Euroa Gazette 160823

About 185 people gathered in Seven Creeks Park, Euroa, last Friday afternoon to see a 3.5 metre high magpie sculpture created by artists Tank and Tobin unveiled to the community.

■ See the story and more photos on pages 8 and 9

St Joseph’s school crossing supervisor to be defunded

Another supervisor lost to shire; stand-off between council and state continues p;

BY DARREN CHAITMAN dchaitman@ nemedia.com.au

Findlay,

use the crossing and the number of vehicles that use the road.

“It’s disappointing, because as a school and as a community, keeping our children safe is a priority, if not the most important thing,” Ms Findlay said.

The government reviewed

the crossing, as well as other school crossings in the Strathbogie Shire, in response to Strathbogie Shire Council’s decision to withdraw funding from the school crossing supervision program earlier this year.

“To think that [the council] are putting money before the

safety of children is alarming, but it’s also disappointing,” Ms Findlay said.

“I think regardless of money or finance, we always need to do what’s best for our children and I don’t believe that losing the crossing is a positive step.”

■ Continued page 2

ARTC announces contractor shortlist for final Inland Rail projects

INLAND Rail has shortlisted construction contractors CPB Contractors, John Holland and McConnell Dowell to build the final eight Inland Rail projects in Victoria.

The three contractors will now develop their final design and construct tender submissions for the Inland Rail Beveridge to Albury section for

Tranche 2 works at Benalla, Euroa, Broadford, Wandong, Seymour, and Tallarook.

According to the ARTC, the request for tender shortlisting follows a rigorous expression of interest process, which drew a high standard of responses from local and interstate construction firms

EUROA’S FUTURE: An ARTC visualisation, published on YouTube in January 2023, of the road underpass proposed to replace the Anderson Street bridge.

EUROA’S FUTURE: An A S

Inland Rail works are scheduled to begin in 2025 in Euroa I l d R il k h d l d t b gi i 2025 i E

to deliver Inland Rail.

In Victoria, work will be undertaken at 12 sites to enable double-stacked freight trains to pass safely.

McConnell Dowell is currently delivering four Beveridge to Albury Tranche 1 sites at Glenrowan, Barnawartha North, Wangaratta, and Seymour.

“The preferred contractor will be announced in mid-2024, with Tranche 2 construction starting from 2025,” an ARTC spokesperson said.

ARTC Victoria and South Australia Projects general manager Ed Walker said the remaining eight Victorian Inland Rail sites will

be awarded to the very best available team.

“ARTC is now entering a formal request for tender phase to determine who will be chosen,” Mr Walker said.

“The successful contractor for this portion of the work will be required to deliver initiatives and meet

targets related to industry participation, sustainability, employment, and workforce development with the Inland Rail team working closely with them to achieve these targets.

“The first four Tranche 1 sites are moving quickly, and it will be great to get the shovels in the ground for the remaining eight Tranche 2 sites.”

St Joseph’s school crossing supervisor to be defunded

■ From page 1

The council has claimed the crossing supervision program is the responsibility of the State Government, but the program has been a shared responsibility between local councils and the Department of Planning and Transport since it began in the 1970s.

Earlier this year, Mayor Laura Binks argued withdrawing from the program had been a last resort after the government would not agree to a fairer funding model – that is, she believed it was unfair council had been footing the majority of the bill for the program, even though four out of five of the shire’s school crossings are located on government-managed arterial roads.

According to council’s March ordinary meeting agenda, the average number of children who use the St Joseph’s crossing daily is nine in the morning and six in the afternoon.

By comparison, each day an average of four children in each timeslot use the Avenel Primary School crossing, and six in each timeslot use the Euroa Primary School crossing.

Some 60 children use the St John’s Primary crossing in the morning and 45 in the afternoon; 23 children use the Nagambie Primary School crossing in the morning and 52 in the afternoon.

The Department of Transport and Planning declined to confirm whether any other schools in the shire will lose their crossing supervisor from next term.

Ms Findlay said even if St Joseph’s does not meet the department’s criteria for a supervised crossing, she believes there is still a need for a supervised crossing.

She said the situation is unique at her school as children have three roads to cross before they get to school, and other community members also use the crossing, including elderly people from a nearby retirement village and people using scooters.

“The town is getting bigger, it’s getting busier, so, [parents] are

ANOTHER SUPERVISOR DEFUNDED: St Joseph’s School Nagambie is the latest to learn it will lose its crossing supervisor from term 4, after the State Government found its crossing did not meet program requirements, based on a review that followed the council’s withdrawal from the program. In the back row are St Joseph’s School principal Maree Findlay (left) and crossing supervisor Sandi McKinnon. In front are students Noah (left), River, Scout and Delilah.

concerned for their children… and wanting to know what we as a school are going to do, but also what can be done to provide safety for the children,” she said.

She plans to advocate to the government to reinstate the crossing and also to work with the community to educate children about crossing the road safely.

In the meantime, she also plans to fill the crossing supervisor role herself from the beginning of term four, just as

Nagambie Primary School principal Rob French has been doing since their school crossing supervisor was defunded from the beginning of term three.

Following their withdrawal from the crossing supervision program, council was initially successful in having the State Government fund crossing supervision for four of the shire’s five school crossings, but Nagambie Primary School was left out because its crossing is on a council

road (Goulburn Street), not an arterial road managed by the government.

But the State Government never agreed to manage the other school crossings on an ongoing basis – and now at least two of the shire’s five school crossings (Nagambie Primary School and St Joseph’s School Nagambie) will not be funded from term four, while the future of the shire’s other three crossings remains unclear.

In comments made to The Euroa Gazette last week, member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland called on the council to review its position.

“Funding these crossings is a small price to pay for the safety of our children and I hope the Strathbogie Shire ultimately reviews its position on withdrawing from the program,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Having spoken with schools, families, and students from these towns, it is abundantly clear that resolving this matter is a priority for them.”

Speaking in the Victorian parliament in June, shortly before the State Government agreed to fund four of the shire’s five crossing supervisors, Ms Cleeland had advocated to the government to provide funding, saying that “a lack of funding support from this state government has left our kids in a dangerous position”.

“The local council has now decided it will no longer foot the bill for this government’s responsibility,” she said at that time.

In separate statements provided to The Euroa Gazette last week, spokespeople for the State Government and Strathbogie Shire Council both said they were working together towards a solution, but did not provide further details.

Previously, Mayor Binks has pointed out that the State Government is funding school crossing supervisors on council roads in the Northern Grampians Shire.

The Department of Transport and Planning did not respond to a question asking why they are funding crossing supervisors on council roads in the Northern Grampians Shire but not the Strathbogie Shire.

Last year, Strathbogie Shire Council joined with 24 other Victorian councils in a campaign led by Monash City Council asking the government to review the school crossing supervision program and its funding, but that campaign was unsuccessful in generating action from the State Government.

Shirley Saywell named as new shire councillor

Saywell to be sworn in after returning from leave in early October

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By DARREN CHAITMAN

SHIRLEY Saywell has been elected as a councillor for the Strathbogie Shire’s Seven Creeks Ward.

Following the resignation of Kristy Hourigan late last month, Ms Saywell was invited by the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) to accept the role of councillor, as the only candidate remaining from the October 2020 general election.

Ms Saywell told The Euroa Gazette she is on leave until early October and will be sworn in as a councillor on her return, as agreed with Strathbogie Shire Council.

The well-known Euroa local, who in her own words has “a finger in many pies”, is owner of transport business Brady & Kibble and president of Euroa Arboretum and Euroa Environment Group.

In 2020, her priorities for council included smart energy development, responsible land

management, a vibrant townscape and tourism initiatives.

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

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

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

Her predecessor in council, Ms Hourigan, cited “in-house political bureaucracy”, gender bias and increased work commitments as contributing to her decision to resign last month.

Ms Saywell’s election came at a testing time for council, shortly before municipal monitor Peter Stephenson finished his term on August 15, after being appointed by the Minister for Local Government in response to concerns about governance and the safety of councillors and council staff

By DARREN CHAITMAN

STRATHBOGIE Shire Council’s municipal monitor, Peter Stephenson, finished his term on Tuesday, August 15.

Mr Stephenson was expected to deliver his report on the same day to the Minister for Local Government, Melissa Horne, with recommendations that were set to determine the council’s future, including whether the current group of elected councillors would continue to be employed.

At the time of going to press – at 10am on Tuesday, August 15 – Mr Stephenson’s report had not been made public.

It is expected the office of Minister Horne will make the report public after the government has made it’s decision.

At Tuesday night’s ordinary council meeting, councillors were set to sign and commit to a “statement of intent” (SOI) to be delivered to the minister in response to the appointment of Mr Stephenson, who was the second municipal monitor to be appointed to the council in less than a year.

The SOI, prepared with the help of Andrew Douglas of FCW Lawyers, sought to guide and direct behaviour between councillors as a group, and between councillors and council officers, according to the meeting agenda.

“Councillors acknowledge that it has been a difficult year … our collective ability to ensure a safe and respectful workplace and to demonstrate good governance has not been constantly successful,” the SOI read in part.

“At the heart of our problem is the hurt and anger that has damaged our goodwill and col-

legiality over time.

“This means that some of us have struggled to function properly.

“This lack of cohesion is not what our community expects from us - it expects a mature, cohesive policy development body that overseas (sic) the monies and responsibilities of the community in a fair, respectful and careful way.”

Mr Douglas also helped councillors develop a transition plan and an updated 10-point action plan (an amended version of that provided by the council’s earlier municipal monitor, Janet Dore), which were to be formally committed to at Tuesday night’s meeting.

Councillors undertook intensive training with Mr Douglas in response to the monitor’s appointment, which was budgeted

at a cost of $26,000 in the 2023/24 council budget.

Payment to the municipal monitor, also at a cost to ratepayers, was set by Minister Horne at the time of his appointment to be between $30,000–$45,000 plus expenses based on $1259 per day.

Expenses in the 2022/23 budget also included $15,000 to cover the cost of the Victorian Electoral Commission countback following Cr Dave Andrews’ resignation and $32,000 for the employment of a governance advisor who is providing governance expertise to council while a replacement is sought for people and governance director Dawn Bray, who resigned in June.

In late June, Cr Reg Dickinson spoke publicly about the possibility that he and his fellow councillors could lose their jobs.

“We may well be sacked or

there may be walkouts, there may be resignations, whatever,”

Cr Dickinson said during council’s June ordinary meeting.

“If we can’t do a better job we’re going to get the flick, as we deserve, so either we decide to do something about this situation or we might as well finish up.”

Cr Chris Raeburn met his remarks with agreement.

“I agree with Cr Dickinson: if we want to live past tonight and the future, we have to all work together as one,” Cr Raeburn said in June.

Whether the efforts of councillors, with the assistance of Mr Douglas, were successful in this endeavour to work together remain to be seen, as the communities of the Strathbogie Shire await the publication of the monitor’s report.

ELECTED TO COUNCIL: Well-known Euroa local Shirley Saywell has been elected as a councillor for Seven Creeks Ward.

PHOTO: Shirley Saywell, Facebook

TAKING NOTE: Municipal monitor Peter Stephenson, pictured at council’s ordinary meeting in June, finished his term on Tuesday, August 15.

PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

Second municipal monitor Peter Stephenson delivers his report, to be reviewed by Minister

Funding calls for our region’s roads and bridges

At last night’s Council meeting, Councillors were asked to endorse a Notice of Motion which calls for the Victorian Government to invest in critical road and bridge projects in small rural and regional shires. The Notice of Motion has been submitted to the Municipal Association of Victora (MAV) for consideration at the MAV State Council Meeting scheduled for October 13, 2023. It’s the latest in our advocacy efforts for increased funding for our extensive network of roads and bridges. We’re asking the government to reallocate funding previously allocated to the 2026 Commonwealth Games, and now earmarked for sporting upgrades, to critical roads and bridge projects in small rural and regional shires.

Our argument is: that while we understand and wholeheartedly supports the significant benefits of sport in Strathbogie Shire and throughout Victoria, rural and regional communities need safe roads and bridges to get people there.

Kirwans Bridge update

At last night’s Council Meeting, Councillors also noted an Expression of Interest application submitted by officers to the Commonwealth Government Growing Regions Program. The application is an important opportunity to secure grant funding towards realising the much-needed rehabilitation and reopening of Kirwans Bridge.

The reopening of Kirwans Bridge is one of Council’s top advocacy priorities. It will not only enhance connectivity but also prioritise public safety. Looking for a local club or group?

Did you know one of the features of our website is a community directory. It’s a listing of clubs, community groups and businesses in the Strathbogie community.

You can search through local listings, or list your club or business. It’s really simple just head to www.strathbogie. vic.gov.au and click on the ‘find a business, club or group’ button.

Magpie sculpture standing proud

We are so excited to see our Tank and Tobin Magpie sculpture standing proudly in Seven Creeks Park. Thank you to all those who came and celebrated on Friday night, and if you weren’t there, make sure you head down to the park for a look.

The sculpture is a wonderful story of a community led project that Council embraced. It was initiated by a joint submission by the Chamber and the Euroa Community Action group to Council’s Pitch My Project initiative in the 2022/23 Budget.

It received significant community support, and we are proud to see this support come to fruition.

1800 065 993

$1K quick response grants remain open

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

Bushfire resilience workshops

Bushfire Resilience Inc is hosting a series of webinars to help with fire preparedness. Recent rainfall has supercharged fuel loads and dry conditions will increase fire risks next summer, especially grass fires. You can watch the webinars with family and friends and discuss the information and your plans. Bushfire Resilience Inc’s webinars are presented by eminent subject experts. Viewers can ask questions before or during the webinar, and when you register you will also receive links to videos for more info.

To register and learn more head to www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au

Work with us

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

Rates & Revenue Coordinator. Full time, ongoing role. Band 7 – $87,495 annually + 11% super. Applications close 9am, Wednesday 30 August 2023.

Maternal & Child Health Nurse. $49.09 to $52.75 per hour based on qualifications and experience. Part Time permanent opportunity – up to 22 hours per week. Casual opportunities also available. Applications close 9am, Monday 28 August 2023. Visit www.strathbogie.vic. gov.au for further details and instructions on how to apply.

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

Tenders now open

The following tenders are now open at Strathbogie Shire Council:

quotation provision of (Used)

5T mass minimum excavator.

Lump sum (Contract Number 23/24-09). Closing: 16/08/2023 roads reseal program (contract number 23/2402). Closing 23/08/2023).

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

www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au

info@strathbogie.vic.gov.au

Students to raise funds for secondary school at Euroa Farmers’ Market

By HELEN BROOK

THE sun is shining – let’s get outdoors and soak it up.

The monthly Euroa Farmers’ Market is on this Saturday, August 19 along Kirkland Ave from 9am to 1pm, so throw off the winter woolies and embrace this nice weather and shop.

Shop at Euroa Farmers Market and support local and small businesses who all love what they do, grow and are proud to sell to you.

You can buy plants and garden ornaments; treats for your dog and unique presents for the kids; soaps and bread, clothing and beanies, chocolate and olive oil; fresh flowers and craft beer, and of course all the in season fruit and veggies.

The young year 12 students from Euroa Secondary College will be flipping the eggs on the community barbecue to raise funds for the school for the final time.

Go along and say hello.

It’s all at the Euroa Farmers Market this Saturday.

See you there.

For more information about the market, call me on 0447 360 059.

Wallan train derailment findings delivered

A BREAKDOWN in risk management processes contributed to the derailment of an XPT passenger train at Wallan in early 2020, after the service entered a crossing loop at more than 100kph the permitted speed.

The service, which was travelling from Sydney to Melbourne along the North East rail line on February 20, was recorded at speeds of between 114 and 127kph as it entered the loop, which carried a maximum speed of 15kph, and ultimately derailed, killing the driver and a single worker and injuring a further 66 passengers and crew.

Eight passengers were admitted to hospital with serious injuries, while 53 passengers and five service crew sustained minor injuries.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) recently identified 15 safety issues which contributed to the crash, which occurred after a signalling hut was rendered inoperable following a fire earlier in the month.

The investigation found rail infrastructure manager Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) had given train drivers permission to travel through a 24km section of track between Kilmore East and Donnybrook while the signalling system was out of action.

The deceased qualified worker boarded the train at Kilmore East, and provided the XPT driver with a modi-

fied train authority document which detailed the service would be routed through the Wallan Loop.

ATSB chief commissioner Angus Mitchell said the change in route had occurred on February 20 to allow contaminants to be removed from the track before testing the repaired signalling system.

“In the 12 days prior to the accident, the driver had operated the XPT service through Wallan eight times, and on all occasions the crossing loop was locked out of service, this has led us to believe they probably expected to remain on the straight track, where the speed limit was 130kph through Wallan,” he said.

“However, there was no protocol in place to confirm the driver’s understanding of the revised instruction,

with no requirement for the driver to read back or confirm the instructions to the network control officer.”

The investigation also found NSW Trains did not have a functioning process for obtaining critical safety information for its Victorian operations from the ARTC web portal.

Mr Mitchell said more needed to be done to manage the risk associated with human error.

“There was an over-reliance on administrative controls and the missed opportunities to use existing and emerging technologies to manage risk associated with human error,” he said.

“To improve safety outcomes, the rail sector must move faster and together in embracing technology to improve its management of safety risks.”

RISK MANAGEMENT FAILURE: The site of the 2020 Wallan train derailment, which occurred due to a failure in risk management on the part of the ARTC, according to an Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigation.

IS THAT CHEESE?: It may look like cheese at first glance, but these are soap products, Persephones Creations by Kris, regularly sold by Kris Piper at the Euroa Farmers Market.

Euroa’s EV museum opens its doors for National Science Week

Francis Reeves operates a little-known electric vehicle museum on Tarcombe Street p

By DARREN CHAITMAN

DID you know there is an electric vehicle museum in Euroa?

Electric vehicle enthusiast Francis Reeves operates the museum at 34 Tarcombe Street and he is inviting people to visit during this National Science Week (August 12-20).

The private museum (open by appointment) opened last October at Mr Reeves’ home property and so far, it has mostly been patronised by electric vehicle owners who have stopped in Euroa to use the charging stations.

But Mr Reeves is keen to open his museum’s doors to a broader audience and he is in discussions with Euroa Secondary College to have a group of students visit soon.

His museum houses the Blade Electron 2008 (the first commercially available electric car in Australia), the Mitsubishi iMiEV 2011, an electric e-Glide scooter modified for elderly users and a selection of electric motors and battery chargers.

On top of that, Mr Reeves’ collection boasts four Tesla vehicles: the Model S (2023),

Model 3 (2019), Model X (2014) and Model Y (2023).

The museum operator points out that these letters spell S3XY, as intended by Tesla owner Elon Musk.

Speaking to The Euroa Gazette shortly after the town’s new magpie sculpture was unveiled in Seven Creeks Park, Mr Reeves said Euroa excels in the arts but falls short when it comes to science.

“[The museum] is the only opportunity to understand science in Euroa – we’ve concentrated on the arts in a lot of areas and we need to restore the balance,” he said.

The former industrial chemist and engineer was born in Melbourne and moved to Euroa about five years ago from Wangaratta.

If you are interested visiting Euroa’s electric vehicle museum, contact Mr Reeves on francisreeves@bigpond.com.

MUSEUM OPERATOR: Electric vehicle enthusiast

Francis Reeves operates the museum at 34 Tarcombe Street, Euroa and he is inviting people to visit during this National Science Week.

PHOTOS: Darren Chaitman

Test & Tune Days

independently,

to S5000 and everything in between.

FANCY THAT: Three of Mr Reeves’ four Tesla cars, which make up part of the electric vehicle museum’s impressive collection.

Rainfall (Euroa Township)

RAINFALL for Euroa in the week until 9am Monday, August 14 included 9mm on August 10, 1.6mm on August 12 and 1mm on August 13, totaling 11.6mm.

Est. 1897

45-47 Railway Street, Euroa VIC 3666

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Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner.

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

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Millard ADVERTISING ACCOUNTS MANAGER

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

Member

The case

to

save Chinamans Bridge

WE have an early masterpiece of wood structural engineering over Victoria’s largest river, the Goulburn, and we literally let it fall down.

The bridge is special because it was built and milled from local timber, coincided with the construction of the Goulburn Weir and linked in name with out Chinese heritage.

Its design even crossed the desk of Alfred Deakin, prime minister at the time and father of Australian irrigation, to ensure a raised section be incorporated so river traffic would not be blocked between Seymour and Chateau Tahblik.

When constructed in 1891, it was named Kerris Bridge to link Chinaman’s Road with Nagambie and the prosperous

gold towns of Graytown, Whroo and Rushworth.

Over time it became known as Chinaman’s Bridge as it was centre of a thriving market gardening community working the fertile levies up and down stream providing a local supply of fresh vegetables.

Unfortunately, the great flood of 1916 washed away the Chinese market gardens, their houses, Joss Houses [i.e., Chinese temples] and their faith to rebuild.

This bridge represents progress in the young state of Victoria, the diminishing of the state’s reliance on gold as a major industry and sadly the loss of our local Chinese community.

Do we let all this be pulled down, or do we fight to highlight its importance to our shire and Victoria?

I am the author and publisher at Doug Stone Gold Maps, Euroa. Doug Stone, Kelvin View

Helping the homeless

AS National Homelessness Week comes to an end, more needs to be done to support our most vulnerable people.

Despite the best efforts of the Labor Government’s marketing team, the “big build” is hardly contributing to better outcomes for regional communities and families.

As of March 2023, the Victorian Housing Register shows that nearly 67,000 Victorians are on the public housing waitlist, an increase of close to 4000 people over the previous 12 months.

There are hundreds of people urgently waiting for housing in towns across the region, including Seymour, Benalla and the Broadford district.

I am regularly contacted by people who are in desperate need of housing, and they are

continually being told that there is simply no supply to house them.

The increasing number of people struggling to find affordable housing and facing homelessness is truly heartbreaking.

Thank you to communityled volunteer operations like the Benalla Homeless Response Group, who are doing incredible work to address these issues.

The group formed as locals heard more and more stories of the silent homeless, those who are couch surfing, people sleeping in cars near the lake, at the showgrounds and under the Benalla library, as well as those sleeping rough and bush camping out of town.

We need real tangible efforts from this government to tackle this crisis and support those who are most vulnerable.

Annabelle Cleeland, Member for Euroa

MUSICAL CITIZENS

REJOICE:

Last month, the Euroa Citizens Band received a grant of $10,437 to upgrade the kitchen at the William Pearson Memorial Hall, where they rehearse. The kitchen is in desperate need of an upgrade, according to conductor Chris Day – it does not even have hot water and the drainage ends up in the park. The Stronger Community grant was received through the office of Indi MP Helen Haines. Celebrating in the kitchen (prior to upgrades) are, in the back row, Taylor Jackson

Know what to do when stroke symptoms arise

AMBULANCE Victoria is calling on the community to work together to reduce the incidence of stroke.

As part of National Stroke Week, paramedics were out in force last week sharing the FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, and Time) signs of the medical emergency.

Stroke is one of the state’s biggest killers and a leading cause of disability, with people in regional areas at greater risk.

A stroke happens when blood supply to the brain is interrupted and occurs every 19 minutes in Australia.

Ambulance Victoria executive director clinical operations Anthony Carlyon said all Victorians can make a life-changing difference by knowing the stroke

signs and calling triple zero immediately.

“When it comes to stroke, every minute counts and the sooner paramedics arrive and transport patients for clot-busting treatment, the better one’s chance of surviving and maintaining a good quality of life,” Mr Carlyon said.

“More than 80 per cent of strokes can be prevented by simply managing an individual’s risk and living a healthy lifestyle.

Melbourne father Sebastian Gangemi owes his life to his quick-thinking colleagues who recognised he was having a stroke.

The 52-year-old carpenter had just arrived at a metro tun-

nel work site in May when he suddenly lost movement in his hand.

“I was holding a cup of coffee and the next minute I’d dropped it,” Mr Gangemi said.

“My colleague saw it happen and realised very quickly I wasn’t okay.

“My face had drooped and within minutes our first aid officer phoned triple zero.”

Two ambulances were dispatched, including the Mobile Stroke Unit (MSU) – a custombuilt stroke ambulance with a specialised team able to assess and start clot-dissolving treatment on the way to hospital.

Once there, Mr Gangemi underwent clot retrieval surgery

and has gone on to make a full recovery.

Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy said Mr Gangemi’s story is a great example of knowing how FAST signs can save lives and reduce disability after stroke.

“Time is of the essence,” she said.

These are the FAST signs of a stroke.

Face: Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?

Arms: Can they lift both arms?

Speech: Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?

Time is critical.

If you see any of these signs, call 000 straight away.

(left), John Horder,Col McCracken. Middle row: Lorraine Threlfall, Chris Day, Jean Duff, Gary Whyte, Isaac King, John Dunn. Front row: Ariadne Macara, Carter King, Christine Welsh, Karen Dunn.

Police investigating alleged Benalla shooting of 28-year-old man

A BENALLA man has been hospitalised following an alleged non-fatal shooting in the town.

Detectives from the Armed Crime Squad said

police are investigating the incident, after the 28-yearold man was allegedly shot on Monday morning.

Emergency services were called to a Ballantine

Street address around 6am, following reports a man had been located with a gunshot wound to the lower body.

A police spokesperson

said the local man had been transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

“The exact circumstances surrounding the incident

are yet to be determined and the investigation remains ongoing,” the spokesperson said.

Anyone with information, CCTV or dash

cam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au.

Darby leads Vic U12 team to victory

By DARREN CHAITMAN

EUROA’S Darby Hoare has led the School Sport Victoria’s under 12 football team to victory.

Darby, a student at St John’s Primary, was the captain of the team which won the School Sport Australia championship after the games took place over six days in Albury last week.

Over the first five days the Victorian team beat each other state’s team comfortably, often by over a hundred points.

The Victorians were undefeated by the time of the final against the South Australian team, who at that point were also undefeated.

But the South Australians met their match against Victoria, who came home with a 13-point win, taking out the championship.

Here is how Darby himself put the experience in a note written to The Euroa Gazette.

“The experience was a dream come true, to play at the best level possible against the best under 12 players in Australia was something I will never forget,” he wrote.

“I had an amazing group of team mates and coaching staff that I hope I stay friends with my whole life.

“The week in Albury was the best week of my life and we were all a bit emotional when it came to an end.

“It was pretty good feeling to have such great support throughout Euroa as everyone has been amazing, I had friends and family and my school watching me online and so many friends and family and locals make the effort to travel and watch me play.

“It’s been my dream to play football at the best level

and to be best role model to my teammates, that is why I love team sport, I had an amazing group of coaches who taught me so much on and off the field, which I will forever remember.”

Of 750 school students from across Victoria who trialled to compete in the

team, only 23 made the cut and only Darby was made captain.

CHAMPIONS: Darby with Victorian coach Leigh McQuillen after winning the championship trophy.

UNDEFEATED: New South Wales only landed one point against the undefeated Victorian team, who won by a whopping 129 points.

ST JOHN’S STAR: Victorian team captain Darby Hoare unfazed by a potential tackle from Queensland player Billy Payne.

Magnificent magpie sculpture finds a prime location in Euroa

Tank and Tobin’s preferred giant bird sculpture has permanent nest in Seven Creeks Park pgpp

BY DARREN CHAITMAN dchaitman@ nemedia.com.au

EUROA’S 3.5 metre high magpie sculpture – created by Tank & Tobin Sculpture Works – stands proud after it was unveiled last Friday.

Located in Seven Creeks Park, the town’s newest resident now gazes intently over Burtons Bridge in the direction of the Seven Creeks Hotel on Clifton Street, as if thirsty for a cold beer.

But the unblinking bird had spent its first moments here in the dark, hidden by a black sheet as about 185 people gathered for the big reveal.

Perhaps it could hear the music of singer and guitarist Trevor Joyce, or the sound of customers ordering bao buns from the Gypsy Trader Co’s food van or mulled wine from local winemaker Jenny Houghton’s stall.

These sounds quietened down as Strathbogie Shire

Council Mayor Laura Binks officially kicked off the unveiling event with a short speech, followed by Euroa Chamber of Commerce (ECoC) president Steph Swift and Euroa Community Action Group (ECAG) president Laura Baker.

“I’d like to thank those in the community and the business community who voted for this masterpiece, which has created so much energy and interest and excitement already,” Ms Swift told the crowd.

“We believe it will continue to do so into the future, increasing the town’s visitation levels, encouraging more visitors to our region, which will generate new and important opportunities for our local businesses.”

The sculpture had been funded to the tune of $20,000 in last year’s council budget after ECoC and ECAG jointly submitted a proposal for a public sculpture in Euroa through council’s “Pitch My Project” process.

Earlier this year, council invited community members to vote for their favourite sculpture from a shortlist of five designs by local artists.

The giant Australian magpie sculpture, which is a collaboration between Longwood’s Steve Tobin and Shepparton’s Tank, was the clear community favourite, winning the most votes by a comfortable margin.

But after Ms Baker’s speech, Tank and Tobin were nowhere to be seen, despite being scheduled to speak at the event.

Mayor Binks addressed the waiting crowd, saying it looked like the unveiling might need to go ahead without Tank and Tobin, before she was interrupted by a lady

in the crowd who called out that Mr Tobin had been spotted near the toilets.

Everyone at this point turned their heads to see Tank and Tobin in the distance, swaggering in at a relaxed pace. The crowd teasingly ap-

plauded and cheered the duo as they made their late entrance – they were undoubtedly the coolest and most popular kids in the park at that moment.

“A bus rolled over on the Hume Highway full of nuns,” Mr Tobin explained to the

crowd, after he and Tank took to the microphone.

“We finally got our big magpie,” Tank said, playing the straight man to his joking companion.

“Every time we can pull someone off the highway, they’ll buy a pie, they’ll go to

the pub for a feed.

“They’ll remember Euroa for having the big magpie.

“We’re not out to encourage Collingwood supporters to come to town … but it will happen, you know, and there’s over 300,000 Collingwood supporters out there,

that’ll want to come up and take a photo.”

After the mayor pulled the black cloak off the magpie, there was a brief pause as the crowd processed the park’s latest addition, but an upbeat mood slowly took hold.

■ Continued page 9

UNDER THE BIRD THAT DAY: Freddy Swift (left), Lewie Raglus and William Swift were the first kids to play under the bird in its new location, but will not be the last.

VIPS: ECoC president Steph Swift (front) and ECAG president Laura Baker (behind, left) also spoke at the event. Council had funded the artwork after receiving a “Pitch my Project” submission from ECoC and ECAG for a public sculpture.

BIRD SONG: Singer and guitarist Trevor Joyce provided the soundtrack to the unveilling event.

MODEST MAGPIE: At first, the 3.5 metre high magpie was hidden by a black sheet as about 185 people waited the big reveal.

THE BIG REVEAL: Cr Binks (right) pulled off the magpie’s black cloak, revealing to the community its newest resident. Artist Tank (left) removed its yellow bow.

■ From page 8

People came forward to pose for photos and kids climbed onto the sculpture’s wooden platform to play under the bird.

Even council CEO Julie Salomon – who declined to comment when asked her opinion of the sculpture – could be seen laughing and joking with Mr Tobin, a smile never leaving her face as they chatted beside

What do you think about the magpie sculpture?

the big artwork.

In an interview with The Euroa Gazette, Mr Tobin said the idea for a magpie sculpture came after he and Tank got great feedback on a blue wren sculpture they created, which was stationed in Seven Creeks Park temporarily last year and now lives at Euroa’s community garden on Bury Street.

“We knew how much love that brought to the town, and

the magpie being the main motif of the footy club … we thought it would bring people together,” he said.

“Rather than, what, putting a cabbage or something there.”

In keeping with their ethos as artists, the pair made the bird using locally sourced and recycled materials.

The bird’s exterior was made with locally sourced steel and its internal struc-

ture was created with preused materials including a garden hose, a flower pot, pipe cleaners and a black Strathbogie Shire Council bin, the artists said.

Tank, who did not wish to reveal his full name (explaining “it’s like Prince or Madonna” and “my mum calls me Tank”), said he and Tobin work well together because they share “a similar outlook on life of work-

ing and having a good time”.

They also complement each other – Tank is a fulltime artist who also paints and creates fibreglass cow sculptures, while Mr Tobin brings metalwork skills to their partnership as a welder and boilermaker.

The interview did not last long as Mr Tobin had brought along an Esky full of XXX Gold beers, which he and Tank were keen to par-

take of with their friends and admirers.

As the sun set, the crowd died down to a few scattered handfuls of beer drinkers and other socialisers, their backs turned to the magpie.

Already, it was strange to imagine the park had ever been without this bird – as if it were a piece of Euroa that had always been there, and somehow only now had become visible.

Will Dwyer, Longwood I like it, it’s about the best Steve and Tank could do, so full credit to them.

Shaun Hearmon, Longwood I think it’s a very impressive structure. It’s in a good spot, high profile.

Janine Wright, Euroa Good the Euroa district and community and I think it’s really good - very clever. We’d check it out on our way to the pub.

Helen Earle, Melbourne It’s amazing the way they’ve made him, I think he’s so realistic and he’s beautiful. I think he’s a he.

Dan Muprhy, Euroa We [Mary and I] think it’s absolutely marvellous, and a really good reflection of the local wildlife and the community.

Mary Murphy, Euroa

I think it’s very environmentally attuned, and I just love it. I think it’s just gorgeous, because I’m a real favourite of magpies.

GAZING OVER THE BRIDGE: Euroa’s newest resident gazes intently over Burtons Bridge in the direction of the Seven Creeks Hotel, as if thirsty for a cold beer.

THE ARTISTS: Tank and Tobin in front of their creation.

THE MAYOR AND THE MAGGIE: Strathbogie Shire Council Mayor Laura Binks officially kicked off the event with a short speech.

Photographer: Dale Mann

August

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

27 Jimmy and Jarrod’s Country and Rock n Roll Show. Featuring Sandi Dodd with supporting act Jimmy and Jarrod and live band: The Night Owls. Sunday 27 August 12 noon to 5pm at Longwood Community Centre. $15.00 per head, bookings essential. BYO drinks and nibbles – tea & coffee available. BBQ lunch available for purchase. Contact Jimmy on 0412 723 356.

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

September

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

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

25 Euroa Probus Club provides you with the opportunity to join a social club in your local community to meet retirees on a regular basis, listen to interesting speakers and join together in activities. Meetings are held 4th

Monday of each month, 10am at Uniting

Church Hall, Kirkland Ave Euroa. Enq: Fred 0408 443 288 or Stan 0427 884 075.

October

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

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

20-22

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

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

28-29

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

November

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

December

4 Longwood Senior’s Christmas Luncheon which is fantastic, held at the Longwood Community Centre. All seniors welcome. Enq: Margaret 0407 529 991.

Spirit of Anzac Prize applications open to secondary students across Victoria

LOCAL secondary school students could win an all expenses paid trip to Turkey by answering the following questions: What does the “Anzac spirit” mean today in a diverse and multicultural Australia? And to what extent can your definition be related to the events and peoples of World War One?

The 2023 Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Prize competition, an annual award program for Victorian students in years 9 to 12, will see 10 students selected to embark on a journey to battlefields and commemorative sites in Turkiye, retracing the experience of Australian men and women at war on

the Gallipoli Peninsula and surrounds and learning about the making of the Anzac legend.

Student entries to address the topic question could include an essay; a short story, poem or another literary format; an audio or video presentation; a musical composition;

a web page; or an artwork.

Earlier this year, a memorial dedicated to Sir Charles Ryan (1853–1926) – an important WWI figure to Turkey and Australia – was installed at Euroa’s Telegraph Park.

To apply or find out more about the prize, visit vic.gov. au/SOAP.

Euroa Little Theatre closes the chapater on another production

Three performances of “Seaside Rendezvous” were wrapped up pppp

By DARREN CHAITMAN

WITH Euroa Little Theatre’s three performances of “Seaside Rendezvous” wrapped up over the weekend, the theatre group founded in 1956 has closed the chapter on another successful production.

The Euroa Gazette, in attendance on opening night, found itself transported to a British seaside town the 1930s, where a cast of comical characters including petty thieves and a young couple intent on eloping were brought to life by Euroa’s hidden talents.

Catherine Mosely, for instance, known to many as Catherine the Jeweller, was barely recognisable as the pompous Lavender Blossom, mother of attempted eloper Primrose Blossom (Bridget Rowe).

Ms Mosely was one of two adult performers, the other being the play’s writer Susan Bennett, who played Mrs Sterling – a Titanic survivor and the nononsense manager of the Grand Hotel, where all the drama occurred.

The rest of the cast were school-aged students, and while it would be unfair to single out any for their talents, the actors carried the story with enthusiasm and skill, keeping the audience engaged with a variety of acting styles and character performances.

The creative sets, costumes, make-up and props were an indication of more hidden talent behind the scenes.

The Gazette particularly enjoyed the work of lighting and sound manager Malcolm McLaine – a member of the theatre group for over 50 years – who introduced the show and announced the intermission with an authoritative narrator’s voice.

Other community members also pitched in, like parents Brendan Rowe and Carl Leech who manned the door and sold tickets on opening night, and Ms Moseley’s sister Liz Dove, who sold homemade baked goods during the intermission including orange and poppyseed cake, carrot cake, gluten free chocolate cake (made by Ms Mosely) and chocolate chip cookies.

About 40 people were in attendance on opening night, and

according to the play’s director and Euroa Little Theatre president Alison Hayes, that number only grew for the remaining two performances.

About 50 attended on Saturday night and about 70 attended for the final performance on Sunday afternoon.

“We had chairs everywhere because there were so many people, so clearly the matinee’s the favourite,” Ms Hayes said of the closing performance.

She said she was proud of the performers, who did “such a great job”.

“They all said they had a really good time and ‘what are we doing next year?’”, she said.

“And I’m like, ‘let’s just finish this year first, and then we’ll worry about the next one.’”

Ms Hayes said herself and Ms Bennett have some ideas for future plays, but in the meantime, her message to readers is to reach out and get involved.

“Get in touch with us, we’re always happy to have anyone involved in any way – if they want to do on stage, backstage, just want to come along and watch, we’re totally open to everyone being involved,” she said.

Alison

is Toby Mosely.

Hayes (left), Matilda Leech, Bridget Rowe and Alina Lester. Seated

THIEVES FIND HANDY WORK: New waiters, played by Beryl Farrell (left) and Tyler Kipping, get a stern talking to by the manager, played by Susan Bennett.

REUNITED: Lavender Blossom (Catherine Mosely, middle) is reunited with her long-lost family. Pictured with Sonny Lester (left) and Angus Rowe (right).

PHOTOS: Dale Mann

PHOTOS:

Haines to visit Euroa in campaign for “yes” vote

INDEPENDENT Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines will host a Voice to Parliament and referendum information and discussion session in Euroa this Sunday.

Dr Haines supports the Voice to Parliament and is campaigning for a “yes” vote in the referendum.

Joining Dr Haines on the panel will be constitutional expert and University of Canberra law professor Kim Rubenstein, as well as Wiradjuri academic and ANU research fellow in Indigenous Diplomacy James Blackwell.

They will share their knowledge and views about the Uluru Statement from the Heart, the Voice to Parliament, and Australia’s history of constitutional reform.

“I have many conversations across Indi about the forthcoming referendum,” Dr Haines said.

“I’m curious about what people have to say and I’m keen to discuss their questions with them.

“It is necessary that every voter has access to credible, truthful information so they can make an informed choice about how to vote.

Avenel’s Jubilee Park playspace gets an upgrade

Mayor, schoolkids and Avenel community celebrate upgraded y,ypgpygplayground

By ANNE DOUGLAS

A COLD and wintry day did not deter Avenel community celebrating the equipment upgrade and new shade sails to create an exciting play space in Avenel Jubilee Park.

It was made special by having Elder Uncle Shane explain and conduct a smoking ceremony as part of the official proceedings to open the play space.

The trying on of the possum skin

cloak was a great addition for everyone, especially the young leaders from Avenel Primary School.

Mayor Laura Binks, myself representing Avenel Jubilee Park and Avenel Active, and the two school captains from Avenel PS, Camilla Bull and Koby Sidebottom, spoke on the day.

We acknowledged the wonderful collaboration between the council, DEECA, Avenel Jubilee Park committee, Avenel Active, the kinder, the primary school and the

local community for input on what equipment they wanted.

Funding was received from the Victorian Government through the Department of Health Community Shade Sails Program for the installation of the shade sails at the children’s playground.

This has taken a number of years to achieve but it was well worth all the effort.

Working together for a common goal is the key.

The proceedings finished with

Euroa Goods Shed set for removal

THE Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) has fenced off the Euroa Goods Shed (pictured) and announced the shed “must be removed” following safety concerns.

“The precaution is necessary for the safety of the community, the rail corridor and our workers,” an ARTC spokesperson said.

“It follows the advice of an independent structural engineering report commissioned by ARTC which found the disused shed is unsafe, at risk of collapsing and must be removed.

“ARTC recognises the value of the building to the local community, and we

will be working with them to consider future options for the rail precinct.”

The shed was fenced off on Monday by ARTC workers.

But EuroaConnect, a community group advocating for a railway precinct that will enhance the area surrounding the Euroa Railway Station, is opposed to the removal of the shed, arguing it is a piece of the town’s heritage that

should be preserved.

“It appears the ARTC is intent on demolishing the shed,” EuroaConnect member Jim Shovelton told The Euroa Gazette.

“EuroaConnect believes this is an integral part of the precinct development and we oppose it.

“It’s an asset the community can use, it’s been integral to our concept of what should happen in the precinct and we will oppose it.

“Again, there’s been this complete lack of consultation and we would like to see the engineer’s report.

“It’s a piece of heritage that shouldn’t be lost just because the ARTC says it should.”

Mayor Binks and school children sliding down the slide through a colourful banner to officially open the play space, followed by cupcake decorating provided kindly by Shire staff and a free sausage sizzle provided by the Avenel Jubilee Park committee.

The play space is already attracting young people of all ages in large numbers since the upgrade, and people are commenting on how great it is for our town and young community.

“Referendums do not happen very often, and it’s crucial that every voter understands what voting yes will mean and what voting no will mean. “

Professor Rubenstein will discuss how changes to the Australian Constitution have allowed for a better reflection of contemporary Australia, in her view, as well as what the proposal for the upcoming referendum is seeking to achieve.

Mr Blackwell will share his experience of the process behind the drafting of the Uluru Statement and what the three pillars Voice, Treaty, and Truth mean in relation to the referendum.

The session will run on Sunday, August 20 from 2.30pm to 4pm at Oaks and Acorns, 14 Clifton Street, Euroa.

CUPCAKE O’CLOCK: Ollie Hogan decorating a cupcake.

POSSUM SKIN CLOAK: Frankie Eagles with Uncle Shane Monk trying on the possum skin cloak.

UPSIDE DOWN CASPAR: Caspar Leunig enjoying the monkey bars.

Strathbogie Shire Council

Church Services

ANGLICAN CHURCH

Sunday 20th August

8am St Andrew’s Longwood

9.15am St Paul’s Euroa

Wednesday 25rd August

10am Eucharist St Paul’s Euroa

Enq: 5704 0330

www.anglicaneuroa.org.au

All welcome

BAPTIST CHURCH

31 Kennedy Street, Euroa

Sunday August 20th, 10am

Tuesday: 9.30am Prayer, 10.30am Bible Study.

Listen to Vision Radio 88.4 FM

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST

Services at Kelvin View Hall

Sunday August 20th

10.30am Morning Worship

Everyone welcome

Pastor: Murray Broughton 5795 1950

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Balmattum

Every Sunday 3pm Worship

Enq: Rev. Stephen McDonald 5762 6275

Yea Presbyterian Church, 9am St Andrew’s Seymour, 11.15am Nagambie inquiries to: Bonnie

Purbrick 5794 2544 or Bill Day 5794 2070

CATHOLIC CHURCH

St John’s, Euroa

Friday 12.30pm Mass

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

St Malachy’s, Nagambie

Monday 10.30am Rosary

Wednesday 12.30pm Mass

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

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

Sunday of the month at 9am

St Attracta’s, Violet Town

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

Mass on the 5th Sunday at 10am

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

St Mary’s, Avenel

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

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

Sunday of the month at11am.

St Patrick’s, Longwood

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

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

Sunday of the month at 9am

Enquiries: Fr Tony Hill 5795 3048

UNITING CHURCH

St Andrew’s, Euroa

Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am

Everyone Welcome

Enq: Robyn Burke 5795 3103

Judi Ward 0437 686 072

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

Enq: Joan Wood 5790 5297

St Andrew’s Violet Town

Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am

All welcome

Enq: John Dunn 0419 362 866

EUROA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

Old School House, Clifton St Euroa

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

Enquiries: Aaron 0493 101 663

Straight shooter Jemma Hunter aims high

Euroa Secondary student has American basketball scholarship in sight E S d y d h A i b k b ll h l hip i igh

By LYNNDA HEARD

FINDING a balance between professional sport and school as a young person can be tricky, but 16 year-old Jemma Hunter is steering herself through sport and study with single minded determination to achieve the highest of levels in both areas.

After meeting and talking with her it is not hard to believe that she will succeed, as she shows strength of character, mind and in her ability to focus.

Currently attending Euroa Secondary College, Jemma’s main goal for her future is to gain a sports scholarship and attend college in America, specifically UCLA.

As much as Jemma loves school, it is in basketball that her true passion lies and where her skill and her height (194cm) shine.

Her recent successes have reinforced her focus on her future in basketball, and Jemma is now playing for the division one under 18 girls Bendigo basketball team, the Braves.

The Braves are in the highest division of the Victorian Championship made up of the top ten teams in Victoria.

The Bendigo association also has a Big V youth championships team, which allows girls from 1523 years old to compete and Jemma is also a part of this team.

It has taken her playing 20 games over this season to reach her present level which involved Jemma and her parents travelling all over Victoria for her and the Braves to make the finals.

“Basketball is my one and only sport and I have been playing since I was about 10,” Jemma explained.

“It is my passion”.

Jemma and her family, sister Jasmine, dad Simon and mum Heather, live in Euroa.

Dad is the manager of a local racehorse spelling (resting) complex and Jasmine works in marketing for the stable and helps her father with the horses.

Jasmine also plays for the Braves.

“I am where I want to be, here in Euroa,” Jemma said.

“It’s a great place to live, the people are nice, but it can feel a bit remote sometimes.”

Older sister Jasmine also plays basketball with the Braves.

“It’s great playing with her, we are very close,” Jemma assures.

At Euroa Secondary College Jemma is completing year 11, and according to her, “I am definitely completing year 12 so I can get a scholarship to a division 1 American college for top athletes.”

“I have to film all my games and include a highlights reel for them to watch, then they see if you are suited to their college, and if they like you, then it’s come on over,” she said.

Academically, Jemma is very comfortable and enjoys Euroa Secondary College where her subjects include English, science and maths.

Ms Nicolls is one of her favourite teachers.

Jemma is a veracious reader of books across all genres and has a friend in the school librarian, Ms Creek, who is more than happy to ensure that there is a diverse mixture of books available to Jemma to borrow.

“Presently I am reading ‘The Greatest Thing’ by Sarah Winifred Searle,” says Jemma.

Recently, Jemma completed the Premier’s Reading Challenge where she read 20 books in a month.

Outside of school Jemma is

just as focused.

“If I am not playing basketball or reading, I am training and working out to get better at the game,” she said.

When asked what position she plays she replies with a grin.

“I hate this question,” she said.

“Because I am tall, I am always placed in the ‘5 man’ position, where the tallest player is positioned in the key near the basket.

“The key plays around the basket.

“In the future I would like to be the person handling the ball.”

The quiet strength of Jemma is evident in the way she carries herself and the confidence she has in her abilities, academically and athletically.

It will be wonderful to see her play in an American team and know that she has a book to read in her kit bag when she needs to relax.

VORACIOUS READER: Jemma is a veracious reader of books across all genres and has a friend in the ESC librarian, Lyarna Creek (right), who is more than happy to ensure that there is a diverse mixture of books available to Jemma to borrow.

PHOTO: Lynnda Heard

SISTERS AND TEAMMATES: Jemma’s older sister Jasmine also plays basketball with the Braves. “It’s great playing with her, we are very close,” Jemma assures.

STRAIGHT SHOOTER: Jemma Hunter, 194cm tall and 16 years old, is now playing for the Division 1 Under 18 girls Bendigo basketball team, the Braves. After school, she wants to get a scholarship to a division 1 American college for top athletes.

Soil carbon explained in new eLearning module

AGRICULTURE Victoria has developed a soil carbon eLearning module for anyone seeking to better understand soil carbon, its role and function in agriculture.

Agriculture Victoria climate change service development officer Heather Field said over recent decades farmers have been actively working towards conserving and increasing soil carbon and reducing soil carbon losses by improved farm management practices.

“Soil carbon is critical for soil health, improving productivity, profitability and resilience.

“While soil carbon is easy to lose, and challenging to increase, it’s important to remember that maintaining your soil carbon levels while producing food and fibre is a great outcome,” Ms Field said.

“This easily accessible soil carbon eLearning module will help participants to have a deeper knowledge and tenable sound decisions for their operation.”

The introduction to soil carbon eLearning module covers soil health benefits of soil carbon; the difference between soil carbon and soil organic matter; the influence of soil type, climate and land management on soil carbon stocks; the impacts of agriculture practices on soil carbon; and where to go for further information and resources.

The module, “Introduction to soil carbon”, is available now from the Agriculture Victoria website.

Local anglers score free fishing festival

LOCAL and visiting recreational fishers across the region will mark the opening of trout season at the free Goulburn Fishing Festival on Saturday, September 2.

Minister for Outdoor Recreation Sonya Kilkenny recently announced the annual free festival will celebrate all that fishing in the Goulburn region has to offer, with free festival activities offering something for every angler no matter their experience level.

Some 1500 giant rainbow trout have also been stocked across 10 stocking sites between Eildon and Molesworth, with an extra 500 fish stocked at the Eildon Pondage.

Located at Lions Park on Riverside Drive in Eildon, the festival features free activities for the whole family.

A free fishing clinic will teach the next generation of anglers how to

cast, bait up and net a fish, with free bait and tackle provided and experienced instructors on hand.

Bookings are essential.

Fly casting lessons will also be on offer from the Australian Trout Foundation, giving more experienced fishers the opportunity to take their skills to the next level.

There will also be face painting, plaster arts painting, market stalls, prizes and raffles, with fireworks over the pondage at 7pm.

Fisheries officers and Better Boating staff will be on deck to answer questions from anglers no-matter their experience level.

Tours of the VFA’s popular Snobs Creek hatchery will be on offer for the community to see first-hand how millions of trout and native fish are grown annually for the statewide stocking program.

Grants open for wine and cider producers

APPLICATIONS for the fifth round of the Wine Tourism and Cellar Door grants program for wine and cider producers close on September 30.

The program provides funding of up to $100,000 to wineries and cellar door operators who grow and promote agri-tourism, largely in regional Australia.

Assistant secretary for Food Policy Paul Denny said Australian wine producers continue to demonstrate the success of locally grown and manufactured products.

“Our wine is some of the most sought after in the

world and makes a significant contribution to our economy and regional Australia’s agricultural industry,” Mr Denny said.

“While it has been a tough few years for some parts of Australia’s wine industry, our winemakers and cellar door operators are highly resilient.

“Providing support to our wine industry will continue to help the local economy and agriculture.”

To apply for the grant and for more information on the program, visit: https://www. wineaustralia.com/winetourism-and-cellar-door-grants.

Youngsters will also be able to help with trout releases into the Eildon Pondage on the day.

“This festival will encourage more people to Eildon, the Goulburn River and surrounds and makes for a great day out – giving families and kids the chance to try

fishing and learn from experts,” Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said.

All lakes, including Lake Eildon and Eildon Pondage, are open to trout fishing year-round.

For more information visit vfa. vic.gov.au/goulburnfishfest.

September

FISHING FESTIVAL: Mark the opening of trout season at the free Goulburn Fishing Festival in Eildon on Saturday, September 2.

ACROSS

4 What is a period of sixty seconds (6)

7 To engage in a minor but noisy quarrel, is to do what (8)

8 Name the psychic and emotional energy associated with instinctive biological drives (6)

9 What is a gem cut into the form of a narrow rectangle (8)

11 When one divulges or discloses, one does what (7)

13 Name another term for lucerne (7)

15 What might we call a through train (7)

17 Name an alternative term for a hermit (7)

20 Who is between 13 and 19 years of age (8)

23 What is a strong regional accent (6)

24 Which hour is the latest possible time (8)

25 To be dormant, is to be what (6)

DOWN

1 Which combining form indicates water (4)

2 What is an empty space or missing part, especially in an ancient manuscript (6)

3 To touch at one end or side, is to do what (4)

4 What is a confused, hand-to-hand fight (5)

5 To be loftier and more exalted in character, is to be what (6)

6 Which term relates to the rise and fall of the ocean (5)

9 Which open glass cylinder is used as a standard laboratory container (6)

10 What might we call a learner (7)

12 What is a concealed marksman (6)

14 Name a highly infectious, usually fatal, epidemic disease (6)

E-QUATIONS

Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD QUICK THINK

16 What do we call a weighing machine (6)

18 Name the British peers next in rank above a viscount (5)

19 To be precipitous, is to be what (5)

21 What is a large widemouthed pitcher or jug (4)

22 When one consumes food, one does what (4)

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.

WHICH WORDS

1 ARGENT

a) Potter’s clay

b) Silver

c) One of the essential amino acids

2 COBOL

a) The sergeant fish

b) A computer programming language

c) A thin fabric of worsted with cotton or silk

BIYWORD

Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.

CLUES:

AFL: six-pointers (5)

Attics (5)

Calm (5)

Common household fuel (3)

Meadow (3)

Patterned pastries (7)

Peacocks and peahens (7)

Starter’s second command (3)

Two-up (coll) (3)

Weasel-like carnivore

SOLUTIONS SUDOKU

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

National alcohol-related fatalities reach decade peak

A NEW report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has highlighted the increasing need for action to prevent alcohol related harms and deaths.

According to the report, alcohol-related deaths reached a 10-year peak of 1559 in 2021, an increase of more than seven per cent from 2020.

Alcohol accounted for nearly 57 per cent of drug-related hospitalisations in 2020-21, up

from 53 per cent in 2019-20.

The majority of these were recorded for males.

The report also revealed the number of Australians reaching out to alcohol treatment services is at its highest in a decade.

Alcohol and Drug Foundation chief executive officer

Dr Erin Lalor said alcoholrelated deaths were largely preventable and more needed to be done to address the con-

cerning trend.

“The impact of these deaths is widespread – we must remember these are real people whose lives have been tragically cut short, with families and friends who are suffering,” Dr Lalor said.

“We can’t afford further delay on action to stop these rising numbers.”

Dr Lalor called for greater investments in evidencebased prevention and harm

NAGAMBIE NOTES

with Di Grant

reduction initiatives.

“We also need to see stronger regulations around the availability and promotion of alcohol, which is linked to higher risk drinking,” she said.

“We know that men experience a significant proportion of alcohol harms, and this report highlights the importance of targeted interventions with vulnerable populations, including people with long-term alcohol use problems.”

Red Cross has new board

Barbara Kruse replaces Chris John as chairperson at Euroa branch pp

By PAM CASE

OUR annual general meeting for the Euroa Red Cross branch was held on Thursday, August 3 at St John’s Hall.

Chris Johns welcomed members and guests.

Millicent McNeill of the Shepparton branch took the chair for nominations of the board, which were as follows.

Chairperson: Barbara Kruse; vice chairperson: Annette Cocking; secretary: Pam Case; assistant secretary: Beryl Harris; treasurer: Denise Holt; zone representative: Annette Cocking.

Our guest speaker was Judi Hanlon, team convener for Shepparton Red Cross.

Judi spoke of her role during fire, cold and floods in the Goulburn Valley and other areas.

This was followed by afternoon tea and drawing of a raffle, which went to longstanding member of the Red Cross, Jennifer Penny.

New members are always welcome to our meetings held on the first Thursday of the month at St John’s Hall on Binney Street at 10am.

Or, contact Barb Kruse (0448 801 369) or Pam Case (0417 104 231).

District News

Activities in Avenel

By LYNJ JAMES

CALL in today (August 16) at 1.30pm at Avenel Goulburn Valley and be part of the GVL paper crane making workshops for International Day of Peace (September 21).

All equipment supplied.

Come to the event or make them at home and drop them off to your local library.

Help us reach the target of 1000 origami cranes.

Further information: phone 1300 374 765.

The event is at GVL Library Hub, Queen Street, Jubilee Park.

This Sunday, August 20 at 2pm, students from Seymour College

will debate this topic for our consideration: “Australia Dayshould it be on January 26?”

The debate will be at Avenel Memorial Hall, 15 Queen Street. Have a chat and a cuppa afterwards.

A community survey about the future of Avenel’s Australia Day event will be distributed to all households in the 3664 postcode the following week.

Farewell and best wishes to Jenny and Jeff Moran as they head off to their next adventure to their new home on the Bellarine Peninsula.

They have contributed much in their unique individual ways, to many community projects and organisations in the 11 years they lived in Avenel - many thanks.

Expressions of interest are being sought for Avenel Primary School fete (on Saturday, November 18).

Stall holders must have their own public liability insurance.

Please contact the school office to express interest and further information.

P: 5794 1720

E: stardust2011@bigpond.com

THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK: A smile brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad and it is nature’s best antidote for trouble.

PERSONALS: Birthday greetings go to Emma Verrocchi, Coral Paterson, Chanelle Paulke, Vin Palmer, Lindsay Moore, Sonia Aspinall-Stewart, Haylee Williams, John Green, Grant Hateley, Travis Knights, Marlene Hull, Justin Shiner, Max Nicholson, Joyce White, Belinda Chittenden and Vern Taylor.

45th anniversary wishes go to Neil and Margaret Tingay.

Sympathy goes to the family and friends of Lyn Hore who passed away recently.

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

August 11: Senior citizens annual meeting at 1pm.

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

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

HALLOWEEN PARTY: Advance notice so you can get your costumes ready for this fun, music and games evening proudly sponsored by the Nagambie Lakes Community House.

It will be from 6-8pm at the Mechanics Hall and all ages are welcome.

Entry is $5 a child, $10 maximum for a family.

Let’s see some fabulous costumes like we did last year at the Historical Society’s Halloween activity.

Contact Community House co-ordinator Anna Close for details on weekdays at 5794 1487 or email nlchouse32@gmail.com.

NAGAMBIE PLAYGROUP: Nagambie Playgroup are now based at the Nagambie Lakes Community House on 365 High Street at the old Catholic Presbytery building area.

They meet on Wednesday mornings at 10am.

If weather permits, they utilise the outdoor area, and if inclement they go inside.

For details contact group leader Ana Williams on anawilliamsfdc@hotmail.com or 0447 410 461.

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

September 14: Anglican Mother’s Union annual “Morning Melodies” fundraiser at Christ Church Hall in Seymour.

Funds to be raised will go towards the Mother’s Union for gender based violence, domestic violence and climate change.

Entertainer will be well known local singer Noel Pearson whose specialty is rock and roll, ballads and music suitable for 1960s2000s music lovers.

There will be a trading table, raffle, lucky door prizes and lots of fun.

Bookings will be available soon.

CATHOLIC: ST. MALACHY’S - 150 YEARS: It won’t be long before St Malachy’s Catholic Church in Nagambie is to celebrate its 150th anniversary on November 19.

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

To commemorate this anniversary Rhonda Robinson and Mel Arnold are writing the history of St Malachy’s church and parish.

They would like any information, photos and memorabilia for this project.

They would also like information about St Mary’s Avenel and St Patrick’s Moorilim and especially the history of St. Mary’s at Avenel. These two churches were included in the parish.

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

OUTGOING AND INCOMING: Outgoing chairperson Chris John and incoming chairperson Barbara Kruse.

IN FROM SHEPP: Guest speaker Judi Hanlon (left, team convener for Shepparton Red Cross) and outgoing Euroa Red Cross chairperson Chris John.

Violet Town celebrates a special Christmas in July

By SCONES CARERS GROUP, VIOLET TOWN

LAST month, Violet Town celebrated Christmas in July.

Representatives from this collaboration felt that the local community reliance and wellbeing had become limited within the Violet Town area.

There are various people who still have unmet needs; our community allows for individuals to disengagement and social isolation.

The Christmas in July initiative was born “over a kitchen table” – it was a collaboration between Lifestyle Violet Town Bush Nursing Centre, Provincial Disability Accommodation Services and Advisory Care Support Services, all who assisted the “Scones” Carers Group to meet a need within the Violet Town community.

That need was for “something we all enjoy - a meal and music”, and as it was nearing July, Christmas in July was the ideal theme.

On the day of the event, a valued community bus provided persons not usually able to “get out” with transport.

Over 60 people joined in and experienced a day of Christmas in July festivities with live music, home-cooked meal and gifts for all from Santa.

The event was facilitated by a very supportive group of volunteers.

Violet Town residents’ feedback was positive as it was recognised that they caught up with community friends and were able to feel

included in the broader community.

A great boost to the psychological wellbeing of the residents who attended.

Football and netball grants open

LOCAL football and netball clubs are now able to apply for the 2023-24 Country Football and Netball Program grants.

Grants of up to $250,000 are available to make more sport infrastructure developments possible including court and oval lighting upgrades, changeroom developments and new pavilions for local clubs and communities.

“Local sporting clubs like Longwood Football Netball Club, Seymour Football Netball Club, and Murchison Football Netball Club are just some of the many local organisations that have long been campaigning for much needed upgrades to their facilities,” Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland said.

“Sadly, many of these clubs missed out on crucial funding during this year’s budget announcement, so I encourage all clubs to apply for funding to make sure they can make their upgrades a reality.”

Applications close on October 9. For more information on the program and to apply, visit https://sport.vic.gov. au/grants-and-funding/ourgrants/country-football-andnetball-program.

CHRISTMAS CHEER: (Above)

Volunteer Kate Atkin and Santa Claus.

Sports Writer/Journalist Part-time

The Euroa Gazette

North East Media

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Under 13s trumph over Grammar SPORT

EUROA JUNIOR NETBALL UNDER 9 vs Grahamvale

By JASON TIMPERLEY

ON a cold and wet day in Shepparton, the girls started strong with Matilda scoring the first goal inside third minute, quickly followed by a second goal.

Scarlett and Eden worked hard to assist in the goal third.

Some excellent feeds into the goals saw the girls continue to put the scores on the board finishing the first quarter with seven goals.

Second quarter saw some great passages with Lily and Ella working well through the mid court together.

Georgia was on her game with some major intercepts turning over possession and claiming a goal.

Play slowed a little in the third with several attempts at scoring without putting any goals on the board.

Paige and Holly worked well through the mid court while Georgia and Matilda worked well in defence overturning the ball and keeping Grahamvale scoreless.

The wet ball made for a slippery game with many passes escaping the girls hands.

Eventually in the final minutes of the game Paige scored the final goal.

Finishing, with a 10-1 score going Euroa’s way.

This week’s awards went to Ella and Scarlett.

UNDER 9 vs Grahamvale Garnets

By ANNA SLOANE

THE under 9 team’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring.

With only one more game left to conclude their first netball season, their progress and determination have been truly remarkable.

Week after week, their game play has evolved, showcasing their unwavering commitment to improvement.

From the outset, the team exhibited a remarkable start, fuelled by their extraordinary teamwork and individual talents.

Lily holding the position of goal shooter and Matilda skilfully commanding as goal attack displaying exceptional shooting prowess, resulting in an impressive seven to xero lead by the first quarter.

Assisting their efforts was Eden as wing attack, Scarlett at centre, Paige as wing defence, Ella playing goal defence and Holley guarding the goal keeper position.

As the match unfolded the Grahamvale Garnets mounted a strong counterattack leading to scoreless second and third quarters for Euroa.

However, the Euroa team’s unwavering determination paid dividends in the final quarter as they surged ahead further bolstering their lead.

Particularly notable was Georgia’s outstanding defensive contributions, a key fac-

tor in the team’s success.

Reflecting on the journey of this season the girls have every reason to be proud.

They’ve come an extraordinary distance evolving into a closely-knit unit that consistently delivers exceptional performances on the court.

As they gear up for their final game, they have not only showcased their growth but also established their ability to adapt and excel.

Award Winners- Ella Kelly and Scarlett Hamill.

Final Score- Euroa 9- Grahamvale 2.

UNDER 11 WHITE vs Bourchier Street

By JASON TIMPERLEY

THE Euroa girls enjoyed their best performance of the season getting out to a hot start against Bourchier Street with early goals by Chloe Squires and Zoe Holden.

Lillian Halsall took a couple of great intercepts and showed improved confidence and was involved in several forays into attack.

Zoe Holden particularly was shooting accurately netting seven goals for the first half and she was ably supported by Leila Thompson (three) and Chloe Squires (two) as the Magpies established a 12-0 lead at half time.

The second half was more of a defensive struggle with Olivia Kelly breaking up numerous Bourchier Street attacks to hold them scoreless for the game.

Ella Torr chipped in with three more goals for the second half and Lillian Halsall’s goal made it a 16-0 victory for the Magpies.

This was the girls final game of the season and a special mention to all of those that assisted throughout the season namely Vicki Houston, Jaime Hamill, Chelsea Sessions and team manager Ebani Harvey who held everything together.

UNDER 13 v GVGS

By CAROLINE KEENAN

IT was another convincing win for the Euroa 13 and under side against Goulburn Valley Grammar school (GVGS) on Saturday.

After a shaky start by the Magpies where Euroa led three goals going into the first break, the girls settled into a rhythm in the second term to take a handy eight goal lead into half time.

Grace McKellar and Zahara Johns combined well again under the post with Zahara having a blistering third term where she piled on eight goals.

Wing defence Heidi Taresch produced her best performance to date and got her hands on plenty of the ball while centre Maisy Wilson worked hard across the court.

Willow Timperley playing wing attack produced a number of important turnovers and Ella Kearns put in

another quality four-quarter performance.

Ellie Robinson and Shelby Baker were rock-solid in sharing goal keeping duties with Ellie making good use of her height advantage.

The Magpies play their last match of the season on Saturday before the finals.

Awards on the day went to Grace McKellar (GS) and Ellie Robinson (GK).

Final score Euroa 31 to GVGS 20.

UNDER 13 vs Tatura Cyclones

By TRACEY JOHNSTON

EUROA Magpies White under 13s team stood up in wet conditions against the Tatura Cyclones.

First quarter saw Grace Burden shoot the first goal.

Charlotte Burden showed great defence, multiple times and scoring multiple goals.

Ivy Burden and Mia Holmes made great passes and achieving fast touches, getting the ball down the court.

Second quarter as the rain set in made no distraction for the girls.

Brilliant team work from the Burden girl’s getting the ball down to the court like clockwork. Charlotte scored multiple goals and Charlotte continues to display great camaraderie.

Grace was fierce in defences.

Ivy diligently adhered to the rules, watching everyone’s footwork and knowing exactly where the ball was at all times.

Audrey Anderson made fast passes and balanced pivoting defences helping push the ball away from the

Tatura cyclones.

Brianna Maher and Bridie Simpson made some epic choices showing strong team work, stopping goals and getting the ball down the court.

Bridie defending energetically and her passing to Mia concreted excellent team work again.

Third quarter saw some serious air time with Bridie’s big defending leaps.

Grace popped two goals in 60 seconds, Mia’s passes to Audrey maintained their dominance in defences keeping the ball down Euroa’s end.

Ivy threw some great tactical passes.

Final quarter saw the Euroa girls zoning in and hungry for the win.

Mia and Bridie making super passes, which gave

golden opportunities for Charlotte to shoot a goal.

Brianna had her eyes locked onto her defences to stop Tatura getting anymore goals, the Euroa girls managed to win by one goal at the final whistle.

Euroa 11 to Tatua 10.

The team partnership developed throughout the season has continued to strengthen weekly, all players have supported each other’s court efforts.

The girl’s improvement is proof of coach Jodie’s continued support, training and drive to see the girls happy from their success.

Awards were accepted by Bridie Simpson and Ivy Burden.

EUROA JUNIOR FOOTBALL Euroa under 12s vs Shepparton Notre Bears

By CHRIS MACDERMID

EUROA under 12s played at memorial on Saturday against Shepparton Notre Bears.

The Euroa side were boosted with the inclusion of Darby Hoare from his successful week representing Victoria.

The boys started well with the ball in our forward line for most of the quarter.

Shepparton came out in the second quarter to level the scores.

After half time Euroa started to play the footy on there terms with Darby, Blake, and Ty combining together to put some score board pressure.

Euroa had a comprehensive win against Shepparton.

This is our last game for the season and would like to thank all parents, supporters and sponsors for their efforts this season .

CLOSE CALL : Maisy Wilson attempts to keep the ball inbounds.

WINNERS ARE GRINNERS : Awards on the day went to Grace McKellar and Ellie Robinson. PHOTOS: Caroline Keenan

SPORT

Tight match-ups as Euroa junior basketball season kicks off

By CARRIE DONALDSON

LAST Tuesday night marked the start of the Term 3 junior basketball domestic season.

This season three games are played each Tuesday night at the Euroa Multipurpose Stadium with the juniors commencing at 6pm and the intermediates at 7pm.

Junior mixed U12 – U14

Bull vs Nets

A tight scoring match to kick off the season with an evenly match line up between the Bulls and Nets.

Highlights include Taylor Hamill (Nets) on 11 points, Frankie Eagles (Nets), Conrad Brown (Nets) and Parker Jeffery (Bulls) each scoring

10 points.

Special mentions to Paige Enright (Bulls), Jethro Dolphin (Bulls) and Matilda Clayton (Nets).

Final score: Bulls 30, Nets

33 Spurs vs Wolves

Many first time players took to the court for the Spurs vs Wolves match.

Griffin Boote (Spurs) the top scorer for the match on 9 points and Will Mann (Wolves) on 5 points.

It was great to see family groups including the Eagles, Boote and Mann families.

Final score: Spurs 13, Wolves 22

Intermediate U16- U18

Mixed Celtics vs Lakers

The opening round was a close match with the lead swinging back and forth throughout the game and strong point scoring across both teams.

Seven players scored over 10 points each with Macey

Watson (Lakers) finishing as the highest scorer on 26 points, and Murdoch Smith (Celtics) having a strong game with 18 points.

Bryse Ashcroft also impressed scoring a hat trick of three pointers.

Final score: Celtics 68, Lakers 62

Interested in playing basketball?

Registrations remain open until the end of August.

The Winter Domestic Season will continue through Term 3 with the longer Summer Domestic season commencing at the start of Term 4 and continue through until March at the end of Term 1.

The Representative Teams are close to being finalised and training has commenced in the lead up to our first tournament in Echuca at the end of September.

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

ROUND RESULTS:

NORTH East

Bushrangers

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

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

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

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

U14 Boys 1 46 def by Bellarine 1 58

(Top scorers: Keoni Anderson 21, Harris Kain 15, Connah Hart 5)

U14 Boys 2 43 def by Whittlesea 3 53

(Top Scorers: Joseph Milton 17, Cruz McAuliffe 5, Brock Buckland 4)

U14 Girls 1 31 def by Craigieburn 1 33

(Top Scorers: Ella Mercieca 15, Lily Purss 11, Maisy Moscrop 3)

U14 Girls 2 24 def by Diamond Valley 4 34

(Top Scorers: Maria Hanley 8, Ruby Pickles 6, Winnie Heffernan 4)

U16 Boys 1 66 def Knox 2 33

(Top Scorers: Cooper Clark 19, Connor Breheny 18, Charlie Maher 10)

U16 Boys 2 47 def Altona 3 46

(Top Scorers: Sam Kain 13, Seth Graham 7, Mateo Hanley 7)

U16 Girls 1 49 def Frankston 2 41

(Top Scorers: Lily-Anne McClure 11, Molly Moylan 11, Mekenzie Wood 9)

U16 Girls 2 31 def Keilor 4 30

(Top Scorers: Sienna Sampson 6, Sophia Kotzur 5, Amelia Frazer 5)

U18 Boys 1 62 def Frankston 1 31

(Top Scorers: Lochie Harvey 18, Coen Ainsworth 10, Caleb Wharepapa 10)

U18 Boys 2 65 def Broadmeadows 2 39

(Top Scorers: Zach Schluter 17, Cam Cooper 16, Jac Green 7)

U18 Girls 43 drew Sandringham 2 43

(Top Scorers: Jess Freeman 14, Niamh Moylan 8, Milly Evans 7)

FINAL GAME OF JUNIORS

WALKING THE BALL: (RIGHT) Jackson Walker splits the defence on his way to the basket.

GOING FOR IT: (TOP) Conrad Brown puts up a contested shot over Eleck Sibanda.

PHOTOS: Matt Green

GOLF NAGAMBIE GOLF CLUB

By DAVID LOVE

A SMALL turnout for the rescheduled Stableford event at Nagambie on Saturday saw Phil Hageman claiming his third victory for the year so far, last month’s monthly medal winner and the 2023 B grade champion Hageman was too strong for the reduced field winning the count back on 31 Stableford points.

Unlucky second went to Graham Keogh battling away through the light rain in the early part of the morning to also finish on 31 points

Only one nearest to the pin was recorded and that went to Gary Bow on the 16th with a well-judged strike hitting the heart of the green.

As for representative golf the Nagambie pennant team where away at the Tatura Hilltop golf club taking on Tocumwal in their final fixture for the season.

Nagambie were gallant in defeat going down two and three, it has been a disappointing season overall with the team now too far down the ladder to make finals.

Next week’s golf at

Nagambie will be a Stableford event returning to the Sunday morning time, meeting at 9am for a 9.30am hit off with D. Love on office duty and C. Roberts in the bar.

EUROA GOLF CLUB

By RICHARD JOHNSON

ONLY 11 millimeters of rain fell on the course this week, but it fell at the wrong time for the Euroa Golfers.

Good fields ventured out Wednesday, but only a dozen players were available for the Saturday competition.

Heavy underfoot and light showers overhead didn’t put off new member Kynan Pell who saluted for his first ever win with 39 points.

Pete McMahon and Cam Roper both also handled the conditions well with 37 points.

Only one nearest to the pin went off with Cam Roper on the 18th who got the drive and pitch perfect, on 11th

Pete McMahon took out the drive and pitch and on the forth and 16th, Mick Langlands claimed the seventh.

In the Wednesday ladies competition, Levena Redfern was the best of the 13 players in the 18 hole com-

petition while Donella Currie won the nine hole event.

Next Saturday is another round of the Castle Creek team event played as a Stableford round which is a Pink Ribbon Day fundraiser for breast cancer.

Hopefully the weather shines on the course and the event.

Round two of the Lindsay Park match play events are due to be completed by the end of the month.

The tree lopping program has been deferred until the conditions are more favourable, whilst the club prepares for the Power Industries Association of Australia three day event to be played October 20 - 22.

The event was rescheduled after last year’s floods and will be a massive event for the club and the town.

AVENEL GOLF CLUB

By LYN CARRACHER

SATURDAY turned out to be a great day for golf, no wind or rain during play and the course is looking magnificent after hard work from our volunteers.

It was the second round of the club championships and some very handy scores were made.

The prez Dale Smith wound back the clock on the back nine carding 37 to storm home and win the days event with a fabulous 66 nett.

Danny Neville can think himself unlucky, finishing a stroke behind with an equally fabulous 67 nett and will no doubt be rueing a three putt triple bogey on the 10th.

Jetlagged Jed Smith returned from his UK tour with a handy 73 net to claim a ball, Scoota rebounded after last week’s 86 to claim one as well with 76 net.

Nearest to the pin winners on the fifth Lyn Carracher, 14th Scoota Donovan, 18th Lance Carracher. Drive and Pitch on the 17th went to Jed.

The club championship standings are tight in all grades.

In the best one of two rounds Campbell Smith, Scoota Donovan and Jed Smith all tied on 79, Dale Smith finished on 82 and Daniel Neville on 83 not far behind.

The Bernie Stevens trophy has Campbell ahead of Dale and Danny.

C grade has Bill Eddy ahead of Rayden Hannigan.

The Captain’s trophy which is best net score has Campbell and Dale Smith all tied on 66 with Danny Neville one shot back.

Dale topped off his great day by pulling his own name out of the tin to win the $100 meat tray donated by Avenel Meats.

We had a team attend the Dalhousie District Golf Association Bowl on Sunday but despite having a good day the only success was Campbell Smith getting nearest to the pin.

The club was also well represented at the Dargalong Cup at Murchison on Sunday with seven players attending.

Hudson and Shane Black had a great day with plus seven but was two shots off the winning score.

Next week is our annual tournament and we welcome visitors from clubs near and far to attend what promises to be a great event with terrific prizes on offer.

The Pioneer Park 4BBB for women and men is on Saturday, the men’s 18 hole Championship is on Sunday.

There will be $150 vouchers in all grades for first place, $500 for an eagle on

any par four or five which will be shared if there’s more than one and the Mitsubishi ASX GS courtesy of Beer Auto group Seymour for the first player to score a hole in one on the fifth hole Sunday only.

Please get your entries in to Jed Smith on 0407 546 917 or Lyn Carracher 0427 985 268 as soon as possible.

NAGAMBIE GOLF By KARYN THOMSON

WE had nine players for a round of stroke.

The winner of A & B grades was Monica Hurley 105/30/75net.

The winner of C grade was Kylie Carmichael 119/37/82net.

The nine hole winner was Irene Keogh 46/9/37net

N/P on the third was Monica and on the 16th Irene. Balls down the line for 18 holes went to Monica 75net and Irene 76net.

Balls down the line for 9 holes went to Irene on a C/B from Monica 37net.

Results Thursday August 10:

We had 18 players for a Par round. The winner was Shaun Bryant +1. N/P on the 13th was Terry Clonan.

Ford hits takes out champs on debut

EUROA CLAY TARGET CLUB

By JOHN KING

THE Euroa Clay Target Club welcomed former Corowa member Brett Ford who has transferred to the club.

He promptly won both championships during Sundays competition.

The point score championship is held in memory of Keith McKendrick, a long time and valued member of the Euroa Club.

Keith was the clubs coach for many years and conducted firearm safety courses through the Euroa Secondary College benefiting many hundreds of students to improve their knowledge about safe handling of firearms.

Keith’s son Paul sponsored this event for which the club is grateful for.

Brett Ford shot 72/75 for an outright win in the event.

Brett had to work much harder in the single barrel championship as Cohuna’s Carl Comensoli and Euroa’s Scott Towers qualified on 23/25.

In the following final shoot off, Brett had to shoot 19 targets straight to see off his challengers.

Full Results

25t “Keith McKendrick (The Coach) Memorial P/S Championship

1st AA Grade & O/A B.Ford (Euroa) 72/75

2nd AA Grade

C.Comensoli (Cohuna) 68/75

1st A Grade G.McClure (Alexandra) 71/75

2nd A Grade

M.McLachlan (Mansfield) 66/75

1st B Grade L.Fitzpatrick (Euroa) 69/75

2nd B Grade L.Comensoli (Walmer) 71/79

1st C Grade S.Makin (Euroa) 63/75

2nd C Grade L.Tonks (Euroa) 62/75

25t Boho Single Barrel Championship

1st AA Grade & O/A B.Ford (Euroa) 42/44

2nd AA Grade C. Comensoli (Cohuna) 40/43

1st A Grade S.Towers (Euroa) 41/44

2nd A Grade M.McLachlan (Mansfield) 23/26

1st B Grade D.Luelf (Mansfield) 22/25

2nd B Grade J .King (Euroa) 21/25

1st C Grade N.Tuck (Euroa) 19/25

2nd C Grade L.Tonks (Euroa) 23/30

20pr D/Rise Graded

Sweepstake

1st AA Grade

A.Rohrlach (Euroa) 32/40

1st A Grade B.Ford (Euroa) 37/50

2nd A Grade

C.Comensoli Coh una) 35/50

1st B Grade G.F acer (Kingaroy) 28/40

2nd B Grade

C.Repacholi (Bendigo)

26/40

1st C Grade

P.McKendrick (Euroa) 30/40

2nd C Grade

G.McClure (Alexandra) 29/40

The next competition includes Alexandra club’s Old Trout opening championship and the Highlands Shield which will be held on Sunday, September 10.

SON OF A GUN: Brett Ford accepts the Keith McKendrick memorial award from Paul McKendrick.

ON DEBUT: Brett Ford accepts all round praise from Scott Towers.

A grade netballers’ day out at Rushworth

By IAN SHINER

THE Redleg big winners on the weekend were the A grade netballers with an excellent 43 to 38 win over a very evenly matched Rushworth side.

The experienced and super cool Kylea Sidebottom was awarded best on while the coach’s award went to Kristy Bennett.

Likewise the C graders who continued on their winning way with a very impressive

12-goal win over the Rushy tigers.

The B graders were competitive to the final bell with Keynan Barnes named best on while the determined defender and ace interceptor Serena Bleckwehl won the coach’s award.

The 17s held their own against strong opposition with best on going to the versatile competitor Holly Bender and coach’s to Kady Francis-Smith.

In the 15s the club best on went to the never beaten dynamo Willow Harper who was well supported by Allira Nichols and the hungriest award winner the persistent Lillian Kilroy.

As always our 13s tried their hardest.

Thank you to Rushworth for helping out with numbers.

Well done to coach’s award winner, defender and strong voiced Mia Kearney.

On Saturday the Redleg

under 14’s footballers took a while to settle against the bigger, stronger Rushworth opponents but found the goals later in the game through Blake Carson and Billy Wilson.

Our big ruck man Wade Morgan always a competitor while Angus Thompson and Billy Wilson were very strong in defense.

It was a tough job for the 18s footballers to front up on a Sunday morning at Violet

Mansfield Red conquers in rival tennis weekend

Exhausted players truly deserved their cuppa and lunch pyypp

WINTER TENNIS

By RHONDA CARPENTER

MANSFIELD Red hosted Mansfield Black in warm sunny weather on Monday last week.

Encouraged by teammates supporting from the sidelines, Red team began strongly.

Red’s Karyn Fraser and Carolyn Murray won their opener 8-4 while Jo O’Brien and Deb McCormack took theirs 8-5.

The contest tightened up in the remaining sets as Black’s Liza Karras, Rhonda Carpenter, Jenny Smith and Di Bergelin worked hard to counter Red’s clever court craft

Two tiebreakers were played, and Red took the other two sets 8-6.

After players noticed and resolved a scoring miscalculation Liza and Di were delighted to take the final tiebreak set.

With much excitement Red went on to win 5/47 to 1/36 after a lengthy battle for their first win of the season.

Benalla hosted Terip in an equally close encounter.

Benalla’s Bev Gill, Claire Sharp, and Maureen Jewell were joined by Euroa’s Julie Harrington.

Terip’s Cindy Hayes and Frances Lawrence won their opener 8-6 while Phoebe McDermid and Jenny Martin fell 4-8 to the home side.

Sets were again split in lengthy battles of excellent tennis.

The result was determined by the final sets and Benalla won both to claim the match 4/44 to 2/33.

The exhausted players truly deserved their cuppa and lunch.

For the other two matches Euroa won on forfeit against Seven Creeks and

Moglonemby won on forfeit against Mansfield Blue.

Ladder: Terip 83, Euroa 76, Moglonemby 75, Benalla 56, Mansfield Black 54, Seven Creeks 38, Mansfield Red 32, Mansfield Blue 26.

MTA committee members met on Monday night to discuss recent changes and prepare for the upcoming season.

MORE HANDS MAKES LIGHT WORK: Committee members Tim Ross, Brendan Purcell, Rachel Parsons, Jemma Purcell, Rhonda Carpenter, and Bob Carpenter

Brien

Town against an unbeaten top side.

But front up they did and had a go on the day with low numbers and unwell players not a deterrent.

Big follower Nathan Groom led the way with running players Brodie Purchase and Connor Peterson also in the thick of the action.

Defenders Seth Kilroy, James Wall and Jeremy Mann were constantly under pressure but did what they could

to stem the scoring.

It was a disappointing day for the reserves at Rushworth where the lack of fire power up forward made scoring difficult.

Players to show out included the athletic Caleb Ilbury, Cooper Gilder, Geordie McMurtrie and the super competitor Reece Dimech.

The final game of the 2023 season is a home game against Undera on next Sunday.

Euroa bowls club August update

EUROA BOWLS CLUB

By MARC STEVENS

THE 2023/24 bowls season is fast approaching with our opening day on Saturday, September 16.

Repair work has started on

our club room and progress is going well.

Bowlers are still continue to bowl on Saturdays at Nagambie and Benalla on Wednesdays.

We wish Audrey all the best and hope she gets well soon.

Ryan Pendlebury to be Euroa’s senior football coach

By EUROA FOOTBALL NETBALL CLUB

EUROA Football Netball Club 2023 Committee are very excited to announce that Ryan Pendlebury will be the senior football coach for seasons 2024/2025.

Ryan is delighted to be stepping into this role and has embraced the club as a player throughout 2023. For the time being though, his focus will continue to be on the pursuit of on-field success with the senior side in the latter stages of season 2023.

“Ryan presented at an excellent level throughout the recruitment process and is excited by what lies in front of him,” president Scott Watson said.

“The club, its members, sponsors and supporters eagerly anticipate the remaining rounds of season 2023 and the finals series ahead.

“Particular mention again to Scott Rowan who has been an outstanding leader and has the club well-positioned to continue its competitive and positive involvement in senior football in the GVL in 2024 and beyond.”

PHOTO: Jo O’

NEW COACH: Ryan Pendlebury will be the Euroa Magpies’ senior football coach for seasons 2024/2025.

PHOTO: Raelee Jager

GOD SPORTS: Di Bergelin and Karyn Fraser after their tiebreak set

PHOTO: Rhonda Carpenter

Avenel gears up for new season

AVENEL TENNIS CLUB

By DEE WRIGHT

ANYONE interested in playing Saturday afternoon senior competition tennis with the club in the forthcoming season?

Message either Stephen Garner 0419 870 207, Lachy Robinson 0417 289 231 or Dee Wright 0419 438 949 as soon as possible, with your name and contact number and we will get back to you, so that we can organise how many teams we enter.

For those not interested in playing competitive tennis but would still like a hit we offer social membership @ $25 per single or $50 a family.

A reminder to social members that membership for the 2023/24 season is now due.

Please note that we are in the process of changing the locking system at the courts so only financial members will have access.

Members are advised that we will be holding a working bee on Sunday, September 10 commenting 9am which will be followed

by Open Day.

All members of the community are welcome to come and have a hit.

This is the same day as the Avenel Market so you can grab a bargain, coffee and lunch after your workout on the court.

A demonstration of the new craze in tennis, “pickleball’”, will be given and anyone interested in learning more about the game or having a go are welcome to come and join in.

If sufficient interest is shown, we may look at starting a fun social competition.

Friday, August 18

Collingwood vs. Brisbane Lions (MCG) (N)

Saturday, August 19 Richmond vs. North Melbourne (MCG) Gold Coast SUNS vs. Carlton (HBS)

GWS GIANTS vs. Essendon (GS) (T)

St Kilda vs. Geelong Cats (MRVL) N)

Adelaide Crows vs. Sydney Swans (AD) (N)

Sunday, August 20

Western Bulldogs vs. West Coast Eagles (MRVL)

Melbourne vs. Hawthorn (MCG)

FOOTY TIPPING COMPETITION [AFL] ROUND 23

Fremantle vs. Port Adelaide (OS) (T)

HOWE ATTACKS BACK: The Towners were under consistent attack but Maya Howe stands up. See coverage back page.

WOMEN SLOG IT OUT ON THE TENNIS COURTS

Towners B Grade looking forward to finals

VTFNC – NETBALL

A GRADE

By STEPANIE HAYES

WITH perfect weather both teams were out to start strong to get the four points.

Due to the pressure both teams defensively started well with the ball going up and back before the first goal was scored.

Avenel settled first which allowed them to go up by two at the quarter break.

The second quarter started very much the same as the first quarter, goal for goal.

Halfway through the quarter Avenel got a couple of intercepts which pushed their lead out to four goals but Violet Town finished strong with Avenel still up by two goals.

Avenel started the third quarter with strong defensive pressure which allowed them to get some intercepts and force some Violet Town errors, creating multiple scoring opportunities.

This allowed Avenel to get out to a seven goal lead.

Avenel forced Violet Town into multiple unforced errors which allowed Avenel to finish the quarter by 10 goals.

Violet Town wasn’t able to get on top in the last quarter with Avenel keeping their lead, finishing the game winning by 11.

Final scores: Avenel 43 defeated Violet Town 32.

Awards: Best player –Jayde Burden.

Runners up – Kolby Wild. B GRADE

A TOUGH quarter of netball saw some brilliant feeds from Kayla into the ring and strong shooting from Lilly having the girls up by four at quarter time.

Avenel came out firing but Violet Towns defence was able to keep them from converting from the turnovers and helped the goalers extend their lead out to eight goals at halftime.

Shout out to the midcourt for fighting for every ball and some great passages of play.

The defensive pressure from Millie and Emma kept Avenel to only five goals in the third quarter.

Once again the midcourt players allowed for easy play down the court into the goalers who were able to convert their goals.

Lilly was instrumental in the Violet Town score line.

Scores at the end of the third quarter – Violet Town 31 to Avenel 19.

Four consistent quarters ensured Violet Town came away with the win.

Kayla Gracie once again had a blinder of a game along with Millie and Emma in defence.

A lot of positive things to take out of this match and hopefully finals to come.

Final Scores: Violet Town 39 defeated Avenel 27.

Awards:

Best player – Emma Warnock

Runners up – Lilly Armstrong

C GRADE

THE girls had some great passages of play, applying good defensive pressure throughout the court.

They all worked hard intercepting and picked up many lose balls.

In the second quarter the girls continued to work hard all over the court and continued some good ball movement.

In the third quarter the girls in defence got lots of tips.

Matilda did a great job in centre driving the ball throughout the court, our goal keepers worked hard and converted the pressure into goals.

In the last quarter the girls continued to work hard, keeping the defensive pressure up and used good ball movement throughout the game.

Great effort by everyone with the girls winning the last quarter but unfortunately going down.

The girls did such an amazing job and never gave in.

Final scores: Avenel 45 defeated Violet Town 20.

Awards:

Best player – Karalee Mason. Runners up – Kodi Mustey.

UNDER 13 THE Towners started the

game off strong with defence tapping and moving the ball down the court.

They stayed in touch with Avenel throughout the first quarter.

However in the second quarter they had lots of turnovers and seemed a little flat on the court. The temperature was rising and they seemed to struggle in the heat.

At halftime changes were made across the court but unfortunately it didn’t make a difference on the scoreboard.

Abi picked up a few loose balls in defence, Penny moved well to help bringing the ball down the court.

For the final quarter more changes were made to the midcourt and defence.

Abi and Macey made a move to the goals making it the best scoring quarter for the Towners.

Penny continued to pick up loose balls and Abbey had a strong defensive pressure game.

Violet town tried but Avenel were too strong on the day.

Final scores: Avenel 12 defeated Violet Town 7.

Awards: Best player – Penny Goss. Runners up – Abbey Frost.

UNDER 11

WHAT a game by the under 11s and everyone played like a whole team.

The girls did such an amazing job and shot the most goals they ever have this season.

Sophie did an awesome job and shot two goals in the third quarter.

Heidi took some amazing intercepts in wind attack whilst Bella moved well driving the ball forward when playing Centre. There were some beautiful passages of play where the girl’s used their channels well and ensured that they were driving to the ball.

Final scores: Avenel 16 defeated Violet Town 3.

Awards: Best player – Queenie O’Connor.

Runners up – Gypsy Campbell.

CALM UNDER PRESSURE: Karalee Mason finds an easy shot on goals.

FINDING

SPACE: Oliva Kloot drives the ball forward.

PHOTOS: Dale Mann