EG090425SamReiher

Blatant cash grab madness

By ANDY WILSON

AS details emerge of how Victoria’s new emergency services volunteer levy (ESVF) will impact primary producers, the state’s leading farmers group has demanded the government refer the new tax to a parliamentary inquiry.

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is calling on the Victorian Parliament to take immediate action and refer the ‘deeply awed’ ESVL bill to a parliamentary inquiry, as it faced debate in the upper house last week.

VFF president Brett Hosking slammed the new tax as a ‘blatant cash grab’ and said

a parliamentary inquiry was needed to ensure the community had a voice in the process.

“This bill was introduced without a single conversation with farmers or rural Victorians,” Mr Hosking said.

“Now the government wants to ram it through parliament with no scrutiny and no consultation.

“That is completely unacceptable.”

Mr Hosking said the vast majority of farmers would not be eligible for any exemption.

“The Upper House must step in and stop this reckless attack on the farming community,” he said.

■ Continued page 4

Hargrave.

PHOTO: Dale Mann

Federal budget relief ‘minimal’ for VET, strugglers

A LEADING charity and the country’s vocational education providers have both criticised last month’s federal budget for ‘not doing enough’ to help with strugglers and those seeking new careers.

St Vincent de Paul Society said the budget would deliver minimal nancial relief to the 3.3 million Australians currently known to be living in poverty.

Society president Mark Gaetani said the charity’s members had always maintained close contact with Australians struggling to meet daily living costs and that the situation of people doing it tough would ‘barely’ be a ected by the budget.

“The Society notes the Australian economy appears to have turned the corner, but a great many people have been le behind,” Mr Gaetani said.

“We have serious concerns that the proposed tax cuts do little to help people on low incomes or government payments who are struggling to meet their daily expenses, such as food and grocery items, rents, and school costs.

“Our members see people of all backgrounds who are striving to pay for basic essentials and who should not be le behind in

a wealthy country such as ours (nor) be reliant on the support of charities to get by.

“There is no sign that this budget o ers immediate nancial relief or inspires greater con dence for a brighter future.

“We welcome many of the budgetary measures announced but regret that various muchneeded reforms aimed at helping less well-o households were ignored.”

Mr Gaetani said the society supported public health measures such as extra funding to boost GP bulk billing, urgent care clinics and public hospitals, and caps on medicine prices.

“We also support increased funding for public education at all stages, from early years through schools to tertiary learning.”

A new report into vocational education released last Wednesday highlighted the growing challenges Australia’s VET providers faced in navigating increased regulatory burdens and embracing Arti cial Intelligence.

Despite sector concerns and the increasing operational costs, no incentives to cut red tape were provided in the budget.

The report from critical

RED TAPE MAKES VET DELIVERY

STANDING UP: ATHOL THOMAS FROM THE KIEWA VALLEY WILL BE ONE NATION’S CANDIDATE FOR THE 2025 FEDERAL ELECTION.

HARD: ReadyTech general manager of education Trevor Fairweather said VET providers found it di icult to balance quality training delivery with resourcing and compliance requirements.

“This year’s survey showed a clear shi in priorities, with compliance surging to the forefront,” Mr Fairweather said.

research group ReadyTech and titled ‘Voice of VET 2025’ said the regulatory burden placed on VET providers had been exacerbated by the introduction of new Registered Training Organisation (RTO) standards, set to come into e ect on 1 July.

ReadyTech general manager of education Trevor Fairweather said red tape was making it hard for VET providers to balance quality training delivery with resourcing and compliance requirements.

“This year’s survey showed a clear shi in priorities, with

compliance surging to the forefront,” Mr Fairweather said.

“It’s concerning (that) 34 per cent of respondents said meeting their regulatory obligations under the new RTO standards would be their biggest challenge.

“Compliance is expensive and, while VET providers are committed to meeting regulatory obligations, their key focus has to be on delivering high-quality educational outcomes.

“They are trying to achieve this against a backdrop of decreased funding, increasing costs, and less revenue.”

Lots of dollars but not much change

A LEADING rural doctor’s group has described the federal budget as a ‘headline grabber’ but said it ignores much-needed reform of health funding arrangements and lacked focus on measures needed to boost access to rural healthcare.

The Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA) said the government needed to go beyond a budget that looked ‘very appealing’ to voters in making healthcare more a ordable for some.

RDAA president Raymond Lewandowski said the budget’s health care reform lacked sustainability.

“There’s a lot that should have happened in this pre-election budget that hasn’t,” Dr Lewandowski said.

“There is no targeted investment to improve access to healthcare for those living in the bush.

“While cost of living relief in the healthcare sector is welcomed, it is not sustainable in the long-term.”

Dr Lewandowski said 100 per cent bulk billing for many rural general practices would be ‘virtually impossible’, with patients at these practices generally needing longer consultations due to more complex health needs and minor procedures o en provided in the practice.

“The expansion of the bulk billing incentive will mainly support general practices that have high throughput of patients through relatively short consultations, or services that already 100 per cent bulk bill, like many (First Nations) medical services, a funding boost much-needed and welcomed.

“This is why for patients in rural and remote Australia, billing

arrangements at their local practice will be unlikely to change signi cantly.

“While rural doctors would love for it to be true, government messaging that ‘you will only need your Medicare card when you go to the GP’ is unfortunately not going to be the case for many patients, particularly in the bush.”

Dr Lewandowski was also critical that only seven per cent of the

100 per cent bulk billing for many rural general practices would be ‘virtually impossible’, with patients at these practices generally needing longer consultations due to more complex health needs and minor procedures often provided in the practice.

- DR RAYMOND LEWANDOWSKI

One Nation candidate looking to beef up Indi agriculture

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

ATHOL Thomas is hoping the community can delve deeper into party policies throughout the federal election campaign as he vies for the Indi seat as One Nation candidate.

Mr Thomas comes to the candidacy from an agricultural and mechanical background and an urge to have his say in his community.

“I got involved because I figured you can sit back and get frustrated about where it’s all heading or you can get involved and try and make a difference at that level,” he said.

After growing up in Western Australia, Mr Thomas moved to the North East in 2007 and has lived in the Kiewa Valley since.

He worked for 10 years at the ski fields at Falls Creek and had experience working at the Bogong Hydro Power Station before becoming a heavy equipment mechanic in Wodonga.

Mr Thomas said energy, agriculture, housing and cost-of-living were in urgent need of being addressed in the electorate.

“There’s a lot of upset people within the electorate in regards to Battery Energy Solar Systems and solar farms being put in,” he said.

“Renewables certainly have a place but it’s probably not in prime agricultural farmland where we need to protect the food bowl.

“One Nation is fully supportive of farmers and irrigators and with the current Murray-Darling legislation and buyback scheme that has been supported by Helen Haines, it doesn’t assist farmers who rely on irrigated waters within the electorate.

“While the Liberals do their best to try and support that, they still run a similar agenda for net-zero and it’s not really supportive of the electorate whereas One Nation is.

“We need to drive more effort into agriculture, it’s an enormous part of this electorate.”

Mr Thomas said he has shown involvement in local issues, including Alpine Shire Council’s recent decision to not support a proposed Dederang Battery Energy Storage System.

“I was extremely happy the councillors listened to the voices of the people in the shire and stood to recommend that it does not go ahead in the shire, it’s certainly not the spot for it in my opinion,” he said.

“This valley has some of the best renewables already prior to solar and battery storage systems put in.”

One Nation tallied the fourth most primary votes in the 2022 election under candidate Beth Stevens, with 5.28 per cent.

Mr Thomas said he hoped to build on the momentum the party had established in the electorate.

government’s proposed 400 extra GP training positions were allocated to rural and remote communities.

“This is concerning, as RDAA has been asking for 200 extra Rural Generalist (RG) training positions to meet growing demand” he said.

“As an example, around an extra 90 junior doctors applied this year and last year to the Austral-

ian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) to undertake RG training. “That is 90 additional applications over and above the annual training positions that ACRRM is funded by the Government to provide.

“At least half of the additional positions for next year should be allocated immediately to RG training.

“It’s a no brainer.”

“Beth did an amazing job on a shoestring campaign budget last year (sic) and I’ll be running on the same thing,” he said.

“You certainly don’t have the financial backing some of the other candidates have obtained so it’s going to the case of getting my face out there and meeting the right people.

“I’ll see if we can increase One Nation’s reach and get people looking at alternate parties and policies, focusing on the great policies One Nation has.”

Serving Victoria for 80 years

By JASON HEFFERNAN CFA Chief O icer

LAST week saw the CFA mark 80 years as an organisation, protecting and serving Victorians through the commitment and dedication of volunteers over the decades.

The Volunteer Brigade movement has been around in Victoria for over 170 years, and the CFA was created following the ndings of the 1939 Black Friday disaster.

Our rich history mirrors that of the state, with the earliest brigades emerging on the gold elds in the 1850s.

This milestone encompasses an immeasurable legacy of sacri ce, commitment, and stories which go to the heart of the Australian psyche; exemplifying mateship and the principle of being there for others in their time of need.

The iconic “yellows” are instantly recognisable and synonymous with sel ess service and bravery in preparing and protecting communities across Victoria and beyond.

Our members and brigades can be found in every part of Victoria, providing a deep and unparalleled connection with their communities.

We are part of them, and they are part of us.

We have learned from the many devastating events throughout our history and con-

MUCH MORE THAN THAT: Fire prevention and suppression techniques have advanced significantly in the last decade. INSET: TRIBUTE TO THEIR DEDICATION: “Our members and brigades can be found in every part of Victoria, providing a deep and unparalleled connection with their communities. We are part of them, and they are part of us.”

tinue to evolve and improve our understanding of re, while ensuring that our frontline reghters and the community are as safe as possible as they carry out their work.

Fire prevention and suppression techniques have advanced signi cantly, boosted by the use of aerial appliances, telecommunications, improved weather modelling, and cutting-edge predictive re behaviour tools, as well as a focus on planned burning and other fuel reduction methods.

While many Victorians associate CFA with bush re, our members and the work they do is so much more than that.

We attended more than 37,000 incidents in the past year alone, in addition to the continuing

community preparedness activities which help communities stay safe.

The roles of our CFA members cover a broad range of skillsets; from specialist rope rescue, air observers, road crash rescue, mine rescue, alpine, forest and coastguard operations and frontline re ghting, structure re ghting to research, community education, and incident management.

Being in one of the most reprone areas in the world, CFA has been at the forefront of research and innovation to provide our members with the best possible equipment, training, tools, and resources for their critical mission.

CFA’s work depends on a whole-of-emergency sector response, and we thank our part-

ner agencies for supporting us in the work that we do.

We also acknowledge and appreciate the support of the many thousands of employers who understand that when a call comes in, a volunteer must turn out to protect their community.

In recent months, we have seen just how volatile a re season can be, with thousands of volunteers and sta responding across the state.

Victoria is a safer place thanks to the millions of hours of dedicated service provided by CFA volunteers and sta , and we are excited and inspired to continue our work for another 80 years.

Take a moment to thank CFA volunteers for their service by visiting cfa.vic.gov.au and leaving your thoughts.

Euroa SES members celebrate

VICSES 50-year anniversary

By LORETTA YORK

MORE emergency services celebrations were underway in Euroa on Sunday, 22 March as members from the Euroa SES unit gathered to celebrate the 50year anniversary of Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES).

The event was held at a the Pullman Melbourne at Albert Park and brought together dedicated volunteers from across the state to mark this remarkable achievement.

The evening was lled with stories of the countless ways in which VICSES has made a difference in the lives of Victorians over the past ve decades. The dinner provided a unique opportunity for members to reconnect with old friends, forge new bonds, and re ect on the evolution of the service.

Garry and Deb Dowell, along with Neville Lynch, Rosie Miller, and Keith and Liz Barns were among those who have seen the SES grow and adapt over the years.

Their experiences, ranging from emergency responses to community engagement initiatives and Driver Reviver, have been instrumental in shaping the Euroa SES unit into the strong and resilient team it is today. Their combined service of 201

years is a remarkable achievement, re ecting their unwavering commitment to serving the Euroa community through the SES.

As VICSES looks to the future, the contributions of members like those from Euroa SES will continue to inspire and motivate

new generations of volunteers.

The 50-year anniversary celebration was not only a tribute to the past but also a celebration of the enduring spirit of service that de nes the SES.

Euroa SES is a diverse and welcoming unit made up of members from all walks of life, ranging from 16-year-olds to retirement.

The members include individuals with young families, single people, couples, long-standing community members, and new residents of the area, all coming together with a shared commitment to helping others.

Some of our members are operational, responding to emergencies on the trucks, while others provide vital support through member services and community engagement. No matter what someone’s background or experience is, Euroa SES will welcome everyone who wants to make a di erence.

The Euroa SES team can be contacted at euroa@ses.vic.gov. au

OCTOBER

DOUBLE CENTURY: Garry and Deb Dowell, Neville Lynch, Rosie Miller, and Keith and Liz Barnes at the VICSES 50-year anniversary dinner in Melbourne. Together, they have dedicated an impressive 201 years of service to the SES.

Community Information

Waste & Recycling: Stay on Track!

A quick reminder—there will be no kerbside collections on Good Friday, 18 April, and transfer stations will be closed. On Saturday, 19 April, Friday collections (Areas A & B) will be picked up, with all other services running as usual.

Never Miss Bin Night Again!

Get the BinRight Strathbogie app—your one-stop shop for waste and recycling info! It helps you:

• Check bin collection schedules

• Get bin night reminders

• Sort waste correctly

New 4-Bin System –Sorting Made Simple!

All Victorian Households that receive waste and recycling services from local councils, will have access to the new standardised 4-stream system by 2027. This is mandatory requirement of the State Government and includes separate services for:

Weekly - Food & garden organics (Green)

Fortnightly - Mixed recycling (Yellow)

Fortnightly - General rubbish (Red)

Monthly - Glass recycling (Purple)

Delivery of purple bins to residents is scheduled from May – July 2025. Collections will commence in July 2025 For more information visit www. strathbogie.vic.gov.au/4-bins

Pet Registration Due 10 April

• Dog and cat registration renewal payments must be finalised by 10 April. Now is the time to ensure your pet’s details are current.

• To update your details, register a pet, or make a payment, contact our Customer Service Team on 1800 065 993 or email info@ strathbogie.vic.gov.au.

• For more information, visit www.strathbogie.vic.gov. au/community/pets-andlivestock/register-my-pet/.

The Euroa Three: A Celebration of Local Artistry

We’re proud to present The Euroa Three, an exciting new exhibition showcasing the work of three talented local artists: Deb Cavanagh (acrylic), Anna Mackrell (oil), and Bruce Hargrave (watercolour). Hosted at the Artbox in Euroa from 2 to 28 April, the exhibition

offers a unique opportunity to experience three distinct artistic styles, each capturing the beauty of our region in their own way. Visitors will also have the chance to meet the artists and gain insight into their creative process. Entry is free, so don’t miss this fantastic celebration of local talent!

Explore Euroa

Council is excited to invite residents to Explore Euroa Day on Sunday, 13 April 2025, from 10 AM – 2 PM at Seven Creeks Park, Euroa. This free, family-friendly festival is part of Council’s ongoing commitment to strengthening community connections and resilience following the 2022 floods. With live music, food vans, Easter egg hunts, superhero training for kids, face painting, and miniature railway rides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. More than 22 local groups and clubs will be showcased, providing a great opportunity to learn about local activities and get involved. We encourage everyone to come along, celebrate our incredible community, and enjoy a fantastic day out! This event is funded by the Community Recovery Hub. The Community Recovery Hub is jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Careers at Strathbogie

Media and Communications

Business Partner

• Full or part time, permanent opportunity

• Band 6 - $84,113 per annum

• Applications close 9am, Monday 14 April 2025

Manager - Planning & Investment

• Full time, permanent opportunity

• SEO Contract

• Applications close 5pm, Monday 21 April 2025

Visit www.strathbogie.vic. gov.au/careers to find out more and apply today.

Ordinary Council Meeting

The April Ordinary Council Meeting will commence at 4pm on Tuesday 15 April 2025. The community are invited to attend the Euroa Community Conference Centre or to view the meeting online via the livestream link on the Council website at https://www.strathbogie. vic.gov.au/meetings/

1800 065 993 www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au info@strathbogie.vic.gov.au

Follow us for regular updates @strathbogieshire

Bill shelved as parliament rises

By ANDY WILSON

DEBATE on the ESVF bill was adjourned at the end of the upper house’s nal sitting day before parliament’s ve-week recess, having faced widespread criticism from the opposition and cross benches.

The bill was passed in the lower house on 20 March.

Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad slammed the bill, saying it was ‘mutton dressed up as lamb’.

“The government wants everyone to think it is to support our emergency service volunteers, but it is just another tax,” Ms Broad said.

“Farmers are facing escalating costs already, very dry conditions, particularly in northern Victoria, and this is the last thing they want to see on the horizon.”

Liberal leader in the Legislative Council David Davis said the bill was a ‘big new’ tax introduced by a government which had run out of money.

“We strongly support our emergency services, we strongly believe they should be funded properly,” Mr Davis said.

“But the state government should have been making proper provision for them all the way through.”

Amid calls for a parliamentary inquiry into the bill, Mr Davis outlined three amendments proposed by the opposition, the rst being a demand to spend the money raised only on those agencies funded under the current legislation and the SES.

The opposition also wants assurances the levy would not fund any other public service and that it is subjected to better reporting.

“We want to see what is collected from farming land, what is collected from housing and what is collected from industrial land,” Mr Davis said.

“We also want to know how much is collected out of the particular municipalities; and the amounts distributed to each funding recipi-

ent from the revenue raised from the levy in the nancial year.

“We want to see where the money comes from and where the money goes.

“We are happy to work to scope those.”

VFF president Brett Hosking said the peak farming group was also welcome to consultation.

“Our message to the government couldn’t be clearer,” Mr Hosking said.

“Talk to us, consult with us and work collaboratively to get ideas that actually work.

“Don’t risk taking a sledgehammer to the livelihoods of hard-working Victorian famers.”

One Nation member for Northern Victoria Mrs RikkiLee Tyrrell told The Euroa Gazette she had received an ‘enormous amount’ of feedback from farmers, CFA volunteers, and councils.

She said it was time for Premier Jacinta Allan to consult with Victorians on the levy.

“Listen to your constituents - you represent these people,” Mrs Tyrrell said.

“You are supposed to be doing the best by them, and slugging them with tax a er tax is not a way to go about it.”

Mrs Tyrrell urged the government to consult more

with key stakeholders.

“The previous emergency services levy in 2013 was done with a lot of consultation, whereas this one has just been rushed through, so we have a lot of very concerned stakeholders that have not been heard.

“Particularly our primary producers - this is a lot for them to have to pay.

“And landlords have just been hit with land taxes and now they have potentially copped this in the future as well.”

Mrs Tyrrell said the government needed to be ‘much smarter’ about how to reverse the state’s economy.

“Taxing the people in this state more and more is no way to go about it,” she said.

“The state is not going broke.

“We are broke - we are there, baby.”

Mrs Tyrrell said she was also ‘suspicious’ about the lack of input from the Greens.

“When a government shelves something like this, it indicates they know they have not yet got the support they need (to pass it).

“And it’s interesting that the Greens are nowhere to be seen.

“It’s so suspicious they are absent, especially as they are so adamant about housing.”

Blatant cash grab madness

■ From front page

“The median fire services levy for primary producers will skyrocket by 109 per cent from $621 to $1299 per assessment, with some landholders facing hikes in the tens of thousands of dollars.

“If this Bill is not sent to a formal inquiry for proper review, it will be an absolute betrayal of rural Victoria.”

Mr Hosking was also critical that residential property owners would see an increase of only 32 per cent.

“This government is shifting the cost burden onto those who can least afford it - how is that fair?

“Farmers will be forced to absorb yet another cost or try and find a way to pass it through the supply chain, adding to the family grocery bills.”

A government spokesperson

said in a statement that the increase to the average farm would be around $13 per week ($676 per year) and would deliver more funding, resources and equipment for CFA and SES volunteers.

“We will always back our hard-working farmers - that’s why we’ve slashed payroll tax for primary producers and have exempted them from land tax,”

the spokesperson said.

“The ESVF is about making sure our emergency services have the sustainable funding and equipment they need to keep Victorians safe and to recover from natural disasters which so often impact farmers and their properties”

The statement said the treasurer had met with regional councils about the implementation of the ESVF and that the

government would continue to work closely with them.

It also said the burden of administration would be taken off councils, by administering the rebate for eligible CFA and VICSES members and providing additional funding to support councils in the fund’s implementation.

Mr Hosking said the VFF would not let up on its opposition to the bill and highlighted the ‘very real’ destruction it would cause.

“Victorian farmers are already doing it tough - this year we have been battling drought, bushfires, and skyrocketing expenses.

“This tax hike will push many businesses to the wall.

“The government must stop this madness immediately.”

WE ARE BROKE, BABY: Mrs Tyrrell said the government needed to be much smarter about recovering the state’s economy. “Taxing the people in this state more and more is no way to go about it,” she said.

PHOTO: Andy Wilson

Brigade honoured at Riggs Creek

By ANDY WILSON

COUNTLESS hours behind the scenes made for a very rewarding a ernoon at the Riggs Creek Fire Station on Sunday, 30 March with the unveiling of three honour boards to recognise the almost 120-year history of the brigade.

Over 60 people attended the event hosted by CFA Strathbogie catchment ofcer Commander Pete Dedman, ably assisted by current Captain Keith Dean.

Some guests travelled from as far as Tottenham and Parkes in NSW, including members from the Todd family to see Tommy Todd honoured for being captain,

2nd lieutenant and secretary/ treasurer of the brigade for a number of years.

The day celebrated past and present members for their service to the brigade and the community and depicted the Bush Fire Brigade era (1906-1938), unveiled by current members who are the direct descendants of some of the founding members, and the CFA era (1939 to present), unveiled by past captains and the present captain.

A number of service awards were also presented to various members who totalled between them 410 years of combined community service.

The gathering had read to

Looking back across 119 years

them excerpts from The Euroa Advertiser of 30 November, 1906 which described the brigade’s formation and early purchases.

“The formation of a bush re-brigade has been successful, only one or two persons within the area respectfully declining to support the movement.

Three out ts have been ordered, o cers appointed, and every preparation is being made for any emergency.

As soon as su cient funds have been collected it is proposed to have several more re extinguishing pumps distributed over the area.”

Founding members included Messrs Harding, Clement, Dean, McBurney, Lomer, and Ralston – many of whom have descendants who are current members of the brigade.

The brigade found itself in action within the month, attending a building re which extended to ‘an acre or so’ of grassland - and not without incident.

“A contingent of the newly formed brigade with full equipment of plant was hastening to the scene when the horse, unaccustomed to spring cart work – took fright and got away, capsizing tank and men.

The cart was considerably damaged, but men and brigade plant were not much the worse for their mishap.”

A further re on 27 January 1907 rounded o the summer for the brigade as it dealt with a re at Moglonemby which burnt grassland and ‘about 20 acres’ of a standing crop.

The re was attributed to a smoker’s pipe, and windy conditions saw the re cross the road four times but was still contained.

Current Riggs Creek Fire Brigade secretary-treasurer Lyndal Dean said the reception of the event was excellent.

“The atmosphere was one

of anticipation by many, particularly from those who’d travelled over 600km to be at the event and from brigade and community members who had no idea what the boards would look like or depict,” Ms Dean said.

“There was particularly pleasing feedback on the quality of the actual boards and sign-writing.

“Some old stories were then reminisced, about events in the past that the re brigade members attended.

“And previous residents of the district who attended had a great time catching up with their old neighbours.”

The entire project was funded by the brigade and community.

FOUR CENTURIES BETWEEN THEM: A number of service awards were presented on the day to various members, totalling a combined community service of 410 years and included Ian Ralston, Alex Dean, Ross McBurney, Bec Dean, Ian Clayton, David Sessions, Rob Heal, and Ray Kubeil.

PHOTO: Lyndal Dean

Rainfall

(Euroa Township)

There has been no rainfall in the week up to Tuesday.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Profligacy

PREMIER Allan and her cronies haven’t managed well the monies of the state; excessive spending (like before) will only make the people poor at this rate, and, with our taxes ever higher, we’ll all be landed in the mire: what a fate!

With mounting debt and coffers bare, should we not vote them all out, ere it’s too late?

Craig Penny, Terip Terip

Tax laid bare

45-47

General

THE human impact of the Allan Labor Government’s 60th new tax was laid bare on national TV and it was a distressing watch.

Sixth generation farmer Rob Armstrong put his plight bluntly: “We’ve had enough, we’ve had enough of hurting

… and it’s got to stop”. Rob fought back tears on Channel 10’s The Project as he spoke of the looming emergency services tax grab.

working volunteers on a brilliant tennis tournament held on the long weekend of March 2025.

John Pearson, Euroa

minimalist brief to achieve and deliver what ought to have been a sensible, tree-inclusive outcome.

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

Farmers like Rob face a dramatic 189 per cent increase on their contribution to the emergency services tax.

The new tax will rip $2.1 billion more a year from Victorians, much of it from regional communities, and most will go towards propping up back-room sta in the city, by-passing the frontline heroes who keep us safe.

Hardworking Victorians battling the cost-of-living crisis need support, not another tax.

The Nationals will continue to ght it.

Danny O’Brien MP, Leader of The Nationals, Shadow Minister for Emergency Services

Lawn tennis praise continues

I WOULD like to congratulate the Euroa Lawn Tennis Club committee and their hard-

Reading the tree-leaves

EUROA, reinforced by its cheery residents and shop owners, combined with its tree-lined streets and roads, con rms our recent choice of township in which to reside and contribute as new residents in a warm and welcoming community.

All appears so well.

However, an abrupt hiccup in our early experience of community life is the fact that one of the welcoming entrance statements into the township, the Alexander Road’s avenue of mature London plane trees and elm trees, is destined shortly for the chop!

What?!

It appears design engineers, landscape architects, civil contractors, and financial advisors associated with planning Euroa’s very welcome and much-needed railway precinct upgrade and new underpass must have been given a

The archaic business-as-usual approach, where trees are ignored as vital community assets and seen as the line of least resistance, is to be deplored.

How must the adjacent residents feel about the impending and immediate drop in their property values, once those vital street trees are removed?

Where are the plans to incorporate the existing trees?

Or worst-case scenario, where is Inland Rail’s commitment to tree replacement and incorporation into the nished product?

It seems a fait accompli design has ignored council and community consultation in this regard.

It’s just not that di cult to consider and build in coste ective solutions, to preserve or reinstate trees as critical infrastructure for such a major project, unless it’s part of a limited, ltered, and awed design brief.

Clearly we didn’t read the treeleaves when settling into Euroa. Glenn & Vicki Williams, Euroa (new residents)

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

Post: Euroa Gazette AP Gardner Building 45 - 47 Railway Street Euroa, VIC,

CARAVAN PARK FULLY BOOKED FOR CARRIAGE NATIONALS

By ANDY WILSON

THE Longwood Carriage Driving Club is reminding locals that a national horse-andcarriage championship event is coming to Longwood for the Easter long weekend on 18-21 April.

The National CDE Championships will be based at the Longwood Recreation Reserve. CDEs (combined driving events) are competitions in carriage driving that test driver skill and team performance in the three ‘phases’ of dressage, marathon, and cones.

The club has fully booked the entire caravan park for the long weekend.

Although the event is open to the public, council requirements regarding risk management mean that no general public camping will be available outside of the event’s competitors and guests.

Six decades of history for history’s sake

By CATHY BELL

THE Euroa Historical & Genealogical Society celebrated its 60th anniversary on Sunday, 23 March with an a ernoon tea at the Euroa Farmers Arms Hotel Museum.

Special guests included the society’s four life members.

Margaret Brodie reminisced about her early life in Longwood and her time with the museum, Margaret Brook told of the early days of the museum, and Roma Joyce shared memories of the effects of the 1993 ood.

Linsey Siede represented his late mother Betty, who had also devoted many volunteer years to the society and the museum.

Original member of the society Ewen Cameron was also in attendance.

Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland and Strathbogie Shire Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy congratulated the society on its 60 years of volunteer service to the community to ensure that the history of Euroa and the sur-

HAPPY SIXTY YEARS OF PRESERVING OUR HISTORY: Margaret Brook, Roma Joyce, Margaret Brody, and Linsey Siede cut the Anniversary cake to celebrate six decades of Euroa’s wellrenowned historical society.

rounding districts was available to the public through the exhibits, artifacts, maps, digital and hard copy documents, booklets and photos located at both the museum and online. The society expressed its grati-

tude to the two key guests for their assistance and continued support into the future. They and other guests acknowledged the di culties many volunteer organisations have with an ageing membership and the challenges to increasing membership to secure the future of the museum.

Key to this was the work done by the society with family research and services for other queries.

The meeting concluded with the cutting of an Anniversary cake and planting of a commemorative tree with a plaque.

The Euroa & Genealogical Society encourages anyone who may like to become a volunteer to visit the museum on any Wednesday or Sunday between 1-4pm.

Edward Higgins

THE DRIVE TO WIN: The National CDE Championships are coming to Longwood on the Easter long weekend. PHOTO: Di Boardman

Euroa trio’s turn at the ‘box

Three classic painting styles sideby-side

By ANDY WILSON

STRATHBOGIE Shire’s travelling compact art gallery ARTBOX has entered its second month in Euroa by hosting the works of a triumvirate of local artists, each with their own unique style.

‘The Euroa Three’ opened at the converted shipping container in Binney Street on Sunday a ernoon at a reception attended by over 50 people, some of whom had travelled from Adelaide and Tasmania for the event.

The Euroa Three showcases the gurative works of Deb Cavanagh (with acrylic), Anna Mackrell (oil), and Bruce Hargrave (watercolour).

The exhibition gives a unique opportunity to experience the three distinct media o ering a di erent perspective on the beauty of the local area.

Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy said locals and visitors could immerse themselves in the artistic interpretations of stunning local landscapes.

“Each artist brings a unique perspective and medium, making this exhibition a truly engaging experience,”

ACRYLLIC: One of Deb Cavanagh’s paintings from her selection of local landscapes, birds, botanicals, and even much-loved pets.

Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.

“We are delighted to support and showcase such remarkable local talent.”

Strathbogie-raised and internationally-trained Anna Mackrell produces expressive oil paintings and drawings that capture the essence of the region’s landscapes and ora.

Deb Cavanagh has brought her experiences travelling in

northern and central Australia to focus on the transitions of Taungurung Country and Melbourne.

Her works depict local landscapes, birds, botanicals, and even much-loved pets.

“There’s really no need to venture far; everything unfolds right on my doorstep,” Ms Cavanagh said.

Watercolourist Bruce Har-

grave said he had an appreciation for the ‘spontaneity’ of watercolour, in which he captures the ever-changing beauty of Euroa and Melbourne’s Albert Park.

“Watercolour is always a challenge to get it to work, and you are not always happy with the outcome, not always,” Mr Hargrave said.

“In fact you can sometimes see some of my (rejected)

ones on the back.

“But it is the excitement of watercolour which I love.”

Mr Hargrave praised the work of his co-exhibitors.

“It’s great to be in the company of Deb and Anna; they are both very skilled and committed painters I think.”

He also thanked the generosity of the ARTBOX site’s benefactor.

“It is fantastic of Bill Stubbs

to make this block of land available for the gallery,” he said.

“The community’s use of it obviously shows a very wonderful and generous spirit of him.

“The shire has taken this much further by moving the ARTBOX everywhere, which gives everybody the opportunity of seeing nice things.”

Local muralist and soonto-be artist-in-residence at a North Carolina railway museum Tim Bowtell opened the exhibition.

Mr Bowtell is known for his expertise in designing and painting historical and cultural murals on silos statewide.

Mr Hargrave said Mr Bowtell was a modern-day Michelangelo.

“But he doesn’t lie on his back all day painting the Sistine Chapel,” Mr Hargrave said.

“He’s up on a cherry picker in the middle of winter with a spray can - we were really lucky to get Tim to come over.”

At least one of the artists will be in attendance each day during April, providing visitors with an opportunity to engage with the creative minds behind the works.

The ARTBOX will remain in Euroa until the start of June before moving further around Strathbogie Shire, with a new artist to exhibit for the month of May.

THREE MONTHS IN TOWN: ARTBOX will spend all of Autumn in Euroa, changing its guest artists with each month.

CAVANAGH

CROWD WELCOME: Fi y people attended the ARTBOX opening on Sunday which was hosted by Tim Bowtell. PHOTOS: Dale Mann

Stay within nature’s limits: ACF

THE Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) has welcomed the Albanese government’s election commitment to deliver a national food strategy by establishing a National Food Council and says any plan must deliver food systems that work for people, nature, and the climate.

ACF business and nature lead Nathaniel Pelle said such a strategy would keep family farms viable and operate within nature’s limits.

“A national food strategy is needed so future generations of Australians have access to food that is a ordable and nutritious,” Mr Pelle said.

“Any national strategy should prioritise ways to properly reward famers who

protect and restore nature on their farms while producing food.”

ACF said the proposed National Food Council should include scientists’ and community stakeholder perspectives and must consider how agriculture and nature can work together.

“The CSIRO has found Australia will need to transform its farming systems if it is to be sustainable, productive, and pro table, staying within nature’s limits.

“Protecting nature on farmland is good for the environment and farmers’ hip pockets,” Mr Pelle said.

“Farmers manage more than half of the Australian land mass, meaning no sector has a bigger opportunity than producers to contribute

to the mission to halt and reverse biodiversity destruction.

“Every sector of the economy is dependent on nature to varying degrees and in different ways, but no industry is more dependent on nature being in good health than agriculture.”

Mr Pelle said that successive State of the Environment reports had documented the decline of nature in Australia on ‘almost every’ measure and that industrial agriculture had been a major contributor.

“(That) is bad news for farmers,” he said.

“Most farmers recognise the value of nature to the success of their farms, but the state of agriculture in Australia is not sustainable.”

state of agriculture in Australia is not sustainable.”

Bird flu restrictions ease thanks to vigilence

RESTRICTIONS on poultry owners near the H7N8 avian in uenza (bird u) outbreak near Euroa have been reduced, following no new detections since 24 February 2025.

In a statement on Monday, 31 March, AgVic said the current control area was now reduced to about 40km from east to west and 30km from north to south and still included Euroa and Longwood.

Mandatory movement controls are no longer in place for Violet Town, Ru y, Avenel, and Strathbogie, as well as for game bird hunters and hunting activities in those areas.

The housing requirement for premises with 50 or more birds in the former restricted area is now also li ed, with the voluntary housing of birds still encouraged.

The changes come a er no further disease had been detected by the intensive surveillance activities that have been undertaken since Monday, 24 February.

AgVic said good progress had been made on the cleaning and decontamination of a ected properties and that restrictions will be kept under review as authorities continue to monitor for disease, ex-

ecute decontamination, and eradicate the outbreak.

Victoria’s acting chief veterinary o cer Cameron Bell commended industry and the community for their cooperation to date.

“This easing of restrictions is thanks to the cooperation and hard work that industry, community, and the impacted property owners have contributed since the rst detection in early February,” Dr Bell said.

“Our staff remain on the ground, working to clean and decontaminate affected properties, and we appreciate (the) on-

going support as this continues.”

Restrictions remain on the movement of birds, poultry products (including eggs and manure), equipment, and vehicles on or o properties in the new control and restricted areas.

Game bird hunting is also not permitted in the control and restricted areas.

AgVic has about 110 sta deployed to the area each day, and over 9000 bird samples have been collected and tested since 8 February 2025.

To prevent and eliminate bios-

ecurity threats, every producer should have an up-to-date farm biosecurity plan and be able to recognise signs of diseases that could impact their animals.

Poultry farmers and backyard ock and bird owners are urged to report any cases of unexplained bird deaths to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888, or to a local vet.

More information on the restrictions is available at agriculture.vic. gov.au/avianin uenza or by calling the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226

SCIENCE INPUT A MUST: ACF’s Nathaniel Pelle said a national food council was needed for sustainable agriculture. “Most farmers recognise the value of nature to the success of their farms, but the

Euroa shines on Parliament lawns

THE second annual Euroa Electorate Bowls Competition at the Parliament of Victoria was a resounding success, showcasing an exceptional display of skill, camaraderie, and sportsmanship among participants from right across the Euroa electorate.

Thirty-three players representing 12 clubs from all over the region competed for the title of electorate champions on the state’s oldest greens, located at

the Parliament of Victoria.

Local clubs including Avenel, Seymour, Seymour, Benalla, Violet Town, Murchison, Rushworth, Nagambie, Swanpool, Heathcote, Kilmore, and Euroa were represented as bowlers competed over two games of eight ends.

Nationals member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland, who organised the event with Heathcote’s Peter Cunningham, said the day was a

fantastic occasion for all who participated.

“I want to thank all the bowlers who participated in an extremely successful tournament,” Ms Cleeland said.

“This tournament was a fun opportunity for camaraderie and friendly competition, with clubs joining together from all throughout the region.

“It was important to me to welcome as many people as possible to

Euroa works and temporary road closures continue

Inland Rail’s construction partner

John Holland is undertaking works in Euroa to upgrade the detour route to support safe tra c movement, ahead of the Anderson Street bridge closure. Works are taking place in several stages to minimise disruptions.

Achieved so far

Birkett Street works between Fancourt Street and Scott Street have been completed and the Birkett Street level crossing has been widened with new rail and sleepers installed and new boom gates and ashing lights tted. Works have also progressed along sections of Brock and Campbell streets.

What to expect

Works will continue in April and are expected to be completed by May, subject to weather and other factors. These works require the temporary closure of the Birkett Street level crossing, road closures along sections of Birkett, Brock and Campbell streets, and singlelane shuttle ow tra c at the Brock and Anderson streets intersection. The over the railway detour will be via the Anderson Street bridge overpass.

Works will include road widening, asphalting and line marking, drainage, street lighting, signage and barrier installation, minor footpath upgrades and approved tree and vegetation removal.

Local detours, tra c management and reduced speeds will be in place. Residential access will be facilitated.

Hours of works

• 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday

• 7am to 1pm, Saturdays

For any concerns or enquiries phone 1800 732 761 or email inlandrailvic@ inlandrail.com.au, or visit our shopfront at 46-50 Binney Street, Tuesdays from 10am to 2pm.

Scan to view latest works noti cations

the Parliament of Victoria to experience the wonder of such an historic place and to understand the impact that decisions made here have on our community.

“I look forward to continuing to share the joy of bowls and fostering connections within the bowls community as we prepare for another exciting event next year.”

Bowlers were taken on an enlightening tour of Parliament House, met MPs from across the

state, and had a delightful lunch on the Parliament’s terrace as part of their relaxed, fun-filled day.

The winning team of Jamie Greasley, Shane Drysdale, and Charmaine Reid came from Euroa Bowls Club.

Runners up were Margaret Locke, Alison Ridley, and Jenny Kreemers of Seymour Bowling Club.

Plans are already underway for another exciting event in 2026.

Tra c changes along Birkett, Brock, Campbell and Anderson streets, with local access only.

UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY: Twelve clubs from all over the Euroa region competed for the title of electorate champions on the state’s oldest greens at Parliament House.

Tipoffs best weapon for fighting illegal tobacco: ATO

REGIONAL and rural communities are asked to be on the lookout for activities that may point to illicit tobacco production.

A statement from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) on Tuesday, 1 April said that illegal tobacco operations were not run by genuine farmers, but by organised crime syndicates.

“These activities divert vital funds from the community and place them into the hands of criminals, who use the profits to fund other serious crimes,” the statement said.

“By staying informed and vigilant, everyone can play their part in keeping the community safe and ensuring a level playing field for legitimate businesses.”

Tobacco growing and production of related products was outlawed nationwide in 2016.

A recent raid at a property in rural Victoria, prompted by a community tip-off, led to the seizure and destruction of over 16 tons of illicit tobacco.

The amount seized had an estimated excise value of nearly $35 million.

“This operation, which targeted an organised crime syndicate, highlights the crucial role that community members play in combating illegal tobacco activities.

“Community tip-offs are one of our best sources of information.”

April and May are the peak growing times for tobacco plants and the ATO is urging the community to be aware of signs that illicit tobacco is being grown, and report it online at www.ato.gov.au/tipoff or by phoning 1800 060 062.

VIGILANCE AND AWARENESS:

A community tipo led to a recent raid at a property in rural Victoria resulting in the seizure and destruction of over 16 tons of illicit tobacco.

HOW TO SPOT A TOBACCO PLANT

Height: A tobacco plant typically stands tall at around 2.5m.

Leaves and resemblance: Look for large, green leaves that might remind you of kale, cabbage, or even corn.

Flowers: Tobacco plants feature long, trumpet-shaped flowers that are pinkishwhite.

HOW TO SPOT ILLICIT TOBACCO ACTIVITY

Construction activities along creeks and rivers on private and public land.

Unexplained and potentially unlawful use of water resources.

Vans without markings constantly being loaded with cardboard boxes, potentially at odd hours of the day and night.

Excessive security measures such as cameras, locks or guards, in seemingly ordinary farms or shops.

The sound of machinery running overnight.

ALL OVER IN UNDER THREE DAYS: The 60-hour occupation of the Birkett Street level crossing saw the refurbishment of the intersection completed in good time.

Inland Rail update after successful ‘occupation’

ENGINEERING com-

pany John Holland will continue upgrading the Anderson Street bridge detour route and site establishment works in Euroa during April, a er which the Anderson Street bridge will be closed.

The detour is being undertaken in stages to minimise the impacts on local residents and road users.

A new project site on Elliot Street to store plant and materials will be established within the railway yard and on the western side of Elliot Street.

Works will include building and compressing a hardstand, installing temporary fencing, utility connection, and approved vegetation removal.

Site investigations will be

made to determine underground conditions and the location of utility services which are required to nalise designs

These may occur at various locations near the Anderson Street bridge and around the station precinct area.

Works can be cancelled at short notice depending on weather and other factors and will be rescheduled in accordance.

For any concerns, enquiries, or to book an appointment to talk to a John Holland team member, phone 1800 732 761 or email inlandrailvic@ inlandrail.com.au

Inland Rail’s shopfront is open Tuesdays between 10am and 2pm at 46-50 Binney Street.

The following upgrades will be made along sections of Birkett, Brock, Campbell, and Anderson streets, including the level crossing on Birkett Street:

 Road widening, asphalting, and line marking

 Drainage

 Service proving and protection works

 Approved tree and vegetation removal

 Signage and barrier installation

 Minor footpath upgrades

 Street lighting installation and relocation.

What can I expect?

 Works 7am-6pm Monday to Friday and 7am-1pm Saturdays

 Staged road closures along Birkett, Brock, and Campbell Streets during works, with traffic management in place - please observe all instructions

 Workers using machinery, equipment, hand tools and service vehicles

 Nearby residents may experience some noise and vibration and notice additional construction workers and vehicles in the area

 John Holland will engage directly with impacted residents to discuss any property access interruptions.

How impacts are being managed

 Traffic management and reduced speeds

 Water carts to minimise dust

 All areas will be inspected by a qualified wildlife handler for wildlife before tree removal works commence; any encountered fauna will result in works ceasing until the wildlife handler has safely relocated the animal.

Machinery used:

Non-destructive digging truck, crane, excavators, trucks, earthmoving plant, compaction roller, wood chipper, concrete trucks, workers using hand tools /survey equipment, traffic management equipment / signage

Local people, local places

Haines announces policies to increase childcare places in Indi

INDEPENDENT federal MP for Indi Helen Haines is proposing a plan to create hundreds of new childcare places and increase capacity in Indi by up to 10 per cent.

Dr Haines this week launched two early childhood education and care policies aimed at increasing childcare availability in regional areas and ensuring the long-term sustainability of before and a er school care services.

“In Indi, there are three children for every childcare place,” she said.

“When there aren’t enough childcare places, children miss out on all the bene ts of childcare, and parents are unable to work to their full capacity.

“Families in regional areas face childcare shortages at more than twice the rate of families in major cities.

“I’ve been speaking with parents, carers, childcare operators and industry representatives about the changes they want to improve supply of childcare.”

Dr Haines said her plan could increase the number of childcare places in Indi by up to 10 per cent – potentially creating hundreds of new childcare places.

The government’s $1 billion Building Early Education Fund includes a $500 million capital grants stream for early childhood education and care providers to build new ser-

vices and increase capacity of existing services.

The fund will target priority and under-served markets including regional locations and the outer suburbs.

Dr Haines’ Early Education Plan proposes the capital grants stream be increased from $500 million to $1 billion, bringing the total value of the Building Early Education Fund to $1.5 billion.

The second policy of Dr Haines’ early childhood platform follows her work last year to save ve outside school hours care services from potential closure a er their funding was unexpectedly cut.

While she worked with the

Minister for Early Childhood Education to secure lifeline funding for the services as an interim solution, Dr Haines said the threat of losing funding showed changes are needed for the Community Childcare Fund to allocate funding based on need instead of a competitive grant process.

“Right now, funding isn’t based on demand – but it should be,” she said.

“If a childcare provider is the only one in a town or region and needs extra support, they should get it.”

Dr Haines’ plan would change the Community Child Care Fund from a competitive grant footing to one based on need.

Half-price house batteries: don’t forget farmers

A NEW campaign wanting a rebate to halve the price of any household battery has been welcomed by a peak agriculture environmental group that wants the deal extended to include farms.

Farmers for Climate Action (FCA), representing more than 8400 members, has welcomed a new campaign asking for half-price household batteries, and called for the

plan to be o ered to farmers.

The campaign ‘It’s time to back batteries’ was launched by the Clean Energy Council on Tuesday, 18 March and promotes ‘huge’ electricity bill savings for owners of household batteries to help ease the cost of living and increase energy independence.

The campaign calls for a $6500 rebate, which is about half the investment required

for a good-sized home battery.

FCA spokesperson and farmer Peter Holding said the campaign aligns with the position FCA has been advocating for farmers.

“Households are facing increases in the cost of living, and farmers are shouldering increases in the cost of growing our food,” Mr Holding said.

“Don’t forget farmers - let’s

back half-price batteries for farms too.

“We know rebates are more e ective than no-interest loans - the data from Victoria and South Australia is very clear (on this).”

Mr Holding said it took about ten years for a battery to pay for itself through any energy bill savings it generated and said he wanted that payback period to be halved so more farmers

will invest in them.

“Farmers can host bigger batteries which have a bigger bene t to the grid and to local energy security.

“Farm batteries help reduce farm costs, and that can put downward pressure on food prices.

“Let’s o er some respite, so that farmers don’t fall into further nancial stress.”

The FCA is also seeking as part of its election wish

list, for farmers to be able to use clean energy generated on one of their properties on a di erent property they owned.(Currently, farmers are limited to use energy only at the property it was generated on.)

The organisation also seeks much-needed upgrades to local poles and wires to allow country communities to participate in the nation’s energy shi .

EXPLORE EUROA DAY COMMUNITY CELEBRATION

Community groups and clubs showcase

Miniatrure Railway

Superhero training and Easter egg hunts

MORE STILL NEEDED: Indi MP Helen Haines with Claire Northfield and baby Hazel announcing the Independent’s childcare policies.

AgVic Animal welfare under the spotlight

OWNERS or persons in charge of livestock have a responsibility for ensuring the health and welfare needs of their livestock and animals are met.

AgVic program manager of livestock and welfare compliance Veronica Campbell said this includes providing animals with proper and su cient food, ensuring sick or injured animals are provided with appropriate attention or treatment, and that basic husbandry practices such as shearing are carried out.

AgVic o cers who are authorised under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 have a number of tools available under the act, including legal notices issued to owners or persons in charge of livestock, to direct them to cease committing an o ence or to ensure an o ence is not committed.

AgVic has recently conducted three seizures of livestock in a three-month period.

“In serious cases where the animals are at risk of distress and disablement and the owner or person in charge has failed to comply with directives, Agriculture Victoria can undertake a seizure of the a ected animals, years.

“In January 2025, ytwo cattle were seized from a property in Murrayville due to a failure to provide proper and su cient feed to the cattle, resulting in a

Ms Campbell said the matters relating to the recently seized livestock were notnalised due to their serious nature.

“While we know the majority of farmers are doing the right thing, livestock produc-

Most road deaths happen close to home: TAC

NEW research reveals that most deaths on regional Victorian roads over the past five years involved local residents, showing that the unexpected can happen even on the most familiar roads.

Transport Accident Commission (TAC) analysis of road fatalities from 2020 to 2024 showed that more than 70 per cent of people killed on country roads died within a 30km radius of their home address.

The research follows a tragic start to the year on Victoria’s roads, with 74 lives lost compared with 75 at the same time last year.

January this year was the deadliest month on Victoria’s roads since March 2008, and the worst start to a year since 2001.

The majority of fatalities so far this year have also happened on regional roads where there have been 43 lives lost, compared with 31 in metropolitan Melbourne.

most of which had low traffic volumes and gravel shoulders and involved either a vehicle running off the road or into an oncoming vehicle or crashing at an intersection.

The findings have prompted the TAC to remind drivers to slow down on low-volume, highspeed country roads, come to a complete stop at intersections and ensure they are distraction free - even on roads they know like the ‘back of their hand’. With travel on regional roads set to increase over the coming school holidays and Easter long weekend, the TAC will also be focusing on the dangers of tired driving.

The TAC’s fatigue campaign, ‘Driving tired? Wake up to yourself’ will be running across print, broadcast, digital, and outdoor channels throughout the holiday period.

Transport Accident Commission CEO Tracey Slatter said that the ‘evidence was clear’.

ate action to prevent and address animal welfare issues can face regulatory action, including prosecution for of-

Anyone wishing to make a speci c complaint regarding livestock welfare can contact AgVic on 136 186 or aw.complaint@agriculture. vic.gov.au

seasonal and drought support, visit agriculture.vic. gov.au/dryseasons

In regional areas, road users typically travel longer distances in high-speed zones, and the consequences are more severe if something goes wrong.

Importantly, the new TAC data analysis dispels the myth that people dying in fatal crashes in regional Victoria are predominantly visitors or people unfamiliar with the roads they’re traveling on – just four per cent of deaths were people

“Crashes often happen close to home, on familiar roads that we know like the back our hand,” Ms Slatter said.

“Our new insights reinforce the need for us all to be aware of risks on local roads, not to be complacent, and to give our undivided attention to driving until we reach our destination safely.

“We can all a play in part in keeping ourselves and others

$399m investment in dairy industry sought

AUSTRALIA’S peak dairy farming body is calling on both sides of government to invest in safeguarding the dairy industry’s future.

With Australia’s dairy industry at a critical juncture, Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) announced a suite of funding priorities ahead of the federal election.

ADF President Ben Bennett invited the Federal Government to support the industry to reinvigorate dairy production, modernise farm operations, and strengthen regional dairy communities.

“Australian dairy production has declined from a peak in 2001-02 at around 11.3 billion litres, down to 8.3 billion litres in 2023-24a decline of 26 per cent,” Mr Bennett said. “Over this time we’ve also seen an increase in cheap imported products.”

Mr Bennett said the Government Standing Committee into Australia’s food security in 2023 recommended that the National Food Plan develop a ‘speci c strategy’

for reinvigorating the Australian dairy industry to li pro tability and production while addressing its economic and environmental sustainability.

Mr Bennet said ADF’s cohesive policy priorities recognised that dairy farming was more than ‘just milk production’, as it provided essential nutrition, supported jobs and service industries, and fostered innovation through new technologies and modern workforce practices.

Mr Bennett said attracting new farmers and encouraging reinvestment in the sector would lead to greater productivity, enhanced sustainability, and stronger regional economies.

“As dairy production prospers, so do the towns, businesses, and services that rely on it,” he said.

The ADF wish-list seeks a $399 million investment across ve key areas:

 First farm ownership and family succession support to ensure new and

young farmers can enter and grow within the industry

 Reinvestment in on-farm productivity and e ciency, to support modernisation through advanced technology and sustainability measures

 Water security for dairy farms via long-term solutions for managing scarce water resources

 Workforce development and digital adoption – equipping dairy operations with skilled workers and the latest farm automation technologies

 Ongoing industry support by strengthening the services and support farmers needed to build and sustain a thriving dairy sector

Mr Bennett said the ADF election package was about building con dence in the dairy industry’s future.

“With targeted government support, dairy can continue to be a pillar of Australia’s food security and rural economy for generations to come,” he said.

More than just thoughts and prayers

IN the lead up to Easter 2025, Rev Richard Pennington from the Anglican Euroa/ Murchison Parish shares with us more than just thoughts about the key moment in the Christian calendar.

There are a hundred different answers when you pose the question: “What is Easter?”

Some would say four-days holidays, sometimes even more when it coincides with the school holidays.

It is hot cross buns and Easter eggs?

And let’s face it who doesn’t like a hot cross bun and a chocolate egg?

But Easter is more – it is the season when we think about when Jesus was given up by Judas for money, tried by Pontius Pilot for things that he didn’t do, crucified on Good Friday and then rose on Easter Sunday to appear before Mary Magdalene who then goes and tells the

disciples that she has seen and spoken to Jesus and he is very much alive.

It a great story that has stood the test of time through the ages but let’s pose the question: is Jesus still relevant?

Where does Jesus fit into 2019?

Jesus lived and died just over 2000 years ago.

He was God’s son who lived amongst us radiating hope, strength, humility, compassion, and above all of love.

Jesus is very much alive and well and lives amongst us in the faces, the actions and the love of others around us.

Just imagine if we all shared the love, the joy, the hope, the charity of Jesus –what a wonderful world this would be.

The following was written by Doctor James Allen in 1926 and is something which encapsulates Jesus in a few short sentences.

Here is a man who was born in an obscure village as the child of a peasant woman.

He grew up in another obscure village.

He worked in a carpenter shop until he was thirty and then for three years was an itinerant preacher.

He never wrote a book.

He never held an office.

He never owned a home.

He never had a family.

He never went to college.

He never lived inside a big city.

He never travelled more than two hundred miles from the place where he was born.

He never did any of the things that usually accompany greatness.

He had no credentials but himself.

He was only 33 when the tide of popular opinion turned against him.

His friends ran away.

One of them denied him.

Another betrayed him.

He was turned over to his enemies.

He went through the mockery of a trial.

He was nailed upon the cross between two thieves.

While he was dying his executioners gambled for his garments, the only property he had on earth.

When he was dead, he was taken down and laid in a borrowed grave through the pity of a friend.

More than centuries have come and gone but of all the armies that ever marched, all the navies that have ever sailed, all the parliaments that ever sat and all the kings and Queens that ever reigned, when put together, none have affected life on earth as powerfully as has this one solitary life.

Binney Street, Euroa Cnr High & Marie Sts Nagambie OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 6.30AM with Vanilla Cream

PHOTO: TARYN ELLIOTT

48th Historic Winton presents a huge two days of historic motorsport

THE 48th Historic Winton, to be held on 24 -25 May at Winton Motor Raceway, will be two full days of historic car racing and vehicle displays of the elegant, the rustic, the weird and wacky.

Presented by the Austin 7 Club, Historic Winton is well known as being Australia’s most popular historic race event showcasing racing cars from the very beginning (more than 100 years ago) to the mid-1980s.

The Shannons Car Park features ‘Pride of Place’ vehicles whilst heritage displays of emergency services and other types of vehicles are exhibited around the track.

“There is so much to see and do that we provide a courtesy bus to take visitors to the various attractions around the outside of the track,” Historic Winton organiser John Kessner said.

A unique feature of the event is the trackside camping at Winton Motor Raceway.

Mr Kessner said there’s room for 700 motorhomes, caravans and tents.

“For safety reasons, no pets are allowed though, as we can’t have them accidentally running onto the track,” he said.

Mr Kessner said Historic Winton is well regarded for its friendliness with competitors meeting here once a year from all over Australia.

“Many become lifelong friends,” he said.

Preceding Historic Winton is the Benalla Historic Vehicle Tour on Friday, 23 May.

Motoring enthusiasts tour the rich and varied sights of Benalla and surrounds.

To add to the fun, Austin 7 Club, “President’s Choice” trophies are awarded to participants with ‘stand out’ vehicles.

Mr Kessner said that the Austin 7 Club was currently celebrating its 75th anniversary and it’s 400 plus members are proud of its achievements and impact on motorsport in Australia.

“We have been holding events at Winton Motor Raceway for more than 50 years and Historic Winton for 49 years,” he said.

“Our club history includes our formative role in motorsport in Australia with us being on the founding committee of the rst motorsport peak body and we introduced Observed Section Trials (or mud trials) to Australia.”

For more information or to book tickets, visit https://historicwinton.org/ and https://www.ticketebo.com.au/historic-winton/48thhistoric-winton-2025.

For the chance to win a double weekend pass, visit https://www. wangarattachronicle.com.au/48historic-winton-giveaway before 12 May.

More details about the Benalla Historic Vehicle Tour, visit https:// www.enjoybenalla.com.au/listing/benalla-historic-vehicle-tourbenalla/.

HISTORIC WINTON: The 48th Historic Winton promises two days of historic car racing and vehicle displays of the elegant, the rustic, the weird and wacky.

Church Services

ANGLICAN CHURCH

Thursday 17th April (Maundy Thursday)

5pm St Paul’s Euroa

Friday 18th April (Good Friday)

9.15am St Paul’s Euroa

Saturday 19th April (Easter Saturday)

11am St Dunstan’s Violet Town

Sunday 20th April (Easter Day)

8am St Andrew’s Longwood

9.15am St Paul’s Euroa Enq: 0405 879 554

Rev Richard Pennington www.anglicaneuroa.org.au

All Welcome

BAPTIST CHURCH

31 Kennedy Street, Euroa Sunday April 20th, 10am

Tuesday: 9.30am Prayer, 10.30am Bible Study.

Listen to Vision Radio 88.4 FM

Enq: Pastor Rob Archer 0408 513 566

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST

Services at Kelvin View Hall

Sunday April 20th

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

Holy Thursday 17th April

7pm Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper followed by “the watch” until 9.30pm Good Friday 18th April

10.30am Ecumenical Stations of the Cross at St Patrick’s Longwood

3pm Solemn Celebration of the Passion at St John’s Euroa 6pm Stations of the Cross at St Attracta’s Violet Town Holy Saturday 19th April

7.30pm The Easter Vigil at St. John’s Church Euroa Easter Sunday 20th April Masses

8.30am St Patrick’s Longwood

10.30am St Attracta’s Violet Town

Enquiries: Fr Tony Hill 5795 3048

For Baptisms and weddings please contact Fr Tony or the Parish Office

UNITING CHURCH

St Andrew’s, Euroa Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am Everyone Welcome

13th April 9.30am - Palm Sunday Service 17th April 5.00pm - Maundy Thursday Service

18th April 9.30am - Good Friday Service 20th April 9.30am - Easter Sunday Service

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 5795 1175

St Andrew’s Violet Town

Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am All Welcome

Enq: John Dunn 0419 362 866

EUROA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

Old School House, Clifton St Euroa Every Sunday Meeting at 9.45am for prayer requests. 10am Service

Enquiries: Josh 0402 427 955

THREE-DAY EVENT DRAWS MORE THAN 20 THOUSAND

Euroa’s flag waved well at Expo

By ANDY WILSON

THE three-day Seymour Alternative Farming Expo attracted its usual 20,000 visitors last Friday to Sunday, who enjoyed perusing the more than 400 exhibitors that ranged from chickens and other livestock through to tractors, mohair jumpers, and camel rides.

The popular event is now in its 34th year.

Friday drew a lot of small families and couples enjoying very slow walks as the numbers built up in the a ernoon.

Waving the ag for Euroa was Linda and Colin Green who have run Green eece wool products for thirty years since they rst set up a stall at the Violet Town markets.

They have been selling at the Seymour Expo for a decade and said they had started the business to put their kids through university.

“We had ve kids,” Linda said.

“We couldn’t a ord a television.”

Colin listed o their alumni in order.

“We now have a midwife, a superannuation executive, a boiler maker, a radiologist and a nurse ‘eventually’,” he said.

“She’s busy having her own ve kids,” Linda said.

The Greens said that sales would be more challenging this year due to the dry conditions and ‘everyone doing it tough’.

“There’s no rain and there will probably be a recession,” Linda said.

“In fact we just sold all our cattle because we couldn’t a ord to feed them.”

Also exhibiting was Strathbogie Tractors’ Ashley ‘Tractor’ Thompson who is Euroa born and bred and has been running his tractor maintenance business for een years.

He is now in his third year as a seller of three brands and this was his second year at the Expo where he wasted no time getting to the point.

“I love tractors,” Tractor said.

“I love vintage tractor pulling and I love Euroa - I went to school there too.

“My name really is ‘Tractor’ Thompson, that’s what people call me.”

Tractor sells attachments and accessories for (real) tractors made by Wangaratta’s Burder

engineers and Woods Tractor Attachments.

He had on display a Slovenian AGT tractor which has a unique reversible console to send its 50 horsepower in both directions as needed.

“It is really an ‘Agromehanika’ but its easier to say ‘AGT’.” Crowds at the Expo were also treated to a snake display, aerial motorbike stunts, whip cracking, sheep dog trials, and cooking demonstrations.

Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland said she enjoyed the ‘privilege’ to spend the weekend at the Expo alongside her Nationals party colleagues, friends, family, and the wider community.

“More than two-and-a-half thousand people stopped by my marquee for a yarn, to share feedback, and raise local issues,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Listening to (the electorate) is the most important part of my job as your voice in Parliament.”

Ms Cleeland said Expo was a cornerstone of the local economy which brought people from across the country to experience the best the region has to o er.

“It’s a celebration of the strength and innovation in our agricultural industry, showcasing everything.

“Agriculture is the backbone of our regional economy, and events like this play a vital role in recognising the incredible work our farmers do every day.”

WE HAVE GOATS: The Expo is famous for attracting over 400 exhibitors each year, ranging from irrigators to tractors and some of the finest and unusual breeds of livestock.

CARAVAN OF LOVE: Peter Hodge has been bringing his camels to the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo for 13 years, having raised for more than three decades camels that he captures from the wild and then trains. PHOTOS: Andy Wilson

THIRTY YEARS ON: EUROA’S LINDA AND COLIN GREEN HAD A MISSION IN MIND WHEN THEY STARTED GREENFLEECE WOOL PRODUCTS - PAYING FOR THEIR FIVE CHILDREN’S UNIVERSITY TUITION.

“ACTUALLY ONE OF THEM IS GOING TO BE A NURSE EVENTUALLY BUT IS BUSY HAVING BABIES,” LINDA SAID.

POLLS APART: Highland Cows are known for their very long horns, but not those from Mayfield Poll Highlands stud where horns have been bred out. It makes them even cuddlier.

to attend this year’s Expo, father Travis holding Bailey with Kira and camera shy Ollie who chose to stay in the pram.

WHAT’S THAT OVER THERE? Taj Jennings wanted to keep moving on with his father Daniel, mother Bridie, and brothers River and Tanner.

The best way to reach the Strathbogie

BY EMAIL BY PHONE 5723 0101

classifieds@nemedia.com.au

45-47 Railway Street, Euroa, Victoria 3666

Classifi ed Information

Mansfield Courier

Phone: (03) 5723 0101

email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Booking deadline:

12 noon Monday day prior to print.

The Chronicle

Phone: (03) 5723 0101

email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Booking deadline:

2pm day prior to print.

Myrtleford Times / Alpine Observer

Phone: (03) 5723 0101

email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Booking deadline:

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North East Tourist News

Phone: (03) 5723 0100

email: sales@nemedia.com.au

Phone for quarterly booking deadline

North East Farmer

Phone: (03) 5723 0100

email: nefarmer@nemedia.com.au

Booking deadline: Second Friday of month

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SLOAN (neé Delahey), Agnes ‘Ann’.

Passed away peacefully at Benalla Health on April 7, 2025.

Aged 81 years

Loved and loving wife of Syd (dec).

Loved and adored mother of Maree and Tony and mother-in-law of Graeme and Lisa. Treasured Nan of Conor and Mia. ‘Forever in our hearts’ Rest in peace.

WEINBERG, Val.

Died peacefully on April 3, 2025 at Nagambie Health Care.

Aged 98 years.

Loved mother of Marilyn and Robin (dec). Loved mother-in-law to Clive (dec) and Carolyn. Grandmother to 6, Great Grandmother to 11 and Great-Great Grandmother to 1.

Private internment as per her wishes.

SLOAN

Requiem Mass for the Repose of the Soul of Mrs Agnes ‘Ann’ Sloan will be o ered at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Arundel Street, Benalla on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 commencing at 11am. The funeral will leave at the conclusion of Mass for burial at the Benalla Lawn Cemetery.

Livestream of the Requiem Mass for Ann will be available, please go to the N J Todd website and follow the livestream link.

N.J. TODD

Member AFDA

BENALLA (03) 5762 2461

EUROA 1800 352 425

DELAHEY (Anker), Mavis “Lorraine”. Trevor and family wish to express their sincere gratitude to everyone for their support and condolences during the di cult time of Lorraine’s passing.

ROBISON, Max. April 5, 2005. It has been 20 years without you Dad. You are forever loved and always missed.

~ Shirley and Brian. xxx ❤

N J Todd Funeral Directors

Member AFDA

Servicing Euroa & District since 1937

Damien Feehan

Justin Feehan

Edition after Easter

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23, 2025

Classified cut off: 4pm, Thursday, April 17

Wishing all our advertisers and readers a safe Easter Break

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MOTOR VEHICLES

Daylight saving ending relaxes tee off

By DAVID LOVE

THE Nagambie Golf Club

April monthly medal had a big eld of 39 players teeing it up with the clocks going back and the tee time moving forward giving everyone

involved plenty of time to prepare.

The winning golfer on the day was Jeremy Ezard recording a par-equaling 722-70 to win by way of count back.

Ezard’s form of late has

not been at his best but he managed to rise on the big occasion with some accurate driving and competent chipping to complete his day with a rewarding result.

The runner-up nding some form a er an extended

period in the doldrums was Michael Sloan ring an impressive 74-4-70.

Lindsay Hall finished his day with a one better than handicap 83-12-71 to claim third spot, showing good signs with some big

events not too far away.

The nearest the pin prizes went to Ben Cassar finding the dance floor on the difficult 3rd green, Michael Sloan added to his good day by taking out the 8th and new member Rod Wilson showing a liking for the course, recording nearest the pin at the 13th. Next week’s golf will be a stableford event, hit off is now 9.00am to 9.30am. On o ce duty is D. Love and in the bar W. Le Cerf.

MATCH REVIEWS

Scoreboard glitch of second quarter robs

Towners of their effort

By ANDY WILSON

IN a tough match played out before a crowd of over 200, Nagambie Lakers prevailed over the never-say-die attitude of Violet Town in their Round 1 clash for this year’s season.

The opening term looked like the setting for a close game, with any ‘ho-hum’ about last year’s di erences between the two sides soon dashed with Violet Town leading by 2 points at the break, before the Lakers hit the peddle in the second quarter and broke away with eight well-deserved goals to the Towners’ two.

Violet Town could not

capitalise when they had the ball inside 50m and in the third quarter they had more scoring shots than a tiring Nagambie and did not give up on pushing their hosts until the nal siren.

Despite some strong e orts from Violet Town’s mid elders such as Patrick Horsburgh, who seemed to be everywhere during his purple patches, the likes of Hockley, Laverie, and Barnes snaring more than a couple of goals each saw Nagambie sail home.

Praise for Nagambie is clearly warranted with that second quarter burst, but Violet Town should not be underestimated in 2025.

GOALS: NAGAMBIE: Liam Hockley 4; Tom Barnes 3; Trent Laverie 3; Mark Nolan 2; William O’Brien 2; Darby O’Brien 1; Hayden Szczykulski 1; Josh Walker 1. VIOLET

TOWN: Robert Wilson 3; Ashly Hobbs 2; Nathan Butler 1; Sam Cox 1; Hayden Floate 1.

BEST: NAGAMBIE: Tom Barnes, William Ulrich, Liam Hockley, Mark Nolan, Tyson Chapman, Trent Laverie. VIOLET TOWN: Patrick Horsburgh, John Woodcock, Sam Cox, Ryan Jennings, Joshua Robertson, Robert Wilson.

Mixed bag out at Nagambie for Violet Town

A GRADE

Nagambie 42 def by Violet Town 46

THE Towners had a di erent starting lineup this week with of one of their girls out, however the tweaked combinations started strong.

It was great to see periods of strong, connected, fast and smart netball throughout the whole court. In contrast, some not so smart or accurate passes caused unnecessary turnovers that allowed Nagambie the opportunity to claw back the Towners early lead.

It’s exciting to see where the Towners are starting the season and now they just have to be able to put out a solid 60 minutes of consistent high quality netball.

Jacqui Bast dominated with her

ability to nd space and feed fellow goalie Maddie.

Jo Wilde was steady and consistent throughout the whole game and was able to provide a calm presence when the Towners needed it.

Emma Warnock played a great game starting in WA with her feeding and also won great ball when swapped into defence.

Award went to Jacqui Bast

B GRADE

Nagambie 41 defeated Violet Town 34

A DEPLETED B grade team of six players took to the court with assistance from some wonderful helpers from C Grade.

Every player worked hard to utilise opportunities, and the score showed it with Violet Town oc-

casionally taking the lead, but Nagambie proved the stronger team on the day, especially in the second half.

Accolades go to Hannah Sharp in goals, who moved the ball strongly throughout the goal circle and Megan Bamford in the midcourt for outstanding endurance and endeavour.

Awards went to Hannah Sharp and Megan Bamford.

C GRADE

Nagambie 32 defeated by Violet Town 38

It was the highlight of the netball on Saturday when a jubilant Violet Town team broke their curse and celebrated their rst win in many years a er combining to play an absolutely outstanding game.

Combination work in goals formed a formidable attacking team, with mature composure and con dence.

The defence battled hard, picking o intercepts and pulling in rebounds allowing the centre players to work the ball through the mid court with ease, enabling smooth transition down the court.

A wonderful team e ort and a wonderful well-deserved victory.

Awards went to Ella Bast and Courtney Pilcher

C RESERVE

Nagambie 52 defeated Violet town 17

With a new look team, C Reserve were going out for the rst time to learn o each other - and that they did.

They started well against a much more experienced team, but they took a little longer to settle and nished o the quarter down 6-16.

The second quarter saw Violet Town continue their momentum into the second quarter, coming up with some great intercepts and amazing passages of play down the court.

The half time score was a respectable 11-22.

In the third quarter Violet Town started to get tired and Nagambie capitalised on this, pushing the margin out to 27 at three quarter time, score 15-42.

The Towners fought hard in the nal quarter and didn’t give up until the end despite Nagambie’s strength.

It was a gallant e ort.

Awards went to Mikaela Dunn and Maria Michalowski

NAGAMBIE

VIOLET TOWN

PLAY IT ON: Josh Walker takes on Towner defenders two at a time during a late tussle in the Lakers’ goal square.

CHARGING IN FOR HIS THIRD: The dash of Nagambie’s Tom Barnes epitomised the Laker’s determination to bury Violet Town early on. PHOTO: Andy Wilson

Redlegs prove a bit of a handful as Swans pull away

By ANDY WILSON

AVENEL opened their account to the 2025 season with a hard-fought win at home against their ‘crossLoxley’ rivals Longwood.

A er an arm wrestle for the rst half which saw scores locked in at 6.6 apiece, the Swans looked to kick away in the third quarter before a dogged Longwood fought back in the nal, outscoring Avenel but letting inaccuracy put a bit more sting into the ten-point margin.

A few missed opportunities and some undisciplined acts proved costly.

With nine new faces in the Swans lineup since they last kicked a ball in anger, the team could be forgiven for a few jittery errors at the start.

Debutant coach JD Delaney said a big challenge for the day was allowing the new team to settle in.

“We came into the game with a bit of nerves, a bit of unknowns of how we were all going to play together, and I think it showed in the rst quarter,” Delaney said.

“We were fumbling and weren’t playing to the way we have been training all preseason.”

Despite playing more to their form in the second half, Avenel still found the Redlegs a determined out t and so never applied any real scoreboard pressure.

“To Longwood’s credit, they were physical and tough all day and have de nitely improved from last year.

“They’ll be a bit of a handful for a few teams this year.”

Longwood coach Baz Formosa said both teams were in the hunt for most of the day.

“It was a good game, and we did a lot right but just missed a few chances which means you miss a few opportunities that let us down on the day,” Formosa said.

“We need to spend this week to just tighten up a few things with our game plan so we will have a pretty good out t for next week.”

1; Tim

The third-year coach said his squad would be looking forward to the return of a few key players including star Daniel Francis when they host Nagambie in Round 2. Avenel debutants Josh Webster and Clayton Salmon both started their season with very solid games and Nick Goodwin showed his unsel sh form up forward by setting up a few goals with his clear decision making. In the Reserves, Longwood got the jump on Avenel with a quick

opening of three goals to nil by quarter time, the rst two of them coming from the light-footed Jack McDonald, who later dislocated his shoulder in the third quarter.

Swans coach Kane Toohey settled his troops at the rst break, and with a strong performance from Joel Ryan and Jack Carroll, Avenel took charge of the game,

shutting Longwood down to one goal for the remainder as the Swans ran out 49-point winners.

Longwood’s Mitch Harper and vice-captain Josh Hyland proved a handful while Ryan’s three goals for the Swans lled the gap by regular sharp-shooter Nathan Woods who spent more of the game in the mid eld.

ROUND RESULTS ROUND RESULTS

U14 Boys 58 def by Bulleen 2 59

(Top Scorers: M. How 14, J. Key 11, H. Buckingham 9)

U14 Girls 41 def Broadmeadows 1 33

(Top Scorers: Q. Saltmarsh 16, G. Crowe 10, L. McConachy 10)

U16 Boys 1 55 def Hawthorn 1 54

(Top Scorers: S. Wright 18, B. Buckland 10, C. Cassidy 6)

U16 Boys 2 51 def Bulleen 3 40

(Top Scorers: O. McGahan 16, C. Keatch 15, D. Anderson 9)

U16 Girls 34 def by Whittlesea 1 47

(Top Scorers: A. Gray 8, E. O’Neill 7, H. Reid 6)

U18 Boys 1 53 def by Dandenong 3 59

(Top Scorers: H. Pople 12, L. Cashman 10, J. Hutson 8)

U18 Boys 2 43 def by Broadmeadows 2

AIRBORNE SCRIMMAGE: The Avenel Reserves defence outfit sees Cal Williams get that bit higher than Doc Wilson who isn’t doing Jack McDonald’s (6) shoulder any good before he dislocated it. PHOTO: Monica Crnko

CLOSE LEAD: Avenel coach JD Delaney gets ahead of Dakota Pellegrino and Brodie Bur it.

PHOTOS: Gary Tate

GOALS: AVENEL: Joshua Webster 3; Alex Crnko 2; Clayton Salmon 2; Joshua Delaney

Dundon 1; Braydon Hardstaff 1; Jahmal Stretch 1; Trayvon Stretch 1. LONGWOOD: Luke Allison 2; William Pointer 2; Michael Celestin 1; Isaak Eastick 1; Liam Edwards 1; Brayden Klemke 1; Dakota Pellegrino 1; Nathan Pender 1.

BEST: AVENEL: Jack Myers, Nicholas Goodwin, Tim Dundon, Clayton Salmon, Joshua Carrafa, Joshua Webster. LONGWOOD: Beau Ogden, Michael Celestin, Dillon Hardy, Brayden Klemke, George Chamouras, Isaak Eastick.

MATCH REVIEWS

Undermanned reserves struggle

By TONY BRODIE

THE Euroa reserves journeyed to Kyabram and a number of players, due to various circumstances, were unavailable, meaning the day’s game was going to be a huge task.

Numbers were short and we had to rely on some of the under 18 players to help fill the team.

Netballers continue where they left off

EUROA’S A grade netball side continued their momentum from last year as reigning premiers in a ruthless disposing of Kyabram at their home last Saturday to open season 2025 with a comfortable win.

Coach Ellie Warnock was able to coax almost all of her winning 2024 squad back to the nest this year.

This means the likes of Hollie Reid, Liv Morris, Eliza Hoare, Mia Sudomirski, Sophie Owen, and Kellie Davidson are again going to torment their opponents in what is hoped to be another successful season.

Euroa scored 75 goals to Kyabram’s 33 to underline such dominance.

Supporting this team and key members of the squad were Grace Warnock, Bree Sudomirski, as well as new-comer Sami Kreltszheim.

From the rst bounce it was very apparent that the Kyabram side was well prepared and ready to play.

Euroa tried as hard as they could but were no match for the opposi-

We were not able to move the ball into our forward line which resulted in our team scoring only one point for the day.

The team was led by Mitch Penman, Nick Thomson, and

giving other players support.

Zac Williams and Jordon Asquith showed good signs and will improve as the season goes on.

Hopefully we will have some players to come back into the team

are always hard to beat. We have to stick together as a whole group – continue to work hard to improve our game.

Euroa 0-1-1 defeated by Kyabram 29-21-191

GOULBURN VALLEY SENIORS LADDER

SENIORS SCOREBOARD

Best Players: Nicholas Thomson, Callan Howell, Mitch Penman, Zac Williams, Bailey Allen

The third quarter saw Euroa kick their first goal of the game with a set shot from Baxter Fraser, but ‘fantastic’ passages of play from the home team saw them extend their lead, ending the quarter at 94 to 9. By game’s end Kyabram had proven too strong. Despite the loss, the Euroa boys had some good moments in the game, but they needed to play their best football for longer.

After a strong pre-season with good results against quality opposition, we know our best football is in front of us. Kyabram 21-12-138 def Euroa 1-3-9

Goals: Baxter Fraser Best: Casey Collett, Drew Coller, Max Miller, Callan Howell, Baxter Fraser

MANSFIELD 1.2 6.6 7.8 11.11.77 MOOROOPNA 4.2 4.3 5.6 5.9.39

GOALS: MANSFIELD: Jack Hutchins 4; William Hogan 2; Sam Thomson 2; Nick Gray 1; Ben Les 1; Brett Mahoney 1. MOOROOPNA: Oscar Emanuelli 2; Isaac Dowling 1; Kobie Issell 1; Jack Osborne 1.  BEST: MANSFIELD: Dirk Koenen, Matthew King, Sam Thomson, Gus van der Heyden, Nick Gray. MOOROOPNA: Kai Madgwick, Jordan Formica, Isaac Dowling, Dom Gugliotti, Jack Johnston.

SHEPPARTON 3.7 7.11 12.19 16.23.119

TATURA 0.1 1.3 1.4 2.6.18

GOALS: SHEPPARTON: Lewis McShane 5; Zaydan Leocata 3; Jacob Watts 3; Noah Brodie 1; Trent Herbert 1; Tanner Madigan 1; Zac Metcalf 1; Xavier Stevenson 1. TATURA: Ben Darrou 1; Will Russell 1. BEST: SHEPPARTON: Bryce Stephenson, Lewis McShane, Adam Decicco, Jacob Watts, Tanner Madigan. TATURA: Michael Archer, Kitt McCamley, Mitchell Elliott, Liam Scopelliti, Chris Ryan.

NETBALL SCORES

A Grade: Mansfield 25 def by Mooroopna 50; Shepp Swans 59 def Benalla 21; Shepparton 62 def Tatura 50; Rochester 43 def by Seymour 59; Echuca 44 def Shepp Utd 41; Kyabram 33 def by Euroa 75

B Grade: Mansfield 23 def by Mooroopna 75; Shepp Swans 45 def Benalla 25; Shepparton 47 def Tatura 40; Rochester 43 def by Seymour 44; Echuca 59 def Shepp Utd 21; Kyabram 29 def by Euroa 60

B Reserve: Mansfield 24 def by Mooroopna 48; Shepp Swans 42 def Benalla 34; Shepparton 18 def by Tatura 32; Rochester 37 def by Seymour 45; Echuca 27 def by Shepp Utd 32; Kyabram 29 def by Euroa 44

17 & Under: Mansfield 36 def Mooroopna 28; Shepp Swans 45 def Benalla 36; Shepparton 47 def Tatura 29; Rochester 48 def Seymour 24; Echuca 57 def Shepp Utd 33; Kyabram 52 def Euroa 42

15 & Under: Mansfield 31 def by Mooroopna 49; Shepp Swans 48 def Benalla 27; Shepparton 47 def Tatura 7; Rochester 39 def Seymour 28; Echuca 50 def Shepp Utd 49; Kyabram 26 def by Euroa 60

ROUND 2

SATURDAY, APRIL 12

Mooroopna vs Rochester

Seymour vs Shepparton Swans

Euroa vs Echuca

Benalla vs Shepparton

Tatura vs Kyabram

GOALS: ECHUCA: Kane Morris 3; Cooper Barber 2; Samuel Edgar 2; Jackson Stewart 2; Hugh Byrne 1; Jack Mchale 1; Leo O’Brien 1; Logan Orr 1; Samuel Reid 1. SHEPPARTON UNITED: Kyle Clarke 2; Tom Bennett 1; Kade Chalcraft 1; Jayedon Hexter 1; Hume Hurley 1; Liam Serra 1. BEST: ECHUCA: Mitchell Wales, Jackson Stewart, Jack Mchale, Benjamin Reid, Cameron Valentine. SHEPPARTON UNITED: Caidan Phillips, Liam Serra, Blake Fothergill, Declan Newbound, Jesse Cucinotta.

SHEPP SWANS 3.3 9.10 17.12 20.17.137 BENALLA 3.0 5.2 5.4 7.6.48

GOALS: SHEPPARTON SWAN: Andrew Riordan 4; Steele Simpson 4; Liam Rachele 3; Zac Alderton 2; Tyreece Collison 2; Nathan Rachele 2; Max Clohesy 1; Adam Fichera 1; Oliver Warburton 1. BENALLA: Nathan Wright 4; Max Cullen 1; Tom Riley 1; Nicholas Warnock 1. BEST: SHEPPARTON SWAN: Oliver Warburton, Andrew Riordan, Liam Rachele, Max Clohesy, Jonathan Moore. BENALLA: Mark Marriott, Christopher Welsh, Sam Begley, Charlie Mccarthy, Nathan Wright.

KYABRAM 6.3 7.5 10.8 14.10.94

EUROA 2.3 2.6 5.7 8.9.57

GOALS: KYABRAM: Tom Holman 3; Archie Watt 3; Charlie Barnett 1; Zac Cerrone 1; Anthony Depasquale 1; Riley Ironside 1; Nicholas Jephson 1; Michael Mattingly 1; Zachary Norris 1; Jack Russell 1. EUROA: Nicholas Asquith 2; Andrew Bell 2; Will Creevey 1; Jacob Gleeson 1; Ryan Hill 1; Marcus Varley 1. BEST: KYABRAM: Archie Watt, Jake Parkinson, Aidan Robinson, Michael Mattingly, Kaine Herbert. EUROA: Cohen Paul, Nic Burke, Jacob Gleeson, Will Creevey, Jake Penman.

ROCHESTER 3.0 10.5 14.7 18.11.119

SEYMOUR 2.2 3.5 3.7 5.10.40

GOALS: ROCHESTER: Hugh Hamilton 4; Tobie Woodfine 3; Mitch Cricelli 2; Mitchell Trewhella 2; Wil Hamilton 1; Adam McPhee 1; Nash Ramage 1; Nate Rasmussen 1; Lincoln Sieben 1; Dillon Williams 1; Sean Williams 1. SEYMOUR: Nathan Beattie 1; Lucas Cavigan 1; Lachlan Giles 1; Tom Jeffrey 1; Oliver Munro 1. BEST: ROCHESTER: Mitchell Trewhella, Dylan Gordon, Hamish Hooppell, Wil Hamilton, Bailey Boyack. SEYMOUR: Nicholas Quigg, Jack Murphy, Lachlan Beattie, Dylan Cook, Lucas Cavigan.

Swans gel well to start the year

By ANDY WILSON

In the rst round of the KDL’s netball roster, the Avenel Swans A grade came out hard against Longwood on Saturday at Avenel.

Magpies fall under lights at Kyabram

By SCOTT WATSON

IN a welcome to return to local football, the Euroa Magpies senior side took to the ground in Kyabram under lights at the far from traditional time slot of 6pm.

A good crowd was in attendance.

Newly appointed coach Dave Gleeson named a Euroa side that had a number of debutants - namely Archie Wilson and Nic Asquith.

Wilson is a bottom age under 18 player whose ability to slot into the side and senior GVL football certainly caught the eye of many.

An interesting fact was that the team which ran out on the ground for this match had all 22 players being rated as a ‘one-point player’ under the player point system - a rst for Euroa and maybe even a rst for the GVL in recent years.

Young guns Cohen Paul, Will Creevey, Ryan Hill, Mitchell Walters and Nic Burke were again selected in this team as they looked to get their season o on the right foot.

Nic Burke’s older brother Tom was a very welcome return to this team a er playing elsewhere for a few years.

Reserves co-coach Declan Redfern looked very impressive in this side as did bothers Zac Gleeson (playing his 50th senior game for the club) and Jacob Gleeson.

Jacob celebrated his 150th senior game of the club in ne style – be-

ing one of the better performers in a very good team e ort.

With Darby Wilson and Nate Trotter out injured this meant the side ‘only’ had four sets of brothers playing instead of six – this is something the club is very proud to acknowledge and is a wonderful re ection on the families of the boys involved.

Kyabram began very well and immediately put scoreboard pressure on the ‘Pies.

Captain Jett Trotter underlined his class with excellent mid eld and forward play – setting up plenty of opportunities at scoring goals. Veterans Andrew Bell and Marcus Varley again de ed their birthdates with outstanding contributions throughout the match - their leadership will no doubt be a vital component to the teams endeavors throughout the season.

Some strong defensive pressure in the rst quarter saw Avenel’s fast start hold Longwood to just 2 goals to the Swan’s 13.

The margin proved a healthy bu er for the game with Sophie Reynolds and Ebony Heers running out of the midcourt to bring the ball down court with speed.

Simply excellent goaling from Ash Hansen and Maddi Albers led to the team’s 26-point win.

Linc and Jack McKernan shouldered much of the ruck duties throughout the match with some support from Cohen Paul.

The mid- eld use of the ball from the likes of Jayden and Jacob Gleeson, Andrew Bell, Lachie Hill and Will Creevey meant the forward supply was consistent throughout the match.

Nic Asquith celebrated his rst senor match with his home club in style, bagging a couple of goals. Wonderful defensive e orts from Jake Penman, Jack Frewen and Keily Jager throughout the match were evident despite the immense pressure put on by the Kyabram out t.

With more than 80 tackles for the game the intensity the boys brought was impressing coach Gleeson and assistant coaches Neale Poole and Chris Burke.

This side looks forward to taking to the ground next weekend in their rst home game for the season against the reigning premiership team Echuca – the boys are up for the challenge.

With a 2pm start time all are encouraged to get to the ground, purchase a membership ticket and maybe a Coridollar ticket or three (only $50 per ticket this year) and enjoy an a ernoon of local sport.

Go Pies.

Euroa – 8.9.57 defeated by Kyabram 14.10.94

Best players: Cohen Paul, Nic Burke, Jacob Gleeson, Will Creevey, Jake Penman Bell Goal kickers: Andrew Bell (2), Nic Asquith (2), Will Creevey (1), Marcus Varley (1), Ryan Hill (1), Jacob Gleeson (1)

Coach Georgia Velt was very pleased to start her senior coaching career with such a strong win.

“It’s a very exciting season starter for the A grade squad,” Velt said.

“We’re looking forward to a great season ahead.”

Avenel 61 Longwood 35

Best: Sophie Reynolds, Maddie Richards

The Avenel B grade took little time to gel as a unit with its newer players, not least best-on-court Maddie Williams, the popular umpire making her comeback as a player a er 13 years.

Coach Leanne Jones said the team’s defensive pressure was ‘top notch’.

“They went very well for their rst game,” Jones said.

“The attacking was amazing and even though the girls missed a few shots, they were able to rebound well.”

Jones’ tactic included rolling subs all match long, guaranteeing fresh legs.

“It didn’t matter who we brought on, they were always fresh.”

Avenel 46 Longwood 22

Best: Maddie Williams Nicole Hoskin

UNDER ATTACK: Lachie Hill gets his kick away under pressure from his Kyabram opponent.

PACE: Jayden Gleeson gets away with the ball during Saturday night’s game.