OLIVER Wilson (left, 14) and Fletcher Paul (20) were very excited to be the first customers at Euroa’s new KFC on Monday morning. Story on page 3.
SOME rejoiced and some commiserated when the 1873 Euroa Goods Shed was finally demolished on Tuesday morning last week.
Mark Ireland was one of the Facebook users to commend the demolition done by Inland Rail, commenting: “About time they got rid of this rubbish, the shed was just an eyesore.”
Others on Facebook were less pleased, like Yvonne Devanny, who commented: “A big part of Euroa’s history LOST FOREVER.”
BY DARREN CHAITMAN dchaitman@
nemedia.com.au
The demolition came over a year since the beginning of a campaign to save the shed, led by community group EuroaConnect.
The stoush between Inland Rail and EuroaConnect has only continued in the wake of its demolition.
EuroaConnect president John Simpson said two members of the group, Jim Shovelton and Bruce Cumming, met with Inland Rail project director Scott Anderson on the Friday preceding the demolition.
According to Mr Simpson, the project director had told them the bulk of the demolition would occur on Wednesday – not Tuesday. ■ Continued page 2
■ Editorial, page 6
PHOTO: Darren Chaitman
Historic shed finally demolished
■ From front page
“There were a number of people in this community who wanted to respectfully be there to witness the demolition and they were denied that opportunity,” Mr Simpson said.
He alleged Inland Rail had been disingenuous and intentionally brought forward the demolition by 24 hours.
EUROA & DISTRICT
October
26-27
The Euroa Agricultural Society Inc will hold the 132nd Euroa Agricultural Show at the Euroa Showgrounds.
6–30
Tablelands Community Centre 27 Nolans Rd
Ruffy – ARTBOX viewings
Gubi ngarrak-du / Up on the mountain. Indigenous weaving workshops – bookings essential at http://www.trybooking.com/CUZTC Materials & tea/coffee supplied. BYO lunch. Enq: Fiona 0427 690 970 November
10
‘Sund’y By The Sevens’ concert with Greg Dudley and Rod Grant (Grant n Dudley) at the Third Age clubrooms, Kirkland Ave Euroa commences 1.30pm. Free admission 16
Rotary Club of Euroa presents Wendy Stapleton and Wilber Wilde & Friends
6.30-11.30pm November 16 at Euroa Memorial Oval. Book at https://www.trybooking.com/CUCVG
2 -23
Tablelands Community Centre 27 Nolans Rd Ruffy – ARTBOX viewings
Bushwood Creations. Whittling workshops –bookings essential at http://www.trybooking.com/CUZVP
Register your function in Special Events Diary at a cost of $9.90 per listing which lasts up to 12 months Call the Gazette on 5795 3041 or email Lorraine at lmillard@nemedia.com.au
An Inland Rail spokesman did not respond directly to these claims following questions from this masthead, but drew attention to media statements and a works notification that said site setup would begin from Monday, with demolition works scheduled over the following days.
Inland Rail and EuroaConnect have also disagreed over the possibility of reassembling the shed.
Mr Simpson said the group’s “preferred situation” would be to see shed reconstructed.
Mr Cumming said when he met with Inland Rail before the demolition, he put forward this view.
“I said this isn’t about Inland Rail having to fund whole thing, but enabling it to happen, rather than preventing it by trashing the materials,” he told this masthead.
He said Inland Rail’s Scott An-
derson did not raise any objections to this during their meeting.
However, following questions from this masthead, an Inland Rail spokesman said their engineering advice stated relocating the shed was not feasible.
Expert advice stated the salvaged materials would not be fit for structural reuse, the spokesman said.
But Mr Cummings, a historian with a clear passion for the now-wrecked shed, was still not buying it.
Not speaking officially for EuroaConnect, he said: “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
He said that “if the community wants to reconstruct some sort of building, which is a combination of the old and the new,” they should be able to do so.
Mr Cumming also remained deeply unimpressed that In-
land Rail used heavy-duty machinery to demolish the shed, instead of disassembling it with greater care.
An Inland Rail spokesperson said: “To ensure worker safety, machinery was used to remove the goods shed. This was necessary due to the unsafe condition of the structure.”
“A large number of materials were salvaged from the site, including steel roof trusses, corrugated iron cladding, internal timber framing, old scales and a number of other items.
“All salvaged materials will be kept until completion of the community engagement on the heritage interpretation plan that will present a range of options to interpret the goods shed within the Euroa railway precinct.”
EuroaConnect had delayed the demolition by taking their
case for saving the shed to Heritage Council of Victoria (HCV) last year, but HCV ultimately decided the shed did not meet the criteria for statewide heritage significance.
Inland Rail first announced in August 2023 its intention to demolish the shed, saying the relocated station platform will encroach on it when they upgrade Euroa Railway Station for the Inland Rail network.
At the same time, Inland Rail commissioned an engineering report which found the shed posed a health and safety risk as its collapse was imminent.
Construction of Euroa’s updated railway station and railway precinct is scheduled for early 2025, to be completed by 2027.
■ Editorial, page 6
■ Remembering the Euroa Goods Shed, page 9
MID-DEMOLITION: The 1873 Euroa Goods Shed on Tuesday morning last week. PHOTO: Darren Chaitman
MEAN MACHINE: The Euroa Goods Shed was demolished last week. PHOTO: Kate Auty, Facebook
GOSPEL OAK: Rare Gospel Oak branded corrugated iron kept by Inland Rail for potential reuse. PHOTO: Inland Rail
SCALES: Scales from the shed kept by Inland Rail for potential reuse. PHOTO: Inland Rail
SMASHED SHED: The 1873 Euroa Goods Shed on Tuesday morning last week.
PHOTO: Darren Chaitman
“Farmers leave things unlocked”: police on Violet Town farm thefts
By DARREN CHAITMAN
POLICE are urging farmers not to leave their keys in the ignition after two vehicles were allegedly stolen from neighbouring Violet Town farms in a 48-hour period.
Violet Town’s Keith Dean said he noticed his Honda TRX350 quad bike was missing on Thursday morning last week.
According to Violet Town Police, a key was left in the ignition overnight.
Mr Dean said his home security footage showed an individual was dropped off between 1am and 4am on Thursday morning, and
spent over an hour on his property (out of the camera’s view), before a vehicle returned to collect the alleged thief and quad bike.
Mr Dean discovered damage to another of his vehicles after reviewing the footage.
On Saturday, he got a phone call to say the bike had been found dumped on the side of a local road.
“I just can’t see a reason why anyone would go to the trouble of what they’ve done, to then end up with nothing,” Mr Dean said.
Violet Town Police officerin-charge Ian Hamill said leaving keys in the ignition is “just a habit, it’s an old habit”.
“We want people to update their thinking and their habits,” Constable Hamill said.
“As much as we live in a beautiful area, the crooks are starting to come into our area and it’s quite easy to steal a car or a motorbike… if we don’t lock up after ourselves.
“We need people to come into the 21st century… otherwise, it’s just it’s easy pickings for the thief.”
Just two days later, on Saturday morning, Mr Dean’s neighbour, Andrew Walter, woke up to discover his treasured, blue-grey 2007 Model Holden Rodeo Ute was missing from his farm.
The keys had been left in the ignition.
Police said the two incidents are not being investigated in connection with each other.
Mr Walter said it appeared a second vehicle was used in the theft, indicated by tyre tracks left at his property.
“Like most farmers, [I] left my keys in the ute,” he said.
“In hindsight, you know, I should have taken the keys out and all that sort of stuff, but I don’t think too many people on farms do.”
The latest Crime Statistic Agency data shows farm
crime has more than doubled in the Strathbogie Shire over the past year, from 17 incidents to 36 incidents.
Euroa Police Leading Senior Constable Eva Christou, who attended the scene at Mr Walter’s farm, said while she had not seen these statistics, she believed farm crime had risen in other areas “because it’s opportunistic”.
“Unfortunately, farmers leave things unlocked – sheds, they leave tools around, they leave vehicles around and keys in them,” she said.
“If there’s any message to get out to the public, it is, actually lock your possessions.”
KFC opens door to Euroa customers
By DARREN CHAITMAN
EUROA’S Fletcher Paul, 20, and Oliver “Ollie” Wilson, 14, were the first ever customers at Euroa’s KFC, walking through the doors as it first opened at 9am on Monday.
Mr Paul and Mr Wilson had glowing reviews of their breakfasts, with Mr Paul ordering a large original tenders box and a Seven Up, and Mr Wilson opting for three tenders and a large chips.
“Loved it, can’t wait to come out here a bit more and get the hands a bit greasy,” Mr Paul concluded after the meal.
Mr Wilson said his meal had been “nice and hot… fresh.”
Mr Paul guessed he would eat at the KFC once a week, but Mr Wilson – who got out of
math class at Euroa Secondary School for the occasion –intends to go all out, saying he would return two or three times per week.
News stories regarding KFC’s arrival in Euroa have been among The Euroa Gazette’s most viewed articles online over the past year, generating frenzies of excitement on the Euroa Community Noticeboard on Facebook.
The double-bay drive through restaurant at the Euroa Service Centre is now open 9am to 10pm from Sunday to Thursday, and 9am to 11pm on Friday and Saturday.
Euroa’s Olivia Dowell, 25, a newly hired manager-intraining at the chicken chain, spoke to the Gazette during her shift on Monday morning.
“There’s gonna be a lot of business here… A lot of people are going to love it,” she predicted.
Some 43 staff have already been employed, but the store is still hiring, with management expecting 50 team members.
Restaurant manager Emily Hunt, who switched from restaurant manager at the Seymour KFC, has overseen training.
The store is owned by Shepparton-based company Retzos Group (RG).
At the opening shift on Monday, RG Chief Operations Officer David Gorecki said the Euroa store is the company’s 65th KFC restaurant.
He said he was “super excited – it’s a gap filled”.
Some 50-60 new parking spaces have been built at the
site adjacent to the Euroa McDonalds.
The restaurant was built in partnership with Euroa Service Centre owner Michael Roth.
“I believe it’s going to become a more holistic place for people to come and visit,” Mr Roth said in September.
“I’m hoping that the other retailers in the area… will have some incremental increase by the extra traffic that’s coming.”
The Department of Transport has been asked to update four road signs to advertise the new KFC.
Building commenced shortly after Strathbogie Shire Council granted a planning permit to Retzos Group in March, with works costed at $3 million.
■ Editorial, page 6
Constable Hamill, the Violet Town officer, urged caution in interpreting crime statistics, given the low number of thefts in small country areas can skew the results.
“If I have one here, my crime goes up 100 percent,” he said.
“If they have one down in Melbourne, it’ll probably go up by 0.01 of a percent.
“So, that’s why I say the [statistics] are a little bit false as such.
“I’ve been here for 16, 17 months now and we’ve had one car stolen.
“I’ve got two now, two in the weekend, so I’ve now got a 200 percent spike.”
TAKE MY MONEY: Ollie Wilson and Fletcher Paul order breakfast from restaurant manager Emily Hunt.
CANDIDATES FOR STRATHBOGIE SHIRE
2024 council election
QUESTION: How would you work to prevent the recurrence of the issues that led to council’s suspension last year?
Scott JEFFERY
My career confirms a strong track record of working effectively with diverse people in all levels of an organisation, across multiple industries. I believe that the infighting, pet projects, activism, politics and wastage that contributed to the last council’s issues cannot be accepted. If elected, I will bring professionalism, financial responsibility, good governance, and decisiveness as well as effective two-way communication with our community to the councillor role. I will also ensure other councillors and the CEO behave and act in the best interests of our great community and region.
Stephen Peter MAHON
By doing the basics well. Listening – to community views, the advice of council officers, to the views and opinions of fellow councillor colleagues. Being informed and prepared – by reading the information provided by all stakeholders and making decisions based on this information. Respecting – the views and opinions of others and the final decision of council.
Brad SMITH
I will work to prevent the recurrence of prior issues through demonstrating and embodying absolute professionalism, establishing behaviours that become the minimum acceptable standard at council. Through this professional approach I will actively encourage and facilitate the development of a respectful, transparent, impartially focused and well-governed council. Establishing this professional standard, with clear and consistent expectations of every elected member, will ensure that all councillors are appropriately prepared and invested in not only every meeting, but every aspect of their role.
Amanda McCLAREN
It is important that our councillors participate in the induction training and understand their role under the Local Government Act. I welcome the oversight from the Victorian government in appointing a monitor to help guide the new council for 12 months. This will be a crucial period for the council as they engage with the community to develop the new council plan and recruit a new CEO. To this, I bring extensive governance experience, strong knowledge and understanding of the Strathbogie municipality through my four years’ experience as former mayor.
A busy council is fully and relatively involved in governance and will work diligently to prove and justify community trust in our local government. I will avoid getting involved in disputes regarding the code of conduct and governance issues. I believe in open, accountable and transparent council governance, and intend to ensure that it is practised – not preached and promptly ignored. While necessary for certain transactions, excessive use of confidentiality should not cover local political or community matters. I strongly oppose the misuse of confidentiality.
Vicki HALSALL
I will stay between the lines, speak when I have something to say and not impede the process. I will stay loyal to my fellow councillors. I will remember and remind my fellow councillors that we are one group, that we have earnt the right to share respect for each other equally and that together we represent one Strathbogie Shire community. Fortunately for me, I do not have a personal agenda, save, inspire confidence. I will do my due diligence; I will lead when necessary and support as required.
I would like to concentrate on local issues and be approachable to the community to voice their concerns.
I will lead by example and continue to practice respect and good governance. I’ll happily share the experience, skills, knowledge, and professional relationships I have gained within local government to assist the new council to become united and high functioning. Addressing anything that arises at the time in a supportive and transparent way will also help avoid discontent, disconnection and disfunction. Relationships between councillors, staff, community, government departments and other stakeholders will need to be rebuilt so we can focus on the key matters for a fresh and exciting future.
I will work with all the councillors, and where appropriate, staff, to ensure that we are delivering what the council is bound to provide to the LGA in a respectful, transparent and honest manner. I was shocked as a ratepayer and resident that the last council couldn’t put their personal agenda to one side for the greater good. After all, that is what you do as a councillor.
Jim BILLINGS
This relates to my previous answer. No matter how divergent our views on specific matters may be, we must treat one another well. I would strongly advocate that we, the elected councillors, spend time to get to know one another. A few days away, sharing stories and experiences would surely bring closeness and make for a cohesive team.
Christopher RAEBURN
I always honour my principles of integrity, honesty, commitment and a willingness to work collaboratively. Respect has always been key to how I treat everyone. I bring my good understanding of the Local Government Act 2020 and my extensive experience as a councillor including serving as mayor of Port Melbourne, and more recently, mayor of Strathbogie. I look forward to being able to share my wisdom and knowledge to assist all the new councillors. This breadth of experience, along with my ethics and principles, will serve our local community well.
Laura BINKS
I am passionate about delivering good governance. To achieve this: I am committed to respectful and civil conduct. I commit to working cooperatively and respectfully with fellow elected representatives. I commit to abide by the Local Government Act, the legislation that governs us. I will uphold the Model Code of Conduct and the Strathbogie Shire Council Mutual Respect Charter. I commit to creating a safe, respectful and professional workplace. With collaboration and kindness at the heart of my work, I’m committed to keep working for you and our shire’s future.
Frank York
My primary goal is to restore integrity and community confidence through respectful and productive relationships with fellow councillors, the council CEO, and the dedicated staff. I will focus on the issues that fall within the council’s legislative powers and responsibilities, acting strategically to seek continuous improvement and efficiency. I will aim to deliver real value for our residents, ratepayers, and our local businesses. I believe in the power of communication and collaboration, and I will actively engage with stakeholders on relevant matters and seek feedback.
Clark HOLLOWAY
The paramount first step forward is for each new councillor to take personal accountability and responsibility for their actions. I certainly will do so – if I make a mistake, I will publicly own up to it and ensure I do better next time. Then, I will work in the professional manner I always have – taking an evidence-based approach on issues, being respectful of divergent viewpoints, striving to reach compromises when possible, and ALWAYS working to promote outcomes for the shire that deliver value and are in line with community expectations.
Gregory CARLSON
Attitude is everything of course but one thing I would commit to is that I would never refer a fellow councillor for a breach of councillor conduct. To request the appointment of an government arbitrator, which has to be paid for by the ratepayers, is not something I would consider. Adults sort their differences out no matter how challenging. The way they do this is a reflection of their ability and their character.
EUROA’S Lorraine Mawson and her granddaughter Macey Kubeil are champion bakers, taking out several prizes at this year’s Royal Melbourne Show.
They jointly took out six prizes for their baked creations.
Macey Kubeil received two first prize ribbons for baked goods she created in the junior cookery competition.
Lorraine Mawson, the owner of Euroa Newsagency, took out two first prizes, a second prize and a special award for her entries in the open cookery competition.
The 2024 Royal Melbourne Show took place from 26 September to 6 October.
By EUROA AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY
THE Euroa Agricultural Show returns this weekend, bringing together our community for a fun-filled celebration of rural life, local displays, and exciting entertainment.
This year’s show is packed with events, including the 2024 CopRice Victoria Yard Dog Championship, which will take place in the Euroa OffLeash Dog Park area from Friday, October 25 through to Sunday, October 27.
The horse section events too will continue to run on Sunday 27.
Friday evening kicks off the weekend with the second annual Euroa Speed Shear for a Cause event.
After a successful debut last year, this event returns to raise funds for Beyond Blue, supporting mental health in rural communities.
On the main show day, Saturday, October 26, the showgrounds will come alive with a variety of activities.
Expect to see everything from livestock displays and extensive pavilion exhibitions to shearing competitions and horse events.
The day promises something for the whole family, including sideshows, rides, show bags, food, live entertainment, and a wide range of trade stalls.
At 11.45 am, Tahbilk local farmer Tom Boyer, a recent participant in the “Farmer Wants a Wife” TV series, will officially open the show, alongside Lyndal Dean, president of the Euroa Agricultural Society.
Throughout the day, enjoy entertainment from Stewart Bryant’s whip cracking shows, Black Snake Productions’ interactive wildlife presentations, Whitey’s ferret racing and live music from local man Jimmy Davidson.
There will also be an animal nursery for our younger patrons.
For a full schedule of events, be sure to check the Euroa Agricultural Society’s Facebook page.
Early-bird discounted tickets for Saturday’s main show day are available for purchase online or at GMCU Euroa.
Tickets will also be sold at the gate on the day. For more information and ticket details, visit www.euroashow.org.au.
BEWARE OF SNAKES: “Ranger Mike” from Black Snake Productions.
FARMER TOM: Tahbilk farmer Thomas Boyer, a recent participant in “Farmer Wants a Wife”, will officially open the Euroa Show on Saturday morning.
FERRET RACING: The popular ferret racing competition will return to this year’s show.
LETTERS
discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by this newspaper.
Email editor@euroa-gazette.com.au Post Euroa Gazette AP Gardner Building 45 - 47 Railway Street Euroa, VIC, 3666
Greg’s grumpy
ON Carlson on woke (Letters, 16/10).
He just sounds like a grumpy old bloke.
Kate Auty, Euroa
Auty’s naughty
into their small heads.
Smartphones are good used the way they were intended.
They are not a toy given to children to calm their bad behaviour.
Society has changed a lot since I was a young person, but parental ignorance has not.
Ted More, Euroa
Candidates ignore dingoes
Not one mentions looking after forests or native vegetation.
It will be a very hard choice to choose any of them.
Gillian Ryhorchuk, Earlston
Good luck, year 12s
I HAVE been reading through the promotional blurbs of the would-be council candidates. I would not vote for most of them. They say how wonderful they are, and how/what they would do for the shire.
Rainfall
(Euroa Township)
Some 41.8mm of rain fell at Euroa (Castle Creek at Telford Bridge) in the week ending 10am Monday, October 21, including 26.6mm on Friday, October 18 and 15.2mm on Saturday, October 19.
MY wife, Kate Auty, without my permission, recently sent correspondence to the Gazette. I apologise on her behalf. I have chastised her and she won’t do it again.
The only Marxists in our house that are encouraged are Groucho and Harpo.
Charlie Brydon, Euroa
Brainless Binney bard
THE author of the “redneck” sign (attempting to be witty?) has cast a vile aspersion which, we must say, is a pity.
STAG stifles speech
COMMUNITY groups across the Strathbogie Shire provided forums for council candidates, but not Strathbogie’s STAG or Violet Town’s VTAG.
Whilst Strathbogie had a successful candidates forum, I believe the current chairman of STAG attempted to close down the forum the day before because in his opinion the questions to be asked do not adhere to STAG’s “values”.
I consider this a direct attack on free speech.
There is not one who advocates for caring for the bush or its fauna.
Sure, there are farmers, but if they are anything like the “farmers” who farm in the eastern parts of Victoria, most will do anything to make sure they can look after their properties, and kill dingoes.
I own dingoes. Lots of them.
I also own sheep. My sheep are protected because my dingoes are maintained in large enclosures.
AS our local Year 12 students prepare to sit their final exams, I wanted to take a moment to address our future leaders and wish them the very best of luck.
The next few weeks will undoubtedly be challenging, but I urge you to remember that these exams are just one part of your journey.
While they are important, they do not define you, your worth, or your future.
45-47 Railway Street, Euroa VIC 3666
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Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 45-47 Railway Street, Euroa, 3666. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner.
Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.
YOUR GAZETTE TEAM
ON SALE AT:
Euroa: Euroa Newsagency
Violet Town: Violet Town Corner Store
Avenel: Avenel Newsagency
Benalla: Benalla Newsagency
Strathbogie: Strathbogie Store
Nagambie: Nagambie Newsagency
Longwood: Longwood Newsagency
Merton: Merton General Store
Seymour: Seymour Newsagency
Shepparton: Lovell’s Newsagency
Wangaratta: Edgar’s Newsagency
Council.
the
have been breached,
approach the Gazette itself or contact the council by email at info@presscouncil.org.au or by phone on (02) 9261 1930.
Member
That they could be so thoughtless and, undoubtedly, inane, gives every indication that they’ve only half a brain.
Craig Penny, Terip Terip
Smartphones aren’t toys
SMARTPHONES for preschoolers? What next?
These kids should be enjoying life before they grow up and reality enters
The questions related to Australia Day and financial and governance issues.
The public were denied answers to questions that if not addressed by the incoming council could lead to the failures as seen in the last council.
The most important being the Taungurung MOU that I believe affects the right to farm.
The attack on free speech by the STAG chairman and local socialist operatives needs to be roundly condemned in our community.
Mark Tame, Strathbogie
I am not overly green in my ways, but it seems to me that farmers make no or very little effort to protect their stock from “wild dogs”.
Wild dogs are, in fact, dingoes, remorselessly killed by farmers, who don’t want to fork out money to protect their stock.
1080 not only kills dingoes, but other native animals that ingest the poison.
It can also kill wondering domestic dogs.
Not one of the candidates mention that domestic dogs should be controlled by their owner.
Whatever happens, you should be proud of all that you have achieved so far and excited about what the future holds.
Once again, I wish you the best of luck.
You’ve got this.
I also want to congratulate and acknowledge those who have recently competed VCAL or chosen to complete unscored VCE and those who have already entered the workforce.
Whether you will be commencing a traineeship, apprenticeship, first year of university or even a gap year, I wish you well.
Annabelle
Cleeland, Member for Euroa
Everything comes to an end
“EVERYTHING comes to an end.”
These were the words spoken by Euroa’s Ted More, our most prolific letter writer, on Thursday.
He could have been describing the 1873 Euroa Goods Shed, demolished on Tuesday morning last week by Inland Rail.
It was once a “hive of activity for our local industries”, as Mick Williams described in this week’s Gazette, storing timber, bales of wool, barrels of beer, groceries and all manner of goods transported by train.
In more recent times, the 150-year-old shed has sat unused, derided by some as an eyesore, while others, led by community g roup Eu roaConnect, tried and failed to save what they saw as a significant heritage structure ripe for repurposing.
Mr More could also have been describing the current term of Strathbogie Shire Council.
Peter Stephenson, who has served as administrator for over 10 months after his stint as municipal monitor ended with council’s suspension, chaired his final council meeting last week.
He sounded almost wistful as he said: “I look forward to reading many positive stories about how the election that is forthcoming delivers a strong, united
council for the people of the shire, and I wish you all well.”
The end of one era marks the beginning of a new one.
On Monday, Euroa entered its KFC era, much to the excitement of local young people and fans of the Colonel’s famous fried chicken.
Where the Goods Shed once buzzed with activity, now it is the Euroa Service Centre, with its local vendors alongside fastfood outlets and a Coles Express, which teems with goods and people.
On Friday, November 15, seven new Strathbogie Shire councillors will be declared elected.
The decisions they make, and the strategic direction they set in their new council plan, will determine in part whether the Strathbogie Shire thrives or declines into the future.
Will a town like Euroa see its historic buildings crumble, replaced with retail and food chains?
Will it one day be an urban
hub, a mini Shepparton with a magpie sculpture on the Seven Creeks?
Will it go in the opposite direction, fading away as the population continues to age, failing to retain or attract younger residents?
Or can the town welcome growth and development while retaining its unique character and strong sense of community?
In a time when a clear vision for the town’s future is lacking, BinneyLink is one idea that cuts through.
The concept would link both sides of Euroa – the comparatively happening east with the underdeveloped west – through an attractive pedestrian underpass facing Binney Street.
Even those skeptical of how this could be achieved, and cautious of the political leanings of EuroaConnect (the group that has championed the idea), have admitted it would
be a good outcome.
EuroaConnect is discussing the idea with federal politicians, with a view to raising money for the development through grants or even crowdfunding – but it is unclear whether Inland Rail would accept the accompanying derailment of their existing plan for the railway precinct.
However, Mr More, the letter writer, referred to none of this when he observed that everything comes to an end.
The 91-year-old said these words as he delivered what he described as his final letter to the editor – marking the end of yet another era.
Mr More, we bloody loved your letters, and while we hope you may write another sometime, we will understand if you do not.
As the times change, let’s not forget the wonders or lessons of the past, nor fail to seek out a bright future.
OLD AND NEW: Euroa Railway Station in its early days (left) and Euroa’s new KFC on Monday. PHOTOS: Euroa Historical Society; Darren Chaitman
THE OLD
THE NEW
Administrator chairs final meeting
MonitorturnedadministratorStephensonentersfi
By DARREN CHAITMAN
PETER Stephenson
chaired his final meeting as Strathbogie Shire Council’s administrator last week.
“Thank you to members of the community and to members of the Strathbogie Shire staff for your welcome and your support during my time here,” he said during the meeting.
“Others will judge the decisions I’ve made and that’s fine.
“And others will have the opportunity to make their own decisions at the elections on… 26 October.
“But I leave wanting to acknowledge the hard work of the staff team and acknowledge the good people of the shire who have been very free with their time, free with their advice; good advice, often.
“Sometimes something you don’t want to hear, but most of the time it’s been advice that’s been well-constructed and well-received, and hopefully we’ve been taking that on board and dealing with it.
“I’ve said this before
– I look forward to reading many positive stories about how the election that is forthcoming delivers a strong, united council for the people of the shire and I wish you all well.”
He has previously said in council meetings he would maintain his subscription to The Euroa Gazette to keep
EXPRESSIONS OF INTERESTS NOW OPEN
REFERENCE: EOI
up with council news, mentioning once he hoped to see positive stories written by “Daz from the Gaz”.
Mr Stephenson first joined Strathbogie Shire Council as a municipal monitor in May 2023.
At the conclusion of his term as monitor, he delivered a report to Local Government
Minister Melissa Horne stating councillors lacked the ability to deal with several issues he described.
He was appointed as interim administrator following council’s suspension in December 2023.
His term as administrator was extended in March 2024. He will be replaced by
elected councillors in November following the council election.
In Mr Stephenson’s time as administrator, he passed the 2024/25 budget, which raised rates by 2.75pc in line with the Victorian government rate cap and also included new fees for events held on council land.
He presided over some controversial decisions, including a resolution to demolish Chinamans Bridge, the approval of a glamping site/caravan park at Kirwans Bridge, and the restriction of public question time to attendees present at council meetings.
Mr Stephenson was one of two members of the committee to recruit Tim Tamlin as interim CEO following the resignation of CEO Julie Salomon, who left in July 2024.
He decided to recruit an interim CEO instead of making a longer-term appointment, to give councillors the opportunity to recruit a longer-term CEO.
As administrator, his ratepayer-funded salary of $254,300 is equal to what ratepayers would pay in one year for seven councillors. The salary is only slightly less than the $260,782 paid to Melbourne’s lord mayor, who is the highest paid councillor in Victoria.
Mr Stephenson has been a municipal monitor at multiple Victorian councils which were dismissed following his appointments.
He was a Darebin City councillor from 1998-2008, serving as mayor for two of those years.
The Australian Government, represented by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, is inviting Expressions of Interests (EOIs) from water right owners across the Southern Connected Murray-Darling Basin who may want to sell their water in 2025.
EOI 1 invites responses from single water rights owners who were not eligible for the Restoring Our Rivers: 2024 Selected Catchments Open Tender. This includes water right owners from within Irrigation Infrastructure Operator areas.
EOI 2 invites responses from entities interested in selling a large portfolio of water of around 20 GL (or greater) across the southern connected Basin.
LIST OF CATCHMENTS: NEW SOUTH WALES
Murray River
Murrumbidgee
Lower
HOW TO REGISTER:
Opened: 30 September 2024
Closing date: 12 midday AEDT, 2 Nov 2024
•Visit www.tenders.gov.au/atm and search for Restoring our Rivers
•Download and read the Request for Expression of Interest documents
•Login or Register as a new user
•Complete the expression of interest response form and submit your response.
Ovens & KingVictorian Murray SOUTH AUSTRALIA
South Australian Murray
Responses to the EOIs are not considered binding
EOI will be able to proceed to subsequent purchase program. Owners of eligible water rights in the catchments listed in the table, including unregulated entitlements and section 51 licences, are invited to express their interest stating the proposed volume and price at which they want to sell their permanent water rights to the department.
The decision to participate is completely voluntary. To read the Request for Expression of Interest and register your interest, please visit AusTender www.tenders.gov.au - and search for Restoring our Rivers.
MORE INFORMATION:
For more information on voluntary water purchasing, visit www.dcceew.gov.au/watertender
ASSISTANCE:
For help with using AusTender, visit help.tenders.gov.au
If you can’t access AusTender or have questions about the expression of interest process, please email watertenders@dcceew.gov.au
LAST MEETING: Administrator Peter Stephenson and interim CEO Tim Tamlin after Mr Stephenson’s final council meeting last week. PHOTO: Darren Chaitman
Euroa Citizens Band entertains Kelvin Grove
By DIANE GRANT
THE Euroa Citizens Band has been in formation for over 130 years. Their members came from Euroa, Violet Town, Shepparton, Tatura, Mooroopna and Strathbogie.
On Sunday, October 20 the band entertained the residents and visitors at Kelvin Grove Village in Nagambie.
They played tunes from popular musicals, entertainers and pop songs.
The appreciative audience sang along to the evergreen melodies.
This event coincided with the retirement of Village resident Diane Grant’s 60 years of organising community, church, Lions, RSL, Village
and various major activities.
Diane said: “I wanted to go out with a bang, and the band has provided that for me.”
“It was great having them en-
tertain us so well on a lovely Sunday afternoon,” she said.
“Thanks to them for their great contribution to our Village fun.
“The afternoon tea was plentiful
GOTAFE GETS TRACTOR SIMULATORS
GOTAFE is now home to three state-of-the-art tractor simulators.
GOTAFE said the new Tenstar tractor simulators will improve onfarm safety and skill development to support the agriculture and horticulture industry.
“Our trainers bring contemporary industry experience and it is important they are supported to teach students with the latest tools and technology to deliver an excellent student experience,” Education executive director Luke Surace said.
“The new simulators offer students a safe and interactive introduction to essential farm machinery, including tractors and telehandlers.
“By practising in a controlled, simulated environment, students can build their confidence and proficiency before operating realworld equipment.
“This innovative approach improves safety, enhances learning outcomes and demonstrates the link between technology and agriculture.”
In addition to being of educational value, the simulators will also serve as an engagement tool at upcoming events.
Euroa Third Age Club update
By JOAN OSBOURNE
THE October meeting of the club will be held on Thursday, October 24 at 2pm.
All welcome.
On Saturday, November 16 the club will be celebrating 60 years since the club was opened with a two course buffet lunch at the club. All past and present members as well as the public are welcome to attend. Bookings are essential for catering purposes.
Please contact Lorraine at the newsagency to book – the cost will be $20 per person. Those who intend to come to the lunch please book by Friday, November 8.
and the raffle and lucky door winners went home grinners.
“Thanks to all who supported the event in anyway and who made the afternoon a memorable one.”
The three simulators, part of GOTAFE’s Future of Agriculture project, were funded by the Victorian Government’s Agriculture TAFE and Training Fund.
The new simulators will be up and running in October.
Students and trainers alike will use the new simulators from October across a range of accredited and non-accredited courses, including:
Certificate II in Agriculture (AHC20122);
Certificate III in Agriculture (AHC30122);
Certificate IV in Agriculture (AHC40122); and
Certificate III in Horticulture (AHC30722).
Voting closes soon for council election
THE Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) is reminding voters in Strathbogie Shire Council that they have until 6pm on Friday, October 25 to vote in the Strathbogie Shire Council election.
“You need to post your completed ballot pack before 6pm on Friday 25 October, noting local clearance times may vary,’ electoral commissioner Sven Bluemmel said.
“You can also drop your ballot pack off at the election office located at Strathbogie Shire Council Offices, 109A Binney Street (enter via Bury Street), Euroa before 6 pm on Friday 25 October.”
Any voter who still hasn’t received their ballot pack should go to vec.vic.gov. au to complete an online replacement ballot pack form. Extended hours for voters to hand deliver their completed ballot pack apply from 9am to 8pm on Thursday, October 24 and 9am to 6pm on Friday, October 25.
Voting is compulsory for voters who were on the state or council roll for this election at 4pm on Wednesday 7 August.
Enrolled voters who don’t vote may be fined.
VIRTUAL FARMING: Jess Hunter tries out a new tractor simulator at GOTAFE.
THE BAND: The Euroa Citizens Band at Kelvin Grove Village with resident Di Grant (right).
THE 1873 GOODS SHED BUZZED WITH ACTIVITY AS TRAINS CARRIED
GOODS BETWEEN CITY AND COUNTRY
Euroa Goods Shed remembered The case to save the shed
My memories of the goods shed
By MICK WILLIAMS, as told to Ann Shovelton
AFTER World War II, the Euroa Railway Precinct around the Euroa Goods Shed was a hive of activity for our local industries.
I worked with Peter Gavin who ran a general carrier business in the Euroa district for many years.
In that time all goods were transported to our district on the Goods Trains to the Euroa Goods Shed which was run by people like Phil Downing, Jack Braddy and Fred Pearson.
In those days we drove to the Euroa Goods Shed from De Boos St where Moynehan’s Grocery Store was and The Beehive Store.
We delivered to other local grocers including Moran and Cato and Lin Ferguson on the Highway, now known as Clifton St.
All groceries were delivered to the goods shed by train.
We collected beer from the goods shed and delivered it in barrels and boxes of a dozen bottles to each of the three hotels.
Because we had the train timetables we knew when the goods arrived and where they would be unloaded.
The staff at the Euroa Goods Shed had a schedule and location for regular deliveries and transfers.
The Seven Creeks Hotel received Richmond bottles of beer, and barrels.
The Euroa Hotel received Carlton bottles and barrels.
The North Eastern Hotel received Abbots bottles and barrels.
Only once did my father, a general carrier, have to travel to Melbourne for a grocery delivery for Burtons Stores.
At that time the Goods Train was shunted off the main train line and ran through the Euroa Goods Shed on a track
which rejoined the main track further past the Euroa Goods Shed.
The decades after WWII saw a high demand for wool and the Euroa area was famous as a famous wool producing area.
Added to that, farmers tried to shear sheep in spring so wool bales arrived at the Euroa Goods Shed in large numbers in spring.
Wool bales were unloaded from general carriers’ trucks onto a platform in the Euroa Goods Shed which enabled the staff to load bales straight onto the goods trains as they
drove through the shed.
Dick Rowarth had a mail run and brought wool to the EGS before collecting the mail for delivery mainly in the Strathbogie area.
Roy Gardiner carted a lot of wool to the EGS too.
My father, Mick Williams Snr, normally carried timber from Straughan and Davies who operated a timber mill in the Strathbogie Ranges.
The timber was prepared for house construction.
My father delivered the timber to the Euroa Goods Shed area where it was transferred to the Euroa Goods
Shed so that it was easy to load onto a goods train to Melbourne.
Timber was in high demand for housing during the late 1940s, 1950s and 1960s after WWII.
There was another area in the railway precinct near the Euroa Goods Shed which was where superphosphate was unloaded and carried by our local general carriers to farms for spreading on pastures.
Murray Colclough carried a lot to our farmers.
Jimmy Cummins and Ken McLaine worked in the super area at the EGS.
By JOHN PEARSON
Originally written as a letter to Heritage Victoria, dated March 10, 2024
I HAVE lived in Euroa most of my life and have a long involvement in railway work between Seymour to Benalla.
My grandfather was the station master at Euroa for many years. I was the fireman for the steam trains which transported the goods to various goods sheds along the line.
In past years the goods were delivered to Seymour and were loaded onto the goods train in line order of the stations ahead.
The carriage which contained goods for say Euroa was shunted to the goods shed at Euroa.
The goods were ordered by local businesses and stored in the goods shed until they were normally delivered to local farms and businesses by transports.
Locally the rail and transport industries were critical for the development of agriculture, the saw mill and timber industry, retail businesses and household heating when people used briquettes for heating and cooking.
The Euroa Goods Shed is one hundred and one years old and is repairable despite what the ARTC report says.
We’ve had many storms and bad weather in the past one hundred years and it’s still standing.
It is an important part of our local, rural, industrial, transport history which must be protected for the benefit of future generations.
The farmers in our area bought sheep from the northern areas to cross with their merinos to breed first cross lambs for meat.
The sheep were unloaded at the Euroa Goods Shed area near the Nissan Hut.
They were taken to farms by stock carriers or if they were ready for sale at Newmarket they were loaded onto rail stock carriages and taken to Newmarket, Melbourne.
Jim Sheargold managed another area near the Euroa Goods Shed which was the area for receiving and saw-
ing wood for burning for heating and cooking . The wood was sold mainly in Melbourne after it was transferred by goods trains to Melbourne.
The EGS was an important part of the timber industry in the Euroa area.
There were seven saw mills operating in the area at one stage and they employed many men with families who depended on the steady work locally.
The Euroa Goods Shed was an integral support for all our local industries from its construction in 1873.
ON THE LINE: The Euroa Goods Shed in past times.
PHOTO: Euroa Historical Society
TIMBER TRADE: Pratts Sawmill workers in front of the Euroa Goods Shed. PHOTO: Euroa Historical Society
EARLY DAYS: The Euroa Goods shed in the early 20th century. PHOTO: Euroa Historical Society
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RECENTLY: The goods shed before its recent demolition. PHOTO: Patrick Groot, Facebook
Inland Rails delivers $100m boost to regional Victoria
INLAND Rail has announced its spending with local business on the Beveridge to Albury (B2A) project has passed the $100 million mark, delivering an economic boost to local suppliers and communities in regional Victoria.
Since October 2022, Inland Rail and partner McConnell Dowell have spent $118m with 303 local Victorian suppliers to carry out work on the first four construction sites at Wangaratta, Glenrowan, Barnawartha North and Seymour-Avenel Road.
Inland Rail said local workers have also taken up employment opportunities on the first tranche of the project with 1279 (96 percent) of the 1330 jobs to date acquired by local residents.
Some 22 local businesses have won contracts worth almost $1m and employed 156 locals, the company said.
Inland Rail Tranche 2 construction partner, John Holland, recently held a series of meet the contractor events in Broadford, Euroa and Benalla to engage with local businesses and outline the range of services they are looking to contract on the second phase of the project in Victoria.
More than 120 business attended as John Holland outlined the services it needs, including labour, quarry material, industrial consumables, plant and equipment, nondestructive digging, road sweeping, CCTV inspection survey and waste management.
“More communities and businesses are set to benefit when we roll out the second tranche of the project in Benalla, Euroa, Wandong, Hume Freeway – Tallarook & Seymour and Broadford,” Inland Rail B2A delivery director Ed Walker said.
Five days until 3G shutdown
SMALL and family businesses have just five days to make sure they do not have their vital business systems and equipment fail when the 3G network is switched off on October 28, says the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson.
“Many of us do not realise there is an awful lot of technology and equipment we use every day that’s enabled by 3G as the wireless comms link and that it will stop working when the system is turned off later this month unless it is upgraded,” Mr Billson said.
“I fear many small, family and farming businesses are unaware of the scope of this event and the possible businessharming disconnection and technology dysfunction they may face.”
The ombudsman recommends the small businesses check the following technologies ahead of the shutdown.
Older-style EFTPOS terminals;
Tap-to-pay pads at car park exits and on vending machines;
Medical monitors and sensors;
Security systems and cameras;
Asset tracking tools;
Water and environmental monitors;
Hand-held pads and tablets;
Telephones in elevators;
The modem on your tractor;
Fire alarms;
Check remote sensors will still close the farm gate.
Also, remember some 4G devices also run on 3G.
“This change is about far more than upgrading an old 3G phone,” Mr Billson said.
“Business owners need to
‘check your tech’ on vital business systems and services that have a wireless communications link back to a base, service hub, control centre or panel that relies on 3G.”
Mr Billson said more could be done by telecommunications companies and technology manufacturers and suppliers to improve awareness and action among small businesses, to identify those who might unknowingly be using 3G, and to explain the wide-ranging effects and options to upgrade or replace their equipment as soon as possible.
SHUTDOWN IN FIVE, FOUR, THREE...: Check your EFTPOS terminals ahead of the 3G shutdown.
PHOTO: Pavel Danilyuk, Pexels
Council applies for Chinamans demolition permit
By DARREN CHAITMAN
STRATHBOGIE Shire Council has applied for a permit to demolish Nagambie’s Chinamans Bridge.
Administrator Peter Stephenson gave the update at last week’s council meeting.
“With the support of Extent Heritage, council has submitted the permit application to demolish Chinaman’s Bridge, with the
exception of the land-based abutments,” he said.
“Heritage Victoria has a statutory time frame of 45 days to make a decision on the permit application.
“Council awaits advice from Heritage Victoria regarding any requests for further information and any requirement for public advertising of the permit.
“Council thanks several local businesses through Go Nagambie
for providing information regarding the economic impact of the current waterway closure due to the unsafe condition of the bridge.
“This was a requirement to inform the permit application.”
Council resolved in June to demolish the severely damaged, heritage-listed timber bridge in, which is believed to have been constructed in 1891.
Boat traffic under the bridge on the Goulburn River has been pro-
Benalla Festival 2024 celebrates region’s hidden gems
WITH events running over two weekends, join the Benalla Festival to uncover “hidden gems” across Benalla and the surrounding towns from November 1 – 10.
Presented by Benalla Rural City Council, with support from the Benalla and District Social Inclusion Action Group, the 2024 Benalla Festival will be a celebration of Benalla Rural City’s lifestyle its people, country living and community spirit.
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hibited by council since late 2022, after the October 2022 floods exacerbated damage to the bridge.
Local businesses have said the boat ban has affected boat hire and tour businesses, while causing a downturn in tourism.
Council’s annual report estimates the demolition could cost between $1-3 million.
Council has previously said it would seek government funding to demolish the bridge.
This year’s theme Hidden Gems is about finding, revealing and discovering special qualities, talents and places in our own backyard that not many people may know about or widely recognise.
The Hidden Gems theme will feature a diverse program of live music, street entertainment, vehicle displays, theatre, dance performances, fireworks, art exhibitions, guided tours, scavenger and treasure hunts, food and wine, markets, open gardens, film, open and explore days, sport and children’s entertainment.
The launch of the Benalla Festival will be held on Friday 1 November in Benalla at the Visitor Information Centre precinct in Mair Street with the opening event Wheel to Wheel.
Diwali@the Mural will celebrate the festival of light and colour and Benalla By the Lake will feature a vibrant live music stage culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.
For more information go to www. benallafestival.com.au and follow Benalla Festival on Facebook for regular festival updates.
FINAL DAYS: Council has applied for a permit to demolish the severely damaged Chinamans Bridge in Nagambie.
ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sunday 27th October
Holy Eucharist
9.15am St Paul’s Euroa
Wednesday 30th October
Holy Eucharist
10am St Paul’s Euroa Enq: 5704 0330 www.anglicaneuroa.org.au
All welcome
BAPTIST CHURCH
31 Kennedy Street, Euroa
Sunday October 27th, 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 October 27th
10.30am Morning Worship
Everyone welcome
Pastor: Murray Broughton 5795 1950
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Balmattum
Every Sunday 3pm Worship
Enq: Rev. Stephen McDonald 5762 6275
Yea Presbyterian Church, 9am
St Andrew’s Seymour, 11.15am
Nagambie inquiries to: Bonnie Purbrick 5794 2544 or Bill Day 5794 2070
CATHOLIC CHURCH
St John’s, Euroa
Wednesday 8am Mass
Friday 12.30pm Mass
Saturday Vigil Mass
6pm St. John’s Church Euroa
Sunday Mass
8.30am St Patrick’s Longwood
10.30am St Attracta’s Violet Town
Enquiries: Fr Tony Hill 5795 3048
For Baptisms and weddings please contact Fr Tony or the Parish Office
UNITING CHURCH
St Andrew’s, Euroa
Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am
Everyone Welcome
Enq: Robyn Burke 5795 3103
Judi Ward 0437 686 072
St Andrew’s, Strathbogie Service on the 2nd and 4th
Sunday of the month at 11am All Welcome
Enq: Joan Wood 5795 1175
St Andrew’s Violet Town
Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am
All welcome
Enq: John Dunn 0419 362 866
EUROA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
Old School House, Clifton St Euroa
Every Sunday Meeting at 9.45am for prayer requests.
10am Service
Enquiries: Aaron 0493 101 663
Violet Town hall’s ripper new AV setup
By KAREN RUSSO
EARLIER this year the Violet Town Film Society moved into the more centrally located, well appointed Community Hall and rebranded our Film Society image and logo.
While the audiovisual facilities were adequate, we saw an opportunity to upgrade them significantly, not only for our own use, but to encourage and facilitate other community groups to make use of the hall.
In February we made a submission to the Regional Develop-
ment Victoria Tiny Towns grant program, having secured support from eight community groups.
We were delighted to learn in June that our submission had been successful.
Our enthusiastic steering committee hit the ground running to enable the timely and successful implementation of a motorised, full-sized theatre screen, a new ceiling-mounted projector and the wall mounting
of our existing speakers.
The significant grant, plus our own 20 percent co-contribution and some generous in-kind contributions, has given our small community of fewer than 1000 people an authentic theatre experience.
Our new equipment and setup was christened in October and was extremely well received by our Film Society patrons.
We expect all the community
PAST RECIPIENT: Annabelle Cleeland with Euroa
year’s Kokoda scholarship, at
Kokoda Scholarship applications open again
MEMBER for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland is encouraging year 11 students from across the region to apply for the second year of her annual Kokoda Scholarship.
Valued at more than $6500, The Kokoda Scholarship provides funding for year 11 students in the Euroa electorate to walk the Kokoda Trail and follow in the footsteps of local war heroes from the 39th and 2/14th Battalions.
The scholarship was presented for the first time in 2024, providing Euroa Secondary College student Amber McNally and St Mary’s College Seymour student Chloe Butterworth with the opportunity to successfully complete the trek.
Ms Cleeland said she was incredibly proud to support the initiative this year and was thrilled to be able to offer the same opportunity to another group of local students.
“This scholarship is something I am so privileged to be a part of,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Trekking the Kokoda Trail is a lifechanging experience, and I am so grateful that we are able to support incredible young people in our community with the necessary funding to participate.
“We are hoping to encourage young people to research and understand the sacrifice made by so many ordinary people during wartime, including residents from our local communities.
“While on the trek, students will have the opportunity to learn, visit iconic sites from the war, and pay respects at the graves of locals who gave their life during the war.
“With applications now open for those interested in doing the trek next year, I encourage every year 11 student across our region to apply.”
Last year’s recipient, Euroa student Amber McNally, said: “My favourite part of the trip was learning about all the history that happened on the Kokoda Trail during the Second World War, and carrying the Papua New Guinea flag across the trail with me from start to finish.”
Fellow recipient Chloe Butterworth said: “After this experience, I personally feel more resilient and I know that if I just keep pushing and chipping away at things, I can overcome anything.”
To apply, interested students will need to complete an online application and send an essay of no less than 400 words to annabelle.cleeland@parliament.vic.gov.au, along with a parental permission form.
The scholarship is currently available for year 11 students from any school within the Euroa electorate, provided the student lives within the electorate too.
Applications are open until Monday, November 25 and more information can be found at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ AC_Kokoda_Scholarship or by contacting Ms Cleeland’s office.
groups that supported our grant submission to upgrade the AV facilities will make good use of the new equipment for their own purposes, and that our Film Society membership will increase as a result of the community’s increased awareness and use of the enhanced facilities.
We are very grateful for the opportunity afforded us by the Regional Development Victoria Tiny Towns grant program.
GV Water issues challenge to customers
COULD you last one night without reaching for your taps?
Goulburn Valley Water is encouraging people to challenge themselves this National Water Week and “tap off” as part of Water Night, to help raise awareness about water usage.
Goulburn Valley Water is working with The Water Conservancy to bring Water Night to the region as part of its fifth year. Similar to turning off lights for Earth Hour, Water Night asks people to turn off all non-essential taps from 5pm to 10pm on Thursday, October 24.
Goulburn Valley Water customers who sign up to participate will have a chance to win prizes for the region, including VISA gift cards and stainless steel reusable drink bottles. There are also national prizes to win, including a dishwasher, coffee machine, wireless headphones, a smartwatch and more.
This year, the Water Night theme is “Tap off, tune in”, encouraging people to turn their taps off to help save energy and water, and tune in to learning how climate change could impact Australia’s water supply.
Goulburn Valley Water managing director Steve Capewell said Water Night aims to remind people about how little actions at home can make a difference.
“We all reach for our taps on autopilot, and I don’t think many of us realise how much we rely on running water every day or how much water we actually use,” he said.
“I encourage people to sign up to Water Night and challenge you to turn off your taps; and in the process learn a little more about how important it is to make every drop count, particularly as we head into summer in a climate that is getting warmer and drier.”
New research from the Water Conservancy about perceptions on climate change and water use shows that more than half (59 percent) of respondents believe they are doing enough to conserve water, most underestimate their daily usage.
The average amount of water used per person every day in Australia is approximately 200 litres, yet more than threequarters (76pc) of respondents think they use 150 litres or less each day.
Despite Australia ranking among the top 10 countries with the highest water use globally, just one in four believe they could do more to save water.
People can sign up at www.waternight. com.au and nominate Goulburn Valley Water as their water utility, or find more information at www.gvwater.vic.gov.au/ water-night.
student Amber McNally, a recipient of last
Euroa’s ANZAC Day service in 2024.
PHOTO: Dale Mann
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
3 What is a period set aside for riotous merrymaking (8)
7 Which term describes a scarcity or scant supply (6)
8 What might we call one who accedes to belligerent demands (8)
9 Name a renowned US evangelist, Billy ... (6)
10 Which dish consists of eggs, beaten and fried, and often served folded round other ingredients (8)
11 What are disembodied spirits of dead persons (6)
14 When one decorates, one does what (6)
17 What do we call an official such as an ambassador (8)
18 In World War II, what did we call those countries that fought against the Axis and Japan (6)
19 What is a model or pattern to be copied or imitated (8)
20 Papa Nui is the name of which Pacific Island (6)
21 What are patent medicines called (8)
DOWN
1 To promise marriage, is to do what (7)
2 Name those children bereaved by the death of both parents (7)
3 What is an agile goatlike antelope (7)
4 To have teased or heckled, is to have done what (7)
5 What do we call one who calls upon another for friendly purposes (7)
6 Name another term for pantries (7)
11 Name a species of small marine or freshwater fish (7)
12 Who followed his dead wife Eurydice to Hades (7)
E-QUATIONS
13 What is a cavalry soldier known as (7)
14 Name the brightest star in the zodiacal constellation Scorpius (7)
15 What is a tapering, foursided shaft of stone (7)
16 What are agents of retribution (7)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 APPETENT (a) Eagerly desirous (b) Belonging to (c) Annexed
2 BURGEE
(a) A freeman or citizen of a borough (b) A swallow-tailed flag or pennant (c) A sailor’s dish of boiled oatmeal
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
April 25th: ... Day (5)
Closed street: cul-de-... (3)
Condemns (5)
Doctor (coll) (3)
Earth/sky boundary (7)
In name only (7)
Man-made waterway (5)
Paratroopers (abb) (5)
Price On Application (3) Sun (3)
Beyond breaking point, Mansfield family battles for safe living environment
By EMMA OLIVER
LISA Johnson believes her family should never have been moved into the Rowe Street house by the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH).
But 15 years later, with her health deteriorating, Lisa would prefer to be without a fixed address, swallowing her pride, reliant on the kindness of community members as she tries to find a permanent residence.
The situation is by no means ideal, with Lisa’s daughter Maya most comfortable with a familiar routine in her own space.
It is Maya’s wellbeing that brought Lisa to Mansfield in the first place.
Uprooting her life and moving away from family and friends, it was the opportunities and assistance that Mansfield Autism Statewide Services offered to the then six-year-old Maya that represented a lifeline for the family.
Government housing made the move possible, however, right from the very beginning there was black mould which Lisa, not knowing any better, cleaned without donning protective clothing – no gloves, no mask, no protection.
“And I’ve continued to clean it,” said Lisa.
She attributes the ongoing issue to both dampness
and a lack of ventilation in the three-bedroom house, with limited to no insulation adding to the family’s discomfort both in summer and winter.
Exposed asbestos is another concern Lisa has raised, voicing that holes in the wall have been patched over with concrete sheet and smoke alarms fitted without following appropriate safety and containment procedures.
Lisa said she has repeatedly reported ongoing issues with the house both officially and in conversation to department representatives.
A report was lodged by one of her NDIS support workers in August this year highlighting the issue, and the department has conducted inspections, but Lisa feels action taken has been minimal.
Following a November 2023 inspection, mould was treated in the laundry but mould in cupboards and other rooms was left unaddressed and, according to Lisa, the issue returned.
The department assured North East Media it takes every complaint seriously and staff investigate these as a priority.
Lisa feels this has not been her experience.
Exhausted from trying to broker some sort of resolution, it was the announcement that the DFFH was go-
By LYNN ELDER
THE Mansfield Armchair Cinema (MAC) wrapped up its Star Film Festival after a gala opening last Thursday night for local premiere of “Queens of Concrete”, a documentary featuring skateboarder Hayley Wilson.
Opening night attracted a cross section of the Mansfield community, many who have shared in Hayley’s journey over several years.
The film was well received and highlighted the challenges for three young girls, all with a dream to compete as elite skateboarders.
The guest of honour unfortunately missed her hometown premiere because of surgery on a broken wrist.
However, following the screening a live cross from Melbourne allowed Hayley to express her gratitude to her family and the Mansfield community by thanking everyone who came along to watch “Queens of Concrete”. Hayley thanked her parents and directors of the MAC, James and Catriona Wilson, and her brother Liam for their continued support.
“I would not be where I am today without the sup-
ing to increase her rent by $90 a fortnight that caused Lisa to reach breaking point.
Effectively negating any payment rises the government has introduced to address cost-of-living pressures, Lisa said she was given no opportunity to challenge the increase on what she deems an “uninhabitable house” and was instead informed she would need to continue paying rent or risk falling into arrears.
Lisa packed an overnight bag for herself and Maya, and on Wednesday, September 25, the family moved out of the home. Her support worker found temporary accommodation as Lisa’s mental health hit an all-time low.
“Both Maya and I have presented with rashes, skin and nail infections, and breathing problems,” said Lisa.
“It’s all documented with our local GP.
“Earlier in the year, I had my gall bladder removed.
“I was unable to keep down food and drink and was vomiting, and the doctors couldn’t work out what was wrong, but did notice I had gallstones.”
Removing her gall bladder was supposed to offer relief, but Lisa’s symptoms persisted.
Lisa only thought to mention the mould recently; she hadn’t drawn a possible connection until then.
Lisa and Maya have been living with mould for the last 15 years, with mould evident in every room of the house, and their clothes and furnishings tainted by the musty smell.
Lisa now believes that many of her health complaints are a result of conditions within the house.
The Department of Families, Fairness and Housing told North East Media it “works to ensure public housing properties are kept in a safe and suitable condition, and that renters are comfortable and happy in their homes.”
According to the DFFH, “the health and safety of tenants and residents in all department-owned properties is of the utmost importance to the department, and all requests for maintenance within homes are dealt with promptly.”
Lisa said the problems with the house are neither new nor undocumented.
“I have had to resort to my support workers to try and negotiate the situation with the department, as I wasn’t making any headway,” she said of the protracted battle.
A DFFH spokesperson confirmed that contractors attended the property on Friday, October 4, to assess and report on the mould.
The department said it had not been made aware
port from my family and the people of Mansfield who have been with me through the
highs and lows,” she said. “I am truly grateful and thankful.”
of any concerns regarding asbestos.
“We have urgently organised for a hygienist to conduct mould and moisture testing, and a plumber to inspect the roof and the walls for leaks,” the spokesperson said.
Report findings indicate that whilst the property is habitable, rectification work needs to be done to treat the mould, with minor works to continue after Lisa and Maya return to the building.
The report also recommended the removal and disposal of a bed, with Lisa now responsible for costs incurred in replacing this item.
However, Lisa remains reluctant to return to the address.
Initially reliant on the goodwill of community members who housed Lisa and Maya in the interim, the department has now placed the family in temporary accommodation.
According to Lisa, it was a last-minute reprieve.
Facing homelessness, the department organised accommodation only after the report affirmed Lisa’s complaints that mould was an ongoing issue, and only after she had reached out to Beyond Housing in crisis.
Lisa believes the way the department has treated them is “beyond unbelievable,” compounding her
anxiety and distress.
With the family’s health in mind, Lisa has been considering housing alternatives. Despite rental shortages and an average rental price beyond her budget, moving away from Mansfield is not an option for the family.
“All the support and infrastructure is here for Maya, and it’s taken us years to get to this point where she is properly assisted,” she said.
“And what’s more, she loves this town, it’s her home.
“There are new housing ministry residences being built in town – there are alternatives.”
The department reaffirmed that houses are being built across rural and regional Victoria, with $1 billion in funding allocated through the Regional Housing Fund to deliver at least 1300 homes.
Many homes are already complete or underway, with new homes built in good locations with access to the services people need.
Lisa has repeatedly applied for the family to be relocated yet her name languishes on the waiting list.
“However, to move us out means they would have to address the current condition of the house,” she said.
“I think they realise they can’t just move anybody else in there.”
Mansfield-born skateboarder shines at film festival
Filmgoers were also treated to a Q&A session with the film’s director Eva Cox and cinematographer Oscar Ascencio, where they shared the challenges of the eightyear project.
“The takeaway from this film is success comes in all shapes and forms, and a bit of grace is important to recognise things are outside our control,” said Eva.
Another highlight of the film festival was the stage performance “Double Feature” by comedian and actor Damian Callinan on Sunday afternoon at the Mansfield Performing Arts Centre.
Audience participation was encouraged with plenty of laughs along the way but also a sobering look at grief.
The one-man show incorporated his parents’ diaries and shared their story from 1946 to more recent years revealing a wonderful love story.
Following the performance, Mansfield’s Judy Thoburne was able to introduce herself to Damian and tell him her mother Pat Cullen was a close friend of his mother Kathleen Purcell from an early age which was a touching moment.
GRATEFUL: Despite missing out on the Mansfield premiere of “Queens of Concrete” due to surgery Hayley Wilson wanted to say a big thank you via a live video cross.
PHOTO: Lynn Elder
MOULD AND MORE: Lisa Johnson (right) considers the Rowe Street address to be unliveable.
Camper killer sentenced
GREG LYNN SENTENCED TO 32 YEARS IN PRISON FOR THE MURDER OF CAROL CLAY
By SHAUN MCMAHON
THE long shadow of the Wonnangatta Valley murders reached its final moment in court last Friday.
Supreme Court Justice Michael Croucher delivered an emotional verdict in the 2020 murder of camper Carol Clay.
Former pilot Greg Lynn, found guilty of killing the 73-year-old, was sentenced to 32 years in prison.
As Justice Croucher addressed the families of Carol Clay and Russell Hill, he was visibly moved, his voice faltering as he acknowledged the suffering they had endured.
“To the families of both deceased, I’m terribly sorry for your loss,” he said.
“The sentence imposed is not a measure of Ms Clay’s life – it can’t be.”
His words reflected the anguish of waiting 20 long months before the families learned what had happened to their loved ones, whose burnt-out campsite was the only trace left of them.
Greg Lynn was arrested in November 2021, after a traffic camera caught his vehicle and trailer leaving the valley the morning after the killings.
His trial, which spanned
five weeks, centered on the deaths of Ms Clay and Mr Hill, whose bodies were found in remote bushland.
The jury acquitted Mr Lynn of murdering 74-yearold Russell Hill but convicted him of Ms Clay’s murder, rejecting his plea of innocence.
During the trial, Mr Lynn maintained that Ms Clay’s death was accidental, the result of a struggle between himself and Mr Hill over a shotgun, likely sparked by a disagreement over Mr Hill’s drone.
He claimed that in the scuffle, Ms Clay was shot in the head and Mr Hill was fatally stabbed in the chest.
Justice Croucher, however, described the killing as “violent, brutal, and horrific,” calling it “a very grave example of murder.”
The judge made it clear that Mr Lynn had taken extensive measures to cover his tracks, including burning the bodies and evading detection for nearly two years.
He suggested that Mr Lynn’s actions were driven by the fear of losing his career as an airline captain and his interest in sporting shooting.
“Instead of alerting the authorities, he set about doing a number of things designed to cover up these events, and
to conceal his involvement in them,” the judge said.
Despite the conviction, many aspects of the case remain unclear.
Justice Croucher admitted there was uncertainty about the exact order of deaths and whether Ms Clay’s murder was premeditated.
He was, however, confident in the jury’s conclusion that Mr Lynn intended to kill her.
Russell Hill’s family, despite being left in “excruciating” legal limbo after Mr Lynn’s acquittal, gave evidence “with dignity,” according to Justice Croucher.
Mr Lynn, now 58, has expressed disappointment with the jury’s decision and plans to appeal the verdict.
In a letter submitted to the court, he apologised for the pain and suffering caused to his family, the victims’ families, and the emergency workers involved in the case.
“I don’t ask for forgiveness. I am simply sorry for what I have done,” the letter read.
Mr Lynn will be eligible for parole after serving 24 years, meaning he could be released at age 79.
If he serves his full sentence, he will remain in prison until he is 87.
TRAGIC LOSS: A jury found on June 25 that Carol Clay (pictured) was murdered by Greg Lynn at a Wonnangatta Valley campsite. On Friday he was sentenced to spend at least 24 years in prison.
BY EMAIL BY PHONE 5723 0101
45-47 Railway Street, Euroa, Victoria 3666
BARTHELSON, Lorraine Joan.
A funeral service for Lorraine Joan Barthelson will be offered at the Echuca Moama Uniting Church, Corner Hare and Pakenham Streets, Echuca on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at 2pm.
The funeral will leave at the conclusion of the service for burial at Echuca Cemetery, Homan Street, Echuca. oaSteet, cuca.
Glenroy (03) 9306 7211
WRIGHT (nee Furphy), Jill Marie.
Passed away peacefully at GV Health, Shepparton on October 18, 2024. Aged 66 years.
Loved and loving wife of Ivan.
Loving sister of Jan, Heather, and Linda.
Adored Aunt of Darryl, Rodney, Robert, John, Paula, Bethany, Susie and Malcolm. Always in my heart. Until we meet again. ~ Love Ivan.
WRIGHT, Jill Marie. Remembering all the many years we travelled to Melbourne to watch the mighty Saints play. Wonderful memories.
‘When the saints go marching in’ ~ Love Jan.
WRIGHT, Jill.
Members of the Friends of the Euroa Library and her colleagues at The Already Read Bookshop are saddened to hear of the passing of Jill Wright.
Jill has been a committed and dedicated volunteer at the bookshop since its establishment in 2008.
Our condolences to Ivan and family. Your friends at the bookshop will miss you. Rest in peace Jill.
Member AFDA
Servicing Euroa & District since 1937
Damien Feehan
Justin Feehan
WRIGHT
The funeral service to celebrate the life of Mrs Jill Marie Wright will be held at St Andrews Uniting Church, Kirkland Avenue, Euroa on Monday, October 28, 2024 commencing at 11am.
The funeral will leave at the conclusion of the service for burial at the Euroa Lawn Cemetery.
A recording of the service will be available from 2pm. Please go to the N J Todd website and follow the livestream link. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute in memory of Jill would be appreciated, envelopes will be available at the church.
N.J. TODD
Member AFDA
EUROA 1800 352 425
BENALLA (03) 5762 2461
Date Issued: 11 October 2024
NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT
The land affected by the application is located at: Roads adjacent to(Euroa Main Road, Golf Course Road and Simpsons Lane) 72 Golf Course Road, Euroa VIC 3666
The application is for a Permit for: Native Vegetation Removal (road reserves)
To allow for the installation of essential services to the site (reticulated sewerage and potable water, electricity); and access
The applicant for the Permit is: Enclave Living Pty Ltd
PersonalNotices
may be placed up to 3.00pm each Monday
classifieds@nemedia.com.au Phone: 03 5723 0101
The applicationReference Number is: P2024-076
You may view the application and any documents that support the application on our website at: https://www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/services/building-and-planning/planning-applicationscurrentlyadvertised/
or at the office of the Responsible Authority during office hours:
NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Annual General Meeting of Violet Town Bush Nursing Centre Inc. will be held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at 2pm (day meeting) Violet Town Community Centre Supper Room.
BUSINESS
1.To approve the Minutes of the preceding Annual General Meeting
2.To receive the Report of the Board and the Audited Statement of Accounts and Financial Reports
For the year ended June 30th 2024.
3.To elect Directors of the Board of Management. Current 4 directors term expiring have renominated.
4.To appoint an Auditor for the 2024-2025 year.
5.To transact any other business of which the Chief Executive Officer Barry Hobbs has received not less than seven (7) days’ notice in writing before the meeting.
Nominations for the election to the Board close with the Chief Executive Officer at 4pm Tuesday 5th November 2024.
Nomination forms are available at the Nursing Centre Office and may be returned to the Chief Executive Officer, VTBNC, Box 61, Violet Town, 3669 or email ceo@hsrh.com.au Board of Management VTBNC
The Friends of Euroa Library ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING will be held on Tuesday, November 12 at 5pm in the Library’s Meeting Room.
Strathbogie Shire Council
109A Binney Street Euroa / Telephone: (03) 5795 0000
Any person who may be affected by the granting of the Permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority.
An objection must be sent to the Responsible Authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.
The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 31 October 2024
All objections are placed on the relevant Planning Permit application file, which is publicly available at all times. Objections can therefore be read and used by other parties.
An objection form is available from Strathbogie Shire Council office, by phoning Council on (03) 5795 0000 or at: https://www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/development/statutory-planning/objections
If you submit an objection, the Responsible Authority will tell you of its final decision.
Euroa Chamber of Business and Commerce AGM
Tuesday November19, 2024, 6pm. Euroa Library Meeting Room. After hours entry via back entrance. Light nibbles provided. All members welcome and encouraged.
SATURDAY October 26 8am – 4pm SUNDAY October 27 9am – 1pm
Household goods 51 Kennedy Street Euroa
Baking position available!
A qualification or experience in baking is preferred, but not essential
We are currently looking for a Baker to join our team, with a variety of shifts available for the right candidate and room to grow your career.
Drop off your resume in store or follow the QR code for online applications and more details. Contact us! strathbogiebakingcompany@gmail.com
SHED find, vintage Chrysler Regal Lebaron ’78, 4.3 ltres, $10,000, looking for offers, VIN: CLBH4IV105369. Ph 0459 899 884.
FORD FALCON FATURA 2003 BA, engine number JGSW3J29778, DLPG sedan, major KMs driven by one careful lady, $4k of receipts showing money spent on car at Premier Panels, 12 months registration plus roadworthy certificate included, car mechanically drives like new, no burning oil, asking $8000 ONO. Ph 03 5721 3948.
N J Todd Funeral Directors
Euroa’s junior talent Grace Eddy wins again
EUROA LADIES GOLF
By DEBRA COX
WEDNESDAY October 16 was a nine-hole competition, as we had a significant number of our usual 18-hole players enjoying a golfing holiday at Howlong in NSW.
As the saying goes “what happens in Howlong stays in Howlong”.
I think it was the sand bunkers that prompted our women to start an early happy hour each day.
So, getting back to our lovely course in Euroa (no sand bunkers) we had nine players for nine holes.
The winner with a solid 20 points was Susan Harding.
A great result Susan and we all look forward to seeing you play more regularly in the future.
Runner up was Michelle Thomson with 17 points.
Drive and Pitch on the fifth: Deb Cox.
Nearest the Pin on the eighth: The Club.
Saturday October 19 was Stroke, Monthly Medal (sponsored by Drummond Golf) and B Scratch.
Fourteen women fronted up for this round and it was a tight contest between two outstanding players for the Monthly Medal.
The MM was ultimately won by our youngest ladies’ member Grace Eddy on a countback from Gail Allen each with nett 74.
Gail was the Division one winner and Grace won Division two.
Well done to both players.
Grace is playing brilliantly, even with her handicap dropping she just takes it in her stride and continues to win, no doubt a champion in the making.
In addition to the MM Grace also won B Scratch.
Congratulations Grace. I suspect it won’t be too long before you surpass your talented Aunt Melissa.
Balls down the line went to Sarah Bullen, nett 77 and Freda Edwards, nett 79.
Least putts went to Gail Allen with 30.
Nearest the Pins: Eighth to Erica Mercer, 12th and 18th to the Club.
Drive and Pitch: Fifth: Freda Edwards, 15th: Levenia Redfern. Thanks to all our sponsors and Drummond Golf for their continuing support of our Monthly Medal.
Next Wednesday and Saturday are both Stableford and Sunday October 27 is Euroa Shield 4BBB and Par.
NAGAMBIES
LADIES GOLF
By KARYN THOMPSON
RESULTS Wednesday, October 9.
WE only had 10 players for a Stableford round played in
beautiful weather conditions.
The winner of A Grade was Monica Hurley with 36pts.
The winner of B and C Grades was Bev Brown with 28pts.
The nine-hole winner was Monica with 20pts.
Monica was also the winner of the Seymour Club Voucher.
There were no neatest to the pin winners.
Balls down the line for 18 holes were won by Monica 36pts, Moz Fowler 32pts and Annette Mills 31pts.
Balls down the line for nine holes were won by Monica 20pts, Annette 16pts and Moz 15pts on a countback from Bev.
Results Wednesday, October 16.
We had nine players for a Stableford round and a playoff for the Gold Monthly Medal.
The winner of the Gold Medal, the Seymour Club Voucher and the daily competition was Moz Fowler with 36pts.
The nine-hole winner was Bev Brown with 18pts.
Balls down the line for 18 went to Moz 36 and Annette Mills 35pts.
Balls down the line for ninehole went to Bev 18pts and Moz 17pts on a countback from Ronda Richards.
Irene Keogh managed nearest to the pin on the third and on the 16th Annette.
Results Thursday October 10. We had 21 players for a round of Par.
The winner was Dave Love plus one on a countback from Daniel Hall.
Nearest to the pin on the third was Dave.
Results Thursday, October 17.
Once again, we had 21 players this time for a Stableford round.
The very happy winner was Gary Bow with 22pts.
The runners up on a three-way countback was Mick Le Deux with 20pts.
Nearest to the pin on the 13th was Lindsay Hall and on the 16th Mick Sloan.
EUROA GOLF CLUB
By RICHARD JOHNSON
SEVENTEEN players took to the course in the increasingly popular nine-hole Sunday event on October 13 which was won by Michelle Thomson with an impressive 31 points. Matt Mills and Michelle Grady were the next best with 20 points.
Ian Sutherland produced his best round for a long time to win the Wednesday Stableford event with 39 points, four points ahead of Dick Farmer and Paul Redfern, both on 35.
45 millimeters of rain kept the Friday twilight players at home but will set the course beautifully well into the spring.
The Drummond Golf monthly medal was played on Saturday and Richard Eddy produced the round that he’s been threatening to deliver with a fine 75-6-69.
Scott Meehan was one shot back with a net 70 and balls down the line went to David Baker, Dick Farmer, Brian Rosenbrock, Jasent Miller and Dayle McIntosh each on 75.
Brendan Redfern and Jasent Miller both paid for their days golf by collecting a payout in the two-ball birdie event.
This week we have Stableford events on Wednesday and Saturday and summer twilight on Friday from 4pm.
The week’s golf will culminate on Sunday with the four-ball Par Euroa Shield Honor Board Event which is proudly sponsored by Tehan George and Co lawyers, which will see a big field of members and guests competing for the major prizes provided by sponsors.
Perfect golfing conditions are prevailing for the enjoyment of members, green fee players and guests.
NAGAMBIE GOLF CLUB
By DAVID LOVE
THE Nagambie golf course was in great condition after 40mm of rain fell on Friday, this was much needed taking some sting out of the ground, but as always throughout the Spring a strong southerly blew making scoring tough going.
A stroke event was played with the gold medal playoff being awarded to the best net score of the 12 monthly medallists from throughout the year; the recipient of the gold medal was Phil Hageman doing enough with a 94-19-75.
The day’s event was won by David Love playing some accurate golf in the strong winds with some excellent shot making from start to finish to card an 83-11-72 and win by one.
Runner up was Nathan Wilson showing off his game with plenty of solid ball striking to post 85-12-73 Wilson’s long driving helping in the tough conditions, rounding out the top three was Gary Bow whose recent form has been good putting together 94-1975.
The nearest the pin prizes went to Ben Cassar riding the wind to reach the eighth, Greg Whiteman surprising himself with a golf shot into the 13th and Nathan Wilson showing he can hit a golf ball landing on the 16th.
Next week’s golf is the Nagambie Open four ball best ball hit off will be from 9am entries can be forward to David on 0419 672 442.
STRATHBOGIE GOLF CLUB
By KRISTEN MOORE
SATURDAY was our three person Ambrose event, sponsored by Drummond Golf and after all the rain we had on Friday the
course was in great condition. And even though we had a strong southerly wind it was a great day for golf.
We had 23 teams, five of them from Mansfield who dominated on the day.
Scratch winners were Brad Grant, Bill Parson and Graeme Clark with 67 and runners up were Rick Harnwell, Alison Comensoli and Ian Hunt with 68.
Winners of the Handicap with a great nett score of 58 were Diana DeJager, Geoff Brown and Rob Dundas and the runner up were our own members Shae VanderSchoor, Carmel Lineham and Gerard Reyonlds.
Nearest the pin winners were Jim McAlister on the fourth, Leanne Carmody on the eighth, Rick Brodie on the 15th and Rob Dundas on the 17th.
Sunday was our combined Men’s and Ladies 18-hole Tournament played in great sunny conditions.
The Ladies scratch winner was Sophie Bannon with 91 and the handicap winner was our local Fran Kearney with a nett 73, runners up Glenda Woods and Bev Brown with a nett 75.
Winners of the nearest the pin, on the 15th Andrea Boland and on the 17th Christine Simmons.
Men’s A Grade scratch winner was Matt Mills from Euroa with a one under 71, B Grade scratch winner was Chris Hanson from Broadford with 86 and C Grade scratch winner which included a hole in one on the 17th. This was his fifth hole in one of his life and the first one that he could see go in was Colin Long from Eildon with 87.
Handicap winners were A Grade Justin Ryan with a nett 70, B Grade Stephen Lister with a nett 75 and in C Grade Tracy Hedditch with a nett 71.
Runners up in the Handicap were A Grade Barney Hearnden with a nett 71, B Grade our own Vice President David Kennett with a nett 76 and C Grade Dennis O’Neill with a nett 73.
Nearest the pin winners were on the fourth Ryley McDonald, on the eighth Murray Fraser, on the 15th Ryley McDonald and on the 17th of course with his hole in one was Colin Long.
Everyone commented on how good the food was over the weekend with a smorgasbord of cakes and slices, many thanks to all those who did the baking.
Many thanks to all of our sponsors over the weekend Drummond Golf Shepparton, Petrostar, North East Real Estate, Rodwells, Brady and Kibble, Euroa Timber, Burtons IGA and Antcliff Chase wines.
Next Saturday is our third round of our club Championships with Mal Inglis on duty. And it is our monthly dinner so please book with Mal. Don’t forget to book for our Melbourne Cup Day with bookings closing this week
Avenel Bowls Club battles in blustery conditions
By KATE DONOVAN
MIDWEEK PENNANT DIVISION THREE
SEASON 2024/25 kicked off in very blustery conditions with Round one being played at Mooroopna Golf.
Avenel had a successful day with two rink wins and a draw.
Avenel 15 – 64 beat Mooroopna Golf 1 – 45.
Fay Hateley, Graham Lewis, Grace Kenworthy, Noel Slater (s) led for the entire game winning fifteen of the twenty-one ends for a great start to the new season winning 26 – 9.
Pam Pedder, Rusty Schwab, Glen Bell, Dennis McGregor (s) had to fight hard for their win, and fight hard they did.
Being five down on end seventeen, they came storming home winning four of the last five ends for a two-shot victory 19 – 17.
Nyoli Bell, Kate Donovan, James Wall, Geoff Hateley (s) after being in arrears all game, were five down with two ends remaining.
Scoring five over the last two ends resulted in a 19 all draw.
MIDWEEK PENNANT DIVISION SIX
Avenel had a home game against Mooroopna and with both teams deplete of bowlers it was probably fitting that the game was a draw, 7 – 40 apiece.
Mark Morse, Marg Harrison, Marion Gittus (s) won the lead on the eighth end with a four and did not relinquish the lead for the rest of the game winning 19 – 17.
On the other hand, Graeme Toy, Robyn Hyland, Moiann Papageorgiou, Ron Harrison (s) led until the seventeenth end and were unable to hold back a late surge from Mooroopna to lose the game 21 – 23.
WEEKEND PENNANT DIVISION THREE
Not the best start to the season with a loss at home to Rushworth 2 – 66 to 14 – 85.
Howard Geldard, Kate Donovan, Josh McDonald, Brett McDonald (s) had a very hesitant start being seven down winning only three of the first twelve ends played.
They found their mojo and won seven of the last ten ends to claim a come from behind victory 23 – 18.
Nyoli Bell, Glen Bell, Spud Furletti, Dennis McGregor (s) lost by six shots 14 – 20 after battling all game against an accurate Rushworth team.
Fay Hateley, Graham Lewis, Grace Kenworthy, Noel Slater (s) were only two shots down with five ends to play.
However, it was Rushworth that fared the better scoring nine shots over the remaining ends for the win 27 – 17.
Pam Pedder, Donna Rowley, Geoff Hateley, Jake Wall (s) were outclassed by a inform Rushworth rink losing 12 – 36.
WEEKEND PENNANT DIVISION SEVEN.
Avenel were given a bowls lesson by Seymour losing 0 – 17 to 14 – 61.
Kyle Pedder, Graeme Toy, Ross Sinclair, Jenny Furletti (s) were in struggle street the entire game with Seymour dominating for the entire game for a 36 – 8 win.
Walter Pedder, Ron Harison, Marion Gittus, Charlie Kemp(s) kept in close check with Seymour till Seymour accelerated away scoring fourteen shots to zip on the last six ends for the 25 – 9 win.
Congratulations to Walter Pedder on his first game of Pennant Bowls at just 15 years of age.
DELIBERATE APPROACH: David Cerini delivers a precise bowl down the green.
BEST
Mixed results mark Euroa Bowls Club season opener
By GREG BLATCHFORD
THE first round of Pennant Bowls has been completed and it would be fair to say that we had a mixed bag of results with some wins, some losses and a forfeit.
In Midweek Pennant Division one travelled to Kyabram to tackle the bombers on their home green where we secured two points with one rink victorious on the day.
The overall result was 51-63 to the locals.
Ken Sutcliffe, Bill Taylor, Anne Sutcliffe and Kerrie Steers 21- 20.
Shane Drysdale, Bill Sargood, Charmaine Reid and Margaretha Cerini 17-18.
Tony Kingma, Jan Watters, Kevin Milner and Pauline Naylor 13-25.
Division four received a forfeit from Alexandra due to player unavailability which was disappointing but as they say every cloud has a silver lining.
Alexandra at home is a tough gig so we bank the points and prepare for the next game.
Division five hosted Tatura Hilltop and recorded our first victory of the season with a 62 to 41 result securing 14 points.
A great start to the season.
Marg Goode, Noel Moon, Marion McMartin and George Andrews 24-11.
Ray Day, Brian Bamford, James Dunn and Beth Alston 15-18
Neville Harris, Mavis Bruce, Mark Jervies and Ken Drysdale 23-12.
In Weekend Pennant Division one was at home to Shepp Park, Division four travelled to East Shepp and Division six headed west to Nagambie.
Results as follows:
Division one versus Shepp Park-70 to 103 and two points.
Shane Drysdale, Bill Sargood, Bill Jennings and John Groat 36-07.
Ken Sutcliffe, Marc Stevens, Max Griffiths and David Cerini 13-29.
Tony Kingma, Jan Watters, Charmaine Reid and Kev Milner 09-43.
Bill Taylor, Jeremy Boruch, Don
Steers and Keith Kruse 12-24.
Division four versus East Shepp-88 to 66 and 14 points.
Richard Noble, Lindsay Cocking, Ross Withers and Noel Moon 24-12.
Doug Maconochie, Margarethas Cerini, Kerrie Steers and Anne Sutcliffe 19-22.
Jim Perry, Greg Blatchford, Brian Bamford and Buffy McFarlane 28-13.
Alex Grant, Libby Byrne, Gordon Grant and Beryl Harris 17-19.
Division six versus Nagambie-59 to 64 and two points.
Neville Harris, Marg Goode, Roly Simpson and David Llewellen 16-21.
James Dunn, Ray Day, Ken Drysdale and Beth Alston 21-25.
Tim Scarlett, Ian South, Mark Jervies and George Andrews 22-18.
Next week Division one travel to Kyabram, Division four face Tallygaroopna at home and Division six take on Violet Town-also at home.
Last Wednesday saw 24 play-
ers take part in Social Bowls with eight sides competing in three games of two bowl triples with the winning team being the combination of Bill Taylor, Michael from Melbourne and Brian Diffey. There was a large number at the Clubhouse on Friday Night when we drew the first three Nifty 50 numbers for the year with the lucky punters being Jamie (any number can win) Greasley, Ian (heading in the right direction) South and Bill (show me the money) Sargood.
If you look at the notice board you will see that Umpire Doug is posing some scenarios in relation to happenings on the green and what needs to be done as a result.
If you haven’t checked them out yet have a look.
There was one such incident yesterday with the mat being placed on the wrong line and the jack rolled and some bowls delivered before this was noticed. What should have happened?
All the best and bowl well.
TIGHT CONTEST: Shane Drysdale gears up for a close game.
FOCUSED AND READY: Marc Stevens keeps his eye on the jack.
LOVELY LAY: John Groat showcases impeccable technique on the green. PHOTOS: Dale Mann
PREPARATION: Charmaine Reid focuses on balance and precision as she prepares to deliver her bowl during the match.
New beginnings as Violet Town FNC revives ambitions for 2025
■ From back page
These back-to-back eliminations highlighted the team’s inability to progress deep into the finals despite respectable finishes during the regular season.
By 2017, Violet Town seemed to be back to their best.
They finished at the top of the ladder and entered the finals series as strong favorites to claim another premiership.
However, football can be cruel, and despite their dominant form throughout the season, they suffered a heartbreaking loss to Nagambie in the Grand final.
After their 2017 disappointment, Violet Town experienced a significant drop in performance.
In 2018, they slumped to fourth from the bottom on the ladder, a position they have struggled to improve upon in the last six years.
The Violet Town Club is now gearing up for an exciting 2025 season as they have recently announced their senior netball and football coaches, with trials set to begin in the coming weeks.
With a strong focus on growth and community engagement, the club is looking forward to building on its success from the previous year and strengthening its connection with local players.
Violet Town season will wrap up officially on Saturday, November 23, prior to the Presentation and Comedy Night event.
All returning and new players are welcome to join the club as they start their preparations for the season ahead.
The club is looking to build on the momentum from last year’s successful junior sides while addressing challenges in the senior and reserves teams.
The club has also announced Brad Gleeson as
the new senior coach for the Violet Town Football Club for the upcoming year.
Gleeson brings valuable leadership qualities to the role, having spent time across Euroa and Violet Town over his journey.
His strong leadership and deep connections to the local community made him the ideal candidate for the job.
President Matt Holmes shared his thoughts on Brad’s appointment.
“Brad has leadership qualities that we believe will be invaluable as we work to develop our younger players.
He already has connections to our club and former players, which is a huge benefit.
Our focus now is to reconnect with former players and improve our overall numbers, particularly in the senior and reserves teams.”
He emphasized the importance of developing the next generation of talent while addressing the immediate challenges in the senior team.
“The priority for me is to address the challenges with player numbers.
The young kids have been under a lot of pressure, often playing two games a week.
We need to give them some relief and build depth in the squad.
We’ve only won two games in the last two years, so we have a lot of work to do, but the support from the community has been fantastic.
They’ve stuck with the club, and now it’s time to reward that loyalty with success.”
The reaction to Brad’s appointment has been overwhelmingly positive, with
the club managing to retain its current players and attract new ones.
Holmes emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong connection to the local football culture, which Gleeson’s experience helps foster.
“Having someone who understands the local football community is crucial,” said Holmes.
“Brad has not only strong ties with some of our current players but also brings new connections that will help the club grow.”
While recruitment is still in full swing, Matt was excited to announce some early commitments, including Pat Horsburgh, JD Hayes, Robbie Wilson, Ash Hobbs, and Klay Giovannini.
These new additions are expected to strengthen the team and help Violet Town compete at a high level in
the upcoming season.
“Recruitment has been a big focus for us, and I’m pleased with how it’s shaping up,” said Gleeson.
“We’ve managed to secure some talented players, including a few with deep ties to Violet Town.
The goal is to build a team that not only competes but also connects with the community.
It’s not just about the talent on the field - it’s about creating a club culture that everyone is proud to be a part of.”
Reflecting on the club’s journey since COVID, Holmes shared a hopeful outlook for the future of Violet Town Football Club:
“Our club went through a full reset after the pandemic.
While we made finals in 2022, we were heavily reliant on traveling players
from Melbourne, many of whom we lost at the end of the season,” he said. “As a committee, we made it a priority to focus on our junior development.
We started with an Under 12s team in 2021 and now have three junior sides, with plans for a fourth.
By continuing to grow our local talent, we aim to minimize our reliance on traveling players in the future.”
With an eye on the future, the Violet Town Club is ready to take the next step in its development, and the community is encouraged to support the players and coaches as they embark on a new chapter.
“Brad’s appointment is a real turning point for us,” Holmes added. “We’re committed to rebuilding this club and reconnecting with our community.
The passion is there, and with the right leadership and support, we can start to see the results we’ve been working toward for the last few years.”
With Gleeson’s leadership, Violet Town is set for a promising season ahead.
Along with the netball department, which is looking to build for the year.
Netball Trials for all grades are set to commence on Thursday, November 21, with enthusiastic players ready to compete for spots in the upcoming season.
A Grade trials will be led by Jessie Kipping, while Maggie Hamill will take charge of the B Grade.
Prue Holmes will oversee both the C Grade and under 17s, with other talented coaches for the junior netballers, including Kayla Jones, Rachel Brown, Megan Bamford, Macey Ross, and Bianca Robins.
This mix of experienced coaches, players and fresh talent is expected to create a dynamic season for Violet Town Netball / Football club.
ON THE MOVE: Ash Hobbs is a dynamic player capable of turning a game with his explosive speed and exceptional skill.
GOAL SNEAK: Robbie Wilson is set to play a pivotal role in the Lions’ forward line, bringing his sharp instincts and finishing ability to the attack.
Matt Teasdale shines as Euroa Blue rolls Numurkah
GATHER Round saw all sides competing in the Goulburn Murray Lawn Tennis Association play at Kyabram (GM2) and Cobram (GM3).
Grant Davey’s GM2 side came away from round two action with a big win, due in part to three forfeited sets from opponent the Numurkah Raiders.
Number one man and new recruit Matt Teasdale had a good afternoon by winning his singles match 6-1 and Kristen Davey was impressive by also winning her singles match and her mixed match with partner Grant Davey.
The final score was Numurkah 28 to Euroa Blue 65.
The GM2 Open men’s side had another impressive win, this time accounting for the Kialla Colonels.
Bede Redfern, Michael Kelly and Mick Nolen kept their records intact by winning all their sets.
The team struggled in the doubles, but the boys had already pulled away.
The final score was Kialla 49 to Euroa White 65.
DIGGING DEEP: Ro Ellis loses her balance but still has enough power to deliver a well-timed shot.
Also falling just short was Euroa Red in GM3.
Caroline Keenan and Avie Hill battled on.
Robyn Johnson proved to be a handy pick-up by taking on the number one position and winning all her sets.
The final score was Swanpool 54 to Euroa 38.
In Division two of the BDTA, David Vaughan is thrilled with his side’s effort after it pushed reigning premier Swanpool all the way to fall just short.
Captain Jake Hill had to pull a few rabbits out of his hat to remain competitive with the Cobram Crickets.
The men had a great day to claim all their sets while the women in Ronnie Doxey,
And while they were equal on sets, the Crickets won more games.
The final score was Cobram 65 to Euroa 53.
It was better news for the other Euroa side in that divi-
sion where it proved to be a one-sided affair against the Cobram Cobras.
Euroa Green did not concede a set to claim all ten.
The final score was Cobras 36 to Euroa 76.
Rowena Ellis’ side had 14 games in hand at the end of play to claim a comfortable victory.
The final score was Strathbogie 49 to Euroa Lawn 63.
And the chocolates went to Euroa Lawn after its encounter with Strathbogie in Division one of the BDTA.
ON THE CHARGE: Will Davey steps in and nails a powerful forehand winner, taking control of the rally.
mid-court shot.
FOCUS: Marja Gjandergen with perfect concentration, setting herself up for a powerful play.
PREPARATION: Ronnie Doxey positions for the forehand return.
AND WAITING: Maya Walsh eyes the ball with intense focus, ready to make her next move.
TOTAL FOCUS: Jane Fuge stays locked in, perfectly covering her forehand.
PHOTOS: Dale Mann
WELL-TIMED:
Numurkah gave Euroa a run for their money, but Ethan Saxon stays locked in, keeping his eye on the ball.
TAKING CHARGE:
Euroa looks for a breakthrough, tossing Henry Taylor the ball with determination.
OFFLINE: The central umpire signals a wide, leaving Conor McCombe in disbelief.
Numurkah sets massive target as Euroa A Grade struggle to chase
By JACK WILSON
EUROA A Grade travelled up the GV Highway to take on Numurkah in Round three of the Haisman Shield.
Captain Scott Hamilton won the toss and sent Numurkah in to bat on a pitch that was made for batting.
From the opening over, Numurkah’s batters were on the front foot with both openers scoring freely and it wasn’t until the 37th over Euroa finally snared a wicket with a great catch from Will Jackson off the bowling of Siva Velegala.
Numurkah scored 1-293 at the end of their 45 overs.
With a large total to chase, Euroa made a very shaky start by losing 3-4 within the opening three overs.
The total was way too huge for Euroa to chase but managed to face all the overs with smart batting from Walter Jackson, Scott Hamiton, Andrew Squires, Lachie Hill and Marc Hornby. Euroa finished 7-108.
Euroa’s A Grade’s next game is up against Kyabram at the Friendlies with the first ball at 12:30pm on Saturday.
SCORECARD: Euroa 7-108 (S Hamilton 35, Walter Jackson 19) def by Numurkah 1-293 (S Velagala 1-48).
Euroa B Grade hosted Numurkah in Round three of the B Grade Competition at the Friendlies Oval.
A delay of 30 minutes due to the condition of the pitch which meant the loss of two overs, captain Carl Norton lost the toss with Numurkah electing to bat first.
Euroa’s opening bowlers worked hard with the new ball and halfway through the ninth over Henry Jackson got the ball to be snicked to the hands of Norton at first slip. It wasn’t until the 23rd over Euroa was able to snare another wicket with Grayson Kirk clean bowling the batter.
Ethan Saxon achieved his first wicket in senior cricket in the 38th over when Ryan Hill took a won-
derful catch in the deep then two overs later, Ethan got another one with a beautiful ball dismantling the Numurkah’s batter stumps. Numurkah ended their 43 overs on 4-223.
With a huge total to chase, Euroa made a bad start when Saxon was out caught and bowled in the first over.
Ryan Hill came out and from the beginning he was smashing Numurkahs bowlers to all ends of Friendlies.
Hill battered his way to 11 fours and two sixes before he was stumped on 85 off 55 balls.
Euroa in the end was all out for 104.
Euroa’s B Grade’s next game is up against Kyabram at Kyabram’s Rec Reserve with the first ball at 12:30pm on Saturday.
SCOREBOARD: Euroa 104 (R Hill 85, C McCombe 6) def by Numurkah 4-223 (E Saxon 2-22, H Jackson 1-30).
D Grade unfortunately had to forfeit due to lack of numbers. Saturday, they hosts’ Central Park/
Euroa Veterans Cricket narrowly fall to Benalla in final over
By DAN GODSMARK
LAST Sunday, the Euroa Veterans cricket team made their way to Benalla, full of confidence and ready for what would be a closely contested match.
The seasoned Benalla Veterans team, boasting 104 matches of collective experience, presented a tough challenge for Euroa in this hard-fought battle.
Euroa were sent into bat first, with their opening pair, the everreliable Dave Gleeson (33*) and Rick O’Bree (24), setting a solid foundation.
Gleeson, who has been in fine form all season, was joined by potential rising star Gary Abley, who contributed 17 runs before being dismissed.
Tony Vantin and Phil Brown also added valuable runs, though the middle order struggled to fully capitalize on the strong start.
Despite this, Euroa managed to post a competitive total of 157, setting Benalla a challenging target.
In the field, Euroa’s bowlers worked tirelessly to put pressure on the Benalla batsmen.
Gleeson, who was in the thick of the action, led the charge with the ball, supported by Mick O’Brien, Phil Brown, Roger McKernan, and Tony Vantin.
Each bowler displayed good control, and their efforts were complemented by a strong fielding performance, creating multiple opportunities to restrict Benalla’s scoring. Heading into the final over, Euroa had Benalla at 155 runs, leaving the match hanging in the balance.
As tension mounted, the game took a dramatic turn in the final over.
Despite tight bowling from captain Phil Brown and a spirited fielding effort, Benalla managed to edge past the target with a few fortunate late boundaries.
Euroa’s hopes of securing a victory slipped away, but their competitiveness and fighting spirit were evident.
It was a narrow defeat, but one that showcased the team’s resilience and determination.
St Brendan’s at the Memorial with the first ball at 12:30pm.
Under 16 Ladder: 1. Northerners; 2. Tatura; 3. Euroa; 4. Old Students / Nagambie; 5. Karramomus Team Rowan; 6. Mooroopna; 7. Karramomus Team Hooper; 8. NDCSTB
A Grade Ladder: 1. Tatura ; 2. Numurkah; 3. Nagambie; 4. Katandra Eagles; 5. Waaia; 6. Kyabram Redbacks CC; 7. CPSTB Senior; 8. Karramomus; 9. Old Students; 10. Pine Lodge; 11. Shepparton Youth Club United; 12. Mooroopna; 13. Euroa
B Grade Ladder: 1. Numurkah; 2. Karramomus; 3. CPSTB Senior; 4. Tatura; 5. Northerners; 6. Nagambie; 7. Shepparton Youth Club United; 8. Old Students; 9. Waaia; 10. Mooroopna; 11. Katandra Eagles; 12. Kyabram Redbacks CC; 13. Euroa
D Grade Ladder: 1. Old Students; 2. Pine Lodge; 3. CPSTB; 4. Numurkah Senior Men; 5. Tatura; 6. Mooroopna Senior; 7. Karramomus; 8. Shepparton Youth Club United; 9. Northerners; 10. Euroa.
While the final result went in Benalla’s favour, there were many positives for Euroa.
The performances from all players, both with the bat and ball, were encouraging and have set the stage for their next fixture against Wangaratta this coming Sunday.
Euroa will look to bounce back and convert their narrow loss into a win.
In other exciting news for Euroa, Dave Gleeson has been selected to represent Victoria in the National Championships in Brisbane.
Having been a consistent performer all season, Gleeson’s inclusion in the Victorian team is a well-deserved recognition of his talent and hard work.
He will be representing the Vic White Division Two side and will be looking for a strong performance on the national stage in November.
The Euroa Veterans team will be training this Wednesday at the Friendlies Nets, with high anticipation for a strong showing in their upcoming match.
Let’s go, Euroa Vets.
FULL FLIGHT: Henry Taylor charges towards the crease, ready to make his mark.
Euroa Croquet Wombats sweep
Numurkah White
By BERNICE McKINN
NURMURKAH White welcomed the Euroa Wombats last week.
Euroa enjoyed the tea and coffee on arrival then went out and bang three games were won by them.
The only winner for Numurkah being Lillian Jurey 7/4.
The second block of singles were even, nothing separating the two teams with two games each.
Progressive scoreline after the singles had the Wombats leading 5/45 opposed to Numurkah 3/43.
In the doubles matches Anne Murray teamed up with Bernice McKinn to win 7/4 for the Euroa Wombats.
Euroa’s Chris Chittick and Libby Woodhouse also chalked up a victory 7/6.
Anne Murray and Chris Chittick had another win for Euroa. You guessed it 7/6.
The final doubles were really just a formality with Numurkah’s Glenys Londey and Lillian Jurey winning yet another 7/6.
Final scoreline Euroa Wombats 8/72 to Numurkah White 4/66.
Anne Murray stood tall for the Wombats winning all four of her matches.
Euroa Rams Captain, Kevin Milner gathered his troops to welcome the Shepparton Magpies to the beautiful surroundings of the Euroa Croquet Club.
Great welcome Kevin.
The Rams won seven of the first eight games.
Scoreline at the end of the singles showed Euroa 7/53 hoops to the Magpies 1/33.
Rob Houston and Wayne Comer from Shepparton dug deep to win the first of the doubles for the Magpies 7/5.
The three remaining doubles however were won by the Euroa Rams.
Final scores Euroa Rams 10/79 to Shepparton Magpies 2/46.
The Pennant season has now reached the halfway mark.
Drop into Euroa Croquet Club on Thursday and see what everyone is talking about.
Happy hooping.
Hopes for finals glory alive in Violet Town
GREEN shoots are starting to sprout at Violet Town as a familiar face steps up to lead the charge.
With a history of Grand final success more than a decade old, the club is eager to climb the ladder and make its mark once again.
To truly grasp the heartbreak and the significance of the new coach for the local community, you first need to understand the club’s past.
BY DAN GODSMARK dgodsmark@
nemedia.com.au
In 2012, Violet Town was widely regarded as one of the most dominant teams in KDFL history.
They stormed their way to the top of the Kyabram District Football League (KDFL), finishing the season in grand style with a
dominant victory over Undera in the grand final.
Despite their 2012 glory, the years that followed saw Violet Town endure a series of ups and downs.
In 2014, they managed to finish in fifth place, securing a spot in the finals.
However, their finals campaign was short-lived as they were knocked out in the
elimination final by Nagambie.
A similar fate befell them in 2015, where they limped to sixth only to lose to Stanhope in another elimination final loss.
The 2016 season followed a familiar pattern of disappointment, with Violet Town falling out of the finals race after a loss to Merrigum in yet another elimination final.
■ Continued page 21
COMMUNITY COACH: Brad Gleeson is eager to bring local, talented players into the fold, boosting the young brigade and building a team that reflects Violet Town’s strong community spirit.
