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BOWLS FOR EVERYONE

battle lost

COMMUNITY group EuroaConnect has lost its long-running fight to save the 150-year-old Euroa Goods Shed from demolition.

Inland Rail has confirmed it will “now commence taking the necessary steps to remove the goods shed” after Heritage Council Victoria (HCV) published a ruling on Thursday denying state heritage protection for the shed.

EuroaConnect president John Simpson said he was not surprised by HCV’s ruling, but he was disappointed.

“We are extremely disappointed, but we accept the umpire’s decision,” he said.

“I think that the process which has

gone on over the last 12 months has really demonstrated how important the goods shed is to this community, when you look at the number of people who have supported our efforts.

“So, our disappointment is on behalf of the community.

“Our call now is for Inland Rail to respect the position that the community has taken.

“It’s still within their province to protect the good shed, and if they can’t protect the whole, to at least ensure that we have access and can find ways to use some of the materials from the shed within the railway precinct –some sort of recognition of the history that the goods shed represents.”

■ Continued page 5

FREDERICK Hamill (aged 12) was one of the bowls-curious individuals who attended the Euroa Bowls Club Open Day on Saturday.
More photos on page 13.
PHOTO: Dale Mann

all CFA volunteers

MEMBER for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland has started a survey asking local CFA volunteers to share their experiences and discuss some of the challenges, pressures, or concerns they may have relating to the role.

Ms Cleeland said local brigades have recently expressed concerns regarding funding insecurity, a lack of government support, their ageing fleet of vehicles, and declining volunteer numbers.

She thanked all the local brigades for their dedication to keeping their communities safe and encouraged all volunteers to make a submission through the survey.

“The commitment and hard work our local volunteers demonstrate each and every day is greatly valued, and I want to ensure your voice is heard,” she said.

“This survey will allow me to gather your feedback on government support and your experience on the job so that I can advocate for the improvements needed to support your vital work.

“I want to thank all our CFA volunteers for their time and honest responses.”

The survey can be found at: https://www. surveymonkey.com/r/6HMZBK6

Mitchell Shire councillor Fiona Stevens runs for Strathbogie Shire

MITCHELL

Fiona Stevens is standing as a candidate in the local council elections in a bid to continue her local government work in the Strathbogie Shire.

Ms Stevens, who has spent eight years on Mitchell Shire Council including one as mayor, recently relocated to Nagambie.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the eight years that I’ve done with Mitchell,” she said.

“Changes come into your life and I’m at a stage where my future is Strathbogie.

Rainfall (Euroa Township)

SOME 12.6mm of rain fell at Euroa (Castle Creek at Telford Bridge) in the week ending 10am Monday, September 16, including 0.6mm on Monday, September 9, 11.8mm on Thursday, September 12 and 0.2mm on Sunday, September 15.

“Because I’ve enjoyed local government so much and I’ve seen the challenges Strathbogie has had, I believe the timing is really right for me, personally and professionally, to offer my experience and my knowledge to come into a brand-new council.”

The former police officer said she has had a long association with the Strathbogie Shire.

Ms Stevens grew up in Broadford and moved back to the Mitchell region in 1981 to live in Seymour, where she serviced an area that took in the Strathbogie Shire through her police work.

She said her mother was a resident at a local nursing home before passing away.

Ms Stevens’ second daughter has married a Nagambie local, and lives in Nagambie with three of her five grandchildren.

2024 EUROA & DISTRICT

What does she enjoy about working in local government?

“I’ve always been a people person,” she said.

“And local government is the closest level of government to the people.

“The other thing that I’ve really enjoyed about council, apart from the interaction with the community, is the opportunity on their behalf to plan for a good future.

“It’s challenging, it’s hard.

“You find that local government doesn’t have a lot of money, but they have a heck of a lot of responsibility.

“So, to be able to influence that in a positive way, knowing that you’re the voice of the community, is really satisfying.”

Ms Stevens said she has had a community conscience throughout her life.

She has volunteered in several groups and committees in Seymour, including serving as president of Seymour Rotary Club in 2008 and 2009.

She said her three priorities for Strathbogie Shire Council would be to make it a good, united, wellinformed, passionate council; to rebuild relationships and trust with council staff, community

stakeholders and potentially government stakeholders; and for the council to genuinely represent all ratepayers and residents throughout the shire.

Asked how she would prevent the recurrence of problems that saw council suspended in December 2023, Ms Stevens said:

“Mitchell Shire had nine councillors; nine very different people, very strong people.”

“There are times where you disagree, and that can be done respectfully,” she said.

“You can speak passionately and robustly about issues, but you must maintain the respect.”

Former shire mayor Amanda McClaren nominates for council

GRAYTOWN’S Amanda McClaren, who served as Strathbogie Shire Council’s mayor from 2016 to 2020, has nominated as a candidate for the October council election.

Ms McClaren’s four-year stint as mayor remains the longest uninterrupted mayoral term seen at Strathbogie Shire Council.

She appears to have kept busy in her time away from council.

According to her LinkedIn profile, she completed a twoyear masters degree in secondary teaching at Latrobe University and took up work as an agriculture teacher at Seymour College.

Ms McClaren has continued her farm work as a partner at Yapunyah Meadow Grazed Chickens, which she founded in 2010, and has been a board member of Goulburn Broken CMA since October 2021.

She did not run for council again in the October 2020 election, telling the Seymour Telegraph she would turn her attention to family and business commitments.

But she told this masthead she has time again to return to council, saying: “My eldest is finishing year 12 this year and my youngest is now at boarding school, so I have my time spread out a little bit more.”

Why is she running for council?

“Like most of the ratepayers, I’ve been very disappointed with what happened in our last term between 2020 and 2024,” she said.

“So, in the interest of good governance, community leadership and looking out for our community, I am putting my hand up again to run for council.

“I think I’ve got a lot to offer council.

“I’ve got the experience of having been the mayor for four years, so I have a good understanding of governance and the role of council, and also particu-

larly of Strathbogie Shire.”

Ms McClaren said it had been a privilege to serve as mayor and she enjoyed the role, but she is not seeking to become mayor again.

“I think that’s probably an opportunity for somebody else this time,” she said.

What achievements was she most proud of in her past term at council?

“Oh gosh, I’m proud of the whole term,” she said.

“I feel our council was very proactive.

“We had the zero to one roads program, we had the imple-

mentation of the boardwalk, the splash park, and the water activities in Nagambie, the skate park in Nagambie, the skate park at Avenel.

“During my time on council, we also had a couple of natural disasters with flooding and bushfires, and I advocated very strongly for our community and got funding in for different projects.

“So much to list, and so many positive things that we were able to do.

“I’m looking forward to contributing to that level of achievement in the next term, as well.”

GEARING UP FOR A COMEBACK: Graytown’s Amanda McClaren has nominated as a candidate for the October council election.
FROM COP TO COUNCIL: Fiona Stevens, a former police officer, has been a Mitchell Shire councillor for eight years.
PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

Eight candidates join forces, commiting to “work together”

A GROUP of eight council candidates has vowed to work together in accordance with six principles should they be elected, while appearing in a joint promotion in Nagambie’s Community Voice newspaper.

The candidates, who have said they will each be running their campaigns independently, are Gregory Carlson (Creightons Creek), Jimmy Davidson (Euroa), Claire Ewart-Kennedy (Wahring), Clark Holloway (Strathbogie), Scott Jeffery (Avenel), Amanda McClaren (Graytown), Fiona Stevens (Nagambie) and Frank York (Sheans Creek).

Referred to under the name “Let’s Work Together” – an apparent reference to the currently suspended council’s failure to work together constructively – the group has committed to the following six principles.

1. Work productively, proactively and cooperatively together - with community, councillors, the CEO, executive team and staff

2. Deliver value - for our shire’s residents, ratepayers, and businesses.

3. Ensure transparency - (where legally permitted) for process and decision making.

4. Require accountability and good governance - from councillors, the CEO and staff

5. Think strategically and review practices for continuous improvement and efficiencyin process, revenue and expenditure.

6. Demonstrate respect - for each other, council staff and the community.

Several community members, including Tablik Group director and former councillor Alister Purbrick, and Nagambie’s John Beresford, were involved in forming the group and drafting the six principles.

“A small group of individuals decided some time ago, after the last council was suspended, that the Shire of Strathbogie must not have a repeat of the inappropriate behaviour, poor governance and poor decision making that some councillors exhibited,” Mr Purbrick told this masthead.

He did not name the individuals, saying they requested privacy.

“In the initial stages, a number of potential candidates were approached who were respected within the community and had skills and experience in areas that could potentially add value and diversity to the council if elected,” he continued.

“Some of these potential candidates have decided to nominate.

“It was also important that the candidates represented as many towns and regions as possible to ensure that all residents and ratepayers in the shire were represented.

“The candidates, who have now decided to nominate for the upcoming shire elections, have individually and independently considered the six principles and have each agreed to abide by these principles if elected to the new council.”

Some of the candidates told this masthead they were involved in drafting the principles at an early stage, while others said they were approached later and asked if they agreed with the principles.

Three councillors who are running for council again after being suspended in December 2023 – Robin Weatherald, Chris Raeburn and Laura Binks – were not approached to be part of the group.

One of the community members involved with the group, Mr Beresford, explained: “We decided it wasn’t in the best interest of the community to have them involved, because they previously weren’t aligned to the principles which the group wants to abide by.”

“They didn’t abide by it in the last council, why would they abide by it this time?” he said.

“They didn’t work together as a team, they were dysfunctional, and they were suspended.”

However, the suspended councillors who are running again – who have previously made statements regarding the context of their suspension – have told this masthead they broadly agree with the Let’s Work Together principles.

Laura Binks said she would support all six principles with what she called a small but crucial change to the fourth principle, so it would read: “Require accountability and good governance - from Councillors and the CEO” (removing the word “staff ”).

She said in her understanding, it is the CEO’s role to manage their staff

Chris Raeburn said he supports the six principles and has always believed in them.

Robin Weatherald said he agrees with the six principles but would use much stronger wording to describe his own stance on transparency.

“I think that council need to not only say that they’re open and transparent, but they should practice it as well as preach it, which no council have done recently,” he said.

Mr Weatherald also criticised the generic nature of the principles.

“They’re motherhood statements, and blind Nelly can agree with it without offending herself – it’s not good enough” he said.

“Excessively broad statements that are not specific and more decisive by candidates is as weak as dishwasher.”

One of the candidates, Scott Jeffery, offered a counterpoint: “Though these [principles] may seem reasonable and logical, the last council were unable to work by them.”

Another candidate, Jim Billings, was not approached to be part of the Let’s Work Together group, despite his candidacy being known to some individuals involved.

He told this masthead he was disappointed not to be approached and he supports the six principles.

“Maybe they don’t like me – what’s not to like?” he said.

This masthead has not yet contacted other candidates including Brad Smith and Vicki Halsall, whose nominations were revealed more recently.

The “Let’s Work Together” partnership was first revealed in the Community Voice’s front-page story last week, which was followed by a piece on page three which asked readers to vote for the eight candidates.

Following questions from this masthead, Mr Beresford – a committee member of Nagambie’s chamber of commerce, GoNagambie, which publishes the Community Voice – said the front-page story was written by the newspaper’s editor, but the content on page three was separate “paid content”.

He said the paid content would be invoiced to supporters of Let’s Work Together, who do not wish to be identified yet and whose donations will be fully disclosed after the election in accordance with legal requirements.

Several of the Let’s Work Together candidates told this masthead they would not be accepting campaign donations, and Mr Beresford said these candidates would fully reimburse any costs associated with publicising the Let’s Work Together principles.

One of the candidates, Gregory Carlson, told this masthead a website and media release featuring the eight candidates are in the works.

“Each candidate is completely independent,” he said.

“Really, it is a very loose coalition of interests, and I think it’s just people responding to the challenge of trying to get elected in an area that’s three and a half thousand square kilometres.”

Location: 1B Bury St, Euroa View program & buy tickets online: www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au Telephone: 1800 065 993 Children under 13yrs

$5 School Holiday Movies INSIDE OUT 2

Wed. 25 September, 11am (Sensory Screening*) & 3pm Disney and Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” returns to the mind of newly minted teenager Riley just as headquarters is undergoing a sudden demolition to make room for something entirely unexpected: new Emotions!

200% WOLF

Wed. 2 October, 11am (Sensory Screening*) & 3pm Heroic poodle Freddy Lupin has everything it takes to lead his werewolf pack. Except respect.

But when a wayward wish transforms him into a werewolf and deposits a mischievous moon sprite on earth, Freddy must

family return home to Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life is turned upside down when her teenage daughter, Astrid, accidentally opens the portal to the Afterlife.

FUTURE WORKPLACE: Council nominations for the October election closed on Tuesday.
PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

TELESCOPE TIME:

EXPERIMENTATION: Angus Thompson experiments.

TIMEKEEPER:

ESC celebrates National Science Week

SCIENCE is everywhere and it plays a role, large and small, in every part of our lives.

At Euroa Secondary College the students were part of National Science Week last month, a national celebration of science and technology.

Adrian Bright and Kim Brown, science teachers at Euroa Secondary College, challenged their year nine science students to put their imaginations to work and devise scientific experi-

ments to display to all their classmates at a science fair.

Also attending the science fair were the younger students from St Johns Euroa and the Euroa Primary School, and the little ones from the Euroa Kindergarten.

The aim of the science fair was for students to show how they investigated a scientific question, then to present the answer in such a way as to intrigue and wow the students and themselves.

“It is important that students learn that it is not enough to be able to prove something – they have to be

Daniel Hooper: 0437684786

Margaret Corboy (Agent): 0428 822 154

Email: vortex.ws@bigpond.com

www.vortexws.com.au facebook.com/vortexws

able to communicate their findings clearly,” Mr Bright said.

Rockets flew, viscosity was measured, and the flammability of elements compared.

It was a fantastic opportunity for students to show what they had discovered and a massive undertaking by the teachers and Euroa Secondary College students that made the day the great success that it was.

Ms Brown spoke of the day’s success.

“Students being able to take a passion or interest of theirs and create an experi-

Wednesday 25th September 2024

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Rams are protected with Gudair (OJD Approved vaccinants), GlanEry 7in1, Footvax and vaccinated as lambs with Bovilis MH. Registered flocks with brucellosis free accreditation. Lambplan Figures Available. Lunch catered for.

ment, then share their findings with an eager audience, was very rewarding,” she said.

“It was impressive to see that the students were able to adapt their communication skills when discussing the science behind their experiments, to suit the various ages of the students who visited the fair.”

Euroa Secondary College also hosted a hands-on night viewing display, by Emma Barnett from Victorian Space Science Education Centre.

Emma came armed with

an amazing knowledge in astronomy and a very impressive telescope.

After an introduction from Emma, the telescope was unpacked and assembled from the numerous boxes.

Emma invited students to help her assemble the amazing piece of science technology.

Once the telescope was in millimetre perfect position, those attending the night display were invited to observe the darkening sky.

Although there was some cloud, it did not deter the expressions of wonder from

those lucky enough to be part of the fun.

Brian Greene, professor of physics and mathematics at Columbia University, puts the importance of science in our lives simply.

“Science is a way of life. It is a perspective,” he wrote in a 2008 opinion piece for the New York Times.

“Science is the process that takes us from confusion to understanding in a manner that’s precise, predictive, and reliable – a transformation, for those lucky enough to experience it, that is empowering and emotional.”

m. 0497 620 188

e. admin@fosterlegal.com.au w. www.fosterlegal.com.au

Walter Pedder, Emma Barnett and Arabella Bright.
Ashlea Antonis keeps time.
SCIENTISTS AT WORK: Lily Asquith and Mika Stefanos. PHOTOS: Kai Henson and Max Telfer

Shed battle lost

■ From front page

Inland Rail delivery director Ed Walker said the community will soon be asked for feedback on options to acknowledge the goods shed in the railway precinct.

“The latest designs for the Euroa railway station precinct will be released soon and we will actively engage with the community to seek their feedback,” he said.

“The community will see many of the changes they asked for in the new designs.

“At the same time, we will share and seek feedback on a heritage interpretation plan that presents options to acknowledge the goods shed in the new design.

“We will keep the community informed about the plans for the removal of the goods shed.”

An Inland Rail spokesperson said no date has been set yet for the demolition, and Inland Rail will need to work with Strathbogie Shire Council before the demolition.

Inland Rail and council have been asked for further information on the required process.

The ruling published on Thursday followed a two-day hearing in June in which EuroaConnect argued for the shed to be included in the Victorian heritage register to prevent its demolition.

Inland Rail and Heritage Victoria made the opposing case, arguing the shed did not meet the criteria for statewide heritage significance –an argument HCV ultimately agreed with.

Inland Rail engaged a major law firm, a heritage consultancy and an engineering consultancy to bolster their fight to demolish the shed, drawing on funding they had allocated for the development of Euroa’s railway precinct.

HCV had halted Inland Rail’s demolition plans in November 2023 when they granted an interim protection order for the shed following a submission from EuroaConnect.

But in January, Heritage Victoria’s executive director recommended the shed not be granted permanent protection as it did not meet the criteria.

EuroaConnect successfully requested a hearing to rebut the recommendation, further delaying the demolition plans until Thursday’s ruling.

Inland Rail first announced in August 2023 its intention to demolish the shed, saying the relocated station platform will encroach on it when they upgrade Euroa Railway Station for the Inland Rail network.

At the same time, Inland Rail commissioned an engineering report which found the shed posed a health and safety risk as its collapse was imminent.

The shed’s condition has visibly declined since Inland Rail fenced it off in August 2023, and in January, Inland Rail commissioned a second engineering report which recommended immediate demolition, stating “a collapse could occur without further warning, at any time”.

Construction of Euroa’s updated railway station and railway precinct is scheduled for early 2025, to be completed by 2027.

EuroaConnect is continuing to push for BinneyLink, a concept that would connect the new precinct with Binney Street and the northern end of Euroa through a large pedestrian underpass.

An Inland Rail spokesperson said investigations currently being undertaken by John Holland within the rail corridor are not associated with the goods shed.

Euroa to host Victorian sheep dog championship

GV Health still seeking Euroa Hospital committee members

GV HEALTH continues to seek expressions of interest seeking from community members to join its Euroa Hospital Community Reference Committee.

The deadline for expressions of interest was recently extended, then dropped entirely, as GV Health continues to encourage the community to apply.

The committee will provide a link between the local community and GV Health, contributing valuable input and feedback to ensure that Euroa Hospital’s services reflect the needs and priorities of the people it serves, according to a GV Health media release.

The committee will have up to 12 members, with meetings to be held every two months for a total of six meetings per year.

Ideal candidates will be available for consultation with GV Health and the community, and be willing to contribute, ask questions, work collaboratively with others, and participate in forums as necessary.

GV Health CEO Matt Sharp said the committee would follow a model successfully implemented across GV Health’s other health services.

“Our goal is to strengthen GV Health’s relationship with the local community,” he said.

“Our priority is providing high quality, local acute care services for people in the Strathbogie Shire, and we know from experience that local advice and support will be essential to our success.”

Community members interested in joining the Euroa Hospital Community Reference Committee should submit a one-page letter addressed to the Euroa Hospital Director of Nursing, Stuart Riddett, indicating why they wish to join the committee and the skills they bring.

Letters can be submitted to ConsumerPartners@ gvhealth.org.au.

For more information, contact Stuart Riddett, the Director of Nursing at Euroa Hospital, on 5795 4010 during business hours.

EUROA will play host to the 2024 Victorian Yard Dog Championship, which will take place during the Euroa Show next month.

The Euroa Sheepdog Club was nominated to host the event this year, which is held in a different Victorian region every year.

“It’s a privilege, in a sense, to be asked to host the event,” Euroa Sheepdog Club president James Fowler said.

“It’s the biggest event for Victoria when it comes to trialling.

“It means a lot to the person who wins it, so to host it, it’s a big responsibility.

“We’ve got to make it fair, we’ve got to make it competitive, we have to make it hard enough that we’ll expose the best dog on the weekend.”

Tough competition is expected, with top handlers attending from interstate.

The winner will receive about $1000 of prize money, a medal and a belt buckle, but Mr Fowler said the real prize for most competitors is the title.

The championship will take on October 25, 26 and 27, with the winner to be announced on the final day (Sunday).

The Euroa Sheep Dog Club was awarded a $5000 event grant from Strathbogie Shire Council at the August council meeting.

Volunteers experience Dementia Volunteers Dementia through virtual reality virtual

Volunteers at GraniteHill Aged Care have recently completed an onsite training session provided by Dementia Australia. The “Enabling Edie” program was sourced for GraniteHill volunteers and was made possible through a Community Volunteer Grant from Helen Haines MP for the 2023-24 period.

The “Enabling Edie” workshop uses cuttingedge virtual reality technology to immerse participants in the experience of living with dementia. This innovative approach helps volunteers gain a deeper understanding of dementia and learn effective strategies to support residents in living confidently.

Volunteer Jillian Ryan reflected on the impact of the training, noting that it heightened her awareness of simple but significant aspects, such as choosing appropriate clothing colors, and will improve her ability to collaborate with staff in supporting residents. Additionally, the training provided her with valuable reference materials from Dementia Australia for future use.

This training aligns with the recent opening of GraniteHill’s new “Shovelton” Memory Support Unit, which was developed with input from Dementia Australia. The Memory Support Unit is designed to help residents maintain independence in a familiar environment including easily accessible kitchen areas with clear labeling, allowing residents to help themselves while volunteers and staff are available to assist as needed.

Volunteers at Gr G anit H eHilll A d Caare h have
Judy and Jillian attending training
TRIAL BY DOG: Sheep dog trials at the Euroa Show in 2022.
PHOTO: Naomi White

45-47

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

When Magpies met Magpie

WELL done to the Euroa black under 13 netball side who won their grand final last week.

It was great to see the girls embrace their Magpie (Swoop) to capture a moment in time.

This was the vision we had at the start of the commission – for the town to have a sense of pride.

Hope to see many more teams up on the Maggie holding up their premiership cups.

Well done gals.

Steve Tobin (Tank and Tobin Sculpture Works), Longwood

Poems on Kirwans and Kamala

I: The Park at Kirwans Bridge

If the Council had never been fired, would the caravan park be desired

Euroa: Euroa Newsagency

Violet Town: Violet Town Corner Store

Avenel: Avenel Newsagency

Benalla: Benalla Newsagency

Strathbogie: Strathbogie Store

Nagambie: Nagambie Newsagency

Longwood: Longwood Newsagency

Merton: Merton General Store

Seymour: Seymour Newsagency

Shepparton: Lovell’s Newsagency Wangaratta: Edgar’s Newsagency

so to now go ahead (in a rush, it is said) as he in Admin has required?

II: Kamala Harass

There are those who think Kamala Harris, if elected, would surely embarrass by bringing in new (and of those, not a few) policies likely to harass.

Craig Penny, Terip Terip

Bracing for magpie attacks

SO it is springtime again and I have only been dive-bombed twice by our Euroa symbols, the magpies.

Then suddenly, as if by magic, it all ceased.

But spring has just begun, and when the winds have dropped and the maggies rebuild their nests and start their familes, the dive-bombing will return, and my poor old head will suffer.

But nature is beautiful and a sore head is nothing compared to a new life.

Ted More, Euroa

Recognising foster carers

LAST week was Foster Care Week, a week in which we can celebrate and recognise all those who make a positive contribution in the lives of vulnerable children and young people right across our country.

This year’s theme is “Today’s carers. Tomorrow’s future” –highlighting the role that carers can have in ensuring those in care have the best possible opportunities to succeed in the future.

Unfortunately, the incredible and selfless work of foster carers in Victoria is being taken for granted by the Allan Labor Government and the consequences for our most vulnerable children and young people are tragic.

Victorian foster carers have the lowest care allowance in Australia and has had no increase since 2016.

We know that children who should be placed in a loving foster care home, are instead being placed into residential care, or contingency

placements, as more and more unsupported foster carers simply can no longer afford to open their homes.

The number of foster carers in Victoria has been in steady decline since 2020 and the number of households completing accreditation is also decreasing as a direct result of this government’s failure to support foster carers in their valuable work.

I am currently undertaking research into the foster care system in our region with parliamentary intern, Sheridyn Sandford, and look forward to being able to share the findings with you in the near future.

I want to thank all carers in our community that are upholding these values and working hard to provide a better life to those in need despite this hardship.

For the sake of all children within the system and their futures, I hope to see this government ensure carers are provided with the support they need and deserve.

Annabelle Cleeland, Member for Euroa

Cdid Strathbogie Shire Council election candidates revealed

CANDIDATE nominations for the Strathbogie Shire Council elections closed at 12pm yesterday. Candidate questionnaires, statements and photographs, where provided by candidates to the VEC, were published online on Wednesday, September 18, after this newspaper was printed.

At 4.30pm Monday, 13 candidates had nominated according to the VEC website: Claire EwartKennedy, Scott Jefferey, Frank York, Clark Holloway, Jim Billings, Jimmy Davidson, Chris Raeburn, Fiona Stevens, Greg Carlson, Robin Weatherald, Brad Smith and Vicki Halsall.

One other person, Laura Binks, told this masthead she will nominate as a candidate.

Mr Weatherald, Mr Raeburn and Ms Binks were part of the council suspended in December 2023 and replaced by an administrator.

Strathbogie Shire Council en-

tered caretaker mode at 12pm yesterday, at the same time nominations closed.

The agenda for Tuesday night’s council meeting was tiny, with council unable to make major decisions during the caretaker period, which ends at 6pm on October 26, after voting closes.

According to its election period policy, during this period council cannot make decisions which: relate to the appointment or remuneration of a CEO; commits council to expenditure exceeding one percent of its income; or a decision “that could reasonably be deferred until the next council is in place”.

Council’s media and communications activity is also reduced during this period.

Astute readers of the Gazette’s print edition will notice council did not place its regular half-page advertisement on page four.

The 2024 Victorian council elections will be held by post.

Ballots will be posted on Monday, October 7, and voting will close on Friday, October 25.

Election results will be declared on Friday, November 15.

Residents will be asked to vote for candidates from across the shire, as Strathbogie Shire Council will this year move to an unsubdivided electoral structure.

Dale Mann PHOTOGRAPHER Daniel Godsmark SPORT EDITORIAL
ELECTION OFFICE CLOSED: Candidate nominations for the Strathbogie Shire Council election closed at 12pm yesterday.
PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

Third Age Club enjoys Tongala bus trip

BEAUTIFUL weather started the Euroa Third Age Club’s Tongala bus trip perfectly.

Alistair was an excellent driver and able to give an interesting commentary concerning the areas we drove through.

The murals were excellent and some of us were lucky enough to see an artist at work, five of us walked away with free sketches.

Lunch was at the bakery or the fish shop as the hotel was closed.

A great day was had by all.

The September club meeting will be held on Thursday, September 25 at 2pm at the club and we hope to see many members there.

The club would like to express our appreciation to the management at Liquor

Works Euroa for their support in suppl ying the products at a minimal cost, which made up the hamper that was first prize in the recent Father’s Day raffle. Due to their support, we were able to raise muchneeded funds for the club.

Euroa RSL raises over $1700 for Legacy Australia

LEGACY Australia is an iconic Australian organisation that has been active since 1923, established following the end of The Great War.

It was founded on the promise of one digger to another – “please look after my missus and kids if I don’t make it back”.

Legacy was created to aid and support the families of those military personnel that didn’t return to Australia, having paid the supreme price in the defence of our country.

Legacy provides advocacy for these families to ensure they receive financial assistance from the governments where required.

Legacy ensures that no family member faces social isolation.

Legacy has clubs, local events, and camps where families of our fallen can come together, bond and create supportive friendships.

Legacy leaves no one behind.

rifice of the many, where, despite the passage of time, the pain and hurt of the loss remains strong for the families.

Due to the enormous generosity of our local community, the Euroa RSL raised more than $1700 for Legacy Australia.

This was an amazing result, especially considering we are a small community, and times are tight and tough for many financially.

ANGLICAN CHURCH

Saturday 21st September

Holy Eucharist

12.30pm St Dunstan’s Violet Town

Sunday 22nd September

Holy Eucharist

9.15am St Paul’s Euroa

Wednesday 25th September

Holy Eucharist

10am St Paul’s Euroa Enq: 5704 0330

www.anglicaneuroa.org.au

All welcome

BAPTIST CHURCH

31 Kennedy Street, Euroa

Sunday September 22nd, 10am Tuesday: 9.30am Prayer, 10.30am Bible Study.

Listen to Vision Radio 88.4 FM

Enq: Pastor Rob Archer 0408 513 566

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST

Services at Kelvin View Hall

Sunday September 22nd

10.30am Morning Worship

Bridge Day fundraiser a success

ON Monday, September 9, Euroa Red Cross held a fundraising Bridge Day.

Participants played bridge and games. They enjoyed a beautiful morning tea and lunch hosted by our members.

We had about 50 people, some from nearby towns, attend.

Thanks to Bev Asquith’s contacts in the bridge community.

We also had members from local games groups.

A raffle was held due to generous support from Balmattum Butchers, Mitre 10, Thomsons Home & Electric.

Also, Burkes Bakery kindly donated bread for our sandwiches.

Red Cross raised $1881.30 on the day.

Thank you to all our members who worked tirelessly on the day and the food that they prepared, and on the Sunday to set up.

Thank you also goes to the bridge ladies and the men who helped set up the Sunday.

The bridge and games members thank you, and a day was enjoyed by all.

Recently our Red Cross Branch was restructured to Friends of Red Cross.

We will continue our monthly meetings and our fundraising activities.

Meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month at 10am at the RSL Hall, Kirkland Avenue.

We welcome new members any time.

As always, we were delighted to speak to many locals during the day, many of whom had been beneficiaries of Legacy’s services over the years.

Many shared personal stories and together we honour the sac-

On Friday, September 6, Members of the Euroa RSL branch were delighted to support Legacy Week by selling badges and were set up outside Burtons IGA in Binney Street Euroa from 8am until 6pm.

These are difficult times; however, we want to thank everyone in our community who purchased a badge or made a donation on the day.

Time and time again, the Euroa community digs deep to help those in need, and in this case, to help the families of the men and women who answered the call and tragically never came home.

Thank you Euroa. You are the best.

JOIN OUR EUROA COMMUNITY REFERENCE COMMITTEE

Expressions of interest are open for community members to join our inaugural Euroa Community Reference Committee.

The Community Reference Committee is your platform to:

✓ Strengthen the connection between GV Health and the Euroa and surrounding communities

✓ Provide advice and feedback to GV Health regarding Euroa Hospital and the provision of health services and related issues in the Strathbogie region

✓ Help improve health and wellbeing outcomes and experiences for people and communities in your region

The Euroa Community Reference Committee will meet six times a year.

All member positions are voluntary.

For more information, contact the Director of Nursing at Euroa Hospital on 5795 4010 (during business hours).

To express your interest, please send a one-page letter indicating why you wish to join the Euroa Community Reference Committee and the skills you will bring, to ConsumerPartners@gvhealth.org.au

38 Weir Street, Euroa, 3666

www.gvhealth.org.au

Everyone welcome Pastor: Murray Broughton 5795 1950

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Balmattum

Every Sunday 3pm Worship

Enq: Rev. Stephen McDonald 5762 6275

Yea Presbyterian Church, 9am St Andrew’s Seymour, 11.15am Nagambie inquiries to: Bonnie Purbrick 5794 2544 or Bill Day 5794 2070

CATHOLIC CHURCH

St John’s, Euroa Wednesday 8am Mass Friday 12.30pm Mass Saturday Vigil Mass

6pm St. John’s Church Euroa Sunday Mass

8.30am St Patrick’s Longwood 10.30am St Attracta’s Violet Town

Enquiries: Fr Tony Hill 5795 3048 For Baptisms and weddings please contact Fr Tony or the Parish Office

UNITING CHURCH

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

Enq: Robyn Burke 5795 3103 Judi Ward 0437 686 072

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

Enq: Joan Wood 5795 1175

St Andrew’s Violet Town

Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am All welcome

Enq: John Dunn 0419 362 866

EUROA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

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

Enquiries: Aaron 0493 101 663

SERVICE REMEMBERED: Three war heroes memorialised in Euroa.

AGRICULTURAL NEWS

Market organisers hope for better weather

EUROA Farmers Market

is on this Saturday, September 21 and the spring weather is starting to arrive.

We have a had a couple of quiet, wet markets this winter so let’s hope that the weather is kind for this market as we head back to Rotary Park and spread out amongst the trees and have grass at our feet instead of asphalt.

There will be a full circle of food and craft stalls with more stalls in the centre next to the community BBQ so make sure you have a good look around to find your favourite producer.

Talking about the community BBQ; the Euroa Croquet Club members will be running hoops around the egg and bacon muffins and the Striker will be in control of the sausages.

Our music entertainer this month will be talented singer songwriter Clint Smith and our beautiful Cherry Princess face painter will be there from 10am.

Takeaway food vans, freshly baked bread as well as coffee will all be available in the park and it’s a great place for all your dogs, so bring them along and see you at Euroa’s own monthly farmers market.

Saturday, September 21, 9am to 1pm at Rotary Park. For more information about the market call me on 0447 360 059.

Shearing season in full swing

SEPTEMBER has arrived, and with it, the sights and sounds of shearing season are in full swing across the Strathbogie Shire.

The rhythmic snip of shears, the buzz of electric hand pieces and the steady hum of hardworking shearers mark the start of the season.

Euroa has been known to have produced some of the best shearers in Australia, with some having the honour of being inductees into the Australian Shearer’s Hall of Fame.

The shearing shed, a modest structure that has stood for decades, becomes the hub of activity.

Inside, shearers, many of whom have honed their craft over a lifetime, move with practiced precision.

Shearing is no easy task.

Each sheep is carefully guided by a shearer, who must remove the wool in one piece.

It’s a delicate balance of speed, strength, and finesse.

Skilled shearers can handle up to hundreds of sheep a day, working tirelessly from dawn until dusk.

The wool, once removed, is sorted and baled, ready to be sold or shipped to processors.

While the tradition of shearing remains a constant, technology continues to play a role in shap-

ing the process.

More farmers are investing in automated shearing equipment and tools to increase efficiency and reduce labor costs.

Still, there’s no replacement for the steady hand and keen eye of a skilled shearer.

For now, the season is young, and there is plenty of wool to be shorn.

From the shearers and farmhands to the truck drivers and wool buyers, every hand plays a part in bringing the product to market.

As the shearing sheds continue to buzz with life and activity, it’s clear that this age-old tradition is still at the heart of our rural community.

Greater Shepparton well-positioned as national hub for

THE AUSTRALIAN Food and Grocery Council Forum held in Shepparton on September 3 proved to be a resounding success for organisers with the Committee for Greater Shepparton (C4GS) welcoming 130 attendees to the inaugural event.

Highlighting significant investment in food and grocery manufacturing in the region, C4GS CEO Linda Nieuwenhuizen said the forum generated a real buzz, with attendees excited about where they live and work.

“Our local food and grocery sector generates more than $3.1 billion for the local economy,” she said.

“It employs more than 4,100 local people and injects more than $340 million of wages into local communities.”

Representing the largest manufacturing sector of Greater Shepparton

food and grocery manufacturing

(which includes Moira, Shepparton and Campaspe), food and grocery accounts for 66.5 per cent of total manufacturing jobs in the region.

“On Tuesday night at the forum, we had a single goal of shining a spotlight on the region as a food and grocery manufacturing powerhouse by hosting the CEO of the Australian Food and Grocery Council and hearing from people who are shaping the future of the local sector,” Ms Nieuwenhuizen said.

“Based on what we heard there’s an estimated billion dollars of investment either planned or underway in the region, across processing, intensive dairy, high tech glasshouses and high value irrigated agriculture.

“And this is because Greater Shepparton ticks all the boxes.

“We’ve always known we’ve got great climate and great soil, but what came out on the night was just how important the location of Great-

er Shepparton is with that connectivity to port, along with the quality of our workforces, that real depth of experience in the key industries and the scale of our trades and services sectors.”

With local businesses, agencies and community groups in attendance alongside the Australian Food and Grocery Council, the C4GS also invited other significant stakeholders with representatives from Invest Victoria, Port of Melbourne and Australian Gas Infrastructure Group present at the forum.

“The region is one of the most important intersections in south-east Australia - and that is for multiple industries who are producing at scale,”

Ms Nieuwenhuizen said.

Ms Nieuwenhuizen used Noumi and Noumi Nutritionals as an example, with the Australian-owned premium dairy, milk and proteins facility based in Greater Shepparton.

Over the last five years, the facility has undergone a $300 million investment.

“Noumi knows that by basing themselves here, they are anchored in a really reliable dairy region and can move their product easily to all of the liquid milk markets across Australia, and also through the Port of Melbourne for export,” she said.

Building on dairy in the region, one of the panelists at the forum discussed how they were lifting productivity by at least 30 per cent at their intensive dairy enterprise, delivering a reliable supply at volume.

Another exciting investment within the region at Tongala is the construction of high-tech glasshouses with a footprint the equivalent size of ten Melbourne Cricket Grounds.

Creating around 150 to 200 new jobs, the enterprise will concentrate initially on tomatoes with varieties chosen predominantly for flavour.

SHEARING SEASON: Justin O’Callahan and fellow shearers working hard in the shed on Thursday morning last week.
PHOTO: Nicole Teunon

Strathbogie Fire Brigade ready for Bushfire Sunday

ON October 20, the Strathbogie Fire Brigade is conducting its annual Bushfire Sunday at Strathbogie Town Hall between 10am and 2pm.

The aim of the day is to equip people with knowledge and skills to better prepare themselves and their properties for the upcoming fire season.

Anyone from anywhere is most welcome to attend, so make a day of it and bring your family, friends and neighbours.

Even if you have been before you are encouraged to attend, there is always something new to learn and new people to meet.

Serving brigade members are also

encouraged to attend to share their expertise and their experiences.

Bushfire Sunday was started 10 years ago after a discussion with the local brigade captain and a newly minted CFA member.

As the area is prone to fire it was considered necessary to better prepare individuals and property owners for the risks involved with living in the area and what they could do to reduce that risk.

Originally it was a relaxed morning meeting sharing a lovely Devonshire tea and discussion as to what to expect in the event of fire.

These days you still get the Devonshire tea, but you also get a gourmet BBQ for lunch.

Seven years ago, following a

chance discussion with the CFA District 22 Community Safety Coordinator it was decided to have full training day each year run by the District 22 Community Safety team to better equip people living in the area with some knowledge of what they can do to help themselves in the event of an emergency.

The day is completely free and funded by the CFA.

RSVP is essential for relevant training resources and catering, if you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know.

Contact: Emily Guthrie at emily. guthrie@cfa.vic.gov.au or mobile 0447415849, or Kim Usher at kim. usher@bigpond.com or mobile 0439468906.

District News

Violet Town tidings

WINDY, trees down, tree contractors busy around the streets, offers of free wood from fallen limbs and one huge elderly gum met its demise when it completely toppled over. Then hot weather and now cold again.

Bring on the spring rain.

Congratulations to the Violet Town Under 15 Football team who won their grand final.

And congrats to the coaching and support staff too.

Commiserations to the Under 18s who had a great season but were runners up in their grand final.

Yum, yum.

Karramomus Hall and Rec Reserve’s spring time High Tea is back on Sunday September 22, 2pm-4pm at $35 a head.

Bookings and pre-payment are essential.

Please phone 0409 182 451 to book.

Violet Town and District Early Childhood Centre recently announced that it was rated as Exceeding the National Quality Standard (NQS) under the National Quality Framework.

The NQS provides a national benchmark for the quality of children’s education and care services across Australia.

Services are evaluated by state or territory regulatory authorities against the NQS’s seven quality areas, and are given both individual and overall ratings.

Director Melanie Delaney said it signified the centre surpassed the requirements in at least four of the seven quality areas.

Rabbit control – rumour has it that calicivirus was released in the district in the past few months – it obviously hasn’t spread to rabbits in my garden yet but is hopefully making a difference at the cemetery and district.

Violet Town Bush Nursing Centre has a vacancy for a cook.

Approx. 40 hours a fortnight plus relief when required.

Above award rates paid and generous salary packaging available.

Contact Glenda Gibson on 5798 1324 for more info or email ceo@hsrh.com.au.

Violet Town Quarries is seeking a casual but experienced excavator/dump truck operator for a three-month period with possibility of full-time employment.

Please send resume and cover letter to vtq@bigpond.com marked attention quarry manager.

Two diary dates: a concert of Gilbert and Sullivan’s famous tunes (but a different selection) will again be performed in VT on Saturday, October 26 at St Dunstan’s Hall – now fully airconditioned for your comfort.

VTFNC AGM Sunday, October 27 starting at 2pm.

BUSHFIRE SUNDAY: A previous Bushfire Sunday session held at Strathbogie Town Hall.

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GOUGH, Rita. Balmattum

CFA would like to extend their deepest sympathies to the Gough family on the passing of Rita.

HOOKER, Allan John. Passed away peacefully at Granite Hill Nursing Home, Euroa. Late of Platt Street, Euroa. Aged 95 years.

Loving husband to Norma. Much loved father, father-in-law and grandfather to Simon and Jodie, Angie, Lexi, Ashleigh, Gemma and Leni, Michael and Janet, Maddy, Stephie and Gabby, Nicole and Greg, Wil and Clem. Cherished brother of Joan, Marge, Wilma and Pat.

A requiem mass for Allan Hooker will be held at St John’s Catholic Church, Kirkland Ave, Euroa on Friday, September 20, 2024 commencing at 2pm. Followed by interment at Euroa Lawn Cemetery.

HOOKER, Allan.

President Peter Penman and fellow member of the Euroa Lions Club mourn the passing of our Life Member Allan Hooker. We extend our condolences to Simon, Michael, Nicole and their Families.

MISKOLCZY (neé Tatai), Iren Agnes. Passed away peacefully at Northeast Health Wangaratta on September 9, 2024. Aged 95 years.

Loved and loving wife of Balazs (dec). Loved and adored mother of Balazs. Treasured Grandma of Balazs jnr. and Nahria. ‘Re-united with Dad’

MISKOLCZY

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Mrs Iren Agnes Miskolczy will be held at St Andrew’s Uniting Church, Kirkland Avenue, Euroa on Monday, September 23, 2024 commencing at 11am. Private cremation.

2016 Mitsubushi QE Pajero Sport GLS, auto, 113,000km, heaps of extras, great car, reg (CMN23Y), $38,000 ono. Ph 0427 500 961.

1/5/1987-12/9/2004

We miss you so very much. ~ Mum, Dad. Terri, Dayle, Lynn and Adam. Please everyone, drive carefully.

SUBARU Forester 2015 auto, tow bar, RWC, reg (1EU8LU), 286,000km, excellent condition, full y serviced $12,000. Contact Ian 0414 428 544.

2014 Jeep Wrangle r Sport Unlimited, convertible hard top, automatic, petrol 3.6 litre, loads o f accessories, such as fog lights, hill descent, etc. goes anywhere, looks awesome in hard to get red, RWC, rego (2AD5JL), $24,999, Mansfield. Ph 0403 359 006.

(1WQ9ZO), bull bar, driving lights, roof racks, Anderson, Redarc, electrics, $67,000 ono. Ph 0415 665 327. 2016 VW Golf comfortline, 167,000km, rego till May 2025 (1FC8WG), great car, always serviced, $13,750. Ph 0407 829 464.

The Friends of Euroa Library ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING will be held on Tuesday, October 8 at 5pm in the Library’s Meeting Room.

Agistment for

N.J. TODD
Member AFDA EUROA 1800 352 425 BENALLA (03) 5762 2461
SHORT, Renee.

Challenging winds test weekend golfers

EUROA LADIES GOLF

WEDNESDAY, September 11.

Stroke and second round of the Dot Rule Trophy.

The warmer weather enticed twelve women to venture out for 18 holes and four to play nine holes.

Lorraine Ellis put on a clinic and came home with a brilliant nett 68 to win Division one.

This is one stroke better than her previous win on Saturday.

Outstanding result Lorraine. Sarah Bullen took out Division two with nett 72.

Balls down the line to Judy McLean on 72 and Deb Cox on 73.

Olga Hill won the nine-hole competition, for the second week running, with 14 points.

Good work Olga.

Least putts to Annette Smith with 28.

Nearest the Pins.

Eighth: Judy McLean, 12th: Erica Mercer and 18th: Dot Rule.

Drive and Pitch. Fifth: Judy McLean, 15th: Robin Lied.

Saturday, September 14.

A Stableford round with seventeen women participating.

The smart women played in the morning and avoided the worst of the icy winds which provided an additional challenge for the afternoon group.

Despite the conditions, scores were close.

Winner of Division one was Deb Cox with 35 points on a countback from Levenia Redfern.

Robyn Anthony had the score of the day and won Division two with 36 points.

Balls down the line to Levenia Redfern, 35 points, Erica Mercer and Jenny Thompson both on 34 points.

Nearest the Pins. Eighth: The Club, 12th: Gail Allen, 18th: Roz Doxey.

Drive and Pitch. Fifth: Lorraine Ellis and 15th: Melissa Eddy.

Lorraine Ellis did feature as a winner on the day as she yet again won our weekly raffle.

However, being a generous spirit, Lorrraine graciously declined first prize allowing it to be won by another member.

Well done Lorraine.

Wednesday 18 September will be the third round of the Dot Rule Trophy.

Saturday 21 September will be Par.

SMOOTH SWING: James McQuillan focuses on a delicate chip shot. PHOTOS: Dale Mann

STRATHBOGIE GOLF CLUB

LAST week the course was closed due to coring work being done to the greens.

Thanks goes out to all the volunteers that helped with the sanding of greens, fertilizing of the greens and any other activities that were performed during the week.

This week we all played early because of the gala dinner; the greens were a little rough, but everyone had some great scores

Winner of the Stableford round was John Moore with a great score of 33 points.

His second win in as many weeks.

Lineballs went to Shae Van Der Schoor with 31 points, Luke Winnell with 30 points, Phil Fry also with 29 points was the last ball winner

Nearest the pins were won by Greg

ROUND RESULTS:

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

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

Our Club offers specialist Basketball Clinics, as well as pathways through Senior Big V Competitions.

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

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

Roberts on the 15th and 17th.

Men’s drive and pitch was won by Phil Fry, and the straightest drive was Shae Van Der Schoor.

On Saturday night we had a gala dinner, everyone had a wonderful time.

Thanks to all that helped with preparations and running of the dinner.

Next Saturday will be a stroke and Championship round.

Allan Rowarth is on Duty.

NAGAMBIE GOLF CLUB

WINDS from the Antarctic or what felt like an Antarctic wind blew through Nagambie across the weekend dropping temperature and making golfers wonder if winter had returned, but 28 steadfast competitors still made it out for the fourth round of the social club trophy.

Michael Sloan was the winning

player on the day with a clinical 39 stableford points, Sloan got off to a slow start but a stern selfdressing down after the fourth hole got things going, finishing with an eagle and two birdies from the next 14 holes.

Runner up was Chris Roberts knocking out 38 points with some consistent golf on the day, Roberts showing he is capable when his game is good, being pushed back to third by way of a count back was Gary Bow hitting the ball solidly for his 38 stableford points.

The nearest the pin prizes went to John Gale flushing the ball up to the third, Michael Sloan judging the wind perfectly to find the green on the eigth and the pin seeker himself Bill Leviston attacking the flag at the 13th.

Next week’s golf moves to a Saturday fixture with a Par event being played on offer and office duty will be J. Ezard and in the bar W. Le Cerf.

EUROA GOLF CLUB

MAJOR sponsors this week at Euroa Golf Club were our very good friends from Burton’s Stores in a week that saw more than 60 competition rounds played by the members at Euroa Golf Club.

Fourteen players entered the ninehole Sunday competition which saw a four-way countback between Matthew Mills, Sam Mills, Michelle Thompson and Melissa Eddy on 19 points.

The Wednesday Stableford round was won by Dick Farmer on 39 points from Donald McNeur on 36 points.

Cold and windy conditions confronted the 33 players in the Stableford event on Saturday.

Division One was taken out by Bill Wright with 36 points from his handicap of 12 whilst in Division Two Dan Murphy had the round of the day with an impressive 42 points, other good scores and Balls down the Line went to Owen Robertson on 36, Brien Rosenbrock 36, Charlie Watson 36, G Ross 35 and M Mills 34.

With the course and greens in really good condition, many good scores were posted, however some of our members are still struggling to regain their playing form after some time away.

Next Saturday there is a player competition and after golf the local Eurockafellas Band will be entertaining into the evening in the clubhouse.

Supper will be provided and the three major draws for the Eagles to Birdies major fundraiser will be conducted during the evening.

Sunday September 22 will see the Dalhousie District Junior tournament being conducted at Euroa and the course will be closed so green fee players will need to play Saturday this weekend.

Friday September 27, there will be a Grand Final holiday event will be a mixed event with an 11.30am start, so bring out your footy colours and have some fun.

Also coming up during the school holidays on Friday October 4 there will be a junior golf clinic open to juniors aged 6-16 years at 9.30am and conducted by Reanna Blake PGA professional.

Golf gear will be supplied if required.

Later that day there will also be a Men’s and Women’s Clinic open to adults at 10.30am.

The entry point for these events is Gail Ph 0417 329 807

U14 Girls 1 33defKorumburra127

(TopScorers:E.O’Neill9,M.Hanley8,A.Gray6)

U16 Girls 1 38defbyCamberwell239 (TopScorers:E.Napier11,E.Mercieca8,L.Wright6)

U16 Boys 1 38defbyDandenong349

(TopScorers:S.Kain21,A.Hamill5,S.Wright4)

LITTLE GOLFER, BIG DREAMS: Sean McQuillan practices diligently.

Euroa hosts a memorable opening and social day

EUROA BOWLS CLUB

THE bowling season for 20254/25 officially opened on Saturday in what could only be described as winter like conditions however this did not deter our bowlers with forty-two participating in an enjoyable afternoon comprising three games of six end two bowl pairs and a magnificent afternoon tea.

President Richard Noble welcomed all and introduced our guests for the day in Marcus Mackrell from BD Northeast Electrics, Baeden and Jill Douglas from Douglas Builders and Grace Kenworthy Goulburn Valley Bowls Division President.

Grace said a few words on behalf of the GVBD, Marcus delivered the first jack and Baeden sent down the opening bowl.

There wasn’t a three-game winner – four sides finished with two wins and a draw –so winners were drawn by lot, and I am pretty sure that the lucky bowlers were Don Steers, Ross Withers and President Grace.

Sandra Cocking was again on hand with her raffle Sam Barkly scored the meat tray with Barry Hatchman and Mart Steen securing the chocolates.

Bill Sargood has put togeth-

er a video highlighting past members and past events that form part of our club history, and this was played on the big screen during the afternoon.

This trip down memory lane was enjoyed by all and we thank Bill on the excellent job done.

Members may have also noted a new clock above the bar area which also looks fantastic.

James Dunn donated the clock so please pass on your thanks the next time you catch up with him.

Last Wednesday 24 bowlers participated in Social Bowls in what were much more pleasant conditions.

We had two three came winners, with the outstanding performance came from the dream team of Bill Sargood, John Edward Groat and Tony Tomson wo finished on plus 17.

It was great to see Tony back on the green on a day that also saw David Lewellyn return to the fold.

Former member Wayne Tiller was in the district and

joined us for the day and we also welcomed a new bowler in Jeremy Boruch.

It looks like we will also have some more new members to welcome in the coming weeks which is a real positive for our club.

A reminder that member subs are now due and payable and can be paid by way of EFT to the club Bank Account, over the counter at the GMCU or directly at the club.

Numbers are filling fast in the Nifty 50 for this year so get in quick for your chance to win.

The board has decided to house the mat and jack trolley in the shed used to house the bar whilst the clubrooms were being renovated following the 2022 flood.

There is a box that contains the items needed for bowlers to practice at any time but if you would like to access the gear on the trolley please contact Lotti’s Dad, as Lotti has generously donated the means by which this can be achieved.

All the best and bowl well.

ON Sunday September 8 we invited new and second year bowlers to come along to learn a bit about bowls without the distraction of others on the green.

One of the aims is to ensure that certain matters of etiquette are introduced at an early stage.

On September 15 we held our Opening Day, where the Club Champions Leanne Russell-Jones and Harry Daley rolled the Jack and the first bowl respectively.

While the wind was bitterly cold the sun was out, and the green was fast, credit to our Greenkeeper David Underwood, with a small amount of help from others.

After a game of bowls on two rinks involving eight or nine of us, we enjoyed afternoon tea and camaraderie in the warmth of the club rooms.

Next Sunday we will have barefoot bowls, weather permitting, and the following Sunday September 29 we will conduct training with bowling drills to build confidence and skills.

Sadly, we are losing the Daleys who are returning to Moira Bowls Club, closer to their home in Benalla.

If anyone is keen to play on Tuesdays and not already on our list, please contact Graham Crawford on 0492 956 463.

Frewdenstein
KICKING OFF THE SEASON: Marcus Mackrell rolls the Opening jack at Euroa Bowls Club.
VIOLET TOWN BOWLS CLUB LEANNE RUSSELL-JONES

Terip triumphs over Mansfield in semifinal tennis showdown

UNDER cloudy skies

Mansfield faced top side Terip in their semifinal clash and Benalla met Euroa alongside them in Mansfield last Monday.

Many enjoyed watching the spectacle of the highquality matches.

Terip’s Cindy Hayes, Rebecca Lyttle, Frances Lawrence and Phoebe Macdermid began with a burst; by winning one opener 8-2 but Mansfield’s Peta Kelly, Michelle Pigdon, Keira McDonagh and Clare Beecham took the other 8-4.

The next pairs were also split, and only four games separated the teams.

Powerful ball-striking and clever courtcraft were on display in entertainingly lengthy rallies.

Terip stamped their authority in the final sets, winning both, 8-2 and 8-6, to book their spot in the grand final next week by defeating Mansfield 4/42 to 2/30.

Euroa jumped out of the blocks against Benalla in their semifinal, winning both opening sets.

Faye Mollison, Lyndall Bigland, Chris Ellis and Julie

Harrington were keen to make a statement with power hitting and precise placement.

Benalla warmed up, fought back hard and took two of the next three sets.

Kate Campbell and Maureen Jewell won their set in a tiebreak while Claire Sharp and Helen Checucti were unlucky to lose theirs in a tiebreak.

The longest match of the day needed a third tiebreak to decide a winner, and Euroa’s Lyndall and Chris won that one.

After an amazing match of inspirational tennis Euroa booked their spot in the grand final by winning 4/43 to 2/36.

Afterwards in the packed clubhouse, players and their supporters reflected on their season, made plans for the summer competitions, and found nourishment.

Since 2016 Terip have won the flag for the past six finals.

After many attempts Euroa will again challenge Terip’s dominance for the premiership next Monday the September 16.

The Grand Final match will start at 10.30am in Euroa.

Euroa Cricket Club gears up for 2024-25 season with renewed optimism

AS Euroa Cricket Club prepares for the 2024-25 season, President Carl Norton shares an enthusiastic update on the team’s outlook and developments.

With a young squad poised to advance and experienced leadership stepping up, the club is ready for an exciting year ahead.

The club is looking forward to leveraging its young talent, who have gained valuable experience from last season.

“We’re thrilled to have a group of young players who did well last year and are now a year older and ready to improve further,” said Norton.

Despite challenges in recruitment, Norton remains optimistic about the team’s prospects.

Andrew Squires will lead the team as head coach this year.

Norton explained, “We faced a visa issue with our new coach, so we’re fortunate to have Andrew Squires step up.

He’s a stalwart of the club and will be supported by senior and former players.

We’re excited about the stability and leadership he brings.”

While recruitment has been challenging, Norton emphasized the club’s commitment to developing its existing players.

“Our focus is on nurturing the young talent we have.

We’re excited about their potential and believe they will be key to our success this season,” Norton noted.

Player numbers are stable, but Norton expects improvements as other sports’ seasons wind down. “

We’re hopeful that as we approach the season, we’ll have a clearer picture of our team’s composition,” he added.

Reflecting on last season, Norton highlighted the success of the junior players despite some commitment issues in the lower grades.

“The development of our juniors was a huge success.

We’re working to address

the commitment issues and build on that momentum,” he said.

Pre-season training has been rigorous, with sessions focusing on fundamental skills.

“We’re emphasizing sticking to the basics—batting within the V and bowlers consistently hitting the top of off stump.

This approach will set us up for a strong start,” Norton explained.

The club will host a Melbourne Cup Day social function, adding a festive element to the season.

Training sessions continue through September, with the team gearing up for the season opener against Waaia.

Norton is optimistic about the team’s readiness, stating, “We expect to be at full strength for our first game, barring any lingering injuries.”

Several younger players are expected to make significant contributions.

Norton highlighted Cooper Goodall, who had an impressive debut season, and Ethan Saxton, returning from injury.

“Cooper had a standout season in D grade, and we’re excited to see him build on that.

Ethan is another player to watch, especially as he returns from injury.

Walter Jackson, Archie and Ollie Wilson, Jack

Walters, Cale Robertson, and Leo Murphy are also developing well,” Norton said.

The club plans to field three senior teams—A, B, and D grade—along with U/12s and U/16s teams.

Norton acknowledged the uncertainty around the U/14s team, stating, “We’re working towards having a U/14s team, but it depends on registration numbers. We’re encouraging signups and hoping to field a strong squad.”

With a blend of promising young talent, experienced leadership, and a focus on development, Euroa Cricket Club is poised for a successful 2024-25 season.

TERIP’S GRAND FINALIST: Frances Lawrence, Rebecca Lyttle, Cindy Hayes, and Phoebe Macdermid celebrate their semifinal victory, ready to defend their title in next week’s grand final.
EUROA: Lyndall Bigland, Faye Mollison, Julie Harrington, Chris Ellis. PHOTO: Rhonda Carpenter
MANSFIELD: Keira McDonagh, Peta Kelly, Michelle Pigdon and Clare Beecham. PHOTO: Rhonda Carpenter
BENALLA: Kate Campbell, Claire Sharp, Helen Checucti and Maureen Jewell. PHOTO: Rhonda Carpenter

Euroa A Grade’s second half surge powers them to the Grand Final MATCH REVIEWS

Euroa 56 defeated

Mooroopna 40

THE déjà vu continues from 2023 with the Magpies again meeting the Cats in the Preliminary Final.

Euroa had suffered two defeats to Mooroopna this year, but the girls had their eyes on the prize, determined to prove they deserve to be playing next week.

Early nerves saw a couple of missed opportunities which the Cats capitalised on and got to a quick lead of six goals.

Ellie Warnock and Tylah Marchbank were working together well in the defence goal ring, creating a couple of turnovers seemed to give the Magpies the shake-up they needed, and they settled to get some nice transitions into the goal ring.

Mia Sudomirski and Olivia Morris found their mojo and the goals were coming to bring the deficit back to four at the first break.

Mooroopna 13, Euroa nine.

Euroa started the second quarter with a confidence and the quick movement by Kellie Davidson and Hollie Reid into the goal circle was making it difficult for the Mooroopna defence to stop the drive.

Mia and Olivia working the goal ring fighting for that prime position and goaling with accuracy.

Sophie Owen and Tylah started to pick off those allimportant opportunities to give Euroa possession, and at half time Euroa had turned the game around leading by two. Mooroopna 22, Euroa 24.

Start of the third and it was clear from the first whistle that the Magpies had their tails up, with great defensive pressure all over the court, Mia and Hollie getting turnovers showing the defence they could get in on the act.

Ellie and Tylah in the defensive circle were really making it difficult for the Cats to find a way in and intensity on the rebounds really put Mooroopna’s goalers under pressure forcing errors.

The Magpies were really valuing possession of the ball and patience was shown when needed, Kellie and Hollie feeding back if needed giving Mia and Olivia time to work and get the ball to the post.

Euroa had extended their lead to eight at the last break.

Mooroopna 33, Euroa 41. Final quarter and Euroa

were well aware they could not rest on their laurels, at this level the game can change quickly, but the Magpies came out firing, confidence growing, backing each other up and trusting every player to do their job.

Eliza Hoare coming on got into the mix with an early pick up and the team appeared to go from strength to strength finishing the game with a 16-goal win.

Next week we hope to stop the 2023 mirror image as we again take on Echuca in the Grand Final, this year hoping to come out the victors.

Come along to support the A and B Grade in the Grand Final for what has been an exceptional year for netball in Euroa.

No individual best players this week as it was a great team effort.

B GRADE

THIS Sunday, Euroa’s B Grade team will attempt what so few netball teams have managed before for the Euroa Football Netball Club. In a club whose history is peppered with success on the football field, netball glory has been so much harder to achieve.

Coaches Kellie Davidson and Sarah Ternes know the pressure on their team is great, and that premierships are difficult to win, but would also be feeling confident in the way their team has developed over the season.

A mixture of youth and experience, visionary and tactical, emotive and calm, the Magpies have the perfect team to take the last, ulti-

mate step in this year’s competition.

Euroa’s defence is literally the envy of the competition, and has been since the first round.

Comprising of Kelly Hill, Grace Warnock and Brodie West, Euroa’s dynamic trio have systematically, methodically and happily taken down all that come before them.

Their desire to win is strong and is reflected in the way they thrown themselves physically into all contests, over all areas of the defensive court.

Weeks of playing together has seen a telepathic system of communication develop between Grace, Kel and Brodie, they seem to know exactly where the others are at all times, and what they are going to do next.

Constant encouragement and support for each other is the hallmark of their play, plus a justified pride in thwarting opposition goalers.

The Magpie’s midcourt consists of Millie Watson, Caitlyn Elliott and Bree Sudomirski, three of the sweetest, most relaxed people you will ever meet off the court, and three of the most determined and ferocious netballers on it.

Blessed with an ability to run their opposition off their legs, Euroa’s ‘mosquito fleet’ has been constantly refining and developing over the course of the season, and have hit their peak as a unit right when it matters most.

Their vision up and down the court, and precise passing skills are things of beauty, as is their willingness to embrace the physi-

cality of the game.

Many an opposition player has come undone trying to get the best of these girls, they just do not give up, and they do not stop.

The goalers are Sarah Ternes, Molly Redfern and Bree Poole, who have melded into an elite part of the team.

Led by the experienced Sarah, the three goalers have spent 20 weeks working together in congested goal rings, battling desperate defenders.

Boasting precision and composure, the Magpie goalers repeatedly demonstrate why they are considered some of the best in the league.

Their ability to stay calm under pressure and make crucial shots at key moments is instrumental in their team’s success.

The regular high fives and smiles between these three players is evidence of their tight bond, and the pleasure they get in rewarding their teammates hard work all over the court.

And when you add emergency players Sienna Trotter, Megan O’Bree and Tess Walker to the mix, plus the chance to celebrate Molly Redfern’s 100th game for the club, Euroa’s side looks formidable going into the last game of the season.

Grand Finals are a big deal, to reach them is an achievement in itself, but the Magpies are fully aware the job is not done yet.

The EFNC is very proud of this group of players and wish them all the very best for Sunday.

As professional golfer Gary Potter so eloquently

states in the movie “Happy Gilmore”.

“Lotta pressure.

You’ve gotta rise above it. You gotta harness in the good energy, block out the bad.

Harness.

Energy. Block.

Bad.

Feel the flow”

And simply enjoy the moment, because they just don’t come along that often.

GO PIES.

B RESERVE By SALLY REDFERN Rochester 41 defeated Euroa 33

DESPITE the blue skies and sunshine at Deakin on Saturday, there was more than a slight hint of winter in the icy breeze that chilled spectators lining the available viewing space to watch the preliminary final between Euroa and Rochester.

Nerves can affect people in different ways, and for the first quarter it looked like Euroa were suffering more badly from nerves than Rochester.

Errant passes, bad decisions and some clumsy contact all combined to unsettle the Euroa players, and their coaching bench.

The Tigers were quick to capitalize on the Magpie mistakes, getting goals on the scoreboard and settling into a rhythm.

Before long, they held a sizeable lead, and things were not looking good for Euroa at all.

But the B Reserve Magpies have proved time and

time again this season that they are not a team to give up, and they should never be underestimated.

Despite trailing into the half time break, their third quarter was the stuff movies are made about, and they got themselves right back into the contest.

Megan O’Bree, Ruby Watson, Chloe Salter, Maddi Murray, Bella Ogen and Laura Frewen worked tirelessly in the midcourt, trying to find space in what was a ridiculously crowded area.

Frequently forced to throw backwards to make their way forward, Euroa started to show patience and a more deliberate approach to moving the ball down the court which quickly paid dividends.

For what used to be classified a ‘non-contact’ sport, goalers Marnie Burton and Sienna Trotter were on the receiving end of some fairly brutal defending.

Add a windy day and Deakin’s notoriously bouncy goal rings, and it was going to be a difficult day for all goalers.

Thankfully Euroa’s goalers kept persevering with the conditions, rebounding with determination, and giving as good as they got in the bumping department.

Tess Walker, Keely Wright, Tez Sutherland and Demi Walker were resolute in defence, putting up a brave fight against the on-going Tiger attacks.

Their combined efforts resulted in a number of turnovers which saw the gap decrease to only five goals in the last quarter, a remarkable achievement when you consider the lead they had clawed back.

It was a tight battle in the final quarter, with every player on the court giving their all.

Unfortunately for Euroa, Rochester managed to hang onto and then increase their lead, ending up winning by eight goals.

Congratulations to all the players, coaches and support staff involved with the B Reserve team.

There is a fair chance that half-way through the season, TAB would have paid big odds on Euroa playing in a Prelim Final, and yet hard work, commitment and a shared love of netball saw this team not only make the finals, but they also absolutely deserved to be there.

One small step short this year provides a lot of incentive for next year.

B Reserve now get to put their considerable vocal skills to use next weekend to support their A and B teams in the Grand Finals. Go Pies.

DOUBLE TEAMED: Ellie Warnock and Tylah Marchbank apply relentless defensive pressure.

EUROA TO CHALLENGE TERIP IN TENNIS GRAND FINAL

Violet

Town under 15’s

overcomes in thrilling extra time Grand Final Victory

AFTER the convincing win in our first game this season, coach Tim Ross declared, “I think we have a team that can go all the way this season”.

It was a bold statement at the time, but forward 16 games and suddenly that statement was about to be put to the test.

In near perfect conditions in Mooroopna, we faced off against Dookie for the fifth time this year, and with the scoreline sitting at 2-2, we knew if we were going to win, we’d have to play at our best.

The team started strongly and were dominating early, Ryder Robertson was injured three minutes into the first quarter, and with him on the bench getting attended to, it was Koby Ross snagging the team’s first goal at the eight min mark.

A couple of missed opportunities didn’t see reward for effort, and we ended the term with a nine-point lead.

Dookie had shots on goal early but missed, but with three minutes to go in the half, they finally converted, and we were back to an even game.

Step up Angus Richardson and Billy Dyer, who’s ruck and roving combination has grown with every game and after the perfect tap, Billy burst through the middle to deliver the ball onto Koby’s chest, who kicked truly and at half time we held a six-point lead.

With Ryder on one leg, the half time instruction was to just get it into him and trust him to get the job done.

With him kicking two goals for the quarter plus one to Will Stevens, we were looking good, until Dookie as they had done during the last few games scored right on the siren and going into the last quarter we held a 12-point lead.

With some undisciplined play over the game so far, Tim urged the boys to listen to umpires, and don’t let them score especially from free kicks or 50-meter penalties.

Dookie started well, kicking the opening goal and for the rest of the quarter we traded misses.

With a seven-point lead and 40 seconds on the clock, it seemed victory was within grasp, but to their credit Dookie’s never say die attitude stepped up and with a miss and then goal on the dying second of the game, suddenly we were all tied up 35-35 at full time.

With five minutes each way of extra time called, the stress level in the grandstand grew to a new level, unsure how this was going to go.

In the first extra period, our players were starting to cramp, and we needed everyone to raise their game.

Suddenly co-captain Nate Nicholas set the crowd alight with a great running goal to again gain the ascendancy.

A couple of other misses gave us Violet town a eight-point lead and whilst Dookie again attacked late, this time we were not going to be denied victory, finishing with a seven-point win.

Angus Richardson was named best on ground and the award was thoroughly deserved.

Congratulations to all the boys for a great team effort.

We are so proud of you.

FINAL SCORE: Violet Town 6.7.43 defeated Dookie 5.6.36.

Best

Netballers set for decisive match-ups

AS the grand final weekend approaches, the Euroa A and B Grade netball team are ready and raring to go.

A story of two different tales, A grade had to slog it out against their recent arch-rival Mooroopna, with B grade having the weekend off to rest and prepare.

B grade coach Sarah Ternes is confident her team is in top form for their showdown against Mooroopna this Sunday.

“We’ve had a solid week off, which has given us a chance to rest and recharge,” said Ternes.

“We trained with A Grade and B Reserve last week and will train together again before the weekend.

The team is feeling fresh and ready for the challenge ahead.”

Euroa’s B Grade has faced Mooroopna before in the finals and expects a fierce contest.

“We played them in the first round of finals, and it was a tough, fast-paced game.

I don’t anticipate many changes in their lineup, so we’ll likely see the same match-ups we’ve grown familiar with,” Ternes explained.

One key advantage for Euroa is the health of their squad.

“We’re fortunate to have no injuries or niggles.

We’ll take the same lineup that’s carried us through the finals, and I’m thrilled with the way the girls are playing.”

Among the standouts for B Grade are the defenders, a unit that has been almost impenetrable throughout the season.

“Our defensive lineup - Kelly Hill, Grace Warnock, and Brodie West - is absolutely unstoppable.

They’ve had the least goals scored against them all year, and

we’re counting on their incredible form to help carry us through the grand final,” Ternes said.

Team chemistry has been a driving force behind Euroa’s success this season. “The morale is sky-high. We’ve enjoyed playing together all year, and our chemistry has only strengthened as we’ve gone deeper into the season. The group chat is always buzzing, and the girls genuinely enjoy each other’s company, which has been fantastic for our on-

court play,” Ternes shared. Ternes knows that success in the grand final will depend on clean, consistent netball.

“If we can limit mistakes, protect the ball, and convert our opportunities, we’ve got a great chance of taking the win.”

Euroa A Grade, meanwhile, has faced and overcome their own set of challenges this season.

After losing to Mooroopna Cats twice earlier in the year, the team stepped up in the preliminary final, defeating their rivals when it mattered most.

Euroa initially struggled, missing early opportunities and allowing Mooroopna to take a six-goal lead.

However, the Magpies showed resilience, valuing possession and exercising patience.

Through steady control and teamwork, they gradually turned the game around, extending their lead to eight goals by the final break wining by 16 goals.

Unfortunately for B Reserve, they couldn’t secure the win and will bow out of the finals a week earlier than hoped.

With this victory, Euroa A and B grade moves on to the grand final against Echuca, eager to complete their redemption story.

players: Angus Richardson, Nate Nicholas, Koby Ross, Billy Dyer, Mason Butterworth and Kobi Fruend.
Goals: Koby Ross (two), Ryder Robertson (two), Will Stevens (one) and Nate Nicholas (one).
SMOOTH MOVER: Molly Redfern maneuvers the ball to keep the play flowing.
STANDING TALL: Liv Morris battles fiercely with her opponent, as A Grade secures their spot in the grand final.
PHOTOS: Raelee Jager

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