EG260325SamReiher

Incorporating the Nagambie Times and Violet Town Sentinel

AVENEL - EUROA - LONGWOOD - NAGAMBIE - STRATHBOGIE - VIOLET TOWN Wednesday, March 26, 2025

editor@euroa-gazette.com.au

$2.00 inc GST

euroagazette.com.au

Wattle-in-arms at Euroa

Burnoffs coming to a forest near you PAGE 3

CFA at the state championships

PAGE 12

PAGE 20

Government should support community stores: ACCC Watchdog reins in the ‘ColesWorth’ duo on pricing, transparency

A HUNDRED REASONS TO SMILE

THE long-awaited report into supermarket reforms from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has highlighted the importance of community and remote supermarkets.

The Supermarkets Inquiry Final Report was released by the Federal government on Friday after the ACCC conducted a 12-month inquiry into Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi supermarkets.

The ACCC supplied the report to Treasury on Friday, 28 February.

Of the 20 recommendations given by the consumer watchdog, a highlight was the need for supporting community-owned stores in ‘limited choice’ areas with necessary governance measures.

The inquiry found that ALDI, Coles, and Woolworths were some of the most profitable supermarket businesses among global peers and their average product margins had increased over the past five financial years.

The report said Australians’ wages had not kept pace with grocery inflation since 2021, with prices increasing at more than twice the rate of wage

TED Baghel had the time of his life not only celebrating his one hundredth birthday with family and friends at Fowles Wine, but also in the very making of that century of adventure and love, which included when he was behind the wheel of a fast car...or two.  Story page 2 PHOTO: Andy Wilson

Your Local Real Estate Specialists

growth by the start of 2023 and that, despite that growth having since slowed, prices remained substantially higher relative to wages compared to the pre-2022 period.

The ACCC said the ‘ColesWorth’ domination of the sector was ‘not working well’ and was leading to poorer outcomes for consumers and suppliers than would be expected in a more competitive market.

The recommendations also include clearer pricing practices, greater transparency for suppliers, and reforms to planning and zoning laws, which aim to improve competition and give suppliers fairer bargaining conditions.

ACCC deputy chair Mick Keogh said the range of measures to improve competition had come from extensive analysis of the over 100 public submissions to the inquiry and 20,000 consumer survey responses.

“The ACCC (also) held eight supplier roundtables, reviewed tens of thousands of internal documents, conducted private hearings and ten days of public hearings, and analysed billions of points of supermarket data,” Mr Keogh said.

■ Continued page 8

(03) 5795 2535 | www.nutrienharcourts.com.au | 13 Binney Street, Euroa

NEW LISTING

1216 Euroa-Strathbogie Road | Kelvin View $500,000 - $550,000 3 1 1.40 Acres / 5640 m2 Bec Gilliland | 0429 376 652

258 High Street | Violet Town

$440,000 - $475,000 3 2 3 1 Acre / 4046 m2 Bec Gilliland | 0429 376 652

34-36 Tarcombe Street | Euroa $590,000 3 2 3 1350 m2 Bec Gilliland | 0429 376 652

Page 2 - THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025

euroagazette.com.au

Three loves fill Ted’s life

By ANDY WILSON

CELEBRATION OF A LIFE TIME: TED BAGHEL CELEBRATES HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY WITH ALEXANDER RALTON, SUZANNE VELK, SON JOHN BAGHEL, DREW GREGORY, KE KE RALTON AND JOHN STRINGER. PHOTO: ANDY WILSON

T

ED Baghel is a centenarian with a cheerful trove of memories that he rolls out with a clarity as if they happened yesterday.

For Ted, it seems that they did just that and on Friday, 28 February he celebrated his 100th birthday luncheon at Fowles Wine with close friends and his son John.

A sharp man and quick off the mark, Ted has much to say about the three loves he has had in the world.

One of those loves – over the course of an afternoon spent with him at Euroa’s Granite Hill – sounds worryingly like an addiction when he confesses to being on first-name terms with his ‘dealer’.

A Mercedes Benz dealer that is, but an addiction all the same with Ted having long lost count of how many Mercedes Benz cars he has owned.

“There’s only been ten or fifteen,” Ted said.

“But I quit driving about three months ago, and I sold my car, because it was too much temptation for me to drive.”

After a life-long affection for cars, Ted is pragmatic about the need for him to stop driving and now enjoys just talking about them, the conversation too filled with passion for any hint of melancholy to find its way in.

His all-time favourite Merc he names in a heartbeat.

“I can tell you that, without hesitation – the C200K. “Now, if you’re not an enthusiast [this correspondent is], you wouldn’t know what that was [this correspondent drives one], but it was the only supercharged, not turbo, that Mercedes made [correspondent in slight error].

“And it was a smallish car.”

The story behind another purchase leaves any doubt about this gentleman’s Mercbent in its dust, when he tells of his disappointment when his latter-day partner refused to go on a motorhome holiday with him around Australia.

“She said ‘well, I’m not coming on the trip’, and I thought, ‘well, stuff you’.”

Ted met again with his dealer to salve his habit.

“For years if I was feeling a bit depressed, I’d go and buy a new one.”

He journeyed around Australia on his own in a new Mercedes and stayed in motels.

A smile and chuckle are never held back as this man’s life story unfolds.

“It might be my son’s inheritance money, but it’s also my weakness.”

Ted’s automobile adventures also saw him racing Bugatti cars in his post-war years and becoming long-time friends with the late Grand Prix

LEAVE THIS TO ME, I’LL DO THE TALKING: A chance encounter in an office that started with a smile began Ted’s love story with his future wife June Bergen. driving ace Reg Hunt.

His wheels are now attached to what he refers to as a ‘go kart’ which is yet to join him at Granite Hill and which unfortunately has no reliable German suspension.

“I got the best one that I could, and I reckon I’ve got to look at my teeth when I get back from driving it to see if any of my fillings have come out,” he said.

“Well, I thought it was the best suspension I could see in any of them.”

Pre-war is when Ted’s first link with Euroa was nurtured when, as a child on a trip with his parents at a time when family outings required school uniform, he left his school hat at Mrs Rose’s Tea House in Clifton Street.

“Mrs Rose read the name my mother had put inside the hat with an address, and she posted it back.

“And that was my first contact with Euroa.”

His second trip was more adventurous.

“A long time later, there was a group of us in an accountancy and dental network – you’re either in dentistry or accountancy – and we used to go in the winter for a weekend at

MOUNTAIN MEN BEHIND THE WHEEL: Ted (at right) shared the driving of a Bugatti with J. D. Lynch to come second in their class in a mountain trial in 1950.

Marraweeney,” he said.

“And we had a weekend of getting drunk and performing all ridiculous things.

“Then in the summer, one of them had a fairly large cruiser on Lake Eildon, and we’d go there and water ski.

“Then we all got drunk again.

“And that’s how I found Euroa, really, for the second time.”

Several moves back and forth to Melbourne over the years finally saw him settle on the town.

The story shuffles back to 1939 when, at the outbreak of war, some ill-luck proved providential for the 18-yearold army recruit, as a bout of dengue fever steered his path from the frontline to elsewhere.

“I did my infantry training at Cowra in New South Wales, then I did my jungle training.

“I was waiting in the transit camp (to go) and I got bitten by a mosquito.”

Ted said he spent so long in hospital that on discharge he learned that his unit had gone to war without him.

“I don’t know why, but it must have really upset me – my mates had all gone, all

those fellows I trained with.

“I never saw any of them again.”

A transition to making prosthetics for soldiers with severe face injuries saw out the war for Ted before he became a dental technician.

“At the end of the war I worked at the Facial Auxiliary and Plastic Dental, as it was called, and we made noses, ears, eyes and any part of the face that had been damaged.”

His second love – and deepest – soon followed when he and enlistmentbuddy Sam ventured to Sydney by car at war’s end and needed to book accommodation with a travel agency.

A chance encounter in an office that started with a smile plunged Ted headlong into a love story that began with determination after first laying eyes on June Bergen.

“I saw this woman on the counter, and I said to Sam, ‘Have a look at the doll down the end’. “ ‘Leave this to me Sam, I’ll do the talking’; so, we went straight to her.

“I can remember she walked past me, and she

NEVER SAW ANY OF THEM AGAIN: Ted’s bout with dengue fever made sure he never reached the jungle frontlines with his mates.

had on a tweed suit, and I looked, and that figure!”

The day he returned from Sydney, a smitten and determined Ted made a beeline back to the travel agency and wasn’t perturbed by learning June was not there.

Given her home address (“you could ask for that back then”), he pursued June until he bounced her boyfriend (“that didn’t deter me of course”), having already started the love story by asking her to lunch, to say thanks for making the holiday booking.

“That was my excuse anyway.”

They married in 1949.

“I had a wonderful marriage – I absolutely idolised my wife,” “That’s her over there.”

He nods to a framed picture of a blonde woman of striking beauty.

“She was gorgeous, and she was also smart.”

Of the many pauses in hearing Ted’s story, this was the longest.

June Baghel proved to be a groundbreaker in local politics by becoming the second woman elected to the Waverley City Council

in 1968 and its first female mayor in 1972.

She also had an impact on Ted’s family in a positive way after some envious rivalry within the clan which had much to do with her beauty and her smarts than her character.

The details of one incident can remain sketchy in publishing, but enough needs re-telling as it stirred in Ted his most moving words about love.

When it seemed newborn son John was not going to have a chance to be held

by Ted’s ailing paternal grandmother due to some familial over-bearing, June stepped into the breach as would any hero while the aged matriarch stood with arms stretched out to nurse the baby, and handed John to her.

“It upsets me now when I think of it,” Ted marries the depths of melancholy and of love with tears.

“The poor old lady looked at baby John and she said something I never forgot.

He catches a moment.

“They breathe their own love,” he said.

“Breathe - they breathe their own love.”

THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025 - Page 3

euroagazette.com.au

Strathbogie crime spike ‘disturbing’

By ANDY WILSON RECENTLY released crime statistics have shown a sharp rise in criminal activity across Strathbogie Shire during 2024 compared to previous years.

Data from the Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) for the year ending in December has shown disturbing increases in local crime.

According to CSA, the number of recorded criminal incidents in the shire during that period rose from 529 to 781, an increase of 47.6 per cent across 12 months.

Those figures equate to 6,730 offences per 100,000 of the population, a number which can be used to compare with other LGAs. The statewide number of recorded offences rose by 13.2 per cent to 8,692 per 100,000 Victorians.

Casey in Melbourne’s east and Moorabool outside of Ballarat recorded comparable figures of 6,783 and 6,504 offences, respectively, in 2024.

Melbourne LGA recorded the highest number with 22,080, and the highest regional figure (and

state’s fifth highest LGA) was Greater Shepparton with 14,697.

CSA chief statistician Fiona Dowsley said the rate of theft offences had exceeded historical peaks and was driven by recordhigh numbers of thefts from motor vehicles and retail stores and theft of motor vehicles themselves as reported by Victoria Police.

“These increasingly prevalent theft offences can be opportunistic in nature and may be linked to cost of living pressures,” Ms Dowsley said.

“Increases in shoplifting are linked to adult offenders often in their 30s.

“Younger alleged offenders tend to be involved in theft offences involving motor vehicles.”

Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland slammed the government for failing to curb rising crime in regional Victoria, and said the figures for all LGAs in her electorate were ‘alarming’.

Ms Cleeland said government incompetence was to blame for poorly-resourced police and that local residents were now vulnerable.

“The Allan Labor Government

has lost control of law and order in Victoria,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Soaring crime rates, soft-oncrime bail laws, and a lack of urgency in banning deadly weapons like machetes have made it far too easy for criminals to terrorize our communities.

“Victorians should feel safe in their homes, businesses, and on the streets - but under Labor, crime is running rampant, and locals are paying the price.”

The Euroa electorate saw a sharp rise in total criminal incidents, recorded offences, and family violence incidents.

“These statistics aren’t just numbers - they represent real people in our towns who are living in fear,” Ms Cleeland said.

“We’re hearing of stolen vehicles in Violet Town...and widespread property damage - all while locals are left begging for answers on community pages or contacting my office in desperation.

“Community safety is not a political game - it’s a fundamental right.”

The CSA data are available at https://www.crimestatistics.vic. gov.au/

107-109 Binney Street, Euroa

(03) 5795 1086

100% Locally Owned & Operated

Euroa Community Cinema

BECOMING LED ZEPPELIN Sat 29 March, 8pm & Sun 30 March, 4pm

ALARMING RISE IN SHIRE: The number of recorded crimes in Strathbogie Shire increased by 252 in the year leading up to December 2024.

Explores the origins of this iconic group and their meteoric rise in just one year against all the odds. Powered by awe-inspiring, psychedelic, never-before-seen footage, Documentary performances and music. The 137 mins film is told in Led Zeppelin’s own words and is the first officially sanctioned film on the group

WHITE BIRD Sat 5 April, 8pm & Sun 6 April, 4pm

WHITE BIRD acts as both a prequel and sequel to the 2014 movie WONDER. Julian, the boy who bullied Auggie Pullman in WONDER, is expelled from school. While attending a new school, Drama Julian’s grandmother finally 121 mins tells her grandson about her life story.

2025

As summer fades and autumn begins, we take a moment to reflect on the challenges of extreme heat, bushfires, and storms over the past months that have tested communities across the state, reinforcing the importance of preparedness, swift response, and resilience.

While the seasons may be changing, our focus remains the same – making sure resources are where they’re needed, learning from recent events and strengthening our strategies for the future.

The seasonal outlook shows a higher chance of warmer maximum temperatures into early autumn which may delay the start of planned burning in some parts of the state. It also raises opportunities for planned burning targeting areas that are not usually available under autumn conditions.

We manage Victoria’s bushfire risk in a holistic way, including – but not exclusively – through planned burning.

Large intense bushfires are a significant threatening process to the natural environment.

Fire risk management needs to be balanced alongside land management to be effective.

Reducing the risk and impacts of bushfires requires a multifacetted approach; there are no magic bullets.

Victorian firefighters and fire managers are world class, relying on the latest wide-ranging and global body of research and work with other jurisdictions, but we apply our experience and knowledge to Victorian conditions.

Planned burning is part of our long-term strategy.

It’s not just about a single burn, or single year, but an ongoing process aimed at creating a strategic network of fuel-reduced areas on public land.

This network helps to slow the spread of fire and helps firefighters to reduce threats to communities, critical infrastructure and the environment.

As soon as favourable weather and forest conditions arrive, we’ll be making sure all available resources are delivering planned burning.

There may be some forest and road closures in place during and after planned burning.

If you live in or are visiting an area where planned burning is taking place, there’s a good chance you’ll see FFMVic firefighters preparing locations or delivering planned burns.

They’ll be the ones in our distinctive green firefighting uniforms.

FFMVic Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman, AFSM

safer,” Mr Kennedy said.

“We work with the Bureau of Meteorology to assess weather conditions, such as humidity, temperature, and wind speed and will only carry out burns when the conditions are suitable, and it is safe to do so.”

FFMVic is made up of skilled and experienced staff from Victorian fire and land management agencies, including DEECA, Parks Victoria, and Melbourne Water.

FFMVic works with emergency sector partners including the Country Fire Authority, Fire

Rescue Victoria, and Emergency Management Victoria to manage bushfire risk, prepare communities, and respond to bushfires and other emergencies.

Latest updates on planned burns can be found at https:// plannedburns.ffm.vic.gov.au/

to a farm at Whroo on Sunday morning to find the toddler unresponsive and were unable to revive her.

Preschool free

Children under 13yrs must be with an adult

A letter from the Chief Fire Officer

Toddler drowns outside Nagambie

A TWO-year-old girl has drowned after being found in a dam near Nagambie.

Ambulance Victoria was called

EFTPOS available

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

Lighting up in the cool for summer safety FOREST Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) will take advantage of favourable weather and forest conditions across the state to reduce the risk of bushfires on the community and environment.

FFMVic deputy chief fire officer Aaron Kennedy said planned burning is one of the key tools firefighters use to reduce the size, intensity, and impact of bushfires.

“Reducing fuels such as grass, leaves, bark, shrubs, and small fallen branches means fires are less intense, slower to spread, and safer for firefighters to control,” Mr Kennedy said.

“Autumn is generally the best time of the year to undertake planned burns as the weather is more stable and fire behaviour is manageable and predictable.

“Given the limited opportunities to undertake planned burning, it is important that we commence this work as soon as weather and forest conditions are suitable.”

This year more than 100 planned burns across an area of 46,300 hectares are prepared and ready for ignition in north east Victoria.

Priority burns are planned in state forest, parks, and reserves, including around Tatong and Beechworth.

“While planned burning is our most effective tool to reduce bushfire risk, in locations where planned burning isn’t suitable, we mulch, mow, slash and spray, build fuel breaks, and upgrade and maintain the public land road network to keep Victoria

$12

Tickets

The child died at the scene.

Police have asked that the family’s privacy be protected after a member from a media outlet was

APRIL 5 Carboot Sale 9am Saturday 5th April at the Baptist Church Kennedy St, Euroa.

Bookings: Dot 0418 300 367 or Susan 0473 817 245.

MAY 11 Sund’y By The Seven’s Concert with Greg Dudley and Rod Grant. (Grant n’ Dudley).

‘Give Mum a unique Mother’s Day Treat’.

Commences 1.30pm Sunday 11th May (Mother’s Day) in the Third Age Clubrooms Kirkland Ave Euroa. Admission Free.

OCTOBER 25-26 The Euroa Agricultural Society Inc will hold the 133rd Euroa Agricultural Show at the Euroa Showgrounds Sat 25 & Sun 26.

Register your function in Special Events Diary at a cost of per listing which lasts up to .

assaulted in the vicinity of the property later on Sunday.

Police will prepare a report for the Coroner.

Call the on 5795 3041 or email Lorraine at lmillard@nemedia.com.au

Page 4 - THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025

Get your bins right

Strathbogie Shire

Community Information Council Meeting Wrap-Up Kerbside Works

Pet Registration Due 10 April

• Dog and cat registration renewal payments must be finalised by 10 April. Now is the time to ensure your pet’s details are current.

• If you own a pet, please take a moment to: These works are part of our Check that your pet’s registration Stormwater Management Plan, which details are up to date guides improvements to drainage Notify Council of any changes, infrastructure across the Shire. such as a new address or a pet’s These improvements will help manage status stormwater more effectively and Register any new pets reduce localised flooding in the area. in your household Council Meeting Times • Keeping your pet registered Council recently sought community helps ensure they can be feedback on changing the easily identified and returned start time of Council meetings home if they become lost. from 6:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

• To update your details, register Following the public consultation a pet, or make a payment, period held from 7 to 24 February 2025, there has been a positive contact our Customer Service response to this proposed change.

Team on 1800 065 993 or email Policy Adoption info@strathbogie.vic.gov.au.

• Please note that all dogs and During this council meeting, several key policies were approved. These cats being registered for the policies provide the framework first time with Strathbogie Shire and structure for Council’s Council must be microchipped. business operations, ensuring good This requirement also applies to governance, risk management, and pets moving into Strathbogie compliance. Policies approved: Shire from another municipality.

• Volunteer Policy: outlining For more information, visit www.

Council’s commitment to fostering strathbogie.vic.gov.au/community/ volunteerism and enhancing pets-and-livestock/register-my-pet/. community participation in delivering Council services BinRight Strathbogie – • Councillor Social Media Policy: This policy guides Councillors on the Sort it Smart, Bin it Right! use of social media to ensure they Never miss bin night again! do not breach the Model Councillor BinRight Strathbogie is your goCode of Conduct and mitigate a to app for all things waste and range of legislative and other risks. recycling in Strathbogie Shire.

• Councillor Confidentiality Policy: Whether you’re unsure which This policy consolidates existing bin to use or need a reminder provisions related to document for collection day, BinRight confidentiality and privacy into one Strathbogie makes it easy to do document while addressing the the right thing with your waste. obligations arising from the Model BinRight Strathbogie is free to Councillor Code of Conduct. download on the App Store Council is pleased to announce that as part of the 2024-25 Capital Works Program, we’ll be delivering stormwater upgrades and kerb and channel construction at 1-3 Kennedy Street, Euroa.

These policies will support the effective and ethical operation of Council activities moving forward.

euroagazette.com.au

(Apple) & Google Play (Android) Download the app today to help you get it right on bin night.

Showcase Your Business Careers at Strathbogie in the 2025 Official Visitor Carpenter/Handyperson Guide

• Full time to Strathbogie Shire’s 2025 Official September 2025 Visitor Guide (OVG) is coming soon— • Band 4 $66,204 our premier tourism publication promoting the region’s top attractions, pro-rata per annum • Applications close 5pm March 31 experiences, and businesses.

Visit www.strathbogie.vic.

To support local recovery after gov.au/careers to find out the October 2022 floods, Council more and apply today. is offering a 50% discount on advertising for businesses in the Shire, funded by the Community Ordinary Council Meeting Recovery Hub through the Australian The April Ordinary Council Meeting and Victorian Governments’ will commence at 4pm on Tuesday Disaster Recovery Funding.

15 April 2025. The community are Secure your spot by 4 April 2025: invited to attend the Euroa Community https://events.humanitix.

Conference Centre or to view the com/2025-official-visitors-guide meeting online via the livestream link Don’t miss this opportunity to connect on the Council website at https://www. with visitors and grow your business! strathbogie.vic.gov.au/meetings/

1800 065 993 www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au info@strathbogie.vic.gov.au Follow us for regular updates @strathbogieshire

STRATHBOGIE Shire Council is making it easier for residents to manage their waste and recycling, with the launch of the BinRight Strathbogie app on Thursday, 13 March.

The free app provides residents with personalised bin collection reminders, an A-Z waste sorting guide, and the latest updates on council’s waste services, ensuring everyone can ‘sort it smart and bin it right’.

Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy said the app would significantly enhance waste management in Strathbogie Shire, particularly with the upcoming introduction of the purple-lidded glass recycling bin in July.

“We know that remembering which bin goes out each week can sometimes be confusing and with the introduction of the new glass recycling bin we want to make it as easy as possible for our community to do the right thing,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.

“The BinRight Strathbogie app will send reminders straight to your phone so you never miss a collection day, and it provides an easy-to-use waste guide so you can quickly check what goes where.”

From May to July, all households with a kerbside collection service will receive a new purple-lidded bin for glass recycling, which will be collected once every four weeks.

The collection frequency of general rubbish, mixed recycling, and organics will remain the same.

The app will assist residents by displaying their updated bin schedule once the service begins.

“We’re excited about this

step toward a more sustainable future,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.

“Separating glass from other recyclables means more of our materials can be reused, supporting Victoria’s transition to a circular economy.”

The BinRight Strathbogie app is now available for free download on the App Store (Apple), and Google Play (Android).

More information about the app can be found at www. strathbogie.vic.gov.au/binrightapp.

For more information about the upcoming purple-lidded glass recycling bin rollout, visit www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/4bins, or contact Council on 1800 065 993, or at info@strathbogie. vic.gov.au

Nats abandon Indi for 2025 election

THE National Party has announced it will not contest a candidate in the Indi electorate this federal election, but rather focus its resources on Bendigo.

State director Lyndel Feery confirmed that no deals were made with the Liberal Party in other electorates, but the Nationals prefers to focus its resources on the Bendigo seat.

The Nationals Party has been on a downward slide in Indi for several terms, with candidate Liz Fisher only securing 3.79 per cent of the primary vote in 2022, a plummet from 9.45pc for Mark Byatt in 2019 and 17.22pc for former local Marty Corboy in 2016.

It opens the door for other parties to garner more votes, but based on the 2022 election primaries, the Liberals will need a massive swing to snatch the seat from the Independent Helen Haines’ grip, having held it since 2013.

Haines won the seat in 2022 with 40.68pc of the primary vote and an 8.33pc swing in her favour over Liberal candidate Ross Lyman, who secured 30.52pc of the primary vote.

Current Liberal candidate for Indi James Trenery wants the election to be called soon following an assumed postponement due to ex-tropical cyclone Alfred.

He said there are no guar-

antees Indi Nationals votes will go his way.

“You still have to earn everyone’s vote,” Mr Trenery said.

“I’m happy to work with anyone on the Nats’ side to make sure everyone knows where I stand on issues and if they’re happy to vote for me, they’re happy to vote for me.

“You would hope that people in that community would vote for me, but you have to earn every vote and if anyone has any questions, I’m happy to answer them as well.

“My stance on the battery in Dederang and Meadow Creek solar facility has certain helped.

“The National membership is onboard with that as well.”

As a potential regional member of parliament, Mr Trenery said the farming community was an important part of Indi.

“Not just with the number or people, but also the dollars around it with primary producers, it’s very important to small and larges towns alike in Indi,” he said.

Dr Haines encouraged anyone who might have voted National in the past to consider voting Independent this election.

“I’m the daughter of dairy farmers and I have a track record fighting for our agricul-

tural communities and farmers,” she said.

“This dates right back to when I was first elected, helping farmers secure $15.2 million in financial support after the devastating Black Summer bushfires of 20192020.

“More recently, I backed farmers in opposing the Labor Government’s proposed super tax changes and in their attempts to push biosecurity levies and charges onto farmers – both fights we won.

“I stood up for our winemakers through the prosecco trade negotiations and I helped secure $76.4 million for Sustainable Agricultural Facilitators.

“I have clear policies to support farmers, like holding the big supermarkets to account, tax relief of up to $30,000 to help lower costs, along with housing, health, childcare and telecommunications and I’ll keep up the fight for regional Australia.”

Mitch Bridges is the Labor candidate for Indi, but with the delay of the election being called, there has also been a delay in candidates from other parties being announced.

Odds for candidates to win the Indi election have Independent Helen Haines at $1.18, Liberal at $4.35, and Labor at $23.

THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025 - Page 5

euroagazette.com.au

It all STEMs from experience

By ANDY WILSON STUDENTS at Euroa Secondary College had the unique opportunity to fly the skies of Sydney in an Army helicopter among other virtual reality (VR) training exercises when the Australian Army visited the school on Friday, 28 February.

Unlike typical recruitment drives intended to foment a career path based on enthusiasm alone, this visit was part of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) STEM initiative, where students are given hands-on opportunities to experience the use of science in defence.

“Our program is all designed to try and encourage kids to stick with STEM classes that they’re already doing,” Major David McEvoy said.

STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) is a coverall concept recognised by science academics for almost a quarter of a century as being a basis for revitalising careers and advancement in the sciences.

Secondary students following a STEM path can be expected to study mathematics, coding, computer science, physics, and maybe chemistry to build a solid engineering foundation.

Major McEvoy said the visit to the college was to show the more engaging side of STEM.

beforehand.

We can make a promise that no other university can: ADFA jects“There are so many ca-

EASE IN ON THE FUTURE: Major David McEvoy shows students the finer points of a helicopter flight simulator as it flies over Sydney Harbour.

PHOTOS: Andy Wilson “Just to show them that it’s fun,” he said.

“And then obviously the second part of it is hopefully they’ll consider careers in the ADF doing a STEM role.”

Two of those students were Danny Williams and Ethan Henson who are both aspiring to careers in the military.

Danny said his father’s former career in the Air Force had been a driving factor in his own decision making, particularly as his father always came home with exciting stories.

“So, he has kind of inspired me to join the Air Force as well,” Danny said.

“He’s a smart guy, so I aspire to be like him.

“Also, although I’m not super certain about what I want to do in the future, I feel like the military’s a good basis, a good starting point to figure it out from there.”

Ethan Henson said he had gone from having ‘really no idea’ of what he wanted to do in his future to being interested in taking up a gap year in the ADF. “I heard about what it offers,” Ethan said.

“The pay, all of that stuff, what you can do, what jobs you can do.”

Ethan made a pact with Danny and a third fellow student that they would all apply for the Air Force together.

“And do the training to-

gether, and then see where it goes from there.

“After the gap year, we were going to take another year just to travel with that money.

“But then I definitely might stay, to be honest,” he said.

“Maybe rejoin.”

Also on offer to the students was a lesson on the theory of flight and other VR experiences with an artillery gun line and a HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) launch.

Major McEvoy said the response from the students to the VR experience was enthusiastic.

“They loved it, absolutely loved it, which is great,” he said.

Major McEvoy said genuine aspirants did not need to be pointed out from among the students.

“Usually, they identify themselves pretty quickly,” he said.

“They’ll normally come over here and start asking specific questions, and that’s a pretty good indicator that they’ve already got an interest in defence.”

Major McEvoy spoke to the students about studying for a degree at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) either straight from school or after a gap year in which they join the ADF for 12 months.

His focus was on the students studying the right sub-

reers in STEM now, it’s just incredible,” he said.

“Whether it’s communications or flying or whatever.

“But amazingly enough, what I find is, and we found it definitely yesterday as well as today, a couple of the kids who hadn’t thought about a defence career at all and then said ‘what, I can go to university, and I don’t have to pay HECS?’ “‘I get paid a salary and I get a degree at the end of it - that sounds fantastic for me’.”

Major McEvoy described the ‘shock-horror’ of parents getting on board with the idea as well.

“It’s a lot cheaper for Mum and Dad,” he said.

“The kids get a great education, and they get paid at the same time.

“And then a career waiting for them.

“We can definitely make a promise that no other university can, and that’s a guaranteed career at the end of it.

“You’ll hear the universities talk about they’ve got an 85 or a 90 per cent employment rate, blah, blah, blah.

“Ours is 100 per cent every single student that graduates out of ADFA automatically goes straight into the Defence Force in a role, whatever it is they’ve been training to do.”

A small act makes a big impact.

From July 2025 glass won’t belong in your mixed recycling bin. Take a moment to update your recycling knowledge.

Visit www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/4-bins

Page 6 - THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Rainfall

Euroa Health concerns

(Euroa Township) In a relatively wet week, Euroa enjoyed three decent downpours in the space of 24 hours for a total of 21.4mm rainfall, starting just after lunch on Thursday and ending with a final burst of 8mm in under two hours at 1:30am on Friday.

Off Grid Systems

euroagazette.com.au

I WOULD hope that the chairman and other board members of Euroa Health are aware of some of the governance issues occurring within the senior management team at Euroa Health.

How is it that the CEO managed to lose her number-two along with the two coordinators running the Bowerbird op shop?

Since then a number of volunteers have also left.

There is a common denominator to these events.

Simon Box, Euroa

IN BREIFS LETTERS to the editor must be signed with the full name, address and contact telephone number of the author provided. Letters under 250 words are preferred and we reserve the right to edit letters to fit available space.

Nom de plumes will only be published at the editor’s discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by this newspaper.

Email Post

editor@euroa-gazette.com.au Euroa Gazette AP Gardner Building 45 - 47 Railway Street Euroa, VIC, 3666

Solar Pumps

All types supplied locally

(03) 5821 0783

MOVED TO SHEPPARTON www.commodoreaustralia.com.au

45-47 Railway Street, Euroa VIC 3666 Classifieds: 5723 0101 or classifieds@nemedia.com.au General Advertising: 5795 3041 Ext 3 Editorial: 5795 3041 Ext 2 or editor@euroa-gazette.com.au www.euroagazette.com.au www.nemedia.com.au

Find us on: NEWSPAPER DEADLINES: Display ads - 3pm Thursday Classifieds - 3pm Monday Sports results - 10am Monday General news - 12 noon Friday Letters - 10am Monday Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 45-47 Railway Street, Euroa, 3666.

Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner.

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

YOUR GAZETTE TEAM

Dale Mann PHOTOGRAPHER

Lorraine Millard ADVERTISING ACCOUNTS MANAGER

Daniel Godsmark SPORT EDITORIAL

Andy Wilson JOURNALIST

ON SALE AT: Euroa: Euroa Newsagency Violet Town: Violet Town Corner Store Avenel: Avenel Newsagency Benalla: Benalla Newsagency Strathbogie: Strathbogie Store Nagambie: Nagambie Newsagency Longwood: Longwood Newsagency Merton: Merton General Store Seymour: Seymour Newsagency Shepparton: Lovell’s Newsagency Wangaratta: Edgar’s Newsagency

The Gazette is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council.

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

Member

VOLUNTEERS at the Riggs Creek Fire Brigade will be honoured this Sunday, 30 March at the Moglonemby Community Hall in an event to celebrate almost 120 years of the brigade’s operation.

All previous and current members will be recognised with the unveiling of an honour board.

Where: 270 Moglonemby Hall Road, Euroa.

When: 1.30pm for 2pm start, with afternoon tea to follow.

For further information, contact Keith on 0427 538 090 or Lyndal on 0408 372 584

Smashing times ahead with the shuttlecock as season starts

Est. 1897

Edward Higgins DIRECTOR

Moglonemby firies recognised for over a century of service

EXPLORING FEELING FOR COLOUR: Participants in Mary Peacock’s watercolour class take time to experiment with colour and design in just one of the U3A’s courses. From left, Gaye Wallace, Mary Peacock, Brenda Snowden, and Judith Durham.

PHOTO: Robyn Sheehan

Euroa’s U3A providing more interesting activities

By ROBYN SHEEHAN

IT is March and the U3A is offering another absorbing year of activities for members to enjoy.

Popular classes that have been going for several years include Art Appreciation, Australian Literature, Games, Philosopher’s Forum, Exploring Spirituality, Poets and Poetry, Rambling, and Mahjong.

New offerings for 2025 include Arts & Craft Space, Cryptic Crosswords, Watercolour Painting, and Art Journaling.

Organisers are also working on day trips for those who just want a day out for friendly like-minded people to musical events or special places of interest.

For anyone who is not sure about the U3A – here is a little background.

The U3A as we know it is an international movement whose aims are the education and stimulation of mainly retired members of the community – those in their third ‘age’ of life.

However, it has nothing to do with universities, studying for a degree, or even needing to have a degree to join.

It takes its name ‘university’ from the original meaning of the word, which is loosely translated as meaning the sharing of knowledge.

All our convenors are local people who are sharing their skills and knowledge of what interests them or what they have learned during their working life.

Mary Peacock’s Introduction to Watercolour Painting classes were held recently, where participants were encouraged to paint from real life, while exploring their feeling for colour and design.

Mary was able to demonstrate the unique skills of how to create appropriate depth of colour, washes, and design.

If you are interested in coming along to any class or activity, please ring our course convenor Cheryl on 0498 322 658.

Anyone may attend one class to see if it is what they are looking for but after that, for insurance purposes, all participants must become a member of the local Euroa U3A. Membership is $25 per calendar year.

It’s time to dust off the racquets and get ready for a hit up in 2025.

The Euroa and District Badminton Association (EDBA) is excited to have started the 2025 season on Monday night with practice/grading nights being held at the stadium at Euroa Secondary College next Monday, 31 March and again on Monday, 28 April.

Practice starts at 7pm and everyone is welcome.

Competition begins on Monday, 5 May at 7pm and every Monday thereafter.

As usual, there’ll be incentives for early payment of fees and discounts applied to families with three or more members playing; and for junior (secondary or primary school) players.

Payment plans can also be arranged.

There will be a couple of courts free for junior coaching or for those just wanting an odd hit at a minimal cost.

We look forward to seeing everyone back and welcoming new members so spread the word and please see future editions of the Euroa Gazette for further details.

For more information visit the EDBA Facebook page, or contact Shae Van Der Schoor on 0412 576 380 or at Shae.VanDerSchoor@ fusion5.com.au, or Brent Moore on 0423 863 442

Euroans rattle pockets to tune of $4,600

By BARBARA KRUSE EUROA Red Cross would like to thank the Euroa community for joining the many thousands of Australians this year who generously supported the 2025 Red Cross Calling fundraising campaign.

We raised $4624 which will support the life-changing work of Red Cross in Australia and throughout the world.

Thankyou goes out to the volunteers who gave up their time to man our table outside Burton’s IGA. The Euroa Red Cross branch meets on the first day of every month at the RSL building at 10am.

Anyone interested in becoming a member is most welcome.

Please phone Barbara Kruse on 0448 801 369 or Pam Case on 0417 104 231.

THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025 - Page 7

euroagazette.com.au

Level crossing ‘occupation’ a success thanks to local brew

By ANDY WILSON

SUPPORT BOTH WAYS: Sarah Floyd said earlymorning Inland Rail workers were in need of coffee and breakfast over the weekend.

PHOTO: Andy Wilson

ONE Binney Street establishment made the very most of Inland Rail’s epic 60-hour marathon reconstruction of the Birkett Street level crossing over the weekend by opening its doors well before even the first sparrow stirred.

Fare Enough Café coowner Sarah Floyd said that once news reached her and husband Broderick about John Holland’s plans for a two-and-a-half-day

‘occupation’ of the road and rail intersection, they decided the need for a caffeine and breakfast service would be met by them opening their doors at 4:30am last Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

Sarah said the special opening times were for the whole town.

“This wasn’t an exclusive thing - we were open for everyone,” Sarah said.

She said the project was supporting local businesses as equally as it needed sup-

port from the town.

“I know that not everyone is a fan of the project as it goes ahead, but it is certainly boosting our customer base and our sales.

“And they are lovely ladies and gentlemen coming into town.”

Sarah said the three day opening hours were a special maybe-one-time-only ‘thing’, but saw potential in coffee being a mainstay for the workers.

“Maybe that’s the secret to productivity.”

Support sought to improve farmer wellbeing THE Nationals’ member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland is calling for the Victorian Government to expand its drought support package to include more areas in northeast Victoria, helping farmers clean out dams, repair water infrastructure, and access critical mental health support.

Ms Cleeland attended a livestock drought maintenance session in Euroa, where she heard firsthand from farmers about the mounting challenges caused

by the prolonged dry conditions.

“These meetings are vital as dry conditions continue to bite,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Farmers are doing everything they can to keep their livestock and businesses afloat, but they need real, practical support - not just short-term band-aid solutions.”

Drought has persisted in some regions since April 2023, leaving farmers struggling with dwindling water supplies, financial stress,

and emotional exhaustion.

Speaking in parliament this week, Ms Cleeland urged the government to ‘step up’ its efforts, calling for additional support to help farmers maintain essential water infrastructure and improve access to mental health services.

“The government’s drought package must be extended to include funding for cleaning dams and repairing water infrastructure - without water security, farms simply cannot

survive,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Beyond the financial pressure, the emotional toll of watching stock suffer and businesses struggle is pushing many farmers to breaking point.

“We need to do more to support their mental wellbeing, ensuring they have access to the services and help they need.

“Our farmers are the backbone of our regional communities - now is the time for DROUGHT PERSISTENCE: The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, the government to step up Annabelle Cleeland, with farmers at the livestock drought and stand with them.” maintenance session in Euroa.

Agents Choice | property guide the gazette

The joys of a good book ESCAPE TO TRANQUILLITY

This peaceful country home is nestled on 5640sqm/1.4 acres, this property offers the perfect blend of peaceful rural living and modern comforts, all just 10 minutes from Euroa.

Featuring: • Three spacious living areas, offering flexibility for relaxation and entertainment • Functional open plan kitchen/meals area filled with potential to create the culinary kitchen of your dreams • Three spacious light filled bedrooms and a versatile study or fourth bedroom • Central bathroom • Practical laundry featuring great storage space and separate toilet • Two fireplaces and a split system for year-round comfort • The expansive rear yard provides a space for entertaining, children’s play, or quiet evenings under the stars • Three large poly water tanks for home and garden water usage • Large fully secure fenced paddock perfect for pet sheep or ponies featuring a good-sized shed Numerous opportunities to renovate or develop this into a beautiful lifestyle property, with picturesque views across the North East region.

3

1

Residents of GraniteHill are immersed in the latest best seller novels with the assistance of Euroa Health volunteer Lisa and her fourlegged friend Basil. Through a one on one reading initiative, Lisa feels she has really “struck gold”, by doing something she loves while brightening the residents’ day.

“It’s extremely fulfilling to see resident’s eyes light up as I walk into the room, ready to continue the next chapter of their book of choice, especially for those who may be unable to read on their own, and I am also excited to find out what happens in the book too.”

Basil has a calming presence of his own at GraniteHill for residents as a gentle companion offering cuddles and pats before curling up for a well-earned nap while Lisa reads the next chapter and his presence adds an extra layer of relaxation.

PROPERTY LOCATION: 1216 Euroa-Strathbogie Road Kelvin View LAND SIZE: 1.40 Acres / 5640 sq meters PRICE: $500,000 - $550,000 AGENT CONTACT: Bec Gilliland | 0429 376 652 Lynne Ruscoe | 0437 921 811

Greta Richards enjoying listening to “The Dry” 36 Kennedy Street Euroa VIC 3666 Mail: PO Box 126 Euroa VIC 3666

T + 61 3 5795 0200 E eh@euroahealth.com.au

www.euroahealth.com.au

Page 8 - THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025

euroagazette.com.au

Government should support community stores: ACCC ■ From front page

“There is no ‘silver bullet’ that will address all the issues we have identified in the supermarket sector, but we are confident that our recommendations will make a difference for consumers, will equip suppliers to make more informed business and investment decisions while bearing a more appropriate level of risk, and will boost competition in the sector.”

The report recognised consumers’ preference for convenience but noted that customers were shopping around more than in the past, possibly increasing the supermarkets’ incentive to compete more ‘vigorously’ on price.

The ACCC is recommending ALDI, Coles, and Woolworths be required to publish their prices on their websites.

The report said significant barriers for new or smaller supermarkets made the largescale entry of a new supermarket chain in the immediate fu-

ture unlikely, as demonstrated

by ALDI taking more than 20 years to achieve its current market share of nine per cent and that small-scale local entry and expansion was more achievable.

The report recognised the different product range and level of service provided by small-scale independent supermarkets.

Land acquisition was also scrutinised by the inquiry, hearing that Coles and Woolworths had significant advantages of competing with each other for suitable retail sites due to their size and financial resources, making the process challenging for smaller businesses.

Coles and Woolworths have acquired about 260 sites between them in the last six years, of which the ACCC was only notified of 14, sometimes by third parties.

Mr Keogh said government zoning played a big part in land acquisition and that recently passed merger reform

laws would give the ACCC greater power to scrutinise supermarket acquisitions further.

The ACCC also called for greater transparency with pricing and discounts.

A key concern raised by consumers throughout the inquiry was instances of ‘shrinkflation’, where a product’s size was decreased but the price either remained the same or increased.

The ACCC is recommending that supermarkets publish when shrinkflation occurs.

The inquiry also found that there was a significant bargaining power imbalance between ColesWorth and some suppliers, with the two chains exercising their buying power through their trading terms and business processes and practices.

The ACCC recommended that ALDI, Coles, and Woolworths be required to provide fresh produce suppliers with greater transparency about the weekly tendering process-

Here for You

NO MORE CHOKING SUPPLIERS: UNDER THE ACCC’S INQUIRY RECOMMENDATIONS, SUPERMARKETS WOULD NEED TO PROVIDE FRESH PRODUCE SUPPLIERS WITH MORE DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT THE BASIS FOR SEASONAL FORECASTS TO ALLOW THOSE SUPPLIERS GREATER ABILITY TO PREDICT FUTURE DEMAND. PHOTO: ANDY WILSON

es they use to negotiate price and volumes with suppliers and recognised the need for further consultation on this.

Under the recommendations, supermarkets would need to provide fresh produce suppliers with more detailed information about the basis for seasonal forecasts to allow those suppliers greater ability to predict future demand.

“Improving transparency for demand forecasts will give suppliers greater certainty and greater ability to assess their risk exposure in the supply of fresh produce,” Mr Keogh said.

“We received detailed information in confidential submissions and roundtables with suppliers who fear retribution from raising concerns directly with the major supermarkets.

“We found that suppliers need more information and protections to be able to make more informed investment decisions.”

Coles Supermarkets responded cautiously to the report by saying the country’s grocery sector was highly competitive and rapidly evolving, and welcomed the ACCC recognising that rising business costs had driven grocery prices up.

“Coles’ net profit margin of 2.6% has remained stable for the past five years,” the statement said.

“Coles welcomes any recommendations that improve transparency for suppliers and customers but cautions against measures that will increase red tape and drive up costs.”

The supermarket chain said it was currently reviewing the report and its recommendations in detail.

Nationals leader David Littleproud said the report’s release was designed for a government ‘about to go to an election’ and represented a business-as-usual approach to supermarket anticompetitive behaviour.

Mr Littleproud accused the Prime Minister of reneging

on an earlier promise to consumers.

“Anthony Albanese pledged on January 16, 2024, ‘if the ACCC asks for more powers, then my government will give it to them’, after ACCC chief Gina CassGottlieb said she would welcome new powers to break up big business including supermarkets and that those powers would be ‘useful to have in the toolkit’,” Mr Littleproud said.

“However, just a month later, after the big supermarkets had obviously got to him, he declared he would rule out divestiture because ‘we are not a Soviet country’.

“Mr Albanese has been too weak to stand up to the major supermarkets and has had the wrong priorities, making excuse after excuse for three years.”

The final report can be found at https://www.accc. gov.au/inquiries-and-consultations/supermarkets-inquiry-2024-25/final-report

MARCH COMMUNITY UPDATE - GOULBURN VALLEY PUBLIC HEALTH UNIT

Celebrating Diversity: Harmony Week 17th - 23rd March 2025 BOLO MARCH REPORT

Harmony Week, celebrated each March, is a time to reflect on and appreciate Australia’s cultural diversity.

It highlights the importance of inclusiveness, respect, and belonging in building a harmonious society.

(Be On the Look Out) Japanese Encephalitis (JE) virus is a rare but serious disease spread by mosquito bites. While the risk in Victoria is low, it is important to take precautions if travelling to rural areas. Use mosquito repellent, wear protective clothing, ensure sleeping areas are mosquito-proof, and avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

This year’s theme encourages us to embrace diversity and work towards a future where everyone feels valued. It’s a week dedicated to fostering respect, inclusivity, and understanding across all communities.

At GVPHU, we recognise the significance of supporting and celebrating multicultural communities. It’s essential that we continue to create spaces where people, regardless of background, are respected and accepted.

While progress has been made, there’s still work to do to break down barriers and ensure inclusivity for all.

Measles continues to be a concern in Victoria, with cases reported from overseas travellers. It is highly infectious

While the week itself may have passed, its message lives on. Every day, we have the chance to foster inclusivity, respect one another, and celebrate the values that make our community strong.

Small actions—whether learning about different cultures, sharing a meal, or simply showing kindness —help build a more connected and welcoming society.

Harmony Week serves as a reminder that every small action makes a difference. Let’s continue working together for a future where everyone belongs and cultural diversity is celebrated.

and can cause serious complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis. Monitor for symptoms if exposed, and visit www.health.vic.gov.au for exposure sites and vaccination details.

Protect yourself and others by staying informed and following health recommendations.

For the latest updates, advice, or support, visit the Better Health website or contact the GV Public Health Unit at 1800 313 070.

THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025 - Page 9

euroagazette.com.au

Be a life-maker Everyone should have the chance to try for a family.

Public Fertility Care brings family within reach for more Victorians.

But we need egg and sperm donors to make this possible.

Be a life-maker. Help make the life of a child – and family – possible.

Scan to see what it means to become a donor today.

The text of this advertisement has been approved by the Minister for Health as required by section 40 of the Human Tissue Act 1982 (Vic) March 2024.

Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne.

Become an egg or sperm donor

Page 10 - THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025

euroagazette.com.au

‘Adversity won’t define my limits’

By ANDY WILSON IN what seemed like a packed local diary to celebrate International Women’s Day this year, a woman of considerable substance addressed a 120-strong crowd on Friday, 7 March at Fowles Wine function centre in Avenel.

Alexandrena Parker shared the floor with local MP Annabelle Cleeland and the celebrated Strathbogie winemaker Tegan Clydesdale and spoke about the challenges that being born with cystic fibrosis has had on her determination for a career in the male-dominated world of filmmaking and photography, along with motherhood.

Add to that her lobbying of government, which included an audience with then PM Julia Gillard, to subsidise a $300,000-per-year cost of a groundbreaking drug and this gentle Melbourne firebrand is a modern day hero to women everywhere.

“I am someone who has never let adversity define my limits,” she said.

“It might sound unusual, but I consider myself lucky to

have been born with a lifethreatening disease.

“I truly believe that cystic fibrosis has equipped me with the resilient, disciplined, and problem-solving skills that have fueled the success in many other areas of my life.”

The insurmountable cost of the ‘wonder drug’ Kalydeco was overcome with her grandfather covering the bill for one year.

The bitter-sweet followup was Ms Parker participating in a double-blind clinical trial the following year which changed everything for the worse.

“Because I had been on Kalydeco before, I knew I was on a placebo.

“My health plummeted straight away - it was like my life was on hold.”

The guarantee of access to the drug after the painful trial was followed by astounding success from her and her grandfather’s lobbying efforts, with the duo gaining a political foothold: Kalydeco was approved for a government subsidy in 2017.

Will they now lobby for a retrospective subsidy to pay back her grandfather?

“I will think about that.”

NEVER TOO EARLY, NEVER TOO LATE: The legacy of local woman Leah Jones was continued on in her memory and in the cause of celebrating women everywhere, when a relaxing lunch was hosted in Ms Jones’ garden on Thursday, 6 March. PHOTO: Ruth Fluhr

MODERN DAY HERO: Melbourne mother and cystic fibrosis sufferer Alexandrena Parker has had great success in her career and with strong-arming government.

Getting in early to celebrate one who was even earlier

By ANDY WILSON

WOMEN IN THEATRE OF WAR HONOURED IN ART: Mayor Claire EwartKennedy and RSL president Lt Col Joe Martin inspect the portrait of Vivian Bullwinkel, the sole survivor of the 1942 Bangka Island massacre.

HOME GROWN INITIATIVE: Jenni Kennedy (centre) with Cr Ewart-Kennedy and Lt Col Martin at the plaque unveiling on Saturday, 8 March. Ms Kennedy initiated the concept of the mural six years ago.

PHOTOS: Dale Mann

By ANDY WILSON

Town Men’s Shed and then painted by renowned silo artist Tim Bowtell with his son Sam. Violet Town RSL president Lieutenant Colonel (Retd) Joe Martin said Mr Bowtell admitted the artwork was a ‘bit of a challenge’.

“Not having done something like that for a while, because normally he’s doing big work, you know, using a lot of spray cans, he said it was going to be a challenge,” Lt Col Martin said.

“And he said to me that he’s actually had to pull out the brushes and rehone some of those skills.”

Jenni Kennedy was at the unveiling this year and being born with the surname Ramage, has wide family connections in the area that go back to both world wars.

Lt Col Martin said Ms Kennedy had

The courage and service of women in war honoured A NOTORIOUS beach massacre in the Pacific in 1942 is hardly the starting point for celebrating IWD, but at Violet Town’s Women in War Mural, the story gathers strength as visitors read the unfolding narrative of the role of women in Australia’s defence forces.

On Saturday, 8 March a gathering at the Violet Town RSL celebrated the one-year anniversary of the opening of the mural in 2024 with the unveiling of a plaque by Strathbogie Shire Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy.

The mural’s opening coincided with the 82nd anniversary of the Bangka Island beach massacre of 22 Australian nurses whose hospital ship had been sunk by Japanese bombers.

The seven-metre long and twometre-high mural depicts the role of women in Australia’s armed forces as they evolved from being limited to nursing roles in the Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902) through to senior leadership roles today.

The mural also celebrates the life of Army Doctor Major Susan Felsche who was the first woman to be killed in service since 1945 when her plane crashed on a UN peace-keeping mission to the Sahara in 1993.

Also celebrated is the twelfth and first female Regimental Sergeant Major of the Army, Warrant Officer Kim Felmingham who is currently the highest noncommissioned officer in the Army.

The mural surface was built from panels manufactured at the Violet

initiated the idea of the mural along with her late husband, both having been members of the RSL. “It was her original concept back in 2019 to have a local commemoration for military women in the area,” Lt Col Martin said.

“It grew from that central theme to what it is now - a local commitment within a national context of how women have served in our military.

“And although the dates are not all exactly coinciding, we thought International Women’s Day should be recognised.”

The RSL is now raising funds to install some night lighting and a walker-friendly path and tend to some weathering which Mr Martin says was ‘a bit disappointing’ but needed doing.

WITH events for International Women’s Day filling diaries well ahead of the actual date, some thought went into an earlier celebration on Thursday, 6 March when a gathering of women in the garden of the late Leah Jones met to continue that local woman’s legacy of supporting so many women during her colourful and creative life.

Ms Jones celebrated International Women’s Day across many years in her garden in Eliza Street, Euroa, bringing together women to share wonderful food and friendship.

Convenor Ruth Fluhr said the day was to celebrate those ‘who came before us, those who stand beside us now, and those who will come after’.

“International Women’s Day is a day for women to join voices with people around the world and shout a message for equal rights loud and clear,” Ms Fluhr said.

“Women’s rights are human rights - celebrate all women, in all their diversities.

“Embrace their facets and intersections of faith, race, ethnicity, gender or sexual identity, or disability.

“It’s a time to celebrate the achievements of women, whether social, political, economic, or cultural.”

THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025 - Page 11

euroagazette.com.au

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES

Official Visitors Guide Showcase and connect your business, events and services with the Official Visitor Guide, for the Strathbogie Shire.

SCAN CODE READ MORE

Are you looking to attract more visitors to boost your business? The Official Visitor Guide (OVG) for Strathbogie Shire is your chance to shine!

Special Discount to Support Local Businesses

Why be part of the OVG? Unmatched Exposure

Broad Distribution

Digital Presence

With 20,000 copies printed in 2025, your business will be featured in Visitor Information Centres across Victoria, including the prestigious Melbourne Visitor Information Centre at Melbourne Town Hall.

The guide will also reach visitors through tourism businesses, welcome centres, trade shows, conferences, and familiarisation programs for media and travel professionals.

Benefit from featured listings on the Strathbogie Shire tourism website, placement in outdoor information kiosks, and integration into our expanding digital marketing efforts.

Whether you’re looking to attract new customers, increase brand awareness, or encourage longer stays, the Official Visitor Guide is the perfect platform to promote your business.

Don’t Miss Out! Secure your spot today and take advantage of this high-impact marketing opportunity. For more information on how to get involved, advertisment costs, contact us or scan the QR code above.

1/4 Page Example

In recognition of the challenges faced by our community following the October 2022 floods, the Strathbogie Shire Council is offering a 50% discount on advertising rates in the Official Visitor Guide (OVG) to businesses operating in the Shire. This initiative is part of our commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering resilience in our region.

Take advantage of this limited-time opportunity to showcase your business at half the cost!

Libby Webster Visitor Economy & Events Coordinator Strathbogie Shire Council libby.webster@strathbogie.vic.gov.au 0438 596 201 1/2 Page Example Full Page Example

Bookings close 4 April 2025.

Please Note: All advertisements will be produced by project designers (Euroa Printers) to fit the brochure template. Please note that your address and contact details are not included in your word limit. Photographs and text are preferred in an electronic format. Photographs/ images need to be a minimum of 300 dpi, TIFF, EPS, JPEG or PDF files; via dropbox or email.

Page 12 - THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025

euroagazette.com.au

FORENSIC EFFORT MAKES FOR A 400 YEAR FAMILY TOME OF LOCAL HISTORY

Church Services ANGLICAN CHURCH Holy Eucharist Sunday 30th March 9.15am St Paul’s Euroa Enq: 0405 879 554 Rev Richard Pennington www.anglicaneuroa.org.au All Welcome BAPTIST CHURCH 31 Kennedy Street, Euroa Sunday March 30th, 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 30th 10.30am Morning Worship Everyone welcome Pastor: Murray Broughton 5795 1950 PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Balmattum Every Sunday 3pm Worship Enq: Rev. Stephen McDonald 5762 6275 Yea Presbyterian Church, 9am St Andrew’s Seymour, 11.15am Nagambie inquiries to: Bonnie Purbrick 5794 2544 or Bill Day 5794 2070 CATHOLIC CHURCH St John’s, Euroa Wednesday 8am Mass Friday 12.30pm Mass Saturday Vigil Mass 6pm St. John’s Church Euroa Sunday Mass 8.30am St Patrick’s Longwood 10.30am St Attracta’s Violet Town Enquiries: Fr Tony Hill 5795 3048 For Baptisms and weddings please contact Fr Tony or the Parish Office UNITING CHURCH St Andrew’s, Euroa Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am Everyone Welcome Enq: Robyn Burke 5795 3103 Judi Ward 0437 686 072 St Andrew’s, Strathbogie Service on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 11am All Welcome Enq: Joan Wood 5795 1175 St Andrew’s Violet Town Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am All Welcome Enq: John Dunn 0419 362 866 EUROA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Old School House, Clifton St Euroa Every Sunday Meeting at 9.45am for prayer requests.

10am Service Enquiries: Josh 0402 427 955

FOUR CENTURIES WRIT LARGE: Dianne and Dean Wheeler are celebrating more than 15 years of research with publication of the Wheeler family history.

PHOTOS: Andy Wilson

No wheeling or dealing with the facts for this genius historian

By ANDY WILSON GENEALOGISTS crop up in nearly all families but few have been able to dedicate themselves to a comprehensive trove of family history as Dean Wheeler has for more than a decade-and-ahalf with his innate fine-toothcomb approach.

Mr Wheeler and wife Dianne were at the Euroa Library last Tuesday to hand over a copy of his 650-page tome which outlines a rich history of the local Wheeler family from before their first migration from Ireland.

The initial interest in the family’s history came from Mr Wheeler’s father Bill, who passed away in 1988, with Dean taking up the mantle in the early 2000s, making big inroads after his retirement in 2013.

“I got on well with my dad,” Mr Wheeler said.

“He was lovely, a very gentle, loving sort of a guy.”

Mr Wheeler set to work in his den at home and found the room was not quite ‘cluttered’ soon after.

“It’s not cluttered - it’s busy,” Mrs Wheeler said.

“It’s filled with historical things, travel things.”

Arthur Wheeler - a renowned squatter and Dean Wheeler’s great-great-grandfather - arrived at Port Phillip from Ireland in March 1851 with his wife Anna and ran three livestock properties in succession in the local area until his death in 1893.

The second-generation Wheeler brothers owned other large stations in the Euroa area including the Wanghambeham run, north of Longwood, which is now the site for Lindsay Park Racing.

Helsham Wheeler was known by many and had a garage somewhere near the Euroa traffic lights and was famous for parking his Rolls Royce at the Euroa Agricultural Show each year.

Dean Wheeler’s former career as a forensic accountant meant that his precision in finding evidence was key to the book’s detail, with sources given for every published historical fact.

“I am used to having to prepare briefs of evidence for court, so that’s where everything has to be supported by evidence,” he said.

“That is one of the reasons it took so long and why I wanted to put sources in, and that’s what we do - having a working life in which I would get into the witness box and needing evidence to support what I was saying puts you in a particular frame of mind when you’re doing things.

“So I don’t want to say something, if I don’t know; if it’s not supported I’ll say it’s family folklore.”

The Euroa Library is not without other family history contributions and librarian Cathy Artridge said a section of the library dedicated to local history was boosted by the rich history of local genealogy.

“We are very fortunate to have

the section,” Ms Artridge said.

“A lot of local authors will donate a copy of their work, and Dean’s work is one of the largest ones we have landed and, at over 650 pages, it covers a massive period in history - over 400 years.”

The library will be ordering more copies for locals to borrow, but will keep the current copy for in libris reading.

“I read the first chapter and the wheeler family has connections to some significant people in history,” Ms Artridge said.

“It is incredible the research, and the records he’s been able to access have been amazing.”

Mr Wheeler said an interesting note in the family history was the number of female offspring, resulting in relatives in the local area having other surnames, with ‘Dean’ (nothing more than coincidental to Mr Wheeler’s first name) being one of the most prolific.

His paternal grandfather was the solitary name-carrier amid six sisters, so he cannot put ‘even a ballpark figure’ on how many descendants came from the first Wheelers to migrate.

“And the thing is that Dad was the only child and I was the only son and I’ve got a sister,” Mr Wheeler said.

“But now, Wheeler-wise, I had three sons and we’ve got six grandchildren and five of them are grandsons.”

The solitary granddaughter comes for some special attention.

AUSTRALIAN TINGE: The green inverted v-shape on the Wheeler coat of arms’ shield - the ‘charge’ - has been adorned with three wattle flowers with permission from UK heraldry authorities.

“Of course in some ways we probably love her more because we’ve got at least one girl!”

The first print run of the book is now sold out, with a second run underway and several sent as far as Queensland, Ireland, Canada, and even Sweden.

“We sure are connected with a lot of families in the Euroa district but also out in the world.

“We’re thinking about sending one over to Kilkenny Library because that’s where the family were based in Ireland.”

If the story could not be topped any further, Dean was granted a formal coat of arms due to his ancestors fighting in the Irish Confederate Wars, also known as the Eleven Years War, in the 1640s.

“That’s our coat of arms,” Mr Wheeler said of the front cover’s design.

“The family already had arms, but basically it was back in the 1600s.”

Although official records said the family still had arms, some of them were held by different groups.

When the UK College of Arms’ King of Arms (senior heralds) recognised Mr Wheeler’s application, they ordered him to make the coat of arms ‘different’, heralding the final artistic peak to this enchanting story.

“We put the wattle flower in the coat of arms to give that Australian ‘tinge’ on them.

“They said ‘We don’t normally do this, but we’ll make an exception’.”

THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025 - Page 13

euroagazette.com.au

Haines calls for 24-hour power backup in King Valley communication infrastructure

By ANITA MCPHERSON

STAYING IN TOUCH: Helen Haines MP (at right) met with community representatives including Gabi Moritz (The Oven at Cheshunt), Karen Barber (King Valley Tourism Association), Jan Walsh (Sustainable King Valley), Jimmy Findlay (Cheshunt CFA), Neville Walsh, and Jess Young (Whitfield Primary School and Childcare and Kindergarten) at Cheshunt this week. or floods if people could not contact emergency services or each other.

Dr Haines’ plans would ensure that Telstra and Optus are required to install at least 24 hours of power backup at all towers servicing high bushfire risk areas. “ Te l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s outages in remote areas like Whitfield and Cheshunt in the King Valley puts lives at risk and creates a huge frustration for locals and businesses,” she said.

“Poor telecommunications are a barrier to prosperity

and create significant challenges for our communities in times of emergency.

“We must increase resilience now, before the next fire or flood arrives, not after.

“Currently, local governments and community organisations are locked out of the government’s main telecommunications investment programs and this is something we need to fix.”

Dr Haines said the Jamieson Energy Node was a model project for the fund, which was funded after the Black Summer bushfires to build

telecommunications resilience.

Regardless of the conditions and without solar generation, the battery stores up to three days of autonomous power to give access to satellite internet in time of need.

King Valley communities were hit hard by multiple power outages in February over the course of two weeks, with some community members in the Cheshunt area, including former Cheshunt CFA captain James Findlay, also losing mobile reception which lasted up to two hours.

While newer smartphones can use satellite networks to transmit emergency SOS calls when no mobile signal is available, Mr Findlay said from his experience as a CFA member, the awareness of these settings wasn’t clear among the community.

He said the community’s main hubs - the Cheshunt Hall and Whitfield Recreation Reserve - have backup generators and satellite NBN available which they have tried to promote, but people may not know to go there.

Mr Findlay said Dr Haines

5795 3041

DIRECTORY

lmillard@nemedia.com.au AIRCONDITIONING

DESIGN & DRAFTING

Sales, Service & Installation

For All Your - HEATING -

- COOLING -

(03) 5721 2949 euroaheatingandcooling@gmail.com

CONCRETING

P E R LO W M A N O R

CONCRETING • Small to large jobs

• Shed slabs and Driveways • Free quote Call Andrew 0409 622 817 Euroa & District

EXCAVATION

EXCAVATION

Done Shovelling ABN. 61 301 788 101

- ELECTRICAL -

Trades& Services

• New Homes • exteNsioNs • UNit DevelopmeNts • CommerCial/iNDUstrial projeCts • towN plaNNiNg appliCatioNs • laND sUrveyiNg • BUsHfire assessmeNts • soil reports • strUCtUral eNgiNeeriNg • eNergy ratiNgs • 3D reNDers A ONE STOP SHOP FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING DESIGN NEEDS.

M 0413 122 391

E ron@studiothreedesign.com.au

ENGINEERING

• 5 Tonne Excavator • Bob Cat • 10m3 Tipper House/Shed Sites • Site Cleanups • Foundations Driveways • Trenching • Drainage • Landscaping Post Hole Auger • Fully Insured

Mark - 0428 577 826 Put down the shovel and I’ll save you the trouble

Rob McCullagh 0428 597 861 canyadigit01@gmail.com

EXCAVATION

FLYSCREENS & DOORS

SEYMOUR

If it’s worn, bent, broken or spent you need us!

FLYSCREENS & DOORS

Ford McKernan Engineering Pty Ltd Our fully equipped Machine Shop and welding facilities will have your problem fixed in no time. We also stock steel, pipe, RHS, V-belts, pulleys, weld rods, bolts, CNC Plasma/Profile cut and guillotine, fold steel and stock trailer parts and bearings.

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL (03) 5795 2290 Fax (03) 5795 2589 Cnr Charles & Frost St, Euroa fordmckeng@sctelco.net.au

• Driveways • House/Shed/Concrete Pads And Footings • Landscaping Supplies • Drainage Works • Rural And Domestic Yard Work and More.

Call for a Quote

ABN 38 603 859 607

Made to measure - Free Quote

Kim Ottrey • Jodie Ottrey

• Trenching • Stump & Post hole drilling • Water Trough & Water Line Installs • Stockyard Cleanouts • Site Clearing • Drain clearing • Driveway Repairs • Farmhand/Stock Work Contracting • Firewood-Cutting & Sales

Matt Cooper - 0410 171 080 DIRECTOR

03 5792 1853 0417 012 540 kimautocool@bigpond.com

www.seymourflyscreensanddoors.com.au

89d04347

REGULATIONS requiring all mobile phone towers in bushfire prone areas to have at least 24 hours of power backup, are among the key policy platforms in Indi Independent federal MP Helen Haines’ plans for regional telecommunications, announced in Cheshunt this week.

Dr Haines announced her regional telecommunications policies for the 2025 election in the King Valley township, saying while she’d had success over a number of years in delivering improved phone and internet coverage, there was “much more work to be done”.

She said under independent representation, Indi had been the most successful Victorian electorate under the Mobile Blackspot Program, with more than 65 mobile towers built or upgraded since 2013.

“But we still have areas with poor coverage and that’s something we need to keep working on,” she said.

Dr Haines has also called for a Regional Telecommunications Infrastructure Fund that enables local government and community groups to invest in local, place-based telecommunications projects.

She said when mobile phone towers and internet systems did not have sufficient backup power, entire towns could become cut off, which was dangerous during emergencies like fires

understood the impact the frequent power outages were having on the community, and requiring Telstra and Optus to provide at least 24 hours of power backup at their towers would be a significant improvement.

“Funding for community hubs to stand on their own two feet and provide power at a point where people can use it, is also beneficial,” he said.

“We’ve been working hard on improving the situation here since 2017, when we were without power for five days, so it’s taken a long time, but Helen has been very supportive and taken the matter to Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland on our behalf, and we’ve had responses back there too.”

Continual power outages in the King Valley was also the focus of recent talks in parliament between Wangaratta-based Nationals MP for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy and a senior AusNet representative.

Mr McCurdy said the AusNet representative apologised for the number of outages in the Ovens and King valleys over the summer period, and said AusNet is currently investigating whether it can provide generation support, encouraging King Valley organisations to apply to the Energy Resilience Community Fund to see if viable initiatives can be provided to locals, such as batteries.

Page 14 - THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025

euroagazette.com.au

Trades& Services

5795 3041

DIRECTORY

lmillard@nemedia.com.au GARDEN SUPPLIES

HIRE & PUMPS

PLUMBING SERVICES

STORAGE UNITS

Secure Storage Solutions

Licensed Plumber and Gas Fitter 50447

For Timber. Hardware. Sand Soil and Mulch.

Deliveries available

PEBBLES, PAVERS, STEEL, ROOFING, POTS & CONCRETE PRODUCTS

5795 2300

14 DeBoos St Euroa sales@euroatimber.com.au

- Qualified Plumber and Gas Fitter

For all your Equipment Hire Needs.

PUMPS Sales, Service & Repairs 20-22 Tarcombe Street, Euroa

- Roofing repairs and renewals - Blocked drains and CCTV drain camera

24/7 Access Free Storage for 1st Month* *conditions apply

- 24 Hour emergency plumbing

Email: savsequipmenthire@gmail.com

“No job too big or too small”

12-14 Hay St, Euroa 0438 010 974 frankromeo@harcourts.com.au

PAINTER

PRINTERS

TECH SERVICES

(03) 5795 3148

j/201932006/32-19

HANDYMAN

- New homes, renovations and extensions

Call Derek

0407 095 179

PAINTING

MICHAEL O’CONNOR Domestic Painting

- General Computer Repairs & Servicing - Mobile Phone Support - Data Backup & Recovery - Vintage Electronics Restoration

One room or a whole house Interior | Exterior No Obligation Quote

MICHAEL O’CONNOR

TRADING CO Temporary Fence Hire 1 Tonne ute with driver 3.5T forklift with driver 6m Scissor lift with operator Rotary hoe with operator High pressure cleaning Rubbish removal Flat pack furniture instal General handyman jobs

CALL NOW!

Contact Michael O’Connor

0418 383 273

Domestic Painting One room or a whole house Interior | Exterior PAINTING SEPTIC TANK CLEANING No Obligation Quote

PETRIE P E T- 0 0 2

Contact Amanda Watkins

Call Simon: 0433 759 437 TREE SERVICES

Septic Tanks Cleaned By

Henry The Third

0439 953 340

PAINTING SINCE 1957 0400 607 719

▶ Pruning ▶ Hedging ▶ Tree Removals ▶ Stump Removals

OWNER TONY DEMASI Lic Plumber & EPA

1300 762 395

▶ Free Quotes ▶ Fully Insured ▶ Qualified Arborist ▶ Professional Advice

Mobile 0418 515 596

IAN - 0415 763 978

****** BRETT PETRIE DESIGN - 0400 607 719 ******

Cleaner of: Septic tanks, treatment plants, grease traps, oil interceptors and sludge pits

HANDYMAN

PLUMBING SERVICES

STORAGE UNITS

Storage Units Available Now

VETERINARY CLINIC OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK + 24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE

Located in Euroa & Accessible 24/7 Managed by

Where pets come first 13 Binney St, Euroa (03) 5795 2535

SIGNAGE SLASHING SMASH REPAIRS SOLAR SPRAY PAINTING STONEWORK STORAGE TILES, BRICKS & PAVERS TILING TREE CARE / SERVICES WATER CARTING WINDSCREENS … TO LIST A FEW.

4 BURY ST. EUROA 03 5795 2888 ACEVET.COM.AU

BUILD YOUR

BUSINESS! Advertise in your local Trades & Services Directory...

EVERY WEDNESDAY IN THE GAZETTE

To enquire or book a spot call Lorraine now on

5795 3041

lmillard@nemedia.com.au

THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025 - Page 15

euroagazette.com.au

The best way to reach the Strathbogie Shire

BY PHONE 5723 0101 Classified Information Euroa Gazette office hours

9am - 5pm MON-THURS-FRI

BOOKING DEADLINE

N J Todd Funeral Directors Member AFDA

Servicing Euroa & District since 1937 Damien Feehan Justin Feehan

CREDIT CARD FACILITIES WE ACCEPT

PUBLIC NOTICES

WANTED TO BUY

REGIONAL PUBLICATIONS

Avenel Cemetery Trust AGM Monday, April 14 at 5pm, Avenel Library Hub All positions vacant All welcome

Want to buy a clean old caravan with a shower Ph 5798 5321

FOR SALE

The Chronicle Phone: (03) 5723 0101 email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au Booking deadline: 2pm day prior to print.

2017 Ford Transit CamperVan,54,000km, (1KG6TW),$62,000, for more information ring Phil 0418 994 147.

17 F T 1 9 7 6 Yo r k Caravan, $6000. Call 0493 221 685 and leave a message, I will get back to you when I can.

> FOUND ADVERTISEMENTS All found advertisements are published free.

Simply provide the details of your find for publication. > PERSONAL ADVERTISERS • All personal photos submitted for printing in this issue must be collected within the next 4 weeks.

• All engagement and marriage notices must carry the signatures of BOTH parties, if under 18 the parents’ signatures as well.

• Birth notices require signatures > ADDITIONS • Bold heading • A various selection of logos are available. > INTERNET In lodging an advertisement with us you agree that we may publish the advertisement on our website. The general terms and condition that apply to publication apply also to publication of material on our website.

Incorporating the Nagambie Times and Violet Town Sentinel

AVENEL - EUROA - LONGWOOD - NAGAMBIE - STRATHBOGIE - VIOLET TOWN Wednesday, March 19, 2025

editor@euroa-gazette.com.au

$2.00 inc GST

euroagazette.com.au

Weekend 60-hour challenge to keep Euroa, trains running

ILLEGAL TOBACCO SEIZED Page 5

By ANDY WILSON

BRAND NEW BOAT PACKAGE, Stacer 379 Proline boat, Bimini Boat Cover, Honda 15 HP outboard, 7 Year warranty Stacer trailer, 12 months rego, Safety Gear, $11,000. Ph 0429 082 292.

North East Farmer Phone: (03) 5723 0100 email: nefarmer@nemedia.com.au Booking deadline: Second Friday of month

> PHOTOGRAPHS All photographs appearing in this issue that are taken by our photographers are available as reprints.

Digital editions have just got better

TEGAN Clydesdale was one of three guest speaker’s at Strathbogie Shire’s International Women’s Day afternoon tea in Avenel. The acclaimed head winemaker at Fowles Wine used a decade-and-a-half’s worth of determination to balance the trifecta of fulltime work, study, and single parenting to reach her goal.

PHOTO: Andy Wilson ■ See coverage page 9.

North East Tourist News Phone: (03) 5723 0100 email: sales@nemedia.com.au Phone for quarterly booking deadline

> CAR ADVERTISERS Private vendors of motor cars advertised for sale must include in their advertisement • Cash price of motor car • If car is registered, registration number • If unregistered, the engine number

45-47 Railway Street, Euroa, Victoria 3666

WOMEN HONOURED Level crossing FOR PERSERVERENCE ‘mad dash’ possession

Myrtleford Times / Alpine Observer Phone: (03) 5723 0101 email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au Booking deadline: 3pm Monday day prior to print.

CLASSIFIED GUIDELINES

classifieds@nemedia.com.au

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

By 3pm Monday prior to printing.

Mansfield Courier Phone: (03) 5723 0101 email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au Booking deadline: 12 noon Monday day prior to print.

BY EMAIL

MUST SELL 2007 NISSAN PATROL Ti

Manual, approx. 190k on the clock, includes roof rack and awning, selling due to moving interstate, open to negotiation, pick up Wangaratta, (1YP8XF).

$25,000 Ph 0434 590 566

2014 Ford Ranger W i l d t r a c k , Wa n ga ra t t a , 262,000km, RWC, reg till July (1VR2GV), 2 keys, light bar, electric seats, blue tooth, R cam, service history, local, $20,900 ONO. Call Steve 0402 222 634.

CLASSIFIEDS 5723 0101

During the operation there will be road closures along Birkett, Brock, and CampTHIS Sunday will see the bell Streets, with significant start of Inland Rail’s challenge to overhaul the Birkett movement of large machinStreet level crossing in under ery and vehicles and site lighting.

60 hours as Euroa sees the These are expected to have first tangible evidence that its new railway station precinct possible noise and light impact on neighbouring homes. and underpass is underway.

Rail access will be availThe works during this able from the Dudley Road track ‘possession’ will be non-stop during the day and level crossing.

Inquiries can be made by overnight from 5am Satcontacting Inland rail on urday, 22 March until 6pm 1800 732 761 or inlandrailMonday, 24 March. vic@inlandrail.com.au Birkett Street has alFree translation and inready been closed off since Wednesday with two detours terpreter service 131 450 (24 hours a day) on either side of the track.

Round-the-clock upgrades Work in the previous week between 5am Saturday 22 was halted to reopen the March and 6pm Monday 24 crossing for the Labour Day March include: long weekend.

• Additional truck moveThe crossing is being upgraded to make it a safer and ments where works are accessible route for when the occurring.

• Rail access will be from Anderson Bridge is closed the Dudley Road level crosslater in the year and will ing. involve relocation of cable • Workers using machinand signaling infrastructure, ery, equipment, hand tools removing the existing track and service vehicles. and asphalt surface and • Nearby residents may widening the road width and experience some periods shoulder. of high noise and vibration New track, sleepers, and and may notice additional ballast will then be installed construction workers and along with new asphalt and vehicles in the area. line marking.

MITSUBISHI Tray Top Ute, 410,00km, motor rebuilt, 6 month rego (CU57VL), $2800. Ph 0439 766 211.

FOR sale steel checker plate trailer, 1500 x 2100, reg (N69098) until July 4, 2025, $300. Ph 0437 454 118.

SOLD

Classifieds Work!

Phone:

(03)

5723 0101

EUROA RED WINS GMLTA FLAG

SPORT

(03) 5795 2535 | www.nutrienharcourts.com.au | 13 Binney Street, Euroa

NEW LISTING

$440,000 - $475,000

Classifieds

Page 12

Your Local Real Estate Specialists

258 High Street I Violet Town

MAZDA 2023 CX3 auto hatch, reg CHC333, one owner, immaculate condition, service books,11,875kms,RWC, $27,750 REDUCED PRICE $26,950. Phone Maxwell.K.Batey on 0419 547 308.

KOKODA CHALLENGE GENEROSITY

3 2 3 1 Acre / 4046 Square meters Bec Gilliland | 0429 376 652

NEW LISTING

69 Shiffner Street I Violet Town $150,000 - $165,000 ½ Acre Block / 2023 Square meters Bec Gilliland | 0429 376 652

9 Caulfield Street | Violet Town $200,000 - $220,000

½ Acre block / 2023 Square meters Fully fenced, town water & services available Bec Gilliland | 0429 376 652

WORK!

Classifieds

North East Media’s digital editions have been updated to provide an improved reader experience at a special discounted price.

Phone: 03 5723 0101

Credit Card &Eftpos facilities Why not charge your advertsement to mastercard or visa?

5723 0101

Subscribe now at euroagazette.com.au/ subscriptions

Page 16 - THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025

euroagazette.com.au

SPORT

Tennis Club crowns 2025 champions

By CAROLINE KEENAN THE Euroa Tennis Club wrapped up the season of summer tennis with the annual club championships on Saturday.

Mother Nature provided perfect weather for tennis, while the kitchen goddesses served up another delicious lunch for the crowd, who were treated to high-quality competition.

The juniors kicked off the day, with Will Davey and Bethan Burton claiming the titles of Junior Boys and Junior Girls.

Runners-up Lucas Argus and Avie Hill made the winners work hard for their titles, with both matches going down to the wire.

In the ladies’ final, Marja Wondergem triumphed over a determined Kristen Davey, securing her second consecutive title as ELTC Ladies Club Champion.

In the men’s final, defending champion Bede Redfern, who seemed a little shaky early on, proved why he is now a dual ELTC Club Champion.

He defeated Jai Harrington, who got off to a flying start but couldn’t maintain the momentum.

Redfern gradually gained the upper hand to win the match in a tiebreaker, 6-5.

LUNGING EFFORT: Bethan Burton throws everything into this low volley.

PHOTOS: Dale Mann

LEFT APPROACH: Left-hander Avie Hill takes a free swing at this forehand shot.

FOREHAND DELIGHT: Will Davey guides this shot smoothly over the net.

SERVING IT UP: Jai Harrington shows perfect poise and manages to make it to the finals.

OVERHEAD PERFECTION: Michael Kelly shows total ruthlessness on this smash.

Euroa Basketball announces new committee

By DAN GODSMARK EUROA Basketball is entering an exciting new phase as it welcomes Tim Burton as its new president, following the conclusion of another successful year.

The change in leadership marks the beginning of a new chapter for the club, with fresh energy and a dedicated team taking the reins.

The club would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the outgoing committee - Kristy, Amanda, Jaime, and Sam whose hard work and commitment over the past season have been nothing short of extraordinary.

With only four members filling more than 15 roles, their dedication ensured the smooth operation of the club and its growth.

Their legacy includes fostering new partnerships, expanding programs, and

creating an inclusive environment for all players.

Euroa Basketball is now poised for continued growth and success, with an enthusiastic new committee at the helm for 2025: President – Tim Burton Vice President – Melinda Watson Secretary – Michael Collings Treasurer – Kristie Norton General Committee – Michelle Hanslow, Laura Collings, and Paula Burton Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of support staff is ensuring the ongoing success of the club’s operations: Junior Development Officers – Dan Boote and Guy Ortlipp Junior Domestic Coordinators – James Bodycoat and Paul Enright Equipment Officer – Andrew van Horen General Helpers – Will Old-

FREE THROW: Euroa Basketball gathered to welcome their new committee and celebrate the club’s exciting future under fresh leadership. meadow and Samson Sibanda A special mention also goes to: Michael Collings – Men’s & Ladies Coordinator, Referee Supervisor, and Referee Coach Laura Collings – Child Safety Officer, Media, and PlayHQ

Paula Burton – Grants and Sponsorship Coordinator The new committee is already looking forward to continuing the work of their predecessors, building on the solid foundation laid by the outgoing team.

With the support of this capable group, Euroa Basket-

ball is set to grow and thrive in the years to come, continuing to offer an inclusive environment for players of all ages and abilities.

At a recent presentation evening on Wednesday, 20 March, Tim Burton expressed his gratitude to the outgoing committee for their

dedication and hard work, acknowledging the challenges they faced and praising their efforts in securing the financial future of the club, which will allow for continued investment in players, coaches, and facilities.

“Running a committee with just four people while filling over 15 different roles is no small feat,” Burton said.

“They’ve not only kept the club running but have set it up for future success.”

With the new leadership team in place, Euroa Basketball is ready to take on new opportunities and challenges, and continues to embody the spirit of growth, inclusivity, and community that has always been at its core.

Here’s to the next chapter of Euroa Basketball, one that promises continued success and a vibrant future for all involved.

THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025 - Page 17

euroagazette.com.au

SPORT

Action-packed Auskick season starting 24 April

By DAN GODSMARK WITH Auskick kicking off in April, Euroa Auskick is urging all children, whether they are new to footy or have played before, to join in the fun.

The program is welcoming to kids of all skill levels and backgrounds, with a particular focus on encouraging new families in the district to get involved.

Auskick is a fantastic way for children to meet new friends, stay active, and be part of a supportive and inclusive community.

Euroa Auskick president Matt Ivill stresses that parents are always welcome to lend a hand, regardless of their football knowledge.

The Auskick program is open to children aged five to 12 years old (as of 2025).

It is specifically designed to introduce young players to the game in a fun, safe, and supportive environment.

Whether your child is just starting out or has played before, the program is perfect for them to develop essential skills and have fun while doing so.

The 2025 Auskick season will commence on Wednes-

day, 24 April and run until Wednesday, 26 June.

During this time, children will participate in eight to 10 weekly sessions throughout Term 2, with additional special sessions planned for extra fun and excitement.

The primary focus of the Auskick program is to help children build confidence, teamwork, and a love for the game.

Players will learn the fundamentals of footy, including kicking, handballing, and marking, while also developing valuable life skills such as respect, inclusion, and perseverance.

Most importantly, the aim is for every child to enjoy their time, feel a sense of belonging, and leave each session with a smile.

This year’s Auskick program will feature a range of exciting activities.

In addition to regular training, there will be family fun days, themed dress-up sessions, and visits from local footy stars.

One of the most exciting aspects of the program is the chance for Auskick participants to play in front of a crowd at AFL games.

Selected kids will be invit-

GOOD CLEAN FUN: Auskick is for kids who are ready to have fun while learning footy skills. ed to play during half-time at senior matches, showcasing their skills and experiencing the thrill of the big stage.

A highlight of the previous season was the “Auskick Day,” where kids took to the field during half-time of a Euroa Senior football game.

It was a memorable expe-

SIGN UP TODAY: Don’t miss out, register now for a fun-filled Auskick season.

rience for all involved, with kids warming up in the changerooms and running onto the field under a guard of honour from the senior players.

The opportunity to play in front of a crowd is something the kids look forward to every year, and the club will be

looking to replicate the experience this season.

There are many ways for parents and community members to get involved in supporting the Auskick program.

Whether it is helping with coaching, assisting with setup and pack-down, manag-

ing registrations, or cheering from the sidelines, all forms of support are appreciated.

When kids register for Auskick, they will receive a special Auskick pack, including a footy, an Auskick top, a backpack, and other fun goodies, all tailored to their favourite AFL team.

Parents are advised to ensure kids wear comfortable clothing, runners or football boots, and bring a water bottle to every session.

All other equipment required for activities will be provided.

This year’s Auskick program promises to be inclusive, fun, and memorable.

Whether your child is trying footy for the first time or returning for another season, the program offers a welcoming and supportive environment for all.

With exciting games, special events, and a strong sense of community spirit, there is no better time to get involved.

For more information, parents are encouraged to contact Auskick President Matt Ivill on 0433 380 692.

The team is excited to see both new and familiar faces on the field this season.

STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS: Every year, Euroa CFA juniors compete fiercely against teams from across the state.

Euroa Juniors secure impressive results at State Championships ■ From back page

HYDRANT RACE: Molly Vanderschoor demonstrates her steady hand while working the hydrant during the event.

On Sunday morning, the team departed the Euroa Fire Station at 6.30am.

First up was the under 17 Hydrant Race, where Molly and Charlee built on their Saturday form to achieve personal bests.

Mid-morning saw Koby Mann lead the sprint down the Wet Track, connecting the length of hose to Charlee, while Macy and Molly worked the water to the branch and disk.

Euroa recorded a season-best time of 20.02 seconds.

The final run for the under 14 was the Wet

Hose, striking one disk twice.

Olivia Thomson and Mia Rieusset took on the challenge, spraying the disk one after the other to finish in 19.99 seconds - a fantastic effort.

It was a great weekend for all involved, with strong performances from Euroa’s young firefighters.

A special thank you to all the local spectators who travelled to support the team.

Coach Tegan Kubeil was extremely pleased with the results, noting that nearly everyone achieved their best times - a fantastic outcome for the squad.

Page 18 - THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025

euroagazette.com.au

SPORT

VIOLET TOWN SHARPENS THE SQUAD FOR SEASON 2025 ■ From back page

“However, if the opportunity arises to recruit during the season, we will certainly look at it.”

While pre-season has had a few players who have caught the eye, Gleeson says he is looking for strong performances on Saturdays to ‘do the talking’, and as the club transitions from preseason into the regular season, talk also turns to leadership.

“Ryan Jennings will captain the club again, and we’re currently putting together a leadership group, which is being driven by a player vote.”

The first-round game is away against Nagambie on Saturday, 5 April and will certainly prove tough.

“Yep, what a challenge first up, but I know the boys are looking forward to it, as am I. “We know the quality Nagambie has at their disposal, but I’m certainly instilling belief in the boys that if we bring our best - based on the glimpses we’ve seen through the preseason - we will give ourselves every chance of winning.”

Although Violet Town will go into the season opener with two or three players unavailable for different reasons, Gleeson said the focus was on the work being done at the contest and building a game plan around that.

“From a defensive point of view, we’ll keep things pretty simple;

we’re aiming to control the footy a lot more so we’re not constantly defending.”

Talking about the culture of the club, Brad has certainly enjoyed the year so far.

“It’s been great - there’s a real passion from the group to be more competitive this year, there’s fantastic interaction within the squad, despite it being a new group of players, and the young blokes are keeping the older players motivated.

“Which is all great to see.”

With the first round fast approaching, there is plenty of excitement with the resumption of football and netball across all clubs.

LOCKING IT IN: The Towners focus on controlling the play as they gear up for the 2025 season.

PHOTOS: Dale Mann

John Gilbert’s near holein-one on the wrong green NAGAMBIE GOLF CLUB

By DAVID LOVE THE RSL fundraising golf day held at Nagambie Golf Club was as popular as ever, with the local branch of the RSL providing a fantastic lunch for all golfers.

Adding plenty of excitement were the spinning wheels and raffles, spun and won throughout the day.

The weather conditions were perfect, with the sun shining all day and temperatures ideal for a round of golf.

The winner of the men’s event was Tim Baldwin, needing only 38 Stableford points to claim victory.

Baldwin drove the ball long and accurately throughout his round, which was the main contributing factor to his win.

It was a three-way tie at the top, with a countback required to separate the leading trio.

New playing member Scott Berger utilised his handicap to finish runnerup on 38 points, while Wayne Le Cerf, executing some good golf and marking a return to form, was unlucky to place third.

The nearest-the-pin prizes went to Steve Donovan of Avenel with a mighty fine strike to the third, Chris Roberts with a well-placed shot onto the eighth, Jim Doyle finding some luck at the 13th, and Graeme Cusack coming oh so close to an ace on the 16th.

In the women’s division, Deb Ringin was a runaway winner, claiming her second RSL day honours in three years.

Her 35 Stableford points secured victory by five points.

Runner-up was Karyn Thompson, producing a tidy 30 points.

The only nearest-the-pin achievement among the women went to Irene Keogh, who stuck it close at the eighth.

Next week’s golf at Nagambie will be a stroke event with an 8-8.30am hit off.

J. Ezard will be on office duty, while B. Leviston will tend the bar.

STRATHBOGIE GOLF CLUB

By KRISTEN MOORE SATURDAY’S Stableford competition saw much cooler conditions, with welcome rain during the week helping to slow down the course after several weeks of fast-running fairways.

Nathan Macauley claimed victory in the men’s competition with 39 points, while Carmel Linehan topped the women’s field with 36 points.

Line-ball winners included David Kennett (39), John Moore (37), Chris Bennett (37), Mick Dixey (36), and Peter Smith (35).

Nearest-the-pin winners were Shae Van der Schoor on the fourth, Adam Draper (UK) on the eighth, Shae Van der Schoor again on the 15th, and Chris Bennett on the 17th. Shae Van der Schoor also took out the men’s driveand-pitch event, while Victoria Fry secured the women’s drive-and-pitch.

Kevin Chenhall claimed the straightest drive.

Allan Rowarth is on duty next week.

A reminder that our first monthly dinner will be held on Friday, 29 March.

Please book in with Kristen on 0408 577 784.

Sunday marked the beginning of our pennant season, with the team travelling to Whittlesea to take on Marysville.

Despite a competitive effort, Strathbogie fell short, losing 3-2.

John Moore won his match 3-1, Nathan Macauley secured victory on the 19th hole, Barney Robertson lost one down, Phil Raftery lost 2-1, and Aaron Hinss was defeated 4-3.

Next week, the team will head to Alexandra for their next match.

EUROA GOLF CLUB

By RICHARD JOHNSON

A TOTAL of 35mm of rain, combined with the club’s irrigation system, produced lush green fairways for weekend golfers at Euroa Golf Club.

Friday’s Twilight event saw 26 players take to the course, with Bill Eddy claiming top honours with 20 points.

Emily Flavel continued to improve her handicap, scoring 19, while Melissa Eddy, Richard Eddy, and Scott Watson all had tidy rounds of 18 points.

With only two more weeks of daylight saving left, Twilight players are making the most of this fun nine-hole Friday event.

Saturday provided lovely autumn conditions for the 26 players who teed

off in the game they love to hate - par.

Dale McIntosh had a standout round, carding plus four from his handicap of 10 to win the event, sponsored by Ford McKernan Engineering.

Up-and-coming junior member Jackson Walker finished runner-up on plus three, alongside Bill Wright, while Mick Anderson recorded plus two and Paddy McCarthy finished square.

Despite the perfect golfing conditions, many of the field found it tough going, with several scoring minus four or worse.

Bill Wright and Ross Wishart dominated the nearest-the-pin and driveand-pitch prizes, while seven players managed to shoot two-ball birdies.

Ross Wishart also secured nearest the pin on the 18th with a very close shot.

John Gilbert almost had a hole-inone when his tee shot from the 18th tee landed in the hole - unfortunately, it was on the 17th green.

Sunday saw the club host the first round of restricted-handicap pennant, while the division one team travelled to Macedon.

The restricted-handicap team won 3-2, while division one went down 2-3 to Hidden Valley.

Tickets are still available for the trivia night on Thursday, 4 April.

Meanwhile, tickets for the Eagles to Birdies major fundraiser - offering multiple chances for big cash prizes - are selling fast and can be purchased from the club or members.

EUROA LADIES GOLF

By DEBRA COX WEDNESDAY’S competition was Stableford, with 14 women playing 18 holes.

Not sure what has happened to our nine-hole players, but hopefully they will return soon.

Levenia Redfern won the day with 34 points, closely followed by Judy McLean on 33, while Sarah Bullen and Gail Allen both finished on 32.

A close contest - perhaps not our best, but nevertheless competitive.

Nearest the pin went to Mandy Edwards on the eighth, Susan Harding on the 12th, and Sarah Bullen on the 18th.

Drive-and-pitch winners were Jenny Thompson on the 5th and Gail Allen on the 15th.

Saturday’s event was a Par round, with 13 women participating.

Achieving a score in Par can be challenging, and Saturday’s results reflected that.

Emily Flavel led the field with a score of square - an impressive effort, particularly given her single-digit handicap.

Freda Edwards finished on minus two, with Kae Lummas on minus three.

Emily also claimed nearest the pin on the eighth and 18th, while the club retained the 12th.

Drive-and-pitch winners were Melissa Eddy on the fifth and Grace Eddy on the 15th.

Next Wednesday and Saturday will both be Stableford.

ROUND RESULTS U14 Boys

39

def by

Diamond Valley 3 69

U14 Girls

45

def

Macedon Rangers 21

U16 Boys 1 43

def by

Ballarat 54

U16 Boys 2 47

def

Westgate 3 42

(Top Scorers: J. Key 11, J. Quarrell 8, X. Van Schaik 7 )

(Top Scorers: P. Gridley 17, L. Dunlop 12, Q. Saltmarsh 6) (Top Scorers: S. Lupo 13, H. Kain 12, P. Whitehead 8)

U16 Girls

27

def by

Kilsyth 3 33

U18 Boys 1 60

def

Nunawading 2 52

U18 Boys 2 50

def by

Coburg 3 54

(Top Scorers: J.Herman 6, E. O’Neill 6, H. Reid 4) (Top Scorers: J. Hutson 17, S. Kain 10, L. Cashman 8)

(Top Scorers: A. Morris 14, R. Casanova 10, J. Walker 8)

(Top Scorers: C. Keatch 10, O. McGahan 10, R. Grant 9)

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

2025 sees seven NEB junior boys and girls teams compete in the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL), the highest level of junior competition in Victoria.

BUSINESS

euroagazette.com.au

Footy

AFL

Port Adelaide Western Bulldogs Gold Coast St Kilda Brisbane Lions Hawthorn Adelaide Fremantle

Essendon Carlton Melbourne St Kilda Geelong Hawthorn Adelaide Fremantle

TIPSTER

Bill OBrien

TIPSTER

Annabelle Cleeland

THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025 - Page 19

20 TIPPING 25 Port Adelaide Western Bulldogs Gold Coast St Kilda Brisbane Lions Hawthorn Adelaide Fremantle

TIPSTER

THURSDAY MAR 27 Essendon vs. Port Adelaide (Marvel Stadium)

FRIDAY MAR 28

PACK & STOWE

ANNABELLE CLEELAND MP

MURPHY’S MOTORS AND TYRES

0438 010 974 12-14 Hay St Euroa

5762 1600 25 Bridge St, Benalla Member for Euroa

5795 2702 1 Tarcombe St Euroa

www.packandstowe.com.au

www.annabellecleeland.com.au

www.murphysmotors.repcoservice.net

Last week: 5

TOTAL: 15

Port Adelaide Carlton Gold Coast St Kilda Brisbane Lions Hawthorn Adelaide Fremantle

Last week: 5

TOTAL: 13

Port Adelaide Carlton Gold Coast St Kilda Brisbane Lions Hawthorn Adelaide Fremantle

Last week: 5

Carlton vs. Western Bulldogs

Damien Murphy

(Marvel Stadium)

SATURDAY MAR 29 Melbourne vs. Gold Coast (M.C.G.)

St Kilda vs. Richmond

TOTAL: 13

Port Adelaide Carlton Melbourne St Kilda Brisbane Lions Greater Western Sydney Adelaide Fremantle

(Marvel Stadium)

Hawthorn vs. Greater Western Sydney (University of Tasmania Stadium)

Brisbane Lions vs. Geelong (The Gabba)

TIPSTER

Jacqui Thomson

TIPSTER

Glen Burton

TIPSTER

Andy Wilson

CHOICES FLOORING BY THOMSONS

BURTONS IGA+ LIQUOR

THE EUROA GAZETTE

5795 1221 80 Binney St Euroa

5795 2004 75 Binney St Euroa

5795 3041 45-47 Railway St Euroa

www.choicesflooring.com.au

Last week: 5

TOTAL: 13

Port Adelaide Carlton Melbourne St Kilda Brisbane Lions Hawthorn Adelaide Fremantle

Last week: 4

www.iga.com.au/burtons

TOTAL: 13

Essendon Carlton Melbourne Richmond Geelong Greater Western Sydney North Melbourne Fremantle

TIPSTER

Kelly Hill

Last week: 3

Shane Thomson

TIPSTER

Adelaide vs. North Melbourne (Adelaide Oval)

West Coast vs. Fremantle

www.nemedia.com.au

(Optus Stadium)

TOTAL: 10

Port Adelaide Western Bulldogs Gold Coast Richmond Brisbane Lions Hawthorn Adelaide West Coast

TIPSTER

SUNDAY MAR 30

Port Adelaide Western Bulldogs Gold Coast St Kilda Brisbane Lions Hawthorn Adelaide Fremantle

Noel OMeara

TIPSTER

Travis Mee

ENRICH OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

RAY WHITE REAL ESTATE

NOEL G. O’MEARA & ASSOCIATES

EUROA BUS LINES

0419 352 574 PO Box 313 Euroa

0438 148 181 65 Binney St Euroa

(03) 5795 2783 2 Binney Street Euroa PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

5762 6566 8 Nunn St, Benalla

Last week: 5

TOTAL: 12

Last week: 5

www.raywhite.com

TOTAL: 12

LEADERBOARD AFL LADDER After ROUND 01

Bill OBrien ........................................................15 Annabelle Cleeland......................................13 Damien Murphy.............................................13 Jacqui Thomson ............................................13 Glen Burton .....................................................13 Andy Wilson ....................................................10 Kelly Hill ............................................................12 Shane Thomson ...........................................12 Noel OMeara................................................... 11 Travis Mee .........................................................9

Last week: 5

TOTAL: 11

www.benallabuslines.com.au

Last week: 4

TOTAL: 9

Collingwood .............................8 8 St Kilda ........................................4 Brisbane Lions ........................8 Richmond ..................................4 After Gold Coast ................................4 Carlton.........................................0 Geelong.......................................4 Melbourne .................................0 Nth Melbourne .......................4 Hawthorn................................ 12 W Bulldogs ................................4 Essendon ...................................0 Adelaide......................................8 Sydney.........................................4 Fremantle ..................................0 GWS Giants ..............................8 Port Adelaide ...........................4 West Coast ...............................0

ROUND 02

Murphy’s Motors and Tyres • New Car Servicing

• Independently Owned

• Nationwide Warranty

• General Repairs & Servicing

• Professional Service

• Radiators & Cooling System

• Towing Service

• Pre-Purchase Inspections

• Brake & Clutch

• Steering & Suspension v/89d00043/3516

1 Tarcombe Street, Euroa | P: 03 5795 2702 | www.murphysmotors.repcoservice.net

Trust, Experience & Knowledge

Page 20 - THE GAZETTE, Wednesday, March 26, 2025

euroagazette.com.au

EUROA TENNIS CLUB CROWNS 2025 CHAMPIONS

Page 16

Euroa Juniors impress at CFA championships

By TYSON THOMSON THE Euroa Junior CFA Running Team competed against more than 50 teams from across Victoria over two full days in Mooroopna at the 2025 CFA State Firefighter Championships.

In the lead-up, the team participated in regional competitions in Echuca and Bendigo.

The under 14s and under 17s have been training twice weekly since October at Lions Park, Euroa.

The weekend featured 11 events on Saturday and seven on Sunday.

As part of the traditional opening parade, all teams marched up the track, with Euroa’s own Mia Rieusset leading the national anthem in front of a large crowd.

The first event on the main track was the under 14 hydrant race.

Macy Kubeil was ninth off the mark, while Mia Rieusset ran 42nd.

Both girls delivered outstanding performances, achieving their personal bests for the season.

Meanwhile, on the marshalling track the Mann brothers competed in the “Y” Coupling event.

Koby was responsible for connecting the coupling, while his younger brother Will managed the hydrant.

The brothers finished with an impressive time of 18.67 seconds, securing a top 10 placement.

Back on the main wet track, the under 14s competed in the Wet Hose event, striking the second disk.

Will Brittain (hydrant/branch), Benji Mann (coupling), and Olivia Thomson and Mia Rieusset (connecting water) executed a wellcoordinated run, finishing in the top 10.

Events six and eight, the OnePerson Marshall event, were held on the marshalling track.

Will Brittain (under 14) delivered a solid hydrant set and a smooth overall performance, finishing with

TEAMWORK: Olivia Thomson and Mia Rieusset partner up, aiming to hit the disk and finish the race. a time of 48.39 seconds.

After lunch, Charlee Rieusset (under 17) followed with an excellent hydrant set, textbook hose connections, and perfect branch work.

She recorded a personal best of 37.08 seconds, finishing sixth overall and the fastest girl of the day.

Next up was the under 17s’ first wet event on the main track - the under 17 Wet Hose (two competitors).

Euroa faced arch-rivals Melton, with Molly Vanderschoor setting

NORTH EASTERN COUNTRY REAL ESTATE EASY CARE 2BR - 2½ Y.O. HOME ON 600M2 BLOCK IN APPEALING SETTINGS. “WHEN YOU ENTER THIS

the hydrant before sprinting to connect the branch, while Charlee managed the water.

The girls performed well but were narrowly beaten by Melton.

Despite the loss, Euroa advanced to the final as one of the fastest runners-up.

In the final, they improved on their heat time, clocking 13.69 seconds.

The last event of the day was the under 14 Wet Hose (two competitors), featuring Will

136 ACRES - 2 TITLES

ON LARGE BLOCK 1150M2

$465,000.00

QUALITY BUILT

$1,080,000.00

$405,000.00

MAIN OFFICE 86 Binney St, Euroa Ph Geoff 0417 101 108

50 RAMAGE ROAD

OFFERS SO MUCH! • Wonderfully maintained 3BR BV. Home with separate sleep out.

• Includes 7m x 6.5 D/Garage (often used for entertaining) • 2 well kept bathrooms (one with bath), showers in both. Separate storage room could be an office.

• Quality 22m x 9m workshop - garage, concrete floor power - lighting - water connected (secure).

• Also 3 other sheds for hay and machinery.

• Property in 4 paddocks - 4 dams. Some clover pastures.

• Rainwater to home is a feature including 2x 110,000 litre steel tanks plus others.

• Bore water to garden • 2/3 grazing with attractive red gums along 1 MILE seasonal creek • Only 2 kms to town centre • Rainfall for area, approx 600mm (24 inches) annually

VERY DRIVABLE

WITH the 2025 football season fast approaching, Violet Town’s new senior coach Brad Gleeson provides insight into how the squad is shaping up ahead of the first round.

“It’s been good, we’ve probably had periods where we would’ve hoped for more numbers at training, but I think we’ve averaged around 18–20 most nights,” Gleeson said.

“We’ve definitely seen improvement from back in November until now, and that’s the trajectory we’re looking for.

“Hopefully, that sets us up to be more competitive week in, week out during the season.”

Preparation has been underway with a couple of months of preseason training and several practice matches under the teams’ belts.

“We’ve had two hit-outs so far; we played Moyhu on a Thursday night, and last Saturday we hosted Yea FC at Violet Town.

“Both games were played in 35-degree heat, so they were very taxing.”

Gleeson feels like Violet Town has built some continuity within the group, given there’s been a big changeover in playing personnel, and while the building blocks are in place, the rookie coach says it is going to take time to mold the group and adapt to change.

A pre-Christmas recruiting spree set up the club for 2025, and a combination of experienced players and youth will see an improvement in the squad.

“No, we haven’t added anyone new since our pre-Christmas announcements,” Gleeson said.

“We’re pretty happy with what we’ve recruited; we’re trying to find a balance where we don’t have a complete overhaul of the playing group.

■ Continued page 18

THIS SAT 29 MARCH - 10.30-11.30 1 PRIMROSE ST, VIOLET TOWN

(QUALITY IMPROVEMENTS)

VERY EASY CARE

By DAN GODSMARK

OPEN TO INSPECT

VIOLET TOWN DISTRICT

HOME YOU WILL BE IMPRESSED!

4A LILAC ST, VIOLET

Mann and Macy Kubeil.

Euroa comfortably won their heat against Swan Hill.

In the final, they recorded an impressive time of 12.45 seconds, which initially placed them second.

However, Kyneton matched their time, leading to a runoff.

In a nail-biting finish, Kyneton edged out Euroa by just 0.05 seconds, leaving Euroa in third place - an incredible achievement as the third-fastest team in the state.

■ Continued page 17

Violet Town sharpens the squad for season 2025

(03) 5795 1444

www.realestate.com.au

/

geoffnecr1@gmail.com