 pts c/b.
B Grade Winners: Janice Williams (31) 35 pts. B Grade Runners Up: Jakob Piddington (21) 35 pts c/b.
Super 6 Winner: David Matthews (13) 16 pts. Super 6 Runner Up: Alan Rockli (10) 14 pts c/b.
Ball Winners: S Graham 36, P Cowman 35, P Evans 35, D Matthews 33, S Piddington 33.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Peter Stewart, 4th 2nd Shot: Alexander Lord (Eagle 2), 8th: Peter Stewart, 14th: David Clark, 16th: Alexander Lord.
Pickett, 8th: Alan Rockli , 14th: Alan Rockli , 16th: Shane Ward. Tuesday, 13 May
Drummond Golf Monthly Medal - AMCR 73
A Grade Winner: Helen Mummery 71/101. A Grade Runner Up: Kerry Chapman 71/103 c/b.
Ball Winners: Ann Hazeldine, Kerry Newton, Faye McLees, Heather Street.
9 Hole Winner: Loretta Wales 19pts. 9 Hole Runner Up: M Fitridge 17pts.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Judy Bynon, 2/4 shot: Linda Lo us, 14th: Linda Lo us.
Putting: M Broz and K Chapman 25 putts.
and Al Randell both had 37 points.
David Drew had 36 points, while 35 points was enough for Sam Bakes, from Albury Commercial Club, to get a ball.
NTP on the seventh, along with the Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post O ce was David Drew.
David also took the ninth, the 17th was Bruce Plant, and the money on the 18th was handed out to Keith Archibald.
were outstanding.
Winners: Steve Grogan 24 H/C a very ne 42 pts, David Kelly 10 H/C 41 pts, Michael O’Sullivan 38 pts C/B.
Ball winners: Phil Jessen 38 pts, Tony Chalwell 37 pts, Colinn Richardson 36 pts, Heath Thompson 35 pts C/B.
NTPs - 3rd: Steve Grogan, 6th: Mark Stephenson, 11th: Crusty Carlisle, 16th: Beau Whitely. Chicken winner was Greg Anderson with 19 points.
The NAGA was a tight tussle at the bottom of the leader board with three golfers on 26 points, but on a countback, Mick Dunne fell over the line with 26 points. Friday, 16 May, Ladies Stableford competition, this week played on the front nine.
86 Standish Street, Myrtleford.
Phone: 03 5752 1493
Rear Unit 4, 4 Ireland Street Bright, Phone: 03 5750 1819
Email: info@tonerandassociates.com.au
Email: info@ovib.com.au Promote your
Phone Jenny on 57313305 or email jking@nemedia.com.au
Matthews Cleaning Encouragement Award: Chris Rowney 20 pts.
Ra e Winner: Paul Evans. Thursday, 15 May
Coles Stableford AMCR 73
A Grade Winner: Lyn Dwyer (33) 35pts c/b. A Grade Runner Up: Liz Orton (12) 35pts c/b.
Ball Winners: Heather Street 35pts c/b, Lucia DaPos 34pts c/b.
Sandra Piazza 34pts c/b.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Lucia DaPos, 8th: Marnie Broz, 14th: Faye McLees.
Wednesday, 14 May
Coles Stableford AMCR 71
A Grade Winner: Robert Toal (6) 40 pts. A Grade Runner Up: Robert Pickett (14) 39 pts.
B Grade Winner: Je ery Ramsdale (20) 36 pts. B Grade Runner Up: Peter Vasey (23) 35 pts c/b.
Ball Winners: I Giovannoni 38, C Walker 35, J Piddington 34, I Wales 34, H Van Der Henk 33, P Veldman 33.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Stephen Piddington, 4th 2nd Shot: Robert
THE ladies played the back nine on Wednesday, 14 May, which was won by Ute Svoboda with 18 points from Helen Whittaker with 16 points.
NTP, second shot, on the 18th was Carol Bartholomew
On Saturday, 17 May, the ladies played an 18-hole comp which was convincingly won by Carol Bartholomew with 40 points from Leesa Bevan with 38 points.
NTP, second shot, on the seventh was Leesa Bevan.
The men played the back nine on Wednesday, 14 May, which was won by Matt Richardson with 18 points from Macca Deans, Craig Docherty, Dave Browning and Roger Church all with 17 points each.
NTP on the 17th was Andy Cook, while Dave Browning was closest on the 18th.
Saturday, 17 May was a Stableford round for the men which was convincingly won by Allan Retallick with 40 points from Dave Etherton with 38 points. Luke Porritt, from Thurgoona,
DR Benjamin Rush once said in 1803, “Golf is an exercise which is much used by a gentleman in Scotland. A man would live 10 years longer for using this exercise once or twice a week”.
And with those wise words let’s see how the golfers, both gentlemen and ladies, went at Bright last week.
Monday Veteran’s all gender Stableford competition.
Winners: Jenny Richter 18 H/C 36 pts and in second place Nock Moschis 20 H/C 34 pts C/B.
Ball winners: Suzette Heydon 34 pts, Heather Thompson 33 pts C/B, Mark Stephenson 33 pts, Ian Browne 32 pts C/B.
NTPs – 3rd, 6th: Don Grimes, 11th: Heather Thompson, 16th: Glenn O’Connell.
Wednesday 20 May, ladies, Doris Chambers foursome’s stroke.
Winners: Anne Quenby and Bernadette Wickes, nett 67. Runners up: Carol Burgess and Libby Barker, nett 74.5.
NTPs - 3rd: Lauren Velicki, 6th: Anne Quenby 16th: Lisa Anders.
Thursday 15 May, Men’s Stableford competition.
A total of 34 golfers played with a couple of scores that
Winner was Kate Du with 14 pts and the ball winner was Jenny Richter 12 pts C/B. NTP on sixth went to Kate Du . Saturday, 17 May, all gender Stableford competition.
A eld of 62 golfers played with only Heather Thompson playing under her handicap to take out rst place.
Playing o 17 H/C, Heather returned with 38 pts.
Other winners were: Rod Brown 5 H/C 36 pts C/B, Mo O’Shea 13 H/C 36 pts, Sam Hall 3 H/C 35 pts C/B and Mark Stephenson 7 H/C 35 pts C/B.
Ball winners: Crusty Carlisle
35 pts, Greg Lee-Conway 34 pts C/B, Sam Lee-Conway 34 pts C/B, Tina Cook 34 pts, Tony Chalwell 34 pts, David Kelly 33 pts C/C and Phil Jesse 33 pts C/B.
NTPs – 3rd: Greg Freer, 6th: jackpot, 11th: Greg Anderson, 16th Heather Thompson.
The Bright Golf Guru fact of the week: Albert Einstein once said in an interview that he didn’t play golf because it was too complicated.
By NATHAN DE VRIES
THE annual La Fiera home xture at Savoy Park was a mixed bag in terms of results for Myrtleford’s senior sides.
The division one men’s side claimed victory over geographic rivals Wangaratta City 2-0 to claim the Van Der Steeg Shield, while the senior women fell 1-2 in their quest for the Christina Mancuso Cup.
Hot favourites heading into the game despite losing their rst clash last weekend, the Savoy men were forced to move the magnets around due to illness and injuries.
However, the young blood injected a spark into the contest and fought hard for the full 90 minutes.
With plenty of chances early, Savoy would score two rst half goals while defending exceptionally well.
With some more experienced players subbed out to manage injuries, the youth held up well in the back line, keeping the status quo of the match in check.
Senior coach Jayden Vescio said it was encouraging to see the up-andcomers play their role when asked.
“We had to shu e the magnets around a bit, a couple of the boys were out late with illness and carrying some injuries - it wasn’t ideal but it created opportunity,” he said.
“We started the game well, the boys were itching to get back on the park a er last weekend’s disappointment.
“Young Jack White got his rst senior start, that was pretty exciting, he’s been showing a lot in the
reserve grade and got his chance in the ones.
“We went in 2-0 and made some changes, Tom La Spina copped a good knock in the rst half and came o , so did Josh [Zito] and Connor [Caponecchia], so we were cautions.
“We got Bertie Wild onto the eld, another young kid who had played a few senior minutes before, and young Bodie McCabe, so it was good exposure for them.”
The division one team will look
to continue their unbeaten league season this Sunday on the road to St Pats.
“They’ve been a bit tricky – I know they’re third last but they’ve scored goals and they don’t concede lots of goals,” Vescio said.
“They haven’t historically gotten the points this year but by the looks of it they make you work for your own.
“It’ll be interesting – we should get a couple back, we should get Brenton Cook and Matty Richard-
son back, two pillars at either end.”
It was a challenging day for the division one women’s team, who fell to Wangaratta City in their match, failing to take the Christina Mancuso Cup, named in honour of a former player from both clubs who passed away too young.
TOOLS OF CHOICE: Greg Robbins ponders which set of bowls to use.
ONCE again, the weather favoured all bowlers with sunshine albeit a little chillier than previous Saturdays for the XXXX winter bowls competition.
The XXXX bowls competition match at Chiltern was very close and exciting with Bright sneaking home by just four shots.
Chiltern were undermanned due to a long-serving member’s 90th birthday, however Bright won one rink by a large margin to more than offset Chiltern winning two rinks.
The fourth rink on the day was drawn, providing an exciting finale to a great game.
The other game was played between Yackandandah and Myrtleford at Yackandandah on a very fast green.
The green saw quite a few bowls roll into the ditches as it challenged most bowlers’ control over staying in the head.
While Savoy dominated possession, connection up top and execution continues to be an issue.
passed away too young. sion, connection up top and execucontinues
Co-coach Tom Scott said it was a di cult day.
“It was a tough loss considering the emotions that are connected with the day,” he said.
the emotions that are connected with the day,” he said. ing the rst 30 minutes from a deep
“We were able to score rst during the rst 30 minutes from a deep cross by Alessia [Colanzi], but unfortunately, just before half-time we conceded from a defensive error.
“In the second half again, we were dominant but were caught from a fast break.
“Although these types of losses hurt, we have to use it to our advantage to nd motivation.
“We still are con dent in our brand of football and know once our forward issue changes, we can still be a strong squad heading into the second half of the year.”
Myrtleford took enough players to fill six rinks and came away with wins on four rinks and one draw.
Yackandandah won just one rink and drew another with Myrtleford, totalling 139 shots to 91 shots.
After the first two weeks only Myrtleford remain undefeated with two wins, while Bright and Chiltern have enjoyed a win each.
Bright hosts Yackandandah and Myrtleford travels to Chiltern, where both teams are expected to field stronger sides this Saturday.
The XXXX winter bowls competition is providing the opportunity for many newer players to learn more about the game and improve their skills with a lot of talent on display.
GOALS: YARRAWONGA: B. Kennedy 1, Z. Fraser 1, N. Pendergast 1, N. Fothergill 1, M. Findlay 1, J. Payne 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: S. Cattapan 4, N. Cooper 4, S. Murray 3, L. O’Brien 2, B. Filo 1, W. Christie 1, D. Wilson 1, A. McCarthy 1. BEST: YARRAWONGA: M. Findlay, D. Howe, B. Kennedy, C. Wilson, Z. Fraser, J. Urquhart. WANGARATTA ROVERS: L. O’Brien, B. Filo, J. Mcquade, S. Cattapan, N. Cooper, J. Dal Zotto.
A GRADE
Corowa R’glen 64 def Wodonga 46 Wangaratta 43 def by North Albury 50
Myrtleford 57 def Albury 51 Yarrawonga 75 def Wang Rovers 35 Wodonga Raiders 37 def Lavington 31
B GRADE
Wangaratta 49 def Nth Albury 29; Corowa R’glen 45 def Wodonga 41; Myrtleford 63 def Albury 42; Yarrawonga 56 def Wang Rovers 29; Wodonga Raiders 55 def Lavington 37. C GRADE
Wangaratta 52 def Nth Albury 33; Corowa R’glen 39 def by Wodonga 52; Myrtleford 70 def Albury 18; Yarrawonga 45 def Wang Rovers 41; Wodonga Raiders 46 def Lavington 14. 17 & UNDER
Wangaratta 52 def Nth Albury 33; Corowa R’glen 49 def by Wodonga 46; Myrtleford 51 def Albury 28; Yarrawonga 32 def by Wang Rovers 41; Wodonga Raiders 57 def Lavington 47. 15 & UNDER
Wangaratta 40 def by Nth Albury 44; Corowa R’glen 26 def by Wodonga 75; Myrtleford 63 def Albury 18; Yarrawonga 42 def Wang Rovers 28; Wodonga Raiders 51 def Lavington 20.
Myrtleford 4.1 (25) def by Albury 18.12 (120)
GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: T. Cooper 2, J. Hazeldine 1, R. Warner 1. ALBURY R. O’Sullivan 4, R. Tinworth 4, D. Dunstan 2, B. Hilton 1, J. Carey 1, I. Conlan 1, T. Delahunty 1, L. Wheatley 1, C. Sawyer 1, B. Moore 1, k. Piltz 1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: C. Ashworth, Z. Carroll, J. Hazeldine, C. Piazza, H. Stripeikis, R. Skahill. ALBURY R. Tinworth, R. O’Sullivan, L. Reid, B. Hilton, I. Conlan, S. O’Connell. Yarrawonga 4.3 (27) def by Wangaratta Rovers 15.20 (110)
GOALS: YARRAWONGA: w. thomson 1, C. McCarty 1, A. Jaques 1, T. Baxter 1. WANGARATTA ROVERS: C. Breheny 4, C. Boman 2, B. McMonigle 1, J. Correll 1, M. Semmens 1, A. Direen 1, H. Mullane 1, E. Saunders 1, E. White 1, H. Dodgshun 1, C. Johnson 1. BEST: YARRAWONGA J. Ibbott, t. baxter, R. Cameron, R. Bone, L. Henley, L. Eales. WANGARATTA ROVERS: J. Marek, C. Boman, C. Miller, C. Lugg, C. Breheny, M. Correll.
Wangaratta 11.12 (78) def Nth Albury 4.8 (32)
GOALS: WANGARATTA: H. Barry 3, W. Prebble 3, K. Hadley 2, R. Schultz 2, C. Kerwin 1, L. Sims 1. NORTH ALBURY: C. O’Rourke 2, H. Westmoreland 1. BEST: WANGARATTA: K. burrows, A. Jayet, O. Boyle, L. Sims, W. Petersen, W. Prebble. NORTH ALBURY: I. Daley, Z. Lambert, C. O’Rourke, H. Westmoreland, W. Harrington, C. Newton. Wod. Raiders 4.6 (30) def by Lavington 14.13 (97)
Corowa Rutherglen 3.3 (21) def by Wodonga 11.13 (79)
A GRADE: Nth Wangaratta 14 def by Goorambat 59; Greta 29 def by Bonnie Doon 43; Tarrawingee 34 def by Whorouly 36; Moyhu 35 def by Bright 58.
B GRADE: Nth Wangaratta 26 def by Goorambat 50; Greta 33 def by Bonnie Doon 37; Tannaringee 32 def Whorouly 31; Moyhu 31 def by Bright 53.
B RESERVE: Nth Wangaratta 23 def by Goorambat 44; Tarrawingee 33 def Whorouly 31; Moyhu 38 def Bright 34; Greta 32 draw Bonnie Doon 32.
C GRADE: Tarrawingee 36 def Whorouly 25; King Valley 44 def Benalla 24; Moyhu 39 def Bright 34; Greta 8 def Bonnie 10; Nth Wangaratta 20 def by Goorambat 43. 15 & UNDER: Tarrawingee 31 def by Whorouly 38; King Valley 34 def by Benalla 60; Moyhu 14 def by Bright 41; Greta 12 def by Bonnie Doon 21; Nth Wangaratta 49 def Goorambat 13.
No
SAT, MAY 24
NTH WANGARATTA vs GRETA
BRIGHT vs BENALLA ALL BLACKS
BONNIE DOON vs KING VALLEY
GOORAMBAT vs WHOROULY
MILAWA vs MOYHU
TARRAWINGEE - BYE
R’GLEN
GOALS: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: K. Bradtke 3, D. Hope 3, P. Lavis 1, J. Foote 1. WODONGA: A. Jorgensen 3, T. Miller 3, R. Bourke 2, Z. Harding 2, T. O’Sullivan 1. BEST: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: T. Roos, C. Schutt, D. Hope, K. Bradtke, R. Murphy, R. Irvin. WODONGA: Z. Harding, A. Jorgensen, T. O’Sullivan, M. Wilson, C. Ainsworth, C. Morrison.
GOALS: WANGARATTA: W. O’keefe 2, A. Tilley 2, P. Heatley 2, X. Laverty 2, J. Clarke 2, T.
Norton 1, B. Melville 1, B. Newton 1, W. Tua 1, B. Marjanovic 1, F. Ellis 1. NORTH ALBURY: F. Gardiner 2, F. Gardiner 1, T. Broomhead 1, J. Murphy 1, L. Taylor 1, C. Winter 1, B. Rigoni 1. BEST: WANGARATTA: T. Norton, N. Richards, J. Clarke, C. Knowles, B. Melville, M. Bordignon. NORTH ALBURY: G. Godde, I. Campbell, K. Flack, F. Gardiner.
RAIDERS
GOALS: WODONGA RAIDERS: J. Burke 3, C. Rich 1, W. Robertson 1, Z. Sartore 1. LAVINGTON: S. Driscoll 5, A. Swinnerton 2, J. Costello 2, C. Sanson 2, J. O’Brien 2. BEST: WODONGA RAIDERS: W. Fordham, I. Kotzur, C. Rich, N. Bracher, W. Robertson, C. St John. LAVINGTON: S. Driscoll, J. Glanvill, J. Costello, A. Swinnerton, A. Bennett, C. Annett.
8 (44)
BEST: COROWA-R’GLEN: D. Yates, H. Canning, J. Kuschert, T. Young, B. Minogue, J. Keys. WODONGA: R. Thompson, B. Oates, D. Cameron, H. Venturoni, G. McKimmie, C. Williamson. Yarrawonga 6 5 (41) Wang Rovers: 5 15 (45)
BEST: YARRAWONGA: T. Gorman, A. Dickins, B. Symes, J. Robinson, D. Flanagan, C. Courtney. Wangaratta Rovers: H. Nolan, D. Booth, H. Lloyd, O. Clelland, H. McCarthy, J. Cook. Wangaratta............... 7.7 (49) North Albury 5 7 (37) BEST: WANGARATTA: N. O’Kane, H. Graham, P. Wright, O. Roberts, J. Styles, C. Ross. North Albury: K. Duncan, J. McKenzie, R. Smith, J. King, C. Summers, B. Spurr.
MAY 24
ROUND 7
GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: R. Sharp 2, R. Smith 2, K. Agosta 2, T. Cappellari 1, D. Bren 1, M. Munro 1. ALBURY: J. Pitt 2, R. Garthwaite 2, H. Cameron 1, M. Bender 1, T. Miller 1, K. HeinerHennessy 1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: J. East, M. Tenardi, B. Calogero, M. Munro, T. Cappellari, R. Smith. ALBURY: I. Muller, J. Gaynor, J. Pitt, K. Heiner-Hennessy, M. Duncan, J. Kelly. MYRTLEFORD 2.5 3.10
GOALS: GRETA: C. Crawford 2, T. Cheer 1, F. Judd 1, J. Bell 1, J. McClounan 1.
BONNIE DOON: C. Turner 2, E. Ree-Goodings 1, M. Cocks 1, J. Curtin 1, J. Magro 1, J. Sanford 1, T. Berenyi 1.
BEST: GRETA: C. Green, J. McClounan, T. Fursdon, T. Cheer, X. Wales, P. Fruzynski. BONNIE DOON: J. Curtin, J. Law, A. Hill, J. Sanford, P. Smith, C. Turner.
NTH WANGARATTA 4.2 8.3 11.9 12.11.83 GOORAMBAT 4.0 9.1 12.2 14.4.88
GOALS: NORTH WANGARATTA: J. Kemp 5, D. Bradley 2, J. Nanson 2, D. Killen 1, T. Nanson
1, B. Lane-Gee 1. GOORAMBAT: D. Haebich 4, R. Goodley 3, B. Stepien 2, A. Moloney 1, A. Blackburn 1, J. Dunne 1, K. Black 1, T. Nolan 1.
BEST: NORTH WANGARATTA: P. Killen, K. McQuade, T. Schulze, J. Devine, J. Kemp, D. Killen.
GOORAMBAT: A. Blackburn, R. Goodley, Z. Amarant, T. Nolan, B. Reaburn, J. Dunne.
TARRAWINGEE 3.4 4.6
WHOROULY 1.0 0 0 0
GOALS: TARRAWINGEE: N. Gorman 5, C. Chamberlain 1, O. Sharp 1, A. Cook 1, S. Piper 1. WHOROULY: M. Newton 6, Z. Bladon 1, M. Vescio 1.
BEST: TARRAWINGEE: O. Sharp, N. Gorman, H. Amery, C. Chamberlain, S. Piper, T. Salmon.
WHOROULY: J. Smith, C. Wood, M. Newton, M. Harris, Z. Bladon, M. Vescio.
SATURDAY, MAY 31 WANG ROVERS vs COROWA RUTHERGLEN WODONGA vs MYRTLEFORD NORTH ALBURY vs YARRAWONGA LAVINGTON vs WANGARATTA RAIDERS vs ALBURY
C. Matheson, D. Williams, A. Knights, J. Brown, L. Clark, T. Morris. GOORAMBAT: A. Ellis, D. Priest, G. Kirk, W. Hyland, D. Brain, N. Panuccio. Tarrawingee
(66)
(36)
By NATHAN DE VRIES
WHOROULY sent a message to the A grade competition they’re not to be taken lightly a er downing the touted Tarrawingee by two goals on their own court. Up against the Bulldogs, it was a defensive masterclass from the Lions, who would hold on in a thriller 36-34.
The Lions built from the back early, limiting Tarrawingee to just ve rst-quarter goals, breaking out to a ve-goal lead a er the rst 15 minutes.
Tarrawingee would strike back hard in the second quarter, bringing the margin back to just one goal by the long break through some incredible shooting and court-wide pressure.
Whorouly would meet the challenge head on, trading goals with the Bulldogs but always defending hard, leading 22-24 at the nal change.
In the end, the Lions would have the last laugh, banking the four points and keeping their incredible season on track.
Ebony Allen and Laura Keighan did an amazing job on one of the best shooters in the league in Kaylee Allan, who shot 24 goals at 66 per cent accuracy, while Abbey Forrest, Katie Ivone and Tayla Allen combined well for the Lions.
Whorouly now sits third overall on the A grade ladder with a record of 5-1, setting up a scintillating showdown with top team Goorambat this weekend.
It was a day of close contests on the court, with the 15 and under side getting up 38-31, while C grade (25-36), B reserve (31-33), and B grade (31-32) all fell.
It was a harrowing day on the football eld for the senior Lions, who were humbled by Tarrawingee 8.5 (53) to 9.12 (66).
Heavy favourites heading into the match, the Lions looked o their best, failing around the contest and making simple skill errors.
The Lions started to work into
A GRADE LADDER
1 Goorambat 22 145.69
2 Milawa 22 138.89
3 Whorouly 22 131.84
4 Tarrawingee 22 124.83
5 Bonnie Doon 20 129.14
6 Bright 20 115.00
7 Moyhu 12 105.49
8 King Valley 8 71.66
9 Greta 4 79.13
10 Benalla All Blacks 4 67.42
11 North Wangaratta 0 38.20
the game a er slow rst quarter, but were only ahead on the scoreboard at half-time thanks to a Michael Newton goal a er the siren.
It was a second half to forget, but a reality check for the squad, with Newton (six goals), Jessie Smith and Cam Wood among the best on ground for the Lions.
Whorouly will have to bounce back in a major way to respond this weekend, up against the bats who are proving they’re going to be tough to beat come September.
The senior match was a contrast to the reserves, which saw Whorouly pick up their second win of the season 10.12 (72) to 5.9 (39).
A DOMINANT seven-goal second quarter has helped Bright win their sixth match of the season and subsequently return to the summit of the OKFNL ladder.
The Mountain Men recorded a 61-point win on the road against Moyhu and regained top spot thanks to Milawa having their turn for a week o and maintaining a superior percentage.
Bright opened up a two and a half goal lead in a lowscoring opening term, before forcing open the oodgates to hold a half-time advantage of 38 points.
The Hoppers had their turn to respond and while they won the third quarter, they were wasteful in front of goals and couldn’t make up any signi cant ground on the morefancied Mountain Men.
In the end, Bright’s experience and polish saw them ex-
tend the lead to nish with a respectable 19.6 (120) to 8.11 (59) victory. Ever-reliable captain Sam Dalbosco led from the front once again in the middle of the ground and was in uential at stoppages.
A spread of ten players contributed to the 19-goal e ort, as Cooper Thomason (six goals), James Love (four), Cy Banks (three) and Wayland Wales (two) all got busy inside their forward arc.
Last Saturday’s total saw
Thomason rocket to the top of the goalkicking leaderboard a er eight rounds, with his season tally of 41 goals now slightly ahead of Goorambat’s Duane Haebich (40) and Michael Newton from Whorouly (39).
the lead out to thirteen and nineteen in the second and third quarter respectively, before nishing the game with 58 goals to 35.
Emily Nightingale continued her stellar season with 43 goals and a best on court performance, while Amber Quirk controlled the defensive end with authority.
In an A grade netball battle between sixth and seventh, it was the higher-placed Bright who celebrated the win by 23 goals. Moyhu were chasing the lead from the start, as Bright created a nine-goal gap at quarter-time, then pushed
While Bright will stay in sixth position on the league table for now, there is amazingly only two points, or one draw, between the top six teams, making this arguably the most competitive and even season of netball in recent history. Bright will be looking for further success on the eld and court as they take on Benalla All Blacks this Saturday at Pioneer Park. Senior football kicks o 2pm, while A grade netball starts at 2.30pm.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
IT’S rare a team can kick 21 behinds and still come away with the four points, but such was Myrtleford’s dominance over Albury on Saturday.
The Saints weren’t exactly clinical inside forward 50 but won’t complain with a 22-point win over the Tigers, 9.21 (75) to 8.5 (53).
Myrtleford were on top early but it didn’t show on the scoreboard until a er half-time, when the Saints had generated six more scoring shots than the Tigers but only led by a point.
The game became a lot more free- owing a er the break, and the Saints started to nd their way to goal more cleanly.
Myrtleford dominated late in the match but weren’t able to ice the game in the way they’d prefer, kicking 4.5 in the nal quarter to secure the points.
Senior coach Craig Millar said the boys would have to pack their goal kicking boots next time.
“It’s one of those weeks, fortunately it didn’t come back to bite us, but we had plenty of looks, 30 scoring shots to 13, so we de nitely had our opportunity to really stamp our authority, but we weren’t able to do it,” he said.
“I just feel like it was a really important game for both clubs, in the optics of the season leading into the bye.
“We de nitely kicked poorly, we nished with 21 points for the game, so we’ve got a bit of work to do in front of goals.
“I was really proud of a really disciplined game, it was a nail-biter
■ From back page
“It was super tough to maintain the lead because Albury shot really accurately.
“It felt like every time it got in their got end a goal was scored, so we knew we had to apply pressure higher up the court and try and turn the ball over earlier.”
The Saints sit seventh overall with two wins and four losses from the st third of the season.
While the mountain to September action looms high, and it won’t be easy, Myrtleford remains in
IN
pretty much until three quarter time.
“Even in the last quarter, they got back within 14 points and we were good enough to hold them at arm’s length until the end.
“Our poor kicking kept them in the game, and we know poor kicking is not great footy.”
Jaxon East was once again tremendous for the Saints, nishing with 26 disposals and 10 contested possessions in a best on ground performance, while Mitch Tenardi, Tom Cappellari and Bowen Calogero were also in uential.
While the Tigers won the hitout count by 21 through titan Isaac Muller, the Saints’ blossoming ruck duo of Toby Cossor and Riley Smith wore Muller down as the game went on.
While they lost hitouts, Myrtleford won clearances by four, disposals by 62, and inside 50s by 30, a sure sign the backs and mid elders are linking up spectacularly.
“It was a really mature game from our mid eld, a er half-time they really stepped it up and started to use the hands a little bit better than what was happening in the rst half,” Millar said.
“They were all super, that inside mid eld group we have.
“I thought it was a really mature game from Toby Cossor and big Riley Smith - I think Riley Smith took 10 marks around the ground, he had an in uence around the ground for us, and Toby continues to improve week on week as a young ruckman.”
The result sees Myrtleford’s senior side sit third overall a er the
contention if they play their best netball for the rest of the season.
However, this weekend presents a chance for the Saints, and indeed the majority of the league, to take a breather.
This weekend, the Ovens and Murray takes on Goulburn Valley League in the annual interleague showdown.
Several Saints have been named in the provisional squads for the under 15, under 17 and Open squads, with a nal call on the makeup of the teams to be made this week.
IT took 60 minutes of fastpaced netball to separate the teams, but Dederang-Mount Beauty have failed to take a big scalp in their heartbreaking two-goal defeat to fellow contenders Thurgoona last Saturday.
In one of the best Tallangatta league A grade netball games of the season, the Bombers were in front on the scoreboard for the majority of the contest, but the lead slipped from their grasp when it mattered most, eventually falling 48-50 against last year’s preliminary nalists.
An area of focus heading into the games was to start well and DMB followed their script with a 15-13 quarter-time advantage, before the match was all tied up at 24 goals each.
As expected, the third quarter remained a goalfor-goal ball game as the Bombers edged ahead by a single goal at the last break, but unfortunately for the home side, they couldn’t hold on against an experienced Bulldogs lineup.
DMB coach Alex Dyde had mixed feelings a er the loss.
“Regardless of the result, it was a phenomenal match to watch,” Dyde said.
Melissa Beattie
rst six matches, behind only the ever-dangerous Wangaratta and reigning premiers Rovers.
“Our players have been training really hard for a long period of time now,” Millar said.
“This is not six weeks of work, this is probably 18 months of work to build consistent in their game and step up and rise to the challenge of being a really good Ovens and Murray senior player.
“We’ve still got a long way to go, but I feel like there’s a degree of self-con dence in our group at the moment that we can match it with the top teams.”
The Saints sit this weekend out, with the annual interleague xture between the O&M and GVL to be held at WJ Findlay Oval this Saturday.
“We played well so it was hard to take a loss, but it was such a close game the whole time.
“One turnover in the nal stages was all it took for them to take the win, but the girls are nding the positives and we are con dent we can take them next time.
“A few minor tweaks and correcting some of our own errors will see us improve further.”
Commenting on her side’s next opponent, Yackandandah, Dyde was certainly wary of the challenges that the Bombers may have to contend with.
“Yack are a dark horse and they’re not to be underestimated,” Dyde added.
“We have strong attacking end plays that have really solidi ed the past few rounds and has gotten smoother each week.
“Heading into the bye obviously we would like to have one or two more wins on the board,” La Spina said.
“I think the Lavington game is one that we may rue, but overall I believe we’re playing really good netball.
“We certainly have the ability to push the top teams, we just will continue to work on our four quarter e orts.”
STRONG CONTRIBUTOR: Saige Broz was impactful across the court.
“We won’t be taking the foot o the pedal and intend to give it our everything to take a win.”
Thurgoona also had the advantage on the adjacent oval, winning both the seniors and reserves football matches by big margins against DederangMount Beauty.
The Bombers were thoroughly outplayed across all lines by the Bulldogs, who converted their superiority into a 205-point thumping away from home – 2.3 (15) to 32.28 (220).
Cameron Benkovic kicked both majors for DMB, while Seth Albon, Emerson Lemkau and Jacob Ozolins were names as the Bombers’ best three contributors on a tough day for the home side.
Whorouly’s A grade side limited Tarrawingee to their lowest total all season in their 3634 win, with Laura Keighran playing a starring role in defence.
■ Story page 29
Saints A grade pick up crucial scalp heading into leaguewide bye
THE season is still well and truly alive for Myrtleford’s A grade netball squad, a er the Saints picked up the points in their must-win clash with Albury at McNamara Reserve on Saturday. Up against a mighty Tigers out t, the Saints fought hard to grind out a phenomenal 57-51 win, with the entire team saluting.
Myrtleford worked their way to a two goal lead a er the rst 15 minutes of play, but had to shu e
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
their attacking end around a er goal attack Emma Sharp sustained an injury.
Oncoming shooter Taylah Reidy worked well with Daisey O’Kane to push the lead out to six goals by the long break.
Defensive pressure from
both squads was sky high, with turnovers galore across the court.
The second half brought more of the same pressure, but the Saints worked their way through it to hold a ve-goal lead heading into the nal period of play.
The Tigers continued to press hard, feeding their shooters well who would put the ball in the net more o en than not.
But Myrtleford persevered, ghting tooth and nail to run out
winners by just six goals.
Coach Olivia La Spina said it was a brilliant performance from her side.
“The game was pretty tightly contested - we got out to an early lead by four or ve goals and it stayed there for majority of the match,” she said.
“We had an early eye injury to Emma Sharp, so we had to bring Tay [Reidy] on halfway through the rst quarter, and she and Daisy played beautifully together.
“They both have a lot of con dence in each other to put the shot up, and prepare for any rebounds, and they both have great netball minds, so they feed o each other really well.
“I think in the second quarter we become more con dent in our passing and drives and were letting the ball go a lot more freely, resulting in more scoreboard pressure.
■ Continued page 30
Mt Hotham Falls Creek News covers all aspects of mountain life both on and off the slopes and is the dedicated media servicing Mt Hotham, Falls Creek, Dinner Plain and the Great Alpine Road.
