EG111224_Digital_Edition_JacobSelwood

CHRISTMAS ON BINNEY

manager Neville Mawson and postie Cale Demdakos are looking forward to Christmas. They are pictured on Binney Street, Euroa, with Santa’s sleigh, built by the Euroa Men’s Shed.

Northeast growth spurt

THE Strathbogie Shire is riding a growth wave sweeping northeast Victoria, ranking as the state’s third fastest growing LGA in a December 2024 Regional Australia Institute (RAI) report.

The shire has dropped from its rst place rank in RAI’s August 2024 report, which earned it the impressive title of Victoria’s fastest growing LGA.

But the latest quarterly report reveals that in the 12 months from September 2023 to 2024, the shire still recorded strong growth in migration in ows, increasing by 251 percent.

Strathbogie is state’s third fastest growing LGA, as Wangaratta claims title of fastest growing LGA in Australia

BY DARREN CHAITMAN dchaitman@ nemedia.com.au

The gure does not represent a total growth in population, but rather the rate of migration in ows relative to the previous year (September 2022 to 2023).

The growth rate is the third highest in Victoria and fourth highest in Australia.

Migration from regional areas to the Strathbogie Shire has increased by 151pc, compared to a 100pc increase in migration from capital cities.

The Strathbogie Shire is bucking the trend on region-to-region migration, which has fallen 5.1pc nationwide.

Strathbogie Shire Council mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy was not surprised by the new data.

“Of course everyone wants to live

in Strathbogie – who wouldn’t?” she said.

Wangaratta, another northeast Victorian LGA, has now claimed the label of Victoria’s (and Australia’s) fastest growing LGA, recording a migration growth rate of 592pc.

Moira Shire, neighbouring Strathbogie, ranked a close h with a migration growth rate of 247pc.

Migration to Mans eld, also in the northeast, increased by 186.8pc.

■ Continued page 2

2024 EUROA & DISTRICT

Strathbogie is state’s third fastest growing LGA

■ From front page

The Victorian LGA of Queenscli e ranked in second place (407pc increase) and the NSW LGA of Bega Valley ranked third (291pc increase).

According to RAI, growth in city-to-region migration in this quarter is 1.8pc higher than the average rate during the height of COVID-19 lockdowns.

The rate is also 19.8pc above the pre-COVID average.

RAI CEO Liz Ritchie said the

gures show Australia is “in a new era of migration where regional Australia is at the forefront”.

According to the report, 35.6pc more people are moving from capital cities to the regions than in the opposite direction.

Paul Fowler, a regional manager at Commonwealth Bank Australia, said Strathbogie was among regional LGAs that “o er attractive and more a ordable lifestyle opportunities for many Australians”.

“Victoria’s regional businesses are… well-positioned to capitalise on increased migration, with growth in industries like agribusiness, logistics, healthcare and education set to bene t from demand,” he said.

Cr Ewart-Kennedy said growth is “exciting and challenging”.

“We shouldn’t shy away from it, but rather we should embrace it, mindful of the impacts and opportunities equally,” she said.

“Growth has to be managed against the backdrop of our important agricultural, equine, wine, food and many other amazing businesses, whilst ensuring our residents enjoy their amenities in a way that provides opportunity, accessibility and participation for all.”

She is encouraging locals to provide feedback, in person or online, on council’s Rural Residential and Land Use Strategy and Urban Growth Strategy.

Systemic issues a barrier for CFA, FRV: monitor’s report

By STEVE KELLY

VOLUNTEER

Fire Brigades

Victoria (VFBV) District 23 president Garry Nash is calling for an inquiry into the state’s re services following a damning report from the state monitor.

The Victorian re services monitor Niall Blair recently released his report revealing systemic issues presenting as a signi cant barrier to progression of actions jointly led by CFA and FRV.

Mr Nash, who has decades of experience with the CFA, has called for a bipartisan Legislative Council Inquiry so volunteer and professional re ghters are listened to so it can be reformed into a workable entity by the government.

“This needs to be done soon rather than waiting for a disastrous re season or another Black Saturday where people are killed and communities are devastated,” he said.

“The CFA Fire Chief should be in charge of the CFA, not being controlled by government or a union.”

Concerns in the report in-

clude high level vacancies in the CFA that have resulted in brigade level volunteers not receiving dedicated operational support and leadership they need to ensure preparedness and readiness.

In 2023/24, CFA experienced a de cit of, on average, 17 senior operational leaders (i.e. commanders and ACFOs) each week, equating to 11 per cent of CFA’s operational workforce.

At its worst, CFA experienced a de cit of 33 operational positions (i.e. 20.6 per cent of its operational workforce) for one week in 2023/24.

“CFA reports that the vacancies have resulted in impacted CFA districts, groups, brigades and volunteers not receiving the dedicated operational support and leadership they need to ensure operational preparedness and readiness,” Mr Blair reported.

“CFA also reported that the vacancies are impacting on CFA’s ability to maintain operations

against its statutory obligations and provide safe systems of work in relation to fatigue management of its seconded workforce.

“The challenges lling vacancies and non-relief is a complex, multi-faceted issue that predates the reform and is likely caused by a combination of factors.

“This includes personnel and organisational culture issues, sta being on medical leave, FRV’s ageing workforce, implementation of the secondment model, and FRV’s enterprise agreement and related corporate policies.

“FSIM has seen evidence of correspondence from CFA to FRV in 2023/24 raising concerns about the scale of the vacancy and non-relief issues experienced by CFA and acknowledging FRV’s e orts to address these issues.”

CFA and FRV established Fire Services Operational Committee (FSOC) in 2021 to identify and

promote collaboration and interoperability opportunities and to strengthen working relations between the two agencies and FSOC has six subcommittees.

However, the monitor reported that FSOC did no progress any work against a formalist workplan in 2023/24.

“FSIM has been advised that FSOC responded to ad-hoc issues instead,” she said.

“In this reporting period, FSOC and four of its subcommittees did not have a workplan.

“In addition, FSOC and one of its sub-committees cancelled up to six meetings this nancial year due to key personnel not being available to meet.”

The fire services implementation monitor (FSIM) was established as an independent entity in July 2020 and he monitors and reports on agencies’ progress to deliver relevant actions in the Fire Services Reform Implementation Plan and assesses the effectiveness of agencies’ actions.

Have your say on Euroa’s public art trail

Strathbogie Shire Council seeking input on a new public art trail in Euroa

STRATHBOGIE Shire Council is seeking input on a new public art trail in Euroa.

As previously reported by this masthead, the Euroa Chamber of Commerce and Euroa Action Group received $50,000 through council’s 2024 Pitch My Project program to create an art trail connecting Euroa’s magpie sculpture with new artworks.

The project will link the iconic bird at Seven Creeks Park with businesses in and around Binney Street, and the blue wren sculpture at Euroa’s Yiiro Community Garden.

“Everyone knows what a drawcard Swoop has become, and the Chamber and the Action Group have received this next grant through Pitch My Project

Almost half a million for GraniteHill upgrade

THE Federal Government is investing $497,867 in Euroa Health for a major equipment update of 75 beds at GraniteHill Aged Care.

Euroa Health aged care manager Angela Marchant said the grant is welcome news.

“It enables us to provide a safer and more dignified care environment for our residents,” she said.

“This Aged Care Capital Assistance Program grant directly supports not-for-profit providers and small community-based operators like Euroa Health Inc to modernise their aged care homes and create employment opportunities.”

The installation will commence at GraniteHill in the new year.

Some 52 projects across Australia will receive funding to deliver more than 400 additional beds and provide for higher needs like dementia care.

The ACCAP grants will also directly support not-for-profit providers and small community-based operators like Euroa Health to modernise their aged care homes and create employment opportunities.

“Older Australians deserve access to safe and quality aged care services – regardless of where they live,” Minister for Aged Care Anika Wells said.

“Round 2 of ACCAP will help rural and remote aged care providers like Euroa Health to deliver appropriate cultural care and create more home-like environments, with comfortable and modern amenities, more liveable spaces and fewer shared rooms.”

funding to capitalise on art tourism,” mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy said.

“I encourage everyone to

share their ideas and feedback on our Share Strathbogie engagement site.

“Your input will help shape a

detailed brief that we can provide to prospective artists in February.”

Unlike the process for commissioning Euroa’s magpie sculpture, council is not inviting votes on artwork submissions.

In a media release, council said: “This change ensures a professional, consistent approach to public art selection.”

The previous voting process was mired in controversy, with some artworks receiving multiple votes from the same IP address, amid accusations of cheating.

Feedback on www.share. strathbogie.vic.gov.au opened on Monday, December 9, and closes at 5pm on Monday, January 20.

Andy to join Gazette in 2025

in such a warm welcoming community,” Andy said.

across four states and at several universities.

Victorian senator Lisa Darmanin said: “These enhancements will provide a modern, comfortable environment that meets the needs of residents and their families.”

“Older Australians are the backbone of our communities, sharing their wisdom, experience, and contributions. It is essential we honour their legacy by providing them with the very best care, respect, and support,” she said.

ANDY Wilson will join The Euroa Gazette in 2025, replacing journalist Darren Chaitman, who le on Monday for a new role in Adelaide a er 20 months with the Gazette.

Andy is hardly a blow-in, having been a journalist with Country News for two years, featuring weekly in the Gazette’s print edition, including his column which just ended its run of adventurous snake stories.

“I am a bit of a local now and I gure it was time to get cosy

“I don’t live too far out of town and for me Euroa has been that ‘I-am-yet-todiscover-it-properly’ town.

“And I am certainly not blind to the fact that Darren has le me a newspaper of such high quality – I will take the baton and keep the momentum going.”

Prior to journalism, Andy was a post-doctoral agronomist with CSIRO in Brisbane and then had a 20-year career in education

He has, until recently, also moonlighted as a science editor of peer-reviewed papers for a Mumbai company.

Andy has even been a small-time cattle farmer in Tasmania, where he built his own cherry orchard.

“But this is quite di erent to all that went before; and it has been quite a journey to get here,” he said.

“This is di erent, this is now, this is something I am really looking forward to.”

Rainfall

(Euroa Township)

Some 32.8mm of rain fell in the week ending 10am Monday, December 9, including 21.4 on Tuesday, December 4, 0.6mm on Wednesday, December 4, 2.6mm on Saturday, December 7 and 8.2mm on Sunday, December 8,

SEEKING FRIENDS: Euroa’s magpie sculpture, pictured at its unveiling in 2023, could soon have more friends in town as council seeks input on a public art trail.

PHOTO: Dale Mann

Information

Do you care about the future use of rural and residential land in our Shire?

We want to hear from you before next Friday 13 December, on potential issues and opportunities that could shape the future use of land in our Shire. Your input will help us develop the Rural Residential and Land Use Strategy and Urban Growth Strategy. These key strategies will provide a blueprint for land use planning decisions over the next 15-30 years.

Council is seeking community input through broad community engagement over this month before an independently facilitated Community Panel meets in late February 2025 to help inform the direction of these key Strategies. Community members are encouraged to share thoughts that will help Council plan the locations of future residential development. This can be done by completing the online survey or attending a local drop-in event to learn more. Detailed information can be found at share.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/

Additionally, Council is inviting passionate individuals to join a Community Panel that will develop and present recommendations to help us create these strategies.

Expressions of interest are now open for up to 30 community members (18 years and older) to join a randomly selected Community Panel. Participants will receive a $100 gift card to recognise their valuable time commitment upon completion of the sessions. Have your say or complete and expression on interest at www.share.strathbogie.vic.gov.au

Council will be at the Euroa Twilight Market

We have partnered with Inland Rail and will be present at their dropin session to gather your thoughts on areas outside the scope of the Inland Rail Project. These include your ideas for inclusion in the Euroa Railway Precinct Masterplan.

Our goal is to ensure the Precinct connects seamlessly with the main street, key features of Euroa and the railway while providing essential and engaging public spaces where community and visitors can gather and enjoy.

Join Us at the Drop-in Sessions between 4.30pm – 8.30pm

Your voice matters—share your ideas for Euroa’s future!

Fire Danger Period has begun

The CFA restricts the use of fire in the community during the Fire Danger Period, to help prevent fires from starting. It’s important to know these restrictions.

Visit the CFA website to learn more

and find out what you can and can’t do during the Fire Danger Period: www.cfa.vic.gov.au

Council has begun Fire Hazard Inspections

With summer approaching, Council is set to commence its annual Fire Hazard Inspection program. During this time, Council O cers will inspect properties across the area to ensure they are free from unmanaged fuel sources, such as long grass, fallen branches, and leaves, which pose a risk during bushfire season.

If a property is identified as a fire hazard, a Fire Prevention Notice may be issued, requesting that owners reduce fire risks to protect lives and property. We appreciate the community’s support and cooperation as we work together to keep our region safe this bushfire season.

Our swimming pools are now open see times here

1 December to 15 December, Opening from 3pm to 7pm, 7 days a week 16 December to 2 February, Opening from 12pm to 7pm, 7 days a week

3 February to 10 March, Opening from 3pm – 7pm Monday to Friday 12pm – 7pm Saturday and Sunday

Check out our website for all the hours and how ratepayers and residents can activate season passes. Promote your local upcoming event

Are you running a local event this year, or in early 2025? Submit an online application to feature your event in the What’s On listing on Council’s website. Submit your event at www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/ promote-an-event, or to check out what events are coming up visit www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/whats-on

Is your local business, club, or community group listed in Council’s online community directory?

We’re eager to promote all the many diverse businesses, clubs and community groups within Strathbogie Shire. If you would like to join our database, visit our website to fill in our online form www.strathbogie.vic. gov.au/promote-my-business. Your local business, club or community group will then be shown in our Strathbogie Community Directory at www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/directory Careers at Strathbogie

We are looking for talented people to join our team

Community and Planning Compliance O cer

Nagambie Tip Shop to open

STRATHBOGIE Shire

Council will o cially open the Tip Shop at Nagambie Transfer Station in a celebration on Saturday from 9am to noon.

The Tip Shop has been accepting recyclable items for months, and council o cers think this is worth celebrating.

Council is encouraging locals to bring along items to recycle and to explore second-hand treasures priced between $1 and $20.

Nagambie Men’s Shed will host a sausage sizzle fundraiser for the occasion.

“We can all do with a gentle reminder to clean out our cupboards and reuse what we can,” Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy said in a media release.

“The adage of one person’s trash is another’s treasure has never been truer as we all strive collectively for greater sustainability.”

Council sta will be onsite to answer recycling questions and accept reusable item donations that meet the acceptance criteria.

Proceeds from the Nagambie Tip Shop support the operation of the Nagambie Transfer Station.

WHEN: Saturday, December 14 from 9am to 12pm

WHERE: Nagambie Transfer Station, 854 McDonalds Rd, Nagambie

• Full time, permanent opportunity

• Band 6 - $42.56779 per hour

• Applications close 9am, Monday 13 January 2025

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

Follow us for regular updates @strathbogieshire

FRIDAY DECEMBER 13TH

5.30PM - 9PM

BINNEY STREET, EUROA

TIP SHOP PARTY: Strathbogie Shire Council will o icially open Nagambie Tip Shop on Saturday.

Talented council director resigns

By DARREN CHAITMAN

A MEMBER of Strathbogie Shire Council’s executive leadership team, infrastructure director John Harvey, resigned in recent weeks.

This masthead understands Mr Harvey is recovering from a knee operation, but has been unable to conrm the reason for his resignation.

Disappointed community members said the council o cer – who joined council in late 2023 – was down-to-earth, e ective and a candid communicator.

“The whole saleyards committee would be extremely disappointed that he’s gone,” Euroa Saleyard committee member Richard McGeehan said.

“He was a very down-to-earth and practical person who delivered on his word.”

The farmer said Mr Harvey had been instrumental in seeing council nally build a double-bay truck wash at the Euroa Saleyard.

“He was the only person out of the whole shire… who ever supported the project to build the truck wash,” Mr McGeehan said.

earth, effective and candid

“No one else gave a toss, seriously.

“He came to us with solutions. Everybody else put roadblocks in our way.

“They just said, ‘too hard, too expensive, can’t do’.”

Euroa’s Frank Pierce, who worked with Mr Harvey at VicRoads in the 90s, said it would be “a serious understatement” to say he had been good value for council.

“I was absolutely gutted when I

found out [that he resigned],” Mr Pierce said.

“He was pretty straight to the point. Technically, he was very sound, and he handled people very well.

“I was delighted and surprised that he ended up [at Strathbogie Shire Council] because I knew his quality.

“He was an absolute breath fresh air, and I know the sta liked him very much.”

Euroa’s Shirley Saywell said “in

every dealing with him… his integrity and candour shone through”.

Earlier this year, Mr Harvey introduced a practice of publishing a detailed overview showing the progress of each item in council’s capital works program, as an attachment to council’s monthly meeting agenda.

The overview does not appear in this month’s meeting agenda.

Strathbogie Shire Council is seeking a replacement for Mr Harvey.

A council spokesperson declined to say when or why Mr Harvey resigned.

“As an organisation, we do not comment on individual sta members’ employment matters,” the spokesperson said.

“We acknowledge his popularity and the respect he garnered, and we wish him the best.”

This masthead was unable to contact Mr Harvey last week.

By CATIE HILL

EUROA Health has held successful community consultation sessions for strategic planning. Community members shared their ideas and health needs as Euroa Health plans for the 2025-2030 years ahead.

CEO Melissa Seymour said: “We are pleased to have heard from residents, families, service users, Euroa Health members and the local community their perspectives and insights, so we can ensure Euroa Health priorities are aligned to the local health, aged care and community needs.”

With the consultation sessions complete, there are still opportunities for members of the community to contact consultant Alicia Cunningham of The Writing Room on her mobile, 0421 479 621, or email: alicia@ thewritingroom. com.au to arrange a preferred time and date for an individual conversation.

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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

YOUR GAZETTE TEAM

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

Member

solutions to reduce heat buildup and reduce water runo .

In the light of climate change and forward planning, this design sadly pays more attention to cars than to pedestrians and cyclists.

Shade systems as well as tree planting/replacement are necessary now and into the future.

If we have to have long pedestrian ramps, please some more imaginative seating.

Mary Dean, Euroa Farewell to Darren

HAVE you heard that Darren’s leaving?

It is with much regret, since he’s been such an asset, as we know, to the Gazette.

So, Darren, though you’re moving on and shortly will depart, we wish you all the very best sincerely from the heart.

Craig Penny, Terip Terip Thanks to this masthead

BIG thanks to Darren, AKA “this masthead”, for gracing us with such great journalism in The Euroa Gazette.

You let the stories unfold and folks have their say.

And you might just have a cheeky or pithy observation here and there too, but always enhancing the story.

It’s easy to see why you are winning awards.

On behalf of I’m sure a big crowd of local fans, all power to you in your next reporting role over in SA.

Barb Trainor, Ru y

Labor supports the CFA

I WANT to set the record straight on reports regarding the CFA’s funding.

I know it has caused some fear and anger in our regional communities.

Reports of an almost $70m cut from the CFA are wrong.

Every year, a certain amount of money within our emergency services’ budgets is earmarked for speci c projects and services – like funding for the rollout of 18,000 new Motorola radios to brigades.

Setting aside these funds isn’t a cut.

Every dollar of these quarantined amounts is spent on CFA – directly bene tting the CFA and their volunteers.

Government departments manage many of these projects and they pay the bill.

It streamlines administration and takes the burden o emergency services so they can focus on what they do best –keeping Victorians safe.

This year, more than $337 million in CFA base funding has been allocated – an increase of almost $17 million on the comparable gure last year.

This doesn’t include the money we invest on top of this on new trucks, uniforms and upgrading stations.

The Fire Services Property Levy funds almost 78 per cent of the CFA’s total funding needs –not 25 per cent.

I know National Party members are out there with their negativity trying to spin a false narrative about cuts.

They should support, not scare country communities and stick to the facts.

Labor has delivered 80 new tankers since 2018, 22 are being built and 15 pumpers are on order.

The Nationals didn’t fund a single truck in their last few years in government, and they slashed $66 million from the CFA budget whilst in o ce.

It’s disappointing that I must correct this unhelpful misinformation, but it’s a further opportunity to recognise and thank our amazing CFA brigades and all emergency services.

I want you to know our government will always give you what you need to continue keeping Victorians safe.

Jaclyn Symes, Member for Northern Victoria, Minister for Emergency Services

Labor leaves us thankless

Ten years of Labor Government leaves Victorians with little to nothing to celebrate.

Victoria is now the highesttaxed state in the nation, with debt set to soar to a staggering $188 billion.

Victorians are set to be lumped with interest repayments of $25 million a day – over $1 million every hour.

Let that sink in.

Through no fault of your own you, your friends and your family – all Victorians – each owe $28,000 as our share of the debt.

This is all because the Labor Government can’t manage money, leaving you to pay the price.

Regional Victorians are not immune from the rocketing debt.

Cost-of-living is harder as a result of Labor’s 56 new or increased taxes.

Regional Victorians only receive 13 per cent of the Allan Government’s spend, despite 25 per cent of the population living in the country.

We are not getting our fair share, and it is eye watering that $40 billion has been wasted on city projects – imagine how that money could transform our regional roads, schools and hospitals.

Schools could be built in Kilmore and Heathcote, childcare facilities could be constructed in Seymour and Avenel, Goranwarrabul House could keep its doors open, and the Benalla Community Services Hub would still be in operation – and there would still be money le over for other crucial local projects.

Sadly, the nancial recklessness will continue as the premier has signed multi-billion contracts for the Suburban Rail Loop – another mega-project for the city.

Premier Allan can’t manage money, can’t manage projects and it is regional Victorians who pay the price.

Annabelle Cleeland, Member for Euroa

Stay fire-safe over summer

LAST week you might have noticed a pick-up in news articles and broadcasts forecasting a hot, dry summer, and high potential for re in some areas of the state.

That news has come from the seasonal summer outlook distributed on Thursday (November 28) by the Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authorities Council (AFAC), the national council for re and emergency services in Australia and New Zealand.

The Seasonal Bush re Outlook for Summer gives a picture of the likelihood of re over the summer months, at

both a state and national level.

This year’s outlook for Victoria predicts higher potential for re for most of western Victoria, as well as southwest Gippsland, including Mornington Peninsula, greater Melbourne and northeast Victoria.

The potential has been assessed this way because of the dry conditions in those areas, the availability of vegetation (e.g., grass, leaves, bark, shrubs and fallen branches) to “fuel” res, high temperatures and the continuing lack of rainfall to bring moisture to the landscape.

The re potential elsewhere in Victoria has been assessed as “normal”, but hot, dry and windy weather can still pose a risk in areas dominated by forests, woodlands, or dense, low shrubs.

“Normal” is no reason to be complacent, but you should know that Victoria is prepared and that our land and re agencies have worked all year to reduce our bush re risk.

Summer is a festive time in Victoria.

We o en have opportunities to steal a bit of magic as the year comes to an end – to come together with loved ones, to get away, to get in a bit more sleep –and a few more late nights, and to re ect on the year gone by.

But opportunity is never without responsibility.

Now is also the time to prepare yourself and your loved ones for the re season.

Here are some quick tips to help you get started.

1. Visit cfa.vic.gov.au to help you get started on a Bush re Plan so you know what you will do in case of re;

2. Download and get to know the VicEmergency app – then set up ‘watch zones’ and turn on noti cations to be kept up to date wherever you are;

3. Get to know the Australian Fire Danger Ratings System –and work out what re danger rating will trigger your Bush re Plan;

4. Plan your travel – head to exploreoutdoors.vic.gov.au to help you stay safe when visiting state forests; and

5. Never leave a camp re unattended – if they are cool to touch, they are safe to leave.

Wishing everyone a safe and happy festive season.

Chris Hardman, Chief Fire O cer, Forest Fire Management Victoria

EDITOR’S PICKS

The weed house

The ‘cannabis house’ of Euroa Provided a place for the grower Of weed, by accounts, In generous amounts; The police are in search of the sower.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This limerick responded to The Euroa Gazette’s July story, “Fire reveals secret Euroa cannabis house”.

Defiance

A nutter, loose and roaming free,

Took pot-shots at poor Donald T. What motivated him to sin?

With Donald gone, then Joe might win.

But Donald lives another day; He’s tough as nails, or so they say. With higher aims on his agenda, Donald Trump will not surrender!

EDITOR’S NOTE: This poem followed the first assassination attempt against Donald Trump.

A vision of America As he seems on the verge of expiring, Joe Biden should think of retiring. He mutters and mumbles, Forgets things and stumbles; A spectacle hardly inspiring.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This limerick followed Joe Biden’s infamously bad debate performance.

So says Inland Rail At Inland Rail we get our way no matter what the people say; Euroa’s Goods Shed’s had its day, for so says Inland Rail. Though you should grovel on your knees, we’ll do exactly as we please; accept defeat, and be at ease; concede to Inland Rail. We shall offer, as a token, rubble from the shed we’ve broken; so be content, for we have spoken here at Inland Rail.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This poem followed the destruction of the Euroa Goods Shed.

The “redneck” sign

The author of the “redneck” sign (attempting to be witty?) has cast a vile aspersion which, we must say, is a pity. That they could be so thoughtless and, undoubtedly, inane, gives every indication that they’ve only half a brain.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This poem followed someone hanging a sign reading “RED- NECK ALLEY” in Euroa next to corflutes promoting council candidates.

Gazette’s bard revealed

By DARREN CHAITMAN

SINCE July, Craig Penny’s poems, sent as letters to the editor, have been an almost weekly feature in The Euroa Gazette.

The 64-year-old Terip Terip man made his debut in this paper with a limerick about a fire that revealed a hydroponic cannabis set-up, which had been reported under the frontpage headline: “Fire reveals secret Euroa cannabis house”.

Mr Penny’s poem summed up the story perfectly: “The ‘cannabis house’ of Euroa / Provided a place for the grower / Of weed, by accounts, / In generous amounts; / The police are in search of the sower.”

This masthead was delighted, and curious: who was this mystery talent

hidden in the hills, with a surname that seemed to mirror the old-timey English charm of his poems?

Last week, the Penny finally dropped, descending from Terip Terip to Euroa for a tell-all interview.

Mr Penny credited the hymns he was exposed to at St David’s Presbyterian Church, at the border of Terip Terip and Ruffy, for instilling in him a love of rhymes from a young age.

He said the first poem he wrote was at age six, while he was in Eaglehawk, near Bendigo, for Christmas holidays with his grandparents, who he called Nana and Bampa.

“I remember writing a poem and telling it to my Nana, and she wrote it down,” Mr Penny said.

“When the Eaglehawk Baptist Church ladies’ guild started again,

she shared it with their group.”

Mr Penny remembered the poem had been about world peace, concluding: “No bomb to fall from up above / The whole world to be filled with love.”

At age seven, he asked his mum for a book of poems, which he received for his eighth birthday.

He has kept a well-worn copy of the book, The Golden Treasury of Poetry compiled by Louis Untermeyer, to this day.

The volume contains some of his favourite poets, including Alfred Noyes, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Leigh Hunt.

“I tend to prefer more traditional stuff,” Mr Penny said.

“For me, poetry should be something that’s either beautiful or has a bit of pathos or humour.

“And I prefer something short and to the point, more than trying to overdo it.

“Too much of poetry is not a good thing, in my opinion.”

Free verse poetry is not his thing, either.

“You do get some interesting things that don’t rhyme, but to me, poems rhyme, or most often should,” he said.

About three years ago, Mr Penny moved from Melbourne, where had lived and worked, back to his childhood home in Terip Terip to care for his elderly mother.

He has written poems here and there throughout his life – sometimes just to share with his family, occasionally for publication in a community newsletter.

A member of the Seven Day Ad-

ventist church since the 1990s, he has also written hymns.

Mr Penny said the headline referencing the “Euroa cannabis house” in July had sparked his first poem for the Gazette.

“I thought, ‘well, I could write something about that’,” he recalled.

“I didn’t know whether that was the sort of thing [the paper] would like or not, so, I just thought, ‘oh, there’s no harm sending it in’.

“But as [the editor] appreciates it, I thought I was glad to contribute.

“I’ve started a plastic folder with inserts I’m cutting out of the Gazette article that sort of inspired it, and then I’m putting the poem in the same leaf.”

Indeed, it is a good idea to save one’s pennies.

PENNY THE POET: Craig Penny with one of his favourite poetry books, which he received for his eighth birthday. PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

Hume and Hovell passed by 200 years ago. Do we still care?

Silence in contrast to huge celebration in 1924, writes Euroa historian Jeff Starkey

By JEFF STARKEY

IT has been walked around, run past and occasionally stared at, but mostly ignored. For 100 years, it has stood like a silent sentinel watching the hundreds of vehicles travel over ‘Burtons Bridge’, staring down a bitumen road which was once known by locals as the Hume Highway or the Old Sydney Road.

On a mild Thursday in November 1924, the scene at the cairn was vastly different. Over 1000 people had assembled. A sumptuous meal had been provided at the Seven Creeks Hotel where glasses were raised to the king and visitors honoured. Among their number was a knight of the realm from Melbourne, Sir James Barrett, an ophthalmologist. A truck with seats on its tray was parked opposite the soon to be unveiled cairn. The seats were occupied by Sir James, Euroa Shire councillors and other dignitaries.

This was not a spontaneous gathering. Months prior, meetings had been held,

not only at Euroa but also at Balmattum and Violet Town, all focused on deciding how best to celebrate the Hume and Hovell expedition. An o cial party had for three days toured the southward and northward routes taken by the explorers, unveiling 25 cairns and memorials between the Murray River and Seymour, including some of the members of this party who sat on the tray along with locals.

In 1824, Hamilton Hume and William Hovell led an expedition of discovery to nd new grazing land for the colony at Sydney, and to nd

an answer to the mystery of where the New South Wales western rivers owed. The party consisted of eight people: three servants each for Hume and Hovell, plus ve bullocks, three horses and two carts. It le Lake George on October 17 and a month later came to a ne river which Hume named a er his father, later to be called the Murray. The party rst saw their destination, Corio Bay, on December 16. Two days later they headed back to Sydney. They soon crossed the Goulburn River, probably at what is now Seymour.

The party passed through

EXPLORERS FORGOTTEN?: The Hume and Hovell cairn in Euroa “has been walked around, run past and occasionally stared at, but mostly ignored”, writes local historian Je Starkey.

this region in late December. According to the date on the cairn at Burton’s Bridge, this was December 29, 1824.

The following account is recorded in “Journey of Discovery to Port Phillip” by Messrs W.H. Hovell and Hamilton Hume, from 1824 and 1825, transcribed by W Bland.

 Monday, December 27 — the country in general level, but not ne, studded here and there with the Cow-pasturebox, stringy-bark, and the blue-gum, but which were neither numerous nor large. Towards the west,

a ne country like that of yesterday.

 Tuesday, December 28 — Thermometer, at noon, in the shade, 86. Route N E. about een miles over good land, scantily wooded, and intersected here and there, by ponds and small streams. The horizon from W. to N E. a perfect level, with but one hill observable in all that distance. Ranges still terminating abruptly on their right (towards the S E.)

 Wednesday, December 29 — Their course to-day was about N E., 15 or 16 miles over a level forest, with here and there a small

creek, owing towards the N W. The soil excellent, and the trees numerous, a stunted species of blue gum.

 Thursday, December 30 — Weather warm, they travel about 20 miles N E., traverse a very high barren collateral range, extending nearly due N. and by W., from which they obtain a distinct view of that remarkable mountain, named, from its peculiar con guration, Mount Bu alo.

The expedition had no impact on the region, nor on the establishment of Violet Town, Longwood and Euroa. Another explorer, Thomas Mitchell, was to have a more direct impact.

The stone for the cairn was from Longwood East, donated by Mrs Tubb. Sir James Barrett unveiled the monument, ‘God save the King’ was sung and everyone enjoyed a ‘monster’ picnic held by the banks of the Sevens Creek. Now, 200 years a er Hume and Hovell passed through the region, the event has scarcely raised an eyebrow. Why?

PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

INLAND Rail will remove the Euroa Goods Shed’s stone foundations this month.

The stone foundations have been le in-situ following Inland Rail’s demolition of the 150-year-old shed in October.

“The stone foundations have been identi ed as potentially suitable for reuse in the new station precinct and will be removed and stored securely,” an Inland Rail spokesperson said.

“Inland Rail is committed to working with community members interested in the heritage interpretation of the Goods Shed within the new station precinct design, more information will be shared as the design progresses.”

In November, Inland Rail released a report authored by a heritage consultancy, Trethowan, with options for “interpreting” the demolished shed.

However, EuroaConnect, the community group that rallied to save the shed, said they were not told about the report.

In a letter earlier this month to federal infrastructure minister Catherine King, EuroaConnect president John Simpson said:

“This report… has not been made available to us by Inland Rail and we have been given no advice of its preparation.”

The report can be viewed at inlandrail.info/euroadesign.

Australians get “dud deal” on supermarkets: Haines

By MIKE SMITH

THE Fairer for Families and Farmers and Other Measures Bill 2024 is a band-aid solution, not the bold reform Australians have been calling for, according to Member for Indi Helen Haines.

The legislation, she said, will not make life more di cult for the duopoly of Coles and Woolworths, who collectively control two thirds of the Australian grocery sector, putting them among the world’s

MP Helen Haines demands more be done to reign in Coles and Woolworths

most pro table supermarkets.

“It’s a disgrace,” she said.

“The way everyday Australians are struggling at the checkout.

“Putting items back, because of the exorbitant costs the supermarkets are imposing upon them.

“I want to see stronger reform targeted at looking a er farmers, consumers and suppliers.”

The daughter of dairy farmers, Dr Haines pointed to the $1 milk

price war waged by Coles and Woolworths at the expense of their suppliers’ livelihood.

“I’m calling on the government to bring in economy-wide divestiture powers,” she said.

“The big supermarkets are never going to look a er us.

“We need something tough to give the competition regulator the power to break up big businesses when it can prove that regular Australians

like all of those people that we represent are getting a dud deal.

“Corporate interest should never be prioritised over consumer interest in a sector as important as food and groceries.

“We’re not talking about discretionary items here, we’re talking about tonight’s dinner and tomorrow’s school lunch.”

Dr Haines said more needs to be done to protect the people of her

electorate; farming communities that act as the bedrock underpinning Australia’s food security.

“I’m always going to push for a fairer food system in this country, where farmers and all our incredible primary producers, and where agricultural communities more broadly, are supported and not undermined,” she said.

“I say to the government, do better on reigning in these big supermarkets.”

WHAT’S LEFT: The remains of the goods shed will be removed this month. PHOTO: Patrick Groot, Facebook

Euroa student to spend 2025 in Japan

By WILLIAM BUCKINGHAM

NEXT year’s Rotary exchange student will be 16-year-old Euroa Secondary College student Oakley Paul.

Early next year, Oakley will y to Japan to begin her academic year 11 at Toyama school.

Toyama is a city of approximately 415,000 people.

It has a long history dating from the sixth century and became prominent in the late 19th century as an industrial centre.

In August 1945, it was destroyed by allied bombing; but was quickly re-built to become a model of economic success and environmental sustainability.

The Rotary Youth Exchange program started in Australia in 1958 and among its many aims, it is designed to facilitate the learning of new languages and the discovery of new cultures.

There are nearly 9,000 Rotary exchange students worldwide.

EUROA SECONDARY COLLEGE’S OAKLEY PAUL TO COMPLETE

YEAR

11 IN TOYOMA THROUGH ROTARY PROGRAM

Euroa’s Oakley will be spending her exchange year with four host families for periods of approximately three months.

Speaking at Euroa Rotary Club’s recent AGM, Oakley said she looks

STRATHBOGIE Shire Council will deliver what it calls a “summer aqua funfest” from December to March.

The funfest will include Splash Park activities in Nagambie and pool parties at the Violet Town, Euroa, Avenel and Nagambie pools.

The free pool parties will feature games, free barbecues and outdoor cinema screenings. Food will be provided by Friends of the Pool volunteers. If the temperature drops below 23 degrees the day before the pool party, the event will be rescheduled and the pool will be closed.

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 – Avenel Pool from 3pm to 6.30pm Sunday, February 2, 2025 –Nagambie Pool from 3pm to 6.30pm

OUTDOOR CINEMA POOL PARTY DATES

Friday, January 24 2025 –Euroa Pool from 7pm to 10pm Sunday, February 16,

Youth Exchange at the Euroa Farmers Market.

forward to making lifelong friendships, mastering Japanese, and using every opportunity of personal development to share with her family and peers.

Oakley thanked her parents and

the youth committee of Rotary for their support. We all wish Oakley a successful exchange experience in Japan and look forward to her updates on the experience.

EXCITED: Oakley Paul raising funds for the Rotary

Indi Lib candidate opens office

By STEVE KELLY

LIBERAL candidate for Indi James Trenery is con dent he can win the seat of Indi at the 2025 Federal Election, a vision he shared at the opening of his Tone Road, Wangaratta campaign o ce on Friday.

Supported by Victorian Senator Sarah Henderson and two dozen local Liberal stalwarts, Mr Trenery admitted it would take a large swing in his favour if he is to defeat Independent Helen Haines, but he said he was doing everything he can to make it happen.

“The margin last time was 8 per cent, but it’s a big undertaking to do this and I wouldn’t have done this if I didn’t think I could win,” Mr Trenery said.

“It’s a lot of hard work and you’re starting from a long way behind but I think we can win.

“One of the things that’s changing is the apathy is gone in the community, the apathy disappeared when people got a power bill.

“They want to see result and good policies to x that and they

want that discussion to take place.

“It’s the same as the housing and I’ve got kids living at home because they’re trying to save up for a house because they and their friends can’t even get a rental.”

He praised the Wangaratta business community for their support and their desire to see change in Indi.

“The Wangaratta business community is unique and they have been absolutely fantastic,” he said.

LIBERAL CANDIDATE HAS BELIEF HE CAN BEAT HELEN HAINES AT THE 2025 FEDERAL ELECTION

“You’ll go to an event and 40-50 people will turn up, it’s not competitive and they want to know what they can do to support the community.”

The Liberal Party hasn’t held Indi since Sophie Mirabella lost the election in 2013 to Independent and Dr Haines’ predecessor Cathy McGowan.

But Ms Henderson said Mr Trenery is getting out to every cor-

ner of the community, connecting with every group and organisation, which goes a long way to winning their support.

“James has been door knocking and some people have never seen a politician on their doorstep in Indi before, it’s really exciting,” Ms Henderson said.

Mr Trenery will open a campaign o ce in Wodonga at some time in the new year.

Over half of young Australians have experienced sexual assault: report

OVER half (54 percent) of young Australians, aged around 16 to 19, experienced sexual harassment in the last 12 months, according to a new report from the Australian Institute of Family Studies.

The report considered the term sexual harassment to include touching and grabbing, sexual remarks and showing sexually explicit images.

Young females were more likely to have experienced sexual harassment than young males, at 65pc and 43pc respectively.

Young females were mostly subjected to sexual harassment by strangers, with young males mostly subjected to it by friends.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and/or queer (LGBTQ+) people

aged 18-19 years were more likely to experience sexual harassment than non-LGBTQ+ people (49pc compared to 31pc respectively).

The proportion was higher again for LGBTQ+ females aged 1819 years (59pc).

Of the 18–19-year-olds who had been sexually harassed in the past 12 months when surveyed in 2018, 48pc experienced it at a bar, club or party, 27pc online, 18pc at work, and 12pc at a place of study.

Some 40pc of 16-17 year-olds experienced sexual harassment at a place of study.

The research is based on data from Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC), which has been

following 10,000 children since 2004.

LSAC is managed by AIFS on behalf of the Department of Social Services.

Lead author and research fellow at AIFS, Dr Neha Swami, said the ndings indicate that more needs to be done to prevent sexual harassment, particularly online and in public spaces.

“Of the older teens we surveyed who had experienced sexual harassment, 53pc of females and 39pc of males experienced it at a party, club or bar – showing many young people have extremely negative experiences when trying to enjoy themselves on a night out,” Dr Swami said.

“Given more than one quarter

experienced sexual harassment online, programs and policies that support healthy interactions online – making it clear that certain comments and images can make people feel degraded and humiliated – could help.

“Strong mechanisms for reporting and responding to harassing behaviours in bars and clubs could also be a focus for helping reduce rates,” Dr Swami said.

The research revealed that having relationships with parents and friends characterised by trust and healthy communication at 16-17 years played a critical role in reducing the likelihood of experiencing sexual harassment at 18-19 years.

VIOLET TOWN TIDINGS

By KIRSTY HARRIS

THE Sharing the Dignity group thanks the VT community for the 27 bags of goodies for women donated at the VT Corner Store which will have a great impact.

Christmas arrived at the VT aged care centre last week.

The staff worked hard making Christmas goodies, decorating the lounge area, and providing harpist/ukulele player Di Mackrell to entertain with Christmas carols.

Our wandering puppeteer, Helena, entertained with her puppets and Madonna and Marg performed a rendition of the classic “There’s a Hole in My Bucket”.

Well done all.

The footy club is looking for families with children interested in playing under 10s football in 2025.

Boys and girls are welcome, so if you have a child or know of one turning nine or 10 in 2025 who wants to play football, please contact the club.

Two opportunities for carol singing in VT this festive season – Saturday, December 14 at St Dunstan’s Church at 5pm followed by a light supper, or Monday, December 16 at 7pm at the school.

Diary date: The Ellen Frances is holding its annual Yabbie Race Day on January 4, 2025 from 12.30pm along with a barbeque lunch.

The ad seems to say BYO yabbie if you want to partake. Auction, prizes and live music all part of the day.

The 2025 Honeysuckle Art Festival themed “Luminous” is on March 2–16, 2025 featuring artist Tim Bowtell.

The opening event is on Sunday, March 2 at 3pm and bookings are essential – please email honeysuckle3669@ gmail.com or ring 0408 981 435.

Enjoy the summer holidays, take a dip in our pool, support our local businesses so we don’t lose them and see you back in 2025.

READY FOR BATTLE: Liberal candidate for Indi James Trenery opens his new campaign o ice on the corner of Tone and Vincent roads, alongside Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson. PHOTO: Steve Kelly

Christmas is here at GraniteHill

Some 170 residents enjoyed a wonderful Christmas party at Euroa’s aged care facility

By CATIE HILL

LAST Friday, 170 residents and their guests celebrated at the annual GraniteHill residents’ Christmas party.

This extraordinary event has been in the planning since October, and sta from every department at Euroa Health worked tirelessly to ensure residents and their guests had a wonderful time.

It wouldn’t have been a

Christmas party without Santa, of course.

He was in the building, adding an extra touch of magic to the event.

Santa had his own special space for photos with residents and their guests, creating lasting memories.

A erward, he made his rounds, visiting all 20 tables individually to spread holiday cheer and say hello to everyone.

His presence truly made the event even more special for all in attendance.

Family member Lynne Ruscoe said: “This event was such a special opportunity to celebrate Christmas in a large social enviroment, where I could spend time with both my mum and dad in their home with the support of both sta and other family members, to just be together.”

“It was made even more meaningful with the support of the staff and other family members, all coming together to make it a memorable occasion,” she said.

“It wasn’t just about the festivities; it was about being together, enjoying each other’s company, and creating precious memories as a family.

“The warmth and support

from everyone made it truly unforgettable.”

In keeping with a family tradition, hearts melted as Lynne danced with her dad Keith McKie to the song

“Sweet Caroline”, which is a a moment that sta captured on video for Lynne to keep.

Resident Yvonne Devanny, who attended the party this year for the rst time, commented on Facebook: “As a resident I can stay that

it was an amazing party that could have only come about by all the hard work done by the sta and all concerned and THANK YOU TO YOU ALL.”

This makes all the hardwork and long hours by sta members worth every minute.

Euroa Health takes this opportunity to wish all the community a merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Benalla Services Hub to close: Cleeland

THE Benalla Community Services Hub, a crucial central location for 12 health and community agencies operating across North East Victoria, is set to close and leave some of the region’s most vulnerable people at risk.

The hub has been home to organisations including the Orange Door and The Centre Against Violence, providing a safe haven for victims of family violence to meet with support workers.

Despite this, news of the closure was announced in the middle of the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.

At least four of the 12 agencies who used the service recently pulled out of the collective building, leaving the hub with a major funding shortfall and an inability to keep their doors open.

The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, who immediately raised the issue with the Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, said the Allan Labor Government had been stripping much-needed funding away from organisations like The Orange Door in Benalla.

She slammed the closure as “completely unacceptable” and said to announce it during the 16 days of activism is “indefensible”, warning the community will be le in an “extremely vulnerable and dangerous position”.

“The Allan Labor Government has cut funding from Orange Door in Benalla when they can least a ord it, leaving an area rmly in the throes of a family violence epidemic at even greater risk,” Ms Cleeland said.

“This is an area with rates of family-based violence more than 70 per cent higher than the statewide average.

“Deciding to pull funding from an area like this, and then announcing the closure during the 16 days of gender-based violence is a damning indictment of Labor’s ability to keep our most vulnerable people safe.”

The Allan Labor Government has cut funding from Orange Door in Benalla when they can least afford it, leaving an area firmly in the throes of a family violence epidemic at even greater risk.

- NATIONALS’ MEMBER FOR EUROA, ANNABELLE CLEELAND

Ms Cleeland said services in regional Victoria continued to have funding pulled from them by the Allan Labor Government to cover exorbitant debt.

“Overspending and increasing debt levels caused by Melbournebased projects has seen this Government turn to Regional Victoria as a way of saving money,” Ms Cleeland said.

Euroa Third Age Club update

By JOAN OSBOURNE

THOSE involved in providing information to our members and the community via The Euroa Gazette are very sad to hear that Darren Chaitman is leaving The Euroa Gazette.

Since his arrival in Euroa, Darren has been extremely helpful in making sure anything that has been written relating to the club has appeared in the Gazette.

As not all our members use social media, it is important that they are informed of what is happening at the club.

I take this opportunity to wish all members of the club a very merry Christmas and a happy new year, and thank them for attending various activities or celebrations at the club this year.

We hope to see many at the Christmas lunch on Wednesday.

AFTER HOURS ACCESS: The keypad at Euroa Library allowing members to enter during unsta ed

Extended hours for Violet Town, Avenel libraries

“Unfortunately, it is our most vulnerable people who are suffering with cuts to mental health services, family violence support operators, community houses, hospitals, and maternity services.

“Cuts like this continue to demonstrate this government’s blatant disregard for regional Victoria and all of its residents.”

Regional Victorian kids more likely to be working

NEW data from Victoria’s child employment regulator shows kids in regional Victoria are more likely to join the workforce before the age of 15 than those in metropolitan Melbourne.

Victoria’s child employment laws require businesses to hold a child employment licence before they employ anyone under 15 and to notify Wage Inspectorate Victoria of any children they employ.

License data shows 52 percent of licenses are issued to regional

businesses and 49pc of kids in the workforce are in regional Victoria – despite census data suggesting there are three times as many kids living in metropolitan Melbourne.

Of regional areas, Barwon South West has the greatest number of kids under 15 working at 216, which represents 18pc of the state’s total.

Hume is next with 173 (14pc), followed by Gippsland at 111 (9pc).

This data does not include chil-

dren working in the entertainment industry, which has an industry speci c license.

The Wage Inspectorate wants regional businesses to understand the state’s child employment licensing system, and rules regarding supervision, rest breaks and working hours.

Child employment licenses are free, and businesses can employ multiple children under the one license.

Employing a child without a li-

cense is a crime and may be penalised.

“As a country kid myself, I’m not surprised to see so many country businesses giving local kids the opportunity to enter the workforce and earn their rst paycheck,” Commissioner of Wage Inspectorate Victoria Robert Hortle said.

“If regional kids are more likely to work, regional businesses have an even greater incentive to learn about child employment laws.”

AVENEL and Violet Town libraries are set to introduce extended access hours in February after a successful rollout at Euroa Library.

The initiative will allow library members to enter the library outside of staffed hours.

Members will punch a password onto a keypad and scan their library cards to enter.

People under 18 will not be allowed to access the building during unstaffed hours without a parent or guardian.

The libraries will be accessible from 8am to 8pm every day.

GV Libraries CEO Felicity Macchion said over 50 members of Euroa Library had signed up for extended access.

To sign up, members must complete an application form and a safety induction.

“The best thing about [it] is that these resources are available to use for longer hours,” Euroa Library’s Artridge said.

“People who couldn’t get here during our normal open hours can now come as late as 8pm at night to pick up their holds.”

Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland.

Books become angels in Already Read display

By MARY MANNING

EUROA’S Already Read Bookshop is already widely recognised for facilitating the recycling and re-using of books so that they can be re-read and re-loved.

Our Christmas window this year takes this commitment to another level with the re-purposing of old books to create a delightful choir of angels.

The display was created by the volunteer sta using “treasures” that have been donated.

The bookshop will also have a presence at the Twilight Market on December 13 with familyfriendly, free activities.

You can take a book on a “blind date” or the littlies can pose as an elf in the old-school photo booth.

The shop will also be open for

extended hours during the market so there will also be plenty of time to check out the wonderful stock.

Speaking outside the bookshop this week, Committee of Management member, Bernice McKinn, pointed out the exceptional value that can be found in the shop.

“There is something for everyone here, it is de nitely worth having a browse if you are looking for inexpensive and sustainable gi giving this Christmas,” she said.

The Already Read Bookshop raises funds on behalf of the Friends of the Euroa Library to support the work of the Euroa Library and to o er nancial encouragement of communitybased literacy programs.

By CHARLOTTE LANGMAN

THE Euroa Arboretum Bush Christmas window display at 37 Binney Street, Euroa, celebrates nature. Artwork displayed is handmade, foraged or made out of natural materials by local school children, parents and Euroa Arboretum sta and volunteers.

The project aims to promote handmade gi s whilst encouraging creativity and mindfulness through play and observation of nature.

Thank you to all the volunteers who have created works and put in many hours helping to display the installation. It has been a great joy to work with you all.

Thank you Jen for generously providing the space for this to happen.

If people would like to purchase wreaths, please contact me at the Euroa Arboretum on Mondays or Thursdays.

MERRY BUSH CHRISTMAS: The Euroa Arboretum’s Christmas window display.

ABOVE: WARDENS OF THE WINDOW: Already Read Bookshop volunteers Mary Manning and Bernice McKinn.

RIGHT: THE DISPLAY: Secondhand books have been repurposed to create a delightful choir of angels.

PHOTOS: Darren Chaitman

“Disappointing” delay on caged egg phase out at supermarkets

By KURT HICKLING

WOOLWORTHS and Coles have delayed their longpromised phase out of caged eggs from their stores “by 2025”, subtly amending the commitment to sometime “in 2025”.

Both supermarket giants have denied shi ing the goalposts, but Victorian Farmers Federation egg group vice president Tony Nesci said most Australians understood “by 2025” meant January 1, not sometime later in 2025.

For the past decade both retail giants have repeatedly stated they would phase out caged eggs by 2025, with Woolworths even winning a Compassion in World Farming good egg award for its commitment.

But the supermarkets have subtly changed the language used around the “by 2025” deadline in the wake of a national egg shortage, following this year’s 16 Avian in uenza outbreaks that led to the destruction of two million chickens.

Woolworths’ animal welfare policy website states “we continue to make pro-

gress towards our commitment that by 2025, all vendor brand shell eggs products will be cage-free.”

Thoona-based free range egg and chicken producer Jess Hair is concerned the phase out delay will have an impact on local producers and the health of caged birds is a problem.

Ms Harris, who runs 3000 chickens on 30 acres at Sprocket’s Free Range Eggs and Pullet Grower Farm, said there was an initial delay with caged birds as isolated outbreaks of Avian influenza did hold things up.

“However, caged egg farmers have had ample time since the original announcement to phase out cage eggs and convert to free range,” she said.

“The phasing out of caged eggs is all about the health and wellbeing of the birds that gives the chickens a better quality of life rather than being cooped up for the duration of their life.

“I give full support to the phase out, and it is frustrating that the big supermarkets are sitting on their promise, keeping in mind that 2025 is not too far away.

“Since COVID, people have become more self-sufcient by purchasing their own chooks through us and the trend is continuing more so with recent announcements as more locals look at

opportunities to save costs by purchasing their own chickens to produce their own eggs.

“Some locals are opting to have chickens at home and grow their own eggs to be self su cient and have hap-

py and healthy birds.

“The big supermarkets need to step it up and begin the transition now and implement their promises.

“Caged egg producers were pre-warned on June 1, 2023 to either convert their

operation to free range or close down their business.

“This situation is obviously frustrating as these businesses have families too, however, this change in direction is for the bene t of the consumer and the welfare of the birds.”

Industry gures suggest cage eggs currently make up 31 per cent of egg sales nationally, but with Aldi, Woolworths and Coles all agreeing to stop carrying caged eggs by 2025, market share is expected to fall within the next few years.

Ms Harris said she is already seeing more consumers embrace ‘free range’ options, with Sprocket’s sale of eggs and chickens, including at the Wangaratta Farmers Market, up this year compared to 2022.

“We go to the Saturday markets each week at Beechworth, Wangaratta, Bright and Mans eld and see the shi in purchase each week,” she said.

“The phase out of caged eggs is a win-win for caged birds and free-range farmers like us who focus on the health and wellbeing of birds.”

Euroa student’s famous reindeer

competition

ARTWORK by St John’s Primary School Euroa student

Clare Bickerton will feature on the cover of Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland’s Christmas card this year.

Claire’s drawing of a reindeer will sit beside drawings by Evie Holland of Puckapunyal Primary School and Macey Shields of St Mary’s College Seymour.

Ms Cleeland invited students from schools across the region to design a card that re ects what they love best about their local area, with a touch of Christmas.

Hundreds of entries were received this year, with Ms Cleeland excited to keep the tradition running for future years.

“I was looking for a design that meaningfully represented our great part of the state and I was very impressed with the way these students captured the spirit of Christmas in our region,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Our young students have incredible artistic talent and the designs they created were outstanding.

Spirit Matters

“HEAVEN TO EARTH”.

“The students took inspiration from a range of places and facets of life in our electorate, including our native animals, our warm Australian summer, as well as some classic drawings of Santa, reindeers, and Christmas trees.

“Looking through the beautiful designs our local students created was a wonderful way to end the year, and I sincerely thank the students and schools for taking the time to design a Christmas card for me this year.”

While Clare, Evie, and Macey

were announced as the overall winners, designs from 12 other students from schools across the region will be featured on the back of Ms Cleeland’s card.

ANGLICAN CHURCH

Saturday 14th December

Carols and Christmas Cheer 5pm St Dunstan’s Violet Town Sunday 15th December

Holy Eucharist

8am St Andrew’s Longwood

9.15am St Paul’s Euroa

Wednesday18th December

Holy Eucharist

10am St Paul’s Euroa Enq: 5704 0330

www.anglicaneuroa.org.au All welcome

BAPTIST CHURCH

31 Kennedy Street, Euroa Sunday December 15th, 10am

Tuesday: 9.30am Prayer, 10.30am Bible Study.

Listen to Vision Radio 88.4 FM

Enq: Pastor Rob Archer 0408 513 566

We’re born into a broken world, that seemingly grows more hostile and hopeless. We yearn for better days. Jesus came to bring Hope; to seek and save the lost. (Luke 19:10) Born in a lowly, little town Bethlehem, prophesy was fulfilled (Micah 5:2) when Caesar demanded a census be taken. Mary and Joseph had to travel there, near her delivery date. Jesus is Gods’ incarnate son, born to Mary, a virgin, by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Luke 1:35) Joseph was reassured of Marys faithfulness and honour, being chosen to carry Gods’ divine-human child. However, only an animal cave was available for the King of the World to be born in.(Isaiah 9:6) “For a child is born to us, a Son is given to us. The government will be upon His shoulders; He will be called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace”.

Born into troubled times Jesus lived 33 years among the people, finally teaching and guiding them in Gods’ Truth. Our Father sent His beloved Son, to be born and to die, at 33, on the cross; to make a way Home for all who will call upon His name and receive forgiveness and everlasting life. (John 3:16)

Like other God-inspired prophecies given centuries before; the life and death of Messiah, Yeshua, Jesus was accurately foretold by Isaiah and Micah. (Luke 24; 25-26) People search everywhere for answers to pain and need but God has set Eternity in our hearts.” (Eccles. 3:11). For our bodies to live, food and water exist, so for spiritual needs, provision exists to satisfy our deepest longings. (Matt.5:5-8).

While content doing our own thing, we don’t search for Gods’ Comfort. The parable of the Prodigal Son is a picture of us, to greater or lesser degree. (Luke 15:11-32) We’ve disdained and dishonoured the Lord and fallen short. (Rom. 3:23) This son eventually goes home, humble, ashamed, yet his loving father runs to him with open arms and celebrates his restoration. And there’s rejoicing in heaven over every soul saved. (Luke 15:7) When we find Christ, then, we’re adopted into Gods’ family, as Children of God. (John 1:12) Jesus Return draws closer with every war, famine and moral sliding, described as ‘birth pangs and groanings’. (Rom. 8:22) Let’s be ready, unafraid and fully aware of all His promises. It’s unwise to think only of our present brief life. This Christmas, can our quest be to discover our true destiny? Scriptural prophesies are 100% fulfilled and the remainder will be, so why not read the Bible yourself?

“For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long”. (2 Cor.4:17) The Joys to come will last forever. Matt. 28:20 “I am with you always, even to the end of the age”.

Let’s be thankful for the birth of Jesus Christ, anointed Saviour of the world, who came to defeat the works of the evil one, operating ever more brazenly, as Jesus Victorious return draws nigh. Emmanuel, God with us.

Euroa Baptist Church

(You-tube songs: “Isaiah 9” by Xander Stok; “God Is With Us” by Casting Crowns; “What Child Is This?” by Laura Dagle.)

“In the eyes of our children, Christmas is about being together, sharing a meal, and making lasting memories,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Our littlest people remind us of the true spirit of the season through their creativity and show us that presence is more important than presents.

“This competition celebrates the talent of our young artists and the spirit of our community.”

These include Sammy (Heathcote Primary School), Lani (Nagambie Primary School), Lily (Stanhope Primary School), Lucas (St Patrick’s Kilmore), Dusty (Broadford Primary School), Jaymz (Seymour College), Finley (St Joseph’s Nagambie), Sully (St Joseph’s Benalla), Vince (St Mary’s Rushworth), Zara (Girgarre Primary School), Nyah (Euroa Primary School), and Maddi (Benalla P-12).

Euroa Lions Club spreading Christmas fruit cake cheer

Once again, the Euroa Lions Club have donated to the residents of GraniteHill two boxes of individually wrapped 80gms fruit cakes.

The fruitcakes were hand-delivered by Euroa Lions Club President, Peter Penman who spoke of the club’s excitement to donate the boxes again this year so each resident of GraniteHill is able to enjoy the traditional Christmas cake.

Many thanks to the Lions Club of Euroa for their delicious delivery.

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST Services at Kelvin View Hall

Sunday December 15th

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 Wednesday 8am Mass Friday 12.30pm Mass

Saturday Vigil Mass 6pm St. John’s Church Euroa Sunday Mass

8.30am St Patrick’s Longwood 10.30am St Attracta’s Violet Town Enquiries: Fr Tony Hill 5795 3048 For Baptisms and weddings please contact Fr Tony or the Parish Office

UNITING CHURCH

St Andrew’s, Euroa

Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am

Everyone Welcome

Enq: Robyn Burke 5795 3103 Judi Ward 0437 686 072

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

Enq: Joan Wood 5795 1175

St Andrew’s Violet Town

Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am All welcome

Enq: John Dunn 0419 362 866

EUROA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

Old School House, Clifton St Euroa

Every Sunday Meeting at 9.45am for prayer requests. 10am service

Enquiries: Aaron 0493 101 663

MERRY CHRISTMAS: Claire’s drawing of a reindeer will sit beside drawings by Evie Holland of Puckapunyal Primary School and Macey Shields of St Mary’s College Seymour.

Regulator seeks input on default electricity prices for 2025–26

THE Essential Services Commission is seeking input from industry, community groups, consumers and other interested parties on its approach to setting Victoria’s default electricity price for 2025–26.

The commission independently sets the Victorian Default O er each year.

The Victorian Default O er is the default electricity price Victorian households and small business customers pay if they haven’t chosen a di erent market o er and is based on the e cient cost of the sale of electricity by a retailer.

Essential Services Commission chairperson Gerard Brody said the Victorian Default O er is an important consumer safeguard.

“The Victorian Default O er provides price protections for electricity customers who do not engage with the energy market and acts as a benchmark price to compare

market o ers against,” Mr Brody said.

“Each year we review the di erent costs that make up electricity bills, including wholesale electricity costs, the cost of getting energy to customers, and retailer operating margins.

“We want to hear from stakeholders about the approach we use to set our cost benchmarks and whether they can be improved.”

To make a submission, visit the Engage Victoria website before December 24.

In June 2024, the Victorian Default O er applied to around 334,000 (or 13 per cent of) households and 57,000 (or 20 per cent of) small businesses.

The Victorian Default O er is also a maximum price for most customers in an embedded network, covering around 180,000 customers.

Commissioner Brody said that while the Victorian Default O er is a valuable consumer protection, Victorians should still shop around for the best electricity o er available to them.

“While the Victorian Default Offer plays a key role as a benchmark price, the vast majority of electricity customers are on market contracts, which are o en less expensive than the Victorian Default O er,” he said.

“I’d urge all Victorian energy customers to make a habit of regularly visiting the free and independent Victorian Government energy price comparison site Victorian Energy Compare to nd the best energy deal based on their own unique circumstances.”

The 2025–26 Victorian Default Offer dra decision will be published for consultation in March 2025, with a nal decision in May 2025.

The best way to reach the Strathbogie Shire

45-47 Railway Street, Euroa, Victoria 3666

RAE, Thomas Duncan.

Passed away peacefully at G V Health, Shepparton on December 3, 2024.

Aged 80 years.

Loved by Betty.

Loved and adored father and father-in-law of Karren and Damian (O’Connor), Kellie and Leon (Masterman-Smith), and Kim.

Treasured Poppy Tom of Christopher (and Grace), Jacob, Laura, Madison, Mason, Makie and Great Pop of Matilda, Amelia, Jovie and Attie.

‘ Loved and remembered always’

Vale RAE, Tom.

Euroa FNC wish to pass on condolences to family and friends on the recent passing of Tom Rae.

Tom was a wonderful supporter of Euroa FNC and will be missed. May he rest in peace.

BEREAVEMENT THANKS

CROXFORD, Gwen.

The family of the late Gwen Croxford would like to thank our extended family and many friends who attended Gwen’s funeral. Your kind expressions of sympathy and support during this di cult time has been greatly appreciated.

A special thank you to the Uniting Church, Je rey and Samm Moore – Floyd Funeral Services, and Lyn Smith (Caterer).

Thank you to Dr Jimmy and Dr Alston and sta at Euroa Medical Centre. Also Palliative Care in Benalla and Shepparton for their care.

RAE

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Mr Thomas Duncan Rae will be held at the Euroa Lawn Cemetery, Faithfuls Creek Road, Euroa on Monday, December 16, 2024 commencing at 11am.

N.J. TODD

Member AFDA

EUROA 1800 352 425 BENALLA (03) 5762 2461

BEREAVEMENT THANKS

AUSTIN, David.

Thank you to everyone who attended David’s Memorial Service and /or sent cards, condolences and owers.

Special thanks to the celebrant – Rhonda Edwards, Damien at N J Todd Funeral Directors and members of the Seymour Bowling Club for catering a er the service.

The support of friends, neighbours, ex-clients and WATCO members has been deeply appreciated.

~ Zel Austin.

To Mum’s personal carers at Care4You and Simply Helping, a special thanks and acknowledgement to you for your compassion, thoughtfulness and support whilst caring for our precious Mum.

~ Jan, Helen and family.

IN MEMORIAM

CHRYSTAL, Jennifer. “G’Ma”

11/12/47 – 21/1/2022

Happy Heavenly Birthday G’ma.

The universe took you away before we were ready to say goodbye, Your energy felt, your struggles heard, The angels saw you getting tired and a cure was not meant to be, The angels came, they whispered “come to me”.

With tearful eyes, we watched and saw you pass away, although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay, A golden heart stopped beating, but the love shared will always live on.

Thankyou for the memories.

Love always, forever and longer.

~ Manda, Jai, Chelsea, Sean and Seb.

N J Todd Funeral Directors

Member AFDA

Servicing Euroa & District since 1937

Damien Feehan

Justin Feehan

ROAD CLOSURE NOTIFICATION

Be advised that CLIFTON ST, EUROA will be CLOSED Northbound on Thursday, December 12, 2024 from 9am to 3pm to conduct scheduled works. Reduced Speed Limits and Tra ic Control will be in place with delays of up to 10 minutes. We appreciate your patience.

January 15, 2025 3pm

January 13, 2025 O ice Hours: Open: Weekdays 9am – 5pm Closed from: 5pm, Friday, December 20 Re-open from: 9am, Thursday, January 9, 2025

We would like to wish all our advertisers and readers a Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year!

Position Vacant Savs Equip Hire & Pumps

Located in Euroa

We are looking for someone to work Full-Time in our busy shop front. The position may be suited to someone with a mechanical background or experience with machinery.

Duties will include:

• Taking customer bookings

• Processing payments

• Cleaning & preparing equipment

• Loading equipment, providing demonstrations

• Delivering equipment

• Unloading & un-packing deliveries

Drivers licence is essential- forkli & truck licence would be an advantage as well as some general knowledge in water pumps. If this sounds like you or you would like any further information, we would love to hear from you.

You can email a resume to cam@savshire. com.au or phone 0409 185 185.

ROAD CLOSURE

Binney Street, between Brock and Railways Streets. Friday, December 13, 2024 3.30pm – 9.30pm CHRISTMAS TWILIGHT STREET PARTY AND LATE-NIGHT SHOPPING Pedestrian access will remain.

2 HOUSEHOLD COMBINED HUGE RANGE Saturday, December 14 8am-1pm NO early callers

37 Butter Factory Lane, cnr Lydiards Road,Euroa

KAWASAKI KDX

2012 MAZDA CX5, Reg 1YO 2ZV, 218,000kms, Fastidious Owner, priced to sell $11,500 with RWC, Phone Max Batey 0419 547 308.

2012 MAZDA CX5, Reg AAR 254, 225,000kms, Fastidious Owner, priced to sell $11,500 with RWC, Phone Max Batey. 0419 547 308

2019 Toyota Corolla Accent auto, RWC, Vic plates, Reg 1MC-5HL, 22,500 km, services. Mum can no longer drive, Wangaratta. $21,500. Ph Geo a er 5pm 0408 089 276.

2010 Mazda CX7 SUV, auto, sold with RWC, 163,000km, reg till Jan 25 (YBD451), $7900, LMCT9246, 44 Newman Street, Wangaratta. Ph 0428 257 221.

2015 green manual Mitsubushi Mirage, towbar, 167,000km, rego till Feb 25 (1GH7HB), RWC, $3500. Ph 0428 257 221.

250 SR, great bike, in VGC, currently REC REG1993 md, $3400. Phone 0407316788.

2005 Toyota Corolla Ascent Hatchback (TIZ667) May 15. 126,000km, manual, 17" alloy wheels, TRD upgrades, tinted windows, excellent condition $8000. Ph 0438 988 608.

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

TRAVELLER Australia Penthouse (Y32913), semi o road caravan, very little use, full annex, slide out Weber, gas bottles, slide out storage box (slides out either side), 170kW Solar, queen size bed, Power operated li up storage under bed, stove and oven, large fridge, TV, microwave, radio, washing machine and clothes dryer, full large ensuite and air conditioner. $35,000. PH 0429 809 643.

CAMPER TRAILER, in very good order, REG and ready for camping, (bought a caravan so no longer needed) $2400. REG T48 771. Phone 0407 316 788.

Longest Day Golf Challenge returns to Euroa for Cancer Research

GVVGA

By ROLF WEBER

KIALLA Golf Club was in excellent condition for the Goulburn Valley veteran golfers’ final round of the 2024 season.

The weather was perfect ranging from 19 to 29oC and with a gentle breeze during play for the 69 players.

The rain over the last couple of weeks, together with the voluntary staff at the club, posted the course in the best of conditions; of which all Kialla Golf Club members can be proud.

The club hosted a two course Christmas meal after the game which was well received by the ravenous players.

After the meal Captain Pooch welcomed everyone to the country club and announced the winners for the day.

A-Grade winner was Greg Reynoldson, Bamawn, 37 stableford points; and runner-up was Mick McAuliffe, Valley View, 345pts.

B-Grade winner was Brian Reiners, Kialla, 31 pts; from Mario Gagliardi, Kialla, 31 pts.

C-Grade winner was Clyde Hammond, Kialla, 34 pts; from Ian Clarke, Kialla, 31 pts.

Nearest the pin was contested on the 111 metre long, 11th hole with Graeme Willoughby, Deniliquin.

Best in A-Grade; Bill Murphy, Mooroopna, in B-Grade; and Des Ramsey, Deniliquin, in C-Grade.

Ball winners in A Grade were Peter Jeffery, Cosgrove; Graeme Willoughby, Deniliquin; Ray Coleman, Parkland; Shane Pollock, Kialla; Jim Dean, Kialla; Pooch McHale, Valley View; Allan Newby, Numurkah; Rolf Weber, Mooroopna; Geoff Hamill, Shepparton.

B Grade winners included John King, Rich River; John Phillips, Mooroopna; Kevin Taylor, Shepparton; Richard Stockdale, Parkland; Geoff Stone, Numurkah.

C Grade ball Winners were Geoff Squires, Valley View; Des Ramsey, Deniliquin; Lindsay Tatterson, Parkland; and Ken Harris, Shepparton.

The results of the GVVGA Championship event were

announced at this event.

Players recorded their best two of the three rounds to produce the result.

A Grade winner Peter Jeffery from Cosgrove on 156 Gross.

Runner up Graeme Willoughby from Deniliquin on 160 Gross.

B Grade winner Greg Austin ofrom Mooroopna on 77Pts.

Runner up David Fullager from Avenel on 72Pts.

C Grade winner Robert Frame from Mooroopna on 79 pts.

Runner up John Phillips from Mooroopna on 74 Pts.

The next event will be a 4BBB at Parklands on January 20.

Registrations will be on summertime, meaning register by 8.30 am or meet the wrath of Captain Pooch.

EUROA LADIES GOLF

By DEBRA COX

AFTER missing a couple of weeks of golf due to rain, a Stableford round of 18 holes was played by nine women on Wednesday December 4.

Despite the improved weather the results, with one exception, were not particularly inspiring.

Winner of Division 1/2 was Levenia Redfern with 35 points.

Levenia is a very reliable and consistent player and was the only woman to make the cut.

Congratulations Levenia. Ball down the line went to Robin Lied on 29 points.

There was only one Nearest the Pin awarded and that was the 12th hole which went to Gail Allen. Ironically that is one of the hardest NTP’s.

The Club retained the eighth and 18th.

Drive and Pitch on the fifth went to Freda Edwards and 15th to Gail Allen.

Saturday December 7 was our Monthly Medal which is always a stroke round.

The Monthly Medal is sponsored by Drummond Golf.

Winner of B Scratch was also up for grabs.

The weather forecast may have been a deterrent as there were only eight women competing for

these sought after prizes.

I gather that the seven women who played in the afternoon became thoroughly drenched in the unexpected hailstorm as they played their final few holes.

That is true dedication.

Notwithstanding the adverse weather some impressive scores were posted.

Winner of Division 1/2 was Gail Allen with nett 73.

Gail also took home the Monthly Medal.

Well done Gail, you are obviously still in top form coming off the Championships.

Winner of B Scratch, with another good score, was Robyn Anthony with 74 nett.

Least putts went to Levenia Redfern with 29.

Nearest the Pins.

Eighth: The Club, 12th: Marion Mc Martin and 18th to Gail Allen.

Gail also won both Drive and Pitch on the fifth and 15th.

Thanks to Drummond Golf for their sponsorship.

Next Wednesday will be Stableford and Saturday will be Par.

Let’s hope for more agreeable weather.

NAGAMBIE GOLF CLUB

By DAVID LOVE

NAGAMBIE golfers were keen to get at it after the previous Sunday event was cancelled due to wet ground conditions, 150mm of rain fell across a 10-day period this in turn transformed the course from what was becoming a dry and firm track back to lush green shot makers delight.

The December monthly medal was on offer with 33 players teeing it up, two young guns battled it out at the top of the leaderboard with Ryan Ezard taking the win with his best round to date 80-13-67, an eagle on the par five 9th hole helping the cause.

Runner up was Rhys Shepherd showing off his skills in the tough breezy conditions with a controlled 83-12-71, next best was Steve Donnison knocking out 86-14-72.

The nearest the pins were difficult

to get at especially the third and 16th not being hit due to the strong southerly, John Hurley hit the dance floor on the long par three, eighth and Dean Brown fired an accurate iron onto the 13th.

Next week’s golf will be the 2nd round of the summer trophy it will be a stroke event on office duty is M. Sloan and in the bat D. Phelan.

STRATHBOGIE GOLF CLUB

By KRISTEN MOORE

THIS Saturday it was a humid start and then came the big thunderstorm and we got wet for two holes, and way dry by the time we finished.

The course was in great condition and thanks to everyone for getting it ready.

Winner of the day was Grant Pearce with a great net score of 71.

He also was the Monthly Medal winner for this month.

Lineballs were won by Carmel Lineham with a nett score of 72 and Chris Bennett with a nett score of 75, on a countback from Kristen Moore with a nett score of 75.

Nearest the pins they were hard to get this week, the only person to get on was John Moore on the eighth.

Men’s drive and pitch winner was Grant Pearce and Ladies drive and pitch winner was Kristen Moore.

The putting was won by Grant Pearce with a great 25 puts.

Next week playing Stableford and Allan Rowarth is on duty.

EUROA GOLF CLUB

By RICHARD JOHNSON

THE threatening weather forecast reduced the Drummond Golf Sponsored Monthly Medal field to just 31 players on Saturday.

The morning group had the umbrellas out for a couple of holes; however a very inconveniently timed thunderstorm and downpour sent the afternoon field scurrying for cover late in their rounds.

Up and coming junior Alex Burton was the Division two winner with a net 66 and also takes out the Monthly Medal.

and Glen Burton who each also had net 70s.

Sam Mills, Charlie Watson, Lucas Paul and Laurie McMartin all had 71 net.

The course is playing very well as evidenced by three under par rounds from Paul Robinson, Matt Mills and Ed Carracher.

Ed’s impressive round included another eagle on the thirteenth, as well as two ball birdies on each of the eighth, 15th and 18th holes winning Nearest the Pin on two of those.

The afternoon storm threw hail and 15mm of rain at the players flooding many of the greens and saw some of the players even taking shelter in the pump shed to escape the storm.

The Friday Twilight round was also impacted by summer storms with just 11 players getting their round in before the storm again cleared the course.

The winner was Lachie Robinson with 20 points.

The Stableford competition on Wednesday had 17 players with Paul Redfern producing a big win on 41 points in front of Pete McMahon on 37 with Lucas Paul, Peter Bath, Ross Wishhart and Charlie Walker on 36 points.

This week there will be the regular Wednesday Stableford and Friday Twilight comps and next Saturday will be a par event.

Thursday will see the Lads and Ladies team take on the Longest Day Golf Challenge where players take on a massive 72 holes, the equivalent of four rounds in just one day. As well as being an enormous physical challenge, the Golf Australia event is a major fundraiser for Cancer Research.

The Euroa contingent is being led by Scott Watson and is into its fifth year having raised more than $20,000 for cancer research over the journey.

The public and members are invited out to the course to encourage the team and support this very worthwhile cause.

DRIVING FORCE: Vaughan Kirk delivers a powerful drive. FROM BACK PAGE

Euroa Bowls Club celebrates Tim Scarlett’s 200th weekend Pennant game

EUROA BOWLS CLUB

By GREG BLATCHFORD

IT has been another huge week at the club with action a plenty.

For mine the highlight was club stalwart Tim Scarlett playing his 200th game of Weekend Pennant.

Well done Tim - we are in no doubt that he has at least 200 more in the tank.

We also held our Christmas Party which was a wonderful night lled with (dare I say it) fun and frivolity.

The food was excellent and the entertainment rst rate with several of our members showing that their moves on the dance oor are as good as their skills on the green. Thanks to all who played a part in putting the evening together.

On a more somber note, we also farewelled Barry Hatchman who has been a great club member and friend over the years and will be sorely missed.

We wish Barry and Janelle all the best for the future and hope Barry nds a Bowling Green within walking distance of his new home.

Our Christmas ra e has also been run and won as follows – Steve (1st prize), Lenis Ralston (2nd), Phil Merry (3rd), Joe (4th), Neal Healey (5th) and Lindsay Cocking (6th). Congratulations to the winners and thanks to all who supported the club by either buying or selling tickets or donating prizes.

In addition, we also got to play some bowls even though the early summer rain again caused some disruption.

In Mid-Week Pennant Division one had a great victory over Shepp Golf and Division four prevailed over East Shepp however the Division ve game against Violet Town was cancelled due to the green being unplayable.

Division one versus Shepp Golf –51 to 48 and 12 points.

Shane Drysdale, Bill Sargood, Don Steers and Kerrie Steers 13-18.

Ken Sutcli e, Bill Taylor, Anne Sutcli e and David Cerini 15-19.

Tony Kingma, Kev Milner, Charmaine Reid and Kristeen Boyce 2311.

Division four versus East Shepp – 66 to 49 and 16 points.

Doug Maconachie, Richard Noble, Beryl Harris and Jan Sheargold 24-15.

Jim Perry, Margaretha Cerini, Greg Blatchford and Dot Lomer 24-18.

Peter Naughton, Libby Byrne, Mary Steen and Bu y McFarlane 18-16.

Next week Division’s one and four are both at home taking on Kyabram and Alexandra respectively whilst Division ve comes up against Tatura Hilltop at the Tatura green.

Ladder Positions at the conclusion of seven rounds are:

Division one - 8th with 34 points.

Division four – 2nd with 86 points.

Division ve – 2nd with 70 points.

In Weekend Pennant Division one were competitive in all rinks despite going down to Shepp Park, Division four took the points over Merrigum whilst the Division six match got hit by the storm and had to be called o a er the green

PERFECT PLACEMENT: Mark Jervies delivers a beautifully weighted bowl.

turned into a swimming pool. 37 ends had been completed however 45 are required to constitute a match. When the rain and hail came we were seven shots up (39 to 32) with two rinks leading and the third starting to catch up to Tracey McConnell.

Division one versus Shepp Park – 67 to 89 and 0 points.

Tony Kingma, Jeremy Boruch, Barry Hatchman and Sam Barkly 15 – 22.

Peter Naughton, Marc Stevens, Kev Milner and Margaretha Cerini 14 – 20.

Shane Drysdale, Bill Sargood, Bill Jennings and John Groat 21 –28.

Ken Sutcli e, Bill Taylor, Don Steers and David Cerini 17 – 19.

Division four versus Merrigum –74 to 59 and 15 points.

Jim Perry, Charmaine Reid, Bu y McFarlane and Max Gri ths 18 – 20.

Doug Maconachie, Jamie Greasley, Tim Scarlett and Ross Withers 16 – 14.

Richard Noble, Lindsay Cocking, Kerrie Steers and Noel Moon 15 – 15.

Alex Grant, Libby Byrne, Lance Carracher and Anne Sutcli e 2510.

Ladder Positions a er eight rounds:

Division one - 8th with 37 points.

Division four – 1st with 100 points.

Division six – 3rd with 81 points.

This Saturday is the last round prior to the Christmas break and we have all three sides playing at home.

Division one against Kyabram,

Division four Mooroopna and Division six Alexandra.

A reminder to all pennant players – roll-up is 15 minutes prior to the scheduled starting time of matches, and I have no doubt that our Team Managers would appreciate it if we all arrived 15 minutes prior to roll-up.

Finally, the latest Ni y 50 winners are Pauline Naylor and Kev (three times this year so far) Milner.

All the best and bowl well.

AVENEL BOWLS CLUB

By KATE DONOVAN

MIDWEEK PENNANT DIVISION THREE.

SECOND placed Avenel played third placed Numurkah at home last Tuesday.

Boy, what a game.

No more than a handful of shots separated the teams for the entire match.

It came down to the last bowl of the day with Avenel victorious by one point 14 – 53 to 2 – 52 to re-gain top spot on the ladder.

Pam Pedder, Grace Kenworthy, Glen Bell, Dennis McGregor (s). Hung on in there till they won the lead on the 18th end.

Then holding the opposition to only one shot over the last ve ends saw them across the winning line by three, 20 – 17.

James Wall, Kate Donovan, Geo Hateley, Spud Furletti (s) had secured a handy seven shot lead by the 16th end.

They then lost the last ve ends but held on to win the game by the

merest margin, one shot 16 – 15.

Jenny Furletti, Graham Lewis, Fay Hateley, Noel Slater (s) lost their game 17 – 20 but in a tense nish where Numurkah needed two shots to draw the match and three to win, Avenel had a perfectly positioned second shot bowl and held on to it for the overall win.

The next game for Avenel is at home against Mooroopna Golf.

MIDWEEK DIVISION SIX.

Avenel hosted Mooroopna Golf and had a sixteen shot, and two rink win over the visitors 14 – 45 to 0 – 29.

Ron Harrison, Moiann Papageorgiou, Nyoli Bell, Ross Sinclair (s) were behind in the rst half in a close game.

In the second half they all found line and length to come storming home scoring fourteen shots to one for a 27 – 14 win.

Marg Harrison, Robyn Hyland, Bill O’Connor, Marion Gittus (s) were behind till the 18th end when they won the last four ends and the lead for a three shot win 18 – 15.

Avenel play Rushworth at home next Tuesday.

WEEKEND DIVISION THREE.

Avenel needed a win playing against Rushworth on its home grass to secure a spot in the top four.

But Rushworth were to good wining all four rinks 18 – 99 to 0 –70.

Howard Geldard, Kate Donovan, Geo Hateley, Spud Furletti (s) scored a ve on the last end before smoko to win the lead 13 – 11.

Resuming from the break Avenel lost ve ends in a row for Rushworth to surge ahead for a three

shot win 26 – 23.

Jenny Furletti, Graham Lewis, Fay Hateley, Noel Slater (s) were down by fourteen shots by the 16th end.

They won the last ve ends scoring eight shots to restore some creditability but not enough to win the game with Rushworth the better team 21 – 15.

Pam Pedder, Charlie Kemp, Donna Rowley, Jake Wall (s) were down eleven shots when they scored seven in two ends to be within four shots of winning the game on the last end.

But it was Rushworth who prevailed with a three on the last end to win the game 17 – 24.

Grace Kenworthy, Glen Bell, Brett McDonald, Dennis McGregor (s) were within reach of winning its game when Rushworth put the foot down scoring nine shots over the last three ends for the win 28 – 16. The next game is at home against Shepparton Golf.

WEEKEND DIVISION SIX

Playing Seymour at home, the visitors were too good for Avenel with a two rink win 14 – 42 to 0 – 22. Walter Pedder, Moiann Papageorgiou, Marg Harrison, Ross Sinclair (s) got o to a faultless start, up 10 zip a er the rst ve ends.

Seymour struck back winning the next eight ends that set up a two shot win 16 – 14.

Kyle Pedder, Mark Morse, Ron Harrison, Marion Gittus (s)just didn’t have a good day against an accurate Seymour team who went from strength to strength winning 26 – 8.

Avenel play Mooroopna Golf away in the next game.

Euroa Bowls Club.

PHOTOS: Dale Mann

HAPPY AS LARRY: Ken Drysdale smiles a er an enjoyable day on the green.

PREPARATION IS KEY: Jannike Kruger carefully prepares to deliver the perfect roll.

EASY ROLL: James Dunn demonstrates excellent

Euroa Clay Target Club enjoys celebratory Christmas shoot-up

By JOHN KING

THE Christmas spirit featured high at the Euroa Clay Target Club’s annual Christmas shoot on Sunday November 8.

With lots of prizes on o er for Christmas cheer and some wonderful food on the tables, it was pleasing that there were a large number of competitors in attendance.

With Alana Towers and Heather Crosbie in charge of the catering we sat down to a very enjoyable lunch and the pulled pork supplied by Scott Towers was very tasty.

Meanwhile on the shooting side, the cooler conditions were very comfortable, but the rather strong wind made for some interesting target variations.

Veteran Fred Heinze proved to be the best on the day and another couple of let’s say, on the older side, Euroa’s Rob Stackhouse and Colbinabbin’s Julian Avery proved age is no barrier by shooting the only possible in the Turkey Deauville Doubles event beating all comers by two targets.

Full results:

20t Tower P/S Chook Shoot.

1st AA Grade F,Heinze (Alexandra) 53/60.

2nd AA S.Stokes (Colbinabbin) 49/60.

1st A D.Clark (Mans eld) 56/60.

2nd A S.Towers (Euroa) 44/60. 1st B G.McClure (Alexandra) 55/60.

2nd B J.Foulkes (Euroa) 50/60. 1st C C.Petersen (Alexandra) 56/60.

2nd C T.McGrath (Alexandra) 46/60.

25t Graded Ham Shoot

1st AA Grade F.Heinze (Alexandra) 33/33.

2nd AA A.Rohrlach (Euroa) 32/33.

1st A K.Elwood (Alexandra) 24/25.

2nd A S.Towers (Euroa) 24/26.

1st B L.Tonks (Euroa) 36/36.

2nd B G.McClure (Alexandra) 25/36.

1st C R.Stackhouse (Euroa) 25/25.

2nd C J.Avery (Colbinabbin) 24/25.

20t Hamper Handicap

1st S.Wilson (Mans eld) 21/21.

2nd P.Elwood (Alexandra) 20/21.

3rd J.Foulkes (Euroa) 28/29.

B/M F.Heinze (Alexandra) 17/20.

20pr Deaville Doubles Turkey Shoot

1st R.Stackhouse (Euroa) & J.Avery (Colbinabbin) 20/20.

2nd L.Fitzgerald (Colbinabbin & L.Fitzpatrick (Euroa) 25/27.

The Euroa Club committee and members wish all shooters a very Merry Christmas and good shooting for the New Year.

The Club’s 2025 competition program begins with The Koala Cherries Championships on Sunday January 12.

Usual practice on Wednesday afternoons from 1 to 3 pm.

FULLY COMMITTED: Troy Van Den Berghe stretches to his limits to return the shot

ON THE ATTACK: Rowena Ellis unleashes a powerful forehand across the net.

PHOTOS: Dale Mann

PRECISION PLAY: Caide Miller sets up for a clean, deliberate shot.

ATTACKING THE NET: Levi Berry charges forward, ready to hunt down the ball.

GREAT GAME: Kevin Bott reflects on an enjoyable match.

HOT SHOTS: Kim Flack leads the kids through a skills session, helping them sharpen their technique and have fun on the court.

200TH PENNANT GAME

By CAROLINE KEENAN

IT was a weekend of mixed results for Euroa sides competing at home and across the Goulburn Valley on Saturday.

The men’s side was without its number one man in Bede Redfern when it took on Tongala at Tongala in the GMLTA Open division.

It was an old-fashioned arm-wrestle that went down to the wire with Euroa White emerging the victor by the slimmest of margins.

Keigan Hicks and Dublin Anderson both played well to contribute to their side’s success.

The final score was Tongala 62 to Euroa White 64.

Euroa Blue travelled to Shepparton where it came up against a very strong McEwen Reserve outfit.

In another tight contest, it came down to the mixed sets where the Euroa side failed to gain the advantage.

The final score was Euroa Blue 63 to McEwen Reserve 71.

In section three of the GMLTA, Euroa Red retains top billing on the ladder after a comfortable win over a young Kyabram Bombers side.

The side, bolstered by handy fill-ins in Kevin Bott and Molly Redfern, won with 39 games in hand.

Jake Hill has retained his unblemished singles record, accounting for a big-hitting 11-year-old and Kevin Bott also won his three sets.

The final score was Euroa Red 73 to Kyabram Bombers 34.

The news is less happy for Euroa Green, which lowered its colours to a strong Tatura Tornados.

Judy Sands was a standout with her neversay-die approach to win two sets and lose the third in a tie-breaker.

The final score was Euroa Green 53 to Tatura 68.

And in the Benalla and District Tennis Association, Euroa Lawn retains top spot on the Division one ladder after accounting for Benalla Lawn Green.

The side claimed all nine sets with Julie Brook and Rowena Ellis combining to win their set 8-1.

The final score was Euroa 72 to Benalla 39.

And Euroa Lawn didn’t take to the court in Division two after Violet Town forfeited.

EUROA WHITE EDGES TONGALA IN NAIL-BITING OPEN DIVISION CLASH

Nic Hill anchors Euroa to 7/101 before rain stops play

By JACK WILSON

A

GRADE

EUROA A Grade team faced Mooroopna at the Friendlies Oval, with Captain Scott Hamilton winning the toss and opting to bat rst.

Euroa encountered early diculties, losing three wickets for 21 runs within the initial ten overs.

Nic Hill and Scott Hamilton established a 43-run partnership before Hamilton was dismissed for 21 runs.

Subsequently, Hill and Shammy continued to build the score until Hill was dismissed a er scoring 31 runs.

The match was interrupted by a storm, resulting in the day’s play being called o .

Euroa is set to resume next week at 7-101.

SCORECARD: Euroa 7/101 (N. Hil 33, S Hamilton 21) o 34.5 overs v Mooroopna

E GRADE

EUROA travelled to Vibert Reserve for their Round nine match of the E Grade season against Karramomus.

Captain Connor McCombe won the toss and chose to bat rst.

Euroa’s innings began with an initial setback, losing three wickets for 20 runs within the rst eight overs.

Ben Jones and Mitch Gleeson then took on the responsibility of stabilising Euroa’s innings by forming a 64-run partnership.

Including eight fours and two sixes, before Jones was dismissed for 37 runs.

Gleeson followed a few overs later, departing for 35 runs.

Although Euroa continued to accumulate runs, they also experienced regular wicket losses, ultimately culminating in being all out for 159 runs in the 37th over.

With 160 runs to defend, Euroa faced a challenging start in the rst half of the run chase as Karramo-

mus reached the drinks break at 0-72.

The breakthrough did not come until the 23rd over when Cooper Goodall secured a wicket, caught by Jones behind the stumps.

Shortly therea er, Leo Murphy delivered a spinning ball that disrupted the stumps, marking his rst wicket of the game.

Jack Wilson added to the wickets column by delivering a wide ball that was hit straight to Dion Grant.

The turning point occurred in the 35th over, beginning with a mix-up at the striker’s end that allowed Wilson to execute an easy runout, followed by Leo catching a

ball at mid-o , giving Jack his second wicket.

In the 37th over, Paddy Murphy executed a remarkable runout, and in the subsequent over, Leo claimed his second wicket. Despite these e orts, Karramomus ultimately won the game, successfully chasing the total with seven balls remaining.

Euroa has another away game next week at Kialla against Old Students with the rst ball at 12:30pm.

SCORECARD: Euroa 159 (B Jones 37, M Gleeson 35) def by Karramomus 7-160 (L Murphy 2-23, J Wilson 2-26)

DOUBLE THREAT: Troy Van Den Berghe shows o his backhand finesse.