Euroa Gazette 090823

School crossing dismay

NAGAMBIE Primary School (NPS) parents are “outraged” the school’s crossing supervision has been defunded and are campaigning to Strathbogie Shire Council to reinstate funding.

The school’s principal, Rob French, has encouraged parents to contact councillors to urge them to restore the service, which was discontinued from the beginning of term three.

Mr French has been personally filling the role of crossing supervisor after council – who argue the service is the responsibility of the State Government –withdrew funding for the school crossing supervision program.

Council was successful in having the State Government fund school crossing supervision for four of the shire’s five school crossings, but NPS was left out because its crossing is on a council road (Goulburn Street), not an arterial road managed by the government.

“Unfortunately my

BY DARREN CHAITMAN dchaitman@ nemedia.com.au

meeting on Monday [last week] with Strathbogie Mayor Laura Binks did not result in the desired outcome,” Mr French recently wrote in the NPS newsletter.

“Consequently, we sent out a SchoolStream message asking families for their assistance.”

In the message, Mr French provided the contact details of all Strathbogie Shire councillors (which are also available on the council’s website) and suggested sending councillors messages asking them to vote to restore crossing supervision at the school.

“School council president Paul Swan and I have also written to the councillors and will attend the next Strathbogie Council meeting to present our request,” Mr French continued in the newsletter.

■ Continued page 2

MAKING EUROA PROUD

EUROA’S Darby Hoare has been named captain of School Sport Victoria’s (SSV) under 12 football team. The St John’s student is spending this week in Albury for the six-day Australian championships, which started on Saturday and will finish this Friday.

■ See story page 3

Nagambie bridge woes woes

Binney Street Binney Street work surprise work

Saywell likely likely for councillor

‘Pies tame the T igers the Tigers

Page 2

Page 4

Page 5 Sport

Parents are “outraged” as only Nagambie Primary School is left out of funding arrangement

■ From page 1

Mr Swan, whose daughter is a student at NPS, told The Euroa Gazette the situation was “incredibly poor” and that Goulburn Street is a high-risk road, used frequently by heavy vehicles.

“There’s multitudes of trucks … and then there’s obviously parents picking their kids up and dropping them off,” he said.

Goulburn Street is one of the main access points to Industrial Crescent in Nagambie, an industrial hub which is a one-minute drive from the school.

The hub is home to a farm equipment supplier, a metal fabricator, a car repair shop, two storage companies and Boral Concrete.

The school is also a twominute drive from Nagambie

Railway Station and near other businesses.

According to council’s March ordinary meeting agenda, the average number of children who use the NPS crossing in the afternoon is 52, making it the most frequently used primary school crossing in the shire in the PM timeslot, ahead of St John’s Primary School (45 children) and Euroa Primary School (six children).

It is the second most frequently used in the morning, with an average of 23 children using the crossing in the AM timeslot, behind only St John’s (60 children).

“The parents and staff are absolutely outraged, because we pay huge rates here in this shire,” Mr Swan said.

“They’ve withdrawn $50,000 for child safety, pret-

Volunteer grants open for community groups

EXPRESSIONS of interest for Federal Government grants between $1000 to $5000 to assist eligible not-for-profit community organisations support the efforts of their volunteers by enabling the inclusion of vulnerable people and promoting volunteer participation close at 5pm on September 1.

The grants can be specific uses with some including:

• purchasing eligible small equipment for volunteer use;

• contributing to volunteer transport costs; and

• training courses for volunteers;

Details on the eligibility criteria and how to apply can be found at: helenhaines.org/ resources/grants/volunteer-grants-2023-24/.

MYSTERY OF THE EXCHANGED LIFE.

Sometimes you come across lives so radiant and rich in ways that intrigue. Although their stories are unique, they often tell of moving from depths of despair and defeat. They attest to exchanging weakness and weariness for inner strength and ineffectiveness for efficiency, joy & enthusiasm! How? Why? Such people admit that past patterns of self-effort and living self-centredly, only led to deep discouragement and wanting to giving up. At some point, their lives turned around and their ‘empty wells’ began overflowing with life-giving ‘water’. (Psalm 42:1, John 4:14)

The Why, is that they finally sought and found the Lord God as their Source of Provision to satisfy their souls’ deepest needs. (Psalm 23, Ephes.3:19) Our journeys may be longer or shorter but the important thing is that we take this Journey. Have you hit rock-bottom? Are you in crisis? Cry out to God for help and unlock the key to your own ‘exchanged life’. The Answer is a person, Jesus. We’re promised His Spirit as our personal strength, guide, confidence and companion when we seek Him, who is “The Way, the Truth and the Life”. (John 14:6) When people meet the real Jesus, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell within; and radical wonderful things happen hard to describe until you’ve experienced it yourself.

Millions testify there’s no more glorious day than when they surrendered their heart to the Lords’ plans for them. (Jer. 29:11) Peace, joy and strength, come flooding in; exchanging. ‘Beauty for ashes and the oil of joy, for mourning.” (Isaiah 61:3) Jesus tenderly comes to abide in us as the Vine and we become His branches. (John15:5)

God wants to bless believers abundantly; and remove worldly darkness for His glorious Light, when we choose Life. (Deut.30:15, Ephes. 3:19) Jesus suffered and died so we would not have to. His sacrifice was costly; but gained humanity, the free gift of forgiveness and eternal life. However, any gift must still be received and accepted to become individually owned. Until you say YES, to Jesus, you say No. (Matt.5:37, 12:30) Jesus said; “Come, all who are weary and burdened and I will give rest for your soul.” (Mattt.11:28-30) “I am come that they might have life… more abundantly”. (John 10:10) However unworthy you feel, just come just as you are today. When Christ becomes your personal Saviour, you exchange the old you for the new you. (2 Cor.5:17) Surrender your heart to Him in genuine thankfulness and you enter the family of God Almighty and His powerful resources.

The ‘exchanged life’ was coined by J. Hudson Taylor founder of the China Inland Mission, who described his own life-story this way. Longing souls never find satisfaction merely in worldly successes, but when we, “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness_ these things shall be added unto you.” (Matt.6:33) Ask anyone who’s decided FOR Jesus and they’ll say that Day is forever etched in their memory (Ephes.3:19) as when their life truly began. The Truth (John 8:32) still sets us free!

Provided By

Euroa Baptist Church

(You-tube songs: Ada Ehi: ”The Word is Working Inside of Me” & “Everything”; “My Story’ & “All Things New” by Big Daddy Weave; “Give Me Jesus” &”Jesus Paid It All” by Fernando Ortega.)

* Listen to Vision Radio 88.4 FM/ podcasts/for interviews with changed people: History Makers, Real Life Stories and The Story)

ty much – they’ve washed their hands of child safety.”

According to council’s March ordinary meeting agenda, the council had been contributing about $50,000 per year to supervise the shire’s five school crossings, while the State Government contributed just under $37,000 in the 2022/2023 financial year.

Earlier this year, State MP for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland addressed the State Government in Parliament, asking them to fund school crossing supervision in the shire.

But now that funding has arrived for the crossings on government roads, Ms Cleeland is supporting NPS’ plea to council to reinstate funding for their crossing.

“It is time for a resolution to be made, and with the

Nagambie Primary School crossing falling on a council owned road, it is time the Strathbogie Shire Council stood up to the plate,” Ms Cleeland said.

“The safety of our school children should not be compromised because of funding disagreements.”

However, Strathbogie Shire Council is showing no sign of backing down, as Mayor Laura Binks has continued to call on the State Government to fund the NPS crossing.

“The safety of our children and their carers is – without a doubt – the most important issue,” Cr Binks said.

“The Department [of Transport’s] decision not to fund a school crossing supervisor on Goulburn St at Nagambie Primary School

is unacceptable.

“Council has been advocating for this for almost a year and I am angry that we have not seen the program’s owners take full responsibility.

“We have already written to the department to ask them to reconsider their decision to not put a supervisor on Goulburn St at Nagambie Primary School.

“We have also written to Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne, along with our local state representatives to let them know action must be taken now.

“The School Crossing Supervision Program is the responsibility of the Victorian Government.

“We know the department is managing this service directly on all roads, state and council, in the Northern

Grampians Shire.

“We expect the same equitable arrangement.”

Asked by The Euroa Gazette if they would consider funding crossing supervision for NPS, a Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said they remained disappointed with council’s decision to withdraw from the crossing supervision program and “the opportunity will remain available for Strathbogie Shire Council to re-enter the partnership and receive subsidy funding for eligible sites should they choose to”.

Strathbogie Shire Council did not respond to a question asking whether councillors will vote again in the near future to fund crossing supervision for NPS.

Chinamans Bridge left to languish in disrepair

By DARREN CHAITMAN

OVER 10 months after the October 2022 floods further damaged Chinamans Bridge in Nagambie, the waterway below remains closed and the bridge languishes in a state of severe disrepair.

An exclusion zone under the heritage-listed bridge, prohibiting boat traffic, was established late last year after a post-flood structural assessment commissioned by Strathbogie Shire Council found it will collapse, according to the council.

Lee Rowland, who is president of Nagambie’s chamber of commerce GoNagambie, has said the boat ban is affecting tourism and leading to a decline in the business of local boat tour operators.

But neither the council nor the State Government has claimed ownership of the bridge, and any action to address Mr Rowland’s concerns is unlikely until it becomes clear who is responsible for the bridge’s maintenance.

Mayor Laura Binks said council is “advocating to relevant government departments to clarify ownership of the bridge”.

“It has never been on council’s asset register, but we fear ownership may have been transferred to council without our knowledge,” she said.

“Regardless of ownership responsibility, our message is clear – something needs to be done.

“We know the fix will be expensive and we’re calling on the Victorian Government to help us with a solution.”

In June, a preliminary assessment by environmental remediation firm Industrial Environmental, which was commissioned by GoNagambie, found demolishing the bridge was the only viable way to remove the exclusion zone and would cost $1.8 million.

“The only viable process to lift the exclusion zone is to demolish Chinamans Bridge, before its uncontrolled collapse in to the Goulburn River,” the assessment read.

“However, following a review of options to reduce this cost, it is considered that leaving the bridge pylons insitu may offer a saving to the overall demolition project value.”

The assessment stated the option of leaving the bridge partially intact needed to be investigated further by engineers, and these investigations would cost $50,000.

Mr Rowland has a personal reason for wanting to see the exclusion zone lifted: in addition to his role as GoNagambie president, he is the owner of Go Adventure Nagambie, a tour and boat hire business.

“There’ve been a combination of things that have seen my business be 70-80 per cent down on usual trade,” he said.

“A significant portion of that would be people not being able to do our most popular product, which is taking cruises on a pontoon boat out to [Michelton and Tahbilk] wineries and people hiring our tinnies and doing their own self-drives out to wineries.”

Mr Rowland said the same offering is also the most popular product of Nagambie’s other tour and boat hire business, Discovery Park.

Particularly in the warmer

months, he said, tourism in the region will be affected more broadly, as the limitations on using the Goulburn River could prevent tourists from visiting Nagambie.

He believes demolition is the only likely way forward “given there is no use for the bridge”, but this option is complicated by the bridge’s heritage status, which adds another layer of complexity to the thorny issue.

A Heritage Victoria statement of significance describes Chinamans Bridge as having “architectural and historical importance to the State of Victoria”.

Believed to have been constructed in 1891 – one of the earliest completely timber road bridges in Victoria – Chinamans Bridge carried HeathcoteNagambie Road over the Goulburn River until the road was re-aligned in the late 1990s to be carried over the river by a new bridge.

“Chinamans Bridge was given its name because the NagambieHeathcote Road, once known as Chinamans Road, was in an area populated by Chinese market gardeners up until 1916,” the Heritage Victoria statement of significance reads.

“It is especially associated with the growth of the township

of Nagambie and is an indication of the district’s prosperous sawmilling industry during the 1890s.

“Chinamans Bridge is of historical importance as a reminder of the steam boat era in Victoria during the 1890s, when rivers were still used in preference to roads for recreational and commercial purposes.”

Author and publisher Doug Stone, whose store Doug Stone Gold Maps is on Binney Street in Euroa, has researched the history of Chinamans Bridge for a book still to be published.

Mr Stone said he hopes the unique bridge is not demolished or left to crumble into the river.

“It’s of historic significance – spend some money on it, stabilise it, the substructure of it would be there another couple of hundred years,” he said.

“It’s typical – let everything fall down and then write copious reports about it.

“If people actually did something, rather than talking about it, we’d be much better off

“We’re losing so much of our heritage.”

The Department of Transport, Heritage Victoria and the office of Jaclyn Symes did not respond to questions from The Euroa Gazette

BROKEN BRIDGE: Over 10 months after floods further damaged Chinamans Bridge in Nagambie, the waterway below remains closed and the bridge languishes in a state of severe disrepair.

Neither council nor state has claimed ownership of heritage-listed pggbridge

Darby Hoare named captain of Vic U12 team

St John’s student is competing in the Australian Championships pgpp

By DARREN CHAITMAN

EUROA’S own Darby Hoare has been named captain of School Sport Victoria (SSV)’s under 12 football team.

Of 750 school students from across Victoria who trialled to compete in the team, only 23 made the cut and only Darby, who attends St John’s Primary School, was made captain.

Darby is spending this week in Albury for the six-day Australian championships, which started on Saturday and will finish on Friday, August 11.

Asked why he made captain, Darby said it came down to “just being vocal and encouraging, really”.

His proud dad, Brenton Hoare, elaborated on this, explaining his son was a pretty humble kid.

“Speaking to the coach, from the day of meeting Darby, they thought that he was quite a standout in his humbleness,” Mr Hoare said.

Rainfall

(Euroa Township)

Rainfall for Euroa in the week until 9am Monday, August 7 included 0.2mm on July 31, 0.2mm on August 1 and 16.4mm on August 5, totaling 16.8mm.

MOVED

Euroa

Location: 1B Bury St, Euroa

“The way he led on the ground with direction, and the way he played hard football, to set an example for the rest of them.

“They just said he’s a very, very good team player.”

He was also awarded best and fairest at the Euroa Junior Football Club in 2021 and 2022.

The Victorian coach, Leigh McQuillen, recently gave Darby a glowing write-up in The Herald Sun, in an article describing each of the under 12 players’ strengths and playing styles.

“When you talk inside midfielders, he can play in the back half if we get in trouble,” Mr McQuillen wrote.

“He’s very, very good, tough as nails, built incredibly solidly and just hits the ball so hard.

“Really structures us up from behind the footy with voice and direction.

“Will most likely play more on ball just because of how tough and contested he is.

“He’s very much like Matty Rowell at the Gold Coast Suns, plays a similar brand to him.”

Late last month, at a ceremony in Melbourne, Darby was awarded the Cameron Baird medal and given a football jumper emblazoned with the number four.

Cameron Baird became the 100th Australian solider to be awarded the Victoria Cross for Australia after he died fighting in Afghanistan in 2013.

Four had been his number as a junior footballer when he had been an under 12s captain.

“I feel really honoured to wear number four, Cameron Baird’s number, that fought for our country,” Darby said.

As the under 12s captain, Darby was also invited to sit on the bench at two AFL games with AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan, along with the under 12s vice-captain Kobe Treeby, a Sorrento Primary School student.

At the most recent of these

games, Darby was joined on the bench by an injured Buddy Franklin, not knowing then it would be the legendary player’s last AFL game before retiring.

“It was really cool, just being able to see all the players come onto the bench and just meeting players in the change-rooms and even meeting all the commentators,” Darby said.

His father thanked the community, St John’s Primary School and the Euroa Junior Football Club, saying they had all been great in supporting Darby.

“To play at the best level of football he can, it’s been a dream his whole life,” Mr Hoare said.

He even has proof, sharing with The Euroa Gazette a photo of Darby as a baby, sleeping with a football nestled under one arm.

“That’s how he slept every single night as a kid,” he said.

Tickets

View program & buy tickets online: www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au

Telephone: 1800 065 993

Children under 13yrs must be with an adult

THE

PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY

Sat 12 August, 7:30pm

Sun 13 August, 4pm

The story of an unremarkable man who sets off on a remarkable journey. Harold lives a life without purpose until he learns an old friend is dying and vows that in walking across England to see her, his journey can keep her alive.

NO HARD FEELINGS

Sat 19 August, 7:30pm & Sun 20 August, 4pm Maddie thinks she’s found troubles when she discovers an intriguing job listing: wealthy helicopter parents looking for someone to “date” their introverted 19-year-old son, Percy, and bring him out of his shell before he leaves for college.

Drama 108 mins

Comedy 103

THE BIG LEAGUES: Darby (right) and the team’s vice-captain Kobe Treeby (left) were invited to sit on the bench at two AFL games with AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan.

THE TEAM: Of 750 school students from across Victoria who trialled to compete in the team, only 23 made the cut.

Come celebrate our Tank and Tobin magpie sculpture!

Are you ready to celebrate?

Because we are too!

On Friday, August 11 our giant Tank and Tobin magpie sculpture is being installed and we want you all there for the unveiling.

Head to the Seven Creeks Park from 4pm to 5pm for the official opening, followed by the Euroa Chamber of Business and Commerce’s party from 5pm to 7pm. There will be food trucks, music, drinks vendors and more. Read more at: www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au.

Looking for a local club or group?

Did you know one of the features of our website is a community directory. It’s a listing of clubs, community groups and businesses in the Strathbogie community. You can search through local listings, or list your club or business. It’s really simple just head to www.strathbogie. vic.gov.au and click on the ‘find a business, club or group’ button.

Council Meeting

The next meeting of Strathbogie Shire Council is scheduled for Tuesday, August 15, 2023, at 6pm at the Euroa Community Conference Centre. The gallery will be open to the public. The meeting will be livestreamed at www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au and we encourage community members to watch the meeting via this option. The agenda for this meeting will be available on Council’s website by close of business the Friday prior to the meeting. Hard copies of the agenda will no longer be available, however, a limited number of iPads with the Agenda uploaded will be on hand for public use at the meeting. $10K community grants close soon (qr code grants)

Don’t forget our The $1000 Quick Response Grants are now open yearround, and approval is by the CEO ensuring they are quick and accessible. The funding pool for Event Grants has also increased from $30,000 annually to $50,000, with event organiser able to apply for up to $5000. For more information head to our website.

New ARTBOX exhibition coming to Euroa

A new exhibition is set to launch in ARTBOX – Council’s travelling exhibition space – featuring artist Ann Cremean’s ‘Open Space’. It is the second artist to exhibit in the space after it was launched last month. Open Space is a series of works created in 2022/23 in response to the natural environment. It will show at ARTBOX in the Seven Creeks Park, Euroa which can be viewed by the public 24/7 through the glass pane windows. The exhibition’s soundtrack loop will be accessible by QR code on a window decal, so viewers will be able to interact by playing this through their own device. To find out more about ARTBOX or to express your interest in using the space, visit https://www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/ community/arts-and-culture/artbox/ ARTBOX is being brought to Strathbogie Shire with Creative Victoria grant funding.

1800 065 993

New Emergency Management Plan

A new Municipal Emergency Management Plan was approved for Strathbogie Shire by the Hume Regional Emergency Management Planning Committee.

The plan provides an overview of previous emergencies that have taken place in the shire and sets out Council’s role at the local level in the context of regional and state emergency management planning.

A copy of the plan can be found at www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au

Jubilee Park Play Equipment –Official Opening

You’re invited to join us for the official opening of new play equipment at Jubilee Park in Avenel. It’s our opportunity to thanks the local community and children for their help in choosing the best equipment for our community. We’re grateful for the positive community input that has ensured better outcomes for the Avenel playground and community.

Join us to celebrate on Thursday, August 10 at 12.30pm.

Work with us

We’re looking for talented people to join our team:

Procurement Assistant.

Permanent Part Time (16 hours per fortnight).

Band 4 - $31.34 per hour + 11% super.

Applications close 9am, 7 August 2023

Revenue Administration Officer.

Permanent Part Time (50 hours per fortnight). Band 4 - $31.34 per hour + 11% super. Applications close 9am, 7 August 2023

OHS Officer. Permanent Part Time (46 hours per fortnight). Band 6 - $39.93 per hour + 11% super. Applications close 9am, 14 August 2023.

Risk Officer. Permanent Part Time (30 hours per fortnight). Band 6 - $39.93 per hour + 11% super. Applications close 9am, 14 August 2023. Visit www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au for further details and instructions on how to apply.

Strathbogie Shire Council is an equal opportunity employer and a Child Safe organisation. We value diversity in our workplace and will consider flexible working arrangements.

Tenders now open

The following tenders are now open at Strathbogie Shire

Council:

quotation provision of

(Used) 5T mass minimum excavator.

Lump sum (Contract Number 23/2409). Closing: 16/08/20230

for the delivery of Municipal Settlement Plan (Contract Number 23/24-04). Closing: 09/08/2023.

roads reseal program (contract number 23/2402). Closing 23/08/2023).

Strathbogie Shire works within Procurement Best Practice guidelines. All questions MUST be directed in writing through the online portal. Tenders can only be lodged online through the Tendersearch portal.

www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au

info@strathbogie.vic.gov.au

Follow us for regular updates

@strathbogieshire

know”: businesses on Binney Street parking closure

By DARREN CHAITMAN

SEVERAL local businesses were not too happy with Strathbogie Shire Council after they were not informed of a parking closure on Binney Street on Thursday, August 3.

Parking was closed on the east side of the street, roughly between Mawsons Bakery and the Euroa Newsagency, from about 9am-3pm while works were completed for the Binney Street streetscape renewal project which began late last month.

Traffic was restricted to a single lane and pedestrian crossings in the affected area were closed for part of the day as council installed underground cabling to provide power for event lighting and seasonal decorations.

Weekend Local café worker Gill Dunnachie said the parking closure affected the café’s business so significantly that the workers went home at 12.30pm, telling owner Dayle Tame it was not worth paying them wages when there were so few customers.

“We didn’t know – none of us knew what was going to happen, we didn’t know how long it was going to go for and the lovely Steph from the Chamber [of Commerce] came around and told us what was going on,” Ms Dunnachie said.

Euroa Chamber of Commerce president Steph Swift said she had sought more information from council after chamber members informed her of the closure.

“A couple of our members called me early and mentioned what was happening, so I straight away called the appropriate people within council to find out what was going on and how long it was going to last so we could inform members,” Ms Swift said.

“After I got some answers, I popped in to see a couple of the affected stores and the people that had contacted me earlier, to inform them about what I’d found.

“The chamber committee didn’t know that that street closure was happening … we acted on it as soon as we found out.

“We were really disappointed, because we’re always asking for more and

better communication.”

Fare Enough café owner Broderick Floyd said his business was affected, but sales picked up again after he posted on social media about the closure, encouraging people to come into the café.

“Thankfully, a lot of the community came in and supported us,” Mr Floyd said.

“To give people their credit, a lot of people from the Shire – there’s a lot of good people at the Shire who aren’t involved in some of the issues that go on – came in to support us and were apologetic for things that they didn’t need to apologise for at all.

“But it was really good that the community supported us, knowing that it was going to be a tough day.”

Mr Floyd said he is in favour of the streetscape renewal project, but wants to see better communication regarding the works.

“The problem wasn’t the works, because we’re very supportive of the works,” he

said.

“The problem was the communication in regards to the closure of the parking spaces.

“The lessons of last year’s problems with the eastern end pedestrian crossing communications weren’t learnt.”

A similar sentiment was expressed by Mawson’s Bakery owner David Mawson.

“There’s been no consultation about it and I’m losing sales,” he said.

“I think it’ll be nice once it’s finished, but it’s just not the right way to go about it.”

Strathbogie Shire Council has apologised and acknowledged businesses were not informed of the parking closure.

“Council apologises for the inconvenience to local businesses and members of our community,” Mayor Laura Binks said.

“We also acknowledge and apologise for not alerting business owners to the closure.”

PARKING CLOSED: On Thursday last week, parking was closed on the east side of the street, roughly between Mawsons Bakery and the Euroa Newsagency, from about 9am-3pm.

PHOTO: Gill Dunnachie

IT’S NOT FARE: Fare Enough barista and all-rounder Daniel Govier (left) and owner Sarah Floyd were not informed of a parking closure on Binney Street.

PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

“We didn’t

Saywell likely to be next Strathbogie Shire councillor

By DARREN CHAITMAN

SHIRLEY Saywell has told The Euroa Gazette she is keen to accept the role of Seven Creeks ward councillor.

At this stage, Ms Saywell plans to inform the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) of her intention to fill the position, but is first seeking advice from the VEC and Strathbogie Shire Council CEO Julie Salomon regarding leave she has planned until early October.

Before the extraordinary vacancy for Seven Creeks Ward opened up following the resignation of Kristy Hourigan late last month, Ms Saywell had planned leave from her work and she intends to still take leave before she would resume duties as a councillor.

On Monday last week, Ms Saywell was invited by the VEC to complete and return a written declaration within 14 days of the date of the written invitation, stating she is still qualified to be a councillor.

In accordance with the Local Government Act

COUNCILLOR VACANCY

UPDATE: Shirley Saywell has told The Euroa Gazette she is keen to accept the role of Seven Creeks ward councillor. She is is first seeking advice from the VEC and Strathbogie Shire Council CEO Julie Salomon regarding leave she has planned until early October.

2020, if she does not return the written declaration within 14 days, a by-election will be held.

Ms Saywell, who is owner of local business Brady & Kibble and president of Euroa Arboretum and Euroa Environment Group, is the only remaining 2020 election candidate for Seven Creeks ward.

In 2020, her priorities for council included smart en-

ergy development, responsible land management, a vibrant townscape and tourism initiatives.

Ms Saywell told The Euroa Gazette her priorities remain the same.

“My message then was ‘get informed and get involved’ because clever options in business, energy and tourism are ours for the taking,” she said.

“I still strongly believe that and will put my energy into building and progressing innovation and resilience.”

Ms Hourigan resigned late last month, citing “inhouse political bureaucracy”, gender bias and newly increased work commitments as contributing to her decision.

On August 15, municipal monitor Peter Stephenson is expected to deliver a report to the Minister for Local Government that will decide the fate of Strathbogie Shire Council, with some councillors having speculated that the termination of employment of councillors is a possible outcome from the monitor’s report.

TWO DAYS TO GO: The Tank and Tobin magpie sculpture is set to be installed in the Seven Creeks Park on Friday, August 11. The official council opening will be held on the same day from 4pm to 5pm, with a Chamber of Commerce celebration following from 5pm to 7pm in the Seven Creeks Park.

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

New station brings back old memories

I AM writing in response to “New Euroa ambulance station on the way” (The Euroa Gazette, 2/8).

I used to live in the ambulance station (Templeton Street) when it was newly built in the 60s.

My father, Paddy Furphy was the station officer.

I remember the opening day for the “new ambulance station”; it was windy and the local band played They asked mum for pegs to hold down music sheets to the stands.

I do not remember being woken up by late night ambulance call-outs – I think we knew it was part of dad’s job, so we were not concerned.

I remember the huge two-way radio we had next to the lounge room. No mobiles back in those days.

Issues such as what sort of times do we want trains to run, are we prepared to change at Seymour, are we prepared to have coach services that don’t stop at all towns, are the current V/Locities up to the comfort of a four hour plus journey, and is there any value in actually canvassing the passengers on the trains by talking to them and getting their views, rather than relying on a computer survey.

Perhaps a good start is to find out whether our shire has a public transport policy, or even if they care.

If they do, would they be prepared to host such a meeting so we can take a series of concrete proposals to Ms Cleeland, who can then go back to Spring Street and show she actively represents us.

Furthermore, perhaps we should emulate the good denizens of Shepparton who organised a mass turn-out to go by train to Spring Street in their pyjamas in a good-natured, vocal and original display of people-power.

We have had support from our local member, Annabelle Cleeland and hope for some action in the very near future.

The Anderson Street crossing is an accident waiting to happen, with our newly reemployed crossing supervisor stating that speeding traffic is the biggest danger to those using the crossing.

Therese Stewart, principal, St John’s Primary Euroa

Why the “no” campaign doesn’t add up

I AM having trouble understanding the opposition to the Voice.

Having been both an employee and an employer, I am acutely aware that if management wants the best outcome from decisions that need to be made, it will consult those who will be affected by the proposed changes.

Est. 1897

45-47 Railway Street, Euroa VIC 3666

Classifieds: 5723 0101 Ext 1 or classifieds@nemedia.com.au

General Advertising: 5795 3041 Ext 3

Editorial: 5795 3041 Ext 2 or editor@euroa-gazette.com.au www.euroagazette.com.au www.nemedia.com.au

NEWSPAPER DEADLINES:

Display ads - 3pm Thursday

Classifieds - 3pm Monday

Sports results - 10am Monday

General news - 12 noon Friday

Letters - 10am Monday

Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 45-47 Railway Street, Euroa, 3666.

Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner.

Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.

YOUR GAZETTE TEAM

The call was VL3GD Euroa and the ambulance was Car 8.

Dad was the only one on duty but there were “relief” drivers on call, if required.

The previous ambulance station was on the corner of Anderson and Brock streets.

I lived there when we first came to Euroa.

Heather Jasper, Cobram

More needs to be done to solve V/Line issues

ANNABELLE Cleeland’s article about improving V/Line services on the NorthEast line and her online petition is a start. However, we need far more from our local community, the local councils along the line, the state representatives from Wallan to Wodonga and the Federal representatives from our area, to achieve anything.

I have included the feds as the track is ARTC’s, which is a major reason for all our problems.

What I suggest is that Annabelle Cleeland coordinate a series of community gatherings in towns along the line so real people, rather than electronic surveys, filler-ins, can meet and actually have a discussion about what we want.

They now have a much improved service with seven all-train trips a day, plus four where you change at Seymour to finish the journey by coach.

Ms Cleeland and the Coalition will not be in opposition forever and we need a commitment from them to implement a service that the train travellers along the North East line want, and need, for the 21st century.

Iain Atkin, Violet Town Anderson Street needs flashing lights for safety

THE safety of our young people is of the utmost importance with St John’s Primary School lobbying the government for a number of years for flashing lights along Anderson Street.

This is a VicRoads responsibility and one they have failed to act on, even after a number of near misses with children from the school.

Anderson Street is a major thoroughfare for local traffic and large, oversized vehicles often traveling over the speed limit.

In the event of a freeway closure, as has happened twice in the last 12 months the traffic volume increases dramatically.

It is just good people and business management 101.

If the Minerals Council of Australia didn’t think that lobbying the government worked in providing better outcome for them, it would not be spending the large amounts of money it does.

The only difference with the Voice is that it gives the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people a guaranteed opportunity to be consulted - nothing else.

If further justification for the Voice was needed, read the recent report from the Productivity Commission on Closing the Gap.

The report is scathing on the lack of progress in many areas which it attributes, amongst other things, to a lack of meaningful consultation with indigenous people.

The consequence of this has been a waste of taxpayers’ money.

Forget the many red herrings being advanced, the establishment of the Voice provides the opportunity for better policy outcomes and better use of taxpayer funds.

In contrast to the claims by the No campaign, better policy outcomes will result in a less divisive and less divided society by removing the current inequities in outcomes for indigenous peoples.

Jim Shovelton, Euroa

ON SALE AT:

Euroa: Euroa Newsagency

Violet Town: Violet Town Corner Store

Avenel: Avenel Newsagency

Benalla: Benalla Newsagency

Strathbogie: Strathbogie Store

Nagambie: Nagambie Newsagency

Longwood: Longwood Newsagency

Merton: Merton General Store

Seymour: Seymour Newsagency

Shepparton: Lovell’s Newsagency

Wangaratta: Edgar’s Newsagency

The Gazette is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council.

If you believe the standards may have been breached, you may approach the Gazette itself or contact the council by email at info@presscouncil.org.au or by phone on (02) 9261 1930.

Member

lifted off my shoulders

Edward Higgins DIRECTOR

Darren Chaitman JOURNALIST

Lorraine Millard ADVERTISING ACCOUNTS MANAGER

Dale Mann PHOTOGRAPHER Nick McCabe SPORT EDITORIAL

SHE GOT THE CAR: Communities in Euroa, Longwood and beyond came together in May in a fundraising effort to help single mother Shae Milland buy a disability–friendly car suitable for her son Caleb (right), who has cerebral palsy. Ms Milland has shared the exciting news that with the funds raised, she has purchased the car, pictured here with her daughter Ella (5) sitting next to Caleb. “This has been a massive weight

and I feel much less stressed now,” Shae said. “I will never ever forget the generosity of you all.”

Stay

go further.

Ambulance response times remain poor in Strathbogie Shire

By DARREN CHAITMAN

NEW data from the fourth quarter of 2022/23 shows a slight improvement in the average ambulance response time in Strathbogie Shire, but Ambulance Victoria continues to fall well under their 15-minute target response time in the area.

The average response time between April and June this year was 24 minutes and 5

seconds, down from from 24 minutes and 44 seconds during the same period in 2022.

But Ambulance Victoria Hume regional director Narelle Capp said the fourth quarter of 2022/23 was Ambulance Victoria’s third busiest on record, with ambulance responses impacted by a 5.5 per cent increase in demand compared to the previous quarter.

“Every winter we see de-

Does Euroa need a community house?

By COMMUNITY LEARNING EUROA

COMMUNITY Learning

Euroa (CLE), which has been staffed by volunteers, has been providing Adult Basic Education and the Be Connected Program in the town for the past three years and is now looking to gauge support to establish a neighbourhood house in Euroa.

This initiative, which has been identified by the public, could provide a venue and admin hub for many Euroa organisations as well as a drop in centre and venue for possible government services.

A public meeting will be held on Tuesday afternoon, August 29 at 5pm at the William Pearson Band Hall in Kirkland Avenue.

This meeting will assess the need and community support for such a venture.

Neighbourhood houses, otherwise known as community centres, bring people together to meet, socialize and mobilise to achieve positive community outcome.

They can provide accredited and nonaccredited courses.

They strengthen community spirit, pride and connection.

Many neighbourhood houses are also involved in

community partnerships with other local service providers, small businesses, and community groups to maximise their impact.

CLE is asking the Euroa Community to take part in a discussion on both the need for a neighbourhood house and how we might achieve this together.

Some of the services to be included might be playgroups, mums and bubs programs, Centrelink service and location for visiting specialists, support service referrals, computer access and training, and a drop-in centre.

There may well be other uses revealed through discussion.

CLE has identified people and organisations within the community who would ideally be involved in the development of and use of such a facility.

These partnerships have been the driving force behind the push.

If you have an interest in developing a neighbourhood house, either as an individual or part of an organisation which could benefit from this collaborative venture, please put this meeting on your calendar.

For more information, email Community Learning Euroa on contact.cleuroa@ gmail.com.

mand rise, and this year is still challenging as COVID-19 and influenza spreads, and more staff are furloughed due to illness,” Ms Capp said.

Ambulance Victoria data shows ambulance response times have been high in the Strathbogie Shire for at least 10 years.

In 2013, the average response time in the shire was was 21 minutes and 16 seconds.

The following year, in the period between July 2014 and July 2015, there was a significant worsening in the average time, with the average response time recorded as 34 minutes and 31 seconds.

Average response times in the Strathbogie Shire have fluctuated in the intervening years up until 2023, but have seldom reached the target time of under 15 minutes.

In the Hume region, re-

sponse times improved in this quarter in the Indigo, Mitchell, Benalla, Moira, and Greater Shepparton Local Government Areas (LGAs).

The only of these LGAs to achieve Ambulance Victoria’s target response time of 15 minutes was Greater Shepparton, where the average response time between April and June was 14 minutes and 32 seconds, an improvement of 50 seconds compared to

the same quarter last year.

Earlier this year, State MP for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland criticised the State Government for failing to significantly improve ambulance response times in regional Victoria.

“I certainly don’t think people across Strathbogie should be waiting close to 25 minutes for an ambulance in an emergency,” Ms Cleeland said.

Lindsay Park stalwart So Si Bon retires

By NICK MCCABE

AFTER 95 starts that reaped $2.3 million in prizemoney, fan favourite and Lindsay Park Racing stalwart So Si Bon has been retired.

Lindsay Park made the announcement on Thursday, August 3, saying the 10-year-old who touched many people’s lives, especially the owners and stable team, will be dearly missed.

Wishing him a happy retirement after an incredible career, co-trainer Ben Hayes was full of praise for the gelding and the impact he’s had at Lindsay Park.

“He has been an incredibly special horse to us all,” he said.

“Remarkably he has been the soundest horse to ever be trained here at Lindsay Park Euroa, which is highlighted through his durability and consistency over the years.”

“To have run at Stakes level 61 times throughout his 95-start career is simply amazing and very rare in the racing industry,” Hayes went on to add.

The statement released by the stable confirmed the stable had been keep-

ing an extra close eye on the galloper, in particular his wellbeing whilst taking his career run by run.

Inevitably all involved concluded now was the perfect time for So Si Bon to retire as his risk of sustaining injury seemed to be increasing as confirmed by stable vet Dave Mckellar.

In other news for the stable the first of August marked the beginning of a new era, closing the door on the 2022/23 season.

According to stable manager Gareth Downey, total prizemoney earned by the stable’s horses more than doubled this season from the previous season.

In 2021/22 it was just over $8.4 million – and that increased to just over $17.4 million in 2022/23.

Total winners for the season jumped to 155, up from 117 the previous season, while the total number of stakes wins jumped markedly to 18, up from seven the previous season.

These 18 stakes wins ranked Lindsay Park 6th on the national trainer premiership for stakes wins, and second of all Victorian trainers, with only the very

large Maher/Eustace operation ahead of them.

One area the team specifically focused on was the 2-year-old crop of runners in 2022/23.

After moderate results in 2021/22, the team reviewed and modified the way they had been developing and training the 2-year-olds.

This achieved superb results with the stable having 17 individual 2-year-old winners for the season, an increase from

seven in 2021/22.

These 2-year-old winners included three individual stakes winners, headlined by the Group 1 Blue Diamond winner Little Brose.

The stable’s headline horse for the season was Mr Brightside, who earned just over $5.7 million for his season alone.

His key successes were in winning the All-Star Mile, followed by his backto-back victory in Sydney’s Doncaster Mile.

IN A GOOD PADDOCK: So Si Bon and Tom Ryan pictured together at Lindsay Park Racing.

PHOTO: Lindsay Park Facebook

HARD TO CATCH: On his day So Si Bon proved hard to catch for many of his rivals over the course of an illustrious career.

PHOTO: Racenet

August

9 wawa biik tour is on, offering Taungurung-led cultural experiences in Euroa and Nagambie. We’ll yarn, we’ll walk, we’ll laugh, we’ll listen, we’ll learn and we’ll reflect. Call 03 5784 1466 or book via www.wawabiik.com.au

11-13

Euroa Little Theatre presents ‘Seaside Rendezvous’ at The School House, Clifton Street, Euroa on Friday and Saturday August 11 and 12 at 7pm and Sunday, August 13 at 2pm. Tickets $10 cash at the door. Enq. Mary 5795 2545.

23 Longwood Seniors Adventure by bus to the Yarra Glen Chocolate Factory. All welcome. Enq: Margaret 0407 529 991.

27 Jimmy and Jarrod’s Country and Rock n Roll Show. Featuring Sandi Dodd with supporting act Jimmy and Jarrod and live band: The Night Owls. Sunday 27 August 12 noon to 5pm at Longwood Community Centre. $15.00 per head, bookings

essential. BYO drinks and nibbles – tea & coffee available. BBQ lunch available for purchase. Contact Jimmy on 0412 723 356.

28 Euroa Probus Club provides you with the opportunity to join a social club in your local community to meet retirees on a regular basis, listen to interesting speakers and join together in activities. Meetings are held 4th Monday of each month, 10am at Uniting Church Hall, Kirkland Ave Euroa. Enq: Fred 0408 443 288 or Stan 0427 884 075.

September

4 Longwood Senior’s monthly two course luncheon held at Longwood Community Centre at $12.30pm - all seniors welcome. Cost per head $16. Enq: Margaret 0407 529 991.

6 RUFFARTZ presents Sass and Secrets. A wickedly funny cabaret featuring awe inspiring magic, mentalism, fabulous singing and physical comedy mayhem! Not to be missed. Ruffy Public Hall. Doors open 7.30pm. Performance commences 8pm. Reservations: Email Kelly: ruffartztickets@ gmail.com or Mob: 0407 017 090. Adults $25, Students/Pensioners $15. BYO Nibbles and drinks. Coffee and cake available at intermission $5.

25 Euroa Probus Club provides you with the opportunity to join a social club in your local community to meet retirees on a regular basis, listen to interesting speakers and join together in activities. Meetings are held 4th Monday of each month, 10am at Uniting Church Hall, Kirkland Ave Euroa. Enq: Fred 0408 443 288 or Stan 0427 884 075.

October

2 Longwood Senior’s monthly two course luncheon held at Longwood Community Centre at $12.30pm - all seniors welcome. Cost per head $16. Enq: Margaret 0407 529 991.

20-22

Euroa Golf Club are hosting the Power Industry association (PIA) Golf State Championships for 150 golfers. This event was washed out last year. The golf course will be closed to members and green fee players on these days.

23 Euroa Probus Club provides you with the opportunity to join a social club in your local community to meet retirees on a regular basis, listen to interesting speakers and join together in activities. Meetings are held 4th Monday of each month, 10am at Uniting Church Hall, Kirkland Ave Euroa. Enq: Fred 0408 443 288 or Stan 0427 884 075.

28-29

Euroa Agricultural Society Inc will hold the 131st Euroa Agricultural Show.

November

6 Longwood Senior’s monthly two course luncheon held at Longwood Community Centre at $12.30pm - all seniors welcome.

Cost per head $16. Enq: Margaret 0407 529 991.

August cattle sale buoyed by warmer weather

Unseasonably warm weather sees cattle market confidence yggrow

SALES at Euroa’s monthly store cattle sale on Wednesday, August 2 were buoyed by unseasonably warm recent weather.

Elders Euroa auctioneer and livestock manager Joe Allen said a good selection of heavier cattle and a good turnout on the sale day, with buyers and sellers drawn outside by the weather, resulted in higher prices.

“It was a bit dearer in general, there was a good selection of 300-400kg steers there and the dearer trend lined up with the heavier cattle,” he said.

“It’s normally pretty quiet [at this time of year] due to it being winter, but I think the weather’s probably encouraged the numbers to come into the market in the last two to three weeks.

“And the result of the sale was as we’d expect – once we see a little bit of growth, we’ll see a bit more confidence in and demand for store cattle.”

About 1300 cattle were yarded, according to Mr Allen, which is higher than normally expected at this time of year.

“We were getting $3.60 to $3.90 for steers in the mid-300s, then once we got under 300 it was probably around $3.40 to $3.20, so that shows you where the thinking is in the market.”

Despite this better confidence in the market for heavier cattle, Dan Ivone of Nutrien Ag Ivone Agencies in Myrtleford, who bought about 120 cattle at the sale, said he was not ready to buy heavier cattle in the current market conditions.

“We’re buying the lower end, lower priced cattle, just to put back into producers’ paddocks that are selling heavier cattle at the minute,” Mr Ivone said.

“There’s a lot of uncertainty in the market, that’s probably why it’s a bit hard to buy cattle at the minute.” He added that he

Lovell calls for safety audit to investigate dangerous stretch of Euroa-Mansfield Road

SPEAKING in Parliament last week, member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell called for a safety audit to be conducted on a dangerous stretch of the Euroa-Mansfield Road between Ridge Road and the Gooram Falls carpark.

In a constituency question to the Minister for Roads Melissa Horne, Ms Lovell put forward the view of Gooram CFA captain Michael Stubbe.

“It is the view of local community members, in particular the Gooram CFA Michael Stubbe, that lowering the speed limit to 60kph for this section of the road would make it safer for all road users,” she said.

“Will the minister ensure a safety audit is completed of the Euroa-Mansfield Road between Ridge Road and the Gooram Falls visitor area, with a view to making this section of road a 60kph speed zone?”

The minister for roads is due to provide a written response to the

Last week, member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell called for a safety audit to be conducted on a dangerous stretch of the Euroa-Mansfield Road between Ridge Road and the Gooram Falls carpark.

question in mid-August.

Last month, a man died in a single vehicle crash on this stretch of the road just a month after Mr Stubbe had told The Euroa Gazette “there are going to be more fatalities” in this location unless the speed limit was lowered.

Mr Stubbe said the CFA were preparing a submission to VicRoads – with the support of Strathbogie Shire Council, Ambulance Victoria and Euroa police – to have the speed limit in this stretch lowered.

The winding stretch of northbound road, where there have been several car accidents this year, follows a change in speed limit from 60kph to 100kph.

The submission to VicRoads, which Mr Stubbe believes is still in progress, will argue the 60kph

speed limit ends too early and should be extended to cover this stretch.

Mr Stubbe said it was “excellent” Ms Lovell had raised the matter in parliament.

“I certainly support [a safety audit] and the sooner the better – I think it’s a priority and ought to be attended to promptly,” he said.

He said he was contacted about the matter by the office of Wendy Lovell after Ms Lovell read about it in the newspaper.

A spokesperson for Ms Lovell later confirmed that newspaper was The Euroa Gazette, and added that Ms Lovell had also been contacted by local constituents about the matter.

Mr Stubbe said last week, Annabelle Cleeland contacted him to advise she had written to Transport Minister Jacinta Allan asking her to take urgent action in reviewing the speed limit on this stretch of the road, after he had written to Ms Cleeland.

SOLD TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER: These black balder steers at the August store cattle sale in Euroa were two of about about 1300 cattle yarded.

PLAYING IT SAFE: Dan Ivone of Nutrien Ag Ivone Agencies in Myrtleford only bought lower end, lighter cattle due to current market conditions, despite better confidence in the market for heavier cattle at this month’s cattle sale in Euroa.

PHOTOS: Darren Chaitman

had missed the last few Euroa cattle sales due to the weather, saying it had been too wet to handle cattle.

DANGEROUS STRETCH: This picture shows one of several car crashes on the stretch this year.

PHOTO: Gooram CFA

ADDRESSING PARLIAMENT:

Snoop Dogg’s Cadillac is coming to the Euroa Show and Shine

By RAY READ

THINGS are on the MOVE at the Australian National Show and Shine Euroa, with Shepparton’s Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE) partnering to present one of the main attractions for the event.

The quirky bright orange 1964 Cadillac Coupe De Ville convertible, complete with 390CI V8 and modified lowrider suspension will be on show on Sunday, October 1.

The car was used extensively as part of the Menulog ad campaigns in print, online and tv platforms over the last couple of years.

American rapper Snoop Dogg was the driver of the Menulog Caddy, but unfortunately, he won’t be at the show, yo.

Australian National Show and Shine president, Ian Langlands, said that the iridescent orange Caddy will be one of several top-class vehicles which will be featured in what will be known as “Elite Street”, the temporary renaming of Euroa’s Bury Street for the duration of the Euroa Show and Shine event.

Other vehicles in Elite Street will be entrants in the best 1960s car and bike feature, in keeping with this year’s theme of the 1960s, together with invited previous winners of the “best in show” award.

This will include the win-

ner of the 2019 show, the HG Monaro of Patrick O’Brien, the car which has won the “Best Monaro in Australia” title on more than one occasion.

As in previous years, there will be prizes for the best male and female costumes

Agents Choice | property guide

30 Brookleigh Road, Strathbogie

A truly remarkable lifestyle property, nestled in Strathbogie. As you drive through the front gate of this property, you will be greeted by lush greenery and countryside views. The maintained gardens and manicured lawns create an environment for relaxation and entertaining. The house comprises 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, walkin-robes and multiple linen presses. It has Strathbogie winters. In summer, the house is regulated by split systems and ceiling fans. For entertaining, there is a wine bar, gazebo, separate outdoor entertaining commercial size cool room. The land is fertile, divided into six main paddocks orchard containing 45 trees will ensure you never have a shortage of fruit and a small vegetable garden.

for the featured 1960s decade, and trophies for the best 60s car and bike.

“Most of our sponsors (from previous years) are back on board and we have picked up some new ones, which is fantastic,” Mr Langlands said.

“Our committee is working hard at recruiting some great vehicles, and we hope to be able to give full details by early September.

“A list of all trophies will be available shortly.”

New posters and flyers for this year’s event are in the

process of being printed, and will be distributed in August.

Previews of the posters can be seen on the Australian National Show and Shine Facebook and webpages.

Online bookings are now open, with a QR code being displayed on the posters, where entrants can just take a scan or picture of the code and be taken direct to the booking site.

Defying inflation, Euroa Show and Shine entry prices are unchanged since 2016.

Display car including driver is $10, display bike including rider is $5 and general public is just $5, with kids free.

The Strathbogie Shire Council is again giving some serious support to the show, and this year will be presenting a new trophy, the Mayor’s Cup.

Other local sponsors include Euroa Clay Products, who are joining the show for the first time, Burtons IGA and Nutrien Ag Solutions. Continued support from other major sponsors includes Triple M Goulburn Valley, GMCU, Shepparton Volkswagen and Shannons Insurance.

Bowerbird Op Shop continues to support Euroa Health

Did you know that the Bowerbird Op Shop in Binney St Euroa is managed by unpaid volunteers and donates 100% of the proceeds from its sales to Euroa Health for the purchase of equipment?

We would like to thank the community who have donated &/or purchased items and the incredible Volunteers at the Bowerbird Op Shop. Below are two of the many items purchased by Euroa Health this year with proceeds from the Op Shop.

The Bowerbird Op Shop is always accepting donations of good quality items and needing new Volunteers. Please drop in and see the team at 55 Binney St Euroa or contact them by telephone (03) 5795 1681

each $16,648

FOR SALE: $1,700,000

Land Size: 93.3ac (approx)

Agent Contact:

SNOOP’S RIDE: The quirky bright orange 1964 Cadillac Coupe De Ville convertible, driven by Snoop Dogg in Menulog advertisements, will be at the Australian National Show and Shine Euroa.

The 1964 Cadillac Coupe De Ville convertible was featured in Menulog ad pgpgcampaigns

Church Services

ANGLICAN CHURCH

Saturday 12th August

2pm St Dunstan’s Violet Town

Sunday 13th August 9.15am St Paul’s Euroa

Wednesday 16th August

10am Eucharist St Paul’s Euroa Enq: 5704 0330

www.anglicaneuroa.org.au

All welcome

BAPTIST CHURCH

31 Kennedy Street, Euroa

Sunday August 13th, 10am

Tuesday: 9.30am Prayer, 10.30am Bible Study.

Listen to Vision Radio 88.4 FM

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST

Services at Kelvin View Hall

Sunday August 13th

10.30am Morning Worship

Everyone welcome

Pastor: Murray Broughton 5795 1950

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Balmattum

Every Sunday 3pm Worship

Enq: Rev. Stephen McDonald 5762 6275

Yea Presbyterian Church, 9am

St Andrew’s Seymour, 11.15am Nagambie inquiries to: Bonnie Purbrick 5794 2544 or Bill Day 5794 2070

CATHOLIC CHURCH

St John’s, Euroa

Friday 12.30pm Mass

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

St Malachy’s, Nagambie

Monday 10.30am Rosary

Wednesday 12.30pm Mass

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

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

Sunday of the month at 9am

St Attracta’s, Violet Town Mass on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 11am

Mass on the 5th Sunday at 10am

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

St Mary’s, Avenel

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

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

Sunday of the month at11am.

St Patrick’s, Longwood Mass on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 9am

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

Sunday of the month at 9am

Enquiries: Fr Tony Hill 5795 3048

UNITING CHURCH

St Andrew’s, Euroa

Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am

Everyone Welcome

Enq: Robyn Burke 5795 3103

Judi Ward 0437 686 072

St Andrew’s, Strathbogie

Service on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 11am All Welcome

Enq: Joan Wood 5790 5297

St Andrew’s Violet Town

Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am

All welcome

Enq: John Dunn 0419 362 866

EUROA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

Old School House, Clifton St Euroa

Every Sunday Meeting at 9.45am for prayer requests.

10am Service

Enquiries: Aaron 0493 101 663

Refugee Neil’s walk for freedom visits Nagambie

Sri Lankan refugee walking 1000km in campaign for permanent visas ggpgp

SRI Lankan refugee Neil Para from Ballarat passed through Nagambie on Sunday, staying the night in the Nagambie Anglican Church Hall, on his 1000km “walk for freedom”.

Mr Para walked through Heathcote, Costerfield and Graytown on Saturday, and arrived in Nagambie on Sunday, where he met Strathbogie Shire councillor Reg Dickinson.

He headed off on Monday morning for Wahring, then Murchison.

A spokesperson for Mr Para said he has been living in Australia in limbo for 11 years with his wife and three daughters with no visa, job or Medicare.

Through his walk for freedom, he is campaigning for permanent visas and life certainty for over 10,000 refugees “living in limbo” in Australia, the spokesperson said.

His final destination is the Marrickville electoral office of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, which he hopes to reach around September 8.

He plans to present the Prime Minister with a Change.org petition, which already has over 15,000 signatures.

Mr Para left Ballarat on August 1 and has been averaging 30km per day.

Lieke Janssen from Refugee Action Collective said getting permanent visas to refugees should be a priority for politicians.

“Neil is walking 1000km for himself, his family and 10,000

people that are still being left behind under Albanese’s ‘noone-will-be left-behind’ government,” she said. “1000km is gonna be challenging and hard but it’s nothing

compared with the challenges these refugees have been living with without a permanent visa for so long - every day they face consequences of living without this security.”

The walk is supported by Ballarat Rural Australians For Refugees.

Mr Para’s petition can be signed at: https://www.change. org/walkforfreedom.

One person dead after house fire in Benalla

ONE person died in a house fire in Benalla early on Saturday morning.

Emergency services, including five CFA units from Benalla and Glenrowan brigades, were called to Deas Street following reports of the fire at about 5.15am.

Paramedics were called to the scene at around 5.20am, but were cancelled, according to an Ambulance Victoria spokesperson.

The body of a person was located inside the property.

Detectives investigated the circumstances surrounding the fire, but later deemed the incident non-suspicious and ceased investigations, a police spokesperson said.

The area was cordoned off and a crime scene was established, before arson and explosives squad detectives attended the scene along with an arson chemist to determine the cause of the blaze.

Victoria Police referred further questions to the Coroners Court of Victoria, who were contacted for comment.

FREEDOM WALK: Sri Lankan refugee Neil Para (right) arrived in Nagambie on Sunday, where he met Strathbogie Shire councillor Reg Dickinson (left). He is walking 1000km to campaign for permanent visas and life certainty for over 10,000 refugees.

BUSKING ON BINNEY: Geelong guitarist Rod Gear performed on Binney Strett, outside Doug Stone Gold Maps, in the late morning on Friday last week for about 90 minutes. He told The Euroa Gazette he had performed his calming, intricate guitar compositions in Euroa about a dozen times over the years, as he enjoys travelling up the Hume Freeway and visiting the towns along it. “Country people are fantastic to play music to because they have more time than city people,” he said.

PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

NAGAMBIE NOTES

with Di Grant

P: 5794 1720

E: stardust2011@bigpond.com

THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK: Blessed are those who think before acting and pray before thinking, they will avoid many blunders.

PERSONALS: Happy 85th birthday to Denis Lee and happy 86th birthday to Janet Goddard.

Birthday greetings go to Lisette Brew, Matthew Morgan, Anne Foote, Terry Clonan, Marilyn Vassallo, Deakin Winch-Cunningham, Theresa Crick, Harper McCormick, Tim Nagle, Larry King, David Langley, Gerard Leahy, Scott Fullerton and Gabrielle Holt.

Sympathy goes to the family and friends of Beryl Bebbington who passed away recently.

WHAT WILL THE FUTURE HOLD?: John and I were talking about what will the future hold for our new great grandchild and her parents in the future.

We spoke about this with other grandparents around Nagambie and Avenel.

We came up with one word: change.

That will bring divisiveness, unsettled and troubled times for their generations.

Some of the issues and concerns we came up with covered petty party politicking, high cost of living and massive debt, unemployment, poor governance on all levels of government, climate change, looking after our environment, voting for the Voice referendum, dumping of Australia Day, the severing of ties with the monarchy, and the Commonwealth of Nations, and a push for us to become a republic and how sport seems to rule our lives much more.

Our list went on and so did our concerns.

We were saddened that many people have become homeless, others very materialistic, that belief in a faith has dwindled, and so has the moral, ethical and principles of many.

So I think we do have a right to be worried for our young families, our towns and our country and what the future holds for them.

Don’t you?

IT’S A GOER - QUEEN’S MEMORIAL ROSE

GARDEN: I have called upon some volunteers from the memorial rose donors groups to see if they may be able to plant them starting August 18 in the nature strip.

It will require planting the roses and staking them to the metal stakes for support.

I would like to have a dedication on the anniversary week commemorating Her Majesty’s death in September 2022 (weather permitting) and invite all those who have supported this royal project in any way.

WHAT’S ON: The Avenel Make It, Bake It or Grow It market is on the second Sunday of each month.

August 11: senior citizens annual meeting at 1pm.

August 22: annual meeting of the Nagambie Recreation Reserve Committee of Management at 6pm.

August 27: Nagambie Farmers’ Market from 10am-2pm at Tahbilk Winery.

CHURCH NEWS: ANGLICAN: Wednesday, August 9: Mother’s Union, Mary Sumner day, Holy Trinity Cathedral Wangaratta.

10am Eucharist, 11am morning tea provided by MU members from Central Goulburn.

11.30am meeting, BYO lunch.

Thursday, August 24: Central Goulburn Mother’s Union Mary Sumner Day and Wave of Prayer Service St John’s Nagambie 1.30pm, BYO lunch.

CATHOLIC: ST MALACHY’S - 150 YEARS: St Malachy’s Catholic Church in Nagambie is to celebrate its 150th anniversary on November 19.

Bishop, Most Reverend, Shane Mackinlay of the Catholic Diocese of Sandhurst in Bendigo will say mass at 10am..

To commemorate this anniversary Rhonda Robinson and Mel Arnold are writing the history of St Malachy’s church and parish. They would like any information, photos and memorabilia for this project.

They would also like information about St Mary’s Avenel and St Patrick’s Moorilim.

Contact R Robinson on 0400 546 560 or M Arnold on 0400 610 455.

ON this week 25 years ago, it was reported that school crossing supervisor Ralph Mackrell retired, tending to the Clifton Street school crossing adjacent to Euroa Secondary College for the last time after the State Government pulled funding from the school crossing supervision program.

The article in the August 11, 1998 edition of the Gazette is an interesting footnote to events in present times, as controversy continues over Strathbogie Shire Council’s withdrawal of funding this year from their role in supervising the shire’s five school crossings (not including Euroa Secondary College, which did not have a school crossing supervised by council).

“With the volume of traffic decreased since the Euroa bypass, and the small amount of school children using the crossing, VicRoads withdrew funding from the crossing, as the usage did not meet the funding requirements,” the Gazette printed.

“The crossing has now reverted to a normal ‘flagged’ school crossing under the control of the secondary college.”

On the agriculture front, it was reported this week that Castle Creek sheep farm owner John Gross won the North East section of the Stock and

Land RASV commercial flock of the year.

Mr Gross still owns Castle Creek in present times and listed the property for sale in June, with an expected selling price of over $23 million.

Eight “enthusiastic ladies” attended a fabric painting class led by Valda Martin at the Euroa Community Education Centre on this week: Corrie Witlox, Nancy Evans, Enid Simpson, Julie Morrison, Margaret Hill, Denise Rigby, Ann Smith and Ann Hill.

In sport, several young men dressed as glamorous women are pictured at an event

named the “Miss Euroa Football Quest”.

“No further details of the competition itself have been provided, however this newspaper understands that the Quest is to become an annual event,” the Gazette printed.

Glamorous ladies pictured included Lyndon Kubeil, Jamie Tate, Adam Baker, John Tate, Ashley “Angie” Thompson and John Burns.

On the Gazette’s front page, the spotlight was on Madelaine Miller, a football trainer who trained the Longwood seniors, Euroa under 11s and Euroa under 13s.

According to the front page story, the single mother and South-African immigrant had been a sports trainer for nine years, after leaving a 24-year career in nursing.

“Taking great pleasure in participating in sports over many years, she enjoys the fresh air and activity, at the same time believing that it helps to build character,” the Gazette printed.

“I am a lucky mum because [my son] Michael-James has always wanted to play footy and he has just completed his first year with the juniors, as I have.”

Shire’s Avenel Jubilee Park play space to open

Public is invited to celebrate new play equipment and shade sails pyqp

STRATHBOGIE Shire Council, in conjunction with Jubilee Park Committee of Management and Avenel Active, are inviting the community to attend the grand opening of new play equipment and shade sails at Jubilee Park.

The play equipment upgrades were made possible thanks to council and the shade sails were installed due to the work of Jubilee Park Committee of Management and Avenel Active, who secured a State Government grant.

Mayor Laura Binks said the local community, particularly children, helped to select the play equipment for the upgrade.

“Officers attended the Avenel Kindergarten and Avenel Primary School to conduct activities with children where they selected some of the equipment they would like to see in the park,” she said.

Among the new equipment is an all-abilities swing, stepper bridge, fixed hanging rings, scaling wall, wave bridge, fibreglass slide and inclined net bridge.

Installation of the shade sails at the Jubilee Park children’s playground was supported by Victori-

an Government funding through the Department of Health Community Shade Grants Program. Jubilee Park Committee of Management and Avenel Active thanked the many volunteers,

residents and visitors who contributed to the Avenel winter concert, which raised the funds needed to complete the shade sails project.

Everyone is welcome to attend

the official opening on Thursday, August 10 from 12.30pm at the Jubilee Park play space. There will be a chance to decorate a yummy cupcake to take home with you.

NEW PLAY SPACE: Jubilee Park has new play equipment and shade sails. The local community, particularly children, helped to select the play equipment for the upgrade, according to council.

Way Back Wednesday - a look back at what was making news 25 years ago this week.

Crossbenchers united on Games inquiry

By STEVE KELLY

THE crossbench in Victoria’s upper house of parliament have stood united in the support of an inquiry into the State Government’s withdrawal of Victoria as host of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, estimated to have cost the state $1 billion.

The Liberals and Nationals’ motion received support from every crossbench representative with the motion passing with a vote of 25 to 15 earlier this week.

The plan was to hold the Games at four regional hubs,

Violet Town tidings

By KIRSTY HARRIS

THE temperature reached 19 degrees Celsius in the first week of August?

Gardens seem to think spring has arrived, and lawn mowers have been getting a work out.

The crew running the Violet Town Pool are looking for lifeguards for the forthcoming season.

They are not just looking for young people to work over summer, but also more mature folk who can be mentors to people often in their first job.

Part time work available.

Express your interest at https://belgravialeisure.com.au/ become-a-lifeguard/ or phone 03 8727 7777.

Training provided.

There are tradies working in the old hardware store (more

however, in cancelling the Games in Victoria, the government cited cost blowouts and chose to withdraw despite costs being reduced if held in Melbourne.

The Commonwealth Games Federation claimed the government’s cost estimate of between $6b and $7b was overpriced.

When the State Government announced the Games in April 2022 the estimate was $2.6b.

A Select Committee of nine members will be appointed to inquire into, consider and report on the 2026 Common-

District News

recently Coco and Finch), so something must be happening there.

wealth Games and the progress of the regional infrastructure build, including but not limited to:

• the potential failures in governance, probity and procurement processes in the Victorian Government’s bid, contract, and termination of the 2026 Commonwealth Games;

• the impacts of the contract termination of the Commonwealth Games on Victoria’s reputation, business community, tourism, and major events;

• the Victorian Government advice received from government departments, councils,

agencies, consultants, and contractors;

• the potential of undue influence by the executive on the independence of the public service;

• the timeline, progress and budget of the Victorian Government’s regional infrastructure and housing build; and

• the impact on community, social, amateur, and professional sport in Victoria.

The committee will provide an interim report by April 30, 2024 and a final report by April 2025.

Wangaratta-based One Nation MP for Northern Victoria,

Coach’s box at the footy ground looks almost complete.

Rikki-Lee Tyrrell, spoke in parliament in support of the inquiry.

“After having made the commitment to host the Games despite reasonable public concern, the decision to then cancel the Games without prior external consultation is something of an unwanted ‘we told you so’ moment for the Victorian people,” Ms Tyrrell said.

“The people of Victoria deserve to be treated with due respect and they deserve to see the actionable information that the government used to make this decision.

“They alone should be allowed to decide whether this decision which is costing them $1b was the right course of action.”

Leader of the Opposition

John Pesutto said this inquiry will uncover the truth and provide Victorians with the basic answers and information that they deserve.

“The Andrews Government’s Commonwealth Games debacle has seriously damaged Victoria’s reputation and standing on the international stage, and through this inquiry, those responsible will be held to account,” he said.

The big land block on High St has sold.

Sadly, Bloom Hair has now closed permanently, so now we have a vacant store space available for rental.

A few well known VT people have been in hospital recently – all best wishes for future good health.

Anyone know where the water meter is in the garden between Milner & Co and Phong’s Pharmacy?

If so, please let Laurel know.

Lots of work happening at the bowls club on the top green – must be getting closer to the bowling season.

Concrete path finished between the railway station and petrol station.

The RSL has been digging holes in front of the brick wall between it and the GMCU – getting closer to the installation of their “women in war” mural and path.

Diary date: Daniel Barrett playing live @ The Ellen Frances - Violet Town Hote on Saturday, August 19, 7.30 pm.

Book now on 5798 1264.

Help us contribute to the International Day of Peace by making origami paper cranes.

Help us reach the target of 1000 paper cranes: come along to one of our paper crane-making events or make them at home and drop them off to your local library.

If you have an event or activity report which you would like included in this column, please contact me on 0422 208 779.

NEW EV STATIONS IN NAGAMBIE: Two new Evie Networks electric vehicle charging stations have been installed in the High Street carpark in Nagambie. Cr Sally-Hayes Burke is pictured on site. The High Street carpark was found to be the preferred location for the new stations after Strathbogie Shire Council sought votes from community members through their online Share Strathbogie platform, and also held a drop-in session in Nagambie for community members to offer feedback.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

N J Todd Funeral Directors

Member AFDA

Servicing Euroa & District since 1937

JOHNSON, Judith.

Members of the Friends of Euroa Library send their condolences to Judith’s family and friends.

Judith was a long-time member of the Friends and supporter of the Friends’ Already Read Bookshop.

MINCHINTON

Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate the life of Beryl Minchinton (Cann) on Friday, August 11, 2023 at 1.30pm at the Gooram Hall, Gooram.

Sports Writer/Journalist Part-time

The Euroa Gazette

North East Media

North East Media, publisher of the award winning The Euroa Gazette, is currently seeking a part-time journalist/writer to join the team in our Euroa branch.

The position specifically involves managing, collating, and editing contributed sports reports from organisations across the readership area including Avenel, Euroa, Longwood, Nagambie, Strathbogie and Violet Town.

The successful applicant will also need the confidence and skills to write their own sports stories, as and if needed.

The position is ideally suited to a journalist or competent writer with strong English skills who lives in the Euroa district, has a passion for sport and their community, and is able to work in the Euroa office newsroom each Monday.

Excellent verbal and written English, sound computer skills, solid general knowledge, and an ability to build rapport and networks quickly are highly desirable.

You will need to be well organised, able to work to deadlines, have strong attention to detail, and able to work flexible hours between 9am to 5pm.

A valid driver’s licence, photography and social media skills are advantageous.

North East Media is a leading independent family-owned media group with a commitment to community journalism.

Applications, including a cover letter and resume should be emailed to Jeff Zeuschner (Group editor, North East Media) at jzeuschner@nemedia.com.au

Thanks

POULTRY AUCTION

Sunday, August 20, 2023 at Euroa Showgrounds.

BOOKINGS

ESSENTIAL

Further information

Metrys Auctions 0416 151 696

HARLEY

JUNIOR SPORT

EUROA JUNIOR NETBALL

Under 11 Black

ON a warmer start to our morning Euroa Under 11s Blacks, we had a full team to take the court against Mooroopna Cats.

Isla playing GK and Jessica playing GD put up a strong contest against their shooters making it hard for them to get close to the ring.

With Lylah paying WD and Evie playing C both working together taking strong intercepts and getting the ball out of the defence area, down to our attacker’s. Euroa worked at making space and creating flow down the court to our end, unfortunately we were down this quarter Euroa 2 - Mooroopna Cats 3.

Euroa had a big change up of positions in the second quarter, Tully playing GS and Layla playing GA working well together in the goal ring, with Chloe playing WA and Crystal playing C doing a great job feeding the ball around the goal ring.

With the higher pressure Mooroopna defence had on them, they all did a great job.

Euroa 3 - Mooroopna 3 going into the 3rd quarter we had a change up again.

Isla playing WA and Crystal playing C feeding the ball well around goal ring. Jessica playing GS shooting a great goal to start the 3rd quarter off, Evie playing GA did a great job in her position working very hard and putting lots of effort into her position.

As the ball went down the court the team stuck to their players with Lylah playing GD and Zara playing GK taking great interceptions and making it hard for Mooroopna in their goal area.

2

Euroa 1 - Mooroopna Cats

Our fourth quarter unfortunately got away from us, but Euroa did a great job sticking together, Well done girls you all played so well Euroa 2 - Mooroopna 5,

Final score

Euroa 8 - Mooroopna 13

UNDER 11 WHITE

THE Euroa under 11 White took on Kyabram Rockets.

The girls started strong with a boost in confidence from the win last week and are really finding their feet as a team.

Sky’s hard work in C with several intercepts leading to goals from Chloe and Ella to keep Euroa in the chase against a strong Kyabram. Amelia GD and Lillian GK fought hard in defence holding back Kyabram’s taller opponents.

Second Quarter, the girls really stepped up the pace and took control of the game with fast ball movement through the centre.

Harper WD wrestle for the ball to force a turnover in defence, all the girls running wide and fast into space, onto Olivia in C, quick long pass to Zoe WA and over the top to Ella for the last goal of the quarter to level the scores at half time.

Third quarter, Kyabram

tried to bounce back, and the contest was even from both sides, the girls in defence Zoe, Sky and Olivia dug deep and were glued to their opponent intercepting their attacks.

Fourth Quarter, the game was tied at the start of the quarter with a real arm wrestle contest.

The always consistent Milly GS combined with Harper GA attacking to keep Euroa in the game against strong opponents and finished up one goal behind on the final siren. The last time these teams played in May, Euroa was beaten convincingly by a more experienced Kyabram.

The Euroa girls have made a huge improvement with their ball movement and ability to run into space and were unlucky to not get the win.

Keep up the great work girls.

FOOTBALL UNDER 14

Under 14s Euroa vs Tatura

By Troy Van Den Berghe

WHAT a marvellous day for football.

A bit of early morning dew on the ground, apart from that conditions were great.

A battle of the ladder leaders. Tatura undefeated and Euroa’s only loss was to Tatura.

It was going to be a classic. Both teams started off with great intent.

Tatura getting the clearance out of the centre propelled the ball forward.

Jack Sheridan took a strong mark reading the ball off the boot.

The ball spent the first 10 minutes in Tatura forward line going back and forth before they got on the scoreboard.

Euroa’s defence in Will Davey, Ethan Saxon, Ben Creevy, Jackson Walker was all working overtime.

Euroa 0 1 1 Tatura 1 4 10

The second quarter Coach Saxon asked his players for a lift.

Although only playing 16 with no bench we wanted to fight this one out to the end.

Ollie Wilson, Olllie Rob-

inson, and Dougie Kipping were all starting get a touch and get amongst the game.

It was mainly played in Tatura’s forward half but only minor damage on the scoreboard.

The backline was under immense pressure and if not for the desperation of Blade Johns, Ethan Saxon & Will Davey, Euroa would have been a lot further behind.

Euroa 0 1 1 Tatura 1 7 13

After half time both teams kept fighting with everything they had.

Tatura seemed to have all the answers but Euroa to their credit kept pushing forward.

The persistence paid off with a goal to Haimi Wolfenden after solid forward pressure.

Patrick Murphy was leading well and getting reward for hard work.

It was real finals football on show.

Both teams having a real “crack” and no one was backing down.

Euroa 0 2 2 Tatura 3 11 29

The final quarter was not as the scoreboard reflected. Tatura skipped away with some easy goals as the Euroa team tired.

Ben Creevy worked hard all day and kicked a magnificent goal on the run from the 7’s creek forward pocket, to lift the spirits of the team.

Euroa battled away all day, but bigger bodies and rotations on the bench showed in the end.

Well done to all 16 players for Euroa, they showed true spirit and grit to fight the game out.

Final scores Euroa 2 2 14 defeated by Tatura 6 16 52 Thanks to our merry team of helpers, Pam walker, Sally Sheridan, Mel Creevy,Michael Johns, Josh Kipping, Karl Holden, Kusuma Wolfendan, Kale Robinson and Addy Goldsmark.

GOLF

EUROA GOLF CLUB

WITH the worst of winter behind us, the members at

Euroa Golf Club were looking forward to getting on course on the weekend.

The green staff and volunteers have been busy with the mowers getting across the entire course.

The greens mower has been lowered and the greens are rolling beautifully, everything was looking perfect until 17mm of rain fell on course late Friday.

As a result, the Castle Creek teams event was postponed and only 20 men and just 5 ladies ventured out in fine but heavy conditions to contest the August Monthly Medal events sponsored by Drummond Golf.

The day went well for the McMartin families with Glen winning the Men’s medal with a net 74, while Dee McMartin took out the Ladies Medal on Net 82.

Laurie McMartin also had a good round to be runner up on 75 with Gary Ritchie Net 75 and Cam Roper Net 76 the next best.

Ed Carracher had a great day with the putter with just 24 putts to win the putts in what for Ed was a pretty ugly day.

Most of the B grade men’s field also struggled with most being Net 80 or worse and a couple of big Bradman scores were recorded.

The A grade field handled it better.

Matt Mills and Laurie McMartin collected a tidy payout when they shared the two-ball jackpot prize.

With Ross Wishart on holiday, stand in captain Peter McMahon looked after proceedings on Saturday.

Bigger fields played Wednesday in good conditions which saw 17 players in the Ladies 18-hole event won by Levena Redfern with 31 points while May Hamilton won the 9-hole event.

Next week it’s Stableford on Wednesday and Saturday with the Ladies playing the first round of the Burton Trophy on Wednesday.

Thursday is the Dalhousie District Open Challenge Teams event at Broadford.

Next week significant work is to be undertaken to remove some of the trouble-

dies hit off, which was a disappointing field considering it was the first round of the club championships for the men.

The golf could be described as cool and cloudy too as most players struggled to score for some reason, that is with the exception of the youngest competitor in the field, who absolutely relished the conditions and shot his best ever round of 79 off the stick.

Twelve-year-old Campbell Smith played some exceptional golf, including a couple of outstanding birdies on the 10th and 15th holes – both long par 5s.

Campbell’s 66 nett blitzed the field, with the runner-up being his grandfather, Dale, who returned a creditable 72 nett.

Daniel Neville was a shot further back with 73 nett and Lyn Carracher got the last ball with 74 nett.

some and problematic trees to get the course at its very best into spring when the club is set to host the major PIA event in October.

NAGAMBIE GOLF CLUB

THE Nagambie golf course was once again on top of the field with 9mm of rain falling late in the week and softening conditions, a heavy dew and cold morning air greeted the players, but the sun shone throughout the day making things comfortable.

A monthly medal was on offer, but the course allowed only the better ball strikers to perform to their potential, the winning golfer was the mudlark specialist Tim Baldwin blitzing the field with a 5-stroke victory shooting one of his better scores for some time an impressive 79-10-69, a net score in the sixties this time of year is a great effort off a low handicap.

Runner up was another well credentialled golfer in Michael Nolan knocking out a very respectable 85-11-74, Nolan’s accuracy to the green and solid putting contributing to his good day, rounding out the top three was another good ball striker in the way of Jeremy Ezard with a 75-0-75.

The nearest the pin prizes went to Jeremy Ezard on the 8th with a blistering 4 iron, Harold Rayner driving straight into the green on the 13th and Michael ‘Spike’ Nolan using a driver to reach the exposed 16th into a thick southerly wind.

Next week’s golf will be on Saturday 12th August tee off will continue to be 9.00 to 9.30am, a stableford will be played with B. Leviston on office duty and P. Lawrence in the bar.

The Saturday fixture is to make way for the Dargalong Cup being held on Sunday 13th August at the Murchison East golf club; a time honoured four ball assembly is 10.30am for a 11am hit off

AVENEL GOLF CLUB

IT was a cool, overcast day for golf last Saturday, but the sun did peep through from time to time.

Eleven men and three la-

Only one of the four NTPs was claimed and that was by Dave Fullager, who hit a nice shot into the 18th and knocked the putt in for a birdie.

The D & P ball also remained with the club as did the birdie hole ball.

Campbell Smith is leading the way in the club champs with a seven shot lead over reigning champ, Scoota Donovan, who will no doubt be hoping to ditch his firstround score.

The pressure will be on captain Jed when he returns next week, not only to score better than young Campbell, but as he missed the first round, his remaining three will all count.

Just a reminder to players, the championships are determined by the best three of four rounds, so to those who have missed the first round, you’re still in with a chance, so come along and have a crack.

The juniors played their 6-hole comp on Saturday morning and there was a three-way tie on nett 25.

Riley Wall won the countback.

Kevin Traynor was 2nd and Bob Taylor White was 3rd.

Kevin won the Bank Street Wood Fired Pizza voucher for a great chip-in from about 14 metres out.

Any juniors keen to have a game are most welcome to come along on Saturday morning.

This Saturday is the second round of the championships, so we’ll be playing stroke.

A reminder of our upcoming annual tournament on the weekend of August 1920.

Pioneer Park 4BBB Par for Men and Ladies on Saturday the 19th and Men’s Open Championship on Sunday the 20th and of course, don’t forget our fabulous Hole in One Prize – a Mitsubishi ASX GS to the first player to score a hole in one on the 5th courtesy of Beer Auto Group.

Entries to Jared Smith (0407 546 917) or Lyn Carracher (0427 985 268).

HARD LUCK: Longwood senior player Dylan Hardy has a spill. See report and Dale Mann photos on page 19.

Redlegs return to Longwood home base

By IAN SHINER

THANKS to a massive effort from the Strathbogie shire and despite Friday’s rain Redlegs stadium was available to host the Longwood v Lancaster round 14 games.

The highlights of the day for Redleg supporters were the wins by the under 15s and C grade netball teams.

Both these meritorious wins were achieved over teams that are ranked higher on the ladder than the Longwood teams.

The 15s were never headed and achieved a dominant 12-goal win while the C grade girls really fought hard to earn their 3-goal win over the wombats.

It was a close finish with the 17s going down by just two goals and the extremely tall Lancy shooter was the difference between the two sides.

The A graders just nine goals adrift of their more fancied opponents were

very competitive all game.

No luck for the other netball teams but certainly no lack of effort.

Great to see Coen, Edward and Billy teaming up to help the under 11 side so admirably.

Well done guys.

Hard work for the Redleg footballers struggling with lack of numbers and against sides firmly entrenched in the upper bracket of the competition. Encouraging to see the improvement in some of our young players.

All of the players named in our best six Brodie Purchase, Seth Kilroy, Connor Peterson, Harry Shiner, Seb Stokes and Luke Allison have just come so far with their football this season.

Well done to coach Brendan Brewer and wounded captain Ben Grayham for getting the reserves side on the park.

Tough work against such strong opposition with

Kyle Withers. Brad Dowell and veteran Michael Hanson all more than holding their own.

The senior Redlegs sadly missed the injured goal kickers Josh Formosa and Rhys Cason as the team just could not finish the hard work of bringing the ball forward by being able to score consistently.

Regular ball winners Jye Formosa, Dillon Hardy, Dev Gordois and Bailey McMurtrie led the way in a committed team effort.

Round 15 next week with the 14s and reserves footballers and all netballers at Rushwor th on Satu rday and the 18s footballers at Violet Town on Sunday.

ROUND RESULTS:

NORTH East Bushrangers Basketball (NEBB) is a collaboration between local North East basketball associations with the commitment of “Creating Realistic Pathways for all North East Athletes”

Eleven NEBB junior teams compete in the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) - the highest level junior competition in Victoria.

One NEBB Youth League Men’s (YLM) team competes in the semi-professional Big V competition.

Big V & VJBL consist of teams from both metropolitan and regional Victoria.

U14 Boys 1 Abandoned Ringwood 1

U14 Boys 2 38 def Whittlesea 4 30

(Top Scorers: Joseph Milton 14, Ethan Damon 8, Brock Buckland 7)

U14 Girls 1 47 def Diamond Valley 2 30

(Top Scorers: Ella Mercieca 23, Maisy Moscrop 7, Lily Purss 6)

U14 Girls 2 21 def by Whittlesea 2 27

(Top Scorers: Maria Hanley 5, Kaity Ford 5, Winnie Heffernan 4)

U16 Boys 1 64 def Camberwell 1 32

(Top Scorers: Dashiell Smith 15, Cooper Clark 12, Jett Milligan 8)

U16 Boys 2 34 def by Melton 2 46

(Top Scorers: Seth Graham 8, Lenny Lonergan 6, Josh Vearing 5)

U16 Girls 1 59 def Altona 1 46

(Top Scorers: Lily-Anne McClure 12, Indiana Phillips 12, Kiera Freeman 10)

U16 Girls 2 41 def Diamond Valley 5 28

(Top Scorers: Sophia Kotzur 12, Ebony Chapman 7, Elliana Gray 6)

U18 Boys 1 44 def by Dandenong 2 47

(Top Scorers: Lochie Harvey 19, Cooper Newton 12, Coen Ainsworth 8)

U18 Boys 2 52 def by Bellarine 80

(Top Scorers: Harry Stripeikis 11, Nic Watson 11, Jac Green 8)

U18 Girls 0 Forfeit Diamond Valley 1 20

North East Bushrangers Volunteers are a crucial part of the club.

HOLD ON TILLET DROPS: Longwood C grade player Adele Tillet.

PHOTOS: Dale Mann

MUDDY CONTEST: Longwood reserves player Nathan Watson.

MCMURTIE: Longwood senior player Geordie McMurtie.

BEGBIE BEGGING TO PASS: Longwood B grade player Elanor Begbie.

Terrip looms as premiership favorites in winter tennis competition

By RHONDA CARPENTER

MANSFIELD Blue travelled to Euroa to play Seven Creeks while Euroa came to Mansfield to play Red.

Benalla were forced to forfeit due to illness and missed out on the trip to Mansfield to play Black.

Terip and Moglonemby faced off at Terip.

Terip’s Frances Lawrence, Bec Lyttle, Phoebe McDermid, and Jenny Martin welcomed the visitors who toiled hard all day.

Moglonemby’s Judy Sands, Marlene Hanrahan, Mary Kelly, and Lyn Johnston got close in two sets, losing one in a breaker and the other 8-6.

Terip won the other sets convincingly and won the match 6/48 to 0/20.

In Euroa Seven Creeks’ Rowena Ellis and Rosie Cameron won their opener 8-4 against Mansfield Blue’s Fiona Lindsay and Sophie Yencken, but Clare Beecham and Jill Breadon took theirs 8-0 for the visitors.

Sets were again split when Yencken and Breadon won 8-4 against Cameron and Kim Hamill while Ellis

with Kerry Hewlett won 8-1. Only one game separated the teams going into the deciding set.

Seven Creeks took both though and won the match 4/36 to 2/26.

Mary Dewis and Pat Howard watched their teams play in the Mansfield match.

It was cold off the court, but players warmed up in their contest.

Euroa’s Lyndall Bigland, Ros Doxey, Ruth Nolan, and Julie Brooks put on a masterclass.

Games were hard to come by for the hosts, as the visitors’ excellent form and fitness propelled them forward.

Euroa took every set and won 6/48 to 0/8, which moved them into second spot of the ladder.

Mansfield Black and Benalla also switched places. Four rounds remain with semi-finals played in Mansfield on the 4th of September.

MTA will also hold its AGM that night.

Ladder: Terip 81, Euroa 66, Moglonemby 65, Mansfield Black 53, Benalla 48, Seven Creeks 38, Mansfield Blue 26, Mansfield Red 23

St John’s girls progress to state carnival

By TULLY WATSON

THE year 5 and 6 girls soccer team from St John’s School in Euroa went to Wangaratta to compete in the regional competition last Wedneday.

It seemed like the whole school was cheering as we left in the bus.

The girls versed Yarrawonga P12 College.

Melinda Watson the PE teacher was coaching.

The girls went onto the soccer pitch, they all felt nervous seeing their opposition who were much taller than them.

Euroa started strongly with a goal scored by Lylah Hamill in the first 15 mins.

The girls clearly showing that size isn’t everything.

At half time all the girls came into their coach to talk about their game play.

The girls were munching on oranges and lollies while listening.

The second half was more difficult for the St Johns girls with one goal slipping through the defence.

Full time the scores were one all and the girls came to a penalty shootout.

The umpire explained the shoot out and both teams selected five penalty kickers, and one goalie.

Euroa had the first try for a

penalty, Emma Zhao stepped up to the ball and kicked an amazing goal straight into the back of the net.

The Yarrawonga team also got their goal but a great effort from Euroa’s goalie, Charlotte Divers.

Euroa was back up to the penalty line, Remy Simmons kicked the ball but unlucky the goal got saved by Yarrawonga’s goalie.

Again, Yarrawonga stepped up and still despite the efforts of Charlotte the ball went through.

Then Ruby Preston stood up and kicked the second successful for Euroa, but then a kick from Yarrawonga went above the net and the scores were tied.

Tully Watson came and kicked a great goal into to top left corner.

Yarrawonga then missed the goal, lightly touched by Charlotte.

The game was in Isla Moore’s hands.

We were holding our breath.

A great kick, but just to the left of the post.

Both teams had gone through all their five penalty takers, so they had to choose one more.

Euroa selected Lylah Hamill.

She stepped onto the line knowing that her team was

supporting and encouraging her. She kicked

ball, and it as a super goal.

Now it was Yarrawonga’s turn.

The

save.

ran

It was an amazing effort from the whole Euroa team

and a great victory as well. Now the St

is going to Melbourne to compete in the state school soccer competition! GO EUROA.

WINNERS: (From left to right) Charlotte Divers, Sophie Lamont, Lylah Hamill, Remy Simmons, Ruby Preston, Isla Moore, Elisabeth McCullough, Mia Rieusset, Isabelle Zhu, Piper Clarke, Emma Zhao; (front) Tully Watson PHOTO: Melinda Watson

the

Charlotte stepped into the goals, Yarrawonga stepped to the ball, they kicked it, and Charlotte performed a spectacular

whole Euroa team

to Charlotte congratulating her then went to shake hands with the Yarrawonga team.

John’s school team

PLAYED IN GOOD SPIRITS: Euroa and Mansfield Red together Lyndall Bigland, Ros Doxey, Ruth Nolan, Deb McCormack. Carolyn Murray, Karyn Fraser, and Julie Brooks after their opening sets.

PHOTO: Rhonda Carpenter

Violet town netballers do battle with ever-strong Merrigum

VTFNC - A GRADE

IT was always going to be a tough clash with Violet Town sitting in 6th and Merrigum in 8th and it was evident in the first few minutes.

VT got on the board early with Imogen Law landing the first goal, but it was instantly answered with strong attack from Merrigum and VT’s defenders of Jayde Burden and Stephanie Hayes were working overtime.

They managed to put Merrigum under a lot of pressure in the goal ring and force a few turnovers, but it didn’t help VT get off to a strong start as they struggled to convert, facing too much pressure in the midcourt which caused some misplaced passes to be easily picked off

VT’s passing continued to be off target while Merrigum’s intercepts and goals were right on.

VT’s defence kept working hard but there wasn’t a lot to pick off

At the end of the first quarter Merrigum were up 17-7.

Second quarter saw VT make a few changes including Macey Ross coming on and Teagan Kubeil going into GA. Teagan was strong in the ring with Imogen and Kolby moved out to centre.

Jayde and Steph continued their high work rate in defence but it was still hard going through the midcourt and into the ring and the score reflected it with Merrigum going into the main break up 40-19.

In the third quarter Katrina Jung came on in GA and Teagan was moved

back out to WA.

The midcourt shifted too with Jo Wild into Centre this time, Kolby into GD, Brooke into WA.

Teagan was feeding well and defence was working hard for turnovers and getting a few.

VT started to string together some really good passages of play and were working their way back into the game.

Kolby found her feet for the day and was having a strong game in GD with lots of touches and intercepts but there was still a bit of a struggle to get the ball safely out of the defensive end.

It continued to be a hard slog for VT’s defence as Merrigum’s shooters were working together so well but they were up for the challenge.

In a blow for VT, Imogen came off injured and Teagan went back into GS and teamed well with Katrina while Macey fought hard for the ball and held her own against some physical opposition.

VT won the quarter 14-8 but due to Merrigum’s strong start they went into the final quarter with a 15-goal lead, 48-33.

A myriad of changes took place heading into the final quarter including Jayde coming back in GD and Kolby moving to GK. VT kept the pressure on and started strong grabbing four goals to Merrigum’s two early on.

But Merrigum put their foot back on the pedal and VT lost a few opportunities forced to try out long bomb passes that were intercept-

ed. Katrina continued to please, stepping up from B grade combining with Teagan who was holding her space and moving well. Despite the fantastic pressure from Kolby and Jayde and VT winning the quarter 9-8, it was too late and Merrigum claimed the win, 56-42.

Final Scores – Merrigum 56 defeated Violet Town 42 Best: Kolby Wild

2nd Best: Jo Wild

B GRADE

AN intense first half of netball.

Goal for goal in the first half, very even and well fought out battle.

VT found their feet in the third quarter and got a nice little lead.

It was a team effort across the court, rotating through the mid court allowing for fresh legs which helped VT to run out the game and the girls were able to capitalise on opportunities when presented.

Final Scores – Violet Town 47 defeated Merrigum 38

Best: Kayla Gracie

2nd Best: Millie Elliston

C GRADE

VIOLET Town came out with strong defensive pressure creating multiple turnovers to allow the shooters numerous attempts.

Merrigum gained a quick lead which was hard to slow.

Violet Town were able to have some great passages of play throughout the game.

Final Scores – Merrigum

61 defeated Violet Town 8 Best: Steph Dearnaley

2nd Best: Maya Howe

Under 15s

IT was a slow start for VT today, but the girls came to-

gether and worked well as a team.

There was great movement down the court and strong defensive pressure all the way down the court.

Lilliana led really well.

Scarlett had great hands

over the ball. Mischa covered her player well throughout the game.

Ash came out strong making an impact in centre in the second quarter.

Matilda took some great intercepts and deflections.

Goalers found their groove after struggling against the wind.

Final Scores: Awards – Violet Town 40 defeated Merrigum 28

Best: Lilliana Williams

2nd Best: Ash Antonis

Domestic Basketball returns for 2023

DOMESTIC basketball returned to Euroa last week with the commencement of Euroa Basketball Association’s Term 3 Competition.

With teams being allocated to age groups of under 18s and under 14s both mixed with boys and girls, it was good to see the teams take to the courts for the first time since December last year.

The competition will be played on a Tuesday evening at the multipurpose stadium at Euroa Secondary College and registrations are still open until the end of August.

The competition will continue through to the end of term three, culminating in a final’s night before the focus shifts to the longer summer domestic season, which will run from the start of term four and continue right through until March

at the end of term one and coincide with the end of the representative season. With EBA recently completing its Junior Development Program for beginners and also conducted their Try Outs for the upcoming Representative Basketball Season, there has been plenty of activity around the courts at Euroa Secondary College.

Teams representing Euroa Basketball will soon be finalised and training will begin leading up to their first tournament weekend in Echuca in late September.

If you would like any information about how you can get involved in any of the basketball programs on offer within the Euroa area, jump onto the Euroa Basketball Facebook page or email euroabasketballassociation@ gmail.com and send your enquiries through.

FIGHT ON THIER HANDS: Violet Town’s netballers were set no easy task by the gallant Merrigum Bulldogs.

GAME PLAN: Violet Town’s A grade side come together before their match begins. Photo’s VTFNC Facebook

BOYS ARE BACK: Bryse Ashcroft drives to the basket against Ashton Morris in the under 18s game last Tuesday night.

A grade continues red hot form

Rochester’s four-game winning streak ends as they collide with the Magpies juggernaut

- A Grade Netball

EFNC

THE Magpies knew this was going to be a tough game as Rochester were an in-form team on a winning streak.

From the very start Euroa’s defence was tight, creating a couple of turnovers and got off to an early lead.

However, the fast Tigers’ attack had them back on track and only trailing by four at the end of the quarter.

Euroa came out in the second quarter keen to make the lead a little more comfortable.

They applied pressure throughout the court, forcing Rochester to make errors and with accurate goaling by Sarah Ternes and Mia Sudomirski, were able to extend the lead by 8 at the half time break.

The third quarter was much more even, despite Sophie Owen continuing her great form in wing defence with regular deflections, and Tylah Marchbank and Ellie Warnock not allowing Rochester any easy goals.

The Magpies were not flowing well into their goal circle and several turnovers from forced wayward passes were costly.

In the fourth Kellie Davidson and Eliza Hoare were showing plenty of patience to make sure that Mia and Bree Poole, who had come into goal shooter, had good shooting position and the team’s momentum continued to grow, finishing with a good win of 21 goals at the games end.

Euroa 63 Rochester 42

Best players: Tylah Marcbank, Sophie Owen, Mia Sudomirski.

B Grade NETBALL can be a cruel game sometimes.

Despite fighting hard for four quarters, playing in a free flowing and inventive manner and holding the lead for much of the game, Euroa’s B grade team lost by a solitary goal on Saturday against the Rochester Tigers.

In what was a ‘do or die’ scenario, the loss on Saturday now makes the chance of playing finals very slim.

Some would say impossible.

The Magpies shot straight out of the gates in the first quarter.

Direct passing, fleet footwork and accurate goaling all combined to create a slight buffer between them and the Tigers.

Up to 7 goals difference between the teams at varying times throughout the game.

Grace Warnock played another sensational game in defence.

Combining well with Kelly Hill in the ring, and Sienna Trotter and Millie Watson on the wing, the Magpie defence was fast and furious as they chased and contested every loose ball with desperation.

Caitlyn Elliott and Abbie

Ellis did a sterling job in the mid-court, moving the ball into Euroa’s goalers with speed and precision.

Finding a way through the maze of Tiger players took patience and persistence, with the occasional throw backwards required to move forwards.

The Magpie goalers, Bree Poole, Molly Redfern and Marnie Burton worked in unison to find space and suitable spots to take shots.

Their accuracy and confidence were high, their leads were polished and their success on the scoreboard ticked over with regularity.

Mid way through the final quarter, Rochester grabbed the lead off Euroa and guarded it zealously.

And despite their valiant efforts, Euroa could not wrest it back.

The Magpies did almost everything right on Saturday, but in the end, just couldn’t get the win.

Rochester 37 Euroa 36

Best players: Grace Warnock, Molly Redfern, Kelly Hill

Under 17s

SATURDAY saw some sunshine for Euroa’s U17 girls as they took the court against Rochester at Memorial Oval.

After a close loss to Rochester the last time they met, Euroa were hoping for some good results on their home courts.

Not only were the Magpies looking for a better outcome, but they were also looking to celebrate Chloe Salters 50th game for the club.

Chloe is a tough member of the Euroa team, her desire for the ball is uncompromising, and her commitment to her team unparalleled.

The first half started with some strong netball from both sides with a couple of turnovers putting Rochester ahead, although some lovely defence was displayed from Tess Walker, Maggie Pittiock, and Chloe Salter, combating their skills against the tall Tiger goalers.

Going into the second half Euroa continued to put up a tough fight against the wellequipped Rochester team.

Goalers Lily Meehan, Natasha Reid and Bella Vanderschoor put in their best efforts putting up some very nice goals with some great mobility around the ring.

The mid courters Ruby Watson, Charlotte Palmer, and Chloe Townsend also contributed strongly, working the ball down court time after time, and feeding in some beautiful balls to the goalers.

Unfortunately, despite the Magpie’s best efforts, it wasn’t enough to beat the Rochester girls who put on a great display of netball.

Rochester 52 Euroa 28

Awards: Chloe Salter, Lily Meehan, and Bella Vanderschoor

IN THE RING: Maddy Murray aims at goal.

STANDIING TALL: Mary Frewen gave it her all in goals for the Magpies.

DECISIONS TO BE MADE: TJ Sutherland prepares to move the ball.

MILESTONE MATCH: Chloe Salter was once again in the best for the under 15s in her 50th club game.

PHOTOS: Raelee Jager

‘Pies draw positives in tough game

EFNC - UNDER 18 FOOTBALL

By SCOTT WALTERS

SUNNY but cool conditions greeted the Rochester U18 football team at Memorial Oval after the drive over to Euroa, which no doubt allowed for some valuable learner driver diary hours for some.

With numbers again challenged by injury and senior selection and Murray Bushranger duties, Rochester assisted with a couple of players to ensure our diehard thirds could get an even line up on the park.

The quarter started with Eddy Tilton marking and hitting up a teammate with

a pinpoint pass.

Alif Chambers’ strong tackle was rewarded with a free kick and Euroa’s first goal was on the board after he converted truly.

The Pies were winning in the ruck and the clearances and tackling strongly, just some wayward disposals were denying us of scoring opportunities.

Coach Hill’s sagacious quarter time address implored his chargers to rise to the challenge of the contested possession and they did.

Wolfenden and Anderson put their head over the ball and the team scrapped the quarter out.

The third quarter Euroa were matching Rochester

in intensity and effort, relentless forward pressure resulted in a goal to Ivill.

In the last quarter Tynan Cummins was able to put away the third goal for Euroa. Blake Hepworth continued his best afield effort, leading the way playing for teammates and the jumper.

Euroa matched Roches-

ter in every way but on the scoreboard and continue to show great persistence.

Euroa 1.1.7 defeated by Rochester 16.17.113

Best players: Blake Hepworth, Ned Ivill, Robert Lawrence, Ed Tilton, Caid Miller, Brodie Hamill.

Goal kicker: Ned Ivill (1), Alif Chambers (1), Tynan Cummins (1).

2023

Friday, August 11

Collingwood vs. Geelong Cats (MCG) (N)

Saturday, August 12

North Melbourne vs. Essendon (MRVL)

Sydney Swans vs. Gold Coast SUNS (SCG)

Brisbane Lions vs. Adelaide Crows (G) (T)

Carlton vs. Melbourne (MCG) (N)

West Coast Eagles vs. Fremantle (OS) (N)

Sunday, August 13

Hawthorn vs. Western Bulldogs (UTAS)

St Kilda vs. Richmond (MRVL)

FOOTY TIPPING COMPETITION [AFL] ROUND 22

Port Adelaide vs. GWS GIANTS (AO) (T)

Brisbane

Carlton

Fremantle

Western Bulldogs

St Kilda

Port Adelaide

Last week: 6

TOTAL: 114

A, B GRADE A, B GRADE NE TBALL NETBALL TEAMS TAME TAME THE TIGERS THE

Seniors and reserves bounce back

EFNC - SENIOR FOOTBALL

By SCOTT WATSON

A WONDERFUL team effort at Memorial Oval last Saturday ensured a victory against the Rochester side and guarantee of a place in the 2023 finals series for this team.

Neale Poole Assistant Coach had the reigns for the afternoon and was able to lead his team to this victory with the football experience, calmness and purpose we all know he brings to the role.

Young stars Jett Trotter (6 goals) and Lachie Hill (36 possessions) led the way for the Magpies in what was a very competitive games for the majority of the afternoon.

Euroa booting away to win by 40 points with a dominant last quarter.

It was great to have ruckman Andrew Smith back in the side after a couple of weeks out whilst the return of Mitchell Walters (2 goals) certainly sparked up the team after his one-week ‘stint’ in the Murray Bushranger side.

The second of Mitchell’s goals was certainly one to remember with his team-mates and the crowd going ballistic when it went through from hard up against the boundary line.

The cool, calm and collected backline of Jack Frewen, Ryan Pendlebury and Ben Harrison allowed the team to continually rebound the ball with purpose.

Running players such as Peter Cairns, Will Creevey and the dynamic Jake Penman continued to create opportunities for their team to hit the scoreboard.

Goals to a number of crafty forwards like Craig Bamford, Jayden Gleeson and Zac Gleeson were the icing on the cake as a result of this use of the ball.

With the club having a bye

next weekend it is a perfect opportunity to re-set for a huge 6-weeks of football.

Rounds 17 (v Kyabram at Kyabram), 18 (v Mansfield in Euroa) are two key contests in preparation for the 2023 finals.

The weather is starting to look brighter as well as the possibilities for this team –get along and be involved as the ‘pointy-end’ approaches.

Euroa 13.18.96 defeated Rochester 8.8.56

Best players: Jett Trotter, Andrew Bell, Jayden Gleeson, Harrison Jarvie, Max Gleeson, Jake Penman

Goal kickers: Jett Trotter (6), Mitchell Walters (2), Craig Bamford (1), Jayden Gleeson (1), Zac Gleeson (1), Will Creevey (1), Peter Cairns (1)

RESERVES FOOTBALL

By TONY BRODIE

WITH a number of good additions for our reserves team, the supporters were hopeful that we could get back to winning the four points.

During the first quarter our players were quickly out of the blocks and with good passages of play from the senior brigade we were able to hit the scoreboard.

What was also disappointing was the missed opportunities by the team which stopped them from breaking away, allowing the Rochester team to win the ball back and take the opportunity to stay in contact.

As the second quarter commenced the contest was becoming very even with the Rochester experienced players becoming dangerous, keeping them in touch on the scoreboard.

Euroa were able to increase their lead by a slender margin at the half time break.

SETTING

During the third quarter the game continued to be very even with the experienced players of both teams having major impact on the game. Our reserves were able to go to the three-quarter time break with a 27-point break.

The thinking from all was that Euroa could hold onto this lead, but this was not to be the case as the Rochester team worked their way back into the game during the last quarter, giving themselves a big chance of winning the game.

Luckily Euroa were able to hold on and come away with a 10-point victory.

The backline lead by Mitch Penman supported by Nick McCabe and Brodie Asquith held things together well.

Isaiah Trotter and Jordan Asquith tried hard against the taller Rochester ruckman and alongside Nicholas Hill they were solid contributor in the midfield. James Ivill was best afield with his running ability a highlight.

It was good to have Pat Horsburgh and JD Hayes in the team with their high-quality field kicking

helping the team.

Young Nick Burke was a good target up forward and as always Robbie Wilson and Ash Hobbs were good players contributing to the team with their football smarts.

Euroa has a bye next week then face Kyabram, with a number of players hopefully available the Pies

should be up to the task. Euroa 10.9.68 defeated Rochester 9.5.59

Best Players: James Ivill, Jack Christie, Nic McCabe, Pat Horsburgh, Nic Burke, Robbie Wilson

Goal Kickers Euroa: James Ivill (3), Robbie Wilson (3), Nicholas Hill (1), Pat Horsburgh (1), Nic Burke (1), Lachie Cooke (1).

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TIME AND SPACE: Pat Horsbrugh made a strong return for the magpies.

PHOTO: Raelee Jager

THE TONE: Marcus Varley was pivitol in the early stages of Saturday’s senior match with a number of hard tackles and bumps.

PHOTO: Raelee Jager