Euroa Gazette 190624

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Crime concerns voiced

RESIDENTS have attended community safety forums across the region to voice their concerns about the surge in local crime, with many people feeling vulnerable and demanding greater police presence in their towns.

Hosted by Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, the forums held in Broadford, Benalla, Euroa, and Locksley on June 12 allowed community members to speak about their experiences with the escalating issues of thefts, farm crimes, assaults, and family violence.

BY SHAUN McMAHON smcmahon@ nemedia.com.au

“I understand that several people in our region, whether it be in town or on farms, have been feeling more vulnerable to crime than usual in recent times and I’m so glad they were able to share their stories with us,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Hearing about the incredible efforts of households, farmers,

and businesses and what they are doing to keep safe was inspiring, whether it be reinvigorating their Neighbourhood Watch programs or increasing their property surveillance.”

In the Strathbogie Shire, criminal incidents are up 9.6 per cent with 56.6 per cent of cases remaining unsolved – up from 41.3 per cent at the same time last year.

At the forums Ms Cleeland was joined by Shadow Minister for Police, Brad Battin.

Mr Battin, a former police officer

himself, said resourcing wasn’t the issue.

“We have more police officers per capita in Victoria that any other state in Australia,” said Mr Battin.

“Resourcing isn’t the issue; it’s the allocation of those resources that’s the problem.

“The larger the increase in crime, the more people feel they can commit crime, and reoffending begins to occur once an area is identified as vulnerable.

■ Continued page 2

CRIME CONCERNS: Residents attended community safety forums last week, hosted by MP Annabelle Cleeland and attended by Shadow Minister for Police, Brad Battin,

voice their concerns about the surge in local crime. PHOTO: Supplied

Ongoing works on Vic Inland Rail project sites

AS the first four Victorian sites on the Inland Rail project charge strongly to the finish line, the construction of the remaining eight sites is coming into sharp focus with some changes to the proposed works at Euroa.

Inland Rail’s appointment of a construction partner for the remaining Victorian sites is on schedule for this month, with construction commencing in early-2025 and project completion in 2027.

The Beveridge to Albury (B2A) section of the 1600km freight rail project between Melbourne and Brisbane is progressing strongly at Wangaratta, Glenrowan and Seymour and completed at Barnawartha North with works to commence next year at Euroa.

Euroa residents and businesses in proximity of the works received a letter dated May 27, 2024, advising of a new planning amendment and environment addendum being required.

The letter from Inland Rail said as Tranche 2 designs progressed it became evident that additional land is required which is outside current planning approvals.

Submissions and feedback can be received up to June 24,

2024, by 2pm via email or post to Inland Rail.

Elsewhere the project is transforming Wangaratta Railway Station with a vastly improved station entrance, an expansive pedestrian underpass, a new west platform and the adjacent Green St bridge is being rebuilt to accommodate the passage of Inland Rail double-stacked freight trains.

At Glenrowan the old Beaconsfield Parade Bridge has been replaced with larger safer bridge that separates traffic and the large number pedestrians and tourists visiting the town’s many cultural and heritage sites.

Work continues constructing nearby footpaths, asphalting local roads, erecting lighting, and landscaping.

The foundations have been poured at the Seymour-Avenel Road site and the new replacement bridge is under construction.

The new bridge deck superstructure is being fabricated offsite, concrete abutments are underway and approach roads either side of the bridge are under construction.

Inland Rail has been called a nation building project that will transform how goods are moved around Australia, first connecting Beveridge to

Parkes, NSW, by 2027 before later connecting from Narromine, New South Wales, to Ebenezer, Queensland.

In Victoria, work will take place at 12 sites between Beveridge and Albury, to enable double-stacked freight trains to pass safely and ensure everyday products can be delivered faster and more reliably around Australia.

“There are always challenges on projects of this size, but the project is progressing well in Victoria,” Inland Rail Program Delivery Director B2A, Ed Walker said at the recent Victorian Transport Infrastructure conference,

“We have the complexity of working around an active train line so scheduling large, detailed work programs around two or three track closures per-year is critically important.

“With much of the work taking place in regional towns that have not faced construction sites of this size before, it is essential to bring the bring the community on the journey with us.

“Community and stakeholder engagement is a vital part of the construction program.

“We thank the local communities for their patience and understanding.”

Locals share experiences and ideas at community safety forums last week

■ From page 1

“Small town or ‘one-man’ stations are important and reducing their resources detracts community confidence.”

Mr Battin also explained that ongoing protests in Melbourne for the better part of this year has pulled resources away from smaller towns, with the effect of officers attending the CBD from larger hubs such as Seymour trickling down to smaller towns like Euroa.

Ms Cleeland spoke on the issue.

“This lack of support locally threatens to leave rural communities without a policing presence and sends a signal that the safety and protection of our rural communities doesn’t matter,” she said.

“Many of these small country towns are too far away from a major centre for police to respond to an emergency situation within a reasonable timeframe.”

At the forum in Euroa, residents spoke of their experiences, with many venting frustrations about police not wanting or being unable to attend to their reports, so much so that in some cases they’re not even reporting incidents.

Once person described police’s hampered ability (or reluctance) to attend their residence after reporting a bullet had been shot through their car windscreen.

Another praised the response they got from police, who attended their property from a larger hub station within forty minutes after they also

made a shooting-related report.

A Euroa businessperson described a break-in and theft they’d experienced, with the local police unable to attend due to renovations at the station rendering them immobile until the following day.

Crime prevention was also discussed, in particular ‘environmental design’, which aims to detract potential criminals by discouraging their presence or making them feel watched.

Rob Jamieson, president of the Ruffy Neighbourhood Watch, said their group was practising such measures to deter criminals, and he emphasised the value of dashcams in being able to “piece the puzzle together” in many instances.

Criminal incidents in the past 12 months have seen an increase across most of the region, with the percentage of those being unresolved rising too.

Within Benalla, criminal incidents have risen by 11.2 per cent while unsolved cases are up to nearly 39 per cent as opposed to 31 per cent last year.

In the Mitchell Shire, there has been an 11.6 per cent rise in criminal incidents, with 39.2 per cent of cases being unsolved – up from 30 per cent last year.

Ms Cleeland thanked everyone who attended the community safety forums across the electorate.

“I look forward to there being increase in police resources in our towns in the near future, so that everyone feels safe in their home, farm, and business,” she said.

ON TRACK: Ed Walker, Inland Rail Program Delivery Director Beveridge to Albury, addresses the Victorian Transport Infrastructure Conference. PHOTO: Supplied

THE REAL ISSUE: At the forums MP Annabelle Cleeland was joined by Shadow Minister for Police Brad Battin, who said police resourcing wasn’t the issue, but the allocation of resources that’s the real problem.

LOCAL EXPERIENCE: At the forum in Euroa, residents vented frustrations about police not wanting or being unable to attend to their reports, so much so that in some cases they’re not even reporting incidents.

PHOTOS: Supplied

‘Considerable interest’ at Stand for Council session

By SHAUN MCMAHON

STRATHBOGIE Shire Council

hosted a Stand for Council session last week, delivered by the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV).

MAV is delivering a number of information sessions for communities and prospective candidates across the state. In the session participants were provided information

about the role of local government, responsibilities of councillors, mayors, deputy mayors and CEOs, the election process and candidate requirements, and training and development opportunities.

Strathbogie Shire Administrator Peter Stephenson spoke positively of the event and said there was community interest in understanding the role of a councillor.

“It was good to support in partnership with the MAV hosting one of the Goulburn Ovens Murray Stand for Council Community and candidate information sessions,” said Mr Stephenson “The session was well attended by both in person and online residents, especially from our neighbouring councils including Benalla, Mansfield, Mitchell, Murrindindi, and Shepparton.

“The session was facilitated by the Municipal Association of Victoria’s Chief Executive Officer Kelly Grisby and there was a council exhibition space where each participating council provided their prospective candidates with information relevant to each council.

“This session showed me that we do have considerable interest in people wanting to understand the role of a councillor.”

Strathbogie’s Gecko Clan lands 2024

AusNet Community Landcare grant

LANDCARE Australia, in partnership with AusNet, recently announced the recipients of the 2024 AusNet Community Landcare grants with the local Gecko Clan Landcare Network being one of two successful Victorian recipients.

Together with the Phillip Island Landcare Group the Strathbogie group has been awarded $20,000 annual funding for the next three years.

The Gecko Clan Landcare Network is committed to connecting landscapes and communities in the Strathbogie Shire areas.

Recently, this area has been severely impacted by extreme weather.

“Severe weather and storms have affected our region resulting in significant loss of habitat connection and large old hollow bearing trees,” said Gecko Clan Landcare Network executive officer, Kerri Robson.

“This grant will enable our member Landcare groups to mitigate the impacts of this loss by supplying plants, paddock tree guards and nest boxes to local landholders.

“We are very grateful for the support provided by the AusNet Community Landcare Grant.”

To address this, the Gecko Clan Landcare Network will coordinate the supply of 6000 locally indigenous plants, 200 paddock tree guards, and 100 nest boxes to local Landcare groups.

This initiative will protect and enhance an additional 12

hectares of land and support the community with their Landcare work.

Landcare Australia CEO Dr Shane Norrish congratulated the grant recipients and emphasised the importance of innovation and collaboration.

“This partnership will support two Landcare groups in Victoria to make a positive impact to local ecosystems, bio-

October

diversity, and community wellbeing,” he said.

“I’m excited to see the outcomes of this funding and how it will demonstrate the importance of partnerships in enhancing environmental stewardship within local communities.”

“We are pleased to be partnered with Landcare Australia,” said AusNet CEO, David Smales.

“I’m excited to see the community benefits that will flow from the grants we’ve announced today.”

Last week’s announcement follows the signing of a threeyear corporate partnership between Landcare Australia and AusNet which aims to fund community landcare activities within AusNet’s electricity distribution network across eastern and northeastern Victoria.

The partnership includes community grants, projects and corporate environmental volunteering activities which enable AusNet employees to get ‘hands on’ to support landcare projects, learning about local environmental issues, and encouraging collaboration with the community.

LEARNING: A recent biodiversity walk run by the Gecko Clan Landcare group.

PHOTOS: Supplied

TREES GALORE: One of many plantings undertaken by the Gecko Clan Landcare Group.

Extraordinary Council meeting – 25 June

An Extraordinary Council meeting is scheduled to be held on Tuesday 25 June 2024 at the Euroa Community Conference Centre, 1b Bury Street, Euroa, commencing at 6.00 pm.

Business:

Adoption of the Draft 2024/25 Strathbogie Shire Council

Budget and Fees and Charges

Adoption of the 2021-25 Council Plan Update – Draft Year 4 Actions

1 July 2024 – 30 June 2025

The gallery will be open to the public. The meeting will be livestreamed at www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au and we encourage community members to watch the meeting via this option.

Temporary Cinema Closure

Euroa Community Cinema will be closed from 24 June for approximately eight weeks to freshen up the ageing toilet facilities, address smelly plumbing issues and provide a more hygienic experience for cinema patrons, conference room visitors and council staff.

Please keep an eye on our website, social media or email newsletter for further updates regarding our re-opening date.

Surely you know a Local Legend?

We have launched our Local Legends awards program, a new initiative to recognise outstanding volunteers across the community.

A Local Legend is someone who has made a remarkable voluntary contribution, served as an inspirational role model, and actively participated in activities that enhance people’s lives in Strathbogie Shire. Nominations for Local Legends are now open and will continue until 30 September 2024, with a special event at the end of the year to acknowledge the nominees.

For more information on volunteering opportunities or to find out how to nominate a local legend, visit www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/volunteers

Update Nagambie-Locksley

Road closure

Last week’s rain held up the sealing of this new section of the road but as soon as the road is sealed (in favourable weather), it will be open to all traffic. Then you will travel over the new bridge at Charles Creek, the realigned section of road with a new surface.

Tree Management Plan

There will be 350 new street trees planted in Avenel, Nagambie and Euroa over the next few weeks. This is part of our three-year Tree Management Plan and our Climate Change Action Plan. Varied species have been chosen by our Arborist to complement the soils and situations.

Careers at Strathbogie

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

• Manager Community Safety

Full Time, Permanent

SEO Contract + 11% superannuation

Flexible Work Arrangement

Closing date: July 1, 2024

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.

Request for Tender

Roads Maintenance – Panel of Suppliers

Contract Number 23/24-79

Strathbogie Shire seeks tender submissions from suitably experienced and qualified contractors to undertake various Road Maintenance functions, under a Panel of Suppliers arrangement.

Tenders received until 4pm (AEST) Friday 28 June 2024.

Asset Engineering, Design, Audit and Management Services

- Panel of Suppliers - Contract Number 24/25-05

Strathbogie Shire Council invites submissions from suitably qualified and experienced Consultancy for building, bridges, roads and General Asset Items to form a panel of suppliers. Council seeks Asset Management Professionals that specialise in:

• Structural Engineering

• Non-structural condition assessments

• Professional advice

• Review and auditing

• Data Management and asset condition reporting for municipal assets

• Scoping and Design Services

• Emergency asset assessment and rehabilitation design after extreme events

• Special charges scheme Policy Service

• Contract term is 3 years.

Tenders received until 4pm (AEST) Wednesday 10 July 2024.

Tenderers are referred to the Strathbogie Shire website: www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/tenders for the full Project Scope and tender submission.

Tenders may only be viewed and lodged online through the Tendersearch portal accessible via our website www.strathbogie. vic.gov.au/tenders. Strathbogie Shire does not accept hardcopy, email or fax tender submissions.

Euroa Farmers Arms Museum and Taungurung Council projects receive state history grants

THE Victorian government has provided funding which will ensure the history of Victoria is preserved by organisations at the heart of our communities to research, record and showcase local history.

The Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes congratulated two of the local winners, Euroa Historical Genealogical Society and Taungurung Land and Waters Council (TLWC) for their work.

Euroa Historical Genealogical Society has been awarded funding for their preservation of collections

at the Euroa Farmers Arms Museum project.

The TLWC has been awarded funding towards their Artefact Digitisation and Cataloguing project.

In total, 42 organisations will share in $350,000 of funding from the Labor Government’s Local History Grants Program.

The projects include newspaper and photograph digitisation works, memorial websites, digital histories, oral histories and archiving projects.

Applications for the next round of the Local History Grants Program and Victo-

rian Community History Awards will open later this year.

“For 22 years, the Local History Grants Program has ensured the stories and collections of Victoria’s history are not forgotten,” said Public Record Office Victoria director and keeper of public records Justine Heazlewood.

“We are pleased to see $350,000 shared among such worthy projects in 2024.”

A detailed list of all the projects funded through the Local History Grants Program can be found at prov. vic.gov.au.

Staff at Euroa Health roll up their sleeves for Blood Donor Week

THIS year’s National Blood Donor Week from June 10 to 16 celebrated the incredible sense of community blood donors create and the impact by giving life to so many with locals doing their bit.

Blood donors make up a life-saving tapestry that shows what can really make a difference when people come together.

Administration staff at Euroa Health have taken the lead to register Euroa Health as a Lifeblood team for the Australian Red Cross and their staff, volunteers and members are invited to register their next blood donation as part of #teameuroahealth.

According to Euroa Health the challenge is clear from its administration staff in throwing down this challenge... “catch us if you can” when making your next donation.

“Embracing Euroa Health’s status as a Lifeblood team, underscores one of our core values in teamwork,” said Euroa Health CEO Melissa Seymour.

“For those that can donate, our collective dedication enriches lives beyond our community and fulfilling our commitment to corporate social responsibility.”

GOOD CAUSE: Ann Jack Euroa Health staff member giving blood. PHOTO: Supplied

DOING GOOD: One of Euroa Health’s administration team members Vicki Poole doing her bit during National Blood Donor Week.

PHOTO: Supplied

Vandalism of tree plantings ‘totally mindless’

By SHAUN MCMAHON

IN A disheartening act of vandalism, several tree plantings along the creek in Euroa, part of the “Silver Banksia Rescue Project,” were severely damaged just before the King’s Birthday holiday.

The project, which aims to reintroduce the nearly extinct Silver Banksia tree to northern Victoria, involved seedlings planted last spring by students from St John’s Primary School.

Ray Thomas, who was involved with the project and has been working with students on similar initiatives for over two decades, expressed profound disappointment over the senseless destruction.

“About a dozen of the tree guards and their wooden stakes were totally wrecked, but I was thankful that most of the small seedlings survived,” said Ray.

“They broke the wooden stakes, smashed plants, ripped up a number of them and ripped leaves off.”

Ray said he discovered the damage while visiting the area to check on weeds and emphasised the importance of these projects for the students and the environment.

“The act undermines the efforts of young people working towards a better future and is a significant disappointment for the community,” he said.

“The kids, it’s their future, and it gives them a sense of hope; it’s valuable.

MP office to assist with digital driver licences

NATIONALS Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland’s office in Benalla will be assisting locals interested in adding their driver’s licence to their phone.

“If you need assistance, bring your phone, your physical licence and another form of ID, like a Medicare card, to my electorate office at 25 Bridge Street East, Benalla and my team will be happy to help,” Ms Cleeland said.

The digital license is currently only available for those with a full licence and for many of those in the community wanting to remain with their physical licence, this digital licence is completely optional.

Ms Cleeland’s office will be open MondayFriday, from 9am-4pm for anyone needing assistance with this, or any other concern they may have.

SENSELESS: Several tree plantings along the creek in Euroa have been severely damaged in a ‘totally mindless’ act of vandalism.

“Kids see me in the street and down the creek and ask, ‘how are our plants going?’”

Despite the setback, Ray remains committed to the cause.

“I think it’s vital that the students’ trees can grow on to reach maturity, so I’ve replaced the lost seedlings and the tree guards,” he said.

“Special thanks to St John’s for its tremendous support of local conservation work.”

Ray said he plans to report the

incident to the local council, hoping for continued support in preventing such destructive behaviour in the future.

“The main message needs to be one of great disappointment that people don’t value what kids have done for the future,” he said.

“We need oxygen, clean air, it’s totally mindless behaviour that flies in the face of anything good that other decent humans are trying to achieve.”

Door is still open for Strathbogie council’s school crossings

IN a recent response to questions made by Nationals member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland, the state government indicated a willingness to re-engage with the Strathbogie Shire Council when it comes to school crossings in the region.

The Strathbogie Shire Council made the decision to exit the program in March last year, saying it was the Victorian government’s responsibility to step up and deliver the program.

The crossings on state-operated roads at St John’s Primary School in Euroa, Euroa Primary, Avenel Primary School, and St Joseph’s Catholic School in Nagambie are all now supervised following state government involvement – with just the Nagambie Primary School, which operates on a council road, left without funding for supervisors.

Ms Cleeland put forward questions to the Minister for Local Government in April, asking about the school crossing program and what could be done to ensure all crossings are funded and kept supervised.

In a response, the minister said the Strathbogie Shire Council was still able to re-enter the program and ensure the remaining crossing receives the

necessary funding for supervision.

“The Department of Transport continues to advocate for Strathbogie Shire Council to rejoin the program and would welcome the shire’s return to the program should they wish to,” the minister said.

Ms Cleeland said all crossings in the electorate should be funded to ensure children are kept safe as they enter and leave their schools.

“Funding disputes between our councils and the state government are not helping anyone, and instead are putting the safety of our children at risk,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Conversations I’ve had with community members have made it clear that this is something worth fighting for, and we won’t stop until our children are safe.

“I’ve spoken with school staff, students, parents, council representatives, and concerned residents, as well as raised the issue in parliament, asking for a resolution of this issue.

“With stories of near-misses and speeding vehicles, it is imperative that this is not left too late.

“The school crossing supervisor program is critical to keeping our children safe.”

NOW OPEN 7 Days Mon – Fri 6.30am – 4pm Weekends & Public Holidays 8am – 3pm

Cnr High & Marie Streets

(Old Commonwealth Bank)

We look forward to seeing you.

SAFETY MATTERS: Nationals Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland at the Nagambie Primary School crossing.

PHOTO: Supplied

Rainfall

(Euroa Township)

There was 16mm of rain in Euroa (Castle Ck at Telford Bridge) for the week ending June 17, with 9mm falling on the 11th and 7mm on the 12th.

45-47

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NEWSPAPER DEADLINES:

- 3pm Monday

Community workshops opportunity to have a say about AusNet upgrade

THE Nationals member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland is encouraging locals to have their say at AusNet’s upcoming community meetings in Violet Town, Euroa, and Strathbogie with the last two being held Wednesday June 19 in Euroa and Thursday June 20 in Strathbogie.

The drop-in meetings are set to give AusNet an opportunity to share the electricity reliability improvements set for the region in response to months of significant power outages.

“Unfortunately, for several months our region had some of the worst power reliability in the state,” Ms Cleeland said.

“It is pleasing to see AusNet made the decision to commit to our region’s energy reliability with a substantial investment and community meetings.

“It remains so important for AusNet to hear from those impacted by these power outages and understand the very real effect this had on households and businesses.

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

Gazette itself or contact the council by email at info@presscouncil.org.au or by phone on (02) 9261 1930.

“I encourage everyone impacted by outages over the past year to attend one of these local meetings to hear more about what the region’s energy reliability will look like in the near future.

“It remains to be seen if these

solutions will make a tangible difference to the current system and its unreliability, however I am optimistic about upcoming changes and believe AusNet are taking the matter and the concerns of our community seriously.”

Ms Cleeland has contin-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Insulation of tents could solve issue

AS I’m sitting in front of my lovely warm gas fire reading about evil gas, I wondered if I used my old electric heater instead would that be better and help save the friends of the earth’s planet and then I read the article by the CFA that said over 100 fires are started by electric heaters yearly.

Doesn’t smoke inhalation also cause problems for asthma sufferers and wouldn’t fires from exploding batteries and solar panels and electric cars also cause problems for asthma sufferers?

As for upgrading rental properties it will only mean more owners will sell their properties.

May I suggest the government

bring in the insulating of tents.

Sandra Morris, Seymour

Neighbourhood Watch would help

I WANT to thank everyone who attended the community safety forums across the electorate recently.

We had an excellent turnout across the forums, held in Euroa, Benalla, Broadford, and Locksley on Wednesday.

I understand that several people in our region, whether it be in town or on farms, have been feeling more vulnerable to crime than usual in recent times and I’m so glad you were able to share your stories with us.

Hearing about the incredible efforts of households, farmers, and businesses and what they are doing to keep safe was

ued to advocate for improved power reliability in the region, holding multiple meetings with AusNet and the Minister for Energy and Resources in the months following the Euroa region’s power outages, sharing stories from the community about the impact the outages had.

Community members are able to drop-in during the below times to discuss the improvements with AusNet: Euroa Memorial Oval, Wednesday June 19, 2-6pm; and Strathbogie Memorial Hall, Thursday June 20, 2-6pm.

inspiring, from reinvigorating their Neighbourhood Watch programs to increasing their property surveillance.

Being able to share your stories will demonstrate how important community advocacy is, particularly when it comes to keeping our towns safe.

With 35 weeks of continuous protests in Melbourne, regional police keep getting dragged into the city to manage a protests and are taken from vital duties locally.

I look forward to there being increase in police resources in our towns in the near future, so that everyone feels safe in their home, farm, and business.

It was pleasing to see the media attention at the events, and I look forward to this contributing to those in charge taking notice of our regional communities.

One life so choose the right path

LIFE, we are given one whether we like it or not.

As babies we depend on our mums and dads for our needs, like feeding, changing nappies and other very important duties like a bedtime story, a kiss then lights out.

But infants have a habit of growing up to be teenagers and depending on the teachings of their parents.

Most of these teens will make grandparents and mum and dad proud.

It’s a tough world we live in but a lot better if they choose the right path to walk down.

Letters to the editor must be signed with the full name, address and contact telephone number of the author provided. Letters under 250 words are preferred and we reserve the right to edit letters to fit available space. Nom de plumes will only be published at the editor’s discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by this newspaper. Email editor@euroa-gazette.com.au

Dale Mann PHOTOGRAPHER Daniel Godsmark SPORT EDITORIAL

Annabelle Cleeland Member for Euroa

Ted More, Euroa

POWERING UP: AusNet workers installing reclosers as part of ongoing works in Euroa aimed at ensuring reliable energy supply.

PHOTO: AusNet

More say not less in renewable energy projects: wind farm

BY EMMA OLIVER eoliver@ nemedia.com.au

WITH state and federal policy driving a rapid transition from fossil fuels to renewable energies, regional communities are increasingly concerned about the impact wind and solar projects will have on their immediate environment and way of life.

Whilst there is a need to accelerate renewable energy approvals and projects, residents and landholders within the Southern Strathbogie Ranges along with Yea and surrounding districts are demanding stronger community consultation when it comes to proposed projects within the region and are asking developers to reconsider the location of the Seymour Wind Farm and its supporting infrastructure.

The Seymour Wind Farm is not in Seymour.

Spanning more than 50,000 hectares, the project’s 108 turbines will actually be dotted throughout the Strathbogies, with a number of local townships and small communities in proximity to the project area.

Fera Australia who are driving the project have been looking at two separate zones, with area under investigation bound by Avenel, Longwood, Ruffy, Highlands and Tarcombe.

Infrastucture will be built on privately-owned farmland, with around 12 landholders signing up to host wind turbines.

Andrew Lawson, director of Fera Australia said the project has been under investigation for the last few years, and confirms the name is under review with the company looking to rename it to more accurately reflect its location.

Members from the Strathbogies Responsible Renewables Community Group (SRRCG) place importance in projects being locationspecific, and that begins with clearly defining where proposed infrastructure will be situated.

In a recent survey the group conducted one of the key findings were low levels of awareness in regard to the proposed wind turbine and high voltage transmission line project.

Catriona King from SRRCG reported only six percent of respondents had been contacted by Fera directly, while 39 per cent didn’t even know about the project.

Ms King confirmed the group had been rectifying this situation, pro-actively engaging and informing the community on the project.

Along with awareness sessions, the group have conducted two surveys seeking community opinion, with a

total of 347 people registering their opposition.

The first survey was conducted in July and August of 2023, with a total of 201 respondents.

The survey was then reopened in April and May of 2024 in response to requests from the community in Yea and districts, who had only recently become aware of the project.

The group have just finished compiling data from this most recent survey.

“Ninety per cent of the 190 respondents objected to the whole proposal,” said Ms King.

“A further six per cent objected to some elements, and only two per cent supported the project.”

In the most recent survey, 95 per cent of respondents lived within or adjacent to the impact zone, with residents from Yea, Killingworth and Murrindindi the top three localities represented.

“Similar to 2023, the majority had relatively small landholdings, indicating a high proportion of ‘lifestyle properties’ in the region,” said Ms King.

“This is different from the predominantly large-scale agricultural settings where most other wind farms have gone ahead.

“The Southern Strathbogie highlands and Yea and surrounding districts is just an inappropriate location for a project of this scale.”

Ms King confirmed the most-commonly cited concern related to the impact on the environment, biodiversity and threatened species of flora and fauna.

However, this is just one of more than ten potential project impacts where the level of concern was registered as high.

Safeguarding the unique attributes and functionality of the landscape - from its

geology to hydrology - was of significant importance.

The visual impact of the turbines, transmission towers and powerlines, along with the negative affect on land values and tourism in the region was listed as a major issue.

Alleged poor community engagement by Fera and the resulting low levels of awareness also drew strong condemnation.

Respondents reported being unsure as to what would happen at the end of the project life with the decommissioning of infrastructure.

They also felt disruption and damage to roads during the estimated two-year construction phase was an issue, with remnant bushland on roadside verges important habitat.

And indicative of the tightly-knit community, 92 per cent of respondents listed the impact on community and neighbour relationships as very concerning.

Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland MP believes it is crucial the government listens to impacted communities and their concerns, employing a careful and considered approach to the roll-out of renewables.

“The rapid expansion of renewables across regional Victoria is undeniable,” Ms Cleeland said.

“We are seeing massive international companies come into our communities and use our prime agricultural land, operating in a way that has created distrust, anxiety, and uncertainty in towns like Seymour, Ruffy, Avenel, and everywhere in between.

“The Seymour wind farm is an example of extreme community division, with a project more than five years in the works that has still left the local community none the wiser about the location, environmental and cultural

impact, or regional benefit it will bring.

“When I last met with Fera executives, I was shown outdated regional maps with inaccurate property information.

“This old fashioned, heavy-handed approach is the Wild West when it comes to community consultation and is deliberately misleading, intimidating, and shrouded in secrecy.

“We’ve already seen the state government hell-bent on silencing regional communities by removing the planning panel process and third party appeals at VCAT when it comes to renewable energy projects.”

Ms Cleeland emphasised communities impacted by projects deserve more say in the matter, not less.

“We are talking about projects like the Seymour Wind Farm that could see the construction of 200-metre-tall turbines within two kilometres of your home,” she said.

“What happened to consulting regional communities?

“We know what can be achieved when we get the

transition to renewables right, where communities are involved and benefit from the change.”

VicGrid is a division within the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, responsible for coordinating the planning and development of the state’s Renewable Energy Zones and transmission infrastructure.

The goal is to deliver a long-term, state-wide strategic plan that involves early engagement with landholders and local communities, partnerships with First Peoples, fairer community benefit arrangements, and certainty for investors.

“New energy infrastructure is being planned carefully, in consultation with local communities and First Peoples at the heart of the process, as we make sure Victorians have access to reliable and affordable electricity while we transition away from coal-fired power,” said a Victorian government spokesperson.

The government con-

firmed they were mindful of building the right amount of energy infrastructure in the right places at the right time, to minimise impacts on communities, industries and the environment, and keep down cost to reduce impacts on power bills.

“The Department of Transport and Planning has not received a planning permit application for the Seymour Wind Farm,” said the spokesperson.

“Any proposal will be considered on its merits.”

However despite renewable energy projects being judged without prejudice on both the good points and the bad, Catriona King from the SRRCG questioned the weight given to community and environmental concerns during the approval process.

In the past ten years, only two renewable energy projects that sought state planning approval have not proceeded for various reasons including environmental concerns.

“With more and more applications being made, balancing the needs for renewable energy and supporting the preservation of agricultural land remains a complex challenge faced by many communities, not just locally within the shire, but across Victoria and Australia,” said Peter Stephenson, administrator for the Strathbogie Shire Council.

For council the input into any planning applications for renewable energy facilities is limited to consultation from the minister for planning and any pre-application consultation from the planning permit applicant.

“If an application is made, we hope that the Victorian government and the company will ensure there is broad and genuine community engagement with the opportunity for council and community to provide input for consideration,” Mr Stephenson said.

SEYMOUR WIND FARM OPPOSITION: Catriona King from Strathbogies Responsible Renewables Community Group (SRRCG) said consultation had been lacking with the project.

Save ambulances for emergencies during current high seasonal demand

AMBULANCE Victoria (AV) is experiencing significant demand due to seasonal illnesses circulating throughout communities and is asking Victorians to help our busy paramedics by saving Triple Zero (000) for emergencies.

Notified flu cases in Victoria have increased by 65 per cent in the past fortnight, while there are 361 COVID patients in hospital, 191 more than the same time last month – this includes 21 in ICU and eight of those ventilated.

AV director of emergency management, Justin Dunlop ,said the priority is to respond to the sickest patients who need life-saving care first, and during periods of high demand there may be delays for less urgent cases.

He said about one in five calls to Triple Zero (000) do not need an emergency ambulance response.

Mr Dunlop said if you don’t require emergency transport and are well enough to drive or have someone who can assist, consider taking yourself to a GP, Priority Primary Care Centre (PPCC) or emergency department.

“For non-life-threatening matters, you should consider using an alternative care pathway,” he said.

“While we will always have as many crews on the road as we can, every call that isn’t an emergency puts even further strain on them to reach those who need us the most.

“That is why we urge you to save Triple Zero (000) for emergencies and if it’s not lifethreatening – access alternative care options which are available all day, every day.”

The Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) is available at www.vved.org.au, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The VVED, which can connect you from anywhere in Victoria with emergency doctors and nurses, has been accessed by more than 290,000 Victorians since 2020.

People can also get care from their GP, pharmacist, or NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 606 024.

Mr Dunlop also reminded Victorians to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations as soon as possible.

Spirit Matters

PENTECOST AND SHAV’UOT

Christianity and Judaism are faiths that worship the same God, Yahweh; and why we often describe cultures/politics as Judeo-Christian. The difference is that Gods’ original people, mostly, haven’t believed that Jesus was their promised Messiah or acknowledged God, as three-inone, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, even though, in the beginning, Genesis 1:26 reads, “Let US make man in our image according to Our likeness”. However, today millions of Messianic Jews do believe in Jesus.

Most Jewish people are secular but others, believe a future Messiahleader is coming to restore peace on earth. Jesus Himself taught about His very different Kingdom to come on earth first until, the latter days of His foretold Second Coming, when He’ll save earth from destruction and be Sovereign. (Matt.24:22) From all nations, historically displaced Jews, are returning home to Israel, since the nation was miraculously re-established in May 1948. (Isaiah 66:8) Israel is a democratic, prosperous, powerful nation, who’s long-lost Hebrew language is also amazingly restored, all prophesied long ago.

Correlations and connections between Gods two peoples, the Chosen and the Church are many. One example, is from the Exodus story, and first Passover, when Israelites were commanded to sacrifice a lamb and place it’s blood over their doorways, so that the angel of death would pass-over them. This 10th plague finally caused Pharoah to release Jewish slaves. (Exodus 12:12) Around AD 33, Jesus Christ was crucified/killed, at the time of Passovers’ observance, and is referred to as the Passover Lamb. By Christs’ willing sacrifice, excruciating death, in shedding His blood, HE paid the ransom required to rescue mankind from sin’s death.

In the Old Testament, after every annual Passover, the people remembered the miraculous Exodus narrative, including the parting of the Red Sea. (Lev 23:15-21) Fifty days after the exodus, at Mt. Sinai, Moses had received Gods’ divinely inspired Ten Commandments, (Shavuot) concerning their responsibilities and boundaries. (Exodus 20) And Jesus, after His resurrection, before ascending to Heaven, told followers to wait in Jerusalem, until they’d encountered the Helper. The Son, now with His Heavenly Father, promised His Comforter. Fifty days later, this incredible event came upon the crowds, at Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit came powerfully in ‘flames and wind’ upon 120 disciples who preached to 3000 souls, speaking in strange languages with understanding, uniting them and forming Gods’ Church, standing strong still today. Pentecost fell on May 19th this year.

Christians are called to bless Gods’ Jewish people; “Comfort, O comfort My people”. (Isaiah 40:1-31) Shavuot brought hearing of Gods’ Moral Laws but Pentecost brought something even better, the Holy Spirits’ guidance living within hearts. The Old Testament is in the New revealed; the New Testament is in the Old concealed. (incomplete without the other) Anyone who believes and accepts Jesus Love & Forgiveness (Rom.10:9) will be saved and experience His Grace & Truth today and gain eternal life. This is called new birth or being ‘born-again’ in the Spirit. (John 3:1-13)

Euroa Baptist Church

(You-tube songs:

Managing burn injuries in children a priority

WINTER is a dangerous time for local children and Kidsafe Victoria has called on families to take action to reduce the risk of burn and scald injuries for children during the colder months, as part of their National Burns Awareness Month campaign.

New data from the Burns Registry of Australia and New Zealand (BRANZ) reveals that burns and scalds remain a significant cause of injury for children, with 735 children under 16 years of age admitted to burns units across Australia and New Zealand in 2022/23.

The home is the most common location where childhood burn injuries occur, accounting for 76 per cent of all incidents.

General manager of Kidsafe Victoria, Jason Chambers highlighted the importance of families taking steps to prevent burns and scalds, especially during winter which is a time of increased risk.

“Burns and scalds commonly occur when children are near someone who is preparing hot

foods or drinks,” said Mr Chambers.

“As the cold winter weather sets in and families look for ways to keep warm, it’s important that parents and carers take steps to prevent burns and scalds.

“Along with active adult supervision, this can include keeping children out of the kitchen –especially when food and drinks are being prepared – and placing hot food and drinks out of reach.”

Kidsafe Victoria is also raising awareness of some of the lesser-known causes of burns and scalds, including backyard fire pits and pizza ovens, which have increased in popularity.

“Open flames and heating elements such as gas and electric stove elements, matches, fireplaces, BBQs, fire pits, candles, and incense can cause fires and burns. To help keep kids safe, always supervise open flames and other heat sources, and keep children away from them”, said Mr Chambers.

First aid is critical.

Data from the BRANZ report shows that in 2022/23, just more than one quarter of children did not receive the ‘gold standard’ first aid treatment (20 minutes of cool running water within three hours of their burn injury) before they received hospital care, highlighting the need for continued first aid education.

Emergcare director Hendrik Gutwirth stressed the importance of families knowing the correct first aid measures to treat a burn or scald.

“If a burn happens, it’s critical that cool running water is applied to the burn area for 20 minutes,” he said.

“Items such as ice, oil or butter should never be used, as these can make the burn worse.”

“This is regarded as the ‘gold standard’ for burns first aid and can make a significant difference in the long-term outcome of the injury.”

As part of their National Burns Awareness Campaign, Kidsafe Victoria emphasised the importance of using the Remove, Cool, Cover and Seek

method for treating burns and scalds:

Remove – remove the child from danger; remove any clothing, jewellery, or nappies from the burn area unless stuck to the skin.

Cool – place the burn under cool running water for twenty minutes; never place ice, oil, or butter on the burn as these can make it worse.

Cover – cover the burn with a clean dressing.

Seek – seek medical attention if the burn or scald is on the face, hands, lap, or feet, is bigger than a 20-cent piece, or is blistered.

For more information about National Burns Awareness Month and resources on burns prevention and first aid for children, please visit www.kidsafevic.com.au/home-safety/ fire-safety-burns-and-scalds/ Parents and carers can book into one of Kidsafe and Emergcare’s first aid courses by visiting www.kidsafevic.com.au/ new-parent-hub/first-aid-courses/

Ambos to step up action for new EBA

PARAMEDICS and ambulance officers have voted in favour of escalating industrial action in their pursuit for a new EBA.

Members working in patient transport, communications centres, air ambulance, triage services, rosters department, management, and education will be banning practices and refusing various administration and operational tasks, without affecting the safety of patients or the public.

Victorian Ambulance Un-

BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au

ion secretary Danny Hill said overtime remained a critical stumbling block in the push to improve work/life balance and longevity in the job.

“Ultimately paramedics want to reduce the amount of overtime they are forced to work every day,” he said.

“But AV (Ambulance Victoria) won’t let them go home,

not because they are responding to emergencies, they are responding to low acuity cases or ramped for hours in hospital corridors.”

Wangaratta paramedic Taylor Honey told North East Media earlier this year of the predicament of 10-14 hour shifts blowing out due to forced overtime and being unable to get home on time to see families and meet out of work commitments.

“A 14-hour night shift can turn into 16 hours and we really

want to make sure we’re alert and getting home and seeing other family members before they go off to work or school, or attend planned occasions,” she said.

“It doesn’t seem sustainable for a lot people and that’s why there is a large proportion of people who are unable to stay with the service.”

Ms Honey cited a study by RMIT and Swinburne that found one in five paramedics are looking to leave the service within the next 12 months.

”Revive Us Again” & “Maker Of The Wind” by Big Daddy Weave, “Passed Over” by Paul Kelly, “Amazing Grace” by Gurrumul & Paul Kelly; “Brighter Days” by Blessing Offor)

ON THE WAY OUT: Ambulance Victoria staff say they are having to work unsustainable hours and the burnout is impacting employee retention rates.

Be a Healthy Hero Book an appointment with your GP for a routine check-up.

of males aged 16–85 years report having issues with their at some point in their lifetime. 43%

of Australian males have 49%

, have shorter visits, and only attend when their illness is in its later stages.

males aged 15 and over include:

• suicide

• coronary heart disease

• alcohol or substance use/abuse

• colon and rectum cancers.

Source: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Better Health Channel

ANGLICAN CHURCH

Sunday 22nd June

Holy Eucharist

12.30pm St Dunstan’s Violet Town

Sunday 23rd June

Holy Eucharist

9.15am St Paul’s Euroa

Wednesday 26th June

Holy Eucharist

10am St Paul’s Euroa Enq: 5704 0330 www.anglicaneuroa.org.au All Welcome

BAPTIST CHURCH

31 Kennedy Street, Euroa

Sunday June 23rd, 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 June 23rd

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 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

Burkes Bakery branches out in out in Nagambie

Old School House, Clifton St Euroa

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

Enquiries: Aaron 0493 101 663

By DI GRANT

NAGAMBIE welcomed its newest business last Wednesday with the opening of Burke’s Bakery, an extension of the successful Euroa business, in a prime location for such a food enterprise.

Hannah Tuckett, co-owner of the new bakery was on hand with her new bakery staff members Megan Finn (manager), Ashleigh Aldous, Bree Merrifield, one Euroa bakery helper, and her mum Noelene Tuckett to welcome new customers.

It has taken a several months of renovations to have the premises ship shape for the new business.

Hannah and her family with professional workmen have worked hard to have the bakery open by mid-June.

“Lots of work has been undertaken by my family, friends, and tradies to get the shop up and running,” Hannah said.

Hannah and her business partner Rob Beanham purchased the 21-year-old Burke’s Bakery in Euroa two and a half years ago.

For some time, Hannah wanted to open a new shop at the old Commonwealth bank premises on the corner of High and Marie Streets, opposite Jacobson’s Outlook, overlooking Lake Nagambie.

Hannah was born and grew up in Nagambie where she attended Nagambie Primary School.

After completing her second-

NAGAMBIE NOTES

THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK:

I think it is good if one can learn something new each day.

PERSONALS: Happy 98th birthday wishes go to Muriel Andrea from her family, friends and Mother’s Union members.

Happy 70th birthday wishes go to Russell Neville and happy 77th birthday greetings go to Irene Keogh and Di Morrison.

Greetings for the next week go to Trish Stuart, John Yarwood, Blair Williams, Jayde Harvey, Bob Gilmour, Katherine Thomson, Nicholas Clarke, Loretta Leahy, Brendan O’Brien, Braeden Grant and Bethany Newton.

Happy 64th anniversary wishes go to Bev and John Fielden.

Sympathy goes to the family and friends of Dan Kennedy and to the family and friends of Bernadette Kostopulos who both passed away recently.

RETIREMENT NESTING TIME:

I have started my retirement nesting instinct time.

I have studied the pension and our finances situation and health and travel issues.

ary schooling at Euroa College, she decided to accept an offer of an apprenticeship at the Euroa bakery.

After finishing her apprenticeship, she was awarded outstanding final year apprentice, which put her into the running for apprentice of the year.

Rob Beanham lives in Strathbogie and has been a qualified baker for many years, having studied at William Angliss in Melbourne during his apprenticeship.

He has worked at various bakeries; the last was head baker at

a bakery down on the Mornington peninsula before returning to Euroa to work at Burke’s Bakery with Hannah.

When the opportunity came up to purchase the business, Rob asked Hannah to be his business partner.

Rob and Hannah will continue to work and bake in Euroa, with employees working in the Nagambie Bakery.

Both of them have a wealth of knowledge between them and the Euroa bakery just keeps getting better.

The pair are proud of baking

It has kicked in over the last fortnight.

It is similar to the nesting time some pregnant women feel just before giving birth to a baby.

At least I did feel that.

John and I have been nearly seven years in our village now.

A lot of stuff is still where it was placed so I have started sorting out the spare room, lots of papers, books, DVD’s, excess furniture, photos and getting rid of what we don’t need or want anymore.

So, we can have more space in our retirement.

Now I just have to convince John to do the same to his man’s cave room.

I said to him, you can have the same mess or junk, but make it tidier and it does not look as bad!

Now I hope when I re-sort all the junk we have accumulated

(much in plastic lidded storage boxes) I will remember where things are placed now for the next few years and maybe throw a lot more out.

Wish me luck.

KELVIN GROVE VILLAGE NEWS: Sunday, June 23. Village Christmas in June afternoon.

2-4pm in the village hall.

Our entertainer will be local singer John Smith.

Residents are asked to invite guests to come along and enjoy some Christmas novelty games, raffle, lucky door prizes, good music and fine food and fellowship.

A donation of Christmas goodies for afternoon tea would be appreciated.

Details contact Di Grant on 5794 1720.

Then on Sunday, October 21, the Euroa Citizens Band is coming to play for the residents and guests a band concert from 2pm in the village hall.

Donations of plates of afternoon teas would be

only the freshest products every day.

The Nagambie bakery will be open seven days a week just like Euroa.

Hannah, Rob and their team are dedicated to their craft of baking their delicious pies, cakes, pastries, sandwiches and rolls. There is always a new flavour pie of the month and a sweet. They are excited that they are now able to share their vast menu with locals and visitors to Nagambie.

A grand opening is planned in the near future.

appreciated so afternoon tea can be served during an interval in the afternoon’s performance. Contact is Di Grant 5794 1720 for information.

CHURCH NEWS: Anglican news: Sunday June 30. A combined service for the three churches of the Anglican Parish of Central Goulburn will be held at St Paul’s Avenel at 10.30am followed by lunch in the memorial hall.

It was very nice meeting with the members of our Nagambie churches on Friday, June 7 at St Johns for the bi-monthly POUR service.

The folk have been meeting for over 16 years I think, to pray for rain, seasonable weather and for our community, nation and world.

The next ecumenical services: Friday, August 2 by Nagambie Connect Faith Community UC, Tennis clubrooms; Friday, October 4, St.Malachy’s and Friday, December 6 St. John’s Anglican Church.

All at noon followed by bring and share lunch.

NEW BUSINESS: Megan Finn (left) new manager and Burke’s Bakery Nagambie co-owner Hannah Tuckett the day after it opened in mid-June.

Past time for unregulated tech platforms

RECENT calls for social media tech giants to be treated as publishers and subject to Australian media laws has increased debate on the social media platforms, and their negative societal effects experienced in a single generation.

It follows the eSafety Commissioner’s loss in the Federal Court against the social media platform X refusing to extend a ban on video images of the stabbing of bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel in a western Sydney church, with the judge stating an Australian ban ‘would be ignored or disparaged in other countries’.

According to Michael Miller, News Corp Australia’s executive chairman’s address to the Australian

Press Club, the government should take notice of what the majority of Australians want and legislate for social media monopolies including Meta, Tik Tok and X to play by Australian rules

Mr Miller proposed media platforms should require a ‘social licence’ to force them to deal fairly in markets and be liable for content in countries in which they operate, or risk being penalised or shut out.

The ‘social licence’ concept would include provision for anti-monopolistic digital markets, contribute funds to be spent tackling causal mental health, honour Australia’s News Media Bargaining Code, and apply penalties including crime

Introducing the new Avenel community website

AVENEL Active recently launched its Avenel community website at www.avenelactive.au to better meet the needs of locals.

The new website provides a central online space for information about Avenel and its many community organisations and clubs, local businesses and attractions.

“We heard during consultation for the Avenel Community Plan that residents want us to provide more information online,” said Avenel Active vice-chairperson Daniella Paidi. “New residents also told us a website would make it easier for them to find out about activities and organisations in Avenel.”

Avenel Active received a 2023-24 Community Strengthening grant from Strathbogie Shire Council to develop the website.

“We’re very grateful to council for their support and to Seymour website builders Out on a Lim who helped us develop the website,” said Daniella.

“Whether you’re a resident, a visitor, or simply curious about what Avenel has to offer, this website is your one-stop-shop for information, resources, and community engagement,” said Sue Scholz, Avenel Active committee member.

“We invite everyone to visit the new website and explore all that it has to offer.

“It is still a work in progress.

“We hope the website will build from here and become a valuable resource for connecting the community”.

Avenel Active would like to thank Avenel volunteers, community organisations and businesses that have provided content and images for the launch of the website.

Local Avenel organisations, clubs and businesses who would like to be represented on the website are invited to contact Avenel Active at www.avenelactive.au/ contact-us

sanctions where laws are broken.

Mr Miller cited recent Meta’s decision not to comply with the Media Bargaining Code and challenged it to bargain with legacy media in good faith.

He argued social media profits from bad behaviour including ‘evil videos’, bullying, con artists scams, and glamourising eating disorders.

Surveys indicate that 83 per cent of Australians believe major technical and social media companies should be subject to Australian laws, and 54 per cent would support a ban on a social media company that refused to

comply with Australia’s regulations and law.

The addictive nature of social media driven by ever more smart algorithms, continues to challenge all levels of society, leading to cyberbullying, anxiety, depression and not age-appropriate content.

Concerningly, the leading cause of death among Australians aged 15 to 24 is suicide, and mental health disorders among young people have soared by nearly 50 per cent in 15 years, coinciding with the introduction of social media.

Some experts blame social media for young people’s decline in mental health and others are asking social media companies to share their internal data on how their products

affect teenager mental health.

In response parents are being urged not to provide smartphones to children under 12 and restrict social media accounts under 16; school principals are moving to ban the use of smartphones during school hours.

While social media can be a force for good and has changed the way we communicate and socially interact, big tech social media platforms making super profits are not going to selfregulate.

It’s past time Australia joined the EU, Canada and other like-minded countries to legislate for social media platforms to be on a level playing field with legacy media publishers and respond to consequential harm they cause.

Tax cuts for every taxpayer

LOCAL CONTENT: The new Avenel Active community website with something for everyone. PHOTO: Supplied

Region’s late autumn rain may still come at a cost for cattle producers

BY KURT HICKLING

VETERAN local cattle producer Mike Willoughby, like many, was happy to see heavy rainfall in late May, but even with follow up rain he said the timing might be too late as many cattle producers face a potential uphill battle on the farm and at the market.

With the autumn break classed as a disaster for some, a lack of rainfall and drier than average conditions have made circumstances very difficult with cattle producers being forced to dry seed and continue to purchase hard feed, driving up costs and reducing margins at the store sales.

Mr Willoughby, who has been on the land for 55 years and breeds Angus steers on his 200 acre property at Hansonville, says there are a number of current challenges that cattle producers are facing that will not be going away in a hurry.

“The dry autumn period is one of the issues why the cattle prices are down,” he said.

“Further to that, fuel prices, feed prices and cartage costs are all up which creates pressure on farmers by closing the profit gap.

“With reflection of onfarm costings and a market that has not been strong for some time, it is really creating pressure on some producers who have been forced to sell due to no feed, feed costs or both.

“I have been fortunate

A CHALLENGE:

costs such as hard feed (inset).

enough not to feed out my stock which has kept costs down, however I am one of the lucky few in the district.”

Mr Willoughby said the late rain last month and hope more continues has not solved the problem for many producers, as there is no grass in paddocks de-

spite the application of dry sowing.

“The big problem with the rain coming late is that soil and ground temperatures are dropping rapidly more so on the frosty nights which is not ideal for some seeds that have been sown,” he said.

“As a consequence, the green shoots as they sprout will potentially be damaged because of frost and subzero conditions.

“Again, the autumn break with rain was our window as surface and ground temperatures are warmer giving the young plants a chance to

“Recent and short term predicted rain is not our quick fix.

“Local producers are in various situation with some having no affect on conditions and others who are feeling the pinch, however, farmers will maintain through winter with our primary goal which is to wait until spring where the weather will warm up and conditions improve.

“The issues at hand on the land play a role in how the current market plays out, with prices being steady but not a strong as they need to be.

germinate before the cooler months set in.

“Our property received 87mm recently and with another 30mm predicted this week which is very handy, but too little too late for some cattle producers who have nothing in paddocks right now.

“Again, with the autumn break having an impact as we move forward into winter, the market is very fickle at the moment being an unregulated market.

“As farmers, we work darn hard and try to adapt to variable change and must remain positive that the latter part of the year will swing in our favour.”

STILL

Cattle producer Mike Willoughby says the current outlook is uncertain for some, given the on-farm

MAIN PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

khickling@ nemedia.com.au

Fight for Euroa Goods Shed going to Heritage Council hearing today

EUROACONNECT is continuing its fight on behalf of the local community to save Euroa’s 150-year-old Goods Shed from demolition, with a Heritage Council Victoria hearing today set to determine a final outcome.

Following a recommendation from the executive director of Heritage Victoria that the shed not be registered as a place of statewide heritage significance, EuroaConnect was advised that its request for a hearing on the matter was successful.

The matter goes before a Heritage Council panel today via a video conference at 10am, for final determination.

“This will provide an opportunity for the true historic significance of the building to be demonstrated,” said EuroaConnect chair John Simpson AM.

“To be added to the Victorian Heritage Register, EuroaConnect must prove that the building is unique as the only remaining example of a building type, using construction materials and methods that were brought to Australia from the UK in the 1870s.

“We have expert advice, from well known local heritage consultant Deborah Kemp and others, that the Euroa Shed will meet the Heritage Council’s criteria

for registration. “And, we have been fortunate to secure the support of barrister Daniel Epstein, a specialist in planning and environmental law, to represent the

Euroa community on our behalf.

“We are confident that the panel will be provided with the facts they need to make a positive determination.”

Mr Simpson said that in addition to the technical information they had assembled, EuroaConnect was grateful for the contribution of those local people with lasting

memories of the shed and surrounding facilities, either as a place that serviced local trade, agriculture and early industries, or through the stories that their parents have

told of working or doing business at the shed.

“The many stories we have heard have allowed us to gain a fuller understanding of the human history associated with the Goods Shed and the vital role that it played in the development of our town and the broader Goulburn Valley and North East,” he said.

“Continuation of this fight is crucial to the proper redevelopment of the Euroa rail precinct, not only because of the direct historic significance of the Goods Shed itself, but because its retention will force the ARTC to reconsider the overall design of the area.

“With Strathbogie Shire announcing recently its project to develop a masterplan for the lands around the rail corridor, reassessment of the ARTC’s unimaginative concept plan for the railway facilities is desperately needed.”

Members of the public can attend today’s hearing, online, at: is https://teams. microsoft.com/l/meetupjoin/19%3ameeting_NjUxM TJjMGQtY2JkOC00YTMwLTg 0ZmUtODY4NTY4ZDMxYTB l%40thread.v2/0?context=% 7b%22Tid%22%3a%225094c 7a7-0748-466e-941e-72882c3 097ba%22%2c%22Oid%22% 3a%22f6865a4a-68bd-4e489f95-fe3da8cb977b%22%7d

PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

BY EMAIL BY PHONE 5723 0101

45-47 Railway Street, Euroa, Victoria 3666

Phone: (03) 5723 0101

Booking deadline:

12 noon Monday day prior to print.

Phone: (03) 5723 0101

Booking deadline: 2pm day prior to print.

Phone: (03) 5723 0101

Booking deadline: 3pm Monday day prior to print.

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BOND-ROWE, Julie Patricia. 7/12/1970 – 2/6/2024

Beloved wife of Brendon. Mother of Bridget and Angus. Sister of Rohan (dec) and Gary (dec).

Daughter of Patricia (dec) and Geoff (dec).

After almost three years of defying the odds with courage and love, my soulmate, our wonderful Mum and a friend has passed on to her next adventure.

Our heartbreak is softened knowing that Jules had such a profound impact on so many.

Her love, compassion and resilience were an inspiration to us and those around her.

The sadness we feel is beyond words and we know Julie’s light will shine on us forever.

~ All our love Brendon, Bridget, Angus and Moose.

MIFSUD, Saviour “Sam”.

Passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, June 9, 2024. Aged 76 years.

Devoted husband to Maree, father to Rebecca and Matthew, father-in-law to Alissa, grandfather to Dante and Rumi. Forever in our hearts.

WALKER (nee Jones), Olga Geraldine.

28/3/1937 - 14/6/2024

Beloved wife of Neil (dec).

Loved mother of Anthony (dec), Deb and Bruce McCormack, Andrew and Dianna, John and Nikki, Paul and Ian, and Peter and Kathy and families. Forever in our hearts. Reunited with Neil.

MIFSUD

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Mr Saviour “Sam” Mifsud will be held at the N J Todd Funeral Home - ‘Feehan Chapel’, 81 Baddaginnie Benalla Road, Benalla on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 commencing at 11am. Private cremation.

In lieu of flowers donations to Benalla Health in memory of Sam would be appreciated. Envelopes will be available at the Chapel.

The funeral service will be livestreamed, please go to the N J Todd website and follow the livestream link.

N.J. TODD

WALKER

The funeral service celebrating the life of Olga will be held at the Strathbogie Hall, Main St, Strathbogie on Monday, June 24, 2024 commencing at 1pm, followed by a burial at the Strathbogie Cemetery.

N J Todd Funeral Directors

Member AFDA

Servicing Euroa & District since 1937

Damien Feehan

Justin Feehan

The Annual General Meeting of the Strathbogie/ Euroa Angling Club will be held at 8pm, July 1, 2024 at the North Eastern Hotel. All welcome!

AGISTMENT

WANTED FOR CATTLE

Wanted for up to 12 head of cattle within Euroa and immediate surrounding district

Call Wayne 0408 506 675

JACK RUSSELL TRI-COLOUR PUPS

2 male, 1 female $1100 each Source ID: MB230031

Microchip numbers: 956000017032545

956000017031636

956000017029187 Ph 0400 671 577

PUCKAPUNYAL ARMY LIVE

FIRING RANGE

WARNING NOTICE

Puckapunyal Live Firing Range is described generally as that area bounded by SeymourTooborac Rd in the south, Heathcote-Nagambie Rd to the west, Rushworth National Park to the north and Northwood Rd in the east.

Trespassing is strictly prohibited and very dangerous. Any person found within the boundary of the Puckapunyal Live Firing Range will be subject to prosecution.

Unexploded bombs are extremely dangerous and can be found throughout the range.

Live firing occurs generally between the hours of 5am and 11pm, however on occasions these timings may be extended. Live Firing may result in large loud explosions, continuous heavy machine gun fire or at times RAAF bombing.

An Increase in Tempo will occur from Wed 19th June 2024 to Wednesday 26th of June 2024. Inquiries regarding Live Firing on the Puckapunyal Live Firing Range should be addressed to: RANGE CONTROL Malaya Road Puckapunyal, VIC. 3662 Phone (03) 5735 7769

2018 Subaru MY18

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Essential tips for a successful trek: Lessons from Nepal

By DAN GODSMARK

COMPLETING my first trek in Nepal has not only been awe-inspiring but lifechanging. Immersing myself in the rich cultures and values of the Nepali people has profoundly impacted me in ways I never anticipated.

Deciding to embark on this adventure was undoubtedly the best choice I made in 2023.

Despite the challenges and sacrifices, I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything.

In this final trekking article, I’ll share my tips for a successful adventure.

As an ultimate weekend warrior, I embarked on a 14-day trek, lived above 5000 meters for an extended period, and even climbed Lobuche East - all as a total novice. Thanks to the exceptional guidance from Josh Hamill of Better Hiking and the support of the tour company Scenic Nepal Treks, I felt like I thrived and thoroughly enjoyed my journey.

However, for many, the region can quickly become a nightmare without proper preparation.

Join me as I delve into the lessons learned and the essential tips for anyone considering this incredible adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, these insights will help you make the most of your Himalayan experience.

Training:

Getting your training right is crucial, and for me, this meant not getting too specific.

While hiking is obviously a significant part of the preparation, you don’t necessarily need to spend endless hours on trails.

Due to my busy schedule, my hiking time ranged between 3-8 hours a week.

Sometimes, a quick power hike up Balmattum Hill was all I could manage, so I found the gym to be my best ally.

TENT LIFE: You’ll have to get used to being uncomfortable, but the adventure is out of this world.

Building up your core and glute strength is essential because these muscles will do a lot of the heavy lifting.

The trekking surfaces are rough, and good strength helps maintain a proper walking gait.

Additionally, high-intensity training is an often-underrated component of preparation.

Raising your heart rate and expanding your cardiovascular capacity will improve your endurance and open up your lung capacity, which is vital for high-altitude trekking. Many fellow trekkers struggled at night

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”

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.

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

ONCE IN A LIFETIME: Everywhere you look, you’ll see things you’ll never see again due to a changing climate.

due to insufficient oxygen intake, which I believe is linked to inadequate lung capacity or some kind of lung deficiency.

Finally, with the extra physical demands placed on your body, make sure to incorporate stretching and foam rolling into your routine.

This not only prevents overuse injuries but also enhances overall performance.

Nutrition:

While in Nepal, you will encounter an array of exotic foods, and it can be tempting to try them all.

However, as my friend

ROUND RESULTS:

U14 Boys 1 41 def by Korumburra 1 88

(Top Scorers: O. Pigdon 14, C. Hueston 8, T. Thorp 8)

U14 Boys 2 55 def Keilor 6 45

(Top Scorers: N. Caccianiga 15, J. Kynnersley 14, X. Phillips 12)

U14 Girls 1 39 def by Korumburra 1 54

(Top Scorers: E. Hudgson 12, M. Hanley 8, M. Moscrop 8)

U14 Girls 2 25 def Diamond Valley 4 21

(Top Scorers: L. Nedelkovski 7, M. Tomkins 5, R. Pickles 5)

U16 Boys 1 62 def Frankston 1 41

(Top Scorers: S. Kain 19, L. Cashman 10, E. Ockenden 9)

U16 Boys 2 32 def by Collingwood 2 51

(Top Scorers: J. Kelly 10, A. KIpping 6, R, Casanova 6)

U16 Boys 3 76 def Geelong 7 28

(Top Scorers: I. Lacey 23, E. Damon 13, A. Richardson 12)

U16 Girls 1 48 def Western Port 1 41

(Top Scorers: E. Mercieca 17, M. Evans 8, E. Napier 7)

U16 Girls 2 40 def Broadmeadows 2 36

(Top Scorers: M. Watson 14, C. Campbell 7, P. Male 7)

U18 Boys 36 def by Melbourne 5 38

(Top Scorers: H. Pople 5, A. Button 5, R. Robinson 5)

WELL EARNED BEVERAGE: After a day of trekking, ginger, lemon, and honey tea was a perfect way to warm the heart.

FEARLESS LEADER: Josh Hamill from Better Hiking is striving to become a mountaineer.

Jamison found out the hard way, starting your trek with an Ostrich burger might not be the best idea.

I stuck to the traditional meal that Sherpas eat: Dal Bhat.

This simple vegetarian dish includes rice, spinach, baked potatoes, and lentil soup, providing a wellrounded mix of macronutrients and immune-boosting properties to keep you energized on the trail.

The cooks are generous, often refilling your plate if you finish quickly.

Snacks are also crucial. Due to the logistics of

SELFLESS COUNTRY: The people you meet won’t leave you; Shanka is a man who won’t be forgotten.

transporting supplies up the mountain, items can become quite expensive - a Snickers bar can cost around $5.

To avoid this, I brought my own supply of protein bars from Australia, considering the lack of protein in the local diet.

This was essential for recovery after long days of trekking

Lastly, staying hydrated is imperative.

The high altitude and exposed trails quickly dehydrate your body.

Drinking up to three litres of water is recommended,

but I found myself consuming up to four litres. Proper hydration helps prevent headaches and altitude sickness.

Mindset:

When preparing for a trek in Nepal, it’s essential to settle your mind with one fundamental truth: you will be out of your depth.

From stomach-churning bus rides and living out of a 50-litre backpack to going without a shower for 10 days to using squat toilets, these are just parts of trekking life. Embracing these challenges is key to fully appreciating the adventure.

Trekking in the Himalayas means stepping out of your comfort zone.

You’ll face crowds on the trails, and often, there will be no internet service to connect you with your family.

But take a moment to step back and absorb the incredible environment you are in. You are in Nepal, a region home to eight of the ten highest peaks in the world. If everything were easy and comfortable, it wouldn’t be an adventure.

Mornings can be particularly cold, but with adequate clothing, you will manage. By mid-morning, you’ll likely be shedding layers as you warm up.

There’s nothing more comforting than ending a solid day of trekking with a hot chocolate or ginger lemon tea and sharing stories with your team.

A strong team dynamic is crucial; you’ll help each other through the tough moments and celebrate the triumphs together.

I vividly remember meeting Dependra, the owner of our tour company, on the first night. His words still resonate with me: “Remember, it’s going to get hard. You’ll miss your family, and you’ll question what you’re doing out here. But if you look after each other, you’ll make it.” And make it we did.

ICE WARRIORS: Josh, Yara, and Sabbi have fun in the ice chambers of the glacier.

Euroa B grade remains undefeated in GVL after hard-fought victory

By DAN GODSMARK

EUROA B grade continues their impressive run in the Goulburn Valley League (GVL), maintaining their undefeated streak after a challenging match against Mooroopna.

The team, under the guidance of coach and gun goaler Sarah Ternes, secured a hard-earned win, leaving them very pleased with the four points and top of the ladder.

Reflecting on the game, coach Ternes expressed her satisfaction with the outcome.

“We are very pleased to come away with the four points as we knew it was going to be a challenge, and it was!” she said.

The key to Euroa’s success has been, “We just needed to be composed.

Mooroopna played an excellent defensive game all the way down the court.

We needed to find the body and move the ball carefully.

We chose the best option that was available and tried to avoid throwing the ball into hands.

We were trailing and once we got the lead we really needed to score from every turnover, which we did,” Ternes explained.

Several players shone brightly in this encounter. Bree Sudomirski, playing at Wing Attack, was outstanding despite intense pressure from her opponents.

“She was being ridden hard by her opponents and did a lot of work bringing the ball down the court, often beating two or more players at a time to either make space for others or win the contest!” said Ternes.

Defensively, Kelly Hill, was rocksolid, securing key intercepts and causing numerous turnovers, while Molly Redfern delivered crucial goals under pressure.

Marnie Burton also impressed, shooting at 100 per cent when she came on.

The team had to cope with several unavailabilities, including a player in Europe and Brodie West, who was a late withdrawal due to illness.

Despite not using the bench, the seven players on the court worked

By DAN GODSMARK

EUROA Netballers showcased their talent in the Association Championship finals in Melbourne, represented by Kellie Davidson, Mia Sudomirski, Sophie Owen, and coached by Ellie Warnock herself.

The GVL team made it to the grand final, finishing as runners-up.

Despite playing nine grueling games, the team’s performance was commendable.

Sophie Owen was instrumental in the midcourt, while Mia Sudomirski domi-

tirelessly for the full 60 minutes.

“Once Bree and Brodie return, we look forward to having some fresh legs to rotate off the bench,” Ternes noted.

The victory highlighted areas for improvement, particularly the need to present more than one option to the ball when attacking.

The main takeaways from the match included the importance of maintaining pressure in defence as soon as a turnover occurs and ensuring multiple options are available in attack.

“It was great to play a fast and physical game of netball and to still come away with the win. Mooroopna are going to be a team we will need to beat again if we want success in September.

We will continue to work on our systems all the way down the court,”

nated the goal circle, leading the team to the final.

However, the championship also came with its share of misfortunes. Kellie Davidson suffered a knee injury in the first game, spending the rest of the day on crutches.

The team is anxiously awaiting the results of her physio appointment, hoping for a minor strain rather than a more severe injury.

In the under 13s interleague, Bethan Burton and Annabelle Ford represented the Shepparton Netball Association, earning their spots through rigorous trials held back in February,

Ternes emphasised.

Ellie Warnock’s Euroa A grade team experienced their first defeat of the year against Mooroopna.

Despite the initial devastation from the loss, the team’s determination and motivation have only intensified, signaling a strong comeback in the future.

Reflecting on the game, Warnock acknowledged the reality check brought on by Mooroopna’s intensity and well-executed defence.

“Mooroopna came out with 100% intensity from the start, and we just did not match it,” she admitted.

“They were ready to make a statement, and we let them get the better of us.”

This honest assessment highlights the need for Euroa to adapt to varying styles of play, especially Mooroopna’s defensive strategy.

where they showcased their skills over the weekend at the highest level.

Weekly training sessions, held every Wednesday afternoon in Shepparton, provided the opportunity for the players to hone their skills.

In the qualifying championships over the weekend, the SNA team battled fiercely, securing a well-deserved sixth-place finish in the state.

Alongside them, Grace Hill and Molly Fowler secured positions in the Division two team, demonstrating the depth of talent within the Euroa ranks.

The loss serves as a motivating factor for the team to focus on their weaknesses and improve.

Warnock emphasised the importance of forgetting about the setback and using it to fuel their progress.

“Our goal now is to forget about the loss, move forward, and use it as a motivating factor to work on improvements and be better in the future,” she stated.

The team is keen on honing their attacking drive, which was notably absent during the match.

Adding to the weekend’s challenges, Euroa faced injury setbacks.

Liv Morris, a crucial player for the team, suffered a shoulder dislocation during the first quarter.

The extent of her shoulder injury will be known in the coming days, and everyone is hoping for a positive outcome.

Forward entries constant for Euroa

THIRD XVIII

By KELLEY HOWELL

ROUND 10 saw the Euroa U18 team travel to Mooroopna to take on the third placed Mooroopna Cats. The game began with both sides working hard to push the ball forward but with little impact on the scoreboard.

Ten minutes into the game and with the score sitting at four - two points, a major was looking pretty elusive to both teams.

It was Mooroopna who broke the deadlock to kick the first goal of the game.

Riding high from the first goal, Mooroopna kicked two more taking a lead of 23-2 into the break.

In the second quarter Euroa pushed hard and continued to create chances but could not seem to convert.

Mooroopna capitalized on their chances to take a lead of 36 - 6 into the half time break.

Mooroopna’s strong leads and marking ability saw them extend their lead in the 3rd quarter to 55 points to 7. Euroa had a big task ahead of them going into the last quarter and a few tactical changes were made.

From the first bounce Euroa were switched on and were rewarded with their first major from Callan Howell. Mitchell Walters kicked two in quick succession and there was hope from the crowd. Mooroopna replied with two goals and Mitchell kicked his third goal with seconds left on the clock.

Despite the loss to a skilled Mooroopna team, Euroa were able to match them in terms of our forward entries, unfortunately on the day we were not able to take advantage of them.

FINAL SCORE: Euroa 4-7-31 defeated by Mooroopna 108-68.

Best Players: Will Creevey, Mitchell Walters, Caid Miller, Callan Howell, Ryan Sproles. Goal Kickers: Mitchell Walters (three) Callan Howell (one).

EUROA REPRESENTING: Netballers Kellie Davidson, Sophie Owen, Annabelle Ford, Bethan Burton, Mia Sudomirski, and Ellie Warnock had a strong showing over the weekend.

Goulburn Valley coached by Ellie Warnock, makes grand final appearance

PLAYING COACH: Sarah Ternes is extremely happy with where her team is at mid-season. PHOTO: Dale Mann

Murray Bushrangers Slip to fourth after defeat to Gippsland Power

By DAN GODSMARK

THE Murray Bushrangers faced a tough outing against the Gippsland Power at Port Melbourne, ultimately succumbing to a dominant Power side and dropping to fourth place on the ladder.

The Power held control throughout the match, securing a decisive 22-point victory over the Bushrangers.

From the outset, Gippsland Power demonstrated superior control and intensity, consistently applying pressure and dominating both the midfield and forward line.

The Bushrangers struggled to find their rhythm against a well-organized and relentless Power squad.

Cohen Paul was a standout for the Bushrangers, ending the game with 14 disposals, which included eight kicks and six handballs.

His efforts were critical in trying to keep the team competitive in the face of Gippsland’s pressure.

Another notable performer was Darby Wilson, who managed 12 possessions consisting of six kicks and six handballs, along with three marks.

Despite these individual performances, the Bushrang-

ers were unable to close the gap created by the Power’s consistent pressure and effective ball movement.

Looking ahead, the Bushrangers are set to face the GWV Rebels at Windy Hill on June 23.

This match is pivotal for the Bushrangers as they aim to maintain their spot in the top six and secure a favorable position heading into the knockout final series.

On another note, Victoria Country claimed a significant victory over South Australia in a closely contested match, securing an eight-point win against the former number one ranked side.

The game, held on June 9, saw Victoria Country leading for most of the duration, culminating in a well-earned 8779 triumph.

Cohen Paul contributing with three kicks, three handballs, two marks, and gaining a total of 125 meters, showcasing his all-around game.

Victoria Country’s next challenge will be against Western Australia in Perth on June 29.

This upcoming match promises to be another tough contest as the team aims to build on their momentum and continue their winning streak.

Goulburn Murray Junior Football League triumphs on King’s Day

By DAN GODSMARK

THE Goulburn Murray Junior Football League (GMJFL) showed off their talent as they faced off against the Bendigo Junior Football League (BJFL) and the Murray Football/Netball League (MFNL) at Catherine McAuley College Coolock Campus in Junortoun.

The event, held on King’s Day, saw impressive performances across various age groups for Euroa players.

Euroa was well-represented, fielding six players across four different age groups.

A total of 35 teams from the under 14’s and 16s participated in the GMJFL squad.

In the under 13’s, Euroa’s

Blake Trotter and Darby Hoare played pivotal roles.

Their first game against Bendigo was a nail-biter, ultimately losing by just two points.

However, they bounced back in their second game against Murray, securing a massive 81-point victory, with Darby Hoare earning another best on ground medal.

Ollie Wilson, the sole representative for Euroa in the under 14’s, was instrumental in both matches.

The team triumphed over the favored Bendigo side by 11 points and doubled their margin against Murray, winning by 22 points.

In the under 15s, Addison Godsmark represented Euroa in thrilling matches.

The team narrowly defeated Bendigo by two points, with a last-minute goal sealing the win.

Against Murray, GMJFL displayed their dominance with a 24-point victory.

The under 16s had a blockbuster match against Murray, featuring Euroa’s Archie Wilson and Jack Walters.

The boys led throughout the four-quarter game, securing a 17-point win.

The next step for some of these players includes a three-day training camp with the Bushrangers for the under 14’s and 15’s aged kids.

With the Euroa under 16s currently topping the ladder, the prospects for playing finals in August looks promising.

UP AND COMERS: Ollie Wilson (bottom left) got among it playing under 14s.

UNDEFEATED TEAM: Addison Godsmark (top fourth from the right) played his role in the team to go two from two.

FUTURE SUPER STARS: Blake Trotter and Darby Hoare had a great day out playing Under 13s.

STRONG REPRESENTATION: Archie Wilson and Jack Walters played key roles in the four-quarter game against Murray League.

BIG V CELEBRATIONS: Cohen Paul and his teammates rejoice after a narrow victory.

Annette Smith emerges as Par winner

EUROA LADIES GOLF

By DEBRA COX

Wednesday June 12 - Par.

ONLY five women, being the minimum number required for a competition, ventured out in cold and squally weather.

There was considerable talk about the merits of hot beverages and pastries in lieu of play but these hardy souls chose to soldier on and challenge the fairways.

Unsurprisingly, scores were not the best.

Winner of Division 1/2: Annette Smith with minus four.

Ball down the line to Gail Allen on a countback from Susan Harding both on minus five.

Nearest the Pin. Eighth: Gail Allen, 12th and 18th to the Club.

Drive and Pitch. Fifth and 15th to Gail Allen.

Saturday June 15.

Stableford with 13 players.

A perfect day for playing but for some reason, known only to the very fickle gods of golf, just two women made the cut of 30 plus points.

Winner of Division one: Annette Smith with 32 points.

Winner of Division two: Roz Doxey with 33 points.

Balls down the line.

Gail Allen, 29 points and Judy McLean on a countback from Lorraine Ellis both on 28 points.

Nearest the Pins. Eighth: Lorraine Ellis, 12th: The Club, 18th: Freda Edwards.

Drive and Pitch. Fifth: Roz Doxey, 15th: Kae Lummas.

Wednesday June 19 will be a 12hole fun Gala Day.

Saturday June 22 will be a Stableford round.

NAGAMBIE LADIES GOLF

By KARYN THOMPSON

Results Wednesday June 5.

It was the third round of the Club Championships and we only managed eight players, nonetheless the golf standards were still high.

The winner of combined A, B and C Grades was Carol Wallis with 79net.

The winner of the nine-hole

competition was also Carol with 35net.

The18 hole balls down the line went to Carol 79net and Moz Fowler with 80net.

Nine-hole balls down the line went to Carol 35net and Moz 39net.

There were no N/P winners.

The Seymour Club voucher was won by Carol.

Results Wednesday golf June 12.

Once again, we had eight players for the last round of the club championships.

The winner of the combined grades with a very impressive score was Bev Brown with 101/28/73.

Bev also won the nine holes with 51/1437 and Bev won the Monthly Medal and the Seymour Club voucher.

Only one N/P winner, Karyn Thompson.

Balls down the line for 18 holes went to Bev 73net and Moz Fowler 77net.

Balls down the line for nine holes went to Bev 37net and Moz 38net.

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS RESULTS

Congratulations to all competitors.

The Winner of the Club Championships was Moz Fowler with 288 gross.

The A Grade winner was Kylie Carmichael with 243 gross.

The B Grade winner was Carol Wallis with 248 gross

The C Grade winner was Jane Bow with 244 gross.

RESULTS OF THE NINE HOLE THURSDAY COMPETITION

RESULTS THURSDAY JUNE 6.

There were 23 players, and the winner was Mick Bates with plus one and R/U was Chris Roberts with N/P on the 13th was Shaun Spicer.

RESULTS THURSDAY JUNE 13.

There were only nine players, and the winner was Rhys Shepherd with 21 pts on the front nine. No N/P winners.

AVENEL GOLF

By LYN CARRACHER

LAST Thursday we welcomed 38 players from near and far to participate in the Mabel Vearing Silver Salver, which is played in honour of past member and stalwart of the club, Mrs Mabel Vearing.

Mabel’s daughter, Iris Sidebottom, is herself a life member and although she no longer plays golf, is still a great supporter of the club and is a sponsor of the event.

It was quite a brisk day and probably one of the coldest that players have endured so far this year, nevertheless, some good scores were recorded.

The winners of the salver this year were the Seymour outfit of Paula Britton, 35 points, Glenda Woods, 37 points and Irene Davey, 35 points which gave them a team score of 107 points, four ahead of the team from Mansfield.

Seymour has now four salver/ bowl events this year, with Paula being a member of all four teams and Glenda featuring in three of them.

Finally, thank you to our oncourse volunteers as without your continued support there would be no golf course for us to enjoy. Last Saturday 11 men and three ladies played a stableford round off the back tees.

Lyn Carracher had a day out, scoring 42 points to collect the winners’ voucher.

Dave Fullager was runner-up with 36 points and line balls went to Tim Batten and Dee Wright. None of the NTP’s were won and neither was the birdie ball however the D and P to the 17th was claimed by Scoota Donovan.

This Saturday is Monthly Medal so it will be stroke off the back tees.

Well done ladies.

The A grade was by decided by countback between Sam Bailey (Mansfield) and Sophie Banon (Kilmore).

Both players scored 36 points, but unfortunately for Sophie, Sam had a fabulous back nine score to claim the winner’s trophy.

The B Grade was won by Millie Cumming (Mansfield) with 35 points.

Millie has been a great supporter of Avenel over the years so it was lovely to see her in the winner’s circle once again.

Jenny Coleman from Marysville won C Grade with a great 37 points.

She also won the Vets trophy and the small teams along with Kerry Hewlett (Strathbogie) and Millie Cumming.

NTPs went to Barb Doyle on the fifth, Donna Meggitt on the 8th, Sam Bailey on the 14th and Glenda woods on the 18th.

A big thank you to Marlene Hull for your assistance with office duty and then heading up the kitchen crew of Pam Pedder and Marg Harrison.

The ladies put together a lovely spread for lunch and many thanks also to those who provided the delicious array of cakes and slices for our visitors to enjoy.

Thank you to Dee Wright for providing a wonderful produce hamper for the raffle and also for donating the NTP prizes.

We also thank Avenel Pharmacy for their generous donation of hampers for the raffle.

NAGAMBIE GOLF CLUB

By DAVID LOVE

BOOMING Barry Cryer bags a five pointer on his way to a comprehensive victory in the stableford event at the Nagambie Golf Club, the rare phenomena of Cryer winning took place on Sunday with a wintry wind sweeping across the course for the second half of play.

Cryer better known as ‘Bageye’ boomed drives past his playing partners and putted the lights out on his way to a one better than handicap 37-point total, accruing five points on single hole with a 40-meter pitch over the trees and into the hole for a birdie two at the third to claim the five point result.

Cryer humbly accepted the Seymour Club matchday voucher leaving the other 27 players in the clubhouse contemplating their golfing futures.

Runner up a distant three points behind our gracious winner was the inform and due for a win Steve Donnison knocking out 34 points, third place went to Greg Whiteman with some strong finishing holes and 33 points.

The nearest the pin prizes went to Graeme Cusack taming the difficult to reach eight, Dean Brown making a superb swing at the 13th and David Love pulling the right club to find the dance floor into the fierce wind on the 16th.

Next week’s golf will be a stroke event with M. Sloan on office duty and P. Neville in the bar.

Mabel Vearing Silver Salver Winners, L to R: Irene Davey, Glenda Woods and Paula Britton along with Avenel Life Member, Iris Sidebottom.

 Darcy Pastuszka.

PHOTOS: Dale Mann

 Charlie Thompson

Tough games for Violet Town on the courts against Lancaster

By AMELIA ELLISTON Round 8 June 15 at Violet Town

UNDER 17S

Lancaster 36 def

Violet Town 19

Violet Town had a little bit of a shaky start but were able to quickly get back in the game with some fantastic intercepts which were converted into goals.

The Towner team finished the first quarter well and it was going to take a strong four quarters to win the game with both sides gunning for the win.

In the second quarter Lancaster stepped up the defensive pressure and their shooters start to get their eye in, with some accurate shooting.

Violet Town keep fighting hard and at half time it was still a close contest.

In the second half of the game the Violet Town girls kept working hard in defence to stop Lancaster but unfortunately the Towners made too many errors in attack and Lancaster capitalised, winning the game comfortably.

Awards went to Ash Antonis and Emily Buitenhuis.

C RESERVE

Lancaster 50 def

Violet Town 22

Towners came out strong in a match that they knew would be tough with Erin Dawson out and Mikayla Cole feeling unwell.

They welcome Nellie Bamblett-Jonhson into the team who was a strong con-

tributor in defence with consistent Mikaela Dunn.

Despite their efforts, Lancaster were able to pull away in the second quarter.

Sandra Cotchin was fantastic all game and has improved out of sight, an impressive effort for her first year of netball.

Grace Pastuszka has come into the side and is a defensive firecracker using her voice and pace down the court.

Nicole Butterworth and Alyssia Trait played we ll in goals and were able to read the play, a strong effort by Trait who has been playing wing defence.

With some winnable games coming up later in the season we look forward to getting the whole team back in the next few rounds.

Awards went to Sandra Cotchin and Grace Pastuszka.

C GRADE

Lancaster 51 def Violet Town 22

Violet Town came out strong against a very well drilled Lancaster side.

The first few minutes was a little shaky but then the Towners produced some of the best full cour t play they have shown all season.

Rachel Brown and Thalia Ellis were strong defenders in the ring and Cass Greatorex had her most consistent game in wing defence, getting touches right throughout the game.

The Towners welcomed Misty Bamblett into the team who was able to step in with fresh legs in defence.

It was an all around con-

sistent team effort with Kodi Mustey strong in goals and well supported by both Alexis Kloot and Kellie McGill.

Makaila Gilbee and Chloe Townsend were their usual bouncy and fast midcourters and Kayla Jones helped steady and direct play through the centre.

Despite Lancaster extending their lead each quarter, there were some strong signs from the Towners and some lessons they can use in upcoming games.

Awards went to Kodi Mustey and Thalia Ellis.

B GRADE

Violet Town 39 drew Lancaster 39

It was another nail-biting game for the Towners.

After clawing their back in their last game against Stanhope, the Towners were in for another ripper game.

The lead see-sawed throughout the game and it really came down to the final quarter.

All game there was strong play in attack, defence and midcourt.

Coach Maggie Hammill

made some changes as things started to sway towards Lancaster and they paid off

Her faith in her squad’s ability shone through as they never gave up.

In the final moments of the game, Towners clinched a goal to get themselves 39-all before the final siren blew.

While not a win, it wasn’t a loss and was an impressive effort.

Awards went to Megan Bamford who ran hard through the midcourt and Lilly Armstrong who was back in form in goals after a recent knee injury.

A GRADE

Lancaster 58 def Violet Town 48

This was always going to be the Towners toughest test of the season with Lancaster undefeated and loudly voicing their dominance in the competition this year.

Lancaster may have been a little nervous by the end of the first quarter after it was goal for goal with Violet Town and they were only able to extend their lead by a small margin at half time.

Towners goalers were clearly a step above Lancaster’s defence and didn’t cause Imogen Law and Jacqui Bast too many headaches as they were fed well by Emma Warnock and Jo Wild.

However, their incredibly fast mid-court combined with accurate, tall and speedy shooters did challenge the Towners.

Jayde Burden and Kolby Wild worked hard to stop the ball getting to Lancaster’s shooters but it was a tough challenge and Millie Elliston struggled to shut down the goalers in the ring.

Overall, it was still an impressive effort by the Towners who never once dropped their heads and kept trying new tactics in an attempt to falter Lancaster.

A 10-goal loss against this side means anything is possible in their next match up.

Awards went to Jo Wild and Imogen Law.

U10s and U16s showcase strong team play at weekend

UNDER 10

By JASON WILLIAMSON

AFTER a bye last weekend football returned amongst the mighty gum trees at Memorial Oval as the Euroa Under 10 Magpies played the Shepparton United Demons.

Under blue skies and bright sunshine, another strong crowd gathered to watch the third home game for the young Magpies.

With United struggling with numbers Euroa rotated four players through the opposition each quarter to ensure maximum playing time for all kids.

Euroa started strong from the first bounce with a lot of players getting touches and some nice teamwork around the ground bringing their team mates into the game. Highlight of the first quarter was a nice long goal from Charlie Hemeter following a contested mark.

The second quarter was also free flowing with Euroa using their skills to pass to open team mates to advance the ball into their forward line. Euroa’s midfield and defence

was holding up well with Max Squires and Angus Brown working into the game and getting amongst the contested packs to work the ball free for Euroa.

With Euroa hitting the scoreboard on multiple occasions throughout the quarter it was Bailey Nunn who stole the show by taking the ball cleanly off a heavily contested marking contest to kick his first goal of the season.

The third quarter was another good quarter for Euroa with the team sticking to their fundamentals of manning up, running into space and supporting their teammates be being close by for handballs out of contested situations.

Chayse Norman-Linke looked to have blown the game open in a great passage of play when he burst out of the pack showing everyone a clean set of heels and with the ball in hand ran towards goal, unfortunately for Chayse he was running towards the wrong goals but it was a great piece of play out of the contested pack.

The last quarter the young Magpies really hit their straps with

some exhilarating quick ball movement resulting in multiple chances up forward and exciting the home crowd. Jasper Dunning took advantage of one of these instances swooping on a loose ball and taking off to put some distance on his opponent and kicked a nice goal.

Another goal resulting after Slater O’Bree took a nice mark within scoring distance and tricked everyone into thinking he was having a set shot for goal.

At the last-second Slater unselfishly passed to Henry Williamson who had a couple of metres on his opponent.

Henry was unable to take the overhead mark but swooped back onto the ball, ran back around his opponent and snapped across his body to kick a nice goal.

The young magpies ran the game out well and it was noted form the opposition that all Euroa players that played for United did a great job showing the same level of commitment and competitiveness while playing for them as they did while playing for Euroa.

This is a real credit to the boys.

Next week the Under 10’s hit the road to take on Numurkah in what promises to be another great contest.

UNDER 16

By DAN GODSMARK

IN a game that was expected to be a straightforward victory, Euroa Under-16s traveled to Yea, only to find a rejuvenated and determined opposition.

Despite the final scoreline suggesting a dominant performance by Euroa, Yea made their rivals work hard for every point, showing significant improvement since their previous encounter.

Eithan Saxon set the tone early, bursting through to kick the opening goal and energizing his teammates.

The connection between Archie Wilson, Ollie Wilson, and Jack Walter was seamless, as they moved the ball effectively across the ground.

Defensively, Blade Johns and Addison Godsmark were formidable,

making crucial stops to keep Yea at bay.

Ryan Trotter added to the scoreboard with a memorable goal, his celebration reflecting the team’s enthusiasm.

Meanwhile, Ben Creevey and Sam Mills played a solid game in the forwardline.

The game was physically demanding, yet Euroa’s boys rose to the challenge, never backing down.

The coaches will be ensuring that the team remains focused and grounded despite their success.

Looking ahead, Euroa will face Seymour at Kings Park next week.

FINAL SCORES: Euroa 15.15.105 defeated Yea 3.1.19.

Best Players: Archie Wilson:, Jack Walters:, Oliver Wilson, Addison Godsmark, Blade Johns, Ben Creevey.

Goal Scorers: Jack

Walters (five), Oliver Wilson (three), Ethan Saxon (two), Ben Creevey (one), Blade Johns (one), Ryan Trotter (one), Aaron Van Den Berghe (one), Archie Wilson (one).

 Talia Trimboli. PHOTOS: Dale Mann  Amelia Kearns.

NETBALL REVIEWS

Euroa under 15s put up a fight against Mooroopna

DEBBIE HOARE

THIS round was top of the ladder Euroa versus second on the ladder Mooroopna, but it was the Cats who got the jump early and quickly took the lead.

Euroa, despite working hard, were finding it difficult to get goalers into prime goaling position with a very physical contest in the ring and Olivia Morris having to leave the court due to injury heightened this effort.

Mooroopna continued with their confidence up and were quickly feeding into their goal ring, Euroa defenders not able to slow their momentum.

Hollie Reid was working hard through the midcourt to be an option in the attack drive and Mia Sudomirski’s efforts to work the ball close to post were relentless, but the Cats had further extended their lead by half time.

Start of the third quarter and Sophie Owen was out quickly for centre pass and working with Hollie to get the ball quickly into Mia and Olivia, who rewarded these efforts. Euroa’s defensive pressure lifted, Kellie Davidson’s efforts on the defensive circle stopping some of the Cat’s drive, and Euroa having a much better quarter.

In the final quarter Mooroopna proved too strong and despite the Maggies’ efforts, the goal ring appeared crowded and goaling was difficult.

The Cats were still transitioning fluently down to their goalers and finished with 16 goal win and Euroa’s first loss for the season.

FINAL SCORE: Mooroopna 50 defeated Euroa 34.

Best Players: Mia Sudomirski, Sophie Owen, Hollie Reid.

B GRADE By SALLY REDFERN

THE highly anticipated clash between first placed Euroa and second placed Mooroopna was conducted in near perfect conditions at the home of the Cats on Saturday.

The game started with a high level of energy and determination from both sides, an enthralling duel for spectators to watch from the very first whistle.

The first quarter was an intense back-and-forth as both the Magpies and the Cats fought hard to gain control of the game.

Mistakes were quickly capitalised on by both teams, with neither gaining much advantage on the scoreboard.

Despite the initial five goal lead the Cats managed to grab due to their fast start, there were only two goals in it when players went into the first break.

Molly Redfern and Sarah Ternes had their hands full with the tall Mooroopna defence, but it didn’t take long for them to once again find their goaling groove, moving and shooting with precision, providing strong leads and generally making the Euroa attack look slick and polished.

Bree Sudomirski, Millie Watson and Caitlyn Elliott were pushed to the limits by their direct opponents, battered and bumped by Cats who tested every rule of physicality for four quarters.

However, the Magpie girls responded to each challenge with ease and by half time, the Euroa team had established a two-goal lead.

After the main break, both teams

returned to the court with renewed determination, but it was the Magpies who began to amass goals in rapid succession.

Cohesive play and disciplined defence allowed them to gain a ten-goal advantage, a lead they had to work hard to maintain.

Defenders Kelly Hill and Grace Warnock had their work cut out for them against a very capable Cats attack and found themselves in the unusual position of being the shorter pair in the ring.

Thankfully, both girls can jump, and did so consistently for 60 minutes of play.

Spectators have come to expect a certain number of turnovers from the Magpie defence, and they did not disappoint on the weekend.

The change of positions in the third term allowing Kelly Hill to run at goal defence was an inspired move and seemed to open up the mid court significantly.

Kelly’s love of running provided another option in moving the ball into attack, and her experience in tight games provided a sense of calm on a chaotic court.

Euroa’s confidence as a team became especially evident in the third quarter, with Magpies backing each other, taking calculated risks and remaining encouraging and supportive.

At the end of four punishing quarters, it was Euroa who were victorious, and it was Euroa who retained top spot on the ladder.

And whilst top spot of the ladder is not the end goal for the season or for this team, at the moment, the view

from the top is a pretty nice view indeed.

FINAL SCORE: Euroa 45 defeated Mooroopna 38.

Best players: Bree Sudomirski, Molly Redfern, Kelly Hill.

UNDER 15 By MARY LOUGHNAN

LAST Saturday Euroa U15s played Mooroopna at the Cats’ home court.

Euroa were slow to start but then came right back at the Cats with six goals in a row to be down 9 to 13 at the end of the first quarter.

Bethan Burton, Belle Ford, EllaMarie Kearns, Lily Asquith and Avie Hill were combining well through the centre and at the goal shooting end.

Euroa had some momentum but lost it and the disciplined Mooroopna team didn’t miss the opportunity.

The Cats changed things in their defensive end and lifted the tempo.

The score was 15 to 27 at half time then 21 to 43 at three quarter time.

Euroa never gave up though and the coaches guided them to fix some of the key errors which were letting them down.

Grace Hill got lots of touches and rebounds in at goalkeeper.

Macey Watson was relentless and skilled as always.

Charli Pittock and Ruby Fowler kept the pressure up in goal defence.

To their immense credit Euroa won the last quarter but there remained a large deficit.

FINAL SCORE: Euroa 28 defeated by Mooroopna 49.

Best players: Grace Hill, Macey Watson and Ruby Fowler.

NETBALL SCORES

A Grade: Kyabram 50 def Benalla 40; Mansfield 38 def by Rochester 50; Shepp Swans 51 def by Tatura 55; Shepp United 32 def by Seymour 49 Echuca 55 def Shepparton 51; Mooroopna 50 def Euroa 34

B Grade: Kyabram 53 def Benalla 43; Shepp United 39 def by Seymour 52; Shepp Swans 44 def Tatura 39; Mansfield 26 def by Rochester 69; Echuca 41 def Shepp 40; Mooroopna 38 def by Euroa 45 B Reserve: Kyabram 43 def Benalla 38; Shepp United 31 def by Seymour 57; Mansfield 15 def by Rochester 72; Echuca 46 def by Shepparton 57; Mooroopna 42 drew with Euroa 42; Shepp Swans 49 def Tatura 36 17 & Under: Kyabram 65 def Benalla 13; Shepp United 30 def by Seymour 31; Mansfield 29 def by Rochester 51; Mooroopna 51 def Euroa 36; Echuca 42 def by Shepparton 70; Shepp Swans 70 def Tatura 25 15 & Under: Kyabram 43 def Benalla 42; Mooroopna 49 def Euroa 28; Mansfield 54 def Rochester 33; Shepp United 39 def Seymour 29; Echuca 41 def Shepparton 33; Shepp Swans 48 def Tatura 43

ON GOALS: Ruby Watson aims high as she puts up a shot

FULL PRESS: Marnie Salter applies pressure against her opponent. PHOTOS: Raelee Jager

CENTRE PASS: Hollie Reid ready to receive the pass while playing center.

UNDEFEATED TEAM: Grace Warnock remains undefeated in B Grade.

A GRADE By

EUROA B B GRADE LADIES ON TOP OF THEIR GAME THEIR

Reserves team stocks bolstered

RESERVE XVIII

By TONY BRODIE

OUR reserves team took to the field with a very strong sidethanks to several players who had come back from the senior team.

With these players into the team, it was going to be a tough day at the office for the Mooroopna reserves as they were short of numbers - requiring help from a few of their under eighteen players which has happened on a number of occasions.

Our reserves were quickly out of the blocks winning the ball from the centre, giving our forward line the opportunity to score.

Through this our reserves were able to score six goals in the first quarter whilst holding the Mooroopna team to four points.

This continued through the game with our reserves finishing with a score of twenty-seven goals and seven points against the opposition score of four goals nine points.

The opposition played some very good passages of football during the game - moving and running the ball - but they could not convert on the scoreboard.

Thanks to the Mooroopna reserves for turning up and giving our reserves team a game.

Our team was well led by coach Linc McKernan who ensured opportunities for all players.

Captain Robbie Wilson up forward finished with ten goals assisted by Brad Gleeson who finished with five goals – Brad was also helping out in the ruck.

Zac Gleeson had many possessions in his on-ball role …… winning the ball and setting up teammates.

Our young players Nick Hill, Nick McCabe, Keily Jager and Caden Robinson are all developing their games.

James Henry’s game is improving every week as is his fitness - he is important to the team giving confidence to the group.

It was very hard to comment on the game as our team was all over the opposition.

As we go forward hopefully, we will continue to improve with a few more players becoming available allowing us to keep in touch with the ladder leaders.

We come up against Shepparton United and we must be prepared from the start.

FINAL SCORE: Euroa 27-7-169 defeated Mooroopna 4-9-33.

Goal kickers: Robbie Wilson (10), Brad Gleeson (five), Jack Frewen (three), Caden Robinson (two), Ned Ivill (one), Keily Jager (one), Lachie Cooke (one), Declan Redfern (one), Zac Gleeson (one), Linc McKernan (one), Micholas Thomson (one)

Best Players: Robbie Wilson, Jack Frewen, Zac Gleeson, Bradley Gleeson, Caden Robinson, Keily Jager.

Nate Trotter celebrates 100th senior appearance amid loss to the Cats

EFNC- SENIOR FOOTBALL

By SCOTT WATSON

IN a bitterly cold day over at Mooroopna the Magpies were looking to get the second half of the season off on the right foot with a win away from home.

A number of inclusions – Jack Hellier, Jarrod Stokes, JD Hayes – joined the team as the extra motivation for the win was the fact the game was the 100th senior appearance from Nate Trotter.

Nate’s first game many years ago as a 15-year-old resulted in him booting three goals on that day – it has been a wonderful career thus far from him for his beloved Magpies – well done Nate!

Mooroopna booted a goal inside the first minute as the game opened up in a frenetic way.

Nate Stewart and Fletcher Paul were tasked with the huge role of curbing the opposition big men throughout the afternoon.

This was a task they took to with great enthusiasm.

Skipper Jacob Gleeson was threatening whenever he was near the ball – his explosive speed from the contest a real thorn in the Cats side.

Euroa booted the next three goals to have a 13-point margin at quarter time.

Mooroopna came out firing

again in the second quarter –booting a goal inside the first minute.

This, unlike the first quarter, was followed up by another six goals as the Magpies were unable to stem the bleeding on the scoreboard – going into the main break 29 points in arrears.

It was Euroa’s turn straight after the longer break to boot a goal inside the first minute of play in the third quarter.

Midfielders Jayden Gleeson and Lachie Hill were getting their hands on the ball with greater frequency – this work was being capitalized on up forward by the

likes of Jack McKernan (three goals). Euroa booted three goals three behinds in this quarter to Mooroopna’s solitary goal.

This meant the home side had a 14-point lead heading into the last quarter.

Euroa battled valiantly throughout this last period –sniffing the possibility of a come from behind win.

Andrew Bell was giving it his all as was Jett and Nate Trotter as Euroa continued to throw everything at the Cats.

With time running out the eventual margin was nine points to the home side as Euroa went

home contemplating what could have been.

Another opportunity presents itself this coming Saturday as Euroa play host to Shepparton United2pm is the start time for this game so get on down for a hot dog, a cool drink and some good country footy!

FINAL SCORE: Euroa 10-6-66 defeated by Mooroopna 12-3-75.

Best players: Will Hayes, Ryan Pendlebury, Jayden Gleeson, Andrew Bell, Lachie Hill

Goal kickers: Jack McKernan (three), Jayden Gleeson (two), Will Hayes (two), Jett Trotter (one), Tristan Davies (one), Silver Yousif (one).

BETTER IVILL: Ned Ivill is proving to be a force in the reserves.

CENTURY OF SENIOR GAMES: Nate Trotter marks his milestone with a three-goal haul.

PHOTOS: Raelee Jager

ON THE MARCH: JD Hayes charges past his Mooroopna opposition in the seniors.