HEALTHY MIX OF TOWNS, PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUNDS REPRESENTED IN TEAM REPLACING ADMINISTRATOR
FIRST PREFERENCE VOTES CANDIDATE
THE NEW TEAM C n ATOR
Three former mayors are in the new council group, which has seen the areas represented by the previous wardbased structure replicated, despite Strathbogie Shire Council moving to an unsubdivided structure this year.
PHOTOS: Darren Chaitman
Scott Jeffery (1st elected) ........................1265
Christopher Raeburn..................................300
Jim Billings .................................................226
Stephen Mahon ..........................................194
Robin Weatherald.......................................188
Strathbogie Shire’s
DIVERSITY of towns, professional backgrounds and genders is reflected in the Strathbogie Shire’s new group of councillors, who were officially declared elected on Friday. Despite the shire moving to an unsubdivided electoral structure this year, the results have replicated the areas represented by the previous ward-based structure, with two councillors from Euroa (Vicki Halsall and Greg Carlson), two from Nagambie (Fiona Stevens and Claire EwartKennedy), one from Avenel (Scott
BY DARREN CHAITMAN dchaitman@ nemedia.com.au
Jeffery), one from near Violet Town (Laura Binks) and one from Strathbogie (Clark Holloway).
Female councillors outnumber males 4:3 in the new group, putting to rest fears the new council would be too heavily maledominated after male candidates outnumbered females 15:10, with three of the ladies announcing
their candidacies late in the game.
Four in the team are new to local government, while three have served as councillors (and mayors): Gregory Carlson, Laura Binks and Fiona Stevens.
Ms Binks was the only successful candidate from the council team of 2020-2024 which had been dismissed by the state government, with other suspended councillors Chris Raeburn and Robin Weatherald falling short of enough support for re-election.
An architect by trade, Laura Binks’ record as mayor and her message that council’s suspension was the necessary measure to flush out her poorly behaving colleagues, appears to have cut through with voters.
Avenel’s Scott Jeffery, a former BHP senior engineer and manager who now runs a management consulting business, was the shire’s most popular candidate, receiving 17 percent of all first preference votes.
■ Continued page 2
LAURA BINKS GREG CARLSON CLARK HOLLOWAY
CLAIRE EWART-KENNEDY VICKI HALSALL
SCOTT JEFFERY FIONA STEVENS
Spirit Matters LIGHT AND DARK.
In Australia, millions of dollars are spent on Halloween events. It arrived around 1800’s with Irish/Scottish immigration. Originally called, All Hallows Eve, before Nov 1st and 2nd, All Saints and All Souls Day; when families, (in Christian nations still) visit cemeteries laying flowers in remembrance of loved ones. Largely directed to children, Halloween is presented as entertainment, and promoted by schools, yet lifts up darkness, scary imagery and stuff of nightmares, that none would want as real. Macabre images aren’t for the faint-hearted, nor believers, who know the Truth concerning good versus evil forces. (Ephes. 6:12) Few people know Gods’ warnings to steer clear of all ‘occult’ worship and practice. (Deut. 18:10,11, 2 Kings 9:22, Gal.5:20,)
Dabbling in the para-normal, can become addictive strongholds, as some testify, leading to fear, depression, suicide. People openly declare themselves witches, warlocks and members of Satanist clubs. (some cast spells over President Trump). Shouldn’t we think seriously about exposing ourselves and precious children to dark elements in the name of fun? God, instead advocates in Phil 4:8 ‘to seek only the noble, virtuous things.” Jesus warned, ‘those who cause innocents to stumble..’(Matt.18:6); Rather, ‘teach your children the right way to go.’ (Prov. 22:6)
After Jesus, Christianity spread across the world, abolishing common pagan worship practice; often sexualised, harming of children to false gods. However, in the West 1960’s rejection of God began spreading, faith was deemed ‘unnecessary’, God called dead! Generations since, haven’t benefited from hearing of Jesus and Christian teachings. Judeo-Christian law formerly governed well, but gradually watered down for so-called progressive ideas. Our world seems a confused mess; because Light is ignored and darkness allowed entry. The 1970’s revolution, led many to abuse freedom to choose; loving their own ways, getting high, dropping out; yet sadly many paid dearly with early deaths, disease and children conceived in broken families. God is not a kill-joy but our Joy-Giver;(Neh.8:10) the One who truly cares about human Wholeness. (Neh. 8:10)
Rabbi Jonathon Cahn book “Return Of The Gods” shows how paganism is retuning. (not secular neutrality). If a cleaned sanctuary is left as a vacuum, squatting or ‘more unclean spirits return.’ (Matt.12:43-45) Many famous brands have adopted pagan icons. eg Nike, Starbucks, Amazon. The list is long.
By contrast, 31st October, can be remembered historically. Australias’ 4th Light Horse Brigade, instrumental in winning back Israels’ land in 1917, conquered Beersheba, as the Otterman Empire fell. God used our far-flung small nation, to play an integral part in prophetic fulfillment.
(Isaiah 66.8, jer.29:14, Psalm 126:1)
On 31st Oct. 1517, Martin Luther, nailed his 95-point protest on Wittenbergs’ Church doors: beginning the Protestant Reformation and the freedom of all, to read Scripture, experience relationship and forgiveness personally from Jesus, and not pay for Indulgences from corrupt leadership. Simple pursuits can turn harmful, so let’s not be sheep following, going astray, but stay on Gods’ narrow path and avoid the broad path that leads to destruction! (Matt.7:13-14) Because, after all_God is NOT dead!!
Euroa Baptist Church
(Google/Y-tube: Psychological effects of Halloween; Ex-warlocks dire warning about the dangers of Halloween)
ELECTION MANAGER: Strathbogie Shire Council election manager, Avenel’s Helen Gwilliam, announced the official results in the council chamber on Friday.
Strathbogie Shire’s new councillors
■ From front page
Next most popular was Fiona Stevens, a retired police officer with eight years’ experience as a Mitchell Shire councillor, who is in the process of relocating to Nagambie.
With her background in media and politics (as a Liberal and Nationals staffer), Wahring resident Claire Ewart-Kennedy’s strong campaign appears to have been rewarded, securing the third highest number of first preference votes.
Euroa house renovator Vicki Halsall, in fourth place after preferences, has described herself as apolitical and has previously said she would seek to bring community expectations and council delivery closer together.
Euroa’s Gregory Carlson, a conservative-leaning farmer, will return to council after a 16year break, having last served as a councillor in 2008, with three years under his belt as Strathbogie Shire Council’s mayor.
Strathbogie’s Clark Holloway – a former US Navy officer turned financial consultant –has come in at seventh place, securing a spot despite being relatively little-known when he
was one of the first to announce his candidacy.
Some 7895 people voted in the election, representing 83.9 percent of the 9409 voters on the electoral roll.
Of those, 547 people (6.9pc) did not have their votes counted because their ballots were completed incorrectly.
The councillors-elect will be sworn in during a meeting at the council chamber on Tuesday, November 12, ending council’s 11 months of administration that began in December 2023 with the suspension of councillors.
The group will elect their mayor and deputy mayor at another meeting on Tuesday, November 19.
Interim CEO Tim Tamlin congratulated the new team in a media statement.
“This is really an exciting time for our community, and I am looking forward to getting to know each of them as we work through a comprehensive transition program,” he said.
“Returning to an elected council is something our community has been keen to see.”
One of the group’s first tasks
will be creating the 2025-29 council plan, a key document which sets much of the council’s work over the next four years. The group will meet under the watchful eye of a government-appointed monitor, Marg Allan, with monitors having been appointed to all Victorian councils under administration in the previous term. Monitor-turned-administrator Peter Stephenson said goodbye and thanked the shire community and council staff when he chaired his final meeting in October.
On Australia Day 2025 we celebrate how fortunate we are to be Australians together as one. We mark the day with an official ceremony and free family BBQ commencing at 11am at the Lions Park in Hemely Avenue Euroa Nominations are now invited for all award categories and close on December 16th 2024. Please write and post your nominations to : Australia Day Committee PO BOX 20 Euroa 3666. Include the Category and the name of the person/business/event that you are nominating. Also please include your name and contact details as the nominator, and provide a statement supporting your nomination up to a maximum of 500 words.
BUSINESS ORGANISATION AWARD
This award acknowledges and highlights the continued success and achievements of a local business that has made a significant contribution through its service delivery and its support of the local community.
YOUNG CITIZEN AWARD 2025
This award recognises the future generation of Euroa. Nominees will display characteristics that set them above the ordinary. They are entrepreneurial in spirit and are involved in the community.
COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR AWARD 2025
This award recognises a community event that was organised in Euroa and took place during 2024.
SPIRIT OF EUROA AWARD 2025
This award recognises a senior member of our community who sets the bar high. Nominees will have a strong history of activity within the community and will be synonymous with volunteering.
COMMUNITY ORGANISATION AWARD 2025
This award recognises a volunteer community organisation that has demonstrated success and excellence whilst making a significant contribution to the social fabric of our community.
This Community Event and Australia Day Awards are presented by volunteers of The Euroa Australia Day Committee. Our official ceremony is supported by the Euroa Lions Club and Rotary Euroa.
REVIEWING RESULTS: Unsuccessful candidate Jimmy Davidson of Euroa, who came in eighth place, reviewing the preference distributions on Thursday with a VEC worker.
MASKED PHOTOGRAPHER: Strathbogie Shire Council interim CEO filmed the provisional election results declaration on Thursday.
PHOTOS: Darren Chaitman
Inland Rail releases updated design of Euroa railway precinct
INLAND Rail has released the latest design of the Euroa railway station precinct and is inviting more feedback before construction begins next year.
New visualisations in a YouTube video showcase additional parking surrounding the station and the new Anderson Street vehicle underpass, showing how it will connect with existing roads.
An Inland Rail media release said the company and its construction partner John Holland will “undertake a month-long community engagement process to gather feedback on the landscaping, urban design finishes, colour palettes and heritage interpretation options”.
Updates will also be provided on road detour routes and construction plans.
The precinct designs along with more information can be viewed, and feedback shared, until December 13 at inlandrail. info/euroadesign.
Inland Rail will also seek
feedback at drop-in sessions at their shopfront and the Euroa Farmers’ Markets (November 16) and Euroa Twilight Market (December 13).
The concept plan, required by the Minister for Planning as part of Inland Rail’s project approval, will be available for
Second fatal crash in Euroa over cup weekend
A SECOND driver died on Euroa’s roads on Melbourne Cup Weekend following the tragic loss of 18-year-old local Cassie Rawlings just days earlier.
Emergency services responded to a single vehicle crash in Euroa on Tuesday morning last week, finding the vehicle overturned on the side of Euroa-Shepparton Road just after 8.30am.
The driver and only occupant died at the scene.
Police last week said the circumstances of the crash were yet to be determined.
Euroa burnout man fined, banned from driving
A 19-YEAR-OLD Euroa man has been convicted of driving in a dangerous manner after he did burnouts on the corner of Binney and Brock streets at 4pm one July afternoon, The Shepparton News has reported.
A Benalla magistrate slapped the man with a $1500 fine and 12-month driving ban, describing the behaviour, which was captured on CCTV, as “absolute dangerous stupidity”, according to the report.
written submissions from November 18 to December 15.
Inland Rail has also released a report authored by a heritage consultancy, Trethowan, with options for “interpreting” the Euroa Goods Shed, which was demolished last month after a community campaign ulti-
mately failed to save the disused 150-year-old structure.
The options include large format signage featuring a brief account with key stories of the site and historical images and drawings; a wall mural; small format signage; and reusing structural materials in a “vignette” format that displays each material with a small sign explaining its history.
The report also suggests “a local artist could be commissioned to create a sculpture using salvaged materials from the goods shed”.
The report, and an online survey seeking feedback on the heritage options and precinct design, can be found at inlandrail.info/euroadesign.
Construction is scheduled for early 2025, to be completed by 2027.
Maddy Cakebreak,
and Aaryan Bhasi.
THE UNDERPASS: The Anderson Street vehicle underpass, pictured from the west.
STATION FORECOURT: Landscaping at the proposed new station forecourt at Railway Street.
Community Information
New Councillors convene for first meeting
The first Council meeting for the new cohort of Councillors will be held Tuesday 19 November at the Euroa Conference Centre, Bury Street Euroa at 6pm. This will be a statutory meeting at which the Councillors will elect the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and Board/Committee Representatives for 2024-25. The agenda will be available on the website Friday 15 November 2024. The gallery will be open to visitors. The meeting will be livestreamed at www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au and we encourage community members to watch the meeting via this option. Fire Danger Period began Monday 11 November 2024
The Fire Danger Period began at 1.00am Monday 11 November 2024 for Strathbogie Shire.
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 to Begin Fire Hazard Inspections
With summer approaching, Council is set to commence its annual Fire Hazard Inspection program. During this time, Council Officers 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 found to present 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. Does your volunteer organisation want to win that grant?
There is a free grant writing workshop for not-for-profit committees being held at the Strathbogie Memorial Hall on Thursday 14 November from 1pm - 4pm. To reserve your place please call 1800 065 993. Do you care about the future use of rural and residential land in our Shire?
Between 11 November to 13 December, we want to hear your thoughts on potential issues and opportunities that could impact the future use of land in this Shire. Your thoughts will help us develop the Rural Residential and Land Use Strategy and Urban Growth Strategy– see more details on how you can be involved in our advertisement in today’s paper.
Make a splash at Nagambie Splash Park
The Nagambie Splash Park is open for the season, and operates from 9am-8pm at Buckley Park, Blayney Lane, Nagambie. The free splash park features a variety of water play equipment including a giant bucket, water slides, sprinkler tunnels and rings. The splash park is set in a beautifully grassed area overlooking Lake Nagambie and is co-located with several BBQ areas, picnic seating areas and a public toilet. Please note the Splash Park only operates on days when the forecast temperature is 22 degrees Celsius and above, and it is closed in extreme weather.
Council’s 2023-24 Annual Report
You can read Council’s 2023-24 on our website www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au
The report was presented and accepted at the October Council meeting.
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 of 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 Old batteries
Batteries placed in household bins can cause fires, either in the bins themselves or in trucks collecting them. They also contain toxic substances which are harmful to you, your family and the environment.
Strathbogie Shire has battery recycle bins at all Transfer Stations and in our Customer Service Centers in Euroa and Nagambie. Learn more about battery safety and the circular economy by visiting www.sustainability.vic.gov.au
Kool Schools Awards Night coming up
Strathbogie youth are gearing up for their presentation at the The Kool Skools Awards Night to be held on the 30 November Melbourne. The night will showcase and celebrate the best songs and performances and is modelled on the Aria Awards and features well known industry personalities.
Council interim CEO Tim Tamlin says it is still too early to decide whether he will apply to stay on as a longerterm CEO, as he turns his focus to delivering a transition program to induct the new councillors.
“People in the community ask me all the time, ‘come on, are you going to put in, Tim?’ I say it’s a bit early to tell,” he said.
“Honestly, I wouldn’t put in if the councillor group wanted a different skillset.
“They might have a certain view of where they want to take this community, and they might need a specific type of skillset to do that, which might not be [the one] I have.
“There’s lots of consideration to do; I’ve got my own family stuff to consider.
“They say that the selection of the CEO is the most important thing a council does.”
The interim CEO has proved popular with community members since beginning the role in July.
Mr Tamlin said he would need to excuse himself from assisting councillors with the CEO recruitment process if he decides to apply, because that would present a conflict of interest.
But he reiterated he is not ready to commit to a decision.
“The idea is to have somebody available to step into the role around about June, July… before my contract ends,” he said.
The recruitment of a CEO, a significant early task for the new team of councillors, is one of the topics to be discussed in what Mr Tamlin has described as a “comprehensive transition program” for the councillors.
The program includes full-day mandatory training sessions to be delivered by the Victorian Local Governance Association in Novem-
ber and December, which will cover topics such as the role of the mayor and deputy mayor, and building an effective council team.
Mr Tamlin has also set aside days for more general discussions with the team.
“I’ll be asking the councillors, ‘Are you happy with the program we’ve put together? Is there anything you want to tweak? Make it your own’,” he said
“It’s their program.
“I want them to have buy-in to … the transition program.”
Councillors will be sworn in on Tuesday, November 12 and will elect a mayor and deputy mayor on Tuesday, November 17.
“My role is to support the mayor and the councilors,” Mr Tamlin said.
“That’s the first thing and that’s what I’m here to do.
“Having a really comprehensive program is very important to make sure that they feel supported and that they have a say in this.”
MONITOR 4.0: Marg Allan, pictured at the results declaration on Friday, is council’s fourth monitor appointment since 2021. Janet Dore was appointed twice and Peter Stephenson once.
Monitor Marg’s in as Peter broaches rockier terrain
By DARREN CHAITMAN
MARG Allan will be Strathbogie Shire Council’s municipal monitor until November 2025, as past monitor and administrator Peter Stephenson begins a new mission at the City of Casey.
In September, the State Government revealed Strathbogie Shire Council would be appointed its fourth ratepayer-funded municipal monitor since 2021.
Other Victorian councils under administration have also been slapped with monitors following the return of councillors.
The government last week announced Strathbogie’s monitor is Ms Allan, who brings decades of experience on Victorian councils and other organisations.
She is currently a board member of Zoos Victoria and chairs its audit, finance risk and compliance committee, according to her LinkedIn profile.
Ms Allan is also a member of Loddon Shire Council’s independent audit and risk committee.
“From my perspective, a monitor is a good thing,” Strathbogie Shire Council interim CEO Tim Tamlin said.
“They provide assurance to the minister that we’re on the right track, but they also help intervene on any matters that we might need improvement opportunities for.”
Mr Tamlin met with Ms Allan ahead of the declaration of results last week, which Ms Allan attended.
Meanwhile, council’s freshly departed monitor-
turned-administrator, Peter Stephenson, is one of two municipal monitors to have been assigned to the City of Casey.
Casey has elected a new council after its councillors were dismissed in 2020 following allegations of corruption.
Last week, The Age reported that Casey candidate Jaz Masuta was “served with a fake legal letter that demanded he provide a faecal sample as part of a sham criminal investigation” following a campaign period which saw him warring with a rival candidate.
Mr Masuta and his rival were not successful in the election, but if the report is any reflection on the City of Casey, Mr Stephenson could be in for an interesting time.
PHOTO: Darren Chaitman
Mick Williams retires from Santa duties
By DARREN CHAITMAN
EUROA’S Mick Williams has retired from his volunteer role as the region’s most beloved and ubiquitous Santa, which he said he had performed for over 40 years.
Mr Williams’ journey in the red suit began one night at the Euroa “Middle” Hotel, possibly in the late 1970s or early 1980s, according to legend.
He was found there by his good friend, the late Mick Peel, who was in a tight spot.
“They’d arranged a Christmas break-up; they always had it at the ambulance station,” Mr Williams remembered.
“And he said, ‘we’re really stuck because we’ve got everything but Santa’.
“So, I went there, and I did it.
“I made the biggest blow I ever made the first night I ever done it, because I promised a kid that he was going to get a trampoline and he never got it.
“And he was so disappointed for the whole of the weekend.
“I learnt by that mistake, so after all those years I never promised anything, unless I knew that they were definitely going to get something.”
Kelvin View’s Di Mackrell saw this in action at Kelvin View’s annual Christmas Tree event, which she said Mr Williams had attended since the 1980s.
“Every child, if they wish to, will sit on his knee and he asks them what they want for Christmas, but he never promised them that he’ll bring it,” she said.
“He’ll say things like, ‘Oh, I’ve had a lot of orders for those this year, we’ll see what we can do.’”
Kelvin View, near Strathbogie, was just one of the Santa’s regular engagements.
Never accepting payment, he attended houses and Christmas events across the shire.
In Euroa, he attended the Carols by Candlelight, the hospital and aged care centre, posed for pictures with customers at the chemist, and could sometimes be seen on Binney Street travelling by horse and carriage. He timed appearances at Violet Town Market many years ago with a skydiver in a Santa suit.
“I was in the van already dressed; I’d come out and everybody thought it was me that’d come down in the parachute,” Mr Williams said.
The former road grader served as Santa while also serving as a councillor and mayor for many years.
Mr Williams said he did
it for the community and because he liked bringing joy to the children and their parents.
The most difficult part, he said, had been attending the Amaroo aged care centre and hospital in Euroa.
“There were quite a few people I knew [at Amaroo], and… I’d tell them, but they never had a clue who I was,” he remembered.
“Dear old Mrs Walters, she was 102 or 103, and I walked in there and she said, ‘isn’t it lovely to see Father Christmas?’
“It might sound silly, but I think it turned the clock back for a lot of people.
“And I’d go into the hospital and, because they weren’t able to go home for Christmas, they’d start to cry and I’d try and console them and
REAL SANTA HASN’T RETIRED
Young readers of this masthead need not be alarmed.
Mick Williams is not the “real” Santa, who will never retire, as our adult readers no doubt already know.
“Santa always rang me and asked me would I help him out to bring the presents for the children at Christmas,” Mr Williams explained.
have a chat with them.
“It was difficult… I used to go home very disappointed.”
The 83-year-old said at his age, the time was right for
him to retire, especially because scaling firetrucks had become increasingly difficult.
Mr Williams’ daughter, Michelle And rews, said:
“He’s certainly going to be missed… he’s had lots of calls already, people wanting to book him, of course.”
“I think he enjoyed the kids’ faces more than anything, and how much the kids got out of it,” she said.
Ms Andrews, who was 15 when her father began his December duties, recalled how the community had helped him.
The CFA and Burtons IGA donated a good portion of lollies for him to distribute.
Euroa CFA and other local fire brigades were an enormous help, transporting him by firetruck to many of his engagements.
Euroa Chamber of Commerce president Steph Swift said Mr Williams had been “very generous with his time” in attending Euroa’s twilight street party in recent years.
She still remembers Mr Williams as her childhood Santa.
“I think that’s what makes it so much more special for a lot of people who have either moved home or who have lived here their whole lives; the fact that he was our Santa, too,” Ms Swift said.
“Our children have had the opportunity to get a photo with a Santa that their parents also got a photo with.
“We will obviously miss him, but we absolutely understand, and we would just take the opportunity to thank him for providing so much of his time to us and to the events and community across all these years.”
She said the local drycleaners, before closing down, had cleaned her dad’s Santa suit free of charge.
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST - NOW OPEN
REF:
The Australian Government, represented by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, is inviting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) to sell water from water rights owners the Southern Connected Murray-Darling Basin who were not eligible for the Restoring Our Rivers: 2024 Selected Catchments Open Tender. This includes water right owners from within Irrigation Infrastructure Operator areas
The expressions of interest will close soon at 12 midday AEDT, 2 November 2024.
LIST OF CATCHMENTS:
NEW SOUTH WALES
Murray River
Murrumbidgee
Lower Darling
VICTORIA
BrokenKiewa
GoulburnMitta Mitta
CampaspeLoddon
Ovens & KingVictorian Murray
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
South Australian Murray
Owners of eligible water rights in the catchments listed above, including unregulated entitlements and section 51 licences, are invited to express their interest stating the proposed volume and price at which they want to sell their permanent water rights to the department
The decision to participate is completely voluntary. You must submit an EOI through this process if you want to be considered for any subsequent water purchasing in 2025 To read the Request for Expression of Interest and register your interest, please visit AusTender www.tenders.gov.au - and search for Restoring our Rivers.
MORE INFORMATION:
For more information on voluntary water purchasing, visit www.dcceew.gov.au/ watertender
ASSISTANCE:
For help with using AusTender, visit help. tenders.gov.au If you can’t access AusTender or have questions about the expression of interest process, please email watertenders@ dcceew.gov.au
WHO’S THAT ON THE ROOF?: Santa pictured on a Binney Street rooftop on The Euroa Gazette’s front page in December 2005.
HANGING UP HIS SUIT: Euroa’s Mick Williams has retired from his duties as Santa.
PHOTO: Darren Chaitman
Democrats didn’t pass muster
I: Foiled Aspirations
Though for the top job she was vying, Kamala (with giggling most trying), by meaningless talk caused electors to balk, thus her aspirations denying.
referendum failed. Sorry, but being invisible and having no voice is when newspapers no longer put handwritten letters in.
I’m sorry Ted More has retired from letter writing. Thankfully he still had that choice, it wasn’t decided for him.
Daily; Darren Chaitman from the Euroa Gazette; Darren Howe from the Bendigo Advertiser; Chris Earl from the Loddon Herald; Emma D’Agostino, Danielle Bonica and Josie Taylor from ABC Central Victoria; and Madeleine Stuchbery from the Weekly Times.
Despite having 60,000 people on the social housing waitlist, they seem more focused on demolishing homes than building them.
The Allan Labor Government spruik “free” kindergarten and forget to talk about the many millions of dollars being spent by local councils and ratepayers trying to deliver it.
Rainfall (Euroa Township)
SOME 0.6mm of rain fell at Euroa (Castle Creek at Telford Bridge) in the week ending 10am Monday, November 11, including 0.4mm on Monday, November 4 and 0.2mm on Thursday, November 7.
45-47 Railway Street, Euroa VIC 3666
Classifieds: 5723 0101 Ext 1 or classifieds@nemedia.com.au
General Advertising: 5795 3041 Ext 3
II: Trumped
The Democrats, with introspection, should know why they lost the election.
Decidedly ‘Trumped’, their standing has slumped, having failed to pass the inspection.
Craig
Penny, Terip Terip
Papers are failing letter writers
I WAS reading about Indigenous people complaining about having no voice and now being invisible because the
Sandra Morris, Seymour EDITOR’S NOTE: The Euroa Gazette still accepts handwritten letters to the editor.
Good journos question our pollies
IT was a pleasure to attend the Rural Press Club of Victoria’s 2024 Rural and Regional Journalism and Photography awards at the Bendigo Town Hall recently and I would like to congratulate the winners.
It was great to see journalists from across Northern Victoria acknowledged, including Allan Murphy from the Sunraysia
Media has a very important role in our society and in politics.
In politics it is to provide transparency in government, and currently we have a State Government that loves media headlines.
Credit where credit is due, over the last decade they have been really good at it.
It is keywords like “blitz”, “big” and “free” that still attract plenty of media coverage.
They recently spruiked a major road funding ‘blitz’ using the same media release from the past three years, and plenty of media outlets ran the story without question.
Their “Big” Housing Build is more like a big fail.
At the awards one journalist described the State Government as very secretive, and I certainly agree.
In the lead-up to state elections they’ve made big promises, but now they’re refusing to provide the details behind the failed Commonwealth Games and continue to progress the $200 billion Suburban Rail Loop without any details on where the money is coming from to pay for it.
Journalists have a very important role.
Thank you to every journalist who looks for the details beyond the catchy headlines. Gaelle Broad, Member for Northern Victoria
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
Editorial: 5795 3041 Ext 2 or editor@euroa-gazette.com.au www.euroagazette.com.au www.nemedia.com.au Member
Euroa Third Age Club update
By JOAN OSBOURNE
WHAT a wonderful Sunday afternoon has been held at the club featuring Greg Dudley and Rodney Grant at the “Sund’y By The Sevens” concert performing some of their own compositions and other well known and favourite songs for the lucky 57 people who attended.
A big thank you to the ladies who provided and served the delicious afternoon tea – your help is greatly appreciated. Club members are looking forward to next Saturday to celebrate the club’s 60th birthday.
Speechie
talk at Euroa Library
tomorrow
INLAND Rail says it has delivered an Australian first in its efforts to protect local wildlife during construction, installing 3D-printed nesting boxes on its Seymour-Avenel Road construction site to provide shelter for local creatures.
Inland Rail and its construction partner McConnell Dowell joined with University of Melbourne researchers to install 18 3D-printed artificial hollows on the site for wildlife that may have been disrupted by the nearby construction activity.
Native birds and mammals such as the crimson rosella, turquoise parrot, sugar glider and the brush-tailed phascogale could benefit from the initiative.
The purpose of the project
is to understand how local fauna interacts with 3D hollows compared to traditional nest boxes.
“It’s exciting to look at how we can better match the shapes and materials of natural hollows,” University of Melbourne researcher Dan Parker said.
“The hollows will be monitored by cameras that notify researchers in real time when animals are attracted to and inspecting the hollows.
“We will continue to monitor
the nesting boxes to determine the effectiveness and success of the designs.”
Cameras have already filmed creatures moving into the new homes.
The artificial hollows are made from 3D-printed wood, mycelium (the root-like structures of mushrooms) and hempcrete.
Ed Walker, a manager at Inland Rail, said: “Inland Rail is determined to minimise the impact it makes on local communities and wildlife.”
GV LIBRARIES is once again hosting several Speechie Library Talks this month, including a Euroa talk on Thursday, November 14 at 10.0am. Parents and carers are invited to come along, meet a speech pathologist, hear about how to support children’s language development at home, and ask any questions they might have.
Children are welcome at all of the sessions.
Speech pathologists will be read one of the winning books from the speech pathology book awards for 2024. For more information or to make a booking, phone 1300 374 765 or email euroa@ gvlibraries.com.au
GIMME
Construction on Arcadia hatchery begins
WORK has begun to triple the size of the Arcadia Native Fish Hatchery near Shepparton, backed by a $15 million state government investment.
Minister for Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos said work is underway to increase the number of production ponds from 33 to more than 100 – so the hatchery can produce up to 6 million Murray cod and golden perch each year for stocking into Victorian waters.
The government said the facility will play a key role in Victoria, stocking 10 million fish annually – more than every other Australian state and territory combined.
The new ponds will hold a massive 141 megalitres of water – the equivalent of 50 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
The project will be completed in 2025, providing enough time for the fish to get acclimatised to their new surroundings ahead of the following fishing season.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said: “The work happening at Arcadia is great for our region, supporting local jobs and keeping the Goulburn Valley and north-east Victoria at the heart of all things fishing.”
Government must act on organ donor report: Broad
MEMBER for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad has called on the State Government to act on a report to increase organ donation rates and allow Victorians to register on the Australian Organ Donor Register when applying for or renewing a driver license.
In March this year, the Legislative Assembly Legal and Social Issues Committee released a report about increasing the number of organ and tissue donors in Victoria.
Ms Broad said the report recommends introducing an option to register as an organ donor when renewing a driver’s license.
“Currently South Australia is the only state to have registration linked to driver’s licenses,” she said.
“They have 73 per cent of their population aged 16 and over registered on the Australian Organ Donor Register and consistently have one of the highest consent and donation rates in Australia.
“In New South Wales 41 per cent are registered, and Victoria is well below that at just 23 per cent.”
There are currently about 1800 Australians on a waitlist for organ transplant and around 14,000 more people on dialysis, many of whom would benefit from a kidney transplant.
FAFA’s festival of global fashions
By MAYETTE MARTIN
THE Filipino Australian & Friends Association (FAFA) proudly hosted its annual United Nations 2024 International Parade of Costumes Competition on Saturday, November 2.
This vibrant event was a remarkable celebration of cultural diversity, filled with colourful costumes, captivating performances, and a true sense of community.
The evening was alive with entertainment, featuring live music and singing by our local Dinna Aunzo, whose voice
DISTRICT NEWS
LONGWOOD LOOKOUT
By LONGWOOD ACTION GROUP
brought energy and rhythm to the celebration.
Bibiana Sto Domingo effortlessly broke the ice with her powerful performance while a beautiful duet by Dinna Aunzo and Leigh Johnson showcased Leigh’s talents and his dedication to supporting FAFA at every event.
The highlight of the night was the International Parade of Costumes, where participants proudly displayed stunning outfits representing cultures from around the world.
Each costume told a story of tradition and pride, and the dancers, dressed in vibrant at-
THE next meeting of the Longwood Action Group will be held at the Community Centre meeting room at 7pm on December 4.
This meeting will be preceded by the AGM.
All welcome.
Light up Longwood and Grinchmas will take place again in Longwood.
A working bee will be held Sunday, Novem-
tire, brought elegance and joy to the dance floor.
The venue and table settings were meticulously arranged, creating an atmosphere that was both elegant and inviting.
Our special guest speaker, Mariola Nebiu, captivated the audience with a powerful message on the beauty of cultural expression.
She spoke about how each stitch and design in traditional costumes carries history, values, and identity, reminding everyone of the importance of embracing and sharing our cultural roots.
ber 17 from 10am to put up lights around the town.
A BBQ lunch will be provided afterwards.
A sub-committee of the Longwood Action Group has been proposed, to assist with forming a plan for the Historical Signage project that the Action Group has received funding for.
The informative signs will be at various historical locations around Longwood.
The Longwood Primary School has one remaining date for the Pub Raffle at the White Hart Hotel, December 13.
Congratulations to the winners of the FAFA International Parade Costume Competition and to all the raffle winners. From the FAFA committees and members, we deeply appreciate your presence and contributions, and we look forward to seeing everyone again at Pasko sa Shepparton for a Filipino-style Christmas celebration on December 7 at the Philippine House, 45 Evergreen Way, Shepparton, from 10am onwards.
Join us for a day filled with festive cheer, family and community spirit as we celebrate the season together.
We need two volunteers for the raffle. Arrive 6pm and collect raffle book from the counter, sell for an hour before the raffle is drawn.
Pair up with a nice meal & bevvy to make an evening out.
Please let the school know if you or a group of you can help on one of these dates.
Please forward any information you would like included to longwoodlookout@gmail. com.
Inclusions are at the editor’s discretion.
FLAMENCO DANCE: Emma Nacion Prasad (left), Tricia Perez, Wilma Bernadette Mojica, Marissa Wyatt, Emily Venn, and Welda Bunny.
JUMP DANCE: Mayette Martin (left), Mel Torney, Janeth Pilla, Frecy Stevens, Olivia Bermudez, Vivs Natale and Dithche Lopez.
Working 17 continuous hours causes impairment equivalent to .05 blood alcohol concentration level.
Working long, multiple days in a row by yourself can be part of the job but consider the cost to you and your family.
Check in with yourself and others around you.
Know the signs of fatigue, visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/farmfatigue
It’s never you, until it is.
Organisers “thrilled” with second Strathbogie Cup Weekend Festival
By LISA DUGGAN
THE first weekend in November once again saw the small township of Strathbogie pumping with people and activities in the second running of the now annual Strathbogie “Cup Weekend” Festival.
Organisers said they were thrilled with the attendance and the success of the newly introduced market, held on the Sunday of the festival.
Saturday, November 2 saw the festival kick off with a well-attended croquet session and high tea luncheon held at the magnificent Fernside Croquet Courts.
Attendees were treated to instruction from local Dennis Taylor, before forming teams of four who unleashed their inner competitiveness and sense of fun.
The Euroa Ladies Croquet Team were in attendance in force as usual.
The addition of Pimm’s and Bubbes along with the scrumptious High Tea Luncheon catered by local business Café 56 saw all enjoy not only a day of fun but dining as well. Winners of the “Best Dressed
DRESSED TO IMPRESS:
In All Whites” awards were thrilled by the vouchers donated by Café 56.
After a brief break in activities the festival continued Saturday evening at the Strathbogie Memorial Hall with a Bush Dance featuring the Briagolong Bush Band. With over 130 in attendance, it sure proved a hit with all, especially the kids and families, who danced
the night away.
The Strathbogie Recreation Reserve was the focus of the Sunday events, with the inaugural Strathbogie Market running from 9.30am, featuring local businesses, hobbyists and individuals.
The organising committee are hoping to expand on this event next year as it contributes to the festival’s
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aims of promoting local business, our region and attracting much needed tourism.
No sooner had the market launched than a tennis tournament run by the re-invigorated Strathbogie Tennis Club got underway, which was well attended my both locals and visitors and attracted a spectator audience.
This year saw the children’s sports moved to the morning to avoid the heat as well as the addition of a Ball Handling Clinic and Strathbogie CFA engaging all the children. These sports are always a highlight of the festival and this year had in excess of 45 children participating.
The annual dinner and auction for community fun-
draising was held on Sunday evening and this year saw an Indian theme, catered for once again by a local business, Northern Rasoi. Guests were treated to a three-course, nine-dish Indian feast and there was certainly plenty to go around. Some guests even arrived in traditional Indian dress, which added to the atmosphere.
Euroa Health recognised Breast Cancer Awareness month in October, combining fun and education. Activities including resident and staff bra decorating competition, wearing pink each Wednesday and raising over $350.00 provided key opportunities for workplace connection, fun, learning and giving back to those affected by breast cancer.
The winner for the best bra competition was the #teameuroahealth accounts department, judged by guest speaker Maria Weatherill who visited GraniteHill and shared her breast cancer journey with staff. Maria said “what privilege to be asked by Euroa Health to share my breast cancer journey with staff and residents and to judge the bra competition at Granite Hill. Granite Hill is such a beautiful, welcoming place. The atmosphere is happy and there is a great sense of the dedication and care of all staff wanting every resident to enjoy a full life. And… the creativity displayed in the bra competition is outstanding!! Well done everyone! “
BUSH BAND: The Briagolong Bush Band
Deb and Donna Parsons. PHOTOS: David Jones
Colin Broughton auctioned off items on the night as well as a silent auction running over the course of the evening.
While financials are yet to be finalised, organisers believe over $6000 was raised for community needs and a further $450 for Strathbogie School. This could not have happened without the generous support of local businesses and individuals. As they have done for many years, the Strathbogie Golf Club hosted a Cup Day function on the Tuesday.
These magnificent horses were built by Euroa Men’s Shed and decorated by the Strathbogie Primary School Students.
Not only was a delicious lunch provided but also cup sweeps, putting competition and never to be forgotten the “fishing line” miniature horse races, taken out narrowly by Pat Fuge, defeating his wife, Jane Fuge.
This year the school also made beautiful horse head decorations.
Fashions on the filed saw Pennie Beard tie with Jane Fuge in the ladies, Wyne Kelly take out the Men’s, Deb and Rob McKie win the best
dressed couple and Donna and Deb take out the Best Dressed Alternative Couple. All in all it seems that the event was successful in its aims of bringing locals and visitors alike together to enjoy a range of fun and social activities, supporting local businesses by purchasing local, showcasing our region and it’s produce, raising funds for community groups
and drawing much needed tourist dollars into the region.
Organisers are already planning for next year’s event, always looking to improve with some key learnings taken out of this year’s festival.
If you are keen to be involved, please reach out to strathbogiecupweekendfestival@gmail.com.
In response to the power reliability issues over the 2023-24 summer, we created the Strathbogie Benalla Community Group (SBCG).
The group is made up of local representatives that meet regularly with AusNet to hear about what we’re doing to improve power reliability in the area and share community feedback. If you’re interested in sharing information or have questions: Email: asksbcg@gmail.com Call: 0455 314 204 Web: ausnetservices.com.au/sbcg
We’ll be at local events in November-December. To find out where visit ausnetservices.com.au/euroa-region
ausnet.com.au
BUSH BOOGIE: The crowd enjoying the bush dance.
DODGY BROS: Mal and Mick, The Dodgy Brothers
FESTIVAL LADIES: Deb McKie (left), Donna Parsons, Lisa Duggan, Deb Parsons, Jane Fuge, Caroline Bryksy, Tess Scanlan and Jeny Wardrop.
INDIAN FEAST: Jane Fuge and Sister Caroline Brysky.
WINNERS: Winners of the Jones Walker Perpetual Award, Eden Timperley from Strathbogie (left, 9) and Remi O’Dea from Castlemaine (6).
CROQUET COMP: Pat Fuge, Jane Fuge, Rosalie Wrest and Caroline Brysky.
FESTIVAL FUN: Deb and Rob McKie.
Sharing the Euroa Station Precinct design
We understand the community is passionate about how Inland Rail is delivered in Euroa and we’re pleased to be sharing the latest design which incorporates your feedback.
Latest update
In Euroa, we’re modifying the station precinct and replacing the Anderson Street bridge with a vehicle underpass to allow sufficient clearance for double-stacked freight trains.
With construction set to begin in 2025, we’re ready to share the latest design and seek your feedback on landscaping, urban design finishes, colour palettes and heritage interpretation options.
Our contractor John Holland will be available to talk with the community about the next steps and what to expect in Euroa.
How we’ve listened
Late last year when we shared the reference design, you told us safety, connectivity, visual amenity and improving the look and feel of the station precinct is important to you. We’ve incorporated that feedback into the design by:
• Reconfiguring the station underpass ramps to improve sight lines and safety
• Improving connectivity with a shared use underpass connecting Hinton and Handbury streets
• Modifying the Railway Street station carpark to maximise the forecourt area and opportunities for community use
Relocating the stormwater detention basins away from the station forecourt to improve usability and visual amenity.
Community benefits
• Upgrading the station precinct with improved pedestrian and cyclist connections
• Parking both sides of the station with more than 80 spaces
• New accessible station platform and pedestrian underpass with lifts, ramps and stairs
• Replacing Anderson Street bridge with a vehicle underpass
• Relocating the rail track to open up the station forecourt to Railway Street.
Euroa Concept Plan written submissions
The design has informed the Euroa Concept Plan, which is required to be approved by the Minister for Planning as part of Inland Rail’s project approvals.
Between 18 November and 15 December, you can view the Euroa Concept Plan and Report and provide your written feedback on our website.
A summary of written submissions and Inland Rail’s response will be provided to the Minister for Planning as part of the formal request for approval of the Euroa Concept Plan.
Get involved
Until December 15 you can view the designs and share your feedback by:
• Dropping into our shopfront at 46-50 Binney Street, Euroa. Tuesdays 10am-2pm, Thursday 14 and 21 November, 10am-2pm.
• Visiting inlandrail.info/euroadesign Completing the online survey which includes heritage interpretation options
• Talking to the team at the Euroa Farmer’s Market (16 November) and Euroa Street Party (13 December)
• Provide a written submission to the Euroa Concept Plan, 18 November-15 December, via our website
Can’t make these times? Book an appointment by phone on 1800 732 761 or email inlandrailvic@inlandrail.com.au
Watch the 3D fly-through
Scan the QR code for more information, to complete the survey, provide a written submission to the Concept Plan and watch the 3D fly-through.
Visualisation of the new station forecourt and entrance from Railway Street
Visualisation of the western side of the station featuring new platform and carpark
Visualisation of the Anderson Street underpass and network of pathways that better link Handbury and Hinton streets
Fire danger period begins
THE Fire Danger Period (FDP) will began on Monday for CFA’s North East region, including the Strathbogie Shire.
CFA District 23 acting assistant chief fire officer Steve Contessa said now is the time for residents to be aware of the conditions around them and to prepare their properties.
“While we’ve had some recent rain, we are concerned that this has caused significant growth in surrounding vegetation,” Mr Contessa said.
“The warmer weather and windy days will see this quickly dry out, significantly increasing the risk of fire to communities across the North East.”
District 24 assistant chief
fire officer Brett Myers said there is a great deal of fuel out there and they’re predicting a summer of grassfires.
“We’re asking people to keep an eye out on the VicEmergency App and CFA website, to be aware of the fire danger ratings and to know what their plan is should a fire event arise,” Mr Myres said.
“If you can take the time this week to finalise preparing your properties, we strongly suggest you do so, whether that is reducing vegetation around your property or clearing your gutters.”
ArborKnack have the knowledge & skills to help you to:
▶Reduce bushfire fuel sources
▶Minimise risk of damage & loss
▶Allow for easy evacuation & CFA access
We can assist you to be prepared this bushfire season, by offering services such as:
Across the rest of the state, a warmer-than-average spring with an uncertain rainfall outlook is expected.
While the fire risk in these areas is considered normal, it’s crucial not to be complacent; fires can still occur anytime and anywhere when temperatures rise, and vegetation dries out.
CFA’s 52,000 members are poised to respond and support communities this bushfire season, they’re urging people to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.
Residents in these municipalities in the North East of the state are asked to take this opportunity ahead of the FDP to clean up their properties and for landowners to conduct safe private burnoffs where possible.
Those conducting burn-offs must notify authorities online at the Fire Permits Victoria website (www.firepermits.vic. gov.au), or by calling Triple Zero Victoria on 1800 668 511.
By registering your burn-off online, you allow emergency call takers to allocate more of their time taking calls from people who need emergency assistance immediately.
No burning off is permitted during the FDP without a
‘permit to burn’, which can be applied for through the Fire Permits Victoria website. There are very strict conditions attached to these permits and the liability sits with the permit holder to ensure they always act safely.
FIRE DANGER PERIOD
INFORMATION
A written permit is required to burn off grass, undergrowth, weeds or other vegetation during the FDP.
You can apply for a permit at firepermits.vic.gov.au and it can also be issued by the municipal fire prevention
fficer or the CFA district office.
o
Lighting fires in the open without a permit can bring a penalty of more than $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment.
For a full list of conditions, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/can.
Farmers can find legal guidelines and practical advice at cfa.vic.gov.au/farms.
More information about FDPs is available online at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ firedangerperiod.
To find out what you can and can’t do during FDP, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/can or call VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.
How Longwood residents survived 1965 tragedy
By JANE RANKEN, with Bill and Dick Ranken, Avenel
This personal account remembering the 1965 Longwood bushfire tragedy was first published by The Euroa Gazette in January 2015.
It has been reprinted as the 60th anniversary of the tragedy approaches.
IWILL never forget our Black Sunday, January 17, 1965, when we lost everything but the house in the Longwood fire – the cottage, all the sheds and all the sheep and very nearly lost two members of our family –my brother and myself.
I had just left school and Dad was nervous about the fire threat that summer after a very good spring and grass so high you could hardly see the sheep.
There were fewer landholders in the hills area then but they were all extremely fire-conscious and all had fire fighting units of some sort.
We had two ex-Army ‘blitzes’ (one for spares) and two utes all with tanks and pumps.
We had a good grazed firebreak around the house, a dam nearby, a large green garden and sprinklers on the roof of our weatherboard house.
All landholders appreciated that they had to work together and look after themselves with their own units.
The day started out as a normal hot summer’s day with a bit of a north wind –more like a strong breeze.
As was usual, Dad and Mum had us kids on ‘smoke watch’ which meant going up the hill behind the house from about 11am onwards to look for smoke.
Like other days that January, the day had been declared a Total Fire Ban day and it turned out to be a shocker with the temperature hitting 108 degrees (42 degrees Celsius) and a north wind speed of up to 50mph (80kph).
But in the early part of the morning there was almost no indication of how bad it
would become in just a few hours.
After midday we had a call to say that there was a fire near Longwood on the flat country and Dad went to see where it was from a high point near what is now Elgo Winery.
In those days of party likes the local communications system was better than it is now.
The post master/mistress knew everybody and families on a party line could call each other and all listen in to the conversations.
It’s ironic that we are now advised to set up communication mobile phone ‘trees’ when in the days of the party line, we had an automatic one!
Dad came back and told my brother (who was 18 months younger) and I to get in the ute and be dropped off to bring some sheep down to the yards at the woolshed – a distance of about 2.5km and dropping down 160m.
He said, with a bit of luck, the firefront will miss us and we can may be able to hold it on Upton Road.
He would get on the party line to mobilize the neighbours and my youngest brother, aged nine, would stay with Mum at the house.
So off we went, without sheep dogs and not wearing any protective clothing, to muster 1500 or so valuable Merino ewes on foot.
We didn’t think about the risk – just get the sheep down and quickly – and we were both fit country kids and damn good runners.
In those days sheep and wool prices were very good after the Korean War wool boom and Dad had developed a wonderful line of breeding ewes.
Having served with the commandoes in Timor under circumstances he never talked about he had put the war behind him and threw all his energies into developing the farm and the flock he had developed over 25 years was his pride and joy.
My brother and I separated as we had to bring the sheep from near Tarcombe Road down either side of a heavily
timbered gorge (Discovery Creek).
As I rounded up the sheep, running around rocks and jumping rabbit holes, I realised the smoke was suddenly becoming much denser and the fire much closer.
What I didn’t know was that the fire had come up Oak Valley Road into the steep gorge area near what is now the Elgo wind turbine and accelerated into what must have been fire storm generating its own windstorm.
On top of that there had been a wind change to the north east which meant that the flank had now become the front and was heading our way.
It was probably this wind change that helped to save the Longwood township.
About halfway down to the yards, the full impact hit and I will never forget having to hold on to rocks and stumps at times to keep going down in the windstorm.
I don’t recall the radiant heat – it was just bloody hot – but I will never forget the strength of the wind and the noise which, as others who have been in similar situations can confirm, must be like standing behind a 747 jumbo on take-off
I couldn’t see the sheep ahead of me but kept going until the smoke cleared a bit as I battled my way down the hill.
It was then obvious that I wasn’t going to get them to the yards so I moved them
towards two green swampy areas some distance away which was even further from the house.
Hoping that they would stay there with some chance of surviving (they didn’t stay and were all burnt), I then realised I’d have a job to do to get back to the house which was about a kilometre away towards the front of the fire.
However, I just made it most likely because the fire had slowed down coming down the steep hill behind the house.
I found a very frantic but relieved Mum, Dad and younger brother protecting the house.
My brother then appeared so we set to.
I managed to get the terrified horses into a safe area in the garden.
The fire was upon us and we stood awestruck, in the safety of the lush garden and with the roof sprinklers having wetted down the gutters and the surrounds, as the cottage next door quite literally exploded into flames.
My brother recalls the same image of a virtual fire ball rolling down the hill and consuming the cottage 100m from us.
My younger brother recalls the flow from the hose he was holding stopping because it had melted between him and the tap.
The fire passed over us and only then did I realize that it had been a bit of a
‘close shave’ for the two of us musterers.
Our day finished with vivid spectacle of Kong Meng Hill ablaze like a huge bon fire.
We had lost virtually all the 6000 treasured sheep, the woolshed and all other farm buildings, machinery, the cottage and all 2700 acres in a bit over 30 minutes.
As we now know Mum and Dad might well have lost their only daughter and eldest son.
There is no way we could have survived if we had been 15 minutes later, if we had been going uphill or if we had twisted an ankle – a close shave indeed.
After a few days and in order to protect us from the awful business of seeing and shooting burnt sheep, Mum and Dad decided we kids should go to relatives at Point Lonsdale for a while.
Horrific as it was for us we later realised what a tragedy that fire was.
Two mothers and five children dead – all from the same family group – as they were caught in their car.
Hundreds of families affected, dozens of homes lost, thousands of livestock burnt.
Dad was the President of the Shire of Seymour and so he not only had his own losses to deal with but threw himself into organizing both local businesses and government relief for burnt out farmers.
As is the case in so many
serious fires, Dad never really recovered from that fire.
While the house had been saved and the farm buildings and fences had been mostly covered by insurance, the loss of his sheep was too much to bear.
On top of this wool prices collapsed and he tried to meet the challenge by buying and running large numbers of dry sheep/
However he eventually had to take the hard decision to sell the property and home they had worked so hard on to leave to us kids. We then moved to another farm and rented while they built another home as us kids all went our separate ways. So with the wisdom of hindsight and with the fire behavior knowledge that I now have, may I offer the following advice to those who have never experienced a serious grass fire and windstorm.
A grassfire can quickly kill you with its instantaneous radiant heat – remember the 17 lives lost on the Geelong Road in the 1969 Lara grass fire.
Never underestimate how fast and frightening they can be – it came up Oak Valley Road faster than one could drive on that road and in the smoke that was way ahead of the fire front.
Know about fire behavior, attend CFA briefings, understand the terrible consequences of the inevitable wind changes, the impact of radiant heat, fire behavior on uphill slopes and so on.
Be prepared – what are you going to get done in the 15 minutes before it can be upon you.
You cannot be overprepared – look after yourself – don’t expect a fire truck to save you. What if you are caught in a vehicle – do you have the right clothes, a wool blanket, water, phone and most importantly strong wire cutters.
Never leave in a panic –it’s often the short cut to the cemetery.
60 YEARS ON: The Euroa Gazette reported on the disaster in 1965.
Church Services
ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sunday 17th November
Holy Eucharist
8am St Andrews Longwood
9.15am St Paul’s Euroa
Wednesday 20th November
Holy Eucharist
10am St Paul’s Euroa Enq: 5704 0330
www.anglicaneuroa.org.au
All welcome
BAPTIST CHURCH
31 Kennedy Street, Euroa
Sunday November 17th, 10am
Tuesday: 9.30am Prayer, 10.30am Bible Study.
Listen to Vision Radio 88.4 FM
Enq: Pastor Rob Archer 0408 513 566
CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST
Services at Kelvin View Hall
Sunday November 17th
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
Indi MP awaiting more detail on social media ban
By CHLOE JAENICKE
INDI federal Independent MP
Helen Haines says she has not decided whether to support a social media ban for people under 16, while encouraging locals to contact her with their opinions.
Speaking after federal cabinet on Friday backed introducing the proposed legislation, Dr Haines told North East Media she is awaiting more detail from the government before making up her mind.
She said she understands that social media can cause harm to young people, but she also recognises it can be used as a platform for connection.
“I understand the deep concern of many about the effects of social media, which can sometimes have devastating consequences, particularly for young people,” Dr Haines said.
“I also recognise that for many people, social media is an important way that they foster and maintain connection.
“There are many suggestions about how to respond to the dangers of social media, of which a ban is one.”
Dr Haines said she encouraged Indi residents with opinions on the matter to contact her office.
“People of all ages and backgrounds across Indi have been sharing their different perspectives with me in re-
cent months,” she said.
“I encourage parents, young people, teachers, healthcare workers and others who have an active interest in this issue to contact my office with their views.”
While the government is
working on details of the proposed legislation, it will seek to ban social media from all people under the age of 16, regardless of parental consent.
The ban will apply to TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat and X, and
YouTube is likely to be banned as well.
The government is hoping the social media platforms will take the reasonable steps to block people under 16 from accessing their sites.
To help plan how land will be used in the future, Council is developing a Rural Residential and Land Use Strategy and Urban Growth Strategy.
We want to hear your thoughts on potential issues and opportunities that could impact the future use of land in the Shire. This is the start of the conversation.
From 11 November to 13 December
fill out the online survey or come along to one of our drop-in sessions:
Thursday 21 November 2pm–6pm Euroa Conference room, Euroa
Wednesday 27 November 2pm–6pm Avenel Memorial Hall, Avenel Thursday 28 November 2pm–6pm Violet Town Community Centre, Violet Town
Tuesday 3 December 2pm–6pm Nagambie Senior Citizens Centre, Nagambie
Wednesday 4 December 2pm–6pm Longwood Community Centre, Longwood
Monday 9 December 2pm–6pm Strathbogie Memorial Hall, Strathbogie
We’re looking for up to 30 community members (18 years and older) to join a Community Panel (the Panel) in February 2025:
•The Panel will look at the current evidence including the issues and opportunities and develop recommendations to help create the Rural Residential and Land Use Strategy and Urban Growth Strategy.
•To cover any costs and thank you for your time, you’ll receive a $100 gift card after the last session.
EUROA & DISTRICT
November 16
Rotary Club of Euroa presents Wendy Stapleton and Wilber Wilde & Friends 6.30-11.30pm November 16 at Euroa Memorial Oval. Book at https://www.trybooking.com/CUCVG 2 -23
Tablelands Community Centre 27 Nolans Rd Ruffy – ARTBOX viewings Bushwood Creations. Whittling workshops –bookings essential at http://www.trybooking.com/CUZVP Materials & Tea/coffee provided, BYO lunch. Enq: Fiona 0427 690 970
December 13
Twilight Christmas Shop Local Event. Friday 13th, 5.30pm -9pm. Binney St will be transformed into a vibrant Christmas Market. Shops open to late, market stalls, live music, food stalls, kids activities and appearance from Santa. 20
Carols by Candlelight Euroa 7.30 pm Fri 20th Dec 2024 Seven Creeks Park Euroa.
Register your function in Special Events Diary at a cost of $9.90 per listing which lasts up to 12 months Call the Gazette on 5795 3041 or email Lorraine at lmillard@nemedia.com.au
ON THE FENCE: Indi MP, Helen Haines, said she is awaiting more
New welcome signs installed in Avenel
THREE new welcome signs and three wayfinding signs have been installed in Avenel.
Strathbogie Shire Council said the design was chosen by the community, selecting their favourite image featuring their iconic heritage bridge.
Council engagement staff gathered input from the the Avenel community through the Share Strathbogie online platform, the monthly Avenel market and the Community Hub.
Residents chose from a variety of designs, which included stylised images of agriculture and vineyards, council said.
The welcome signs are part of Stage 2 of Avenel’s streetscape upgrade, following the completion of Stage 1, which introduced native shrubs and boulders along Queen Street.
The streetscape program was funded by the Victorian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program.
TO plan for how land will be used in the future, Strathbogie Shire Council is developing a Rural Residential and Land Use Strategy and Urban Growth Strategy. Council wants to hear your thoughts on potential issues and opportunities that could impact the future use of land in the shire.
From November 11 to December 13, fill out the online survey or come along to one of the drop-in sessions:
Thursday 21 November 2pm-6pm | Euroa Conference room, Euroa
Wednesday 27 November 2pm-6pm | Avenel Memorial Hall, Avenel
Thursday 28 November 2pm-6pm | Violet Town Community Centre, Violet Town
Tuesday 3 December 2pm-6pm | Nagambie Senior Citizens Centre, Nagambie
Wednesday 4 December 2pm-6pm | Longwood Community Centre, Longwood
Monday 9 December 2pm-6pm | Strathbogie Memorial Hall, Strathbogie
Council is also looking for up to 30 community members (18 years and older) to join a Community Panel in February.
The panel will develop recommendations for the strategy.
To cover any costs and to thank residents for their time, participants will receive a $100 gift card after the last session.
For more details, the survey and to join the Community Panel visit council’s online engagement hub at https:// share.strathbogie.vic.gov.au from November 11.
IT’S A SIGN: One of the new welcome signs installed in Avenel.
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RAWLINGS, Cassie Josephine. 13.6.2006-2.11.2024
Adored daughter of Jason and Julianne Loved sister of Zach “At Peace Never forgotten Forever 18”
BY EMAIL BY PHONE 5723 0101
FUNERALS
VIDLER
VIDLER (Asquith) Sylvia Lynette. Loved and loving sister to Val. Loved Auntie of Lauren, Cherie and Kate and families. Remembered with love.
DEATH NOTICES
VIDLER (nee Asquith), Sylvia Lynette.
Born on July 28, 1947
Passed away October 30, 2024
Loving wife to Kevin (dec), Mother to Russell, Vincent, Ann and Troy.
Loved by in-laws Melissa, Trudi, Carly, Reece and Brenton.
Sister to Val and Eddie (dec), Sister-In-Law to Lesley, Paul, Peter, Joy, Jim (dec), Frank (dec) and Shirley (dec).
As a well-loved member of the Vidler family, we are saddened to announce the passing of Sylvia at the Northern Hospital, Epping.
A woman who had the utmost respect, care and love from all that had the privilege to know her. She will be dearly missed by our family and friends alike.
Nan to 10 Grandchildren and 3 Great Grandchildren – Brendan, Jade, Tayler, Nick, Joe, Abigail, Owen, Blake, Kevin, Holly, Saffira, Tristan and Braxton.
RAWLINGS A Celebration for the life of Miss Cassie Josephine Rawlings will be held at the Longwood Community Centre & Recreation Reserve. Down Street, Longwood. Saturday, November 16, Commencing at 11am Followed by Interment at the Euroa Lawn Cemetery Livestream link on our website “Please wear white socks”
45-47 Railway Street, Euroa, Victoria 3666
The funeral of Mrs Sylvia Lynette Vidler will be held at the Euroa Lawn Cemetery, Faithfuls Creek Road, Euroa on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 commencing at 11am.
A video recording of the service will be available on the N J Todd website from 4pm on Wednesday.
N.J. TODD
Member AFDA BENALLA (03) 5762 2461 EUROA
N J Todd Funeral Directors
Member AFDA
PUBLIC NOTICES FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Servicing Euroa & District since 1937
Damien Feehan
Justin Feehan
Euroa Junior Football Netball Club AGM
Your Local Choice Kyabram & District Funerals 119 Albion Street Kyabram Phone 03 58521061 www. kyabramfunerals. com.au FOR
November 27, 7pm at the George Hunter Room Memorial Oval.
Rider-mower, self drive, mow it yourself 38” Husqvarna Call John 0427 952 683 or 5795 2683 ISUZU Tipper for sale, 2016 model, 102,000km, 6.5 gvm, very good condition, reg (XV12DL),$65,000 including GST. Ph 0428 356 463.
Model, an excellent example and great fun. Made in UK with only 51,000 km travelled. Sold with RWC only $13,000 VIN: SARRDWBGB1D525375 Call
WANTED! PopTop caravan or an aluminium boat 75 horsepower or higher with steering wheel. Ph 0402 113 112.
Euroa Lawn soars to the top of Section One
By CAROLINE KEENAN
EUROA Lawn has pulled clear at the top of the table in section one of the Benalla and District Tennis Association after accounting for Gardens Gold on Saturday.
The women in Marja Wondergem, Rowena Ellis and Marlene Hanrahan sailed through their sets undefeated while the men had a tougher time of it.
Lawn also claimed all the mixed sets to finish with six sets in hand to Gardens’ three.
The final score was Gardens Gold 43 to Euroa Lawn 61.
To the Goulburn Murray Lawn Tennis Association, and both Euroa clubs saluted in section three.
Euroa Green was untroubled by Nathalia and went on to drop just one set for the day.
Bob Furphy was impressive by winning his singles match and conceding just five games for the afternoon.
The final score was Euroa Green 75 to Nathalia 39. And Euroa Red took on ladder leader in the Kyabram Redbacks and showed them that at home on our lawn, the Reds take some beating.
ON THE ATTACK: Henry Williamson takes a swing, looking to make an impact in the Friday night under 12s game.
LOUD APPEAL: Tom Goss appeals passionately, convinced he’s got the wicket.
PHOTOS: Dale Mann
Scott Watson and Jake Hill got the job done in the singles matches and the girls in Faye Mollison, Megan O’Bree, Kelly Hill and Danielle Scotis (on debut) cleaned up in the doubles and mixed matches.
The final score was Euroa Red 92 to Kyabram 60.
And in section two of the competition, Euroa Blue had a tight tussle with the Cobram Crocs but emerged victorious with nine games in hand.
An even contribution from all players was required to get the job done and the team is consolidating as a genuine finals contender
come the business end of the season. The final score was Euroa Blue 67 to Cobram 58.
And in the open competition of GM2, the juggernaut which was Euroa White came unstuck at the hands of KPOS Commandos.
Jacob Tarran played a great couple of sets adding both of his to the side’s total of four winning sets for the afternoon.
The result came down to the wire but the home side proved just a bit too strong on the day.
The final score was Kialla 61 to Euroa 52.
By DAN GODSMARK
EUROA’S own Tamara
Smith is forging an impressive path in the AFLW with the Hawthorn Hawks, and she’s possibly on track to reach her first AFLW Grand Final. Her experience in highstakes games goes back to her junior years, and in 2021 she played in the VFLW Grand Final with Geelong. These experiences, she says, help ease the nerves but remind her that anything can happen on game day.
After a narrow lose to Brisbane Lions in the first final, who have reached five grand finals in seven seasons. Lions doesn’t intimidate Tamara and her team. “We respect them, but to be the best, you have to beat the best,” she shares.
Hawks now have to play the inform Port Adelaide team this Saturday night who smashed the Tigers by 24 points.
A FULL strength Euroa side made a commanding start to their 45-over campaign, travelling to Vibert Reserve on Friday evening to face Karramomus.
Euroa won the toss and wasted no time in choosing to bat first, with conditions perfect for an aggressive approach and plenty of confidence to play their shots.
The Euroa batsmen took full advantage, posting an impressive
A positive team culture has been pivotal for Tamara, especially her close bond with teammate Mattea Breed and a supportive environment fostered within the Hawks.
“We play for each other and the club, not for ourselves,” she says, crediting this mindset to the sense of camaraderie.
New coach Daniel Webster has also played a significant role, bringing passion and knowledge to help players embrace and master the game plan, making it easier to perform with confidence on game day.
EUROA DOMINATES IN 45-OVER FORMAT AGAINST KARRAMOMUS
total of 8/368 after the allotted 45 overs.
It was a true team effort, with several key contributions making it a run feast for the visitors.
Edison Waghorn led the charge with a brilliant 53 off just 44 balls, while Ethan Saxon powered through to 81 from 51 balls, providing the backbone of Euroa’s innings.
Jack Walters was also in fine
form, contributing 65 off 41 balls.
Tayte Hoefchen showcased his consistency with a solid 62 off 66 balls, continuing the momentum through the middle of the innings.
A special mention goes to Billy Wilson, who made his debut for the side, and Ethan Saxon, who maintained a steady scoring rate of just over eight runs per over, keeping the scoreboard ticking at a rapid pace throughout.
Thanks to these dominant individual performances, Euroa’s total of 368 runs has put them in a commanding position heading into next week’s play.
With the batsmen firing on all cylinders, the team will be confident of securing a positive result when play resumes.
SCOREBOARD: Euroa (8/368 - E.Saxon 81*, J.Walters 65*, T.Hoefchen 62*).
Recently signing a twoyear contract extension with Hawthorn, Tamara is thrilled by the club’s faith in her, setting her sights on continued improvement.
Outside of football, she’s pursuing a Master’s in Teaching at Deakin, balancing training with a demanding study schedule and earlymorning gym sessions.
Her family remains her biggest support system, cheering her on from the sidelines and always ready with feedback.
Her advice for aspiring athletes from small towns?
“Back yourself in.
It might take time, but perseverance pays off.”
For Tamara Smith, that persistence has set her on an exciting journey in the AFLW, with plenty more to come.
Kate Surman. -AAP Image Hawk’s star Tamara Smith prepares for a semi final showdown
BALANCED ATTACK: Scott Watson winds up with a solid forehand during Euroa Red’s victory over Kyabram.
BACK HANDED: Rod Andrews slaps the ball back. PHOTOS: Dale Mann
Euroa Bowls Club’s division four dominates Seymour
EUROA BOWLS CLUB
By GREG BLATCHFORD
THERE wasn’t any Midweek Pennant this week due to the Melbourne Cup but we did have 21 bowlers plus some visitors attend our Cup Day Function.
As always John Groat conducted his sweeps and we had a bevy of beauties parade for the best hat with Beth Alston (the Lady in Red) being declared the winner.
We also had two sides participate in Avenel’s two bowl triples Cup Day tournament with the combination of Ken Sutcliffe, Jeremy Boruch and Anne Sutcliffe finishing in second place with two wins and a draw.
All bowlers enjoyed a magnificent lunch and we congratulate and thank Marion and her team on what was a great day.
Round four of the Midweek Competition sees Division one off to Shepp Park, Division four at home to Shepp Park with Division five heading to East Shepp.
In Weekend Pennant Division one came up against strong Shepp Golf combination, Division four hosted Seymour and Division six both travelled to Alexandra.
Results as follows:
Division one versus Shepp Golf – 56 to 93 and 0 points.
Shane Drysdale, Bill Sargood, Bill Jennings and John Groat 14-23.
Ken Sutcliffe, Marc Stevens, Tony Thomson and David Cerini 15-25.
Tony Kingma, Jeremy Boruch, Barry Hatchman and Keith Kruse 12-27.
Peter Naughton, Kev Milner, Sam Barkly and Margaretha Cerini 15-18.
Division four versus Seymour – 89 to 61 and 16 points.
Jim Perry, Brian Bamford, Charmaine Reid and Ross
Withers 22-11.
Doug Maconochie, Greg Blatchford, Brian Diffey and Buffy McFarlane 17-22.
Richard Noble, Lindsay Cocking, Ray Day and Noel Moon 20-16.
Alex Grant, David Clarke, Lance Carracher and Anne Sutcliffe 30-12.
Division 6 versus Alexandra – 70 - 31 and 16 points.
James Dunn, Ken Drysdale, Rolly Simpson and Janneke Kruger 31-08.
Neville Harris, Marg Goode, Peta Webster and Mark Jervies 16-13.
Tim Scarlett, Ian South, George Andrews and Beth Alston 23-10.
This week Janneke Kruger played her first pennant match for the club – it is pleasing to be able to welcome new (and younger) members and we hope to welcome more in the future.
We also welcomed back David Clarke following an extended hibernation.
Next week Division one host ladder leaders Tallyga-
roopna, Division four travel to Alexandra and Division six take on Shepp Park at home.
Ladder Positions at the conclusion of four rounds are:
Division 1 – 7th with 22 points.
Division 4 – 1st with 60 points.
Division 6 – 4th with 33 points.
The latest Nifty 50 winners are Don Steers, Billy Sargood (again) and Mark Jervies.
This Friday Night we are having a BBQ and the Mighty Meat Raffle makes a return so make sure you get down to the club and be part of the fun.
All the best and bowl well.
AVENEL BOWLS CLUB
By KATE DONOVAN
AVENEL Bowls Club held its tournament on Melbourne Cup Day.
The weather was picture perfect, and the bowls hotly contested.
Winners on the day were
Carla Miles, Paul Ledger and Col Power from Shepparton Golf Bowls Club.
Runners Up from Euroa Bowls Club were Ken Sutcliffe, Anne Sutcliffe and Jeremy Boruch.
Many thanks to the sponsors of the day – Brave Goose Vineyard, Moama Bowls Club and Tahbilk wines.
Their generosity made the day possible.
WEEKEND PENNANT DIVISION THREE
Avenel travelled to Shepparton Park where the hosts prevailed with a 14 – 85 to 4 – 77 win.
Howard Geldard, Kate Donovan, James Wall, Spud Furletti (s) won fourteen of the twenty-one ends for a convincing win, 23 – 13.
Pam Pedder, Donna Rowley, Josh McDonald, Jake Wall (s) started strongly scoring a six and a five in the first five ends.
The opposition chipped away at the deficit however Avenel were too good in the end to win 26 – 23.
Nyoli Bell, Jenny Furletti, Glen Bell, Dennis McGregor (s) were in chase mode all game but could not catch a determined Shepparton Golf team that won 20 – 12.
In a game of two halves, Fay Hateley, Graham Lewis, Grace Kenworthy, Noel Slater (s) were very competitive up to the break, then the game got away from them in the second half to go down 29 – 16.
The next game for Avenel is at home against Kyabram.
WEEKEND PENNANT DIVISION SEVEN
Avenel played at home against Eildon and the visitors went home with full points 14 - 43 to 0 – 30.
Walter Pedder, Graeme Toy, Marion Gittus, Ross Sinclair (s) won their share of ends but struggled to get multiple winning shots up.
Eildon on the other hand did just that to win the game 22 – 11.
Kyle Pedder, Mark Morse, Ron Harrison, Charlie Kemp (s) had a close game which
they almost stole with a five on the second last end. However, Eildon prevailed to win by two, 21 – 19.
Next week Avenel are on the road to play Kyabram.
VIOLET TOWN BOWLS CLUB
By LEANNE RUSSELL-JONES
Midweek Pennant – We enjoyed a break on a lovely Cup.
Weekend Pennant – we travelled to Shepparton Park with a full but slightly depleted side again.
We played undercover as Parkers also hosted Avenel and Dookie.
The carpet was a challenge for new bowler Neil but he did really well.
We won 14-2, 69-62.
G Crawford (S), N Higgins (L), T Down, M O’Keefe def L Mawson 22-20 in a tight game all the way through, K Byrne, L Russell-Jones B Fairweather, K Stanger lt W Brown 21-22 in another tight game, we played well but opposition skip Bill kept converting our good heads, D Underwood, W Wood, L Heckenberg, T Heckenberg def W Wheeler 26-20, and scored an eight early.
AROUND THE CLUB
Mick O’Keefe and Tim Heckenberg played against Ken Byrne and Travis Wellington in the Club Pairs Final on Sunday November 10, and Ken and Travis won convincingly 23-11, with just a small crowd to cheer them on.
Our second week of our Jack Attack comp was well supported again, it is always great to watch and listen to everyone both before and during the games. All are welcome to join us from 6 pm Thursdays until 28/11.
Join in on the raffles, get a sausage in bread or an ice cream and the bar is open with lots to choose from.
Tony Rohrlach and Scott shoot up the leaderboard
By JOHN KING
A STUNNING Spring Day greeted competitors at the Euroa Clay Target Club’s November shoot on Sunday.
With hardly a cloud in the sky, the perfect conditions allowed shooters to register impressive scores and enjoy the day to its fullest.
Scott Towers led the way in the Traditional Side by Side Trophy event, showcasing his skill with his trusty double-barrel shotgun to score 19/20, claiming first place in A Grade.
Meanwhile, Tony Rohrlach had an outstanding performance in the 90-target Euroa Medley Championship, finishing with a score of 141/150,
narrowly edging out Colbinabbin President Lee Fitzgerald, who scored 140/150.
Rohrlach’s consistent shooting was key to his victory, as he outperformed a competitive field.
Notably, Junior shooter Owen Spencer proved his mettle in the C Grade, winning with a strong score of 129/150, a remarkable achievement considering he was up against more experienced shooters. His performance was a testament to his talent and the bright future ahead of him in the sport.
The shoot saw five squads of competitors, all of whom enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and camaraderie that
the Euroa Clay Target Club is known for.
The event provided an excellent way to spend a beautiful Sunday while enjoying some friendly competition.
1st
Grade: Tony Rohr-
lach (Euroa) – 15/20.
2nd AA Grade: Lee Fitzgerald (Colbinabbin) –14/20.
2nd A Grade: Steve Murphy (St James) – 16/20.
1st B Grade: Peter McKendrick (Euroa) – 12/20.
2nd B Grade: Lee Fitzpatrick (Euroa) – 8/20.
1st C Grade: Liam Tonks (Euroa) – 18/20.
2nd C Grade: Ben Asquith (Euroa) – 16/20. 90t Euroa Medley Championship.
1st O/A and AA Grade: Tony Rohrlach (Euroa) –141/150.
2nd AA Grade: Lee Fitzgerald (Colbinabbin) –140/150.
1st A Grade: Scott Towers
(Euroa) – 139/150.
2nd A Grade: John King (Euroa) – 137/150.
1st B Grade: Lee Fitzpatrick (Euroa) – 137/150.
2nd B Grade: Jim Foulkes (Euroa) – 126/150.
1st C Grade: Owen Spencer (Euroa) – 129/150.
2nd C Grade: Liam Tonks (Euroa) – 128/150. The club’s Annual Christmas Shoot is set for Sunday, December 8, featuring four exciting events: a Tower Point Score, a Double Barrel Ham Event, a Christmas Hamper Handicap, and a Deauville Doubles Turkey Shoot. The first event kicks off at 10:30 am, and all are welcome to participate in the festive fun.
MEDLEY CHAMPION: Tony Rohrlach proudly receives his Medley Championship sash from President Laurie.
CHAMPIONSHIP VICTORY: Carla Miles, Paul Ledger, and Col Power from Shepparton Golf Bowls Club celebrate their win at the Avenel Tournament.
PAIR WINNERS: Ken Byrne and Travis Wellington celebrate their victory in the Club Pairs Final at Violet Town Bowls Club.
PHOTOS: Dale Mann
Full Results: 20t Side by Side Trophy Event.
1st A Grade: Scott Towers (Euroa) – 19/20.
AA
Avenel Golfers shine at Mallacoota
EUROA LADIES GOLF
By DEBRA COX
LAST Wednesday only seven ladies turned up and five played 18 holes and two opted for nine.
Perhaps most were recovering from the Melbourne Cup the previous day.
Nevertheless, Freda Edwards put on a clinic and won the day with 41 points.
A brilliant round with Birdies and Pars galore.
Although there was no official nine-hole comp, Roz Doxey came through with a lovely 19 points.
Nearest the Pins. Eighth: Freda Edwards, 12 and 18 to the Club.
Drive and Pitch. Fifth: Michelle Thomson and 15 to Gail Allen.
Saturday November 9 was Stroke and the first round of the Ladies Championship generously sponsored by Josh Bell Plumbing.
Eighteen women played in near perfect weather conditions and some very impressive scores were lodged although we had one outstanding player, possibly setting a course record for the Ladies.
Gail Allen romped home with an amazing score of nett 64, (77 off the stick) to win Division 1/2.
I am at a loss for words as to how good this result is and all I can say is, WOW.
Congratulations Gail, you work hard and you deserve this win.
This puts Gail in a good position for the remaining two rounds although hot on her heels is Emily Flavel with nett 67 (80 off the stick).
Marion McMartin carded nett 69, a great score.
On a normal day you would expect a score under 70 would be a winner, however this is the Championships and all stops are pulled out.
Erica Mercer and Dot Rule both had nett 71.
Least putts to Gail Allen with 24.
Nearest the Pins. Eighth: Dot Rule, 12th: Grace Eddy and 18th to Dot Rule.
Drive and Pitch Fifth: Sarah Bullen and 15th to Robyn Anthony.
We all knew that the Championship would be close and at the moment it looks like a two-horse race between Gail and Emily.
Although I would not rule out our 2023 winner, Melissa Eddy who is more than capable of making a good run for the finish line in the next two rounds.
Stay tuned for more exciting results from the Euroa Ladies.
NAGAMBIE GOLF CLUB
By DAVID LOVE
THE sunny weather and early Summertime tee off has the Nagambie golfers turning out in good numbers with 40 teeing it up for a Sstableford event with the course holding up nicely through the dry Spring thus far.
Daniel Hall was the form golfer on the day returning 41 Stableford points to win the day by two, accurate long drives and maintaining composure for 18 holes the key to Hall’s success.
An absolute logjam was played out for runner up with four players all finishing there day on 39 points, Phil Neville was the eventual runner up on count back pushing ahead of Ryan Ezard, Shane Black and Barry Cryer all 39 points.
The nearest the pin prizes went to Steve Donnison firing a crisp
OPENING ROUND: Perfect weather
iron onto the eighth, Lindsay Hall finding the green at the 13th and Jeff Lodding drilling one home on the 16th.
Next week’s golf will be a stroke event and the firstt round of the Summer trophy, on office duty will be B. Leviston and in the bar B. Cassar.
This coming Friday November 15 will be a twilight four Person Ambrose sponsored by Costa Mushrooms, hit off will be between 4.30pm and 5.30pm entries can be phoned through to Ronda on 0408 349 505 or David 0419 672 442.
EUROA GOLF CLUB
By RICHARD JOHNSON
A BIG field of 46 players competed in the second round of the Club Championships sponsored by B D Northeast Electrics.
Division One Winner was Scott Meehan with 78-10 Net 68 while Charlie Watson 86-16 Net 70 was the Division Two winner.
Good golfing conditions produced some excellent scores, and Balls down the Line went to Sam Mills Net 70, Don Bubeck Net 70, Peter Bath Net 70 while Marcus Steers and Brian Rule each had Net 71 and Peter Bath, Bill Wright and Ed Carracher were on Net 72.
Ed Carracher had the flat stick dialed in with just 24 putts to pick up the putting prize as well as a Nearest the Pin.
Neil Healey turned it on in the Friday Twilight event with 24 points to edge out Cohen Paul on 23 points.
25 players enjoyed the Twilight event.
The Sunday nine-hole event was won by Tony Walters with 22 points to round out a busy week of golf that saw 87 competition rounds played across the competition events.
Wednesday will see the field take on the challenge of a par event with stroke for the third round of the championships on Saturday.
The Annual General Meeting of the club is to be held on November 18 and on the following Monday November 25 the club is hosting the John Dewan Seniors Tournament which this year is sponsored by Tony Walters.
AVENEL GOLF CLUB
By LYN CARRACHER
RESULTS from Friday’s twilight golf saw Dhana Furlanetto scoop the pool with a fantastic 25 points.
Tim Batten won the Imperial Hotel raffle voucher.
The club was well represented at the Mallacoota tournament last week by Dale, Jared, Lindsay and Campbell Smith, Mark and Rayden Hannigan and Scoota Donovan, with the aim being to retain the coveted Sand Rake Challenge Trophy (and of course enjoy the hospi-
Presentation evening will be on Saturday September 16 from 6.30 pm.
The club will provide meat for the BBQ and members are asked to provide a salad please.
There are still a few tournaments coming up around the district – details will be posted on social pages as they come through.
In the meantime, good golfing to everyone.
STRATHBOGIE GOLF CLUB
By KRISTEN MOORE
SATURDAY, November 9, was the fourth and final round of our club championships.
With the course drying out fast, there were many big bouncessome good and some bad.
We welcomed two new members for their first competition round: Pat, playing his first 18 holes ever, and Wayne, putting in his third card to get his handicap.
The winner of the day, playing his first Saturday round for a long time, was Archie Bayles with an impressive score of 72 nett.
Line balls went to:
Chris Bennett (nett 74).
Jack McDonald (nett 74).
Kristen Moore (nett 75).
Ria Pearce (nett 75).
Phil Fry (nett 75).
Men’s Drive and Pitch was won by Nathan McAulay.
Nearest the pin winners were:
On the fourth: Greg Roberts. No one on the 8th.
On the 15th: Allan Rowarth. On the 17th: Gerard Reynolds. The winner of the putting contest was Chris Bennett with 27 putts, and the straightest drive was won by Kerry Hewlett.
Results of the Championships. Congratulations to our winners in the Club Championships: Men’s Champion: Jack McDonald with 241.
Runner-up: Chris Bennett with 252.
tal of our Mallacoota friends).
Once again young Campbell came to the fore on Men’s Day, shooting 77 off the stick, which won him the A Grade nett - missed the scratch by one shot.
Rayden picked up the clubs for the first time in a while and continued his winning Mallacoota form collecting the Junior Championship prize.
Not to be outdone by the other boys, Lindsay had a nice collect by winning the “golden shot”.
Lindsay and Jed both scored eagles on the day and Mark collected a NTP prize in Thursday’s event.
When the scores were tallied at the end of the day, Avenel easily retained the Sand Rake Trophy and losing team captain, Greg Hopkins was later given the dishonour of attaching the winning plaque to the rake, which I must add – appeared to already have been engraved.
Our boys must’ve been confident.
From all accounts, it was a great few days away and we look forward to welcoming the “Coota” gang back to our tournament in August.
Twilight on Friday will kick off from 5 pm, all welcome to come along – no handicap necessary.
The bar will be opening around 4.30 pm.
There’ll be a comp on Saturday if there’s enough interested players – keep an eye on the socials for details.
Ladies Champion: Ria Pearce with 281.
Runner-up: Kerry Hewlett with 290.
Alan and Noela Moore Handicap Champions.
Ladies Winner: Ria Pearce with 227.
Runner-up: Kristen Moore with 229.
Men’s Winner: David Kennett with 221 (on countback).
Runner-up: Chris Bennett also on 221.
The Arthur Frost four Ball is a Stableford event, not as previously posted as Ambrose.
Please get your entries in for the Arthur Frost 4 Ball on December 7 - we would love to see you at this tournament.
Next Saturday is the final of the monthly medal winners.
The players competing for this honour are:
Mick Dixey.
John Moore.
Kerry Hewlett. David Kennett.
Shae Van Der Schoor. Nathan McAulay. Ria Pearce. Luke Winnell. Gerard Reynolds. Neil Thomas. Ryley McDonald. Phil Fry.
Kerry Hewlett is on duty, and the rest of the members will be playing Stableford.
TEAM EFFORT: Melissa Eddy, Grace Eddy, and Erica Mercer team up for a photo.
GREAT DAY: Marion McMartin and Dot Rule enjoy each other’s company on a beautiful day.
greeted golfers as they teed off in the first round of Euroa Ladies Golf. PHOTOS: Dale Mann
Norton’s near century keeps E Grade in the fight
By JACK WILSON
A GRADE
DECLAN Redfern and Walter Jackson strode confidently to the crease, ready to tackle the challenge ahead.
The first wicket fell quickly with the score at just two, but Euroa remained undeterred.
Batting cautiously, they faced a relentless bowling attack, with wickets tumbling at regular intervals.
By afternoon tea, the scoreboard read 7-111, with Josh Robertson, Walter Jackson, and Ryan Hill fighting valiantly to save the innings.
After the break, a dramatic collapse saw Euroa lose their last three wickets for just 33 runs, ending their innings at 144 in 45.2 overs.
Euroa started Old Students’ innings off in the best possible way, with Darby Wilson and Walter Jackson each taking a wicket early on. Their tight and precise bowling kept the pressure on the visitors, making it difficult for them to score freely.
By the end of the day, Euroa’s disciplined attack had successfully restricted Old Students to 2-47 at stumps, setting the stage for a promising second day.
SCORECARD: First innings Euroa 144 (R Hill 36, J Robertson 29) vs. Old Students 2-47 (W Jackson 1-9, D Wilson 1-11)
Euroa A Grade played host to Old Students at the Friendlies Oval in Round six of the Haisman Shield.
Captain Scott Hamilton won the toss and elected to bat first.
B GRADE
GRAYSON Kirk and Oli Swain walked out to bat with confidence, hoping to set a solid foundation. Unfortunately, Kirk was dis-
missed after just eight overs.
The next over, Swain was also out, leaving the score at 2-16.
Despite these early setbacks, Euroa saw contributions from Jye Bjorksten, Ash Ellis, and Archie Wilson, who kept the scoreboard moving with some good shots and smart running between the wickets.
However, a collapse saw their last four wickets fall for just 10 runs.
The innings ended with Euroa all out for 112 in 45 overs.
Old Students began their chase, but Euroa’s bowlers were relentless.
Early breakthroughs by Archie Wilson, Ethan Saxon, and Jye Bjorksten put the opposition on the back foot.
Saxon’s precise deliveries and Bjorksten’s clever variations ensured that Old Students could never settle, keeping the pressure high.
By the end of the day’s play, Old Students had outperformed Euroa, finishing at a stronger position of 4-85 compared to Euroa’s 112.
SCORECARD: First innings Euroa 112 (J Bjorksten 35, A Ellis 21) vs.
OFF THE MARK: Walter Jackson plays a shot through the field during the match against Old Students.
RIGHT: WAITING GAME: Walter Jackson watches intently as the ball rockets through to the keeper.
Old Students 4-85 (E Saxon 2-33, J Bjorksten 1-10).
Euroa travelled to Kialla to face Old Students in round six of the Clive Young Shield.
Jye Bjorksten won the toss and elected to bat first.
E GRADE
THE decision seemed promising as the openers made a brisk start.
However, Euroa quickly found themselves in trouble at 2-19 before Norton strode to the crease.
Along with Phil Thompson, they stabilized the innings with a 55-run partnership until Thompson was trapped LBW for a well-made 21.
Patty Murphy then joined Norton, and together they forged another strong 55-run partnership before Murphy was caught.
Cooper Goodall and Norton further contributed with a wonderful 70-run stand before Norton was caught in the deep, just one run short of a well-deserved century.
Euroa ended the innings with 7-212.
Despite this competitive total,
Martial Arts milestone in Euroa
■ From back page
In addition to the students’ black belt promotions, the event also offers the possibility of two Godan (5th Degree Black Belt) promotions - a rank reserved for seasoned teachers with over a decade of instructing experience.
Attaining this “Masters in the Art of Self-Defence” rank signifies an elite level of knowledge and expertise that often takes 25-30 years of dedication to achieve.
For both the students and teachers involved, this day will be a defining moment, representing the pinnacle of years of dedication, resilience, and community support.
“Our hope is that this event will inspire others to take up martial arts, whether with us or another dojo,” said Pittock.
“Whenever you have students ready for their black belt exam, it’s a special time for the club.
This event is even more special as we have teachers being considered for their Godan.”
Kyabram’s batsmen rose to the challenge.
Early in their innings, Euroa’s bowlers struggled to find breakthroughs, with Kyabram smashing Euroa to all parts of the ground.
Just when it seemed like Kyabram would cruise to victory, Jack Wilson stepped up with a stellar spell, taking three crucial wickets and turning the game in Euroa’s favour.
Youngster Freddy Hamill claimed a wicket, and late in the game, Cam Walker got his first wicket in senior cricket.
However, despite their best efforts, Kyabram managed to reach the target with 18 overs remaining.
Euroa has the bye next week before hosting Northerners at the Memorial the following week
SCORECARD: Euroa 7-212 (C Norton 99, C Goodall 22) def by Kyabram 5-215 (J Wilson 3-17, C Walker 1-19).
Euroa travelled to face Kyabram in round five of the Whitelock Shield (E Grade).
Captain Carl Norton won the toss and chose to bat first, trying to exploit the short boundaries.
The public is invited to witness this event, held at the dojo on 6 Howitt Avenue, Euroa.
For those interested in exploring martial arts, the club welcomes new members and offers regular practice sessions every Wednesday night. Contact Jonno Pittock on 0419 334 396.
ROCK SOLID: Declan Redfern gets behind the ball, but unfortunately hasn’t been able to fire this season.
PHOTOS: Dale Mann
TAMARA SMITH GEARS UP FOR SEMI-FINAL
Martial Arts milestone in Euroa
By DAN GODSMARK
LOCAL dojo in Euroa is set to host a historic event for martial arts in the region, as four dedicated students prepare to take their Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt) and Nidan (2nd Degree Black Belt) exams.
This major milestone not only marks years of rigorous training but also coincides with an extraordinary gathering of two renowned martial artists - Shihan Hoffman, the Chief Instructor and a 9th Dan black belt, and Sosai Les Anyos, a 10th Dan Shinbukai Karate master from Japan.
Having two such highranking masters together is an exceptionally rare occurrence outside of Japan, making this a unique and prestigious event for Euroa.
The dojo will welcome students and teachers from affiliated clubs across the region, including Albury Wodonga Martial Arts, SKD Martial Arts in Cobram, Ikigai Martial Arts in Wangaratta, and Renshu Martial Arts in Howlong.
Each affiliated club is sending representatives to support this remarkable occasion, with students from Shepparton, Benalla, Yarrawonga, Myrtleford, and Melbourne also expected to attend.
With roots in the junior classes, students Sonny and Angus have dedicated over eight years to their martial arts training, rising through the ranks and maturing into fine young adults ready for their first black belt exams.
This rigorous examination is expected to last 3-4 hours and includes demonstrations of physical endurance, skill, and a presentation showcasing their ability to lead. Additionally, they must demonstrate their mastery by breaking two terracotta roofing tiles, a feat requiring precise technique and focus.
The path to black belt, however, is not limited to physical prowess.
Examiners will be assessing each student’s attitude, understanding of martial arts philosophy, and demeanor.
“Our students understand what is required of them, and they have been putting in extra work in the lead-up to the examination,” said Jonno Pittock, the dojo’s instructor. “Knowing that they can commit to something for 10 years and achieve a difficult goal builds confidence that carries into every area of life.”
■ Continued page 23
20
Euroa Football Netball Club at the crossroads
By DAN GODSMARK
AS the 2024 season draws to a close, Euroa Football Netball Club finds itself at a pivotal moment, with both football and netball teams navigating significant transitions.
Head coach Ryan Pendlebury is departing after his first season to pursue an assistant coaching role with the North Melbourne AFLW team and to join St Mary’s Sporting Club as a player, while marquee player Will Hayes has been signed by the Carlton Blues reserve side.
Meanwhile, netball A grade playing coach Ellie Warnock has yet to confirm whether she will continue in her role for the 2025 season.
These departures could leave Euroa with key gaps to fill as they prepare for the next season.
Interest in the vacant head coach position is already high, and the club faces a crucial decision: whether to bring in an experienced out-of-town coach to add depth and keep the premiership
window open, or to focus on a local leader who understands Euroa’s unique culture and can harness the emerging talent within the club.
Promising young players from the talent-rich Under-18s, like Ryan Hill, Mitchell Walter, and Will Creevey, are set to join the senior ranks after already playing a handful of senior games in 2024, bringing fresh energy and potential to the squad.
Rising stars Cohen Paul and Darby Wilson, fresh from the Murray Bushrangers, will also be playing their first senior year.
Paul, coming off a selection in the Vic Country Under-18s game, is known for his height and versatility and is expected to add polish across the ground, while Darby Wilson is set to bring speed, grit, and defensive pressure to the backline.
The return of Tom Burke, playing alongside his brother Nick, who had a breakout year with the Magpies, promises to boost the team.
However, the club will still require additional reinforcements to maintain the competitive edge of recent seasons.
A midseason review in 2024 highlighted the impact of Andrew Smith’s and others’ exits, leaving a notable gap in Euroa’s ruck.
Finding a tall, dominant player to support the midfield will be essential for the club’s future success.
Depth will also be tested by Brad Gleeson’s recent senior coaching appointment at Violet Town, which has drawn several players from Euroa’s reserves.
Nevertheless, Euroa’s foundation remains strong, with familiar names like the Hills, McKernans, Gleesons, and Trotters providing a reliable core.
Gus Varley and Andrew Bell, who recently reached 200 senior games in 2024, will bring the necessary experience.
On the netball side, Euroa faces similar uncertainties.
Ellie Warnock, the architect behind recent grand final wins in both A and B grades, has yet to confirm her plans for 2025.
Warnock, who has commuted from Geelong to Euroa for several seasons, has been instrumental for the A grade team.
Her impact extended to interleague, where she coached the team to a breakthrough win.
Her decision will likely influence whether her teammates remain at Euroa, and the club is hopeful she will return to build on the momentum and work toward back-to-back premierships.
As Euroa heads into the preseason, the club’s supporters and community eagerly await updates.
The appointment of a new coach, key player commitments, and the integration of talented juniors will all play crucial roles in shaping the club’s future.
Euroa is ready to face the challenges ahead and aims for a successful 2025 season in both football and netball.
YOUTH BRIGADE: Lochie Hill leads the next generation of talent making their mark at Euroa.
BIG SHOES: Wil Hayes has set a high standard for the Magpies over the past two years.
RUCKING HOLE: Since Andrew Smith’s departure, Euroa has felt the absence of a dominant Ruckman.
