Dr Michael Carr-Gregg visited Euroa and Nagambie last week and spoke to over 130 people about developing tools and strategies to look out for the mental wellbeing of young people. However, Dr CarrGregg’s main mission is a bit more mandatory.
■ Story page 3
By ANDY WILSON
PLANS to extend the operating hours of the Euroa Pool by using volunteers may still be possible, despite Strathbogie Shire Council rejecting the initial proposal at its meeting on Tuesday, 18 February.
A petition signed by 18 local residents was received by council in December and sought the extension of the pool’s summer operating hours by using volunteers.
An investigation into the proposal by the Director of Community and Planning reported several constraints due to numerous legal and safety compliance obligations.
Council voted unanimously to decline the o er of using volunteers
and extending the pool hours due to the report’s conclusions.
Councillor Gregory Carlson said he moved the resolution for the vote ‘with reluctance’ given the enthusiasm behind the petition and the demonstrated professionalism of the company hired to manage the pool, Belgravia Leisure.
“The report is very comprehensive and covers all the relevant issues that we have to consider,” Cr Carlson said.
“We’re talking about the safety of individuals (and) we all know that the operation of public pools is now a very highly regulated environment.
“The operation and the performance of the contractors who run all
the pools in the shire apparently is measuring up quite well.”
Cr Carlson said that although being a small community meant that Euroa could be disadvantaged compared to ‘our city cousins’, the percentage of locals involved in volunteering was almost twice the state average.
He also said that other council-run pools in Victoria did have operations managed by volunteers.
“Here we have a group of people who…are o ering this voluntary work and, of course, they’ve run into a brick wall.
“However, there are shires in this state that do have voluntary
people running their pools.
“I think we’re under an obligation to nd out just how they do that and what are the implications and how they’ve addressed the very real issues that have to be addressed as outlined in the report that we’ve been presented with.”
Cr Carlson told council he would go on a fact nding mission to other shire councils during the non-swimming season.
“We just simply want to know what groups are operating, how they’re operating, and how they’re complying with the regulations that they have, to satisfy the public safety requirements of a public asset.”
As the flu season approaches, getting your flu shot is more important than ever. While the flu can sometimes be mild, for compromised patients, it can also lead to severe complications, such as hospitalization and even death. The good news is, the flu
vaccine can help prevent severe illness or at least make it milder, if you do get sick. Who should get the flu shot?
The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older, but it’s especially important for those at higher risk. This includes children under 5, adults over 65, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic medical conditions like heart disease, asthma, or diabetes. Those with weakened immune systems, due to illness or medication, should also
prioritize vaccination.
Why do I need a flu shot every year?
Influenza viruses change each year, evolving into new strains. This means the flu vaccine is updated annually to target these new strains, ensuring you have the best protection possible. As a result, it’s essential to get the flu vaccine every year.
When should I get the flu shot?
The best time to get vaccinated is before the flu season starts, typically by May to June, or as soon as it is available. However, it’s never too late to get vaccinated, since the flu can circulate throughout the year. Most people only need one dose each year. However, children aged 6 months to 9 years, receiving the vaccine for the first time, or individuals who’ve had an organ or stem cell transplant,
may need two doses, spaced 4 weeks apart.
Can I get the flu shot if I have allergies?
Yes, it’s safe to get the flu shot even if you have allergies, including egg allergies. The only exception is if you’ve had a severe allergic reaction to a previous flu vaccine. If you have concerns, speak with your healthcare provider.
What are the side effects?
Mild side effects, such as fever, fatigue, body aches, or soreness at the injection site, are common. Serious side effects are rare. The flu vaccine doesn’t contain live viruses, so it cannot give you the flu.
Get vaccinated and help protect yourself and your community from the flu this season.
THE Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA) says the federal government’s announced investment in Medicare and GP training will assist more rural patients to access a ordable care.
RDAA president Raymond Lewandowski said that any investment in health was welcome, including investment in primary care, and that he hoped to see an increase in the number of rural patients able to be bulk billed a er November.
“All rural doctors want to provide a ordable health care to our patients” Dr Lewandowski said.
“Unfortunately, the reality of providing the complex care needed to patients in rural and remote communities, who simply do not have easy or affordable access to other health care professionals, means that rural GPs have to provide ad-
Benefits may overshadow ‘suite’ of other recommendations
vanced and complex care that is outside the scope of most urban GP practices.”
Dr Lewandowski said longer consultations and increased services, such as surgical and mental health care, added signi cant cost to the running of a rural GP practice.
“These practices are more o en than not small familyowned businesses, that already bulk bill as many disadvantaged patients as they possibly can.”
He said the expansion of the bulk bulling incentive to include all patients and not just children under 16 and concession card holders, means that for some practices bulk billing will be able to be extended to more patients in need.
“It will be particularly helpful for doctors who already bulk bill patients who
do not qualify for the incentive but are struggling to afford appointments.
“Additional funding for these patients will be extremely welcome for the doctors who otherwise provide this care at a reduced rate.”
Dr Lewandowski said ‘tiering’ of incentive for rural and remote settings had also helped address the additional costs of providing health care in the bush, and praised the RDAA for its advocacy to make this a key principle built into the bulk billing incentive.
“It has already enabled many rural and remote practices to provide some bulk billed services, but to go to full bulk billing would require further consideration by individual practices.
“The additional 12.5% incentive for practices that
only bulk bill will likely be out of the reach of many rural practices.
“The cost of providing the advanced level of care needed within rural communities, the shortage of health professionals, and the smaller patient cohorts are limiting factors that result in most rural practices having to mixed-bill in order to survive.”
Dr Lewandowski said the RDAA was having active discussions with its members across a range of rural and remote medical practices to better understand how the incentive could be applied.
He said the changes would present welcome additional investment for practices that do bulk bill or have a signicantly high rate of bulk billing and that Aboriginal Medical Services in particular will bene t due to the exclusive
bulk billing model they have adopted.
RDAA has been a long-time advocate for broader reform of health funding and Dr Lewandowski said there had been many reform recommendations sitting with the Department of Health to put forward to Government.
“To really address the issues plaguing our health system, particularly in rural and remote areas, practices need to have other models of funding available to them – not just feefor-service (and) the changes to bulk billing are a continuation of the same funding framework that we know is no longer t for purpose.
“We worry that the current suite of reform recommendations already on the table will be overshadowed by the bulk billing changes and will result in a missed opportu-
nity for longer lasting and more e ective reform.”
With the federal opposition matching the Medicare announcement, the new policy will come into e ect in November regardless of which party wins government at the next election.
RDAA said it would continue to work with all parties to advocate for election commitments that will make a di erence ‘on the ground’ in rural communities.
“RDAA’s election priorities include initiatives like increased rural training places, accessible childcare for rural health workers, better access to specialist care and a national rural health strategy,” Dr Lewandowski said.
“We look forward to seeing more policies aimed at improving health outcomes for rural patients over the coming months in the lead-up to the federal election.”
THE state government has reported a record year for emerging solar homes which have helped Victorians cut $1 billion o the installation of solar panels, energy e cient heat pumps, and batteries.
Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio today announced another installation of more than 78,000 solar panels, hot water systems, and batteries in 2024.
“We’re helping busy families slash their energy bills by making it cheaper to install solar, so they can power their homes with free electricity from the sun and slash $1,000 o their bill each and every year,”
Ms D’Ambrosio said.
“The huge uptake of solar in Victoria has helped push daytime wholesale prices to historic lows – meaning lower power bills for everyone.”
Solar energy is now installed in 30 per cent of Victorian homes, which is more than
double the number seven years ago.
Ms D’Ambrosio said such installations allowed yearly savings of about $1,000 when powering homes with solar, $1400 if combined with a hot water heat pump, or over $1600 with a battery.
The program has seen more than 300,000 solar panels installed, producing over 2,100 megawatts of power which is the equivalent of Loy Yang A, one of the largest coal fired power stations in Victoria.
More than 31,000 energy-e cient hot water systems were installed in 2024 - a 151 per cent increase in installations on the previous year and the highest increase across all solar home incentives.
Eligible households can access a $1,400 rebate to install solar panels, a further $1,400 interest-free loan, and a further rebate of up to $1,000 to replace their
The only thing le that will turn things around says youth expert
By ANDY WILSON
MICHAEL Carr-Greg has one mission which he is determined to accomplish in the complex world of child and adolescent wellbeing.
The renowned clinical psychologist intersperses time at his practice with touring the country to arm parents, teachers, and carers with the tools to help young people in their lives.
Behind his informative and engaging approach lays a quest to make the biggest di erence.
“I say it to everyone that we need to get this message out there,” Dr Carr-Gregg said.
“And it is that I hold the belief that state and federal governments should make it mandatory for every single teacher in every single school to have youth mental health rst aid training.
“It’s the only thing that we’ve got le that will turn this thing around.”
This ‘thing’ is the labyrinth of challenges to children before and as they reach adolescence which Dr Carr-Gregg agrees is di erent to the lie of the land a decade ago.
“The research tells us that we have not had a massive improvement in youth mental health.
“I think I am much more aware now of what replacing a playbased childhood with a screenbased childhood has wrought.
“And it has not been good.”
Local parents, teachers, and carers took full advantage of Dr Carr-Gregg’s visits to Euroa and Nagambie last week where his respected expertise in raising children, assessing adolescents
By ANDY WILSON
GIVING the kids a day o last Thursday was a worthy investment for Euroa Secondary College.
Principal Anna Eddy ensured that all teachers and non-teaching sta were available to take advantage of Dr Carr-Gregg’s visit.
“It’s not o en that you have such an expert in the eld here in little old Euroa,” Ms Eddy said.
“We had a student-free day so that all of our sta could go to reinforce that we have a consistent approach to student support, that everyone is on the same page.”
Ms Eddy said the day’s experience added to the college’s student wellbeing practices.
at risk, and empowering parents drew a total of over 130 people on Wednesday and Thursday.
Dr Carr-Gregg presented team challenges to the audience and showcased a real-life scenario which the groups then analysed.
He also drew extensively from the clinical research that has seen him publish 17 books, most notably the popular title Surviving Adolescents
Dr Carr-Gregg, who founded youth cancer support group Canteen in 1985, said he actively participated in youth mental health rst aid training and saw it as being just as important.
“The point of becoming a youth mental health rst aid trainer is you actually give someone who turns up a mental health rst aid certi cate, and that’s valuable.”
In terms of overall tools, Dr
UNIQUE OPPORTUNIY: Over 130 people attended the three presentations held over two days to take advantage of the nation’s leading child psychologist. INSET: IN FULL FLIGHT: Michael Carr-Gregg is one of Australia’s most widely known and respected clinical psychologists with expertise in raising young people. PHOTOS: Andy Wilson
Carr-Gregg said the most important thing for parents and carers was to have ‘a real eye out’ for changes in children’s behaviour.
“Particularly around their sleeping, their diet, no longer enjoying things that used to give them pleasure; also, regularly check in with the phrase ‘I have noticed things are not going ok’.
“Then say ‘help me understand what’s going on’.
“I think we have to de nitely monitor screen time, and monitor - and not forget - the importance of diet, sleep, exercise, and good friends.”
Carr-Gregg says the mandatory training of teachers in youth mental health is the ‘number one’ issue for him.
“What’s interesting is that in Britain every organisation has to not only have a rst aid o c-
er but now they are introducing legislation saying every organisation with more than 50 people has to have a mental health rst aid o cer as well.
“But I say that in schools this accredited mental health training has to be given to all teachers - and not in adult mental health rst aid, but in youth mental health rst aid, because they are di erent.
“We need to understand that early intervention and prompt treatment does work; and the only way you get that is to train people up to be the eyes and ears of the school.
“You must realise that in the Euroa and Nagambie communities, young people are only 20 per cent of the population.
“But they are 100 per cent of the future and we need to invest in that.”
Reinforcing what we do, and then some
“It is something we do already, knowing it is important to build connections and relationships with the students’ parents and caregivers at home so we can work alongside them at home to help build kids’ resilience and wellbeing.”
The college’s wellbeing leader Harris Dickason joined the school community in mid-2024 and brought his extensive experience to work closely with students.
classrooms,” Ms Eddy said.
Mr Dickason said he was ‘wrapped’ that the teaching sta got an insight of what goes on with students with their social media input and social changes.
He said the opportunity for sta to hear Dr Carr-Gregg would make those who don’t work in the wellbeing space more aware of the signs to look out for.
“It was good to create awareness, particularly with what can go on behind the scenes in the
kids’ lives,” Mr Dickason said.
“Unless you are tracking in that area, unless you work directly with kids and dive straight into recognizing things, sta in any profession may not have any idea that those things go on.”
Ms Eddy said the response from colleagues had been very positive.
“To Harris and me it was nothing new, but for other sta it was new material, in terms of how
trauma can really impact on adolescents on a day-to-day basis,” she said.
“The one-on-one studentteacher mentoring program we do really has its bene ts, and there are now ways we can embed the trauma informed practices into our classrooms. “That then helps our teachers create a safe and predictable environment for our students.”
Dr Carr-Gregg introduced the gathering to ‘islands of competence’, a concept that focuses on a person’s positive areas of ability, where they can challenge themselves and so develop resilience when faced with outside problems.
“The idea is to nd something that interests them and gives them positive recognition from their peers,” Dr Carr-Gregg said.
“Whether it be music, art, sport, drama, what is their ‘spark’?”
Ms Eddy saw islands of competence as being an opportunity for connecting non-academic activity with social development.
“We want our students to have a sense of belonging at this school, but they need also to have that sense of belonging at home and in their community.”
MARIA
Sat 8 March, 8pm & Sun 9 March, 4pm
Follows the life story of the world’s greatest opera singer, Maria Callas, during her nal days in 1970s Paris. Directed by Pablo Larraín and starring Academy Award®-winner Angelina Jolie as Maria Callas.
February Ordinary Council Meeting Wrap-Up
Euroa Swimming Pool Petition
Council considered a petition from the Euroa Swimming Club requesting extended operating hours at the Euroa Swimming Pool, with support from volunteers. After thorough investigation, Council has declined the request due to safety concerns. However, petitioners have been encouraged to join the pool’s Friends of Group to explore other ways to support the facility.
MAV State Council Motions
Council has approved the submission of three motions to the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) State Council meeting on May 16, 2025. These motions align with the MAV Strategy’s ten enabling priorities for 2024-2027 and reflect key issues relevant to local government. The three motions demonstrate Councils advocacy for ongoing financial sustainability and included: Emergency Services and Volunteers Funds, Natural Disaster Recovery Funding, Local Government Sustainability
Mid-Year Budget Review
Council reviewed the mid-year budget to assess financial performance for 2024-25 and inform future planning for 2025-26.
To learn more go to www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au
Our Community Our FutureDrop-in Sessions
You still have time to join us to share your ideas to help us form the Community Vision, Council Plan 2025-2029 as well as a number of strategic documents to establish the direction, projects and services of council o cers for the next four years and beyond.
Come and see us to have your say in person and learn more about opportunities to become involved:
• Wednesday 26 February 2025
04:00 pm to 06:00 pm at the Euroa Council Conference Room
Thursday 27 February 2025
04:00 pm to 06:00 pm at Violet Town Hall Cowslip Street
Alternatively, to have your say online go to www.share.strathbogie.vic.gov.au
Council will begin works to replace the old section of the Nagambie Foreshore Walk deck, located behind the Black Caviar Statue on High Street, starting 4 March 2025. The project is expected to take approximately 12 weeks to complete.
To ensure public safety, temporary fencing will be installed around the work site. The contractor’s amenities and material storage will be set up at the end of Blayney Lane, impacting access to the Blayney Lane Car Park, which will be limited throughout construction. However, the remainder of the Lake Nagambie Walk will remain open for pedestrians, except for the work area.
This project is funded through the State Government’s Council Flood Support Funds, with a total cost of $631,974.38 endorsed at the December 2024 Council meeting.
The upgraded foreshore walk will provide a safer and more enjoyable experience for visitors and locals alike, supporting tourism and encouraging longer and return visits to Nagambie. Thank you for your patience as we deliver this important improvement.
Are You Bogged Mate?
Life in the bush can be tough, and sometimes it’s easy to feel a bit bogged down. That’s why Strathbogie Shire Council is bringing “Are You Bogged Mate?”. This event is all about having real, honest conversations about the challenges country blokes face, in a way that makes sense.
Hosted by Mary O’Brien, a passionate advocate for rural mental health, the evening will be down-to-earth, relatable, and full of practical advice. It’s a chance to catch up with mates, enjoy a free dinner, and grab a drink at bar prices while hearing a talk that just might change the way you think about looking after yourself and those around you. No lectures, no judgment—just real talk in a comfortable setting. Mark your calendar and bring a mate!
Where: White Hart Hotel, Longwood
When: Friday, 21 March 2025
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
���� Dinner provided | ���� Drinks at bar prices Book now - http://tiny.cc/j1k9001
Reminder: Swimming Pool Season Closes March 10, 7pm
As summer winds down, so does our pool season! A friendly reminder that the last day for swimming at our local pools is Monday 10 March.
Until then, weekday hours remain 3 PM – 7 PM, Monday to Friday, and weekend hours are 12 PM – 7 PM, Saturday and Sunday. For full details on pool hours visit our website, and for weather-based closures visit the various pools Facebook pages.
Don’t miss your last chance to make a splash before the season wraps up!
Careers at Strathbogie
Grants O cer
• Full time, temporary
– 6 months
• Band 6 - $84,113 per annum
• Applications close 9am, Monday 3 March 2025
Administration Support O cer
• Full time or Part time, permanent opportunity
• Band 4 - $66,204 per annum
• Applications close 9am, Monday 3 March 2025
Visit www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/careers to find out more and apply today.
Ordinary Council Meeting
The March Ordinary Council Meeting will commence at 4pm on Tuesday 18th March 2025. Sta and the community are invited to attend the Euroa Community Conference Centre or to view the meeting online via the livestream link on the Council website at https://www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/meetings/
1800 065 993 www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au info@strathbogie.vic.gov.au
Follow us for regular updates @strathbogieshire
By ANDY WILSON
THE summer’s enduring dry weather saw ve res at Boho South and Marraweeney get attended to quickly over the weekend by Violet Town’s CFA brigade as it joined 35 other vehicles from brigades in neighbouring towns, including Strathbogie and Benalla.
The blazes started at about 10pm on Saturday, forcing CFA units to attend to them overnight until they were declared under control on Sunday at 6am.
Both the large and light tankers and forward command vehicle from the Violet Town Brigade were in attendance at the res a er having rst attended the re at Marraweeney from where they could see the other four burning, which they then joined.
Violet Town Brigade Captain Je Jennings said the four res appeared in quick succession with only one nearby house in danger.
The land was very rough, quite inaccessible and dangerous, hilly with steep gullies and lots of rocks and logs.
- VIOLET TOWN BRIGADE CAPTAIN JEFF JENNINGS
“We had three trucks protecting that house the whole night to keep it safe,” Captain Jennings said.
“There were three helicopters there also doing a bit of work for us, and they measured the burnt area at 61 hectares.
“The land was very rough, quite inaccessible and dangerous, hilly with steep gullies and lots of rocks and logs.”
Captain Jennings thanked all volunteers on the day as well as their families for their support.
Local resident Dawn Bray said in a post on the CFA’s Facebook page on Sunday a er-
noon that the summer was ‘not ending quickly enough’.
“A huge thank you to all involved in attending to the res near Boho South last night,” Ms Bray said.
“Our farm was less than a kilometre from one of the fires and we were glued to the BOM and Vic Emergency app all night (and) morning.
“While it was tense and we had no sleep, we are so very thankful for all (the CFA’s) efforts, along with Forest Fire Management Victoria crews.” Police are investigating the cause of the res. CFA sta were still at the site at publication.
LOCKED IN TO CONTAIN VIRUS:
One of Kinross’s three local egg production farms remains under quarantine as AgVic deals with cleaning up the bird flu outbreak.
LOCAL SUPPLY INTACT: Euroa locals still have a su icient supply of eggs at the town’s IGA supermarket; however, backyard chicken owners have restrictions on egg movement.
PHOTOS: Andy Wilson
By ANDY WILSON
A THIRD outbreak of H7N8 avian in uenza was conrmed at a Euroa property on Thursday, as authorities urge all domestic and commercial poultry and bird owners to keep their birds housed and not move manure or eggs from their properties.
Kinross Farms con rmed the outbreak is at their third egg production facility outside of Euroa which houses 260,000 chickens that will now be destroyed.
This brings the total number of bird losses for the company to 500,000.
detected quickly and managed immediately, in line with well-established national response arrangements to manage an avian in uenza outbreak.
“We thank Agriculture Victoria for its ongoing e orts on the a ected sites, and at our other sites where we continue to manage egg production and supply to customers, while maintaining strict biosecurity protocols.
VicEmergency said the property had been quarantined and the area impacted by restrictions is east of the Goulburn Valley Freeway for the Strathbogie Shire.
the local community for their ongoing support, especially towards our team members who live in the region.”
Both AgVic and Mr Szepe continue to assure the community that eggs and poultry products from supermarkets are safe to consume.
“We appreciate all customers who continue to support Kinross Farms,” Mr Szepe said.
Burton’s IGA in Euroa has drawn concern over its limit of two cartons per customer but has assured locals on a Facebook post that its eggs were not sourced from the infected local farms.
A community information message was issued by VicEmergency at 4pm for Euroa, Violet Town, Strathbogie, Ru y, Longwood, and Avenel to all bird owners, including domestic birds, and replaces the last community information notice issued on Thursday, 13 February.
Kinross Farms managing director Philip Szepe said the company had been closely monitoring all of its farms since the start of the current outbreak.
“It is not unusual for an avian in uenza outbreak to spread to neighbouring properties,” Mr Szepe said.
“This latest outbreak was
Poultry owners with more than 50 birds within the restricted area must house their birds immediately.
This applies to the area between Longwood and Euroa.
Mr Szepe said it was a very challenging time for his sta .
“Our teams across all sites are working tirelessly to manage this response and we appreciate their commitment to the work.
“(Their) day-to-day work is dedicated to ensuring the health and welfare of our birds, and we want to thank them all for their unwavering commitment to the recovery work as it unfolds.
“We also thank members of
“Although our egg supply is currently not impacted, we do have a two carton limit per customer to ensure all customers have equal access to eggs,” the post said.
A spokesperson for the supermarket said the limit was set to prevent Melbournebased visitors stocking up in the face of that city’s egg shortage and that local customers could be accommodated where needed.
Further information on the outbreak and bird restrictions can be found at https:// agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/animal-diseases/poultry-diseases/avian-in uenzabird- u#h2-0
(Euroa Township)
A quick storm on Sunday morning before 8am saw 4.4mm fall at Euroa, which was the total rainfall for the week up to Tuesday.
I WOULD like to express my disappointment and despair at the state of the Euroa Cemetery.
Whilst attending several funerals over the past few months I’ve noticed a steady decline in the appearance of both the new and old cemeteries.
On a very recent trip to visit my parents’ and family graves, I was absolutely saddened to nd the grass in the lawn cemetery dead as well as extremely unkept in all regards.
The toilets were locked, one main gate closed and lanes barricaded.
It would be virtually impossible for elderly persons to visit loved ones unless their graves were close to the main through road.
45-47 Railway Street, Euroa VIC 3666
General
Any one of us who have family interned at the Euroa cemetery have paid good money in good faith for it to be kept at a reasonable standard and shown dignity.
I know that there is a fully automatic watering system installed in the lawn section which I’m sure cost a considerable amount of money and yet goes unused.
I am also aware it has been a dry year but at least an attempt to keep the grass alive would be appreciated.
The new supposedly lawn section is an absolute disgrace.
I know I’m not alone in this matter, so maybe we all need to voice our opinions and let our
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
frustrations be heard.
This is not a criticism of the local voluntary committee members.
Terry Tilton, Euroa
I’M thinking I may not be the only ratepayer whose letterbox last Monday, 17 February had a third instalment notice for rates due on 28/02/2025.
The date of issue shows 07/02/2025.
All ne so far – but why the angry red printed “Arrears (due immediately)”?
Get your own house in order, Strathbogie Shire.
Cynthia Cato, Euroa
SOME politicians propose replacing coal- red power stations with nuclear reactors.
Even pro-nuclear group Nuclear for Australia concedes nuclear reactors use at least 1.2 times more water than comparable coal red power, and the proposed reactors are much larger than existing coal plants, meaning water use could more than double.
Some suggest desalination plants to supply water for nuclear reactors, but this requires seawater, and nearly all the proposed reactor sites are a long way inland. Desalination is also extremely costly.
A core principle of Farmers for Climate Action is protecting
regional water supplies and does not support making water scarcer or more expensive for farmers.
Natalie Collard Farmers for Climate Action
THE Allan Labor Government sold Victorians a dream that the return of the State Electricity Commission (SEC) was the silver bullet to solve the energy crisis and provide Victorians with reliable and affordable energy.
Independent economic agency Moody’s has released a detailed report that highlights Victorian power bills are set to increase by 45 to 65 per cent over the next 10 years.
Currently the average Victorian household spends $1310 a year on electricity, so Victorian families will need to nd an additional $851 a year to keep the lights on.
The reason for this is simply a result of poor decision making from the Allan Labor Government.
The Premier has put all her eggs in one basket by banning gas and pushing all Victorians onto electricity.
To make matters worse, Victoria’s energy grid is becoming less reliable as Labor turns o gas and coal power generation to rely solely on wind and solar.
While in theory this might be a good thing, Victoria simply does not have the infrastructure or the environment to support a 100
per cent weather-dependent energy grid.
The Nationals will take a wellthought out and commonsense energy policy to the next state election.
Danny O’Brien MP Leader of The Nationals
I AM sharing with the Euroa community my nomination as one of two Victorian-endorsed Senate candidates for the Australian Democrats at this year’s federal election.
As a farmer and small business owner in central Victoria I recognize the challenges impacting business owners around the state.
I have spent a fair bit of time around Euroa and Wangaratta as state representative of the community not-for-pro t organisation Rural Aid, visiting viticulturalists who were impacted by local bush res. I endeavour to visit Euroa very soon to meet the community and I will be speaking about women’s voices in agriculture, which is something I strongly advocate for.
The current cost-of-living has widened the gap between the wealthiest and the less fortunate.
Victorians deserve more, which is why I am running for the Senate, to bring about positive change.
The Democrats’ 1977 slogan “Keep the Bastards Honest” still rings true today and is the ideal that I aim to uphold in the Senate. Carly Noble, Arnold
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Email: edit.mcourier@nemedia.com.au. Fax: (03) 5775 1580
Post: Letters to the Editor Mansfield Courier, 98 High St, Mansfield 3722.
THE state government has been challenged on its claims of improved ambulance response times, with recent data showing results had fallen short of targets, including those in the local area.
Statewide ambulance transfer performance for October–December 2024 remained at 65–70 per cent, well below the government’s promised target of 90 per cent.
Shadow assistant minister for health Annabelle Cleeland said the government was failing to deliver and was instead blaming already overwhelmed hospitals.
“Instead of xing the root causes within our health system, the government’s response has been to punish hospitals already struggling under immense pressure,” Ms Cleeland said.
“With inadequate resourcing, forced hospital amalgamations, service cuts, and overworked paramedics, the health minister has chosen to shi blame rather than implement real solutions.”
Ambulance response times for
emergencies in the Euroa electorate also continued to miss targets.
The median response time for high priority, time critical incidents in the Strathbogie Shire was over 22 minutes.
Ms Cleeland also accused the government of avoiding scrutiny by failing to ensure full reporting of health agency data.
She said critical health service numbers had been incomplete for the second consecutive quarter, with gures missing from Albury Wodonga Health and Northern Health.
“Victorians have every right to ask ‘what is Labor trying to hide?’
” Ms Cleeland said
“This is a government that fails to take responsibility for the adverse impact they are having on our health services, and it is patients across our state that are paying the price.”
By KIRSTY HARRIS
VIOLET Town has a new boutique.
You might call it the Op Shop, now located at 31a Cowslip Street, but the team has done an excellent job of creating a beautiful shop that you simply must visit.
The move from the old location involved many volunteers and many hours so congratulations to everyone involved, meaning the best Op Shop in northeast Victoria is again open for business.
Of course, there’s not just clothes for sale but plenty of other items too, all at bargain prices.
Donations are again being accepted – the box is along the fence line in Hyacinth Street.
Unused tip passes are always welcome, too.
The Football/Netball Club is looking for a new coordinator for its café on VT market days.
A food handler’s certi cate will be required, and the appointee will need to be able to cook and make co ee, as well as nd and manage a team of volunteers.
Email hello@vtbnc.tidymail.co or violettownfnc@ gmail.com
Tickets are now on sale
for the 2025 Violet Town Music Festival on April 2627 from 10.30 am with a range of singers, songwriters, folk, soul, rock, and grunge artists at the Violet Town Gallery Museum at 20 Cowslip Street.
The festival will also include activities for children, an exhibition by Helena Gibson in the backART Gallery, an orchestral performance, a poets’ breakfast, and a Celtic dance hosted by Melbourne band Saoirse.
Tickets are $20 to $50 and are limited so bookings are essential at https://events. humanitix.com/2025-violettown-music-festival
For more information call or text 0417 166 824 or email bushgatherings@ gmail.com
The ‘3669 Lunch’ is returning for the year at the VT Community Hall supper room on the third Friday of each month, starting at 12.00 pm for 12.30 serving.
A roast and dessert will be served for $12.00 per head.
Bookings are essential and need to be made a week in advance – phone Mick O’Keefe 0473 623 983 or email Lisa at secretaryopshop@ gmail.com
The Honeysuckle Art
Festival themed ‘Luminous’ this year will be on March 2-16 at backART Gallery in Cowslip St, Violet Town, with the opening event on Sunday, 2 March at 3pm. Bookings essential – email honeysuckle3669@gmail. com or contact 0408 981 435.
Trivia on Tuesday nights at the pub has resumed with a keen group of teams looking to find useless information from the hidden pockets of their brains. It’s convivial, and new teams are welcome.
Thursdays from 1.00 pm the ‘Ladies Cave’ group meets at the Community Hall meeting room for an afternoon of craft such as knitting, crochet, crossstitch, and hand sewing. Afternoon tea at around 3pm at one of the local cafes. Entry by gold coin donation.
NEW FOODIE SOUGHT: The Violet Town Football Netball Club is seeking a new coordinator for their fundraising café at the monthly markets.
Jenny Houghton from Maygars Hill delighted resident’s at GraniteHill last week with a wine tasting session that was a great success.
The combination of champagne, red and white wines paired with fruit, wine, and cheese created a perfect atmosphere as Jenny spoke to each of the wines throughout the tasting experience
LUMINOUS AND OMINOUS: Violet Town’s much-anticipated Honeysuckle Art Exhibition is one of many things happening in Victoria’s famously first surveyed inland town.
PHOTO: Charmayne Lane
Good to see a few new businesses opening locally – Feminine Healing in Cowslip St, and Next Project Building Permits. Welcome.
And Some infrastructure works are happening in VT with GV Water having installed a new water main in part of Lily Street and another one along Hurt Street.
donation.
By ANDY WILSON
THE hiring of a US media company to promote the phasing out of Australia’s live sheep industry has been met with outrage from farmers.
Revelations that the federal government has allocated $2.3m to global company Universal Media were met with criticism from the opposition.
Nationals leader David Littleproud said live sheep export farmers had been dealt another ‘insulting’ blow by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry in awarding the tender to the Pennsylvania-based company.
“Labor continues to treat our live sheep farmers with callous regard,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Live sheep export farmers being forced to shut down their crucial trade will not be given even one cent of support until a er the next election.”
Australia’s live sheep export trade will end in 2028 and in December the government added a further $32.7 million to the $107 million transition assistance package designed to help individuals, communities, and businesses with the industry-wide change.
The package will deliver key elements relating to additional processing capacity for the sheep industry and community wellbeing.
Local sheep farmer David Laurence said eastern states would be a ected by the closing down of live exports.
“Western Australia couldn’t
be able to kill all their sheep, so once the export shuts down, they may come out east,” Mr Laurence said.
can end up in the eastern states, like when the season mucked up last year, a heap of sheep came over.”
2004, and sheep meat exports have quadrupled.
“It’s bloody terrible what they’ve done to the farmers over there.
“Most of our mutton goes to exports, and in Australia we consume nearly half of our lambs here.
“A lot of sheep from WA
According to government gures, live exports were worth almost $77 million of the $4.57 billion total lamb and mutton export in 202223.
Live sheep exports have shrunk by $338 million since
Mr Littleproud said the government had turned its back on the farming industry and treated live sheep farmers with contempt.
“In the meantime, Labor is happy to throw money at overseas companies to spruik their terrible plan,” he said.
“If elected, my rst role as Agriculture Minister will be to travel to the Middle East, to build those important relationships, and ensure the live sheep export trade in Australia remains.
“A future coalition government will reinstate the live sheep export trade.”
Mr Laurence said other countries which are expected to ll the market void a er the shutdown did not have Australia’s high animal welfare practices.
“That’s exactly right that more will die,” he said.
“There’s less sheep killed on boats than on farms –they are pretty well looked a er with the conditions these days.
“So, it de nitely won’t be the same standard – and Australia misses out.”
AUSTRALIAN farmers are set to tackle emissions from the ground up, with a free guide to develop and implement sustainable practices on farms.
The Towards Net Zero Agriculture Path nder is a joint initiative by the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) and CSIRO and is designed to be a practical guide to help farmers reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining productivity and competitiveness.
Farmers, managers, and advisers can use the tool to explore and adopt sustainable practices suited
to their business mix and farm management goals.
CEFC head of natural capital Heechung Sung said the innovative approach ‘exempli ed’ the power of science and nance working together.
“Path nder operates hand-inhand to help Australian farmers address climate challenges,” Ms Sung said.
“It empowers farmers with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions tailored to their operations, whether optimising fertiliser use or adopting methane-
Built on the site of the old saleyards, the Salvation Army barracks operated from this building in 1892-1959 and later being used as the towns first kindergarten between 1945 -1964.
A surviving recollection of one of Euroa’s Historic pasts and without a doubt one of the most unique examples of Gothic architecture.
The property features potential with superb gabled hall construction, timber floorboards & grand ceilings throughout.
Explore the potential to capitalise on the Heritage building with the commercial zoning and no heritage overlay providing enormous potential for restoration and development (STCA).
Situated in an idyllic location within walking distance to the shops, restaurants, cafes and other great amenities on offer in the heart of Euroa, a town full of rich history.
Rich in detail and significance this exquisite property offer the astute buyer an unparalleled opportunity to secure a rare historic holding.
Could this be your next unique cosmetic restoration project? This property won’t last long, so contact Bec today for a private inspection of one of Euroa’s finest historic buildings.
reducing pasture species.
“CEFC-backed discountednance-eligible activities, such as feed supplements, fertiliser optimisation, and carbon-sequestering plantings, bridge a critical gap for farmers keen to invest in sustainable practices.”
CSIRO Towards Net Zero lead Michael Battaglia said agriculture contributed billions to Australia’s GDP.
“To stay competitive and meet climate targets, we need new ways to enable our farmers to act, both on farms and in markets,” Dr Battaglia said.
“We must create pathways to help farmers deliver their low-emissions commodities into sustainability-focused supply chains.
“By integrating environmental sustainability with nancial viability, this collaboration helps to create a pathway for a prosperous, net zero agriculture sector.
“This needs to be a team game.”
Path nder also equips farmers with the knowledge to establish an emissions baseline, a key step in sustainability reporting.
Ms Sung said producers who demonstrated their emissions re-
ductions would have greater access to premium markets and competitive nancing and that potential borrowers were encouraged to use Path nder for nding information on investments that might be eligible for CEFC-backed discounted nance.
“As global supply chains demand higher transparency, these baselines will maintain market access and secure new opportunities,” she said.
For more information and to test drive the Path nder tool, visit: www.cefc.com.au/path nder
PROPERTY LOCATION:
7 McGuiness Street, Euroa. LAND SIZE: 690 sqm FOR SALE: EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST CLOSING 21/3/2025
AGENT CONTACT: Bec Gilliland | 0429 376 652 bec.gilliland@nutrien.com.au
Rural blokes, this one’s for you!
"Are You Bogged Mate?" is a down-to-earth mental health presentation designed specifically for country men. Delivered by Mary O’Brien, this event tackles the tough stuff—depression, mental health, and the challenges of rural life—with relatable advice and practical tools to get you back on track.
Learn how to recognise the signs of being "bogged," connect with local resources, and take steps to support yourself and your mates.
This event for men, provides a safe space for honest conversations and meaningful support.
Hosted by Strathbogie Shire Council as part of our commitment to building resilience and well-being in our community.
Don’t miss this powerful and life-changing event. Your mental health matters. Friday, 21 March 2025
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
The White Hart Hotel Longwood
Dinner provided
Please book for catering purposes http://tiny.cc/j1k9001 or call 1800
New data from Australia’s eSafety Commission has found children under the age of 15 are nding ways to evade new legislation banning them from social media, along with a sharp increase of chatbot use.
A report from the eSafety advisory hub warned that children are using AI-driven chatbots for ‘hours’ every day, giving them interactive access to unrestricted themes, including sex, drug-taking, self-harm, suicide, and eating disorders.
A second report found children aged 8-15 were easily circumventing inadequate and poorly enforced minimum age rules used by social media with most platforms only asking children to self-declare their age at sign-up.
The report combined the results of a national survey and information provided directly to eSafety by social media companies about how they enforce their own age restrictions.
The commission also warned that chatbots were exposing children to unmoderated conversations which may encourage or reinforce harmful thoughts and behaviours.
eSafety commissioner Julie Inman Grant said most AI-driven
chatbots were not designed with safety in mind and children were not developmentally ready for the risks.
“AI companions can share harmful content, distort reality and give advice that is dangerous,” Ms Inman Grant said.
“In addition, they are o en designed to encourage ongoing interaction, which can feel addictive and lead to overuse and even dependency.”
Ms Inman Grant also said data on underage social media use was not reliable.
The most popular platforms for children under 13 were YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram.
YouTube is the only platform that allows access to children under 13 when attached to a family account with parental supervision.
The eSafety report said responses received from the top eight services covered the rst half of 2024 and showed that starting an account was ‘relatively simple’, requiring only a self-declaration of age.
The report also showed mixed results in how some platforms were enforcing age limits through proactive tools and reporting systems to
NOT SO SAFE: Children aged 8-15 were easily circumventing inadequate and poorly enforced minimum age
detect underage children already using their services.
Ms Inman Grant said there was still work to be done by social me-
dia companies to enforce the government’s planned minimum age legislation which comes into e ect in December.
“Social media services not only need to make it harder for underage users to sign up to their services in the rst place, but also make sure that users who are old enough to be on the service, but are not yet adults, have strong safety measures in place by default,” she said.
“Few have any real stringent measures to determine age accurately at the point of sign-up so there’s nothing stopping a 14-yearold for instance entering a false age or date of birth and setting up an unrestricted adult account that doesn’t carry those extra safety features.
“And this likely means the platforms are unaware of the true numbers of users identi ed as children and teens on their services; as a result, the reported numbers likely underestimate the true numbers.
“This is likely also true in the very young cohort aged 13-15 which will be deemed too young to access some services when the government’s minimum age legislation comes into force.”
Snapchat reported having almost 440,000 users aged 13-15, Instagram had 350,000, Youtube 325,000, and TikTok 200,000.
TikTok, Twitch, Snapchat, and Youtube reported using tools proactively to detect users under 13, while other platforms had the technology but did not use it.
Some platforms had easy pathways for people to report underage users, while others made this process di cult.
Ms Inman Grant said big tech companies should now move on from the era of ‘moving fast and breaking things’.
“Especially when it comes to our children,” she said.
“The industry must embrace Safety by Design as an immediate priority to anticipate risks and ensure products are safe from the outset.”
“The digital world should be a place for exploration and connection, not exploitation.”
eSafety o ers support and advisories which can provide fast and expert help with emerging online risks.
Further information can be found at eSafety.gov.au
A PARLIAMENTARY petition calling on the state government to reduce the minimum probationary driver licence age was launched on Monday, 17 February.
Nationals member for northern Victoria Gaelle Broad said she had been contacted by many young people, parents, and grandparents who were keen to see the probationary driving age reduced from 18 to 17 years.
“I raised the issue in Parliament last year but was told the minister (Melissa Horne) had safety concerns with the idea,” Ms Broad said.
“As a parent of two P-platers and one L-plater, I agree
that safety is crucial and training is vitally important to ensure our young people are ready for the responsibility of driving solo.”
Ms Broad told Parliament on Monday that any road accident statistic was a bad one, regardless of age.
“But in Victoria right now you need to do more training to serve co ee than you do to drive on our roads,” she said.
“We require learner drivers to record 120 hours of driving in a logbook, but unless they have someone teaching them properly, at the end of it they may still not know how to park a car.”
Ms Broad urged the min-
ister to consider the driver training programs used in NSW, where a one-day safer driving course earns a driver 20 hours of credit on their logbooks.
Ten hours of professional driving lessons earns a further 20 hours of credit.
“I have been contacted by people across the state keen to see the law changed in Victoria, particularly in regional areas where there is limited or no public transport available, and not everyone has a parent or carer available to ferry them around.”
Ms Broad said some teenagers were avoiding the rules by using a NSW ad-
dress to get their licence.
“For young people who have done the hours of training and are ready to drive safely on their own, a driver licence opens doors to educational and employment opportunities, access to health services, to engage in community events and sports, and to help others.”
A parliamentary committee inquiry in 2017 recommended Victoria lower the age to 17.
The petition closes on April 30 and can be found at https://www.parliament. vic.gov.au/get-involved/petitions/reduce-probationarydriving-age/
Ms Broad is sponsoring the petition in the Legislative Council.
By CATIE HILL
EUROA Health in partnership with the Euroa Men’s Shed are pleased to have established an exciting new program to keep everyone a bit busier at GraniteHill Aged Care, and already it has been a wonderful way to reconnect old friends between the two groups.
This exciting program will see residents of GraniteHill engaging in meaningful, hands-on projects with the assistance of the Men’s Shed members at either Euroa Health or at their shed located at the Euroa Showgrounds.
At the rst get together on Tuesday last week, Men’s Shed members Chris Mutton
and Pat Murphy introduced themselves to new faces in the meeting before enjoying a cuppa with residents and discussing some ideas.
This opportunity saw a happy reunion of founding members of the shed who reminisced over the journey to what the Men’s Shed is today.
Shed president Pat Murphy said that he was pleased that this program was underway and his members have been positive about the impact and ideas that the program could make at GraniteHill.
He thanked Daniel and Fred from GraniteHill for their large contribution ensuring that the day ran well and for planning a program for everyone to get involved with.
By ANDY WILSON
EUROA residents are bucking the nationwide trend in selfcare by not letting the current cost-of-living crisis a ect their pharmaceutical buying habits.
A recent survey conducted by the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) showed 78 per cent of voters supported the government adding more medicine to the Pharmaceutical Bene ts Scheme or increasing subsidies. As a result of rising living costs, up to one in ve Australians have not lled a prescription in the past
three years in order to save money.
Despite the gure rising to one in three in parts of regional areas, it was a trend not happening locally.
Euroa’s Terry White pharmacist Mohammad Warsi said he saw very little evidence for people going without their medications.
“This research is nothing new,”
Mr Warsi said.
“It’s mainly general people without concessions; there are di erent levels of Medicare entitlements, especially those who are on the pension.
“The government is doing a lot
for them, but those not on a health care card or pension card, they are the main su erers.”
Pharmacy Guild of Australia national councillor Mario Barone said it was clear the government needed to take action to reduce the cost of medication.
“We know what happens when people can’t a ord to take their medicine – they get sicker,” Mr Barone said.
“The government can act now to make medicines more a ordable by reducing the PBS general copayment (to) reduce out-of-pocket
FEBRUARY COMMUNITY UPDATE - GOULBURN VALLEY PUBLIC
Stay Safe This Summer!
What is Japanese Encephalitis (JE) Virus?
JE is a serious mosquito-borne illness that poses a health risk across Victoria especially during the middle of the warmer months It can cause severe neurological symptoms and while rare it can be serious Protecting yourself from mosquito bites is the best way to reduce the risk of JE
prescription costs for patients.”
Research commissioned by the guild showed that women, people with dependents, and the young were more likely to skip a prescription.
Mr Warsi said he saw no comparable evidence anecdotally of locals not lling their scripts when they need to, compared to instances of some customers in capital cities taking only half their medication to save money.
“Not many, certainly not three or four a week, not as bad as elsewhere.”
NO COMPARABLE EVIDENCE: Local pharmacist Mohammad Warsi said he saw not much evidence of people not filling their medical scripts.
Protect sleeping areas with mosquito nets or screens to prevent bites while resting
Mpox is a health risk, and it’s important to stay informed and take precautions
Avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active
Here’s how to protect yourself and your family:
Use mosquito repellent containing picaridin or DEET on exposed skin
Wear long loose-fitting clothing to limit skin exposure to mosquitoes
Remove standing water around your home, as it provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes
Vaccination is an important way to protect against JE Vaccination is available free-of-charge for specific groups, including those living in high-risk LGAs in northern Victoria Check your eligibility on the www health vic gov au/infectious-diseases/japaneseencephalitis
Vaccines are available to eligible people through participating councils GPs and local pharmacies near you Please note that may be a consultation fee to administer the vaccine check with your chosen provider when you are booking More info can be found here, https://www gvhealth org au/publichealth-unit/japanese-encephalitis/
Symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and a rash can appear and anyone in close contact with an infected person is at risk Avoid sharing personal items like towels or clothes, practice good hygiene, and get vaccinated if eligible Mpox symptoms typically resolve within a few weeks, but in more severe cases, it can lead to complications requiring medical attention
Measles continues to be a concern in Victoria, with cases reported from overseas travellers It is highly infectious and can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and other health issues Monitor for symptoms if exposed, and visit www health vic gov au for exposure sites and vaccination details
For the latest updates, advice, or support, visit the Better Health website or contact the GV Public Health Unit at 1800 313 070 Protect yourself and others by staying informed and following health recommendations
WITH 2025 marking 30 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the worldwide commitment to achieving gender equality, Strathbogie Shire Council will host a special event in celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) on Friday, 7 March.
With signi cant progress in gender equality having been made since 1995, barriers remain which include the gender pay gap, workplace inequality, and the need for greater recognition of women’s contributions to society.
This year’s IWD global theme is #AccelerateAction.
Australia’s theme will be ‘March Forward’ and is a call to action for individuals, businesses, and communities to take bold steps towards lasting change.
Strathbogie Shire Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy said the event will provide an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women while highlighting the ongoing challenges they face.
“International Women’s Day is a time to acknowledge the incredible contributions of women in our community and beyond,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.
“Our event will bring people together to inspire action and create conversations that drive real change.”
The ‘Ladies Who Shoot
ALEXANDRENA Parker is a photographer and film director with 14 years experience working across Australia and internationally.
Ms Parker was born and raised in Shepparton and has lived with cystic fibrosis, facing significant health challenges while also advocating for lifesaving medication that transformed her health.
This breakthrough allowed her to become a mother to Ruby and build a life in Melbourne with her husband, Michael.
Her work is driven by a deep appreciation for human connection, storytelling, and capturing the beauty in everyday moments.
Their Lunch’ a ernoon tea will feature an exciting lineup of guest speakers.
Cr Ewart-Kennedy said she was ‘immensely proud’ to lead a council comprising four female and three male councillors, surpassing the state average. She said in the 2024 lo-
MEMBER for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland MP represents an electorate spanning 12,000 square kilometres.
She lives on a farm near Seymour with her husband and three children, including her fourmonth-old daughter, Sigrid.
As a new mother, she understands the challenges of balancing family and career, which inspired her to help establish a crèche at the Parliament of Victoria - creating opportunities for more young regional women to step into politics.
cal government elections women constituted just over 43% of elected councillors in Victoria, falling short of the state’s 50% target for 2025.
“Our council not only exceeds this average but also benefits from a workforce where women represent half of our employees,
aligning with the broader trend in Victorian local governments.
“We encourage everyone to join us in celebrating women’s achievements, learning from their experiences, and committing to actions that push us closer to true gender equality.”
Wednesday 5th March 2025 North East Store Sale Centre COMMENCING AT 9.00AM
TEGAN Clydesdale is a winemaker at Fowles Wines who has been shaping the company’s products since 2008.
Starting as a Lab Technician, she built a deep understanding of winemaking from the ground up. While raising her family, she balanced part-time work before returning full-time in 2016, beginning her Bachelor of Wine Science the following year, graduating in 2022.
Her dedication has seen her rise to assistant winemaker in 2020, and in 2023 she was promoted to winemaker, where she plays a vital role in crafting the company’s wines.
This event is funded by the Community Recovery Hub, which is jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Event Details:
Date: Friday, 7 March 2025 Time: 2–4pm
Venue: Fowles Wine | The Wine Shed, Lambing Gully Road, Avenel Transport will be available from Violet Town, Euroa and Nagambie – bookings are required as places are limited. For more information visit https://www.strathbogie.vic. gov.au/ or call 1800 065 993.
WEANERS
STRATHWEENEY, MARRAWEENEY
40 ANGUS M/S, 12 MTHS, KILCOOLIN & CLUDEN BLD, WEANED, VB, GF
30 ANGUS M/S, 7-8 MTHS, KILCOOLIN & CLUDEN BLD, WEANED, VB, GF
J D BRIAN, TONGALA
40 AUSTRALIS (ANGUS/SOUTH DEVON) HEIFERS, 9-11 MTHS, WEANED
GOORAM SPRINGS, GOORAM
20 ANGUS M/S, 7-8 MTHS, PRIME & MILLAH MURRAH BLD, WEANED, VB, GF
20 B/B M/S, 7-8 MTHS, RED HILL BLD, WEANED, VB, GF
GIBSON PARK, SHEANS CREEK ......................................................
30 CHAR X M/S, 8-9 MTHS, RANGAN BLD, WEANED, VB, GF
INVERLEIGH, INVERGORDON
25 ANG & ANG/SIMMI X STRS, 8 MTHS, MARGNI PARK & INVERLEIGH SIMMI BLD, WEANED, VB, GF
GLENFERN, TERIP .............................................................................
20 HEREFORD HEIFERS, 9-10 MTHS, WIRRUNA BLD, WEANED, GF
KITHBROOK ESTATE, MARRAWEENEY
15 ANGUS M/S, 10-11 MTHS, NEWBLAX BLD, WEANED, VB, GF
SUMMERLEA, EUROA
10 HEREFORD HEIFERS, 12 MTHS, WEANED, GF
MINYARA SPECKLE PARK, YARRA GLEN NUT
6 SPECKLE PARK STEERS, 7-8 MTHS, MINNAMURRA BLD, WEANED, VB, GF
GROWN CATTLE
LOCK-A-BAR, KATAMATITE ...............................................................
50 ANGUS M/S, 12-14 MTHS, ALPINE ANGUS BLD
MINYARA SPECKLE PARK, YARRA GLEN
6 SPECKLE PARK STEERS, 12-13 MTHS, MINNAMURRA BLD, WEANED, VB, GF
COWS & CALVES
C HARDING, MANSFIELD ..................................................................
12 ANGUS COWS WITH CAF, 2-3 MTHS, FERNHILL BLD
W BAUMANN, SEYMOUR
2 ANGUS HEIFERS WITH ANGUS CAF, NSM, VB
*CURFEW 3.30PM Tuesday*
www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/community/pets-and-livestock/euroa-saleyard
Further Entries Invited - Contact Selling Agents:
ANGLICAN CHURCH
Sunday 2nd March, Holy Eucharist
8am St Andrew’s Longwood
9.15am St Paul’s Euroa
Ash Wednesday 5th March
7pm St Paul’s Euroa
Enq: 0418 579 168 www.anglicaneuroa.org.au All Welcome
BAPTIST CHURCH
31 Kennedy Street, Euroa
Sunday March 2nd, 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 March 2nd
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 1st March 6pm Vigil Mass
St Attracta’s Church Violet Town
Sunday 2nd March Mass
8.30am St Patrick’s Longwood Sunday 2nd March Mass
Celebrating 150 Years
11am St John’s Euroa
Ash Wednesday March 5th Mass 8am and 12.30pm St John’s Euroa
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: Josh 0402 427 955
We are encouraging those in our congregation to lead and partake in leading worship because we do have a few gifted people in the congregation who are able to do that.
- CHURCH SECRETARY JUDI WARD
‘NO HILLSONG ON MY WATCH’
By ANDY WILSON
RURAL preachers and ministers are always hard to attract in almost any denomination of church in Australia.
Euroa’s St Andrew’s Church is being pragmatic with how it approaches this issue a er its minister of four years Pastor Scott Lesley celebrated his last service on Sunday before he moves away from Euroa into another role.
The congregation has decided to draw from its members to provide lay preaching to the community.
Church secretary Judi Ward said St Andrew’s would not be securing a minister for ‘quite a while’ but said the church had enough talented people to ll the void.
“A number of people will be lling in while we work out how to go forward without a minister,” Ms Ward said.
“We are encouraging those in our congregation to lead and partake in leading worship because we do have a few gi ed people in
BUSHFIRE survival plans should go one step further for tourist enterprises to ensure the safety of guests.
CFA’s Tourism Fire Safety Module is a course designed to help tourism operators understand their local risk, develop a comprehensive bush re plan, and choose how best to communicate with guests during an emergency.
CFA Chief O cer Jason Heffernan said tourism operators played a critical role in keeping visitors safe and that the module gives businesses the tools to act swi ly.
“This module equips businesses with the knowledge and condence to respond e ectively,” Mr He ernan said.
“Particularly in regional areas where re risks can escalate quickly...ensuring both sta and guests are well-prepared.”
the congregation who are able to do that.”
Greg Rowe is one of those people and he was bursting with enthusiasm as he prepared on Friday.
“This church has done something quite shocking and made this mad man to act as one of its lay preachers,” Mr Rowe said.
This Sunday he will commence in a role he is sharing with other members of the congregation by laying down his rst sermon – a word he prefers to not use.
“I like to call it ‘leading’.“
The build-up is not without its mirth; however, it can be dicult to know when this ‘plodder for God’ has his tongue rmly in his cheek.
“If folk are having trouble sleeping, they can come and hear me preach.
“I only talk for about seven or eight minutes anyway, because, let’s be honest, people don’t really want to concentrate much past that.”
Some might hope that particular claim is not in jest.
“On my watch, it’s going to be fun.
“I am welcoming of any hymns from the catalogue of Charles and John Wesley,” he said with a chuckle.
“There won’t be any Hillsong, but then me entering wearing traditional purple robes – there’ll be none of that, either – I’ll be standing out the front shaking hands to welcome everyone.”
Mr Rowe also wants people to come and talk themselves, to make the experience relevant.
“If they want to interrupt, then happy days.
“We gotta change things up a bit.”
St Andrew’s has a contrast in its operation, with its very progressive take on the world going hand-in-hand with traditional worship.
Ms Ward said the church was very inclusive.
“We are very welcoming of the LGBTQI+ community for exam-
ple and we celebrate conducting gay marriages, and we have had a gay pastor.
“However, our prayers and readings are very traditional.”
Mr Rowe’s theology is as ecumenical as it is robust.
“The church knows it will be a little di erent and all I am about is opening God’s word.”
Mr Rowe says he prefers preaching primarily from the four Gospels.
“Maybe a psalm is good enough,” he said.
“I am not keen on (the book of) Revelation and don’t get me started on Lamentations.”
Mr Rowe seems to have all bases covered, including the believable:
“When you enter, the doors automatically lock.
“You’re never going to get out again.”
On Sunday, 27 April the church will celebrate its 160th anniversary with a free community barbecue.
A Cape Otway resort was forced to evacuate eight guests and several sta in January when
a large re broke out near the isolated accommodation business in the middle of the night.
Resort owner Maxwell Vella said a neighbour had alerted him to the re.
“Within 15 minutes, the VicEmergency app sent an evacuation notice, and we got all our guests up and out,” Mr Vella said.
“Some didn’t answer their phones, so we had to knock on doors at 2am, but they all cooperated.”
Mr Vella later completed the CFA module and said it had provided him with additional insights on re ning evacuation procedures and how best to communicate with guests.
“I now ask all guests to leave their phones on overnight.
“Many turn them o while on holiday, but emergencies don’t wait for the morning.”
The CFA Tourism Module can be completed by searching ‘tourism business’ at www.cfa.vic.gov. au/
INDI MP Helen Haines has launched her policy for an ‘Electrify Everything Loan Scheme’ that would help homeowners lower the cost of running their home through home batteries, energy-e cient appliances, and solar storage solutions.
She has also committed to help small business reduce their energy and tax bills through a proposed $30,000 energy incentive for small business and primary producers.
The loan scheme for households would reduce the upfront nancial burden on consumers through interestfree loans for home electrication upgrades she said will drive down power bills.
“Energy bills are one of the biggest costs for both households and businesses – my plans would allow both households and small businesses make the upfront investments they need to be more energy-e cient and save money,” Dr Haines said.
“One in three Australian households have already made the switch to roo op solar, which is helping cut their power bills and emissions.
“But they could save even more if they had easier access to home batteries and e cient electric appliances, allowing them to store the excess energy they produce during the day to use at night, when prices are at their peak.”
cook top, heat pump and split-system air conditioning.
She is also proposing a Small Business and Primary Producer Energy Incentive that would enable all businesses to bene t from a $30,000 tax deduction for investment in assets or technology that improve energy e ciency.
Dr Haines said her policy would help small and medium enterprises invest in electri cation of their business or improvements to boost their energy e ciency. It would be open to businesses with turnover up to $50 million, and to all primary producers, acknowledging the importance of supporting farmers to make investments.
“Whether upgrading refrigeration, transport, or energy storage, my policy will support businesses to lower their energy costs and increase their productivity,” she said.
Dr Haines said her loan scheme would help bridge the a ordability gap for key technologies while the market catches up.
“Items like home batteries are too expensive for many
While many Australians are eager to embrace electri cation, the high upfront cost of technologies like home batteries, heat pumps, and induction cooktops are preventing people from transitioning to energy ecient appliances and keeping many household energy bills higher for longer.
Australians right now, but those who have invested in this technology have dramatically reduced their power bills,” she said.
“I want a program that will support people the access to invest in electrification technology while the market is catching up.”
Inland Rail’s construction partner
John Holland is undertaking works in Euroa to upgrade the detour route to support safe tra c movement, ahead of the Anderson Street bridge closure later this year.
Works will take place in several stages to minimise disruptions.
From Monday 3 March, utility relocation works on Campbell Street, upgrade works in Brock Street and upgrades to the Birkett Street level crossing commence.
The Birkett Street level crossing will be closed during Stage 1, with an over the railway detour via the Anderson Street bridge. Tra c management and reduced speeds will be in place.
Following Stage 1 works there will be additional stages that will require the temporary closure of the Birkett Street level crossing and road closures along sections of Brock and Birkett streets. During this time local detours, tra c management, and reduced speeds will be in place. Local access will be maintained.
Works to upgrade the level crossing and surrounding roads will include:
• Road widening, asphalting and line marking
• Drainage works
• Utility relocation and service protection works, where required
• Relocation and installation of street lighting, where required
Relocation of cables and signalling infrastructure
• Signage and barrier installations
• Minor footpath upgrades
Approved tree and vegetation removal.
Hours of works for Stage 1
• 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday
• 7am to 1pm, Saturdays
For enquiries phone 1800 732 761, email inlandrailvic@inlandrail.com.au or visit our shopfront at 46-50 Binney Street, Tuesdays between 10am and 2pm.
Scan to view latest works noti cations
Dr Haines’ policy proposes interest-free loans that would enable consumers to bundle multiple products into one loan for a simpler electri cation journey.
Common bundles may include a battery, induction
Dr Haines said the incentive would also enable farmers to claim a bonus deduction for on-farm e ciency technologies relating to soil health, carbon sequestration and alternative fuels.
“Successful electri cation can put money back in people’s pockets and make everyday life more a ordable, while also supporting Australia’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future.”
cricket clubs wanting to build on their inclusivity.
LOCAL cricket clubs are encouraged to apply for grants valued at up to more than $40,000 under the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund (ACIF) being offered in 2025.
Euro MP Annabelle Cleeland said the grants were now available and could be used to enhance club facilities and continue providing a welcoming space for players of all ages and backgrounds.
“Team sports like cricket bring people together, build friendships, and teach valuable life skills,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Additional funding makes it just a little bit easier for our local sporting and recreational clubs to operate, making sure more people are playing or assisting with the sport they love.”
The ACIF is funded by Cricket Victoria and Cricket Australia to support community cricket facility projects, with a focus on growing participation and promoting greater access for all Victorians.
Over 60 projects were funded in season 2023-24 and over $250 million of partnered investment with federal, state, and local governments has been generated since the ACIF’s inception in 2019.
The ACIF is open to all clubs, associations, schools, local government, and cricket facility managers, acknowledging the important role these partners play in providing and maintaining facilities for community cricket across Victoria.
The fund o ers minor
THE upskilling of sta and volunteers in regional sporting clubs will be the target of a new round of state government grants in 2025.
In an announcement on Thursday, the state government said that grassroots sports clubs ‘are the heartbeat’ of local communities.
Minister for community sport Ros Spence said applications were open for the Sporting Club Grants Program – with the focus on upskilling to help volunteers continue playing a vital role at their local clubs.
“We’re backing our grassroots sporting clubs on and o the eld,” Ms Spence said.
“So more people in their local
community can get involved and play a role.”
The grants are valued up to $5,000, along with other grants of up to $4,000 to help clubs deliver new programs to the community.
Clubs can also apply for funding up to $1,000 to purchase uniforms and equipment, and $750 for travel to compete in away games.
Avenel Football Netball Club president Joey Pollock said the club applied for funding support regularly and would ‘de nitely’ consider the new grants.
The popular local club is getting close to completing its new $60,000 scoreboard which Mr Pollock said was an example of how productive
funding can be along with in-kind help with labour.
“We go for everything, and we’re successful,” Mr Pollock said.
“For example, we are pretty hopeful that we will get the scoreboard up by about round three or four this season.”
Retired Euroa tennis coach Greg Rowe has used state funding in the past on both the Euroa and Strathbogie Tennis Clubs.
“What’s been really wonderful also is that members of the community really got behind the Strathbogie club and with grants at ve grand a pop, they were centred around volunteers,” Mr Rowe said.
“The money in the past has al-
ways gone towards upgrades and equipment for the children.”
The Sporting Club Grants Program has injected almost $18.4 million into the community since 2014 and has supported thousands of clubs across the state – improving the experience for everyone involved.
The program is backed by the Regional Community Sport Development Fund that is delivering infrastructure upgrades as well as the Regional Community Sport Infrastructure Fund.
Applications for this round close on Thursday, 27 March 2025.
For more information and to apply, visit sport.vic.gov.au
grants of $1000-$15,000 and major ones valued at $15,001-$40,000. Applications over $40,000 will be considered on a caseby-case basis under the Strategic Cricket Infrastructure Funding category. Projects under this category will generally be multifaceted and provide a broad regional bene t for cricket.
Local clubs can contact Ms Cleeland’s o ce to arrange a letter of support for their application on (03) 5762 1600 or email annabelle.cleeland@ parliament.vic.gov.au
Applications close on Sunday 23 March 2025.
Further information on the ACIF, including guidelines, can also be found at: https://www.cricketvictoria.com.au/clubs-support/ grants/
45-47
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ADAMS, Keith Cli on.
Formerly of Violet Town.
Sadly passed away on February 14, 2025 at the Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital. Aged 84 years.
Loving husband of Lorraine. Loved father of Rodney and Tania, father-in-law of Debbie. Adored Grandad of Mitchell, Keira and Brighton.
Life Member of the Violet Town Football Club.
A funeral service will be held TODAY at the Gregson and Weight Chapel at 11am.
A stream of the service will be available on the Gregson and Weight website.
“At peace”
Caloundra 5491 1559 www.gregsonweight.com.au
WILLIS, Marjorie. 4/4/1924 - 17/2/2025
Daughter of Harold and Violet Willis (both dec). Fiancee of Kenneth Hollaway (dec).
Dearly loved and special Aunt of Ann Whitford (dec), Sue Gall, Lyn Philp (dec), Leah Currie and Kenneth Comi.
Private Cremation
A special thank-you from Marjorie’s family to all the sta of Granite Hill Nursing Home, Euroa, for all their kind and wonderful care of Marjorie over the last 5 and a half years.
BENALLA (03) 5762 2461
Member AFDA
Servicing Euroa & District since 1937
Damien Feehan
Justin Feehan
2024 TOYOTA RAV 4 HYBRID GLX AWD. As new condition, bought 31/5/2024. Colour Glacier White, travelled 4620km, Extras include full exterior paint protect, full interior fabric protect, windows ttedwithdarkestlegal tint, oormats front and back, slimline plates CYF719.
$51000. Phone Anne, 0407 065 776.
AUDI A4 TDI for sale, local car, 2013 Model, 102,000kms only, pristine condition, 1,000 KLMs per tank on a long trip, rego (1AA8DW), $20,000 firm. Phone Jurgen 0438 500 888.
2022 Volvo XC 60. Registered BVC024 until Jan 2026. Warranty until Jan 2027. Travelled only 48500 Km. Price $45,000. Phone Tony 0409239326 RWC provided.
TOYOTA Hilux 2013, 169,000km, 5spd manual, 4x4, full service history, no o road, no accidents, black duck seat covers from new, new tyres, reg (1AL4YU), RWC, $32,000. Phone Allan 0400 541 599.
MAZDA 2023 CX3 auto hatch, reg CHC333, one owner, immaculate condition, service books, 11,875kms, RWC, $27,750. Phone Maxwell.K.Batey on 0419 547 308.
2013 Toyota Hilux, manual, 169,700km, next service 180,000km, Mongoose Multimedia player / reversing camera install 7/23, Black Duck seat covers, new oor mats, ARB canopy & Bullbar, two Outback storage draws & boxes insidecanopy,Hayman Reese ball and Pintle hook tow bars, never bush bashed, well maintained. Selling due to retirement.
1AS8UR $32,500 ONO. Phone 0403 926 144
MITSUBISHI ASX 2017, 90000km, registered until June 2025 1OJ4NB, $15000. PH 0402 118 361
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Elite, leather seats, services as per logbook. 4 cylinder 2.2lit Diesel, auto, 1WK 1KR,130,000kms, RWC, $26,350.00 ONO. Phone Maxwell K Batey 0419 547 308.
1998 Jayco Eagle 12 folding camper, excellent condition, queen size bed, provisions for 2-3 children comfortably, reg (R91716), $12,000. Ph 0490 780 438. Toyota Corolla Ascent Hatchback (TIZ667) May 15. 126,000km, manual, 17" alloy wheels, TRD upgrades, tinted windows, excellent condition $8000. Ph 0438 988 608. BRAND NEW BOAT PACKAGE Stacer 379 Proline boat, Bimini Boat
By DAN GODSMARK
EUROA Fire Brigade senior running team travelled to Bendigo to compete in the Greater Midlands Fire Brigade Championships against 14 other teams.
On Sunday, 16 February the team, represented by Brodie Asquith, Jayden Booth, Max Furlanetto, Tyson Thompson, Gerard Williams, and coach Billy Williams, competed in B section.
The team performed strongly with placings in four events while recording highly competitive times against A section sides in open events.
This was the rst competition the team has attended as a full squad this season, making their results even more impressive.
With a strong foundation now in place, the team is training hard as they turn their focus to the twilight demonstration in Echuca this week-
end, followed by the State Championships in Mooroopna at the end of March.
Event placing: Hose and ladder practice – Five competitors.
Fi h place – 31.15 seconds.
Competitors: M. Furlanetto, T. Thompson, B. Williams, B. Asquith, J. Booth.
B section – Striking one disc twice with removable back cap.
Equal second place with Bendigo – 19.61 seconds.
Competitors: M. Furlanetto, T. Thompson, G. Williams, B. Williams.
Champion fours – Open section.
Fi h place – 20.34 seconds.
Competitors: M. Furlanetto, T. Thompson, J. Booth, B. Asquith.
B section – Striking one disc twice. Fourth place – 16.44 seconds.
Competitors: M. Furlanetto, B. Asquith, G. Williams, B. Williams.
By CAROLINE KEENAN
IT would be an understatement to say the Euroa Tennis Club has enjoyed a successful season in the BDTA and the GMLTA.
All six Euroa sides are playing in nals this weekend, with four involved in the semi- nals of the GMLTA and two in the grand nals of the BDTA.
Both the Euroa Lawn sides progressed through the BDTA Divisions One and Two semi- nals on Saturday. In Division Two, David Vaughan’s
side defeated the all-conquering Swanpool to secure a grand nal clash with Avenel.
The side played its best tennis of the season, winning six of the nine sets, with the three losing sets being tie-breakers.
In Division One, an undermanned Euroa Lawn side (Rowena Ellis played as a man) had to pull out all stops to get on top of Terip Terip.
A couple of one-sided sets made the di erence, with Julie Brook emerging as the star player. She was the only member of
her side to claim all her sets.
The side will regain number one man Kevin Bott for this week’s grand nal against Strathbogie, which prevailed over Benalla Lawn Green to secure a grand nal berth.
Cross-town rivals Euroa Red and Green will play o for a spot in the grand nal of GM3 a er nishing rst and second on the ladder.
The sides are evenly matched, having each lost one match to the other during the season, so it promises to be an interesting contest.
While the result on the previous
day had no impact on the nals, Euroa Red enjoyed a narrow victory over KPOS Captains.
Euroa Red was three games up at the end of play, winning 57 to 54.
Euroa Green had a less successful day, going down to the Cobram Cobras, 45 to 66.
In GM2, Euroa Blue also faced challenges, marred by injury and the windy, hot conditions.
The side su ered its biggest loss of the season, going down by 17 games to Nathalia, 68 to 51.
The loss all but extinguished any
hope the side had of playing nals until an upset result saw Numurkah beat the Cobram Crocs by a single game, providing a reprieve. Euroa Blue subsequently nished fourth and will play Kyabram in the rst semi- nal.
In GM2 Open, Euroa White could not hold o ladder leader Stanhope, despite an impressive a ernoon of tennis from Bede Redfern, who won his singles and doubles sets. The side will need to beat KPOS Colonels on Saturday and then win again on Sunday to reach the grand nal.
By GREG BLATCHFORD
WEEK one of the nals has been completed, and it was big on and o the green, with three teams competing and the club hosting four nals, including the Division One blockbuster between Shepp Golf and Tallygaroopna.
In Midweek Pennant, Division Four won its way through to the Grand Final with a 12-shot victory over Shepp Park.
We got o to a strong start and managed to hold the lead, and even though the opposition nished strongly over the last few ends, we held on with two rinks nishing in front.
Division Four versus Shepp Park –70 to 58.
Doug Maconachie, Greg Blatchford, Mary Steen, and Dot Lomer 17-28.
Richard Noble, Don Steers, Beryl Harris, and Jan Sheargold 24-15.
Peter Naughton, Margaretha Cerini, Pauline Naylor, and Bu y McFarlane 29-15.
We will take on the winner of the Shepp Park versus Shepp Golf Preliminary Final in the Grand Final, which is scheduled for 4 March.
Both of our Weekend Pennant teams came up short in the Qualifying Finals, with Division Four going down to Alexandra by 10 shots and Division Six nishing just four shots behind Nagambie.
Division Six was right in the hunt until the end, whilst Division Four started slowly and, despite getting within seven shots on a couple of occasions, couldn’t make up the gap.
We congratulate Nagambie and Alexandra on their wins and turn our focus to trying to earn the right to have another crack at them.
Division Four versus Alexandra –75 to 85 and four points.
Jim Perry, Brian Bamford, Charmaine Reid, and Bu y McFarlane 14-26.
Doug Maconachie, Greg Blatchford, Max Gri ths, and Noel Moon 16-28.
Alex Grant, Jamie Greasley, Lance Carracher, and Anne Sutcli e 26-12.
Richard Noble, Lindsay Cocking, Kerrie Steers, and Margaretha Cerini 19-19.
Division Six versus Nagambie – 53 to 57.
Tim Scarlett, Ian South, Ray Day, and Rolly Simpson 22-14.
Ross Withers, Mark Jervies, Neville Harris, and Janneke Kruger 2120.
James Dunne, Marg Goode, Ken Drysdale, and Beth Alston 10-23.
By DAN GODSMARK
EUROA is gearing up for several riding events, and the Euroa Gym is excited to roll out a cycling challenge with “Spin to Win,” inviting riders of all levels to push their limits on road, mountain, or stationary bikes.
This ultimate cycling challenge not only encourages fitness but also raises awareness for a cause close to our hearts - the Robert Connor-Dawes Foundation.
This completely free challenge allows participants to ride on their preferred bikes, whether physical or stationary, throughout March.
It’s the perfect lead-up to two local events, the Euroa Criterium and Ride the Ranges, both taking place in March.
In the Preliminary Finals, Division Four comes up against Shepp Park at Shepp Golf, whilst Division Six faces Violet Town at Hill Top.
Players are reminded that nals venues and playing conditions are determined by the Goulburn Valley Bowls Division, which controls the greens on the day.
Unlike home-and-away matches, starting times and the requirement to play straight through are locked in and cannot be altered by agreement between participating clubs on the day.
We are holding a training session for all Divisions Four and Six players at 10am on Tuesday - uniform required - and all bowlers are welcome to attend.
The long-awaited Men’s Pairs Final between Ken Sutcli e/Bill Taylor and Tony Kingma/Marc Stevens will also be on, so it will be another big day at the club.
A big thank you is extended to those who came along and supported club mates, as well as those who worked hard to ensure our greens, facilities, and hospitality were A1 for the games we hosted.
Such things are only possible because of the hard work and dedication of many.
It is the nal round of Rodwell’s Business House Bowls this Wednesday, and whilst things are tight at the top with a few teams in a position to claim the prize, we need to remember it is not all about winning.
It is a great night out and provides an opportunity for many people who otherwise wouldn’t, to have a bowl.
Other Club Championship matches are continuing, and we hope to announce the date for the rescheduled Armageddon Challenge shortly.
The club will be holding a Footy Tipping Competition again this year, and if you want to enter, log on to the AFL Tipping site (tipping.a .com. au) and search for our competition HWDUWSLR.
The nal two Ni y 50 winners were Bill Jennings and Judy Jennings.
All the best and bowl well.
By KATE DONOVAN
MIDWEEK PENNANT – Division Three.
AVENEL played Nagambie in the semi- nal at East Shepparton.
Despite two winning rinks, Avenel lost the match 47 to 53.
Another chance at nals awaits at Shepparton Park when Avenel plays Mooroopna Golf in the Preliminary Final.
James Wall, Kate Donovan, Geo Hateley, and Spud Furletti (s) led for all but the rst four ends.
Four was the biggest margin for the entire game, with three shots up securing the win for Avenel, 17 to 14.
Pam Pedder, Grace Kenworthy, Glen Bell, and Dennis McGregor (s) won by two shots a er another hotly contested game, with the scores even six times over the twenty-one ends, including the second last end. Avenel held their nerve to score two on the last end for the win, 16 to 14.
Jenny Furletti, Graham Lewis, Fay Hateley, and Noel Slater (s) were in chase mode all game.
Despite their e orts, Nagambie was too good, winning by eleven shots, 25 to 14.
MIDWEEK PENNANT – Division Six
With Avenel nishing the homeand-away season in fourth place, a win was paramount to stay alive in the nals race.
Mission accomplished with a 37 to 34 win against Nagambie; they now face Colbinabbin in the Preliminary Finals to be played at Shepparton Park.
Moiann Papageorgiou, Ron Harrison, Nyoli Bell, and Rusty Schwab (s) had a ve scored against them on the eleventh end, making the de cit eight shots.
In a determined ght back, they won seven out of the next ten ends to claim a hard-fought victory, 19 to 16.
Mark Morse, Marion Gittus, Marg Harrison, and Bill O’Connor (s) had a thrilling game with many lead changes.
When two evenly matched teams are pitted against each other, it’s probably karma that they can’t be separated, ending in an 18-all draw.
WEEKEND PENNANT – Division Three
That’s a wrap for Avenel for season 2024/25 as they lost to Shepparton Golf in the Elimination Final played at Tatura Hill Top, 71 to 92.
Dennis McGregor, Grace Kenworthy, Glen Bell, and Brett McDonald (s) led early in the game but lost the lead a er Shepparton Golf scored eight over three ends.
Avenel immediately answered back, winning the next ve ends and regaining the lead.
A six-shot win for Avenel was reward for e ort, 23 to 17.
James Wall, Kate Donovan, Geo Hateley, and Spud Furletti (s) lost the rst two ends but won the lead on the third end with a four.
Maintaining the lead for the rest of the game saw them come away with a narrow two-shot win, 20 to 18.
Pam Pedder, Donna Rowley, Josh
McDonald, and Jake Wall (s) were competitive in the rst half, being only two shots down on end ten.
Shepparton Golf team found their stride, winning all but two of the remaining ends and secured a comprehensive win, 29 to 15.
The same applied to the next rink of Howard Geldard, Graham Lewis, Fay Hateley, and Noel Slater (s), who started competitively but fell away as Shepparton Golf took control of the game, resulting in a 28 to 13 loss.
LEANNE RUSSELL-JONES
WEEKEND PENNANT Division Six.
The team is enjoying nals action, travelling to East Shepparton to play against Dookie on Saturday, achieving a good win of 14-2, 72-48.
We had slipped back to third on the ladder a er su ering a big loss at Shepparton Park in the last game.
Good luck to the team when they meet Euroa at Hilltop this Saturday.
Midweek Pennant Division Five.
A er a slow start, we had a great win over Euroa at Euroa on Tuesday, 11 February.
However, we were pipped at the post for nals this year, with third and fourth on the ladder nishing with good wins as well, leaving us in h.
We ran a successful Twilight tournament on Sunday, 24 February.
Many thanks to those who contributed to making it a great night.
It was hot and humid at 5pm when we started, so the air-conditioned rooms were very popular at tea time.
The night was won by Jean Sprague’s team from Rushworth, and the runners-up were Marg McNamara’s team from Shepparton Park.
An enjoyable meal was had by the players, and the supper was great.
I would like to thank the Violet Town Community Op Shop for their donation towards our prize money.
Our second night of Jack Attack saw a brief deluge come down before we could get the second half of our evening underway.
However, the ra es had been drawn, and one game of ve ends was completed, so all was good.
Last Thursday was extremely warm again, and we had a terri c third night.
Our ra e prize donors continue to be very generous, with several prizes every week, so come along and join in the fun of the night.
You might even get drawn into a team.
Riders can track their workouts using the popular fitness app Strava.
Additionally, the Euroa Gym will host a special weekend event, allowing riders to challenge themselves with distances of 25km, 50km, or 100km in one go.
Challenge Details: Challenge Dates: March 1March 31.
Where: Anywhere – Road, Trail, or Indoors.
How to Join:
Download the Strava app, find Daniel Godsmark, and follow him.
Once connected, we will add you to the “Spin to Win” challenge.
Record your rides using the Strava app on your chosen bike (road, mountain, or stationary).
For every 10km completed, you’ll earn an entry into the draw for the grand prizethere will be additional prizes up for grabs.
Best of all, joining this challenge is absolutely free, and you don’t need to be a member of the Euroa Gym to participate.
We encourage you to share this challenge with friends and rally their support as we aim to raise funds for the RCD Foundation.
The RCD Foundation is committed to funding research and supporting initiatives that improve outcomes for children diagnosed with brain cancer. By raising awareness and funds, the foundation works towards better treatment options and ultimately finding a cure. The Euroa Gym proudly supports this important cause through three years of fundraising activities like the Connors Erg Challenge.
For more details, feel free to personal message us on Instagram or contact the Euroa Gym through Facebook.
We are also seeking local businesses to sponsor prizes, making the grand finale as exciting as the challenge itself.
Mark your calendars for the weekend of March 29 and 30, when we’ll hold a spin challenge day.
Get involved, ride for a cause, and let’s make March a month to remember.
By JACK WILSON A GRADE
EUROA A Grade travelled to Vibert Reserve to play Karramomus in day one of the last game in the Haisman Shield two-day competition.
Euroa lost the toss, with Karramomus making Euroa take the eld.
Euroa were made to toil for the whole day against Karramomus, who scored a massive 7-388 from their 80 overs.
Sham Dadallage dazzled with four wickets, Nic Hill snagged two, and Vaughan Kirk chipped in with one as Karramomus ended the day at 7-388.
Euroa’s bowlers worked tirelessly, persistently searching for breakthroughs in a day that tested their stamina and resolve.
Despite the arduous task, the team’s spirit remained unbroken as they strategised for the next innings, looking to counter Karramomus’ formidable total with a determined batting performance.
SCORECARD: Karramomus 7-388 (S. Dadallege 4-171, N. Hill 2-79).
B GRADE EUROA B Grade took on
CLEAN BOWLED: Tim Swi loses his bails as he plays a loose shot.
Karramomus at the Friendlies in the last round of the B Grade competition. Karramomus won the toss and sent Euroa in to bat.
Euroa made a rocky start to the game and continued to struggle throughout the innings.
Ethan Saxon top-scored
with 27, followed by Paul Allen, Leo Murphy, Ryan Hill, and Tim Swi , who were the other batters to reach double gures.
Despite their e orts, Euroa was bowled out for a modest total of 141.
In reply, Karramomus began their innings with condence, but Jack Walters gave Euroa a spark of hope by taking a wicket with the very rst ball of the innings.
However, Karramomus’ batters soon found their groove and easily chased down the target.
They not only reached Euroa’s total but continued to pile on the runs, ending the day at stumps with an impressive score of 3-171.
Ryan Hill supported Euroa’s bowling attack by nabbing two wickets, but the combined e orts could not stem the run ow from the opposition.
SCORECARD: Euroa 141 (E. Saxon 27, P. Allen 24) vs Karramomus 3-171 (R. Hill 2-36, J. Walters 1-26).
E GRADE
EUROA E Grade travelled to Bunbartha to face Northerners in the second-last round of the E Grade competition.
Euroa won the toss, with captain Connor McCombe electing to bat rst.
Euroa made a blazing start to the match, with Dave
Gleeson and Phil Thompson pushing their opening partnership past 60 before Thompson was bowled out.
Dave followed soon a er, scoring a classy 56. Luke Gilliland then stormed onto the scene, smashing 52 o just 42 balls, complete with three massive sixes.
Towards the end, Euroa had a bit of a hiccup, losing 5-7, but Jack Wilson and Billy O’Brien held their ground, both nishing not out.
With 182 runs to defend, Euroa started with a bang as captain Connor McCombe took a wicket in the very rst over.
The excitement continued when Dave Gleeson grabbed two wickets in the 10th.
However, that turned out to be Euroa’s last hurrah, as Northerners turned the game on its head, chasing down the total in the 27th over with ease.
Euroa travels to Waaia next week in the last round of the season.
First ball at 12.30pm.
SCORECARD: Euroa 9-181 (D. Gleeson 56, L. Gilliland 52) lost to Northerners 3-182 (D. Gleeson 2-51, C. McCombe 1-38).
EUROA GOLF CLUB
By RICHARD JOHNSON
LIFE member and club
stalwart Keith Seeber shot the round of the week to win the Wednesday Par event with a score of plus six from his handicap of 14.
Keith shot under his age with 80 o the stick and was rewarded with the swindle payout.
Daylight was next, with Bernie Shallard and Neal Healey each at plus one, while Greg Roberts visiting from Strathbogie was square for the day.
Burtons IGA were sponsors for this week’s events.
The Friday Twilight ShootOut event is taking shape, with only a couple of rounds remaining.
Thirty-four players took part and Charlie Watson’s 22 points just pipped his dad, Scott.
In addition to seven points for the win, Charlie collected a lucrative swindle payout.
Ray Farmer had another good Twilight score of 20 to secure a spot in the shoot-out nal.
Keith Seeber and Pete McMahon also scored 20. It is very tight at the top of the leaderboard in the Keith Seeber Twilight event, with just four points between rst and tenth place.
Paul Jones had a shocker in the Friday Twilight but turned it around spectacularly with 41 Stableford points to win the Saturday event in a reduced eld of 26 players. Balls down the line went to Nick Murray, Neal Healey, Brendan Redfern, and Matt Mills.
The Twilight junior event gets underway this week.
Next Saturday is another Stableford event, followed by a working bee, BBQ, and golf on Sunday to prepare the course for the annual Autumn Tournament over the long weekend in March.
Saturday features a twoperson Ambrose, Sunday will have a four-ball event, and Monday will be mixed.
NAGAMBIE GOLF CLUB
By DAVID LOVE
A BIG weekend of golf at Nagambie included a fourperson Ambrose held on Friday evening, followed by the much sought-a er WaterBoy Cup played on Sunday.
Both events had excellent attendance, with perfect late summer weather complementing all the fun.
The Costa Mushrooms four-person Ambrose had 52 players teeing o on Friday, where the winning quartet of Andrew Biggs, Michael Mensfeld, Michael Sloan, and Steve Webster produced a scintillating score of 325.18-26.82.
Well done, boys.
Sunday featured an eager eld of golfers ready to contest for what some have been saying are the year’s best prizes.
Thirty- ve competitors got underway in pleasant conditions, with cloud cover keeping the temperature down and a strong breeze making scoring tough.
A two-way tie at the top saw the day’s winner, Shaun Spicer, getting the nod by way of count back.
Thirty-seven Stableford points was enough to snare the coveted WaterBoy Cup, with Spicer’s wayward driver behaving on the day and solid golf played from start to n-
ish. The unlucky runner-up was David Love, who played his best golf on the front nine but did not do enough on the easier-to-score back nine; good chipping and putting were key to his round.
Third place went to the everconsistent Tim Baldwin, who carded a distant 34 points.
Many thanks go to our sponsors across the weekend, Lindsay Hall, and a big shout out to his team who do a great job irrigating throughout the summer.
Thanks goes out to longtime sponsors Costa Mushrooms, who have been around for many years.
Next week’s golf will be a monthly medal, with D. Love on o ce duty and B. Leviston in the bar.
STRATHBOGIE GOLF CLUB
By KRISTEN MOORE
WE started the day by wishing one of our members, Phil Fry, a happy 60th birthday.
We are still playing under very dry conditions, and the run is quite extreme.
The winner of the men’s competition was Peter Smith with a red-hot score of 44 points.
The winner of the ladies’ competition was Gayle Raery with 38 points.
Lineballs were won by Allan Rowarth with 38 points, Greg Roberts with 38 points, and Rebecca Newham, Carmel Lineham, Nathan Macauley, and Luke Winnell all with 37 points.
Nearest the pins on the 15th was Grant Pearce, and on the 17th, it was Greg Roberts.
The ladies’ drive and pitch was won by Kerry Hewlett, while the straightest drive was won by Carmel Lineham.
Next week is the Monthly Medal and a stroke round.
Kerry Hewlett is on duty.
Last week’s results: The winner of the day was Arch Bayles with a great score of 42 points.
Lineballs were won by Kevin Chenhall with 41 points, Phil Fry with 39 points, John Moore with 39, and Ryley McDonald with 37.
Nearest the pin winners were on the eighth, Ryley McDonald; on the 15th, Martyn Isherwood; and on the 17th, John Moore.
The men’s drive and pitch was won by Jack McDonald, and the ladies’ drive and pitch was won by Kerry Hewlett.
The straightest drive was won by Barney Robertson.
We farewelled Martyn Isherwood this week.
It was lovely having him be a part of our gol ng community while he was here on holiday from England.
EUROA LADIES CLUB
By DEBRA COX
WEDNESDAY was a Stableford round with nine players for 18 holes and four playing nine holes.
The weather was kind, and the course was in top condition with lots of run.
It is a real pleasure to play.
If you are thinking about having a hit, now is the time to get out there.
The winner of Division 1/2 was Deb Cox (it has been
a while since I wrote that name) with 37 points, marking a rare lucky day for me.
Lorraine Ellis scored a ball down the line with 35 points. Kae Lummas took out the nine-hole competition with 19 points.
Nearest the Pins: Eighth: Erica Mercer. 12th: Judy McLean 18th: Robin Lied Drive and Pitch: Fi h: Robin Lied. 15th: Deb Cox.
On Saturday, February 15 we held the Par round and the nal round of the Summer Cup with eighteen women playing.
The weather in the a ernoon was cool, showery, and very windy, challenging conditions no doubt impacted the scoring, with just several women coming in on the plus side.
Most of the eld were in the negative range.
The winner was Robyn Anthony with an impressive plus four, followed by Mandy Edwards, who clearly is back in form with a plus three.
Judy McLean nished with plus one and Michelle Thomson came in square.
Well done to all those ladies.
This has made it tricky to predict the winner of the Summer Cup.
We are indebted to our Captain Sarah Bullen who will review all three rounds to determine a clear winner, which will be announced at Presentation Night later this year.
Nearest the Pins: Eighth: Deb Cox. 12th: Freda Edwards. 18th: Dee McMartin. Drive and Pitch: Fi h: Robin Lied. 15th: Gail Allen. Next Wednesday is Par, and Saturday will be Stableford.
By DAN GODSMARK
THE Euroa Senior Football Club is set for an action-packed preseason, hosting three key practice matches at Memorial Oval throughout March.
The rst game kicks o on Saturday, March 1, with Euroa taking on Edithvale Aspendale FC.
The day begins with a six-quarter football match between the thirds/ reserves and Edithvale Aspendale at 11am.
Following that, the seniors will take the eld for a four-quarter match at 2pm.
Additionally, there will be netball matches throughout the day, including a 17-under match against Mans eld at 10am, a six-quarter intraclub match for B Res/B/A grade at 11am, and a 15-under match against Mans eld at 11:15am.
Following the rst practice match, Euroa will face Old Paradians FC on Saturday, March 15. Reserves match kicking o at 11am and the Seniors playing at 1pm.
The nal hit-out before the o cial season begins against Kyabram will be against North Heidelberg FC on Saturday, 22 March.
It will feature an Under 18/19 match at 10am, the Reserves at noon, and the Seniors at 2pm.
In addition to the football events, netball is on track for another successful year, building on the club’s recent achievements, including two premierships.
The focus for football recruiting this season has been on bringing Euroa boys back home, with players like Tom Burke, Bryce Frost, Jarmyn Tremellen, Nic Asquith, and Brodie Asquith returning to play for Euroa.
For more updates, check out the club’s Facebook page, where there has been extensive promotion of players recommitting or returning for the 2025 season.
For inquiries regarding football and netball, please contact the senior coaches: Dave Gleeson - 0411 187 811.
Ellie Warnock - 0448 218 085.
Page 17
WHAT a way to tip o the season.
Round one and two of our GMCU domestic competition was a massive success, with great energy, competitive games, and plenty of highlights across all age groups.
It is fantastic to see our players hitting the court, improving their skills, and having fun.
A big thank you to our referees, coaches, volunteers, and supporters for making the night run smoothly.
Let’s keep the momentum going.
A huge thank you to our major sponsor for the domestic competition: GMCU Euroa.
How good do our new domestic singlets look aswell.
Round one Results – Tuesday, February 11.
Hornets 22 defeated Spurs 12 (Hornets won by 10 points)
Celtics 45 defeated Bulls 19 (Celtics won by 26 points)
Mavericks 19 defeated Lakers 14 (Mavericks won by ve points)
Round 2 Results – Tuesday, February 18.
Celtics 29 defeated Hornets 10 (Celtics won by 19 points)
Lakers 18 defeated Spurs 15 (Lakers won by three points)
Mavericks 26 defeated Bulls 6 (Mavericks won by 20 points)
A huge congratulations to Dex Mawson, our Lindsay Park Racing Player of the Week.
Dex took home a $10 Intersport voucher for his outstanding leadership and patience on the court, ensuring that less con dent teammates had their chance to take a shot or two. Your sportsmanship and team- rst attitude are what make our competition so special. Well done, Dex.
A big thank you to Lindsay Park
Racing for their continued support as our weekly award sponsor.
Euroa Basketball AGM – Urgent Call for New Committee Members.
Date: Monday, March 17. Time: 7 pm.
Location: Euroa Secondary College. Over the past 13 months, Euroa Basketball Association has been driven by a small but dedicated team of just four committee members.
In that time, we have seen incredible growth, opportunities for our athletes, and a stronger basketball community in Strathbogie Shire.
However, as we approach this AGM, all positions will be declared vacant, and our current committee is stepping away from board roles.
This means that if no one steps up, Euroa Basketball will cease to exist.
No committee = no club = no basketball.
We know stepping into a leader-
ship role can feel daunting, but we won’t leave you in the deep end.
The outgoing committee is committed to a smooth handover, o ering full guidance and support as the new team settles in we will help you.
Walk you through the ins and outs of running the club.
Assist with the transition period to ensure continuity.
Be available for advice when needed throughout the year.
Basketball in Euroa has come too far to stop now.
If you love the game, if your kids play, or if you simply want to see the sport continue in our region - this is the time to step up.
We urge parents, players, and community members to attend the AGM and consider taking on a role.
This isn’t just about committee positions; it is about keeping basketball alive in Euroa.