Euroa Gazette 080223

Interim CEO appointed at Euroa Health service

Melissa Seymour to take over from departing Cherree Hunter later this month ypg

OUTGOING Euroa Health

chief executive officer (CEO) Cherree Hunter has confirmed the appointment of Melissa Seymour as interim CEO effective from February 24.

Ms Hunter’s resignation was confirmed in a message to the public by chairman Linsey Siede in January, with changing family circumstances cited as the reason for stepping down from the role.

BY GUS RIDDER gridder@ nemedia.com.au

Melissa Seymour has been with Euroa Health in the role of manager innovation and special projects for two years in which time she has led significant change for the organisation including the implementation of their Radiology Services, ICT

system improvements and driven culture change through her work with Safer Care Victoria.

Ms Seymour has family origins in Euroa which strengthens her passion for the organisation and understanding the role of Euroa Health in the community.

Ms Hunter says that she is “delighted to know through this interim appointment, that the site

is left in very good hands.”

The Euroa Health Board of Management will continue with the process of formal recruitment of a future chief executive through February and March.

Members, staff and interested persons in the community are invited to hear from outgoing chief executive Cherree Hunter regarding the progress of year two of the Euroa

Health 2021-2025 Strategic Plan at a Town Hall Meeting.

The meeting will be held in the Education Room at Euroa Health (entry via Weir Street, Euroa) on Thursday, February 16 at 4.15pm.

This will also be an opportunity for Ms Hunter to provide an update of all things Euroa Health and answer any questions you may have.

A LARGE crowd gathered in Euroa’s Sevens Creek Park on Saturday to to build awareness and start discussions about the upcoming referendum on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament. See story page 14.

PHOTO: Janet Fogarty

Council weighs in on ARTC updates

THE Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) is calling on residents in the Strathbogie Shire, in particular Euroa, to give their feedback throughout February and council is encouraging the community to take this opportunity to have its say on the crossing, which is being upgraded as a result of the Inland Rail Project.

Strathbogie Shire Council Mayor Laura Binks congratulated the community on sharing their views during the first phase of consultations when two proposals were put on the table.

“When the ARTC released two draft designs options to replace the Anderson St Bridge in Euroa, Council’s message was clear,” Cr Binks said.

“We asked the community to share their views, share them loudly and share them on repeat.

“The Euroa community is strong and passionate about this issue.

“We all want the best solution for the Euroa Railway

Precinct because it has a significant impact on our town’s future.

“Council’s commitment to this project has not changed.

“We want to ensure the decision makers hear and listen to our community’s feedback and we believe very strongly the community’s preference should be the solution implemented by the ARTC.”

Cr Binks said it was important for everyone to take the time to check out the plans for the vehicle underpass and understand the design in its entirety.

“This is an important chance for residents to view the proposed design - it can be viewed on the ARTC’s website or you can attend the drop-in centre in 46-50 Binney St, Euroa throughout extended hours during February.”

ARTC will also be available to discuss the proposal at the Euroa Farmer’s Market on February 18 from 9am to 1pm.

“Council’s vision for Euroa is a united community, one that is not divided by a railway line,” Cr Binks said.

“We believe good design creates inspired and connected communities - one of our key goals for all our townships.

“In Euroa, the Federal Government’s Inland Rail Project, presents an opportunity for council and our community to think bigger than just the future solution of the Anderson St Bridge and redevelop the entire Euroa Railway Precinct.”

The release of the Anderson St design proposal coincided with Strathbogie Shire councillors attending the official launch of the Federal Government’s Inland Rail Project in Glenrowan where construction began on February 1, 2023.

For further information and to have your say, visit: https://inlandrail. artc.com.au/where-we-go/ projects/tottenham-to-albury/regions/north-eastvictoria/#anderson-st.

Haines welcomes progress on Inland Rail underpass option

INDEPENDENT Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines has welcomed the announcement from the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) that the government agency will be taking further steps to investigate and consult with the community about an underpass as part of the Inland Rail project.

The ARTC announced on Wednesday it would move forward with Euroa’s preferred option of an underpass to replace the Anderson Street Bridge.

Consultation and planning to replace the bridge began in 2019, but the community has made it clear through surveys and consultation that a bigger, higher bridge was not an acceptable replacement.

“This is really encouraging news from the ARTC,” Dr Haines said.

“The community has

made its preference for an underpass known for years now and it is a great sign that the ARTC has listened and will be acting on the strong message from the community.”

Dr Haines has spoken with representatives from the ARTC about the announcement and committed to speak further with the organisation as part of the consultation.

“It is really positive that the ARTC will be sharing further information with the community about the underpass, including technical information and visualisations, and take further feedback,” she said.

“At the start of this process the community didn’t feel listened to by the ARTC, but this is a huge step forward, both for Inland Rail and for relations between Euroa and the ARTC.

“The people of Euroa have engaged in this process of consultation right from the beginning and I am confident they will continue to work with the ARTC constructively and in good faith.”

Since being first elected in 2019, Dr Haines has worked closely with communities in Indi that will be affected by the Inland Rail project, including Euroa, Benalla, Glenrowan and Wangaratta.

Former Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack visited Euroa at the invitation of Dr Haines in 2021, listening to the community about the impact of inland rail on the town.

The ARTC has already announced that it will progress the preferred community option in Benalla, also following a sustained local campaign.

RAIL UPDATE: Council has discussed the recent updates from the ARTC while representatives attended the launch of the Inland Rail Project in Glenrowan. Pictured is Cr Paul Murray (left), Mayor Laura Binks (second from left) and Cr Chris Raeburn.

HAINES WEIGHS IN: Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines has welcomed updates from the ARTC suggesting progress on an underpass option, something she has campaigned for in recent years.

Inland Rail works begin

By BELINDA HARRISON

THE Inland Rail project took an important step forward on Wednesday with the beginning of major construction works in Victoria.

It means construction is now underway in two of the three states.

The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) marked the occasion with a community event in Glenrowan, welcoming construction in Victoria after a thorough planning, engagement, and design process.

Connecting Melbourne and Brisbane via regional Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland, Inland Rail is Australia’s largest freight rail infrastructure project and aims to better connect businesses, manufacturers and producers to national and global markets and create new opportunities for Australian in-

dustries and regional communities.

Victoria is expected to benefit significantly from Inland Rail with freight efficiencies and investment opportunities expected to boost the state’s potential output by $6 billion over the first 50 years of operation.

Businesses in Victoria are already benefiting from Inland Rail.

As at December 2022, 58 contracts at a value of $269.1 million had been committed to Victorian businesses for services and supplies on the Victorian section of the project.

Inland Rail follows along the existing North East Rail Line that was upgraded in 2021.

To enable double stacked trains ARTC must upgrade existing infrastructure at 12 sites including Euroa, Benalla Station Approach Road, Benalla, Beaconsfield Parade bridge, Glenrowan, Wan-

garatta Station Precinct, Wangaratta and Murray Valley Highway, Barnawartha North.

McConnell Dowell, the appointed contractor on the first four projects at Seymour, Barnawartha North, Glenrowan and Wangaratta, has commenced preliminary site works and will move into major construction in coming weeks.

The remaining projects are currently in the reference design stage.

Rebecca Pickering, interim chief executive Inland Rail said the Inland Rail was a nationbuilding project, supporting jobs and economic opportunities in regional communities and improving Australia’s freight network.

“Over the next four years, Inland Rail is set to deliver vital local stimulus and support hundreds of Victorian jobs,” Ms Pickering said.

“Construction activity will bring opportunities for businesses to participate in delivering the work, but there will also be a positive flow-on effect for motels, retailers, cafes and restaurants through to a range of service providers who will reap the benefits of the project.

“ARTC remains committed to meaningful and respectful consultation with the communities along the alignment as we continue through delivery activities for these sites.

“We acknowledge the construction activity will disrupt local communities close to our projects and we thank them for their patience and understanding as we deliver this important project.”

For more information on Inland Rail in Victoria, visit https:// inlandrail.artc.com.au/wherewe-go/projects/tottenham-toalbury/.

ARTC release underpass design visualisations

By GUS RIDDER

THE Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) has released new images that visualise plans for the proposed underpass at the Anderson Street Bridge site in Euroa.

The ARTC have said they acknowledge the community’s preference for a vehicle underpass and that they have undertaken additional technical investigations to better understand the road safety, flooding and emergency management impacts and risks associated with this design option.

The new plans include some of the mitigation measures that will be required for the underpass option; including raised earth mounds surrounding the underpass, culverts, pumps and a sump that will ensure the continued use of the proposed underpass road in the modelled flood scenarios.

The images will be part of the recently resumed community consultation period being held locally, with residents having an opportunity to view the visualisations and learn more

about the mitigation factors that will be required.

“Before progressing the proposed underpass to the next phase of design, we want to share the information from the additional investigations and answer any questions the Euroa community may have about this updated information,” ARTC Victoria and South Australia projects general manager Ed Walker said.

“We’ll share the hydrological mapping and an updated visualisation showing the proposed underpass with flood mitigation measures required.

“We’ll also discuss any impacts on emergency services vehicles and the proposed detours required should the underpass become inaccessible.

“Replacing the Anderson Street bridge to allow for the safe passage of doublestacked freight trains with an underpass is a complex solution.

“We are sharing the updated information to ensure the community has a chance to understand the design impacts of the proposed mitigation measures on the underpass and we want your feedback.”

Rainfall (Euroa Township)

Total rainfall for the week ending 11am on Monday, February 6 was 14.2mm. This included 1.6mm on Monday, January 30, 9.4mm on Friday, February 3, 2.2mm on Saturday, February 4 and 1mm on Sunday, February 5.

SAFETY FEATURES: Visualisation of the Anderson Street proposed road underpass showing the flood and safety mitigations required at the southern entry.

UNDERPASS PROPOSAL: Newly released visualisation looking south towards Railway Street over the Anderson Street proposed road underpass. IMAGES: ARTC

Nagambie Splash Park opening

It’s time to splash around in Nagambie!

Council’s new free Splash Park opened on Saturday February 4, 2023, for all to enjoy.

Keep an eye out on our social media accounts for opening hours and details.

Thank you to the community for their patience during recent delays in obtaining a risk assessment for the facility prior to opening.

Harry’s Creek Road Closure

A section of Harry’s Creek Road has been closed from Tuesday 7 February, 2023 until 5pm Friday 17 February. Council apologises for any inconvenience caused. Council started construction of the re-alignment of the Harry’s Creek Rd and Bonnie Doon Rd intersection in December last year, however, we have come across a significant amount of soft ground that requires treatment.

Join our Community

Panel

We’re super excited to have opened applications to our community panel, which will provide input into Council’s important plans, projects and strategies.

The Share Strathbogie Community Panel is being established to continue Council’s goal to deliver best practice community engagement. Membership will not be capped – meaning everyone who puts up their hand will join – with at least half the panel being renewed every two years. Most importantly – participation is up to you. You can do as much or as little as you like and you can participate any way you like (online, face-to-face etc)

To learn more, read the guidelines and apply, Scan the QR code or go to www. share.strathbogie.vic.gov.au

Pitch my Project – calls for ideas now open Strathbogie Shire residents – it’s time to pitch your idea!

We’ve launched our annual Pitch my Project – which gives our community the chance to pitch ideas to include in the 2023/24 Budget.

This year we’re extending the ‘pitch’ timeframe and there will be more than three months to pitch ideas. We’ve also released guidelines which include a clear assessment process, and the successful applications will be put to the community to decide which make it into the 2023/24 Budget.

To pitch your idea head to www.share. strathbogie.vic.gov.au

Share your ideas on activities to support

flood recovery

Our Mobile Flood Recovery Hub has now visited Euroa, Avenel, Kirwans Bridge and Nagambie. We’ll be heading out for more face-to-face sessions in the new year, however you can share your ideas online. We’re asking our community for ideas on the potential projects and activities that will support our region’s recovery. Head to www.share.strathbogie.vic.gov. au to share your thoughts or scan the QR code.

Free RAT tests

Free Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) are now available for all community members through our Customer Service Centres in Euroa (109a Binney St) and Nagambie (293 High St).

Kirwans Bridge closure

Kirwans Bridge remains closed until the insurer’s report has been given to Council. We apologise for this ongoing delay and the inconvenience associated with the closure but the bridge and the community’s safety remain our top concern.

1800 065 993

Electoral structure review Strathbogie Shire Council is one of 12 Councils being included in the first round of Victorian local council electoral structure reviews.

The reviews will be conducted by independent electoral representation advisory panels.

Visit vec.vic.gov.au/strathbogie to find out how to attend an online public information session.

Preliminary submissions for the electoral structure review of Strathbogie Shire Council open at 9 am on Wednesday 1 February 2023 and close at 5 pm on Wednesday 22 February 2023.

ARTC calling for feedback on proposed Anderson St underpass

A draft proposal for an underpass design at the Anderson Street rail crossing in Euroa has been released for comment by the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC). ARTC are calling on Strathbogie Shire, and in particular Euroa, residents to give their feedback throughout February and Council is encouraging the community to take this opportunity to have its say on the crossing, which is being upgraded as a result of the Inland Rail Project.

Drop into the ARTC shopfront at 46-50 Binney Street, Euroa during:

Tuesdays: 14, 21, 28 February 10am-3pm

Wednesdays: 8, 15 February 2pm-6pm

Thursdays: 9, 16 February 10am-3pm

Visit ARTC at the Euroa Farmer’s Market on 18 February, 9am-1pm, Rotary Park, Kirkland Avenue, Euroa. Tenders now advertised We’re inviting expressions of interest for the following projects:

Provision of Tree Maintenance Arboriculture services (contract number 22/23-67). Tender closes at 4pm on February 9, 2023.

Supply and Install Nagambie Recreation Reserve Lighting (contract number 22/23-65). Tender closes at 4pm on Friday February 10, 2023.

Balmattum Hill Mountain Bike Trail Planning Consultancy (contract number 22/23-70). Tender closes 4pm on Thursday February 16, 2023.

Provision Of Consultant to Develop ‘Active And Connected: Cycling And Walking’ Strategy (contract number 22/23-24). Tender closes 4pm on Wednesday February 22, 2023.

Provision of Flood Damaged Rectification – Culvert Damage Removal - Panel of Suppliers. Lump sum Contract with Lump Sum breakdown (contract number 22/2336). Tender closes 4pm Wednesday February 22, 2023.

Provision of Flood Damaged Rectification – Bridge Repairs. Package 1 (contract number 22/23-37) & Package 2 (contract number 22/2338). Lump sum Contract with Lump Sum breakdown. Tender closes 4pm Wednesday February 22, 2023.

EOI documents can be viewed online at www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au or scan the QR code. Tenders and Expression of Interests can only be lodged online through the Tendersearch portal.

Work with us

We’re looking for talented people to join our team: Recovery Coordinator. Full Time (12-month contract). Band 6 - $78,902 annually + 10.5% super. Applications close 9am, 13 February 2023.

Flood Recovery Customer Liaison Officer. Full Time (12-month contract). Band 6 - $78,902 annually + 10.5% super. Applications close 9am, 13 February 2023.

For more information and position descriptions visit our website at www. strathbogie.vic.gov.au

www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au

info@strathbogie.vic.gov.au

Follow us for regular updates @strathbogieshire

Council rehomes bonded dogs

AFTER a pair of bonded English Staffordshire Terriers came into council’s care recently, they were faced with a slightly tricky rehoming situation.

The lovable Lily, 9, and Wally, 12, were surrendered together and council soon contacted Stafford Rescue Victoria to discuss possible options for the duo.

Strathbogie Shire Council Mayor Laura Binks said Stafford Rescue Victoria had been simply amazing throughout the process.

“Wally and Lily headed off to Animal Aid in Coldstream who will vet check and care for them until such time as Stafford Rescue Victoria can find a suitable home for them,” Cr Binks said.

STAFFIES REHOMED:

Council has worked with Stafford Rescue Victoria and Animal Aid to rehome two Staffordshire Terriers that came into council care recently.

“Stafford Rescue Victoria will meet all costs associated with the temporary ac-

commodation in Coldstream and will not adopt them out unless they are completely satisfied that the new owners are aware of the care and attention that a Staffy really needs.”

Most importantly, the service will ensure the pair are adopted out together and not separated as they have been bonded for life.

“We are very confident Stafford Rescue Victoria will find suitable owners for these two dogs so they can enjoy the rest of their days with a loving family,” Cr Binks said.

“Well done to the team involved - this is such a lovely example of the breadth of amazing work our Local Laws department do.”

Adventures await at Nagambie Splash Park

THE Nagambie Splash Park opened over the weekend, with the Buckley Park site set to provide another exciting activity for local residents.

The $1 million splash park includes a variety of fun play equipment which was selected after an engagement process with the community.

The splash park provides a fantastic water play space for children, with something for children of all ages to enjoy.

“It was wonderful to have so much input from Nagambie parents and children who will be the major users of the new splash park,” Strathbogie Shire Mayor Laura Binks said.

“The voting for the equipment for the splash pad design showed that we have a

very engaged group of residents both big and small who were delighted to choose the equipment for this new facility which is now ready for the community to enjoy.

Cr Binks thanked the community for their patience during recent delays as council worked to ensure the facility operates safely, meeting the communities’ expectations.

“After recent floods, getting the necessary risk and safety assessments completed proved to be challenging - insurance assessors were seriously hard to access,” she said.

“Council worked as hard possible to ensure the facility could be opened as soon as possible and we are very excited that the community can now enjoy it.”

The facility is free to use

and open to the public from 8am to 8pm, daily, until April 30.

Cr Binks reminded the community that there were some conditions of use and rules to remember when using the Splash Park.

“It is an unsupervised facility so children must be actively supervised by an adult at all times,” Cr Binks said.

“Be sure to read our conditions of use before using the Splash Park as there are some important things; we want our community to have fun but to also look after themselves and others while using this shared facility.”

To report faults, hazards or unsafe behaviour at the Nagambie Splash Park, contact Strathbogie Shire Council on 1800 065 993.

Strathbogie Shire

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: The Nagambie Splash Park has now opened, with the Buckley park site set to remain open until April 30.

Local bestowed with Australia Day recognition

By GUS RIDDER

DOCTOR John Craven, a former Euroa and Terip Terip resident, was recognised as an Officer in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AO), as part of the Australia Day recognitions.

Dr Craven, now based in Melbourne, received the honour for his “distinguished service to food biosecurity and environmental safety, to veterinary science research, and to the dairy industry”.

He has performed various roles in the Australian Agricultural and Food Standards industries throughout his career, including being a director of the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority from 2011 to 2016.

Dr Craven explained why he believed he was recognised, discussing some of the significant accomplishments from his storied career.

“The main thing for me was that I had a long research career, primarily looking at the transmission

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS

of diseases between animals and humans,” he said.

“Then I worked for the dairy industry for a number of years.

“It was around the same time that the industry really began investing money into research.

“I was involved in helping set the agenda for the research and development program for the dairy industry.

“I suppose the most important thing I did, in my opinion, was chairing a committee that was responsible for accrediting veterinary schools.

“We worked with other countries like the US, UK and more in Europe to set up mutual recognition of the accreditation in each country.

“It was often difficult because they all wanted to do things their own way.”

Dr Craven said seeing his name as part of the Australia

Day honours was a proud moment and described some of the process behind receiving the recognition.

“My belief is the process took quite a number of years,” he said.

“We had an indication last year that this might be possible.

“It was a nice feeling to see it on the day (January 26) and that it was all fair dinkum.

“It’s nice to get recognised by your colleagues, all of it was quite exciting.”

The local area still means a lot to Dr Craven, who still ventures back to the region when he gets the opportunity.

“I started in Euroa a very long time ago,” he said.

“We lived in Terip for a number of years, my family first settling there in the 1880s.

“I had some quite amazing teachers in Euroa that in retrospect I think helped me decide what I’d do in the future.

“I’ve still got a lot of connections and will always keep coming back to the area.”

CONTRIBUTIONS RECOGNISED: Dr John Craven was recognised as an Officer in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AO) for service in a number of integral industries.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Transport dramas with pump not working

THE next time it rains will the footpath under the rail line to the station be full of water, because the pump isn’t working again?

No one in the shire even knows who to call to fix it when it happens.

The people who have spent all that money and time to push for a road under the rail line have said nothing about the needs of the people who use the train.

This is how we are after 150 years of train travel to Euroa, we have lost one service and nothing has replaced it.

Benalla has eight trains to and from Melbourne and four buses, who in Euroa will say a word to do better?

Robyn Neville, Euroa

What a breakfast on Australia Day

I’D like to give a big thank you to Neville and Lorraine Mawson for putting on the Australia Day breakfast outside the newsagents on January 26.

I am a proud Australian, and enjoyed being entertained by Greg Dudley, Bernie Walker and Bill.

The Aussie eggs and bacon breakfast

cooked by Neville was a typical and delicious start to Australia Day.

Annette Diffey, Euroa

LETTERS to the editor must be signed with the full name, address and contact telephone number of the author provided. Letters under 250 words are preferred and we reserve the right to edit letters to fit available space. Nom de plumes will only be published at the editor’s discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by this newspaper.

Email editor@euroa-gazette.com.au

Movie night fundraiser returns

YOUR GAZETTE TEAM

RURAL Australians for Refugees (Strathbogie Shire) will be holding another film screening to raise funds for Ukraine following the success of their previous sessions in December.

“The Earth is Blue as an Orange (2022)” - is a film emerging from the embattled Ukraine and will be shown as part of the fundraiser in Violet Town.

It’s one of two movies being screened by the group to raise much-needed funds for Ukrainian refugees in Poland.

To cope with the daily trauma of living in a war zone, Anna and her children are making a film together about their life in

the most surreal surroundings. This is a sensitive and beautiful film about how children process upheaval in their lives and

ON SALE AT:

Euroa: Euroa Newsagency

Violet Town: Violet Town Corner Store

Avenel: Avenel Newsagency

Benalla: Benalla Newsagency

Strathbogie: Strathbogie Store

Nagambie: Nagambie Newsagency

Longwood: Longwood Newsagency

Merton: Merton General Store

Seymour: Seymour Newsagency

Shepparton: Lovell’s Newsagency

Wangaratta: Edgar’s Newsagency

how hope and love combat the darker side of existence.

Before sharing a light supper, people attending the event

will also view a Crimean film, Homeward, (2019), which examines the intergenerational displacement of Crimean Tartars.

The second movie will follow supper.

The RAR would love to see anyone interested at St Dunstan’s, Violet Town, to support them and welcome some Ukrainians who have found refuge here in north-eastern Victoria.

Details: Thursday, February 23 at 6pm

St Dunstan’s Hall, High St, Violet Town $15 for two films, with light supper

Haines sponsors Iranian political prisoners

INDEPENDENT Federal Member for Indi Dr Helen Haines this week announced she is undertaking political sponsorship of three prisoners in Iran facing execution, in a bid to increase the pressure on the Iranian Government to save them from the death penalty.

Dr Haines has joined with Members of Parliament from across the world and across the political spectrum in Australia in taking part in political sponsorship of the prisoners.

The Iranian Embassy has been informed by letter of Dr Haines’ sponsorship of Kambiz Kharout, Arshia Takdastan and Mehdi Mohmmadifard.

Kambiz Kharout, 20, protested in Zahedan.

In a statement released on Monday, Dr Haines said he was arrested at his place of employment on October 1, 2022 and tortured to force self-incriminating confessions.

Arshia Takdastan, 18, was arrested in Noshahr on September 24, 2022 and forced to confess to leadership of protests.

Mehdi Mohmmadifard, 19, is a hairstylist and tattoo artist, his passion since he was a young teenager.

He was arrested on October 2, 2022 and said to have been tortured to force self-incriminating confessions.

He is currently held in the central prison in Noshahr and was

sentenced to death in December 2022.

In the letter to the Iranian Embassy to Australia, Dr Haines urged the Iranian Government to immediately quash their convictions and death sentences, and requested their immediate release from prison.

“I abhor the cruel treatment by the Islamic Republic judiciary and security forces of young Iranians peacefully exercising their right to protest,” Dr Haines said.

“I urge the Iranian Government to place an official moratorium on executions with a view of abolishing the death penalty and releasing those detained.

“According to the statements of Amnesty International and other human rights organisations, due process has not been observed in the investigation and trials of these citizens.

“I am aware that trials have been conducted in secret, and forced confessions have been obtained using torture.

“Further, accused people have been denied access to a lawyer and the opportunity to a fair and unbiased hearing or a meaningful appeal process.”

Dr Haines said she was sponsoring the political prisoners in order to bring further attention to their plight and to build on the global movement dedicated to supporting the prisoners.

Dale Mann PHOTOGRAPHER

Edward Higgins DIRECTOR

Gus Ridder JOURNALIST

Lorraine Millard ADVERTISING ACCOUNTS MANAGER

MOVIE FUNDRAISER: The Rural Australians for Refugees will hold another fundraiser in Violet Town this month, raising money for Ukraine.

DEATH SENTENCE: Kambiz Kharout (left), Arshia Takdastan and Mehdi Mohmmadifard all face execution if they are not freed.

Euroa – your participation matters

WHAT IS INLAND RAIL?

Inland Rail is a nation building project that will transform how goods are moved around Australia, generating opportunities for our regions and our economy, now and into the future.

In Euroa, there is not enough clearance under the Anderson Street bridge for double-stacked freight trains, so we have been talking to the community about the options to replace the Anderson Street bridge.

HOW CAN YOU PARTICIPATE

1. Visit inlandrail.info/euroa

2. Drop into our shopfront at 46/50 Binney Street, Euroa

3. Visit us at the Euroa Farmer’s Market on Saturday 18 February

We’ve clearly heard a vehicle underpass is the community’s preferred option for replacing the Anderson Street bridge to allow clearance for double-stacked freight trains.

This is a more complex solution than the alternative option of a new higher bridge, as it requires flood mitigation measures be incorporated into the design. To better understand this, we’ve undertaken additional technical investigations.

As part of a series of engagement activities to invite your feedback, we will be sharing the hydrological modelling that shows the outcomes of different sized floods on the proposed underpass and the impact this has on road safety and emergency management.

We will also share a visualisation showing updated road safety requirements such as fencing and the flood mitigation measures proposed, including a rise to road levels leading to the proposed underpass, raised earth mounds adjacent to the entrance and the inclusion of pumps and stormwater basins.

We will be sharing this information, answering questions and listening to your feedback at our shopfront, the Euroa Farmer’s Market and as part of community focus group discussions. Community feedback is helping inform the design and your participation matters to ensure the best solution for Euroa is progressed.

4. Keep an eye on social media and the Euroa Gazette

5. Nominate to take part in a focus group discussion

EXTENDED SHOPFRONT HOURS

The Euroa shopfront is normally open every Tuesday, 10am–2pm.

We are extending these shopfront hours and adding extra dates during February, so everyone has a chance to come and talk with us about the project. Extended February opening hours are:

Tuesdays: 7, 14, 21, 28 February 10am–3pm

Wednesdays: 8, 15 February 2pm–6pm

Thursdays: 9, 16 February 10am–3pm

CAN’T MAKE THESE TIMES?

Book an appointment by phone 1800 732 761 or email victoriaprojects@artc.com.au

NOMINATE TO BE PART OF A FOCUS GROUP

We have engaged an independent consultant to conduct community focus groups, with a facilitated presentation and discussion on the additional investigations we have undertaken.

These sessions will be held on Tuesday 21 and Wednesday 22 February. Morning, afternoon, evening and online sessions will be available. Register your interest by completing the online form at inlandrail.info/euroa or contact us on 1800 732 761 or victoriaprojects@artc.com.au

NowNext

Reference designs incorporating the whole station precinct later in 2023

We know the community is eager to be involved in how Inland Rail is delivered in Euroa and we’re committed to keeping you informed and seeking your feedback as we progress.

Community feedback is important to the Inland Rail design in Euroa

Lilly lucks out

By STEVE KELLY

A DEVENISH mother whose daughter’s enrolment at Devenish Primary School has been refused will not give up her fight with the Victorian Education Department.

Jenny Binion and her daughter Lilly showed up to the primary school located next door to her home on the first day of term one last Monday, along with four other students who wanted to enrol.

But they were told by two representatives that there weren’t any teachers and they couldn’t come to school.

“I had no notification as a parent, who has a child enrolled already, that there was going to be no one at school on Monday,” Ms Binion said.

“We had one email from the education department last year informing us that the school was recommended to close and the decision hadn’t been signed off on yet, but they would be happy to meet with me in February to discuss the future of the school then.

“On what should have been the first day of school one of the representatives took me into the office and he basically said the department will compensate me financially if Lilly was to find

Devenish mum asks questions about closure of Devenish school q

“The school is working with that student to find them suitable enrolment at a nearby school,” the spokesperson said.

Ms Binion is planning to take further interested students to the department’s head office in Wodonga in an effort to keep the school open.

“It isn’t good enough and I just thought if I make enough noise maybe someone high enough will sort it out,” she said.

MP for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland has been liaising with the department about Devenish over the past month and wrote to the Minister for Education before Christmas.

“I understand the decision has been made to de-staff the school this year with the potential to reopen in 2024 if enrolments increase,” Ms Cleeland said.

a school elsewhere.

“I told him ‘I don’t want money and the department accepted her enrolment last year and if you knew this was happening then why did you accept her in the first place’.

“They asked me to unenroll Lilly and I said I’m not going to unenroll her, send

me a teacher for my child.”

Ms Binion said the decision was made in a closed meeting of the school council last year to shut the facility, without consultation with the community.

“The school was open last year with three students (two now in high school) so a group of us went to Tim

McCurdy and he told us to get some numbers up, so we paid for some advertisements calling for interest,” she said.

They had four new students confirm they wanted to enrol and about 15 others from Benalla who were interested if they could get a bus organised.

If the school shuts for good the alternative would be a 60km round trip for her daughter to commute to Broken Creek Primary School.

An education department spokesperson said there are no teachers currently assigned to Devenish Primary School as there is only one enrolment for 2023.

“The communication with families has left a lot to be desired.

“No one should be missing out on any days of crucial education because the wheels of bureaucracy are moving so slowly.

“We need this process to be expedited, an official decision made, and clarity provided.”

FIGHT FOR SCHOOL: Mum Jenny Binion’s daughter Lilly was refused access to Devenish Primary School as the education department wants to close the facility down.

New preps start school

their year six buddies, with the school’s house captains kindly helping out and having fun in the classroom.

On a visit to Euroa’s primary schools last week, it was clear to see that the students were settling into their new environment quickly.

The kids were clearly enjoying their reading time at Euroa Primary School, with all of the class patiently listening to their teacher with big smiles on their faces.

They were later joined by

The new preps at St John’s Primary School were equally as excited by their new school, with the kids eagerly lining up for a group photo after finishing some activities with their teachers.

After taking a serious photo, the kids were thrilled to take the silly one after.

Local primary schools have been happy to welcome the new starters as

they embark on the next step of their education, with staff from schools providing some input on the New Year.

“What a great start to the year for the Foundation students at St John’s,” Therese Stewart, principal of St John’s Primary School Euroa, said.

“They arrived with their families for their very first day at school ready for lots of learning and new experiences.

“After an excellent transition in 2022 the children were very familiar with

their classroom and were so excited to see their Year 6 Buddies, who were eagerly waiting for them.

“The children are to be congratulated on their independence and resilience.

“Their teacher, Mrs Sally Redfern has been very impressed with their enthusiasm and their Learning Support teacher, Mr Saxon said the children are enjoying taking home their readers each night.

“The staff and students of St John’s are very excited for the year ahead!”

SCOOTING THROUGH THE COUNTRY: Japanese backpacker Uni has gone through the region as part of his 3000km journey from Melbourne to Cairns on a scooter.

Uni welcomed on scooter journey

JAPANESE backpacker Uni has made a splash in the region as he attempts to travel the 3000km journey from Melbourne to Cairns using only a foot-powered scooter.

The 23 year old landed in Melbourne in late January, before immediately making and documenting his journey across the country on his scooter.

Uni was a big hit in the local community, stopping through Euroa, Avenel and Violet Town as part of his travels so far.

ered Uni in town on January 30 and had him for breakfast at their place.

Mr Basham called Uni’s trip a ‘gutsy effort’ and the local community Facebook pages shared a similar sentiment.

Words used to describe his journey included “inspiring”, “good news”, “an amazing effort”, “a fab adventure”, “very impressive”, and “crazy”.

Brendan Paterson of Euroa joked “somebody should tell him that the VLine service ain’t quite that bad.”

NAGAMBIE WELCOMES NEW KIDS: Nagambie Primary School’s new prep students gathered together for a photo with principal Robert French (left), teacher Kylie Elson and education support member Virginia Wursthorn.

Violet Town resident Pete Basham and his wife discov-

The trip has received national media coverage, with The Guardian covering the early parts of his journey.

I am working to restore integrity to politics, improve health care in our region, and find solutions for the housing crisis. Fixing phone and internet coverage, proper funding for our roads and action on climate change that benefits regional Australia are all vital for our economy to thrive.

As the Independent Federal Member for Indi, I am committed to you and your family, not following a party line.

Wangaratta / 117 Murphy Street

03 5721 7077

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helenhaines.org @helenhainesindi helen.haines.mp@aph.gov.au

Authorised by Helen Haines 117 Murphy St Wangaratta VIC 3677

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NEW COHORT: St John’s Primary School in Euroa was among the local schools who welcomed their new prep students at the end of January.

KIDS across the region have started their first week of prep at their new schools, with the school year resuming after the summer holidays.

PHOTO: Pete Basham

By GUS RIDDER

Redlegs and Cleeland push for female change facilities

LONGWOOD Football Netball Club has continued their push for female change facilities to support the club’s growing netball program with the support of Euroa MP Annabelle Cleeland.

With the Redlegs now boasting a full complement of seven netball sides in the Kyabram District Football League the club is seeking female toilets and change facilities at their netball precinct.

Ms Cleeland has written to the Sports Minister and invited her to Longwood to see the need for the upgrade in person.

“The Redlegs are the lifeblood of the community, and they are well overdue for dedicated female facilities,” Ms Cleeland said.

“With close to 150 netballers using the courts during the season every home game there is a serious need for change and toileting facilities.

“We all know the benefits of being involved in community sport and this environment needs to be inclusive and support female participation.”

Ms Cleeland thanked club president, Ricki Shiner, for his hard work and passionate advocacy for the club’s needs.

“Everyone in Longwood

knows how much blood, sweat and tears Ricki has put in to the Redlegs and how driven he is to provide the very best for the club,” Ms Cleeland said.

“He is a deserving recipient of Longwood Citizen of the Year and I know how much he would love to deliver further upgrades at the Rec Reserve.”

Ms Cleeland said she would welcome a visit from the Sports Minister and a commitment to female facilities at Longwood.

“I would love to bring the Minister here and show her the pressing need for this in-

vestment,” Ms Cleeland said.

“This is a commitment I made at the election if elected to government and it would be great to have the returned government match this.

“There are several clubs around our region that really need facilities upgrades including Longwood, Murchison-Toolamba and Seymour.

“The Minister is definitely welcome, and I’d be happy to take her round for a day and show her exactly where our sporting clubs need support, starting with the mighty Redlegs.”

Fire blazes outside Euroa

By GUS RIDDER

A GRASSFIRE starting from a property on Collier Road, Euroa last Thursday has resulted in a significant CFA effort to stop the spread from reaching other nearby properties.

An alert for the fire was made around 4pm on Thursday, with calls being made to several nearby CFA

brigades for assistance.

Several brigades from Euroa and district were present at the scene as quickly as possible, with several tankers and helicopters being required.

Despite severe weather conditions at the time, including strong winds and rain, the fire was contained thanks to the work of local emergency services.

Following the fire, burnt grass and ash could be seen for a considerable distance on surrounding properties. One resident had the grassfire reach up to the edge of his home, luckily not causing any significant damage beyond the outside area.

Investigations are ongoing into the cause of the fire.

FIRE BURNS: A grassfire originating from a Euroa property was put out by several CFA crews last Thursday.

FACILITY UPGRADE NEEDED: Euroa MP Annabelle Cleeland is pushing for female changing facilities at Longwood FNC, Ms Cleeland is pictured here with club president Ricki Shiner and Archie Shiner.

Rock and roll at local property

By GUS RIDDER

GIANT rocks have fallen at least 700 metres from the top of a hill, causing a spectacular sight on the property of a local farmer.

The rocks fell from the southern end of the Garden Range at Gooram Valley early last week, leaving a devastating trail that included damage to trees, fences and local water supplies on Robert Colvin’s farm.

The rocks have left a clear path from the top of the hill down to the paddock where they eventually stopped, with craters forming at every point they bounced on the way.

The largest rock, measuring over two metres high and two metres wide, is estimated to weigh over 20 tonnes.

A slightly smaller rock was located nearby and is estimated to weigh close to 6 tonnes.

No one saw the rocks fall, with the impact being spotted last Monday by Mr Colvin and his family.

Since then, the family has trekked to the top of the hill to see if they could spot the point it fell from.

Questions remain over how the rocks fell from the top of the hill, with them speculating recent rains or possible tremors nearby being suggested as the cause.

PATH OF DESTRUCTION: The giant rock fell a great distance before stopping in the middle of a paddock below, the path it fell is clearly seen in the background.

CRATERS: The momentum of the rock caused several craters throughout the hill and paddock, hitting town water supplies.

DROP ZONE: Maisy, Ollie and Mia were quick up the hill to find where the rock had dislodged from.

THE SIZE: Wendy Gazaly stands next to the larger rock, estimated to weigh over 20 tonnes.

s Day

Avenel Market open ahead of Valentine’s Day

By LYNJ JAMES

AVENEL’s monthly market will recommence this Sunday, February 12 just in time to get the perfect Valentine’s Day gift.

The market will be open from 9am until 1pm with varied and high quality stalls having something for everyone.

The market and entertainment will be held in the Avenel Jubilee Park.

The delicate six-arched bridge made of lights in the Jubilee Park is worth a glimpse after dusk too.

Avenel’s wonderful regular services continue:

Library bus - Wednesdays 1pm-3.45pm at the Jubilee Park.

Community shopping bus - Thursday morning trips to Seymour (phone Jim Billings on 0433 270 101).

Avenel swimming pool - Open weekdays from 12pm8pm and weekends from 12pm-7pm.

ACTIVITIES IN AVENEL: The market returns to Avenel this Sunday, just in time to get the perfect Valentine’s Day presents.

LOVE IS IN THE AIR: Get prepared for Valentine’s Day this year.

Do something special for a loved one this Valentine’s Day

WITH Valentine’s Day approaching next week, the time has come to make plans to impress your love on the most romantic day of the year.

Valentine’s Day, which is celebrated on February 14 (next Tuesday) first begun as a Christian feast day in honour of Saint Valentine, before becoming a day celebrated between couples sometime around the 15th century.

While Valentine’s Day is celebrated in most countries, different cultures

have developed their own traditions for this festival.

In some parts of the world Valentine’s Day is observed as a day for expressing love between family members and friends, rather than that of romantic couples.

Some traditions include leaving lollies and gifts for children and others include acts of appreciation between friends.

Valentine’s Day is most commonly associated with romantic love, with millions of Valentine’s Day cards being ex-

changed each year.

Gifts of flowers or a single red rose are sent with romantic messages to loved ones and couples spend special time together.

Many couples choose to celebrate Valentine’s Day with dinner, a picnic or special home-cooked meal.

Many restaurants offer Valentine’s Day dinner promotions and food is often presented with symbols of love like hearts and flowers. With it just being around the corner, get prepared now!

PHOTO: Jesse Goll on Unsplash

Author Hazel Edwards attending exhibition launch at Euroa Library

THE ‘Juvenilia’ exhibition is on its way to Euroa following a successful exhibition at Shepparton Library, with exciting news revealed about its launch.

Goulburn Valley Libraries are very pleased to welcome the much-loved Hazel Edwards, author of the ‘Hippopotamus’ books, to the launch on February 24.

The Juvenilia exhibition displays works created by notable Australian children’s authors and illustrators when they were young authors such as Hazel Edwards, Danny Katz, Alison Lester, Trent Roberts and many more.

Curated by Aimee Chan, this exhibition showcases the juvenilia of Australian children’s authors and illustrators and their early attempts at storytelling.

Even the most prominent creators of children’s books started as children, dreaming about telling their story through word or art and maybe one day publishing them to share with the world.

The works in this collection have kindly been lent for display by their makers, who all want this generation of dreamers to know that everyone has to start somewhere.

Bronwyn Cole, program co-ordinator for Goulburn Valley Libraries, spoke about

the contributions from the authors and illustrators.

“I was amazed when I first

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INFORMATION SESSION

Please come along on Wednesday 15 February 2023 at 2.30pm to the Euroa Health Education Room, via Weir St Euroa where our Trainee Graduates and training provider Partners in Training will be available to talk to you about the program.

Please call:

Angela Marchant

Ph: 5795 0200

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RTO: 28137

cated, details artworks since he was a child.

“I also thoroughly enjoyed the hilarious, highly imaginative stories some of them told.”

To celebrate the exhibition’s opening at the Euroa Library, a launch event is planned for 4.30pm on Friday, February 24.

Curator and author Aimee Chan will be present to speak about the exhibition and answer questions.

Aimee has authored a range of picture books, and is herself one of the contributors to the exhibition, so don’t miss the opportunity to grab her signature.

Hazel Edwards OAM will speak at the launch and will be available to sign books afterwards.

Generations of Australians have grown up reading about the adventures of a cake eating hippopotamus that likes to hang out on a particular roof.

Everyone is welcome at the launch but if you can’t make it, take the time to drop in and browse the exhibition before it moves to its next location on March 15.

saw the range of items contributed,” she said.

“It’s very obvious who con-

tributed some of the pieces.

“Graeme Base appears to have been drawing compli-

Entry to Juvenilia is free for viewing during regular library open hours.

Californian Bungalow in Leafy Gardens

For Sale:

Land Size:

Agent Contact:

Property Location: 158 Anderson St, Euroa

EUROA EXHIBITION: Hazel Edwards OAM will speak at the launch of the Juvenilia exhibition at the Euroa Library.

PHOTO: Copyright Agency

YES Picnic sends a strong message

“I’M here to listen” was the common response from those who came to the Euroa #YES Picnic in the Sevens Creek Park on Saturday.

Organised by a team of local volunteers, the picnic was the first of its kind undertaken to build awareness and discussion around the upcoming referendum, when Australians will be invited to vote on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

Jimmy Ivill set the scene with his warm acknowledgment of country and later his ‘MyFutureAcademy’ space was set up for children.

He was followed by guest speaker, Jill Gallagher AO, a Gunditjmara woman of great standing in Victoria and former Treaty Commissioner.

Ms Gallagher spoke powerfully of her mother’s experience, of her experience, and the urgent need to give Aboriginal people a Voice on matters that affect them.

She described the process of community consultation which has underscored the Treaty process here in Victoria and urged the crowd to ‘walk with us’ and to finally ‘listen’.

Uncle Herb Patten not only hit the right note with his gum leaf playing, but also with words about his family story of struggle, as Jack Patten was one of the organisers of the 1938 Day of Mourning.

Uncle Herbie reminded

the crowd of the 1967 Referendum which was about ‘counting’ Aboriginal people and called on people to recognise that the 2023 referendum is about ‘listening to Aboriginal people’.

Barry Jones AO, former member of the Australian House of Representatives and Australian National Treasure, spoke with his usual authority and enormous

knowledge of history and the Constitution and about the need to embrace the Voice.

He made the point that ‘detail’ had never previously been required in referendum questions and said it isn’t needed in this one either as parliament has the role of determining the legislation which will establish the Voice.

Libby Woodhouse, a long

term advocate for reconciliation spoke about the event and what it meant to her and the wider community.

“It was such an immense joy to listen to Jill Gallagher’s glorious, clear and kind voice for the Voice,” she said.

“The crowd were thoughtful and attentive and this means so much to me after all those years of folk not listening.”

Local attendees included Karissa Wilson, who said “It’s such a small thing for us all to do, to vote for the change.”

“We all want to be heard and feel valued in society and it’s absurd that Australia’s First Nations people don’t currently have a say in policies that directly affect them.”

Euroa’s YES Picnic is the first of many planned events

and conversations in the lead up to the 2023 referendum.

The volunteers designed it to give people a chance to listen and to learn about what is possible if an ‘Indigenous Voice to Parliament’ is successful.

For information people can simply search the websites associated with the Uluru Statement and ‘From The Heart’.

POLITICAL SUPPORT: Independent Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines was in attendance, pictured with guest speaker Barry Jones.

The YES Picnic will be one of several planned events in the region to discuss the Voice to Parliament.

FAMILY EXPERIENCE: Uncle Herb Patten discussed the struggles faced by his family throughout the years and shared support for the Voice as a way of listening to Indigenous people.

DISCUSSING THE VOICE: Guest speaker Jill Gallagher (left) spoke on her and her family’s experience as Indigenous people, pictured here with fellow speaker Barry Jones.

HERE TO LISTEN: A large crowd gathered in Sevens Creek Park for Saturday’s YES Picnic, an event to learn more about the upcoming referendum.

PHOTOS: Janet Fogarty

Probus meet for first time in 2023

FRED Jungwirth, Euroa’s Probus Club president, opened their first meeting of the year by welcoming members and speaking briefly about the planned activities for February.

The monthly club meal will be at Seven Creeks Hotel at 6pm on Wednesday, February 8.

To book and if you need transport ring Bernie on 5795 2867.

The February outing will be lunch at the Nagambie Rowing Club Hotel followed by a visit to the Mitchellton Winery Art Gallery to view Indigenous Art on Tuesday, February 14.

Members will gather outside Uniting Church Hall, Euroa at 11am.

To book and if you need transport ring Sue on 5795 3637.

The next Probus meeting will be held on Monday, February 27 at 10am in the Uniting Church Hall.

The annual general meeting will be held in March when positions become vacant.

If you or anyone you know would like to take up a position, application forms will be available at the February meeting.

January’s guest speaker Bill Sargood was born in Euroa, attended Euroa primary and high schools,

was a shearer, farm worker and later farm manager in the Euroa District and an excellent footballer and cricketer.

Euroa sports were a very high standard during his time and were regarded as the best country cricket team in Victoria.

For the last 38 years Bill has lived in the Albury-Wodonga area, while working in Elders Real Estate before returning to Euroa recently.

Bill has written poems through the years on a variety of subjects, reading some during the meeting and making ordinary events sound so interesting.

Bill read his 2006 poem about the drought called “Cobwebs in the Rain Gauge”, and another recent poem about the pandemic.

When staff at Elders were leaving, he would write special poems for them.

Ellen Doyle presented a small gift to Bill and thanked him for attending the meeting.

GUEST SPEAKER: Bill Sargood was the guest speaker as Probus held their first meeting of 2023, reading out his poems to those in attendance.

“Cobwebs In The Rain Gauge”

By BILL SARGOOD

There’s cobwebs in the rain gauge

But there’s a ring around the moon

The ants are very busy

It must start raining soon

Rabbits have started breeding At night the moths are out

That’s just the sign we’re looking for

To end this bloody drought

The springs are running once again

Kookaburras have started to laugh

It looks like we may soon have Enough water to have a bath

Wild ducks are breeding early

The swans have built their nest up high

They wouldn’t have gone to that much trouble

If the lake was staying dry

Whirlwinds of dust are frequent Currawongs warble once again

Sounds at night are very loud Now that’s a sign of rain

The new moons standing on its end

Old Wally’s complaining about his gout

Soon the heavens will open up And wash that rain gauge out.

Church Services

ANGLICAN CHURCH

Holy Eucharist

Sunday February 12th

9.30am St Paul’s Euroa

11.30am St Dunstan’s Violet Town

10am Wednesday February 15th

St Paul’s Euroa

Locum priest: Rev Jane Trigg

Enq: 5704 0330

www.anglicaneuroa.org.au

All Welcome

BAPTIST CHURCH

Pastor John O’Ring

Enq: 0421 233 251

31 Kennedy Street, Euroa

Sunday February 12th, 10am

Tuesday: 9.30am Prayer, 10.30am Bible Study.

Listen to Vision Radio 88.4 FM

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST Services at Kelvin View Hall

Sunday February 12th

10.30am Morning Worship

Everyone welcome

Pastor: Murray Broughton 5795 1950

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Balmattum

Every Sunday 3pm Worship

Enq: Rev. Stephen McDonald 5762 6275

Yea Presbyterian Church, 9am St Andrew’s Seymour, 11.15am

Nagambie inquiries to: Bonnie Purbrick 5794 2544 or Bill Day 5794 2070

CATHOLIC CHURCH

St John’s, Euroa

Friday 12.30pm Mass

Saturday 6pm Vigil Mass in St. John’s Church

St Malachy’s, Nagambie

Monday 10.30am Rosary

Wednesday 12.30pm Mass

Mass on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month at 9am

Liturgy of the Word and Holy Communion on the 2nd, 4th and 5th

Sunday of the month at 9am

St Attracta’s, Violet Town

Mass on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 11am

Mass on the 5th Sunday at 10am

Liturgy of the Word and Holy Communion on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month at 11am

St Mary’s, Avenel

Mass on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month at 11am

Liturgy of the Word and Holy Communion on the 2nd, 4th and 5th

Sunday of the month at11am.

St Patrick’s, Longwood

Mass on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 9am

Liturgy of the Word and Holy Communion on the 1st, 3rd and 5th

Sunday of the month at 9am

Enquiries: Fr Tony Hill 5795 3048

UNITING CHURCH

St Andrew’s, Euroa

Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am

Everyone Welcome

Enq: Robyn Burke 5795 3103

Judi Ward 0437 686 072

St Andrew’s, Strathbogie Service on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 11am All Welcome

Enq: Joan Wood 5790 5297

St Andrew’s Violet Town

Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am

All Welcome Enq: John Dunn 0419 362 866

EUROA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

Third Age Club, 19 Kirkland Ave Euroa

Every Sunday Meeting at 9.45am for prayer requests.

10am Service

Enquiries: Aaron 0493 101 663

Childcare and kinder reform needed in regions

THE Nationals Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland has met with Ronni Druitt from notfor-profit Goulburn Regional Preschool Association (GRPSA) to discuss childcare and kinder availability across the region and the need to reform licensing arrangements to better reflect regional circumstances.

Ms Cleeland said organisations like GRPSA are on the frontline, dealing with the availability issues plaguing the region.

“We have extreme cost of living pressures, as well as a labour crisis - more accessible childcare is important to ensure parents can return to work and alleviate these issues,” Ms Cleeland said.

“So much of our region has been designated a childcare desert, something I know so many young families are aware of every day.

“Ronni and her team at GRPSA run 18 preschool centres right across the Goulburn Valley with many facilities having extensive waitlists and not enough licensed places.

“We’ve got huge shortages in Avenel, Nagambie and Seymour.

“While Seymour is receiving a new childcare centre, these issues won’t be resolved overnight.

“Towns like Murchison sim-

ply don’t have any kinder which has a massive impact on the town’s future with families choosing to relocate most of their lives to bigger centres like Shepparton.”

With significant overlap between different levels of government in the preschool sector Ms Cleeland said reform is necessary to simplify the industry.

“Childcare and kinder regulations are incredibly complex,” she said.

“For a regional centre there are licencing, management and land arrangements that often involve all three levels of government.

“In metro areas childcare centres are usually separated from kindergartens whereas this isn’t the case in regional areas.

“This has real implications for availability of care with organisations like GRPSA having to make difficult decisions.

“An extra kinder place can

mean losing a childcare place and with pressure on both waitlists in places like Nagambie it’s just not sustainable for the community with kids and families continually missing out.

“The status quo is not working. I’ve experienced this firsthand and we need to have a serious conversation on reform and simplification to make this process work for our local economy and most importantly our families.”

Flood recovery funds for landowners

THE Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (GBCMA) has carried out preliminary assessments of waterways impacted by the October 2022 floods and will continue to undertake more detailed assessments over the coming months.

Simon Cowan from the GBCMA said there had been significant damage to some streamside/ riparian fencing and other infrastructure along waterways across the Goulburn Broken catchment.

“Flood recovery funding is available for the replacement or repair of eligible flood-damaged streamside/riparian fencing along waterways,” Mr Cowan said.

“But landholders who want to undertake works to address flood-related damage to private property or assets on a waterway need to apply for and be issued with a Works on Waterways Permit.”

The fee for a Works on Waterways Permit has been waived for applications directly related to damage that occurred in the October 2022 flood.

Other works that could be eligible for flood recovery funding include debris management, weed control and revegetation.

Landholders with damaged fences or other flood-related waterway issues are urged to contact to the GBCMA on (03) 5822 7700 to arrange an assessment.

CHILDCARE REFORM: Euroa MP Annabelle Cleeland sat with Ronni Druitt from local non-profit GRPSA to discuss the need for increased childcare across the electorate.

FLOOD FUNDING: The GBCMA is continuing assessments of flood damages across the region, encouraging impacted people to apply for recovery funding.

PHOTO: GBCMA

“Longer-term plan” needed for staff shortages: Birrell

FEDERAL Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell has called for urgent action as staff shortages across the health and aged care sectors continue.

Mr Birrell said short term assistance is needed to encourage staff, especially registered nurses, to take up jobs in the regions.

“Whether that is some sort of relocation incentive, or wage subsidy, we have to do something to ease the pressure of operators and current staff,” Mr Birrell said.

“We also need a longerterm plan to grow our own health workforce by training people locally.”

During the election campaign, The Nationals promised $19.5 million to get the Goulburn Valley Clinical Health School off the ground, a partnership between Goulburn Valley Health and La Trobe University to train nurses, midwifes and allied health workers in Shepparton.

The $26.5 million project would deliver a dedicated state-of-the-art facility to support student learning in the clinical setting, better preparing them for the transition to clinical practice and addressing the medium and longterm workforce needs of the region.

“The Albanese Government scrapped the dedicated regional fund we were going to use to fund the Clinical Health School and still hasn’t opened up alternative funding streams,” Mr Birrell said.

Instead, more pressure has been applied, especially to smaller regional aged care operators with a requirement to provide 24/7 Registered Nurse care.

“I supported the implementation of the recommendations from the Aged Care Royal Commission but warned at the time that the transition needed to be carefully managed including exemptions for

NAGAMBIE NOTES

with Di Grant

P: 5794 1720

E: stardust2011@bigpond.com

regional operators who could not recruit the required staff,” Mr Birrell said.

Mr Birrell said Shepparton Villages’ decision to close Hakea Lodge was driven by the age and unsuitability of the building, but more broadly across the aged care sector the inability to recruit staff is a looming crisis.

“GV Health and La Trobe University are still committed to the Clinical Health School and together we continue to lobby the Albanese Government to fund it as a medium to long term solution to the workforce challenges in the region,” Mr Birrell said.

Trivia night success at Mechanics Institute

By DIANE GRANT

MORE than 120 trivia buffs turned up for the first of four events to be run by the Nagambie Mechanics Institute (NMI) volunteer committee, raising funds for a new kitchen in the 150 year old establishment.

The Institute trivia night committee was thrilled with the response of the first fundraiser given to celebrate a milestone series of events.

Cathy Lawrence of the Institute’s trivia night committee spoke about what it meant to hold an event like this.

“Celebrating 150 years is an opportunity to organise fund raising events and to share the history of the NMI and its impact in the Nagambie community over the years,” she said.

Questions from trivia quiz master Ian Moore, laughter, active games, dancing to the music and a friendly atmos-

phere combined with good food and drink ensured a pleasant Saturday night’s fun at the NMI event. Thanks to the generous contributions of sponsors and partners, there were plenty of great items for the silent auction, individual auctions, raffles, dances,

games and of course the trivia.

The Seymour Goulburn Rivers team took out the trivia games competition with a score of 84 and the Nagambie Table 9 Team took out the bobby prize.

But it didn’t matter if your team won or lost, everyone

THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK: If something seems far too big to cope with, maybe you are meant to share the load with someone else?

PERSONALS: Happy 87th birthday wishes to Melva Pianta.

Birthday greetings go Aaron King, Remy Brew, Alison Howell, Frank Pongracic, Kelly Hutcheson, John “Scrubby” Fuhrmann, Jenny Finnigan, Robert Page, D’Arcy Fry, Dave Kells, Libby Friedrich, Peter Kanters and Sean O’Brien.

Anniversary wishes to Danny and Naomi Miller, Gary and Rachel Jones, Darren and Andrea Skelton and happy 59th anniversary to Merv and Pam Shepherd.

LIBRARY MURAL LAUNCH: Tuesday, February 14 .

Nagambie Library Mural launch will be held at 10am at the library.

The mural for the Nagambie Library was conceived by librarian Catherine Langdon and acted upon by Nagambie Art Group artist Trudy Oldaker and fellow artists, Valma Crerar, Wendy Cook and Joan Loughnane who painted for weeks alongside Trudy to complete a wonderful artistic mural for the community to enjoy.

Ms Langdon is thrilled that the mural idea has grown into a project supported by the local Nagambie Art group that comes under the banner of the Nagambie Lakes Community House.

The completed mural will be placed on the library outside wall.

NOW FESTIVAL: Nagambie On Water Festival on Saturday, February 25 will be held at Jacobson’s Outlook, Buckley Park and Blayney reserve.

Costa community canoe challenge will run from noon-1.30pm.

Stay and Play water fun from 10am-4pm.

The Great Kelvingrove Floating Golf shoot out will be held at 4pm.

Win $5000 for a hole in one.

Details www.gonagambie.com.au/now.

NAGAMBIE MUSEUM: The Nagambie and District Historical Society have been hard at work making sure the renovations in the museum are going to plan.

The inside work has been done and painting, and new display cases have arrived.

The Society hopes to be open for visitors again soon.

SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB: Tai Chi, get moving group, cards, chess, movie days, line dancing, bingo, table tennis, crafts, and more have begun and a trip for a BBQ at Goulburn Weir is planned soon.

CHURCH NEWS:

ECUMENICAL - Shrove Tuesday on February 21.

Ash Wednesday, February 22.

Start of Lent.

February 24 will be the start of six weeks Lenten Bible Studies at St Malachy’s from 11am.

Details with Wendy Keenan.

World Day of Prayer service will be hosted by the Nagambie Connect Faith Community (UC Church) in the Nagambie tennis clubrooms on Friday, March 3.

ANGLICAN - Thursday, February 23 .

Mothers’ Union meeting at Christ Church Seymour from 1.30pm.

March 19 - Mothering Sunday with posies and simnel cake to be blessed.

has a good time.

NMI president Hugh Lawrence thanked his wife Cathy and her trivia night team for all their hard work and efforts and all the time they gave to organising the fundraiser.

He also said “thanks to everyone here for putting their hands in their pockets and the generosity of the town.”

Cathy Lawrence thanked Ian Moore for his trivia mastery (he didn’t sit down once during the four hours) and for everyone’s focus on their enjoyment.

She said “thanks for giving your funds for a great causeit’s magic.”

Ian Moore thanked everyone for supporting the NMI’s night and said “I had a blast.”

Congratulations to the Nagambie Mechanics Institute organisers and all those who supported them in many ways for making their first event to celebrate their 150th year a success.

March 25 - Saturday is Lady Day at Wangaratta Cathedral.

Domestic Violence workshop will be held along with a service and lunch.

St John’s Nagambie Sunday services at 11am.

St Paul’s Avenel on first Saturday at 5pm and the fifth Sunday of the month at 10am.

POC Rev. R.Pennington 0477 921 111.

CATHOLIC - Nagambie St Malachy’s will hold Rosary Mondays 10.30am and Wednesday 12pm.

First and third Sundays 9am Mass.

Second, fourth and fifth Sundays will be 11am Word and Communion.

Avenel St Mary’s on Sundays will have 10.30am Rosary.

First and third Sundays 11am Mass.

Second, fourth and fifth Sundays 11am Word and Communion.

Nagambie W.Keenan 0459 595 908.

Avenel G.Kenworthy 0405 125 963.

Fr A.Hill 0439 033 029.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH - Nagambie St Andrew’s will hold 9am services on the first and third Sunday of the month.

W.Day 0429 933 116.

UNITING - Seymour and Avenel Uniting Church. 9am in Avenel.

Rev. J. Payne 0408 176 754.

Nagambie Connect Faith Community (Uniting Church) second and fourth Sundays at 11am, Nagambie Senior Citizens’ Centre. R.Close 0402 286 277.

WINNERS: Seymour’s Goulburn Rivers team were the trivia night’s winning team. Pictured from left is Ailsa and Mark Lackie, Jane Miller, Judy Wills, Ian Moore (trivia quizmaster), Kerrie Turner, Elliot and Catriona Jarman.

SUCCESSFUL EVENING: Members from the Nagambie Table 9 team had a ball at the trivia night. Pictured from left is Sally Fyfield, David Voight, Des Mason, Mel Arnold, Cathy Lawrence (trivia night committee), Wendy Mason, Wendy Keenan, Terry Keenan and Bob Arnold.

Calling creative people with big ideas

LOCAL creative professionals with big ideas to transform their practice and build their skills and careers are invited to apply for the latest round of the Victorian Government’s creative R&D program, the Creators Fund.

The fund, which aligns with grants in the medical, science and technology fields, supports creative professionals to undertake the kind of intensive research, development or experimentation that leads to career defining, groundbreaking creative work.

Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes encouraged artists, musicians, designers,

filmmakers, writers and other creative professionals from across northern Victoria to apply.

“The Creators Fund is an important pillar of the Victorian Government’s investment in the creative industries, backing our creative innovators to break new ground and level up their careers,” she said.

Applications are open to Victorian individuals and collectives working in any creative field including digital games, literature, craft, theatre, music, screen, dance, visual art, fashion and design.

Grants of between $20,000 and $50,000 are available to support activities for up to six months.

Since its launch in 2018, the Creators Fund has supported almost 160 Victorian creatives statewide, working in all creative fields.

Previous recipients include industrial designer Nyein Aung whose grant supported

the design of a new bed for palliative care use, and screenwriter Alexander Swords who developed a method for narrative design in games that is now used by developers across the globe.

Writer Maxine Beneba Clarke recently landed a new book deal for a children’s poetry collection she researched and developed with Creators Fund support.

Creators Fund applications are open to professional creatives at all career stages, including creative collectives, and there are dedicated streams for First Peoples creatives, and Deaf and Disabled creatives.

Applications for the 2023 Creators Fund close 3pm Wednesday, February 22 with the Deaf and Disabled stream closing 3pm Wednesday, March 1. For more information, visit https://creative.vic. gov.au/funding-opportunities/ find-a-funding-opportunity/ creators-fund.

Trades& DIRECTORY Services

CREATOR FUND OPEN: Create innovators in the region are being encouraged by Northern Victoria MP Jaclyn Symes to apply before the February 22 deadline.

45-47 Railway Street, Euroa, Victoria

BURTON (Nee Craven), Marjorie Jean. 9/8/1925 – 28/1/2023

HALSALL, Graham. 6/12/1940-23/1/2023

BURTON, Marj.

The members of the Euroa Bowls Club offer their deepest condolences to the family of former valued and respected member Marj.

BURTON, Marjorie.

Euroa FNC are saddened to hear of Mrs Burton’s recent passing. Our thoughts are with the entire Burton family at this time.

May she rest in peace.

Much loved brother of Ivy and Uncle to Julie, Glenn and their families.

Forever in our hearts.

STEELE, Terry (Tessa).

Rest in peace dear Tessa. Car shows will never be the same anymore without you and your pride and joy. You will be sorely missed by so many.

~ Bill S.

STEELE, Terry.

Euroa FNC are saddened to hear of Terry’s recent passing.

CANN, Charles (Charlie). The Deputy Chief Charlie’s family

8 September 1936 - 21 January 2023 (86 years)

Farmer, teacher, conservationist, wise person. A man committed to the guardianship of the earth, of the wilds, of nature; a man who planted trees and shared his passion and thenielsengirls3@gmail.com

STEELE, Terry (Tezza). Passed away peacefully on January 29, 2023. Aged 79 years.

59 years of happy memories with a great husband and Dad. One last show n shine for you mate. Forever loved - rest now in peace. ~ Your loving wife Betty.

STEELE, Terry (Tezza). January 29, 2023.

ASQUITH, Craig.

The family of the late Craig Asquith wish to thank everyone who sent cards, flowers and well wishes. Thank you all.

~ From Lyn and family.

SARGOOD, Lynette (Lyn/Nette/Mum/Nan).

John, Tracey, Kylie and their families would like to thank all our family and friends both near and far for their love and support during the passing of Lyn❤Mum❤Nan.

dropped in for a hug we thank you. for your support and providing the perfect service for our beautiful Lyn❤Mum❤Nan we thank you.

For all those behind the scene that helped in their own special way we thank you. We cherish the comfort and support received by you all during this sad time and will hold all the happy times close to our heart.

~ John, Tracey, Kylie and family.

Full or Permanent Part Time Position

Auscamp is a leading provider of residential group accommodation and school camps.

We are looking for reliable people to fill some of the following roles: Nillahcootie and Charnwood Camp

Maintenance - Skills with building and grounds would be helpful. Cleaning - This is support to our current team.

Cooking - We are a camp after all!

We are flexible in how the hours would be organised. Capability to do some of the above is okay.

Please call or text John Lindros on 0425 724 252 for more details.

Vacancies

Godolphin

The Cumming family from Gobur, sincerely thank all the local Fire Brigades, 3 helicopters and all the people who attended Sunday, February 5. The response and quick action by all, saved a lot of country and heart ache. Well done to you all.

~ Rob, Millie, Shane and family.

GOORAM VALLEY LANDCARE GROUP

The 2022 Annual General Meeting of the Gooram Valley Landcare Group will be held on Monday, February 27th at the Gooram Soldiers’ Memorial Hall. The meeting will commence at 7.30pm.

All Gooram residents are warmly invited to attend. Further information can be obtained from the Secretary on 0419 594 547 Robert Colvin, Secretary, GVLG

N J Todd Funeral Directors

Member AFDA

Our thoughts are with Betty and Terry’s immediate and extended family at this time.

May he rest in peace.

Servicing Euroa & District since 1937

Euroa Basketball Association

Annual General Meeting

Tuesday 7th March, 2023, 7pm at Euroa Secondary College

Sport Stadium

Multi-Purpose Room. All positions have been declared vacant. Enquiries: euroabasketball association@ gmail.com.

Australia, Northwood Park Godolphin have multiple exciting opportunities available at their Northwood Park Stud in Seymour, Victoria.

Vacancies include:

Farm Hand Gardener Head Gardener For more information, please contact Kelly Frost at kfrost@godolphin.com by Friday 17th of February 2023. Please specify which vacancy you are interested in.

TOYOTA Hilu x SR5 2021, extra cab, 30,000km, reg till Dec 2023 (1VB7EQ), many extra 4wd accessories fitted, heavy dut y suspension, bullbar, winch, UHF radio, air compressor, $69,500. Ph 0419 002 359.

MITSUBUSHI Triton, 2017, MQ, Exceed, RWC, highest spec model - leather, Apple CarPlay, alloys etc, 129,500kms, full service history, two new tyres, ladder racks (or standard roll bar), RedArc trailer brakes, light use, reg (AAY513), $34,990. Phone Paul 0402 337 568.

2018 Holden Commodore Lt Zb Liftback Auto MY18, 2.0lt turbo petrol, Apple car play/Android auto, reverse camera, auto park, lane assist, r emote start, keyless entry, 57,500km, exexecutive car and then 1 owner, reg till April 2023 (1OO7EY), RWC can be supplied, full service history, $25,000 ono, inspections welcome, more photos on Facebook, located in Wangaratta. Phone Rachael 0400 432 077.

JAGUAR XF 2008 (Oct), 2.7D V6 (similar to that used in Ford Territory) 189,000km, reg (WTF341), one local owner, serviced locally, approximately 1,000km on a tank of fuel, service records available, RWC, leather seats and dashboard, walnut veneer, winter gold metallic paint and barley coloured interior, excellent condition, $14,900. Call John on 0418 304 376.

Rest in peace.

John David Nielsen of Creighton’s Creek

MAZDA BT 50 XTR

2014 3.2L turbo diesel, 6 speed auto, 4 X 4, 186,000 km, rego to January 2024 (1CP8SR), RWC, UHF radio, dual battery, electric trailer brakes, bull bar, canopy, r oof racks, $27,000.

Ph Alan 0499 087 598.

BMW X3 F23 LCI

Xdrive2d AWD 8 speed

SUV for sale, all model features plus sunroof, top view cameras, new front brakes, 144,000 highway kms, full service history, 12 months rego (ASZ987), $45,900. Ph 0418 597 246.

CONCEPT Belmont 20’ Caravan, van in immaculate condition, REG (Y16541), $34,500,semi offgrid, full ensuite, ai r conditioner, diesel heater, solar panel, gas and electric hot water, new tubs, large annex with walls and sides to suit van awning. Ph

John 0400 043 144.

2016 Red Centre Kimberley 21’6” EC, sleeps 2, GVM 3300kg, QS bed, ensuite, Aug 2023, $72,500.

GOLF

EUROA GOLF CLUB

THE February monthly medals were also the first round of the honour board events of Ladies Summer Cup and the Nolan Trophy for the men and both medals were won by the current club champions, Melissa Eddy and Ed Carracher.

Amazingly it is Ed’s first ever monthly medal at Euroa, with his only previous medal won as a junior at Avenel.

In the ladies, Melissa Eddy won division one with 89-17 Net 72 while Dee McMartin took division two with a Net 76 and Maudie Ingram won the B scratch event with the same score.

Balls down the line went to Justine Collins 73, Gail Allen 74, Michelle Grady and Levina Redfern 76.

44 men have played the first round of the prestigious Nolan Trophy.

Brendan Redfern, who won the event last year, is like the boy with the barrow with his work in front of him if he wants to be in the mix this year, having given up 20 strokes on the leader.

You can’t win the three day events in the first round, but you can lose it.

Ed Carracher’s two under the card 70 - 0

- 70 has him in the lead, one shot in front of Laurie McMartin 71, Glen Burton and Matt Mills both had 72, Matt having just 26 putts along the way.

Dick Farmer and Peter McMahon both had 72 with Bill Wright, Paul Robinson, John Gilbert and Andrew Cullen all with 73.

Kleinig.

slip away and held on to win 23 - 19.

HARLEY Davidson, 2009 Fat Bob, 38,000km, comes with spare pipes, mirrors,(HY607)$25,000.

Ph 0422 794 387.

Ash Pedder and S Brooks defeated Marcus Steers and Andrew Cullen to win a spot in the Murphy Motors four ball semi-final against Chris Burke and Lucas Paul.

JAYCO 2001 Anniversary model pop top, 17ft, twin bed, antenna, annexe, very good condition, registered till Nov 2023, $14,000 negotiable. Ph 0417 267 015.

Gail Allen was at her very best in the ladies Wednesday event with a massive 40 points in division one while Deb Cox also had a great day to win division two on 39 points.

Ball winners were Gay Mitchell, Robyn Lied & Annette Smith.

On Wednesday, Stableford had a good field of 22 players.

On February 2, there were 26 players playing a round of Stableford on the back 9.

The winner with 22 pts was Joe Labas and runner-up was Irene Keogh with 20 pts.

Shaun Bryant took out both N/P’s on the 13th and 16th.

There were 13 players for a fun round of 4BBB Stroke on February 1, with partner selection from a draw.

The winners were Bev Brown and Carol Wallis with 69 net.

BETA 200 Trials Bike 2003 in very goo d condition, recently had full service plus new tyres, no further use, $3,200. Phone Ken 0418 300 220.

Men’s Captain Ross Wishart had his first win as an Australian citizen with 37 points on countback from Bill Wright also 37.

Friday night twilight continues to be popular with 24 players despite some ordinary weather brewing for the 8th round of the Kinross Farms Shootout.

The event also played as the first round of the Keith Seeber Twilight event which needed a three way countback to separate event winner Owen Robertson from Tony Walters and M Creeley who were all on 20 points.

Next Saturday is the second round of the Nolan and the Summer Cup stroke events.

Members are reminded to check their handicaps on the Golf Australia website to be sure everyone is playing on their correct handicap noting that you could be on a different handicap on the front and back 9s.

NAGAMBIE GOLF CLUB

REGULAR summertime weather returned just in time for Sunday’s February monthly medal.

There were 10 female and 28 male players for the Monthly Medal.

Ronda Richards won the women’s contest with -2 and also the winner of the Monthly Medal.

David Sudhloz won the men’s with a net of 69 and Joe Labawas not far with his net score of 70.

The women’s Par competition was enjoyable for all.

Eighteen hole balls were won by Ronda -2 and Sue Verge -3 was runner up.

Nine hole balls down the line were won by Jane Bow -1 (on countback) and Annette Mills was runner up.

The nearest the pin prizes were all hotly contested with Des Phelan tickling the hole on the narrow third, Gary Bow blasting it up to the long eighth, Joe Labas showing some class and touch on the 13th.

Greg Baldwin always likes to go home with a prize when he visits.

Chicken Run had a good showing over the past two weeks with a friendly competition.

There were 16 players for a round of Par on January 26 and the winner was Michael

The runner-up’s were Irene Keogh and Marg Harrison with 70 net on a countback from Moz Fowler and Karyn Thompson.

The 9 hole winners were Bev and Carol with 34 net on a countback from Moz and Karyn with 35 net on a countback from Irene and Marg.

Balls down the line for 18 went to Bev and Carol and Irene and Marg.

Nearest the pin on the 3rd was Moz and on the 16th Karyn.

Next week’s golf will move to Saturday to make way for the Nagambie golf club to host a Summer pennant round normal tee with continue 8am to 8.30am a par event is scheduled with G. Bow on office duty and D. Phelan in the bar.

BOWLS

AVENEL BOWLS CLUB

MIDWEEK PENNANT

Division five

AVENEL had a terrific win against ladder leaders Shepparton Park 13 - 42 to 1 - 30.

The win on the synthetic at Shepparton Park saw Avenel jump up one place on the ladder to third.

Scores were even on the tenth end for Marg Harrison, Marion Gittus, Glen Bell, Graham Lewis (s).

A ‘we can do better attitude’ saw them win six of the last eight ends to claim a convincing 12 shot victory 22 - 10 shots.

Robyn Hyland, Ron Harrison, Charlie Kemp, Rob Kemp (s) was six down on the 15th end. With sheer determination they won the last six ends, each by one shot which was enough to draw the game 20 all.

The next game for Avenel is at home against fourth placed Rushworth.

Division three

Avenel played Numurkah at home with the visitors going home with a win 14 - 73 to 2 - 60.

Ruth Underwood, Rusty Schwab. Spud Furletti, Dennis McGregor (s) led from the fourth end building on the lead with each end.

Ten up on the 21st end, Numurkah staged a mini comeback scoring six in two ends.

But Avenel were not going to let this game

Winning only six of the seventeen ends played, Nyoli Bell, Jenny Furletti, Pam Pedder, Geoff Hateley (s) were well down. They then won the last eight ends to reduce the deficit somewhat losing the game 18 - 32.

Fay Hateley, Kate Donovan, Grace Kenworthy, Noel Slater (s) had a perfect start being up 13 zip after the first eight ends.

Numurkah chipped away after the lunch break to draw even on the second last end at 19 all. The last end belonged to Numurkah scoring a three to win the game 22 - 19.

WEEKEND PENNANT

Division seven Avenel travelled to Violet Town with the hosts winning the match 12 - 52 to 2 - 43.

Mike Dibben, Marion Gittus, Charlie Kemp, Rob Kemp (s) propelled themselves into the lead on the third end with a seven. From there they never relinquished the lead for the rest of the game to win 23 - 20.

Kyle Pedder, Ron Harrison, Ross Sinclair, Glen Bell (s) was ten down after the first six ends. Try as they did, they were unable to make a dent on the scorecard going down by the same margin 30 - 20.

The next game for division seven is away against Rushworth.

Division three

A home game against Shepparton Park last Saturday had the visitors successful with a 16 - 116 to 2 - 76 win.

A gutsy effort from Nyoli Bell, Howard Geldard, Dennis McGregor, Jake Wall (s) for a six-shot win over their opponents.

In a seesawing game, the scores were even at 15 all on end 19.

Eight scoring shots to two in the remaining ends saw Avenel victorious for a welldeserved win.

Pam Pedder, Jenny Furletti, Spud Furletti, Geoff Hateley (s) were involved in the closest finish of the day.

With no more than three shots separating the two teams for a big part of the game, Avenel had slipped to five down with one end to play.

In a nail-biting finish, Avenel just fell short of stealing a win with a four on the last end therefore losing the game by one, 24 - 25.

James Wall, Rusty Schwab, Josh McDonald, Brett McDonald (s) were four up on end 18.

But Shepparton Park weren’t done and scored two fives in the remaining ends for a 12 shot win.

Fay Hateley, Kate Donovan, Grace Kenworthy, Noel Slater (s) were simply out bowled by a classy opposition going down 44 - 11.

The next game for Avenel is home again against Shepparton Golf.

WINNING FORMULA: Lindsay Cocking enjoying a day of bowls.

READY TO SERVE: Phoebe McDermont enjoys herself during a weekend tennis match.

Euroa district tennis heating up as finals approaching fast

By MARK BORTHWICK

WITH only two rounds to go before the final’s series, the season is shaping up to be a good one for Euroa Tennis.

After 13 rounds the top three spots on the A division ladder with St Pauls and Moglonemby fighting it out for top position with Longwood Lawn hanging on for third spot ahead of Strathbogie, whom might come home with a wet sail and launch into the finals.

In Division B, St Pauls continue to impress with wins over the two top teams in recent weeks and they too are shaping up to be a threat in the finals.

St Pauls A played Terip and despite the first three sets being close, Scott Watson and Jake Hill stamped their authority with an 8-3 over Matthew Lawrence and Don Martin.

The women then stepped it up with Faye Mollison and Ella Hill with an 8-4 and Jake backed it up with Declan Weston 8-0.

Declan won all three sets and St Pauls cruised to a 16-game win.

In what was a danger game for Longwood up at Benalla Lawn, it was the men that kept Longwood in the competition with strong wins from Bede Redfern and Scott Meehan 8-5, then Bede and Jacob Tarran 8-1.

Scott then combined with Jacob 8-1 giving the men a clean sweep and 18 game advantage.

The women came good in the mixed with Lily Meehan and Jacob 8-5 and Leanne Armstrong and Bede 8-2.

Jacob once again had a great day, helping Longwood win by 14 games.

Moglonemby played Euroa Lawn without Grant and Kristen Davey and

very nearly got toppled by a much-improved Euroa Lawn this week.

The first three sets were very close until Dublin Anderson and Michael Nolan cut lose 8-2 over Caid Miller and Garry Cummins.

Dublin continued his form with Dan Godsmark 8-2 and then Euroa went into another gear winning all three mixed sets, but Moglonemby hung on to win by four games.

Gooram went up the mountain to Strathbogie and, despite some inclem-

ent weather d elaying the start, Mayra Walsh and Melinda McLachlan were in fine form and comfortably beat the Gooram women 8-1 whilst Mark Borthwick and Josh Higgins pegged the Strathbogie lead with an 8-5. Not to be outdone, Judy Sands and Kim McCabe 8-2 and then Judy and Julie Harrington 8-2.

The mixed had two tie breakers going either way but Josh and Kim bought it home with an 8-3 giving Gooram a surprising win

Euroa Cup takes place in wild conditions

THE Annabelle Cleeland Euroa Cup has taken place in wet and wild conditions with Ceardai running out to be the clear winner on a heavy track.

Held last Sunday, The Euroa Cup, hosted by the Benalla Racing Club, was sponsored by recently elected Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland this year.

Ms Cleeland said it was pleasing to have events like the Euroa Cup back on track after a difficult for years.

“It’s great to see so many people out and about and

enjoying this great community event despite the conditions,” Ms Cleeland said.

“The Benalla Racing Club has supported the hosting of the Euroa Cup for a long time and the Euroa community definitely reciprocates that support.

“A hearty congratulations to everyone who picked a winner and all involved for persevering through the constant rain.”

Ms Cleeland encouraged locals to support upcoming Benalla Racing Club meets and support region-

al businesses.

“The Benalla Racing Club has a big February ahead with race days on February 14 and 27,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Central Victoria is the home of thoroughbred breeding and racing.

“We’re lucky to have regular meets and quality facilities in our own backyard.

“Whether it be racing, a market or dining out I encourage everyone in our region to explore what the North-East and Central Victoria have to offer and support our local economies.”

over last year’s premiers by seven games.

The two B division teams had opposite outcomes.

St Pauls took on higher placed Avenel at home, with a devastating di splay of power tennis winning all nine sets and an incredible 51 games.

Kelly Hill once again only dropped two games with Jason Goss only conceding four games.

Phil Mollison, Rosemay Cameron, Jim and Olivia Gall should all be congratulated on what may

well have been a record winning margin until unfortunately the scorecard came in from Euroa Lawn playing on the hard deck at Swanpool.

Euroa was short of players, and this is not the team to go in a bit light on.

John Anderson and Craig

Durkin nearly snatched a win but fell short 6-8.

It was a hard day in the office with Swanpool winning all nine sets and up 52 games. Next week’s local derby between St Pauls and Longwood should be one to watch.

ALL SMILES: Rowena Ellis was in good form again during her matches.

DOUBLE TROUBLE: Michael Nolan and Daniel Godsmark team up.

GAME, SET, MATCH: Dublin Anderson hits a winner during his game over the weekend. PHOTOS: Dale Mann

CUP DAY: The Annabelle Cleeland Euroa Cup was held on Sunday, January 29 with Ceardai winning the main event. Pictured is Annabelle Cleeland with the Ceardai team.

Apply now for country footy and netball grants

THE annual Country Football and Netball Program has officially opened for funding applications to upgrade sporting facilities across regional Victoria.

Grants of up to $250,000 are available to deliver projects such as new sports lighting, developing, and upgrading change rooms/pavilions and projects that build capacity through new or upgraded playing surfaces.

Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland has encouraged local clubs to put forward applications for funding.

“Plenty of football netball clubs across our region have identified projects that would make compelling cases for funding under this grant stream,” Ms Cleeland said.

Jam-packed week of bowls

By AUDREY MCINTOSH

MIDWEEK BOWLS

ANOTHER successful week for the Midweek Pennant players with all three sides having another win on home greens.

It is a great sight to see the greens being played on each week after the clubhouse became unusable due to the floods and all players still being able to play matches every week.

With all sides playing at Euroa, division one played Kyabram and won 73/69, division three also played Kyabram winning 72/54 and division five won 48/21.

Division one 73/69

K Sutcliffe (s), L Fischer, A Sutcliffe, B Sargood 34/18/ J Dixon

J Kingma (s), G Watters, P Naylou, K Milner 23/19/ C Preddy

A Houston (s), B Taylor, L Byrne, G Sheargold 16/32/ M Grecco

Division three 72/54

D Steers (s), M Cerini, K Steers, D Lomer 33/14/ N Di Petta

R Noble (s), M Steen, K Stevens, N Moon 24/16/ J McFayden

B Diffey (s), M Goode, N Harris, B Alston 15/24/ W Chambers

Division five 48/21

B Hatchman (s), J Blatchford, B Doherty, R Wickson 30/7/ K McTag-

gert

G Andrews (s), R Day, D Morgan, J Dunn 18/14/ G Young

SATURDAY BOWLS

This past Saturday, division two and division four had great wins in their matches giving them both third spot on the ladder for their competitions.

Division six were unlucky with their effort but are still lying in fourth place.

Good luck to all of the teams in their last matches of this interrupt-

ed season due to floods and extreme heat.

Division two 88/78 at Tatura Hill

Top

S Drysdale (s), B Jennings, J Greasley, J Groat 24/15/ F Niglia

A Houston (s), B Taylor, A Grant, D Cerini 24/19/ T Nihill

K Sutcliffe (s), M Stevens, D Steers, B Sargood 18/19/ B Ibbot

J Kingma (s), G Watters, P Naughton, K Kruse 22/25/ J Trevaskis

Division four 92/85 at Euroa against Tatura

B Diffey (s), L Cocking, Reid, G Molane 28/17/ N Tziros

K Milner (s), J Perry, G Blatchford, M Cerini 23/17/ K Cornell

S Willis (s), M Griffiths, T Scarlett, L Barkley 23/25/ P Wallis

D Machonachie (s), R Noble, L Fischer, N Moon 18/24/ K Parks

Division six

As there were no cards available

to get teams, here are the following results for the division.

J South won 22/8, K Byrne lost 13/23 and D Wilson lost 8/34.

Matches this Saturday include division two home to Shepparton Park, division four away at Shepparton Park and division six home to Shepparton Park.

There are still four more draws for Nifty Fifty, with Richard Noble winning the last one a week ago.

BUSINESS HOUSE BOWLS

The second night of business house bowls last Wednesday saw the leaders from the first night stay in the same position.

Hurlers and Bogie Golf remain top on 16 points, followed by Rotary on 14, and Lindsay Park, Castle Creek, Lions and Mill Road all on 12.

The Euroa Gazette team is currently on four points.

“Often our local sporting infrastructure doesn’t match the skills of our country athletes or the dedication of the tireless volunteers that keep clubs running.

“Better facilities mean more participation, more spectators and a boost for local economies.”

The Country Football and Netball Program has delivered more than $35 million to country clubs since 2005.

“This funding stream is specifically designed for country clubs,” Ms Cleeland said.

“We’ve got lots of clubs looking to do things like play footy under lights and upgrade female facilities which would benefit from this funding.

“It would be great to see some much needed funding injected into community sport.

“These clubs really are the lifeblood of our communities and deserve great facilities.”

Ms Cleeland said several clubs had raised their funding needs with her over the past six months.

“The Longwood Redlegs are pushing for new female change facilities and Violet Town’s netball courts could definitely do with some investment,” Ms Cleeland said.

“The Nationals made commitments to fund these upgrades if elected to government as well as new clubrooms for the Seymour Lions and MurchisonToolamba FNC.

“It would be great to see these come to fruition for the community.

“Football netball clubs contribute so much to the community.

“Applications close on March 27 so get in quick and please get in touch if you require any support.”

VETERAN PERFORMANCE: Len Fischer was calm and collected during some division one bowls.

EASY AS YOU LIKE: Richard Noble leads the way on the green.

RELAXED: Jim Perry enjoys a short break during a tight battle

FORM CONTINUES: Euroa’s bowlers have continued to string together good results across multiple divisions.

PHOTOS: Dale Mann

Page 23

Under 14s cricketers’ dominant display in two day match

Cardomone Real Estate

14A grade

Round 8 Euroa V Old Student at Kialla 2-day game

Day 1 Euroa 3/171 (Ethan Saxon 40 n/o, Ollie Swain 40 n/o, Jack Walters 23)

WINTER greeted the team at Kialla reserve, with play being d elayed

by one hour. Euroa won the toss and elected to bat with co-captain Ethan Saxon putting his hand up to open the batting with Ollie ‘Spike’ Wilson. Both boys survived some very quick bowling and saw off the opening bowlers.

Ollie Wilson was first to go trapped lbw for 10, with Euroa sitting at 1/37.

Co-captain Ollie Swain was next in and was due for a big score.

He didn’t disappoint the crowd, he and Ethan Saxon put on a batting masterclass.

Both scoring freely with a 75-run partnership before Ethan retired at 40 off 67 balls in his last game of the season.

Jack Walters was next in; he’s had a lean trot so was desperate for runs.

His extra batting sessions in the nets paid off

and he scored a trademark quickfire 23 of 27 ball innings before being bowled.

Ollie Swain retired with a well-deserved 40 off 61 balls.

Will Davey feel cheaply for 2 with Haimi Wolfenden and Koby Ross seeing out the final overs getting Eu-

roa to 3/171 on day one.

Coach Robertson said it was “great to see Ollie Swain and Jack Walters get some runs coming into the finals.”

Euroa will bowl at Old Students next week looking to cement their place at the top of the ladder.

CFA teams continue to impress

THE Euroa CFA running teams had a huge weekend with the juniors heading across to Bendigo on Satu rday to compete against like-minded brigades.

The team was looking to recreate their strong performance in Melton last competition, which saw the juniors take home

three firsts, two seconds, two thirds and five top five placings.

The day’s events got off to a flying start with under 14 competitor Addison Godsmark winning his individual events.

The juniors then continued to dominate the day with the under 14s

taking out the aggregate award for the day and Euroa taking out second overall team for the day.

With most of the team new to the sport, the outstanding results are all the more impressive.

Coach Teagan Kubeil was full of praise for the juniors, saying “Addison, Matilda, Kobee,

Charlotte, Macey, Will, Tyler, Charlee, Maddison, Zahara and Mishca are all to be congratulated on their efforts.”

The juniors set the bar high for the seniors who headed to Bendigo the next day, hoping to achieve similar results.

The team was competing in a range or

dry and wet events.

The seniors were impressive, and most importantly got some experience under their belt while walking away with a first place award in the female hydrant race.

Teagan Kubeil continued her strong form in the hydrant race, winning again after

breaking a record the previous competition while also coaching the next generation with the juniors.

All teams will now rest up before heading to Tatura running track at the Tatura race course on February 26, inviting everyone to go along and support the local team.

GOING FOR GLORY: Euroa’s Junior CFA team continues to take home awards after having a successful weekend away at Bendigo. Pictured are (back row) Micha Boyd, Bailey Thomson, Addison Godsmark, Charlotte Davies, Maddison Mace and Zahara Johns; (front row) Matilda Kubeil, Macey Kubeil, Charlee Rieusset, Will Mann and Tyler Delahay, with Kobee Mann absent.