THE Bright ‘Make It, Bake It, Grow It’ Market was bustling on Saturday, with many stalls selling out well before the market ended at 1pm. Central Coast residents (From left) Amelia and Gemma Brown, with Cheryl Lee and Imogen Brown, were enjoying the music at the soundshell during their three-day stay in Bright.
BRIGHT
RSL sub-branchis holding its annual general meeting this Friday, with two surprise additions to the agenda.
The AGM will be held from 3:30pm at the RSL on Camp Street before a 4pm unveiling of the subbranch’s new memorial.
President Philip Keeghan said all were welcome to come along.
“The new memorial, a stone face for our small park area, will showcase two soldiers either side, one World War I and one peacekeeping silhouette as well as plaques for the three services; army, navy, airforce and plaques for police, ambulance, SES and the fire brigade,” he said. “This was made possible thanks to a $3000 donation from the Bendigo Bank and everyone involved in the making of the project.
“We’ll also be unveiling a World War I nurse with a connection to Bright.”
Bright RSL vice president Judy Moore has spent the last five years researching the life of Florence Maud Howitt, who will be honoured this Friday.
“She was Bright born and am original ANZAC girl; she was on Lemnos Island during the Gallipoli
campaign,” she said.
“She has no relation to the Howitts in the area and I’m not sure if we will ever find relatives for her.
“She graduated from the Alfred Hospital and went to Adelaide in charge of the theatres there before leaving for war in May 1915 just after the Gallipoli campaign began.
“She was bombed while operating in France in 1918
but survived and returned to Australia on February 2, 1920 where she met her future husband aboard the Port Macquarie while coming home.
“She was part of the Australian Army Nursing Service and the Returned Nurses Club which is part of the RSL.
“She was never honoured so it will be a great moment to unveil her
photo and remember her this Friday.”
The photo of Florence, taken in Turkey, will be unveiled around 5:45pm at the RSL this Friday.
This is the second nurse to be commemorated at the RSL in recent months, funded by the State Government’s Victoria Remembers Program.
In March a framed photograph of World War II nurse Monica McMahon was also unveiled at the RSL.
MYRTLEFORD locals are hoping to erect a bust in memory of popular town doctor, community member and serviceman Peter Broughton, and are seeking interested community members for a working committee to start the project.
So far the group consists of locals David Hogg, Barb Nannipieri, and Anita Toner, but they need more if they are to get the project underway, according to Mr Hogg.
BY BRODIE EVERIST beverist@ nemedia.com.au
received strong interest when discussed on a Facebook post on a local community page, Mr Hogg said.
including making house calls or delivering babies.
“He was a great doc; he patched me up so many times,” Mr Hogg said.
“Stitched my hand up, fixed my broken collarbone.”
“I’d like to get just some interested people in Myrtleford to help get this over the line,” he said.
“We just need to start on it,” he said.
Two town locations have been mooted with council, Mr Hogg said, while initial enquiries suggest a price of $16,000 for the bust, but discussions have been preliminary.
The project idea also
“We have had people say this is a good idea, but now we need to go ahead, organise some funding, get the bust made.
“I think it’s going to be something pretty easy to get done, but I’ve just got to get the ball rolling.”
Dawn Service at the town memorial at 6.00am. All welcome to join in the Anzac Day commemorations with the Myrtleford Sub-Branch Dawn service. Please arrive well before 6.00am to be given a lit candle and a hot drink. Dawn Service will run between 6.00 and 6.30am and will be immediately followed by a Gunfire Breakfast in the beer garden of the Buffalo Hotel for a gold coin donation.
March. Assemble at the RSL at 34 Smith Street by 10.30am to join the Anzac Day march from the RSL to the Myrtleford cenotaph, along Clyde Street. Main service at 11.00am at the A. D. Lowerson VC Memorial Square. Features special guests including Mayor John Forsyth, Cr Ron Janas, Myrtleford Citizen of the Year, Paul Tanner, Peacekeeping Veteran, Tom Hanley, Executive Director & Board member of the APPVA, Mr and Mrs Jim and Lyn Murtagh and Major Adam Read RAEME, Officer Commanding
According to notes provided by his daughter Barb Nannipieri, Dr Broughton was born in 1920, served in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) during World War II and then as an air gunner.
He moved to Myrtleford in the 1960s where he began working at the Standish Street Surgery. Several records note his selflessness and willingness to work long hours,
Reportedly, many babies born in town were named after him.
According to Ms Nannipieri’s notes, Dr Broughton was involved in a raft of community initiatives.
He joined the Rotary Club of Myrtleford in 1969, served as Rotary president
Electrical and Electronic Systems Wing, Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering as guest speaker. Arrive before 10.45am to get a seat and see the march and the catafalque party take post, shortly afterwards. Limited seating available with a preference given to the elderly and families with small children. The service will be supported by a catafalque party and flag attendants from the Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, Bandiana; local schools and community organisations.
Unveiling of Special Memorial to Australian Peacekeepers at the RSL, immediately follows the 11.00am service
twice and was awarded the Paul Harris fellowship in 1988 in recognition of his contribution to the establishment of Hawthorn Lodge and the extension of Barwidgee Lodge.
He was a life governor of the Myrtleford War Memorial District Hospital and a member of the hospital board.
He also served with Legacy and helped initiate Meals on Wheels in Myrtleford.
To get involved contact David Hogg on 0427 823 951, or by email at stumphogg666@gmail.com.
AN estimated 90 people attended the opening ceremony of the Australian Touring RV Club’s 10day National Rally last Wednesday afternoon – a relaxed affair at the Myrtleford Recreation Reserve’s AW Richardson Pavilion.
The event began with an unfurling of the club’s flag at the back of the pavilion, to complement an Australian Flag and Victorian flag that had already been raised.
Then attendees returned to the pavilion for speeches by club president Wendy Abraham and Alpine shire mayor John Forsyth.
As well as the many touring afficionados, the event also welcomed members of the Myrtleford Recreation Committee and Myrtleford Chamber of Commerce president Jim van Geet.
Ms Abraham welcomed everyone to the event and thanked the many club organisers, including the rally subcommittee, for their work.
She also thanked the chamber of commerce, and the recreation reserve committee for the use of the reserve, which housed club members’ caravans.
According to their schedule, club members were to visit a range of regional sites over the last seven days, including trips to Glenrowan, Beechworth and Bright.
They were to attend barefoot
By BRODIE EVERISTBRIGHT’s gateway trees at the entrance to the town will be considered for heritage listing, but this is unlikely to confer protection for trees already slated for removal for the Bright Valley development, according to the planning company behind the nearby housing project.
Bright’s Gateway Protection Group announced last week their nomination for Bright’s street trees, including the gateway trees, to be included in the Victorian Heritage Register had been accepted for consideration.
“The news comes as no surprise to the community group, who have been advocating for the preservation of the trees for over 12 months,” they said in a statement.
“[The trees] hold a deeply significant place in the social and cultural fabric of the Bright township.
“The notice of official consideration for the Victorian Heritage Register begins a process that could ultimately see Bright’s street trees given strong legal protection for generations to come.”
However, according to a statement from Bright Valley develop-
bowls and Kym Goodman’s laughter club on Thursday.
They will also be attending the Myrtleford Anzac Day service tomorrow.
In his speech Mr Forsyth encouraged club members to explore the Alpine Shire during their free time, detailing many of the popular sites like Mount
Buffalo and Lake Buffalo, as well as popular restaurants, wineries and shops.
“It’s great to see you all here and exploring our region,” he said.
“You’ll have some unforgettable days while you’re here.
“I know from your program that it’s pretty packed, but there is some free time so please get
out there and just enjoy.”
This year is the 25th anniversary of the touring club, founded in 1999 as the Australasian Touring Caravan, Motorhome and Camping Club.
The club had planned to visit Myrtleford in 2020, but the event was cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions.
BRIGHT Garden Club member Christine Baker was awarded a life membership for over 20 years’ continual service at the club’s meeting this month.
Club president Sally Peet presented the badge to Ms Baker and thanked her for organising many of their trips and travels, from one-day carpooling trips to 3-day bus trips interstate.
Reportedly, all members present joined in a hearty round of applause.
On April 30 the club invites the community to join them at the Senior Citizens/U3A Hall at 7:30pm to hear a talk by horticulturalist Chloe Thomson, who produces the ‘Behind the Garden Gate’ video series.
Entry is $10 and includes supper.
Bendigo Bank Bright has sponsored her visit as part of the Bright Autumn Festival.
BRIGHT Singers are bringing you a smorgasbord of classic pop tunes with two nights of performances spanning music from the 1950s to early 2000s.
ment planners Human Habitats, the potential heritage controls are unlikely to impact Bright Valley as council have already granted approval for the central access, including the anticipated loss of two of the large gateway trees.
“Heritage controls, if applied, are unlikely to protect every tree from the protected avenues,” they said.
“Instead, it will require consideration of the impact of any proposed tree removal has on the integrity of the tree avenue, relative to other planning considerations.
“This aligns with the extensive process the Bright Valley Project team have already undertaken to minimise the loss of trees and prioritise retention of the trees with the highest arboricultural value.
“Ultimately the site requires (and is entitled to) access, and the intersection design process has successfully minimised the loss of larger trees within the Great Alpine Road reserve to two, which is in line with Council’s expectations.
“This first entry location protects all of the Great Alpine Road avenue trees that were assessed
as ‘high arboricultural value’ and facilitates the retention of a row of forty 50-year-old Cottonwoods (that would otherwise have been removed) within a road reserve.”
Two mature trees are to be removed from the avenue and three semi-mature trees are to be relocated to provide an entrance for the housing estate to the Great Alpine Road.
In November last year Alpine Shire Council approved stages one and two of the development.
Despite a media report suggesting even the consideration of heritage listing could protect the trees, a Heritage Victoria spokesperson confirmed the consideration conferred no extra protection for the gateway trees.
According to Human Habitats, the trees would only be protected during the assessment stages if ‘interim controls’ were applied.
“Interim controls are only applied when Heritage Victoria are of the view that there is a considerable need to urgently protect heritage places,” they said.
“The ‘Acceptance’ correspondence from Heritage Victoria sug-
gests that’s unlikely in this instance.”
Trees under heritage consideration include those along Gavan Street, Delany Street, Burke Street, Anderson Street, Wood Street, Ireland Street and Railway Avenue, as well as the gateway trees.
According to an email sighted by the Myrtleford Times/Alpine Observer, the acceptance of the nomination will be followed by an assessment of the nomination by a Heritage Victoria officer, then a recommendation to the Heritage Council, public notice of the recommendation, a potential hearing by the Heritage Council and a final determination by the council.
According to Heritage Victoria, the length of time taken to assess a site depends on the complexity of the nomination, however, once a recommendation is made, it will be open for public submissions with the possibility of a hearing for 60 days.
When a place is added to the Victorian Heritage Register by the Heritage Council of Victoria, a heritage permit is required for demolition, removal or development.
Bring along your singing voice to join in with the singers’ rendition of My Fair Lady (1950s), Unchained Melody, Eye of the Tiger and more.
The performances are a $5 entry and will both be held at the Bright Senior Citizens Centre at 10 Cobden Street from 4pm on Sunday, April 28 and Sunday, May 5.
ON page five of the April 17 edition of the Myrtleford Times/Alpine Observer the paper incorrectly reported that Alpine Shire councillor Katarina Hughes voted against approving just over $30,000 of extra funding for the second stage of the Porepunkah landfill rehabilitation.
Cr Hughes did vote for the approval, but a time lag caused by her appearance over video meant it appeared she voted against. We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused.
TWO-lane access on the Bogong High Plains Road will return in late May, according to Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV).
The government body announced last week that major remediation and prevention works along Bogong High Plains Road will finish ahead of the busy snow season.
According to MRPV, to prepare for the reopening workers will complete pavement and line marking works, clean the road, add new and reinstate existing signage and reduce the level of traffic management.
They will also finish repairs for the second smaller landslip located down the mountain towards Mount Beauty, with the construction of a large retaining wall nearing completion.
“After the devastating landslip our crews have worked tirelessly to not only repair the damage to Bogong High Plains Road but to prevent the risk of another dangerous landslip reoccurring
“With increased visitation, we’ve had to close the resort on several occasions over the last few years due to car park capacity limits,” Falls Creek chief operating officer Stuart Smythe said.
“One of the few positives to come from the landslip was the ability to utilise some of the offtake as infill for new parking bays.
“In addition to those spaces added last year, an additional 200 overnight spaces have been created at Ropers Saddle.
“This will help to ensure the resort can meet forecast demand.”
for refusing a breath test at the Myrtleford Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
A COBUNGRA man was fined and lost his licence for refusing a breath test at the Myrtleford Magistrate’s Court last Friday.
Police prosecution said the man had been stopped by police on January 9 last year while driving on the Great Alpine Road from Mount Hotham to Dinner Plain.
According to the prosecutor, the accused refused a breath test four times and the police seized his car keys.
His lawyer requested a modest fine and said the man has dramatically decreased his alcohol consumption since the incident.
“He takes responsibility for it,” he said.
“It was a terrible error of judgement.”
here – making it safer for those heading up to the slopes this snow season and for the entire Falls Creek community,” Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne said.
“The Bogong High Plains Road provides vital access to Victoria’s high country and its safe reopening will help ensure
locals and visitors can move freely.”
Falls Creek Alpine Resort also announced the news last week, saying they have been busy preparing for the 2024 snow season.
According to the resort, a new 200-space overnight car park located at Roper’s Saddle is nearly complete.
The announcement coincided with information sessions on the landslide remediation in Falls Creek and Mount Beauty last week.
There were around 73 attendees for the session at the Mount Beauty Community Centre on Thursday, with a welcome barbecue provided by Red Cross members.
AROUND 60 attended wellknown psychologist Dr Michael Carr-Gregg’s appearance in Bright last Wednesday night at the pavilion in Pioneer Park.
Speaking to the Myrtleford Times/Alpine Observer prior to his presentation, Dr Carr-Gregg said the seminar would cover the importance of early intervention and treatment for young people experiencing substance abuse, depression or anxiety.
“Ninety per cent of young people who take their own lives in rural and remote Australia have one of those mental health problems,” he said.
“If you are depressed, you’re miserable most of the day, most of the time you won’t be sleeping well, you’ll be off your appetite, and you won’t be able to concentrate, you won’t be able to focus.
“You might have frequent thoughts of not being here anymore.”
According to mental health organisation Beyond Blue, symptoms of anxiety include feeling very worried or anxious most of the time, finding it difficult to calm down, an inability to control anxious thoughts or worries, difficulty concentrating and feeling tired easily.
“Depression and anxiety can overlap, so you can have both at
the same time,” Dr Carr-Gregg said.
“My message to the audience today is going to be early intervention.
“If you see the signs, get into a GP – that’s the first and most important thing.”
The free seminar was hosted by North East Support and Action for Youth (NESAY), a youth
and family community agency based in Wangaratta and Benalla.
It was held as part of #BeKindToYourMind week, where numerous mental health events were held in the Alpine Shire from April 13-19 thanks to the work of the Myrtleford Football and Netball Club, Alpine Health and NESAY.
Magistrate Peter Dunn said the accused was fortunate no one had been hurt.
“If you had blown a breathalyser you’d be far better off,” he said.
The man was fined $750, plus court costs, and lost his licence for four years.
I WAS one of the group of riders that was a part of the Ride for Research that came to Bright and I would like to thank the Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer for their articles and all the wonderful community groups and businesses that got behind us, supporting us in so many different ways.
Your town is beautiful on the inside and outside as an amazing place to visit and with a community that has a heart of gold.
I would like to pass on my personal heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you in Bright, Victoria, for making my stay and the Ride for Research into juvenile ovarian cancer such a success. Your contribution in whatever roles played are integral to saving lives of currently an incurable disease.
IN an incredible show of love and friendship, this group of Bright men are taking on a 44 kilometre marathon to raise money for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy research and support their mate Dylan Sgambelloni.
Bright local Rob Merrett said the group will be fundraising for the Save Our Sons Duchenne Foundation (SOS) while running the Great Ocean Road Marathon in May.
“We’re a group of Dylan Sgambelloni’s mates, who have grown up with him in Bright and the surrounding community,” he said.
“We have all had the pleasure and privilege of sharing life with Dylan and throughout his life have know him as a strong, resilient and positive person.
“His can-do attitude is a testament to Dyl and his urge to live life to the absolute fullest.
“His unwavering support, encouragement and love of us, his friends, has inspired us to run the Great Ocean Road Marathon this year.
“It has also driven us to raise money in support of SOS.
“We just want to make a difference and we can run and we can raise money.
“We can do the things that Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy has taken from Dylan.”
The group comprises Rob Merrett, Lachy Hofbauer, Harry Jamieson, Nick Vey, Daniel Taberner, Max Brotto, Tasman
If anyone wants to contribute further the donation page will continue to run all year at https://www.rocinc.org.au/.
Richard Odgers, Wynnum
Cocks-Wheaton, Gen Taberner, Will Stevenson-Vissers, Matt Shem, Harrison Dalbosco and Jed Pryor.
According to SOS, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is the most common muscle disease of childhood with one in every 3500 newborn boys diagnosed with Duchenne and, more rarely, one in 50 million girls are diagnosed.
SOS explains the first muscles affected are those around the hips and upper thigh before weakness gradually progresses to include all the muscles used for movement (skeletal muscles), the muscles used for breathing and the heart.
Unfortunately, Mr Merrett
said Dylan’s symptoms are progressing.
“Although he assures his mates he’s ok, we can only begin to imagine just how difficult some of the hurdles he must face on an everyday basis,” he said.
“That’s Dylan though, resilient and determined in the face of extreme adversity.
“Through the generosity of the Bright and surrounding community, sponsorships, friends, families, and complete strangers, we are aiming to raise as much money as we can to try and find a cure for his debilitating disease.
“We are in the process of designing some custom-made sin-
glets and hats for the team to wear during the run, as well as some merchandise to boost our fundraising efforts.
“So far we have been lucky enough to have had multiple sponsors donate to the cause.” Â
The group’s sponsors include John Pryor, Mitch Dalbosco Electrical, Torque Electrical Services, Dalbosco Wines, Bright Accounting, Bright Rotary, Bright FNC, Dylan Wilson Torque Electrical, BDO and Ashfords Accountants.
You can donate to the cause at https://gofund.me/36d4aabb which can be accessed by the QR code with this article.
The Great Ocean Road Marathon is held across May 18 and 19.
MOST drivers take a twohour trip on the Midland Highway to go from Mansfield to Bright, but for nearly 60 four-wheel drivers it took five days.
They arrived in Bright last Friday in vehicles muddy but largely unscathed, having taken some of the high country’s most rugged mountain tracks to raise around $180,000 for a children’s cancer charity.
Organised by Camp Quality, ‘the FUNx4’ took them through Dargo, Wonnangatta, along Blue Rag Range Track, Billy Goat Bluff and other mountainous roads.
Mark Sagona, member of ‘Team NFI’, said the driving gradually became more difficult as they travelled to Bright, but the weather was brilliant, with only one night of drizzle.
He said they had camped for three nights then spent their last night in Dargo.
“It’s been an adventure,” he said.
“It’s been a terrific drive, it’s well-organised.”
The four-wheel drives largely managed the challenging terrain, he said, with only a few parts falling off
“A few knocks and those sorts of things, which is to be expected going over such rough terrain,” he said.
“A little bit of my bumper bar came off.”
Mr Sagona has driven all five FUNx4 treks and has been involved in many other Camp Quality events to raise money to support children impacted by cancer.
“Give them a better life and bit of fun, that’s what drives most of us,” he said.
He said Camp Quality’s EsCarpade, a similar two-wheel drive event, will also visit Bright in October.
The drive will start in Canberra on October 19, drive to Echuca and then Geelong, passing through many towns in between.
HUME Riverina Community Legal Service is calling on the Federal Government to address the national funding crisis affecting the community legal sector and invest in justice for regional communities.
“We partner with health, education and community service organisations across North East Victoria and the Southern Riverina of New South Wales to provide legal assistance to people experiencing disadvantage, and barriers to justice,” said Hume Riverina Community Legal Service manager and principal lawyer Sarah Rodgers.
“In 2022-23 we assisted over 1300 clients experiencing intersecting disadvantage who would not otherwise have been able to access legal assistance.
“Nationally, the sector assisted 179,000 people to manage everyday legal problems with their housing, employment, health, finances, and personal safety, and to better understand and exercise their legal rights.”
Community legal centres play a critical role in providing access to justice through the provision of legal assistance to clients, community education, and law reform advocacy where unfair laws exist.
Chronic underfunding and inflationary pressures combined with inadequate indexation, and a lack of long-term funding security, are putting at risk the community legal sector’s unique service model and contribution to increasing individual and community wellbeing.
Funding uncertainty and shortages, coupled with overwhelming demand are forcing centres to turn away people in need.
The Community Legal Centres Australia (CLCA) annual State of the Sector Report stated more than 350,000 people were turned away from community legal centres in 2022-23.
“Hume Riverina Community Legal Centre turned away almost as many people seeking legal assistance as we were able to help,” said Ms Rodgers.
“We have called on the Commonwealth Government to increase funding for the community legal sector by at least $125 million in the 2024 Federal Budget, and a commitment to long-term funding security for the sector.
“Access to justice is essential to the wellbeing of individuals and communities and should be based on need, not postcode or the size of your bank balance.”
THE 14th edition of the challenging Alpe de Buffalo junior road race took place last weekend.
Sponsored by Wilson Asset Management, this junior tour has a reputation for being the toughest in Australia.
137 competitors, aged 8-16 years, gathered in Pioneer Park Bright on a crisp autumn Saturday for stage one of the three-stage event.
Alpine Cycling Club (ACC) had a record 13 club members racing (seven of which were female) in the event against entrants from many other Victorian clubs, plus a large number of riders coming from NSW, ACT, SA and Tasmania, making the competition a truly national affair.
In hotly-contested Criterium bunch racing, riders lapped the difficult course for up to 15 laps, with the
under 17’s averaging almost 40km/h.
Local rider Luis Slotegraaf finished 2nd in the under-11 boys and Davina Hill claimed the bronze in the under-11 girls.
Stage 2 saw riders move to the foothills of Mount Buffalo for the Individual time trial.
With the sun blazing the alpine riders started to shine.
Luis and Davina both came 2nd, while the brother and sister duo of Lachlan and Scarlett Stewart finished 1st and 2nd respectively in the under-17 and under-13 races.
With speeds of 80km/h hit by some riders this was not for the faint hearted.
As the sun rose on Sunday morning so did the riders as they tackled the epic 24km up Mount Buffalo to Dingo Dell.
The State Hill Climb Championship, which has
run for over 3 decades, was up for grabs and every rider gave it their all to conquer the climb.
Luis was able to claim the gold, while Davina secured silver and Lachlan took bronze in their respective categories.
The general classification competition, which sees riders combined time over all three stages, resulted in Lachlan and Luis finishing 2nd and Davina 3rd.
A big thanks to all the volunteers and supporters that continue to make this a truly special event.
A large group of ‘Shedders’ gathered to celebrate the occasion, enjoying the themed cake, which was a book of poetry made by Elene Wood.
Irvin is a bush poet, so it was fitting that he recited three of his poems at the luncheon.
Irvin composes a Shed Poem annually that he reads out at the Christmas Luncheon.
He likes tinkering with wood, making many saleable items that are displayed on his cart on shed opening days.
Irvin has been on the shed’s committee for nine years, recently becoming the editor of the shed’s newsletter ‘Shed Torque’.
“A very popular top bloke” is how shed member Paul L’ Huillier described Irvin.
THE arrangements for ANZAC Day in Mount Beauty are as follows:
Early Morning Service commences at 7am in Bicentennial Park, Lakeside Avenue.
Commemoration Service 11am at the Mount Beauty Cenotaph, assembly point for the march at the corner of Hollonds Street and Park Street at 10:30am.
Official guests will be Lieutenant D’Addario from the Bandiana Barracks and Alpine Shire councillor Tony Keeble.
On completion of the service ANZAC Day activities, refreshments and a barbecue will be held in the garden at Mountain
Monk Brewery, 1 Lakeside Avenue, Mount Beauty.
THE next very popular Community Lunch at the Mount Beauty Neighbourhood Centre will be held on May 14, you need to book now.
Cost is $10 for a two-course lunch, call the centre on 03 5754 1166.
ON Alpine FM Brunch program this morning my guest will be Dr
Helen Haines, Federal member for Indi, at 9:30am. At 10:10am author Mary-Anne O’Connor will be speaking about her latest book ‘At the Going Down of the Sun‘, a fitting topic leading up to ANZAC Day. Station manager Michael Ahearn will be back to join me on the Talking Heads session at 11:10am. Don’t miss the very popular ‘Pale Blue Dot’ program at 3pm with Ian Cohn and Keith and Mary Pike.
unanimously approved over $50,000 of extra funding for the Porepunkah Transfer Station upgrade due to unforeseen costs at their meeting earlier this month.
Councillors were recommended to approve a contract variation of $109,975 with Naubro Kerb Pty Ltd because of extra works encountered during construction, placing them $50,457 over budget.
According to council, work variations include waste encountered during pier construction requiring alterations to construction methods, and a requirement to manufacture and install new handrails to meet building code and safety requirements.
The works are one of three transfer station upgrades across the shire funded by a $335,630 grant from the Department of Environment, Energy and Climate Action (DEECA).
According to council, the completion of upgrades in Myrtleford and Mount Beauty left over $280,000 of grant funding, more than enough for the initial $223,676 contract awarded in September 2023.
However, due to the contract variation council was recommended to make up the shortfall from council funds.
Director of assets Alan Rees said the funds would come from council’s Waste Reserve, consisting of money set aside by council to manage shire landfills.
Councillors Simon Kelley, Tony Keeble and Kelli Prime were absent from the meeting.
AT each commemoration of ANZAC Day we also have the opportunity to acknowledge those who had left homes elsewhere to serve their country during World War I, but who eventually came to this community as ‘Soldier Settlers’ seeking a new life.
Through the Closer Settlement Board, the Myrtleford district provided allotments on which to farm following the subdivision of the old estates at Barwidgee (Mudgegonga), Happy Valley, and also Merriang and Whorouly Estates further to the west.
Under the Discharged Soldier Settlement Act, 1917 ballots and interviews were held with soldiers by members of the Land Purchase Board.
Robert Hunter
One of these soldier settlers was Private Robert Hunter. He does not appear as an enlistment on the Myrtleford War Memorial.
Hailing from Glasgow, Scotland he had migrated to Australia from Ireland in 1906.
He had enlisted in the AIF at Swan Hill on July 26 1915, becoming a member of 29th Infantry Battalion. He married wife Eva at Yarraville in December and embarked from Melbourne for the Western Front on the ‘Anchises’ on March 14, 1916.
At Pozieres on August 4, 1916 Robert was wounded by an exploding shell, suffering shrapnel wounds and shell shock.
His 46th Battalion had been assigned water and munitions carrying duties for the 23rd Battalion which had been attacking enemy trenches on Pozieres Ridge.
Hospitalisation in England followed and on February 13, 1917 he returned to Australia.
In March 1919 he was successful in obtaining farming allotment 11A of 170 acres in the ‘Barwidgee Soldier Settlement’, which extended from Mudgegonga to Happy Valley.
Robert and Eva arrived at Happy Valley with three children in 1921 and four more were to be born there.
The nearby Happy Valley Estate State School was available to attend.
In common with other settlers, the challenges of dry weather, rabbits, St John’s Wort and lack of fertilizer created great difficulty.
Then there was the issue of finances and debt, including repayment of a lease of 1472 pounds to the Land Board and payments for livestock, equipment, building materials and supplies bought locally.
There was also the issue of Robert’s ongoing tremors and flashbacks from the war.
Of the 46 settler allotments sold to soldiers on the Barwidgee Settlement, only eight would continue long term occupancy.
Like many settlers, Robert eventually lost his ‘Battle for The Farm’ and relinquished his holding in 1929, moved to
Wangaratta and became an AMP insurance agent.
He then moved to Benalla, where he farmed with assistance of family members on 385 acres seven kilometres from town, until 1952.
The last four children of 12 had been born in the 1930s at Benalla and Robert and Eva shifted to Albury where he died in 1963.
Thirty years on from the challenges of soldier settlement, on ANZAC Day, 1954 Memorial Gates were dedicated during the Myrtleford Centenary at the war memorial precinct, the pillars listing the 10 local men who lost their lives serving in World War II.
Many served, in fact the ‘Roll of Honour’ for the three armed services from all corners of the Myrtleford district listed 150 on the front page of the Myrtleford Times on June 24, 1942.
Subsequently, a Memorial Clock was erected to collectively commemorate service in the Korean War, the Malayan Emergency, the Indonesian Confrontation and in Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as peacekeeping ventures in Cyprus, the Solomon Islands, Bougainville, East Timor, Somalia and the Sudan.
This clock was erected on December 5, 2012.
Walter James Ellen
Flight Sergeant Walter J Ellen was one of an air crew of seven who perished when their Beaufort Bomber lost engine power near Bairnsdale, Victoria enroute to East Sale Airbase at 4pm on December 6, 1944.
They had been returning from operations in New Guinea, flying via Cairns to Victoria.
Wally Ellen, aged 20, had grown up in the district, the Myrtleford Times recording him “as the only son of Mrs B R Jennings and the late Mr M Ellen”.
“He enlisted in the RAAF about 18 months ago…… He had been a herd tester, at which he was proving adept.”
The town flag and ‘Lest We Forget’ pennants were flown at half-mast throughout Sunday, December 10 and Walter Ellen was buried with full RAAF honours
near Bairnsdale on the following day.
The newspaper reported that “Mr and Mrs Jennings, Miss Madge Ellen, Mrs W Currie and Mr Alf Richardson travelled to the funeral, where amongst the floral tributes were those from the 3SR Friendship Club and the Myrtleford Fire Brigade”.
Geoffrey Douglas Mummery
Geoffrey Mummery was one of three sons and two daughters raised by parents Walter (Jim) and Lillian Mummery at their farm at Merriang.
During World War II two sons, Harold James and Geoffrey Douglas, enlisted in the RAAF.
Geoffrey had been employed at the local State Savings Bank and was an all-round sportsman.
He enlisted on September 16, 1942 and before leaving for England, he returned home on leave for a few days in March and May 1943.
He was a Warrant Officer and wireless operator.
On March 14, 1945 the Myrtleford Times reported that “WO Geoffrey Mummery had been posted as missing from an air operation over Germany”.
As part of Bomber Command, his air crew was on a mission to bomb a synthetic oil refinery in a suburb of Hamburg on March 7, 1945 when their Lancaster was shot down by an enemy nightfighter at 10:15pm.
The front fuselage had been attacked, killing five crew members, including Goffrey Mummery. It was his 25th operational sortie.
Crew members were buried initially at Elsdorf and then at a British Military Cemetery at Soltau.
Back home, the Myrtleford Post Office advised the RAAF of a telegram delivered to the family at 10am on Sunday, March 16, 1945 of the loss of Geoffrey.
Geoffrey Street, Myrtleford is named in honour of his sacrifice.
Lest We Forget
ANZAC Day is set to to pull large crowds across the Alpine Shire this year with local RSL branches reporting a rise in support for the annual event.
Bright RSL sub branch president Philip Keeghan invited all to attend and pay their respects.
“The events of the day are all inclusive, including the post-dawn service breakfast and the lunch,” he said.
“It’s a special day and more people are starting to respect and pay homage to the fallen, as well as younger generations who we’re doing
a lot of work with through Bright P-12.
“Many are realising that their grandparents and great uncles were killed and there were lots of sacrifices made.”
Bright RSL will hold their dawn service at the cenotaph at 5:50am before heading back to the RSL for breakfast.
“Then from 10:45am we’ll march from the top of Ireland Street to the cenotaph with two WWII veterans; Jack Tuckers aged 97 and Max Hayes aged 91, joining us in vehicles supplied by the preservation society,” Mr Keeghan said. “The main service will
commence around 11am with a Bandiana party joining us, a guest speaker and Jeremy O’Sullivan on the bugle.
“There will be a barbecue lunch after the 11am service barbecue back at the RSL, we invite everyone to come and look around the RSL and our memorabilia.”
Myrtleford RSL sub branch president Bryan Meehan said he’s expecting a huge crowd at this year’s service.
“It’s looking to be a great day, with around 30 caravan enthusiasts currently staying in town and wanting to be involved in events,” he said.
The Myrtleford dawn service will commence at 6am at the cenotaph.
Immediately after the dawn service a gunfire breakfast will be held around 6:30am at the Buffalo Hotel for a gold coin donation.
Mr Meehan said anyone wishing to march before the 11am service must be at the Myrtleford RSL no later than 10:30am.
“The march will head off around 10:50 and finish at the cenotaph, where they will be told to stand easy or take a seat for the 11am service,” he said.
The Myrtleford service
will finish around 12pm, followed by the unveiling of the RSL’s new peacekeeping mosaic at 12:10pm.
The RSL doors will open for a $5 lunch at 12:30pm, and at 1:30pm a traditional session of two-up will commence in the forecourt.
“We’re expecting to be quite busy, which is wonderful,” Mr Meehan said.
“It’s just growing; the the general feel is people wanting to remember their grandfathers and even later wars where Australia has played a very active role.
“As a result, the younger generation coming through are keen to be involved.”
THE first of Alpine Health’s Positive Ageing Expos took place at the Myrtleford Senior Citizen’s Centre last Tuesday, with around 35 attendees listening to a series of presentations on services available as people age.
Alpine Health chief executive officer Nick Shaw began proceedings before four presentations from Alpine Health professionals, including acting director of healthy communities
POSITIVE AGEING:
The presentations covered a range of topics, such as home care packages, residential aged care, Alpine Leisure Group and advanced aged care planning.
Mr Burgess gave valuable insights into the Alpine Health’s commitment to enhancing the wellbeing of older adults.
Ms Tuohey shared expertise on initiatives promoting healthy living and Ms Gardam highlighted support services for empowering older adults to live fulfilling lives.
Finally, acting director of clinical operations in Myrtleford and infection control officer Kelly Barton emphasised the importance of
REPAIR works on 13 identified sites along the Bogong High Plains Road have been confirmed by the Department of Transport and Planning following community concerns regarding damage to transport routes to and from the landslip site.
Alpine Shire Council’s January meeting saw Kiewa Valley resident Mary Pike raise the issue, asking councillors if they would be paying for the damage.
“I just wanted to check with the shire if they were able to ensure the Victorian Government would reinstate roads in
Kiewa Valley being wrecked by the trucks that are clearing the landslip,” she said.
A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said contractors will carry out works on the 13 identified sites along Bogong-High Plains Road in the coming weeks.
“Once these works are complete, DTP will continue regular inspections along the road, as it outlined in our Road Management Plan,” the spokesperson said.
Work at these sites is expected to commence from mid-April and is due for completion by mid-May, weather permitting. Separately, landslip clear-
ing works are continuing on Bogong High Plains Road near Bogong Village, delivered by Department of Transport and Planning and Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV).
MRPV will undertake resurfacing at both landslip locations in preparations for reopening two lanes ahead of the winter ski season.
MRPV program director
Dipal Sorathia said they are also working with Alpine Shire Council to ensure that any damage to Embankment Drive, which is used as a primary haulage route to transport material from the landslip site to Wermatong Pit, is rectified.
access to quality residential aged care and the need for COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations as winter returns.
The next expo will be held in Bright on May 2 at the Bright Uniting Church, 10-11:30am.
Another will be held in Mount Beauty on May 16 at the Lakeside Community Centre, also from 1011:30am.
WITH just a few days until this year’s Bright P-12 Fun Run it’s time to warm up your muscles and prepare to enjoy the spectacular autumn views along the local trails.
The event began in 2011 and, after a three year hiatus, made its comeback last year with a hugely successful community feel, according to Bright P-12 Fun Run committee member Shanna Gray.
Ms Gray said the event remains the same as last year, before changes come with Mystic Park trail upgrade works.
“We’re still running the three course lengths; 3km, 8km and 18km along the same courses, as its the last year we can do that and it was easier for us to manage getting it up and running,” she said.
“It will kick off at 7am from our Bright P-12 campus and we’ll have coffee, food, face painting and more outdoor activities for the kids.
“So far we’ve got a couple hundred registrations for entry and, historically, that number doubles in the week leading up to the event so we’re hoping to see even more people get involved and it’s looking like a busy event this year which is great.
“Last year we held it over grand final weekend and during school holidays so naturally there were less people around, but we still saw 300 registrations which is a great turnout.
“We’ve also heard from the guys checking our trails that the views are spectacular with the autumn leaves already on show.
“We’re just trying to encourage locals to be active with their children and embracing the school community build after COVID.
“We’ve got amazing local business sponsors and are building a community with the school at the heart of it.”
Those interested can also enter on the day with registrations open 30 minutes prior to each race start time.
Organisers are highly encouraging participants to arrive early enough to collect your bib, especially with high registration numbers expected.
The Bright P-12 Fun Run will be held this Saturday, April 27.
For more information, go to https://www. brightfunrun.com.au/.
How long have you lived in Bright?
About a month.
What do you do for a living?
I work in hospitality, at a cafe.
What are your hobbies or interests?
I like reading and writing, swimming, pondering, exploring, fossicking, playing, observing, collaging and creating at the moment.
What do you like about the area?
I like the way it feels. I like the trees, and the mountains are pretty cool. I like it when there’s not many people in town.
I’ve met some really nice people. I feel like it collects quite like-minded people, and it’s similar to a little town that I live in back in Western Australia.
Where would you take
visitors to showcase the area?
I haven’t taken myself very far yet because I haven’t had many days off.
We did have a visitor come up because we lived in Tassie over the summer, and she came and visited us on Saturday, Sunday and we took her up to Mount Hotham.
We’d never been there before, so that drive was pretty crazy.
I’d also like to go to Mount Beauty and Ladies Bath Falls, just park the car somewhere and walk and explore.
Is there anything you would change about the area?
Maybe the drinking water. I’ve predominantly drunk rainwater my whole life so it’s been a bit of a change drinking town water again.
I feel that everywhere
that you go at the moment, Airbnb is a really big thing, so people working and trying to live in town are restricted with their rentals.
The prices are really big; you have to work an insane amount to be able to afford rent if you find a nice enough spot.
Airbnbs are just crazy, same as my little town back home.
They just had a massive protest about Airbnbs because the people that keep the town functioning didn’t have anywhere to live – they’re living in the caravan park. I also know it brings money into the town, but to keep the town going, you need the people who keep the places running.
Do you have any ambitions for the future?
Keep exploring, growing and being a better human.
How long have you been in the area?
I was born in the Tawonga Hospital in 1953 as there was no hospital in Mount Beauty at that time. I left Mount Beauty when I was 17 years old, and later retired here when I was 60 .
What do you like about the area?
I love Mount Beauty because it is peaceful, the people here are friendly and the countryside is beautiful. There are lots of great walks to enjoy, and there are nice relaxing spots to sit by the river.
Would you like to see any changes or additions?
Yes, I would like to see more shops, more accommodation for senior people, more exercising groups like Zumba classes, an indoor heated pool or undercover, and more transportation for the elderly.
What are your hobbies and interests?
My hobbies are sewing, gardening, swimming and crafting. I also enjoy voluntary driving for the community.
Where would you take visitors to showcase the area?
Pebble Beach, Fainter Falls, the Gorge Walk and the lookouts.
How long have you lived in Myrtleford?
Fourteen years.
What do you do for a living?
I’m a mechanic - I work for the hop farm. I’ve been there six years.
What are your hobbies or interests?
Boats, bikes, cars, anything with a motor basically.
What do you like about the area?
Everything. We came here as visitors and we leased a site and built a caravan and annex in the park. When they were logging reform hill, when it was a pine plantation, we could see it from the park. So I took my five-year-old son for a walk, and that’s how I found this property.
Where would you take visitors to showcase the area?
Normally I go up the top of the ridge line so people can see over the whole valley. It’s a pretty stunning view up there. You can see over the whole town, the valley, all the way to the mountains. It’s breathtaking.
Is there anything you would change about the area?
No. It’s really a no-brainer. It’s a beautiful place, good people, good place to work, good place to live, good place to raise a family. It’s perfect.
Do you have any ambitions for the future?
I’m in my 60s, so I’m supposed to retire in the next six-seven years. My only ambition is with my race car. I’ve already won a few titles with the car; back-to-back ones I’ve won. I want to make it a hat trick this year.
LAST month the Probus Club of Bright held its 32nd annual general meeting (AGM) and elected its new committee for the 2024-25 probus year.
Only Ron Sibley, 94, retired Bright Shire engineer and sole remaining foundation member, can boast of having attended every one of those AGMs.
For those who are not aware, Probus Clubs are non-fundraising and non-service clubs that operate for the benefit of providing ‘Fun, Friendship and Fellowship’ for their members.
They are for retirees and semi-retirees and open to both men and women.
Meetings are usually held monthly at 10am on the 4th Wednesday of each month at the Bright Bowls Club, and are highlighted by topical and interesting guest speakers.
Visitors and prospective members are assured of a warm welcome at these meetings where formalities are kept to a minimum.
Members frequently enjoy casual lunches, theatre outings and other activities together.
For further information contact John Simpson, president, on 5750 1811.
LA Fiera Festival, an annual celebration of Italian culture, returns to Myrtleford for its 15th year, promising a weekend filled with food, wine, entertainment, and cultural experiences.
The festival, set in the picturesque Alpine Valley town of Myrtleford, will take place on May 17-19, with La Festa and Il Mercato as the main events over the weekend.
The town’s piazza, reminiscent of those found in Italy, takes centre stage as the setting for both La Festa and Il Mercato.
This central gathering place adds to the authentic Italian atmosphere, creating a vibrant and welcoming space for over 5000 festivalgoers over the weekend.
La Festa, held on Saturday is a celebration of all things Italian for all ages, featuring Italian cuisine, wines, and entertainment.
Local Circoli ‘clubs’ showcase the diverse and delicious cuisines from their region in Italy, from the north to the south.
Visitors can indulge in a variety of Italian dishes,
enjoy Alpine Valleys wines, and immerse themselves in the Italian spirit.
Entertainment at La Festa will be bigger and better with a full program catering to all ages.
From the main stage lineup, roaming entertainers to the Bendigo Bank’s Children Hub in Jubilee Park, ensures that everyone will be laughing, singing and dancing.
The festival continues Sunday with Il Mercato, hosted by the Myrtleford Farmers Market.
This day invites everyone
to come and enjoy the regions local seasonal offerings with a distinct Italian feel.
Il Mercato promises a shopping opportunity to celebrate Italian flavours through fresh produce, masterclasses to artisanal goods, while enjoying Italian specialities and entertainment.
In addition to La Festa and Il Mercato, the weekend is filled with a range of events and activities.
Locals and visitors can look forward to an Italian movie night, an intimate dinner with renowned chef
Patrizia Simone, Mangiare with the Michelini lunches, the Old School Museum Italian exhibit, Mass and Procession for St Anthony of Padua, Soccer match competing for La Fiera Cup and much more.
La Fiera Festival pays homage to the Italian migration dating back to 1920’s and its influence on the local history and economic growth.
Through events and activities, the festival aims to showcase the Italian culture and how it has become part
of the community of Myrtleford.
“We are thrilled to celebrate the 15th anniversary of La Fiera Festival and to continue sharing the rich heritage of Italian culture with the community of Myrtleford and beyond,” festival convenor John ReynoldSmith said.
“As always, this year’s festival promises a line-up of events, that will appeal to everyone, from food and wine enthusiasts to history buffs and families looking for a weekend of fun.”
4 2 2
The master bedroom also features a new ensuite.
Enjoy the convenience of a purposespace for remote work or study with a lovely bay window outlook and external access perfect for client meetings. This large room could also be easily converted into a fourth bedroom.
The kitchen showcases Blackwood cabinetry and is equipped with quality appliances and a large pantry, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. This space connects to the open-plan through to the large family room. Through sliding doors there is an additional formal lounge room with a feature combustion wood heater, providing ample spaces for family living and entertaining. There are also a number of split systems throughout the home to provide convenient climate control yearround.
An 8kw solar system covers a large portion of electricity usage, supplemented by solar hot water, ensuring energy
Step outside to a paved, all-weather entertaining area overlooking the inground pool and established gardens, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor gatherings and relaxation.
Additional features include two large machinery sheds, a double carport, plus an insulated and air-conditioned bungalow/games room with an additional storage room.
A small cluster of wine grape vines adds a touch of charm and potential for hobby winemaking.
Enjoy the serenity of country living while being just a short distance from essential amenities and recreational attractions.
Phone |
Price |
Location |
Garry Nash & Co.
5722 2663
$995,000
461 Markwood Everton Road, Everton Agent |
The property is only a 20-minute drive to Wangaratta or Myrtleford, and close to Don’t miss the opportunity to make this family oasis your own. Contact Garry Nash & Co today to arrange a private inspection and begin your journey towards a relaxed country lifestyle.
7 Belle Avenue, Wangaratta
For sale $559,000
Spacious family home with in-ground pool
241 Warby Range Road, Glenrowan
For sale $675,000
Affordable out-of-town living
• 1-acre (approx.). Hamilton Park Estate.
• Sandstone cladding. Modern kitchen.
• Downstairs bathroom. Upstairs ensuite.
• Large shed with toilet. Good fencing.
• Raw water supply + huge rainwater tank.
11 Higgins Street, Wangaratta
• Fully renovated bathroom. Modern kitchen.
• 2 separate living spaces.
• Ducted heating and cooling. Wood heater.
• Easy maintenance on 566m (approx.)
Wangaratta 2 Appin Street 740m22 11
Renovate or Develop For Sale $385,000 View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19191762
Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta
Danial Siperki
M 0400 027 473
Harcourts Wangaratta
Wangaratta 159 Burke Street 842m23 12
Perfect Start
For Sale $420,000
View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L19194021
Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta
Danial Siperki
M 0400 027 473
Harcourts Wangaratta
Wangaratta 38 Blake Street 697m23 22
West End Family Home
For Sale $499,000
View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L27263229
Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta
Danial Siperki
M 0400 027 473
Harcourts Wangaratta
Danial Siperki M 0400 027
Boorhaman East 712 Boorhaman East Rd
59Ac3 26
Country Lifestyle Opportunity in Boorhaman East
For Sale $665,000
View by appointment, wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L127089095
Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta
Hugh Amery M 0487 777 311
Harcourts Wangaratta
By CHRIS RILEY, Marque Motoring
THE Nissan Navara PRO4X was replaced by the PRO4X Warrior which in turn has recently been replaced by the much-hyped PRO-4X Warrior by Premcar.
Premcar had a hand in some or all of them, but here’s the thing . . . the Pro-4X is back.
Take your eye off the ball and look what happens.
What’s more, there’s an SL Warrior by Premcar now too.
Who will be top dog?
STYLING
To give Navara and the PRO-4X some context, there’s a new one due soon.
That’s a good thing because the current Navara has been with us for 10 years and despite a makeover, it is starting to show.
They say however that the last of the line is always the best one because by then they’ve managed to iron out the bugs.
That makes the only real decision here whether to get the PRO-4X or the PRO-4X Warrior by Premcar?
They might look similar, but they’re actually two very different vehicles.
PRO-4X is all about show, a flashy package designed with the city driver in mind.
Nissan describes it as a style package aimed at adventure lovers and travellers craving an escape from their daily routine.
The Warrior, as its name suggests, has been assembled to take on the elements, targeted at the driver who’s not afraid to get their car dirty and maybe scraped with some serious low-range action.
Prices for Pro-4X start from $63,955 for the manual or $66,921 for the auto; both fig-
ures driveaway. The Premcar version is $74,255 for the manual or $76,830 with an auto, over $10K more and that’s a huge difference.
Based on the entry grade SL comes only as an auto and is priced from $67,027.
The former darling ST-X is $55,945.
Interestingly, they’re all powered by the same 2.3-litre four cylinder turbo-diesel, some with single, some with twin turbos.
Our test vehicle was the PRO-4X automatic.
The latest version looks the goods, dressed in black, with red decoration and PRO-4X decals.
There’s black 17-inch alloys and all terrain Yokohama rubber, along with a black interlock grille, black sports bar, rear step for ease of access and a tailgate embossed with the Navara name.
The makeover includes privacy glass, together with black roof rails, door handles, door mirrors and side steps.
Inside there’s two-zone climate air, heated, part-leather, red-stitched, embroidered front seats with the PRO-4X logo and a power-adjust driver seat.
There’s also a fancy chrome transmission surround, rear air outlets, and of course that odd little sliding rear window that has been a part of the Navara experience for so long.
Standard features include push-button start, cruise control (but not adaptive cruise), quad LED headlights and LED tail lights, auto high beam, auto lights and wipers, auto dimming rear-view mirror, rear parking sensors, floor mats, tow bar and tub liner.
It appears a tonneau cover is optional although the test vehicle was supplied with one.
Spare is a full size steel wheel located out of the way under the rear.
The instrument cluster features old style analogue dials left and right, separated by a centre digital driver information screen with the ability to display a digital speedo.
PRO-4X is covered by a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with service intervals set at 12 months or 15,000km.
ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
In terms of grunt the twin turbo 2.3-litre four cylinder diesel puts out 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque, the latter from a low 1500 through to 2500 rpm.
These are good figures because torque is the stuff that provides low-end grunt, the same as a V8 and makes it more accessible.
The turbo-diesel comes with a choice of 6-speed manual or 7-speed auto transmissions.
The auto includes Navara’s Drive Mode Selector, with Sport, Off-Road, Tow and Normal modes.
SAFETY
Safety extends to seven airbags, including a driver’s knee bag, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking, Intelligent Driver Alertness, Lane Departure Warning, Intelligent Lane Intervention, Blind Spot Warning and an Intelligent Around View Monitor, including an offroad monitor, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Autonomous emergency braking (City and Interurban) is now standard on all variants, but does not detect pedestrians and cyclists.
At more than 5.3 metres in length and with a 12.5 metre
turning circle, Navara can be tricky to park.
Or it would be if not for rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera with guidelines and 360-degree overhead monitor to help.
Sides steps are fitted but getting in would be easier if the driver was provided with a grab handle like other occupants.
It would also be so much easier to find the ideal driving position if the steering wheel was reach-adjustable — which it is not.
On a more positive note the driver seat is power adjustable which helps to get it just right.
The back seats are large enough and comfortable enough to accommodate adults, but legroom is limited so we would not like to spend too much time back there on long haul trips.
They lift up to reveal extra storage.
Of note the child seat anchor points in this car feature cloth loops which are located on the top edge of the seat.
The idea is to pass the tether through the closest loop and then continue to the next one along where you attach the snap shackle.
Can’t say we’ve encountered this setup before and forewarned is forearmed because the loop may not be large enough to accommodate the tether buckle.
Ground clearance is a big factor when it comes to offroad ability.
PRO-4X offers what we regard as a rather per se 220mm — the bare minimum really.
This climbs to 260mm in the off-road focused Premcar model.
Wading depth for both is 600mm.
There’s a part-time dual range 4×4 and rear diff lock,
MODEL RANGE:
NISSAN NAVARA PRO-4X manual, $63,955
NISSAN NAVARA PRO-4X automatic, $66,921
NISSAN NAVARA SL WARRIOR by Premcar, auto only $67,027
NISSAN NAVARA PRO-4X WARRIOR BY PREMCAR manual, $74,255
NISSAN NAVARA PRO-4X WARRIOR BY PREMCAR auto, $76,830
NOTE: These prices are drive-away.
which means essentials are there, it’s just that we wouldn’t be tackling anything too extreme.
While a front bash plate is fitted, the part you can see under the bumper is plastic and easily damaged.
Suspension is double wishbone at the front and five-point, multi-link at the rear, as opposed to the old fashioned leaf springs offered by most utes.
A strengthened rear axle and additional load volume make the vehicle ready for work or play.
PRO-4X pulls strongly just off idle, but tends to run out of puff if you start to push hard.
The ride on the other hand is surprisingly supple, on well formed roads at least.
Once you hit the back roads it soon deteriorates, becoming brittle and unforgiving.
The steering is a bit vague, but it goes where you point without too much complaint.
Gear changes from the seven-speed box are smooth and timely.
Rather than thrash it PRO4X is at its best cruising in the left lane, where it purrs along, quiet and smooth and using little fuel for its size.
Working with the Vehicle Dynamic Control system (VDC) and ABS brakes, this system enables drivers to be more confident and feel secure when towing large payloads and driving through muddy terrain with less acceleration and brake operation.
Our test vehicle was fitted with Yokohama Geolandar allterrain rubber, which tends to be good in the dry but terrible on wet roads, so the rear end is apt to become unstable in twowheel drive aka. rear-wheel drive.
PRO-4X can tow a 3500kg braked load and payload of 1013kg (manual) or 1004kg (auto).
The new trailer sway control system helps the vehicle to maintain stability on the road when towing a trailer.
But a tonneau cover is optional and there is no 12 volt outlet in the tray for a fridge.
Fuel consumption for this model is a claimed 8.1L/100km from an 80-litre tank.
We were getting pretty close to that at 8.2L/100km after almost 800km.
In four-wheel drive mode, Navara activates its Active Brake Limited Slip Differential system (ABLS), which manages power delivery and wheel braking between the front and rear axles and between the left and right of the vehicle, depending on traction and speed.
THE LATEST VERSION: Looks the part, dressed in black, with red decoration and PRO-4X decals.
FOR GENUINE SALE, the chance to purchase the complete package when it comes to heading off on the trip of a lifetime! The package includes a 2010 Toyota GX V8 trayback ute with extended cabin and steel and canvas canopy over rear tray, the ute has done a genuine 51,200kms, it has been fitted out with over $30,000 in extras, reg (1MP2DP). The caravan is a 2016 Jayco Silverline Outback, 21’6” in length, the Silverline was the top of the range in that model, it is fitted with all of the quality appliances you would expect in a van of this quality, it is also fitted with a queen size electric slide out bed, it has travelled approx 6000kms, all on bitumen surfaces, the van comes with over $10,000 worth of extras, it is a must see to believe what is included in this package. Would possibly sell the ute and van seperately, $150,000 negotiable, must sell. Ph 0407 218 028.
IZUZU D-Max LSU 2021, auto, canopy, snorkel, bullbar, UHF, electric brakes, Anderson plug, black duck seat covers, full slide out floor, 80,000km, (BNE007), $55,990. Ph 0458 265 318.
> ADDITIONS
POLGARDI
CARAVANS
2019
Etta passed away peacefully April 13, 2024 surrounded by family. A life very well lived. Leaving behind 3 daughters Anna, Rita and Georgie. 3 son-in-laws, 8 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. In our hearts forever. FUNERAL
Family and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Service to celebrate the life of Etta Polgardi to be held at Kings Funerals, 130 Bellarine Hwy, Newcomb on Saturday, May 4, 2024 at 11am. Etta was privately cremated. In lieu of flowers, donations to Dementia Australia would be appreciated. Mason Park Funerals
P.
HOLDEN Vy Commordore 2003, car is mechanically A1 serviced and maintained regularly, very clean inside and out, no dints or scratched, always garaged, comes with HSV body kit and door plates, 295 289km, reg till Sep 2024 (1CT5VS), $6200 ono. Ph 0427 214 821.
2005 Izuzu Van (T0V227), manual, diesel, reg till Aug 2024, services regularly by Robinsons Trucks, in good condition, $15,000 ono. Ph 0439 030 062.
2005 Toyota Corolla Ascent Hatchback (TIZ667) May 15. 126,000km, manual, 17" alloy wheels, TRD upgrades, tinted windows, excellent condition $8000. Ph 0438 988 608.
UNDER 12
This year Jarred Smith and Andrew Smith have taken over the coaching role of the team
Byron Smith in his first game did a great job on the catcher’s position.
Rylan McCormack went two for two safe hits with the bat on debut.
Zac and Zara Gauld impressed with Zara having three safe hits and Zac getting one.
Charlie Smith gathered two hits for the day and played a great game on third base.
Cohen Guest-Smith led the way starting off in pitching position and throwing out two runners at first and once again smashed the ball going three safe hits from three at bats.
The Medding sisters were great again.
Yuna was in the game all day, catching well playing first base and then moving to shortstop position where she threw a runner out.
Porepunkah scored an impressive five runs in their final innings and held on for a one run win.
Final score Porepunkah 17 def Wodonga 16.
Any Porepunkah under 12 kids wanting to play training is Tuesday night 3.45pm - 4.45pm.
UNDER 15
Porepunkah Panthers 15s started their season with an away game against the Wodonga Warriors.
The team welcomed four new faces to the squad.
■ From back page The Bombers dominated from the opening minutes against the Wahgunyah Lions and never looked back in a comprehensive 38goal victory (65-27).
A handy nine-point buffer was reached after the first period of play and then DMB stepped up their offence and defence to another level to put the match beyond doubt at halftime with a huge lead in their favour.
Alysha de Koeyer (33 goals) and Paige Tuohey (26 goals) were a big presence in the attacking third.
In other senior results across the day, B and C grade netball had pleasing wins, while in reserves footy, DMB were defeated by 57 points.
The Bombers return to Mount Beauty this weekend and will come up against Beechworth this Saturday afternoon.
Wodonga started well obtaining 3 strike outs in the first innings.
The Panthers, with Paige Anders on the mound, responded by obtaining two strike outs and a clean pick up and put out for Ollie Brown to close the bottom of the first.
To start the second Innings Samara Mc Callum received a walk and after stealing the next base was driven home by a single to Ollie.
After scoring one run at the top of the 2nd, Wodonga returned fire with two runs of their own.
On settling, Paige obtained three more strike outs and closed out the second.
In the 3rd innings Violet Harrison, Zara Gould and Charlie Smith took some good cuts.
Wade Pronk came on to relieve for Porepunkah with runners on base with the left hander gaining some more experience in the middle.
The Panthers started the 4th innings strongly, Rookie Amelie Ferrito wearing one and then with good speed stealing second on the next pitch.
Then followed by a hard line drive triple to Ayla McCallum.
Paige put the ball in play to bat Ayla home and Eamon Thomson scored a walk before time was called.
Thanks to all players, coaches, scorers and parents for their efforts on the day.
Last year’s premiers the Panthers faced off against their final
rivals Wodonga Warriors with both teams fielding new players (rookies).
Panther Luca Bathhelmez starting off the innings by hitting the ball straight back over the pitcher’s head.
Mark Chambers, Lachlan Rosser and Sam Bourne all received walks and stole six bases between them and all scored on wild pitches. Porepunkah had four runs cross the home plate.
Liam Quinton took up the pitching duties for Porepunkah.
He walked three batters then settled in to strike out three batters to end the first inning with Warrior’s scoring three runs.
The second innings saw the Panthers score another four runs.
Lachlan Rosser and Mark Chambers both got on base, with Mark injuring his quaddie having to steal so many bases.
Rookie Devon Turner made some nice catches and also scored a run after being hit by a pitch.
Peter Alexander in his first match got on base twice and scored both times.
Kim Lawson also impressed in her first game with nice contact at both her at bats.
With the Panthers up 8- 6 the game was still up for grabs.
Panthers Peter, Mark and Luca all reaching first base and then Lachlan Rosser monstering a big three base hit to bring them home.
Wodonga managed to bring in three runs in their final.
Jayden Eastwood in his second
match for the day made two great outs in the final innings.
Final Score Porepunkah 12 def Wodonga 9.
B GRADE
The Panthers had a great start with a gritty hard fought win over seven innings against the Wodonga Warriors.
Safe hits to Ollie Chambers and Randy Skippen in the first innings helped drive four runs in for Panthers.
Wodonga responded with one run in their first innings.
The Panthers then managed another two runs, with Andrew Smiths massive three base hit being the highlight.
Wodonga responded with three runs in the third innings whilst keeping the Panthers scoreless, with Porepunkah leading 6 runs to 5.
Next innings Panther Hayden Williams blasted a three base hit bringing in two runs.
One of his three safe hits for the day.
The Panthers then managed to shut out Wodonga for a couple of innings and score themselves.
With the score 11-7 going into the last innings Panthers Dean Anders and Ollie Chambers brought in three runs.
Wodonga scored three runs before Panthers achieved a double play to end the day with Ethan Edwards catching a ball at centre field then throwing to second base.
Dean Anders threw 118 pitches
for Panthers for 79 strikes and 39 balls with 10 strikeouts and 5 batters hit.
Final score Porepunkah 14 def Wodonga 10.
The Panthers A grade now has some of the best 15-17 year old players ( just out of juniors) going around playing senior baseball in A and B grade.
The A grade game was a good one, with only one run separating the teams at the end but what caught everyone’s attention was the teenagers playing A grade.
Ollie Chambers (16 yrs) threw 78 pitchers for 32 strikes and struck out three batters.
Lachie Rosser (16 yrs) can play any position and led the batting stats for the day. Three at bats, two safe hits and a walk.
Ethan Edwards (17yrs) is a fast outfielder and can make the catches.
Luca Bathelmes (16 yrs) in his first game did not look out of place playing second base in the last innings getting two consecutive outs.
Hayden Williams (20) blasted two safe hits to be the other top batter.
Paul Meddings threw some spin off the mound and got himself two strikeouts.
Adam Rosser came in as closing pitcher with his son Lachie catching, with Rosco senior likely to be pitching next week.
Final score Wodonga 9 def Porepunkah 8.
SATURDAY, April 20 was the fourth and final round of the Club Championships at the Mount Beauty Golf Club.
The round was won by Trevor English with a net 68, Rick Biesboer managed a net 70, with three on net 71: Dave Browning, Wes Dowell and Alex Taylor.
Net 72 was achieved by Dave Etherton and Peter Partington.
The club kept the ball and the Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post Office, closest on the 9th was Peter Dilley, 17th was Taf Sullivan, and the money on the 18th was collected by Victor Selway.
With everyone’s best three of four rounds completed, the scores were in for the Men’s Club Championships.
Club Champion for 2024 is Rick Biesboer with a gross 229, narrowly defeating Victor Selway (231) and Roger Church (239).
B Grade Champion is Trevor English with his gross 257 from Ross Rynehart (264) and Stephen Short (274).
C Grade Champion is Michael Bartholomew with his gross 286 from Stuie Jelbart (296) and Fred Gerardson (301).
The 54 Hole Champion is Trevor English with net 203 from Peter Partington (210) and Rick Biesboer (211).
The back nine was played by
the men on Wednesday, April 17, which was won by Tony Campen with 23 points.
Runner-up was Ivan Mock (22 points) followed by Fred Gerardson (21) and Brian Henning (20).
NTP on the 17th was Tony Campen, while Roger Church was closest on the 18th.
The ladies played the back nine on Wednesday, April 17, with Jooyon Kang-Redmond successful with her 17 points from Gill Harrowfield with 16 points.
The rest of the ladies played on for 18 holes and were joined by visitor Chris Fitzgerald from Links Lady Bay GC, who took the NTP on the 18th (second shot).
The comp winner was Lynda Barter with 32 points on a countback from Carol Bartholomew and Ruth Rynehart with their 31 points.
On Saturday, April 20, Jooyon Kang-Redmond was again successful on the back nine with 20 points on a countback from Ute Svboda.
Jooyon also took the NTP (second shot) on the 18th.
The 18 hole comp on Saturday was won by Karen Etherton with 41 points from Carol Bartholomew and Ruth Rynehart with their 36 points apiece.
BEST: IMPERIALS: Will Prebble, Charlie Flynn, Parker Stamp, Jed Marek, Angus Schultz. TIGERS: Harvey Dodgshun, Jack Preston, Drew Winter, Mitchell Benton, Jacob Wickham, Joshua Knight. GOALS: IMPERIALS: Will Prebble 6, Max Startin 2, Harry Allen 1, Jed Marek 1, Kai McPhan 1, Angus Schultz 1, Marshall Semmens 1, Parker Stamp 1, Preston Stamp 1. TIGERS: Lucas Webb 2, Oliver Mullane 1.
CENTRALS:
Cooper Boman,
Jack
Connor Ormond,
GOALS: COLLEGE: Harrison Bowman 1, Cashen Monk 1, Kallam Pensak 1. CENTRALS: Reid McNamara 6, Connor Breheny 4, Charlie Curr 3, Cooper Boman 2, Hunter Fraser 2, Ryan Parsons 2, Henry Burke 1, Cohen Hazell 1, Kaiden
BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Adam Morgan, Oscar Benson, Jordyn Notarianni, Charlie Piazza, Bailey Robb, Taj Cooper. KANGAROOS: Will Graham, Jamie Scheier, Kade Jackson, Edward Clayton, Corey Marjanovic, Ruari Adamo. GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Bailey Robb 2, Taj Cooper 1, Liam McManus 1, Adam Morgan 1, Jordyn Notarianni 1. KANGAROOS: Will Graham 3, Ryley Downing 2, Sonny McCormack 2, Jamie Scheier 2, Edward Clayton 1, Billy Hiskins 1, Harvey Jacka 1, Archie Obrien 1. Mansfield 0.1 2.10 6.10 7.15.57
Junior Magpies 4.1 6.1 7.1 9.2.56
BEST: MANSFIELD: Hayden Desmond, Liam Smith, Andrew Friday, nick Taylor, Edwin Morphett, Jaxon McCormack. JUNIOR MAGPIES: Corey Petersen, William Petersen, Jackson Hewitt, Lachlan Suffield, Joel Comensoli, Riley Burrows. GOALS: MANSFIELD: Andrew Friday 3, Ethan Pigdon 2, James Benton 1, Samuel Kain 1. JUNIOR MAGPIES: Joel Comensoli 3, Callum Bott 2, Mossy Alker-Jones 1, Cooper Allan 1, Alex Cairncross 1, Hamish Ormond 1.
Harvey Allan. CENTRALS: Samuel Elkington, Archie Knobel, Liam Bennett, Milla Wallace, Angus Fraser, Ethan Cryer. GOALS: COLLEGE: Lenny Sims 5, Charlie O’Brien 2, Jay Guley 1, Luke O’Brien 1. CENTRALS: Liam Bennett 1, Ethan Cryer 1, Andrew Fraser 1, Angus Fraser 1, Milla Wallace 1. Mansfield Yellow
5.2.32
Black
BEST: MANSFIELD YELLOW: Zac Hotton, Isaac Crowe, Felix Smith, Lachlan Roberts, William Benton, Noah De Santis. BENALLA BLACK: Kobi Thwaites, Joshua Montgomery, Ben Wells, Hudson Blyss, Oliver Wardill, Hugh Ross. GOALS: MANSFIELD YELLOW: Oscar Pigdon 1, Mitch Rossiter 1, Mitch Storer 1. BENALLA BLACK: Oliver Wardill 2, Ryder Humphries 1, Joshua Montgomery 1, Hugh Ross 1. Mansfield Blue 2.6 5.10 9.11 13.12.90
Magpies
BEST: MANSFIELD BLUE: No best players have been selected. JUNIOR MAGPIES: No best players have been selected. GOALS: MANSFIELD BLUE: Regan Watts 4, Jay Kynnersley 3, Taj Kynnersley 2, Bodhi Killeen 1, Gus Robinson 1, Pichpanha Sorn 1, Logan Vanderkolk 1. MAGPIES: No goal scoreers have been selected.
Myrtleford 0.0
Kangaroos 4.9 11.13 14.17 22.22.154
BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Matthew Morgan, Max McMahon, Noah Harris, Jake Jennings, Orlando Hunkin, Tex Cartwright. KANGAROOS: No best players have been selected. GOALS: KANGAROOS: No goal scorers have been selected.
Bright
10.7 15.9 19.15.129 Benalla Red
BEST: BRIGHT: Cash Garratt, Brock Buckland, Harry West, Joe Brewster, Oscar Lewis, Harris Bruneau. BENALLA RED: Charlie Bowen, Xavier De Fazio, Noah Hogan, Harrison Skelton, Noah Cooney, Riley McCarthy. GOALS: BRIGHT: No goal scorers have been selected. BENALLA RED: No goal scorers have been selected.
MYRTLEFORD’S senior women’s soccer team is taking the positives out of Sunday’s narrow 1-2 loss to Wodonga Heart.
Savoy conceded two first half goals and fought hard to deny Heart a clean sheet, with Shae Justice finding the back of the net.
Co-coach Tom Scott said his side did have moments to equalise or even pull ahead, but couldn’t convert when they needed to.
“We definitely had our opportunities and there were moments in
the game where we could’ve capitalised on, but sometimes it just doesn’t go your way,” he said.
“We played pretty well across the ground throughout 80 minutes of the game, but as anyone would know when you play sport it only takes a couple of seconds to lose concentration and focus.
“That’s something we’ve been practising pretty heavily over the past couple of weeks, so it was frustrating to see that not be used, but it shows they were looking to go forward and press forward towards goal.
“It was a good learning curve
for the girls, and I think they’ll realise there is a lot more to it than just hoping, you’ve got to do the hard work.
“It’s good for our growth and development.”
Myrtleford Savoy currently sit eighth on the division one women’s ladder with a 2-3 record after round six, but there’s still plenty of games left to play in the season.
“We’re still missing three or four key players in our team who are out with injury, so if you add that extra strength, especially up forward, that creates a difference,
and that scoreline may not reflect the same as it did on the weekend next time we play Wodonga Heart later in the year,” Scott said.
“It’s great that it happens now at the start of the season and we can address it and learn from it, rather than it happening later on, if we’re chasing points coming towards finals.
“There were a lot of positives in the game, and I think the girls will reflect on that.”
Myrtleford Savoy head to Jelbart Park to take on Albury City this weekend.
THE Bright Tennis Club recently held their annual senior and junior Club Championships in perfect autumn conditions.
Three round robin divisions were contested in the junior competition on Saturday.
Cameron Wood was too strong for his opponents, winning all his matches in the boys 12 and under round robin format, with Oscar Ford coming in as runner-up.
The girls 15 and under division was strongly contested, and with two sets to play it could have been anyone’s title.
Rhylee Turner managed to win her last set and finished on 17 games, ahead of runner-up Ingrid Barnard on 15 games.
THE sun has been out and the weather warm, and golfers around the region have been taking advantage of the conditions to hit their local golf courses.
Myrtleford Golf Club
Saturday, April 20
Myrtleford Alpine Dairy Par AMCR 71
A Grade Winner: Ben Holmes (15) +3. A Grade Runner Up: Brad Carroll (7) 0.
Ball Winners: C Piazza 0, J Martin -1, D Clark -1.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Craig Piazza, 4th 2nd Shot: David Clark, 8th: Lawrence Miller, 14th: Brad Carroll, 16th: Brian Caldwell.
Matthews Cleaning Award: Paul Cowman -9. Raffle Winner: Craig Piazza.
Thursday, April 18
Myrtleford Alpine Dairy - Club Championships Round 1 - Stroke - AWCR 74
A Grade Winner: A Wilson (45) 113/68. A Grade Runner Up: Kerry Chapman (37) 109/72.
Ball Winners: Kerry Newton, Sandra Pitts. Putting Competition: Lizzie Orton.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Annie Wilson, 14th: Marnie Broz.
9 Hole Winner: Penny Dawkins (35) 19 pts. 9 Hole Runner Up: Suzette Kelly (43) 13 c/b.
Wednesday, April 17
Myrtleford Dairy Stableford AMCR 71
A Grade Winner: David Clark (12) 36 pts c/b. A Grade Runner Up: Jade Galvan (8) 36 pts.
Ball Winners: P Bradley Smith 35, G Veldman 34, P Vasey 34, J Martin 34.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Geoff Veldman, 4th 2nd Shot: David Clark, 8th: Jim Martin, 14th: Geoff Veldman, 16th: Peter Vasey.
Tuesday, April 16
Myrtleford Alpine Dairy - Stableford - AWCR 74
A Grade Winner: Angela
O’Shaughnessy (17) 36 c/b pts. A Grade Runner Up: Judy Bynon (20) 36 pts.
Ball Winners: Vicki Sims (10) 32pts.
Foodworks NTPs - 2/4th: Angela O’Shaughnessy, 14th: Kerry Newton, 16th: Kerry Newton.
9 Hole Winner: Jennifer Leita (54) 18pts. 9 Hole Runner Up: Pat McPherson (54) 17pts.
Bright Golf Club
Veterans, Monday, April 15, Stableford
Winners: Glen O’Connell (20) 34 points c/b Ian Brown (22) 34 points.
NTPs - 3rd: Graham Barrow, 6th: Gary Harbison, 11th: Graham Badrock, 16th: Mick Dunne.
congratulations go to Barnard who overcame the reigning club champion Chlebna 6-2
The mixed doubles competition was held the following day and tennis really was the winner on the day.
In the semi-finals, Chris Pangrazio and Jody Vlahandreas defeated Will Pearce and Michelle Yarwood 6-1 to progress to the final together against father-daughter combination Minter and Ingrid Barnard, who defeated Harry Pearce and Vic Kampe 6-1.
Ladies, Wednesday, April 17, Stableford
Winner: Suzette Heydon (34) 38 points.
NTPs - 3rd: Carol Burgess, 6th: Tina Cook, 11th: Robyn McGrath.
Men, Thursday, April 18, Stableford
Winners: Tony Chalwell (21) 44 points, Ray Borschman (19) 37 points.
NTPs – 3rd: Tony Chalwell, 6th: Tony Chalwell, 11th: Mick Dunne, 16th: John Forbes.
Men, Saturday, April 20, Stableford
Winners: Darren Wood (23) 40 points, Neville Blewitt (21) 38 points, Guy Packam (14) 37 points.
A strong field contested the men’s singles competition, with Justin Watson, Craig Thompson, Minter Barnard and David Chlebna making the finals.
In the semi-finals, Barnard de-
The boys 14 and under title was won by Elliott Ford who played a faultless competition, winning all his matches in the round robin format overcoming his practice partner and runner-up Audie Whyte.
feated Thompson 6-1 and Chlebna defeated Watson in a hard-fought match 6-3.
The long-anticipated re-match from 2021 was now realised with Chlebna v Barnard in the final.
It was a great spectacle with some wonderful tennis, but
In the final match of the day, the spectators were treated to some wonderful rallies with Vlahandreas and Pangrazio eventually coming away victors over Team Barnard 6-4.
The men’s and ladies’ doubles club championships is scheduled to be held on October 27 to kick off the new season.
NTPs - 3rd: Peter Lumb, 6th: Nick Aloizos, 11th: Chris Rowney, 16th: Darcy Beecher.
Ladies, Saturday, April 20, Stableford
Winner: Carol Burgess (13) 37 points.
NTPs - 3rd: Jen Younie, 6th: Jen Younie, 11th: Robyn McGrath, 16th: Carol Burgess.
HARD WORK PAID
FOR local footballer Tom Gray, the Bright Football Netball Club is the only team for him.
The 17-year-old Bright local recently made his senior debut with the club after 12 months of training and playing in the reserves.
“I played a little when I was younger, in the Under 12s and Under 14s but lost my passion for it and had a break,” he said.
“My older brother plays for seniors and he was a big part of me finding that passion again; it was really great to play alongside him
BY LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE LAndersonByrne@ nemedia.com.au
for my first seniors game.
“It was very nerve-racking I must admit but it was a lot of fun and it felt like the training had finally paid off
“I especially loved seeing Jack Dalbosco kick two goals.
“I love the sport itself but I wouldn’t be playing for any other team; it’s really about the people.”
Gray said community football meant you know all the people involved and
described his teammates as down to earth, nice people and great to play with.
“Even training is enjoyable and it’s such an inclusive culture, especially for younger players to come and have a go,” he said.
“My advice for younger kids wanting to have a go is play with people who will motivate you and learn alongside you, maybe bring a friend so you’re not the only one trying something new.
“The great thing about local sport is you meet so many people you don’t know and there’s a big
community feel to it.”
Coach Paul Harrison said Tom, or ‘The Pest’ as the team call him, played extremely well during his senior debut.
“Tom trained with us and played reserves for the majority of last year as well while still being eligible to play Under 17, he’s a terrific player,” he said.
“He had an excellent pre-season and set himself the goal of playing senior footy and any other year he would’ve played seniors round one but we’re sitting on top of the ladder
undefeated with a healthy list of senior reserves so it’s just unlucky he missed that.
“He’s doing the right things at training and played two really great games in reserves before he got his chance against Benalla.
“He played as half back, back pocket and found enough of the football himself but it was his disposals which were great.
“He didn’t waste any kicks or handballs, they hit their target every time so his ball use was brilliant and he didn’t look out of his depth at all.
“He attacked the
ball when he had the opportunity and didn’t let his opponent get away from him either.”
Harrison said Gray’s nickname, The Pest, came from his playing style and was in fact complimentary.
“He doesn’t leave his opponents alone or give them any time to get a kick in,” the coach said.
“For a young kid who was very quiet 12 months ago he’s come a long way in his self confidence and maturity and over that time he put in the hard work and got the results.”
GOALS: YARRAWONGA: Bailey Frauenfelder 3, Michael Gibbons 3, Perry Lewis-Smith 2, Leigh Williams 2, Matthew Casey 1, Ryan Einsporn 1, Will Robinson 1, Jordan Urquhart 1, Harrison Wheeler 1. WANGARATTA: Callum Moore 6, Fraser Holland-Dean 2, Will O’Keefe 2, Nick Richards 2, Liam Mcveigh 1, Michael Newton 1. BEST: YARRAWONGA: Harrison
Wheeler, Lach Howe, Bailey Frauenfelder, Perry Lewis-Smith, Ryan Einsporn, Cameron
Wilson. WANGARATTA: Will O’Keefe, Liam Mcveigh, Jackson Clarke, Aidan Tilley, Callum Moore, Alex Federico.
GOALS: LAVINGTON: Benjamin Ashley-Cooper 3, Tim Oosterhoff 3, Ryder Corrigan 1, Jack Driscoll 1, Shaun Driscoll 1, Samuel Hopper 1, Jake O’Brien 1, Charlie Sanson 1. MYRTLEFORD: Brody Ricardi 3, Ashton McPherson 2, Frazer Dale 1, Lachlan Miotto 1, Matthew Munro 1, Lachlan Murphy-Dale 1, Levi Young 1. BEST: LAVINGTON: Benjamin
Ashley-Cooper, William Glanvill, Jack Costello, Samuel Hopper, Christopher Annett, Jake O’Brien. MYRTLEFORD: Matthew Munro, Zac Pethybridge, Toby Cossor, Josh Muraca, Brody Ricardi, Bowen Calogero.
A GRADE Yarrawonga 37 def by Wangaratta 44
Lavington 34 def by Myrtleford 59
Wodonga 29 def by Corowa-Rutherglen 48
North Albury 45 def by Wodonga Raiders 48
Wangaratta Rovers 52 def Albury 43
B GRADE: Yarrawonga 28 def by Wangaratta 30; Lavington 40 def by Myrtleford 53; Wodonga 50 def Corowa-Rutherglen 30; North Albury 48 def Wodonga Raiders 40; Wangaratta Rovers 53 def Albury 40.
C GRADE: Yarrawonga 25 def by Wangaratta 40; Lavington 38 def by Myrtleford 59; Wodonga 54 def Corowa-Rutherglen 40; North Albury 39 def Wodonga Raiders 37; Wangaratta Rovers 36 def by Albury 48.
UNDER 17s: Yarrawonga 31 def by Wangaratta37; Lavington 23 def by Myrtleford 46; Wodonga 89 def Corowa-Rutherglen 19; North Albury 36 def by Wodonga Raiders 44; Wangaratta Rovers 72 def Albury 32.
UNDER 15s: Yarrawonga 46 def Wangaratta 39; Lavington 26 def by Myrtleford 57; Wodonga 77 def Corowa-Rutherglen 26; North Albury 28 def by Wodonga Raiders 61; Wangaratta Rovers 44 def Albury 42.
Thurs, April 25th Wod. Raiders vs Wodonga, Albury vs North Albury
Sat, April 27th Wangaratta vs Myrtleford
Sun, April 28th Corowa R’glen vs Yarrawonga
Sat, May 4th Lavington vs Wang Rovers
Yarrawonga 4.5.29 def by Wangaratta 10.12.72
BEST: YARRAWONGA: Jack Eales, Lucas Eales, Oliver Watson, Mitchell Parker, Zac Forge, Charlie Lappin.. WANGARATTA:
Zac O’Shannessy 2, Oscar Clelland 1, Cody Johnson 1. ALBURY: Lenny Koller 1, Jack McPartland 1. Lavington 17.16.118 def Myrtleford 3.4.22
BEST: LAVINGTON: Cooper Hall, Harry Dean, Harryson Barber, Riley Costello, Jack Phegan, Flynn Scott. MYRTLEFORD: Tai Miller, Fearghus Jones, Samuel Crisp, Blake Woodall, Harry Stripeikis, Ethan Edwards. GOALS: LAVINGTON: Cooper Hall 6, Flynn Scott 3, Harryson Barber 2, Riley Costello 2, Jack Powling 2, Noah Edmunds 1, Carson Way 1. MYRTLEFORD: Nicholas Hall 1, Jock Pascoe 1, Harry Stripeikis 1.
Wodonga 5.13.43 def Corowa R’glen 4.5.29
Nth Albury 4.13.37 def by Raiders 13.10.88
GOALS: WODONGA: Ethan Redcliffe 5, Jett Cassidy 3, Noah Bradshaw 2, Joshua Mathey 2, Thomas Johnson 1, Adam Jorgensen 1, Jack Mathey 1, Oscar Willding 1. COROWA
RUTHERGLEN: Sam Dunstan 5, Judd Kuschert 1, Christian Masson Moyle 1, Brady Morton 1, Tom Young 1. BEST: WODONGA: Joshua Mathey, Ethan Redcliffe, Noah Bradshaw, Jack O’sullivan, Thomas Johnson, Tom Miller. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: Ryan Eyers, Caleb Bertram, Brady Morton, Tom Forrest, Kade Kuschert, Nicholas Wright.
GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: Joshua Minogue 11, Joshua Murphy 6, Tim Broomhead 3, Ben Fulford 3, Nathan Dennis 2, Cody Gardiner 2, Julian Hayes 1, Jack Penny 1, Jack Reynolds 1, Harry Weaven 1. WODONGA RAIDERS: Way 4, Nick Bracher 1, Ned Conway 1, Cameron EllisYolmen 1, Archer Scammell 1, Darrean Wyatt 1. BEST: NORTH ALBURY: Joshua Minogue, Jack Penny, Flynn Gardiner, Foster Gardiner, Joshua Murphy, Archer Gardiner. WODONGA RAIDERS: Cameron Ellis-Yolmen, Mitchell Way, Justin Gordon, Harry Sweetman, Bradley St John, Ned Conway. NORTH ALBURY
GOALS: WANGARATTA ROVERS: Alexander Marklew 3, Elijah Amery 1, Alex McCarthy 1, Will McCarthy 1, Samuel Murray 1, Finn Osborne 1, Judd Schubert 1, Dylan Wilson 1. ALBURY: Fletcher Carroll 2, Jake Gaynor 2, Kolby Heiner-Hennessy 1, Jonathan Male 1, Mat Walker 1. BEST: WANGARATTA ROVERS: Jace McQuade, Shane Gaston, Lochie O’Brien, Will McCarthy, Jack Gerrish, Charles Ledger. ALBURY: Jacob Page, Hamish Gilmore, Jake Gaynor, Jackson Kelly, Isaac Muller, Charlie McGrath.
GOALS: BRIGHT: Declan Bren 6, Cooper Thomason 5, Luke Quirk 3, James Love 2, Max Rampling 2, Rodrigo Arguello 1, Nick Lebish 1, Mikka Paulsen 1. BEST: BRIGHT: Alexander
Dalbosco, Declan Bren, Michael Elliott, Max Rampling, Mikka Paulsen, Joe Gray. WHOROULY: Cameron Wood, Daniel Harris, Samuel Ferguson, Oliver Dixon, Darcy O’Shannessy, Matthew Vescio.
BONNIE
GRETA
GOALS: BONNIE DOON: Conor Heaslip 2, Luke Murray 2, Al Bennett 1, Luke Berriman 1, Will Foster 1, Campbell Smedley 1. GRETA: Frazer Judd 3, Cody Crawford 2, Tyler Arrowsmith 1, Joshua Bell 1, James McClounan 1, Brenton Newbold 1. BEST: BONNIE DOON: James Law, Matthew Hedin, Peter Cairns, Ari Croxford-Demasi, Beau Smith, Luke Murray. GRETA: Frazer Dent, Joshua Bell, Brenton Newbold, Paul Fruzynski, Lachlan Hadden, Tom Fursdon.
KING
*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.
A GRADE: Bright 28 def by Whorouly 48
Bonnie Doon 47 def by Greta 51 King Valley 31 def by Moyhu 38
Milawa 53 def Tarrawingee 33
North Wangaratta 44 def by Goorambat 46
B GRADE: Bright 36 def by Whorouly 54; Bonnie Doon 58 def Greta 28; King Valley vs Moyhu; Milawa 56 def Tarrawingee 36; North Wangaratta 38 def Goorambat 32
B RESERVE: Bright 34 def by Whorouly 52; Bonnie Doon 46 def Greta 31; King Valley vs Moyhu; Milawa 46 def Tarrawingee 26; North Wangaratta 47 def Goorambat 25
C GRADE: Bright 50 def Whorouly 34; Bonnie Doon 40
def Greta 27; King Valley 49 def Moyhu 29; Milawa 38 def
Tarrawingee 37; North Wangaratta 28 def by Goorambat 73
UNDER 15s: Bright 20 def by Whorouly 24; Bonnie Doon 29 def Greta 13; King Valley 16 def by Moyhu 29; Milawa 23 def
Tarrawingee 5; North Wangaratta 45 def Goorambat 4
Not all scores available at time of print
MOYHU vs BENALLA
TARRAWINGEE - BYE
GOALS: KING VALLEY: Anthony Ciancio 6, Jack Davies 2, Ben Bray 1, Charlie Davies 1, William Davies 1, Sam Evans 1, Oliver Willett 1. MOYHU: Harrison Grant 3, David McDonald 2, Ethan Rooney 2, Harrison Bell 1, Noah Campbell 1, Sam Phillips 1, Logan Reynolds 1, Darby West 1. BEST: KING VALLEY: Ben Bray, Connor Shanley, Sam Evans, Charlie Davies, Joshua Toy, Tom Davies. MOYHU: Ethan Rooney, Ryley Dalton, Harrison Grant, Harry Verdon, Matthew Thrum, David McDonald.
MILAWA
GOALS: MILAWA: Sebastian De Napoli 6, Braydon Kearns 3, Brady Bartlett 2, Nick Giggins 2, Jared Lea 2, Ricky Ahearn 1, Daniel Bihun 1, Ben Clarke 1, Matt Graham 1, Josh Roman 1, Jarryd Wallace 1. TARRAWINGEE: Austin Amery 1, Zeke Carruthers 1, Deacon Cleal 1, Will Creed 1, Sam Peters 1, Sam Piper 1. BEST: MILAWA: Kyle Collisson, Brady Bartlett, Braydon Kearns, Daniel Bihun, Tyler Dunn, Josh Roman. TARRAWINGEE: Dylan Adams, William Sharp, Sam Piper, Will Creed, Reiley Murtagh, Jarrod Everitt.
NTH WANGARATTA
GOORAMBAT
GOALS: NORTH WANGARATTA: Liam McDonell 3, Josh Nanson 2, Jhye Devine 1, Matthew Prestianni 1. GOORAMBAT: Duane Haebich 7, Jamie Dunne 3, Sully Malay 2, Travers Nolan 2, Lachlan Boyle 1, Rhys Goodley 1, Brady Purcell 1, Brayden Stepien 1, Rory Wapling 1.
BEST: NORTH WANGARATTA: Andrew Knights, Sean Gales, Daniel Williams, Kade Parkinson, Damien Bradley, Josh Nanson. GOORAMBAT: Benjamin Reaburn, Jamie Dunne, Lachlan Boyle, Travers Nolan, Dylan Beavis, Sully Malay.
Yarrawonga ...............6.1.37
Wangaratta................8.8.56
BEST: YARRAWONGA: Jess Koopman, Jack O’Dwyer, Lochie Forge, David O’Dwyer, Tyler Bonat, Jack Robinson.
WANGARATTA: Waitai Tua, Hunter Graham, Braeden Marjanovic, Lachlan Bray, Charlie Ross, Hugh Canning.
Wangaratta Rovers ....7.10.52
Albury .......................7.9.51
BEST: WANGARATTA ROVERS: Joel Smith, Sam Nolan, Sam Allen, Noah Amery, Riley Allan, Connor Crimmins. ALBURY: William Haberecht, Dominic Gibbons, William Blomeley, Oliver Hayes, Ty Quade, Charlie Summerfield.
Lavington .................8.10.58
Myrtleford .................4.9.33
BEST: LAVINGTON: Oscar Lyons, Ethan DePaoli, Jordan Weidemann, Will Liersch, Darcy Smith, Peter Flood. MYRTLEFORD: Addison Bedendo, Ned Turner, Tom Crisp, Nicholas Ferguson, Charlie Crisp, Rhys Grant. Wodonga ................12.22.94
Corowa Rutherglen ......1.3.9
BEST: WODONGA: Kade Brown, William Teunon, Jake Hodgkin, Rhys Venturoni, Aaron Reichman, Denis Mutsinzi. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: Clayton Munro, Jayke Nicholson, Edward Haynes, Benjamin Talarico, Bailey Minogue, Aaron Spencer.
North Albury.............9.12.66
Wodonga Raiders .......5.2.32
BEST: NORTH ALBURY: Darcey Cullen, Callum Fisher, Thomas Anderson, Mitchell Wadley, Cooper McIntosh. WODONGA RAIDERS: Myles Harding, Will McCarty, Wil Conway, Kieran Jones, Josh Perry, Ned Twycross.
A DOMINANT performance from Bright at home has helped the ladder leaders continue their unbeaten start to the season after four games.
In perfect conditions for football, the Mountain Men easily accounted for their closest rivals to win by 140 points – 21.14 (140) to 0.0 (0).
Capitalising on a fixture that has seen them play three home games in the first four rounds, Bright got the early jump on Whorouly with a 42-point quarter-time lead and it was only inaccuracy in front of goals that prevented the margin from blowing out further.
The Mountain Men used the wide expanses of Pioneer Park to their advantage to run all over the Lions and kicked seven goals in the second and third quarters to lift the margin well over 100 points with a quarter to go.
Whorouly’s defence stood up in the final term and conceded only one goal in the final 20 minutes of game time, but the damage had already been done.
The impenetrable back six, led by vice-captain Michael Elliott, kept the Lions
scoreless and barely let the ball inside their defensive arc.
Zander Dalbosco was Bright’s best, with his quality ball use around the ground and inside 50 helping his forwards post a huge total.
Declan Bren (six goals) and Luke Quirk (three goals)
have added a dimension or two to Bright’s forward line since joining the club this season, while attacking midfielders Max Rampling and James Love both chipped in two goals of their own.
Cooper Thomason kicked five goals to take his tally to 28, one ahead of Greta spearhead Frazer Judd,
which now takes him to the top of the list of the league’s leading goalkickers in the early stages of the season. Senior coach Paul Harrison was pleased with how the game played out.
“I thought our brand of footy was at times the best it’s been all year, and our ball movement from defen-
sive 50 to our forward 50 was clean and precise for most of the day,” Harrison said.
“We can still work on cleaning up some fundamentals like being cleaner over the footy.”
Whorouly coach Lachy Moore said his side was outplayed by a strong opposition.
“Bright are a good out-
fit that seem primed for contending in Septemberthey’ve got strong bodies in and around the contest with a dangerous forward line in ‘Coop’ (Cooper Thomason), Luke Quirk and Declan Bren,” he said.
“Unfortunately we were unable to capitalise on any entries in our forward line and it’s fair to say character came into question.
“Matt Vescio was great, Sam Ferguson notched up his 100th game at the club and we were able to hold them to one goal in the last quarter.”
Bright’s reserves side also recorded a triple-figure margin in their favour with a comfortable win over Whorouly in the earlier game – 24.12 (156) to 3.0 (18).
Tom Mullane-Grant (11 goals) and Dylan Bursill (nine goals) caused plenty of headaches for the Whorouly defenders, while Reuben Jamieson and Marcus Kinthari starred in the midfield.
Bright will be looking to extend their winning streak to five as they make the trip to Whitfield to take on King Valley this Saturday afternoon, while the Lions head across to Goorambat.
THE Lions remain undefeated in the A grade competition after a securing a 20-goal victory over Bright at Pioneer Park.
From a slow start in the opening quarter, Whorouly accelerated to take the points 48-28.
Bright’s defence stood strong through the first term, with the home side a goal up at the first break, before the Lions switched into gear.
A 12 goal to five second quarter turned momentum Whorouly’s way, which the Lions were able to capitalise on.
Bright tried to stem the tide of goals, and were able to peg a few back themselves, but the Lions’ shooters were on song.
The home side managed seven goals through the final quarter, but Whorouly shot true with 16 goals of their own to complete the 20-goal margin.
Whorouly coach Kelly Cousins said it was a brilliant performance from her side, despite the warm weather.
“It was hot, it was unseasonably hot - we used our tactical subs and used some late-quarter rotations which I think helped our midcourters have an extended break before coming back on and going again,” she said.
“Bright were solid for the first quarter, and it probably took us a while to figure out their style of play.
“Their defence was solid, they had a really good defence, they were tough to break through at the start, but then we got a bit more rotation in
our goal ring which spread their defence a little bit.
“The girls are still taking a while to settle into the match, in that first half they seem to take a bit of time to settle into the match and their opponents.
“Our attack end is still settling into each other and finding those connections, but I think we’re building each week, and we’re getting better at it.”
Whorouly’s Tayla Allen and Sally Wood were on top of their opponents for the majority of the game, while Bright’s Molly Whitty and Kristi Hacket toiled hard all day.
In other results from the day, Whorouly took wins in B grade (54-36), B reserve (52-34), and the under 15s (24-20), while Bright proved too strong in the under 17s match with a 50-34 win.
THE rough start of the year continued for Myrtleford’s senior footballers, with the Saints falling 16 points short of Lavington at the Lavington Sports Ground.
The Saints squandered chances in their forward 50 to fall to the Panthers 10.13 (73) to 13.11 (89).
Lavington had the run of play early, breaking out to a 17-point lead by the end of the first quarter.
Momentum shifted Myrtleford’s way after the break, with the midfield group delivering the footy to the forwards, but the results didn’t translate on the scoreboard.
Myrtleford managed 2.7 in the second term and trailed by 14 points heading into the second half of the match.
The Panthers stretched their legs in the third, pushing the gap out to 26 points before a high-pressure final quarter of footy.
Myrtleford coach Craig Millar said consistency and maintaining their class throughout the game was key to registering some positive results.
“It’s a similar story to the last few weeks, we just weren’t able to do what we needed to do for long enough,” he said.
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
“We had our highest inside 50 count, our highest possession count for the season, but we just didn’t make enough of our opportunities, particularly in the second quarter when we kicked 2.7.
“We didn’t have any scoreboard pressure, and it was hard to wrestle it back.
“We’ve been working really hard on our ability to get the ball in the front half of the ground, and we’ve seen some significant improvement over the last couple of weeks.
“We’ve got a bit of work to do there, but we’re not far away.”
Bowen Cologero was immense, racking up 35 disposals, while Matt Munro and Zac Pethybridge continued their impressive run of form.
“He (Cologero) was outstanding, he’s been really good for us since coming across from the GV, and Matty Munro is really starting to hit his straps,” Millar said.
“We know he’s a really good player, his last couple of weeks have been outstanding.
“Zac Pethybridge contin-
■ From back page
“We were able to absorb it, then get a turnover and score four or five goals in a row, which was really good.
“We really got on the front foot early, which was great.”
La Spina said the efforts from the entire team were to be commended, with players performing their role no matter where they were on the court.
“It’s all just clicked in the past fortnight, and we’re playing some really great netball,” she said.
“It was probably Bec (Piazza) and Tina’s (Way) best game that I’ve seen them play as a duo, the ball couldn’t get in the ring.
“It was coming back down the attack end pretty quickly a lot of the time, which was great to see.
“Daisy (O’Kane) had an amazing game, she held really strong under the post and was so confident to put the shots up, and was able to get rebounds when she did miss those goals.”
The result sees Myrtleford fourth on the A grade ladder with a 2-2, first in line behind the three undefeated teams Corowa Rutherglen, Wodonga Raiders and Wangaratta.
The Saints will hope to spoil the Magpies’ dream run this weekend when the two go headto-head at the Wangaratta Showgrounds on Saturday.
“Like Yarrawonga last week, they (Magpies) are a team that brings the best out in you,” La Spina said.
“Their brand of netball is so quick, it’s good netball, and I think that brings out the best in you.
“They’re a great team and they have been for a really long time, but it’s teams like this where you’ve got to beat the best to be the best.
“We’re really looking forward to the contest.”
In other netball matches from the weekend, it was a clean sweep for the Saints, recording victories in the B grade (53-40), C grade (59-48), under 17s (46-23), and under 15s (57-26).
ues to get the good jobs –that Oosterhoff (Lavington forward Tim Oosterhoff ) got hold of him early and kicked three goals in 10 minutes, and then I don’t think he kicked a goal for the rest of the game.”
The Saints will look to this weekend to break their losing streak, up against a similarly winless Wangaratta.
Millar said while neither team has had the success on the scoreboard they would like, the Magpies could never be underestimated, and it would take a whole-team effort from the Saints to take the points.
“We’ve played three of the top five teams at the moment and we know our best footy is good enough to go with them,” he said.
“We’ll need to play our best game for the season thus far if we’re a chance of beating them.
“We know they’re a good side, they’ve been a strong club for a long period of time, so it’s going to be a tough match for us but it’s one I know our players are really looking forward to.”
In other results from the weekend, the reserve Saints were downed 4.9 (33) to 8.10 (58), while the thirds lost 3.4 (22) to 17.16 (118).
Round 5
Saturday 27th April
Greta v Nth Wangaratta Greta v Nth Goorambat v Whorouly Goorambat v King Valley v Bright v Milawa v Bonnie Doon v Moyhu v Benalla v Benalla BYE- Tarrawingee BYE-
Round 4
Saturday 27th April 27th Yackandandah v Wahgunyah Yackandandah v Mitta United v Tallangatta Mitta United v Dederang Mt Beauty v Beechworth Mt v Beechworth Wodonga v Barnawartha v Barnawartha Chiltern v Thurgoona Chiltern v Rutherglen v Kiewa Sandy Creek v Kiewa Creek
Wednesday, Apr 24 24
Richmond vs Melbourne vs.
Thursday, Apr 25 25
Essendon vs Collingwood Essendon vs. GWS vs Brisbane vs.
Friday, Apr 26 26
Port Adelaide vs St Kilda vs. Saturday, Apr 27 27
Gold Coast vs West Coast vs. Hawthorn vs Sydney Hawthorn vs. Round
Nth Melbourne vs Adelaide vs. Geelong vs Carlton vs. Carlton
Fremantle vs Western Bulldogs Fremantle vs. Western Sunday, Apr 28 28
A CAMEO appearance from former AFL star Harley Bennell has broken Bomber hearts to continue Dederang-Mount Beauty’s winless streak in the Tallangatta and District Football League.
Bennell’s six-goal haul was the catalyst for Wahgunyah’s senior side securing the four points for the first time in 40 matches and almost three years, with their most recent win coming way back in June 2021.
The Bombers were not without their own chances to register an earlyseason victory away from home, with inaccurate goalkicking costing them dearly in their 15.8 (98) to 12.17 (89) defeat.
Dederang-Mount Beauty held single-figure leads at quarter-time (four points), half-time (eight points) and three quarter-time (one point), but were overrun by a spirited Wahgunyah outfit who were full of hope and managed to kick five goals to three in the last term to clinch a thrilling win.
Pre-season inclusions
Matt Paddle and William Webb found plenty of football between the arcs, while Cameron Benkovic starred up forward with six goals.
Michael Collins and Cameron Jones also chipped in with two goals each in what was a high-scoring contest with plenty of scoring opportunities for both sides.
Meanwhile, DederangMount Beauty’s A grade netball side has made it two wins on the bounce to consolidate their position in the coveted top five in Tallangatta league netball.
■ Continued page 20
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
MYRTLEFORD’S A grade netball squad seem to have found their feet in the O&M season, following a comprehensive victory over Lavington Panthers at Lavington.
The Saints secured the back-to-back win by 25 goals, coming home 59-34 over the Panthers.
The first quarter featured a flurry of goals for the Saints, with the defenders turning the ball over repeatedly and denying Lavington the chance to pile on the scoreboard pressure.
The Saints started to pull away from the eighth minute, with shooters Emma Sharp and Daisy O’Kane scoring seven goals in the space of five minutes to see the margin push to seven goals by the end of the first term.
Lavington started to score more freely after the break, but the Saints were able to stand up to the pressure and convert on the scoreboard.
The margin never looked like closing through the second half of the game, with Myrtleford notching up their second win of the season in style.
Coach Olivia La Spina said the side had come a long way since round one.
“It was a really great game, a real four quarter effort,” she said.
“We went out there with the emphasis on just focussing on 15 minutes at a time and setting ourselves little goals each quarter.
“We’ve had a huge focus over the past few weeks on absorbing when the momentum swings the other way, and I think we did that really well on the weekend.
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