Euroa Gazette 280224

SLICING HIS WAY TO FINALS

PHOTO: Dale Mann

A unanimous vote

116 Euroa Health members vote in favour of the GV Health partial takeover p

SOME 116 Euroa Health members voted unanimously on Thursday evening in favour of a proposal to see the operation of Euroa Health’s acute, urgent and imaging hospital services taken over by Goulburn Valley Health.

Members applauded following the unanimous decision at a specially convened meeting at the Euroa Community Cinema, after the proposal had previously been endorsed by the boards of Euroa Health

BY DARREN CHAITMAN dchaitman@ nemedia.com.au

and GV Health. Final approval is now required from Victorian Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas, with Euroa Health and GV Health aiming to implement the change by July 1.

“It’s another layer of approval – however, [the State Government] have been well informed and part of the

process to get to this state,” Euroa Health CEO Melissa Seymour said.

“So, we’re pretty confident, but we do still need to wait for that approval.”

Euroa Health chair Linsey Siede said The Department of Health had part of the steering group that arrived at the decision.

“So, they’re aware of the process, they’re aware of the proposal – they were waiting for today until our membership approved it,” he said.

The Health Minister’s office said following the members’ vote, a final decision will be made in due course.

The development comes after Mr Siede and past CEO Cherree Hunter campaigned in 2022 for the hospital to receive government funding, as declining revenues threatened the viability of Euroa Health’s acute, urgent and imaging hospital services.

A steering committee with representatives from Euroa

Health and GV Health, and consultants KPMG and Six O’Clock Advisory, arrived at the proposed new model after it was convened in mid-2023 to consider new operating models for Euroa Health.

“I’m feeling that the community understands what the proposal is all about in guaranteeing that we have a community public hospital in Euroa… and that’s why they voted accordingly,” Mr Siede said.

■ Continued page 2

DUBLIN Anderson shows determination in the heat of the finals battle as the Euroa Lawn tennis team prepares to take on the formidable St Pauls in the Benalla Tennis Association competition. Story and more photos on back page.

Council engages arborists to carve animal homes in dead trees

WHAT happens to the trees in Strathbogie Shire that have reached their end of life?

According to a new council media release, council engages qualified arborists to determine if a dead tree is still structurally sound and therefore suitable for development into a

standing habitat with hollows carved in for bats and birds.

Natural hollows in trees, especially River Red Gums, can take centuries to form.

This means that safe nesting spaces have become fewer and further between as humans have continued to move into the land.

By creating artificial hollows in suitable trees, council’s arborists can replace some of this lost habitat.

Strathbogie Shire Council interim administrator Peter Stephenson said the initiative was a win-win.

“We know trees do not live forever, and what better way to give them a

new lease on life than by becoming a home for our native wildlife,” he said.

“The qualified arborists who assess the trees also ensure the hollows are being well utilised once established by monitoring the sites.

“Strathbogie Shire has a relatively large established tree population and our

arborists have determined that is well-suited to carved habitat hollows.”

As an added bonus, council said it is planting over 200 trees in 2024.

This will help cool the shire’s urban areas and provide more habitat for local animals.

Trees play a vitally important role in providing

oxygen, sequestering carbon and cooling the climate.

They also provide food and homes for wildlife that are also a vital part of the ecosystem.

Planting trees and making more spaces for little critters to nest and be safe contributes to the health of the planet.

Euroa Croquet Club welcomes three international stars

By BERNICE MCKINN

THREE young Argentinians, currently working at Blue Gum Farm, regularly enjoy a game of croquet followed by our social get-together on Friday evenings.

So many young people in Argentina play croquet and having Matt, Valentina and Manny play with the local club members has been fun for everyone.

We are also delighted to finally be back in our clubrooms after 18 months of making do with temporary facilities provided by club members.

Despite this inconvenience, the club has attracted new members, won the

Goulburn Valley Golf Croquet Pennant competition in 2023 and hosted school PE classes from Euroa Secondary College.

We are looking forward to the year ahead with more social days, club championships and, of course, continuing our fun Friday evenings where we welcome all from the community to join in.

If you are interested in trying your hand at croquet, come along on a Wednesday morning or a Friday evening and have a go.

For further information regarding membership or getting involved, please contact Bernice McKinn on bmckinn52@gmail.com.

116 members vote in favour of partial takeover

■ From page 1 “It has been a two-year process that we’ve gone through and it’s really, really good to get to this point and have the community vote unanimously.”

The two hospitals are now turning their attention towards a successful transition.

March

“I think it’s really important that we take the time now to carefully plan what the implementation phase is going to look like – July 1 is not that far away,” GV Health CEO Matt Sharp said.

“What’s going to be absolutely essential is how GV health works with the current Euroa Health staff, who would potentially transition subject to government approval… and we’ve got to work hard to make sure that we get that transition right and support the staff through this this period.”

Mr Siede said the timing of the government’s approval would not delay the transition and planning work, noting Euroa Health had already begun pre-planning in anticipation of the successful members’ vote.

Ms Seymour was emphatic in stating there would be no staff redundancies at Euroa Health, saying she expects more staff would be recruited over time as services expand.

Under the proposal, Euroa Health’s other services, including the GraniteHill aged care facility and community services, will continue to be operated by Euroa Health.

Euroa Health’s community services include allied health services to community members in their homes, the operation of the facility’s gym, and bus tours for community members to Violet Town.

The Bowerbird Op Shop would also continue to be owned and operated by Euroa Health, and would raise funds for GraniteHill.

Following the members’ vote on Thursday evening, the mood was upbeat as Euroa Health members streamed out of the Euroa Community Cinema.

Member Bill Sargood said “I think it’s a

Established in 1927, Euroa Health is one of Victoria’s few remaining communityowned bush nursing hospitals.

INTERNATIONAL STARS: Argentinian croquet stars Matt, Valentina, Manny, with club treasurer Libby Woodhouse.

good thing for the future of the town”, while member Mick Dixey called it an “excellent result”.

IN FAVOUR OF PROPOSAL: Euroa Health members Heather Gilbert (left) and John Gilbert were among 116 members to unanimously vote for the proposal.

MEMBERS PLEASED: Euroa Health members Janet Fogarty (left) and Jill Davidson were among 116 members to unanimously vote for the proposal.

TEAMWORK: Euroa Health CEO Melissa Seymour, Euroa Health chair Linsey Siede and GV Health CEO Matt Sharp.

PHOTOS: Darren Chaitman

Last chance granted for $500,000 truck wash project

Final tender request could save years-long effort to rebuild truck wash qyg

By DARREN CHAITMAN

A YEARS-LONG attempt to build a game-changing $500,000 truck wash in Euroa almost came to a disappointing end at last week’s council meeting, before a plea from farmer Richard McGeehan saw council agree to a last-ditch attempt to save the project.

Council officers had recommended finally axing the plans for an upgraded Euroa Saleyards truck wash and returning the $500,000 borrowed for the project, after three tender requests, the first of which went out in November 2020, failed to draw tenders within the half-a-milliondollar budget.

But Mr McGeehan, a member of council’s Saleyards Committee, requested during last week’s meeting that council give it one last shot.

“The Saleyards Committee… have identified a local contractor who failed to bid in those first three rounds,” he said at the meeting.

“He didn’t put in a submission, I don’t think he knew about it.

“Following discussions with said contractor, we now request council consider one more procurement process before paying back the loan.

“And [the contractor is] now looking at a figure in that $500,000 category.

“So, I’m here actually to say to council, if you give us this stay of execution, we might be able to build this truck wash and save you a half-a-million dollars.”

The farmer’s last-minute plea paid off, with administrator Peter Stephenson agreeing to his request.

“I did meet with a delegation of the [Saleyards] Committee … and they did make a really good case about the need for the truck wash,” Mr Stephenson said.

“So, if we can get a truck wash of this like within the budgetary constraints and within all the processes that are in place, then that would be a good thing.”

He stressed that every procurement undertaken by council needed to be “squeaky clean” and “absolutely to the letter”, echoing comments made by Mr McGeehan.

Mr Stephenson resolved council would undertake the “final” open tender process and receive a report at its April council meeting.

Russell Mawson, another member of the Saleyards Committee, told The Euroa Gazette in

July 2023 the proposed new truck wash would be drive-through and double bay.

He explained users of the current truck wash spend a “long, long time” backing their trucks in, but the process will be significantly sped up by allowing trucks to drive through and for two trucks to be parked beside one another.

Committee members expect a state-of-the-art truck wash in Euroa will attract more livestock carriers, who increasingly need to wash down their trucks to meet biosecurity requirements.

Council has already spent $103,000 of federal grant funding on the project, with $32,000 spent on pumps and a storage tank, $40,150 spent on works to clear the site (including removal of trees and concrete), and more funds spent on designs and tender requests.

Council allocated $165,000 to the project after receiving funding from the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Program in 2020.

However, council has confirmed that after the project’s third unsuccessful tender request, $62,000 of the allocated grant funding was reallocated to other projects in council’s drought program, as the Federal Government’s deadline to acquit the funding was February 2024.

Asked by this masthead about the reallocated grant funding, Mr McGeehan said: “That’s a discussion for another day… We’re just happy that they’re willing to proceed with it.”

He said he had submitted his plea for another tender process as a question for the council meeting’s public question time, but he then received a phone call from CEO Julie Salomon’s executive assistant, requesting

Come along to Clean Up Australia Day event this Sunday

THE Euroa Community Action Group (ECAG) will be hosting a Clean Up Australia Day this Sunday.

Interested people are invited to gather at Euroa’s Yiiro Community Garden on March 3 at 10am.

The Yiiro Community Garden is at 16A Bury Street.

Attendees will split up in groups to clean up parts of Euroa including along the creek, around the schools, near Travellers Rest, along Kirkland Avenue and other areas.

Sign up to attend online at https:// register.cleanup.org.au/fundraisers/ ECAG/yiiro-community-garden.

he instead make a presentation during the meeting.

“I saw Julie [Salomon] the next day [after the meeting], she’s getting a coffee, and I said, ‘well done, Julie, congratulations –there’s good news going around town at the moment about the Shire of Strathbogie’,” Mr McGeehan said.

“I said, ‘you’ve got a great engineer, keep him, and [your executive assistant] is fantastic’.

“And I said, ‘and I want to thank you, too, because you were obviously part of the deal’.

“You know, when you’re on a winner, you say good things to people.”

A tender request for the truck wash project appeared in The Age newspaper on Saturday.

Shire to share in $21m for storm clean-up

THE federal and state governments will jointly provide $21 million to support immediate and long-term recovery following the storms and floods which commenced on December 24, 2023 through to mid-January 2024.

Strathbogie Shire is one of 29 local government areas where support will be available.

The assistance is being provided through the jointly-funded

Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

The funding package includes:  A $13.1 million Clean-up Program to deliver all-hazards assessments, conduct make-safe and demolition works for impacted and uninsured residents, as well as support for the removal of flood debris – coordinated by Emergency Recovery Victoria.

 A $8 million Council Support Fund to support impacted councils to clean-up and restore community assets, facilities and services – as well as make repairs to infrastructure like walking trails, playgrounds and sporting fields.

For more information on recovery support visit the Emergency Recovery Victoria website at vic.gov.au/2023-24-victorian-

storms-and-floods

The Federal Government is working closely with their state counterparts to deliver clean

recovery assistance

impacted areas, according to a statement attributed to Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt.

Rainfall (Euroa Township)

Euroa had nil rain recorded for the week until 10am Monday, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

COUNCIL CHATS: Strathbogie Shire Council interim administrator Peter Stephenson and CEO Julie Salomon at last week’s council meeting.

TRUCK WASH BELIEVER: A plea from farmer Richard McGeehan saw council agree to continue a years-long effort to build a game-changing $500,000 truck wash. PHOTOS: Darren Chaitman

Strathbogie Shire Community Information

Have your say on Euroa’s Bicentennial Park Play Space upgrades

Euroa’s Bicentennial Park is getting an upgrade and Council is calling on the community to have their say on a preferred play structure. The park upgrade also includes a bike track where children can safely learn to ride their bikes and scooters. Visit https://share.strathbogie.vic. gov.au/euroa-bicentennial-park to have your say on your preferred play structure for the park! Feedback closes at 5pm on Tuesday 19 March, 2024.

Talk to the Administrator sessions Council is running a series of sessions throughout the municipality giving residents the chance to book in a timeslot to meet with the Administrator Peter Stephenson. Bookings for these sessions are essential to ensure you secure your one-on-one 15-minute timeslot.

Bookings for each session can be made via the following links:

BOOKED OUT: Nagambie and Graytown residents, Tuesday 12 March, 4.30-6.30pm at Nagambie Lakes Regatta Centre: https://events.humanitix.com/nagambieand-graytown-talk-to-the-administrator

Strathbogie residents, Tuesday 26 March, 4.30-6.30pm at Strathbogie Memorial Hall: https://events.humanitix.com/ strathbogie-talk-to-the-administrator

Ruffy residents, Tuesday April 9, 4.306.30pm at Tablelands Community Centre: https://events.humanitix.com/ ruffy-talk-to-the-administrator

Violet Town residents, Tuesday 23 April, 4.30-6.30pm at Violet Town Community Complex: https://events.humanitix.com/ violet-town-talk-to-the-administrator

Customer Satisfaction Survey

currently taking place

From 29 January through to mid-March

Shire residents may receive a phone call from an independent market research agency called National Field Services.

We have commissioned them to conduct a community satisfaction survey on behalf of Council — these surveys are being undertaken across Victorian councils.

The survey is designed to assess our performance and to identify ways to improve our service delivery. Around 400 interviews will be conducted among a representative sample of Strathbogie Shire residents.

We appreciate you taking the time to assist us with your valuable feedback. Please be assured your details and individual responses are confidential. Only the overall results are shared with the Council.

If you have any questions, contact the Customer Service team on 1800 065 993.

Road Closures for Road Rehabilitation Works

Council advises that there will be considerable road resealing taking place on Shire roads throughout March and April. There will be some changed traffic conditions including road closures. We request all road users be aware of the changed conditions and follow the signs in place for detours. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by these works.

Construction work on Weir Road/ Reedy Lake Road

Please be advised construction work on Weir Road/Reedy Lake Road has commenced. During this time traffic flow will be managed by traffic controllers and appropriate signage as applicable. Council apologies for any inconvenience caused, and anticipates that works will be completed by June 2024, weather permitting.

If you have any questions, please contact Council’s Project Team on 1800 065 993.

Avenel Township Strategy refresh Submissions close at 5pm this Friday 1

March, 2024 on the Draft Avenel Township Strategy. Have your say about the updated strategy which has been designed to meet Avenel’s residential growth.

To have your say, visit https:// share.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/ updating-avenel-2030-strategy

LEAP fridge magnets on their way

Residents in Euroa and Avenel can expect to find their emergency management fridge magnets in their mailboxes soon. This magnet is to assist in case of emergency and has been designed by Euroa and Avenel’s Local Emergency Action Plan (LEAP) steering groups.

The LEAPing into Resilience project is a joint initiative between Mansfield, Strathbogie and Murrindindi Shire Councils, funded by the Australian Government. Work with us

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

Administration OfficerOperations.

Casual. Band 4 + 11% super. Applications close 9am, Monday 4 March 2024.

Climate Change Education Officer.

Full time or Part Time permanent –Band 6 & 11% super. Applications close 9am Tuesday 12 March 2024. Visit www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au for further details and instructions on how to apply.

Strathbogie Shire Council is an equal opportunity employer and a Child Safe organisation. We value diversity in our workplace and will consider flexible working arrangements.

Tenders now open

The following tenders are now open at Strathbogie

Shire Council:

Euroa Railway Precinct Masterplan (contract number 22/23-68).

Council is seeking quotations from suitably qualified and experienced consultants for the development of a Euroa Railway Precinct Masterplan to be developed with significant community engagement and consultation. EXTENDED

TENDER TIME FRAME - NEW CLOSING DATE 4pm Wednesday 28 February 2024 as per Addendum 1.

Municipal Stormwater Strategy (contract number 23/24-45).

Council is seeking quotations from suitably qualified and experienced consultants for the development of a Municipal Stormwater Strategy. Quotations received until 4pm Wednesday 28 February, 2024.

Construction of Avenel Entry Signage (contract Number 23/24-46).

Council is seeking suitably experience

Contractor to construct Avenel Entry sign. Quotations received until 4pm ADST Thursday 14 March 2024.

Construction of Truck Wash, including Kerb & Channel and Associated Works at Boundary Road North, Euroa (contract number 23/24-50).

Council seeks tender submission from suitably experienced and qualified contracts to undertake Construction of Truck Wash, including Kerb & Channel and Associated Works at Boundary Road North, Euroa. Tenders received until 4pm ADST Thursday 21 March 2024.

Construction of Strathbogie Shire Streetscape (contract number 23/24-47).

Council seeks tender submission from suitably experienced and qualified contracts to undertake Construction of Strathbogie Shire Streetscape.

Tenders received until 4pm ADST Monday 26 March 2024.

Tenders may only be viewed and lodged online through the Tendersearch portal accessible via our website www.strathbogie. vic.gov.au. Please note Strathbogie Shire no longer accepts hardcopy tenders or RFQs and will not accept tenders by fax or email.

1800 065 993 www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au info@strathbogie.vic.gov.au

Follow us for regular updates @strathbogieshire

Council spends $66,660 on “confidential” new laptops

By DARREN CHAITMAN

STRATHBOGIE

Shire

Council awarded a $66,660 contract for the supply of 30 new laptops, but the model of laptop is confidential, according to council.

The January contract was one of five awarded under delegation listed in last week’s council meeting agenda report.

This masthead reached out to council to ask the brand and model of laptop, as well as the cost per laptop, but was told this information is “commercial in confidence” in a response attributed to interim administrator Peter Stephenson.

The supplier of the laptops, Byte Managed IT Services, confirmed to this masthead it provides local councils with laptops.

This masthead was re-

UNKNOWN LAPTOPS: The brand and model of 30 laptops purchased by council is “confidential”.

ferred to a sales manager for further details, but was not able to speak to the sales manager by deadline.

Another contract awarded under delegation, to upgrade a bathroom at council’s Euroa office, cost $169,382.

This contract was $5920

over the limit allowed to be awarded under delegation and was done mistakenly, according to the meeting agenda report.

Mr Stephenson resolved to note the error and authorise the use of the additional $5920.

VIEW Club on the lookout for new members

EUROA’S Susanne Wright, president of Shepparton Day VIEW Club, said they are on the lookout for new members who want to give back to their community and make new connections with women in the area.

VIEW, which stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women, is a network of close to 300 clubs and over 14,000 women throughout Australia.

It provides a place for women to connect in the community, enjoy social activities, and develop lasting friendships – all while supporting the work of children’s education charity, The Smith Family.

Ms Wright said this year is the perfect time to join VIEW as social events are back on the calendar after being going into hiatus due to the pandemic.

“We have had so much fun organising upcoming events for our club this year, including a trip to Hobart for the National Convention,” she said.

“These always feature fabulous dinners and speakers, and are a great way to hear about how we help children

SUSANNE: Euroa’s Susanne Wright, president of Shepparton Day VIEW Club, said the club is on the lookout for new members who want to give back to their community and make new connections with women in the area.

and young people through The Smith Family.”

VIEW is the largest community sponsor of the charity’s Learning for Life program, which provides students with financial, educational and personal support.

“We have all been hit by the rising cost of living, be it power prices, food or petrol,” Ms Wright said.

“These rises have had an even greater impact on those already doing it tough.

“Parents shouldn’t have to choose between putting dinner on the table or buying their child a uniform for school.

“This is why it is so important that we can help children experiencing disadvantage with their education.”

Shepparton Day VIEW Club supports the education of 1700 students through the

Learning for Life program, ensuring they have what they need for the school year.

In addition to their ongoing support of The Smith Family, Shepparton Day VIEW Club hosts social events.

“We are always looking for women of all backgrounds and ages to join us and look forward to welcoming new faces at our next monthly meeting,” Ms Wright said. Anyone interested in becoming a member can call Ms Wright on 0409 331 930 or visit www.view.org.au for further information.

The next Shepparton Day VIEW Club meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 6 at 11am for an 11.30am start at The Peppermill, Shepparton.

There is a senior’s meal if you wish to purchase.

RSVP to Ms Wright.

PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

PHOTO: Karsten Madsen, Pexels

Win for EuroaConnect as council amends ARTC agreement

By DARREN CHAITMAN

COMMUNITY group EuroaConnect has scored another win after successfully urging Strathbogie Council to alter a council resolution in recognition of community concerns relating to ARTC Inland Rail’s future Euroa railway precinct development.

Before EuroaConnect’s intervention, council officers had recommended that council execute a written agreement between council and the ARTC which made reference to the contentious removal of the Euroa Goods Shed and other aspects of the precinct development that may be subject to change.

But following council’s receipt of a letter from a lawyer acting for EuroaConnect, interim administrator Peter Stephenson proposed and carried an amended motion which sought to strike references to the Euroa Goods Shed from the agreement, among other changes recognising concerns raised by the community group.

“This is one of the agenda items that has attracted some attention,” Mr Stephenson said at the meeting last week, shooting a glance at a dozenodd community members in

the council gallery.

These were members of EuroaConnect, as well as other community members supportive of EuroaConnect’s advocacy.

“This morning I received an email from a legal representative acting on behalf of EuroaConnect, expressing some concerns about the agreement and what it might lock us into,” Mr Stephenson continued.

The observers in the gallery knew this all too well: they held in their hands printed copies of the lawyer’s email, which had been sent to Mr Stephenson and council CEO Julie Salomon just before 9am that morning.

Council’s agenda report stated “provisions within the agreement allow for amendments to occur throughout the life of the agreement”, but lawyer Barnaby McIlrath of PE Lawyers disagreed, writing in his email the agreement “seeks to predetermine and lock in matters that are to be resolved through the precinct planning process”.

Acting pro-bono for EuroaConnect, Mr McIlrath outlined the group’s concerns with the agreement, and their belief that “the future of

AMENDED, CARRIED, RESOLVED: At last week’s council meeting, administrator Peter Stephenson resolved on a new motion that recognised concerns raised by EuroaConnect regarding the ARTC’s proposed station precinct development.

the Goods Shed remains to be determined” and “a generous underpass should connect directly to Binney Street”.

The letter prompted council to prepare an alternative motion.

“Now, while I don’t consider that it will lock us into anything… I have an alternate recommendation to the one that is in the agenda, and that is in some way to assuage the concerns of those who have contacted us thus far,” Mr Stephenson said.

The new recommendation, which he resolved on, authorised the removal of any reference to the Goods Shed until its heritage status is resolved, given that Heritage Victoria is considering the shed’s inclusion in the Victorian Heritage Register.

Among other changes, the resolution also authorised the date of execution to be “conditional upon the [CEO] being satisfied that there is sufficient opportunity to provide comment and feedback

on design solutions prior to council acceptance” and noted “the agreement does not preclude council from publicly supporting the broader community to ensure the best design outcome for the underpass option”.

EuroaConnect member and architect Kathi ClarkOrsanic said the amended motion was “definitely a good outcome”.

“Whilst it doesn’t talk about the pedestrian underpass or Klofty’s, it sort of in-

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Wednesday 6th March 2024

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timates that the community now has a say at least… and the question of the Goods Shed has been struck from the agreement, and that’s good as well,” she said.

The altered resolution is the latest instance of EuroaConnect achieving concrete results through its advocacy.

Not every EuroaConnect project has garnered unanimous support in the community, but even the group’s critics have expressed begrudging admiration of the group’s success in conversations with this masthead.

Most significantly, the group was instrumental in rallying the community to support an underpass (instead of a new overpass) to replace the Anderson Street Bridge, which eventually led ARTC Inland Rail to announce it would build an underpass.

“People say to me often, ‘gee, Euroa’s a great community’, and I kind of say, ‘yeah, it is, but you know why it is?’” EuroaConnect member Shirley Saywell said.

“It’s not just luck – it’s because people step up and go after stuff they want.

“That’s what makes a good community, and that’s what means you get results.”

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LATE NOVEMBER.

RIGGS CREEK PARK, RIGGS CREEK .............NUT

5 ANGUS X COWS WITH ANGUS X CAF 3-4 MTHS, REDEP TO ANGUS BULL

PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Ending animal cruelty in the North East

AS a team leader for RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate North East region, my team of five Inspectors and I share 32 years of experience investigating reports of animal cruelty at RSPCA.

Inspectors Kerrie, Rosie, Kyle, Nicole, Bree, and I respond to these cruelty reports from St Kilda’s beaches all the way up to Cobram and Corryong and everywhere in between.

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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

Out on the road, we’re seeing firsthand how the cost-of-living crisis is impacting pet owners.

We frequently encounter underweight animals who don’t have enough food and increasingly poor living conditions – due, in part, to situations with far too many animals from either overbreeding or hoarding, with owners unable to provide even basic care.

We’re also seeing people unable to provide crucial veterinary care and basic preventative medicines like flea and worming treatments, impacting animal welfare.

We’re extremely grateful to the community for their ongoing vigilance in reporting animal cruelty.

Over the last six months, we received 1040 reports and tip-offs about animal cruelty in the North-East and 228 animals were seized or surrendered into our care.

It’s estimated caring for these animals costs RSPCA Victoria at least $471,000.

Last financial year, 429 animals came into our care, and sadly, it seems we’re likely to repeat this total again by the end of June.

As we enter what is historically the busiest time of year, we urge everyone in the NorthEast to remain vigilant for animal cruelty in our area and to report it to RSPCA Victoria by calling (03) 9224 2222 or online at www. rspcavic.org/cruelty-report.

The community support we see every day keeps us going and makes each day just a little bit better.

At the end of the day, RSPCA Inspectors are here to ensure the welfare of animals throughout Victoria and we’ll continue to work with people to provide appropriate care for their animals.

Together, let’s end animal cruelty.

Michelle Green, RSPCA inspectorate team leader (North East region)

You never know who’s listening

WORKERS, who I strongly suspect are connected to the Inland Rail infrastructure project, need to watch what they say in public places.

Last week, whilst having dinner at a restaurant in Wangaratta, I overheard derogatory remarks about Euroa and in particular the Euroa Goods Shed, regarding the community wanting to save this 150-year-old building.

I believe the speaker thought we were stupid.

The comments were not appreciated by myself, I thought about making a comment to the speaker and others at the table, but did not want to create a scene in a public space, so I kept my mouth shut.

The volume of conversation was easily heard a few tables away.

In life, we all have differing opinions and we can learn and appreciate the opinions of others, if we take the time to listen.

Just remember that none of you live in Euroa and district, and also probably have no historical connection with the district (I do).

So, I ask you to consider and respect the opinions of others, and in particular the residents of this area of Victoria.

Helen Gilbert, Nagambie

Much-needed men’s barber keeps customers looking sharp

AT last, a man’s barber in Euroa.

The women’s hairdressers did a fine job, but they are trained in a different way of making ladies of all ages feel that time has not forgotten them.

Us blokes are different.

A short back and sides, or in my case, a number four.

Which means get rid of the scruffy look, and Alex might serve me another ale.

Ted More, Euroa

Concept drawing released for Euroa bike track

AN aerial concept map released by council shows a 170-metre-squared bike traffic school on an asphalt surface, which is set to be constructed at Bicentennial Park on Garrett Street in Euroa.

As reported last week in this masthead, Shepparton company Kialla Lawn and Garden will be paid $239,019 to construct a new play space and bike education

track by June 30, according to a council agenda report.

Aerial-view concept drawings since released show two different options for the new play space.

Council is now encouraging people to vote for their preferred option on its online platform, Share Strathbogie, at this link: https://share.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/

euroa-bicentennial-park.

The plan for a bike education track in Euroa was met with excitement on The Euroa Gazette’s Facebook page last week.

“I remember how popular these were back in the 70s and 80s – great way to teach kids about road safety,” Amanda Koka wrote.

Others said a pump track would be another good addition to the town.

Council to open new office in Nagambie

STRATHBOGIE Shire Council will soon have a new office in Nagambie.

The new council office will operate out of the former Goulburn Shire offices at 352 High Street, Nagambie and will house up to 26 staff.

Council said staff across all areas – including planning, waste, environment, communications and community development – will be on hand to provide support, advice, and service to the community.

Council’s existing Nagambiebased customer service presence, which operates out of the visitor information centre,

will move to the offices at 352 High Street, Nagambie.

Volunteers will continue to assist visitors at the visitor information centre.

Council said it expects the new Nagambie office will open in May or June.

The building most recently housed the Nagambie Library, which shifted locations in July 2023 after it was determined the building was heaving.

A later structural assessment revealed the building had ceased heaving, council said.

Council contacted Nagambie Library, which had relocated

to another location on High Street, to ask if they would like to return to the building, but they said they are happy with their current location for now.

“We know the growing Nagambie community has been calling out for more support from council officers and we’re making this happen,” interim administrator Peter Stephenson said.

He said the move showed council is listening.

Council CEO Julie Salomon said for the past four years, council had been on a mission to change.

“We’re committed to being

better, delivering for our community and responding to its needs,” she said.

“It’s a commitment that is based around key areas we call ‘the four Cs’.

“Communication, consultation and engagement, community-based decisions, and customer service.

“We’re very much aware we need to improve in these areas.

“Our community has told us this time and time again.”

The same comments appeared in council’s 2021-2025 council plan, attributed to Ms Salomon and former mayor Chris Raeburn.

COMING SOON: An aerial concept map released by council shows a 170-metre-squared bike traffic school on an asphalt surface, which is set to be constructed at Bicentennial Park on Garrett Street in Euroa.

A love of refreshments and fun brings Longwood together for 7th year

725 people

By DARREN CHAITMAN

WHEN The Euroa Gazette arrived late – at about 7pm – to the seventh annual Longwood Beer Wine and Cider Festival on Saturday, things had gotten pretty rowdy.

Some 725 people had attended throughout the day, and those present in the evening were there to party.

Spotting this masthead armed with a camera, several groups of intoxicated people hollered out requesting to be photographed.

Their wishes were obliged.

No group was more persistent than a crew of about 20 friends from Shepparton and Melbourne dressed in pink shirts.

One member of the pink shirt crew, whose name was lost in the flurry of activity, said the friends had been attending the festival since 2019 and wore pink shirts “so we don’t lose the boys”.

But for festival organiser Ricki Shiner, who is president of the Longwood Football Netball Club, the event offers more than an occasion to be rowdy.

He said it showcases local food and drink producers, brings the community together, and raises money for community projects and groups.

The event raises money for infrastructure, junior LFNC teams, the Longwood Action Group and the Longwood Community Centre.

It is also a boon for Longwood’s nearby White Hart Hotel.

“The idea came about through the Football Netball Club just trying to come up with an idea to raise revenue through a different revenue stream… try bring something to the town that the whole town could benefit from,” Mr Shiner

said.

The festival is organised by a small committee consisting of Mr Shiner, Jade Shiner, Kathryn Goodall and Mark Goodall.

Other members of the football club also contribute to the event.

“I think Kathryn Goodall raised [the idea initially] – the small town where she was from had done something similar, but in a much smaller sense,” Mr Shiner said.

“And we thought, ‘well, locally, there’s nothing around that’s similar to that’.

“[There] are obviously a lot more microbreweries popping up, so we thought it was a good way to promote them.

“It’s good for us in that weekend, but it’s also good for the knock on effect of the whole area.

“When people come to the event, they might decide to go to one of those breweries on the weekend and have a meal and have a few drinks.”

Some 16 producers of beer, cider, wine and spirits had stalls at the festival on Saturday.

There were also six food stalls, kids’ activities and live bands throughout the day.

Speaking to this masthead at the event, Charles Robert Kemp said: “The festival here embodies community, which is Longwood Footy Club.”

“What more do you need in your community?” he asked.

“You come out to a good old-fashioned country community, you find good blokes like Rick Shiner, you have a good member in Annabelle Cleeland, pushing the right things for our community.”

Another attendee, Neil Tubb, said the good weather and the atmosphere had been the festival’s highlights this year.

GOOD TIMES: Gary Henham, Steve Tobin and Bernie Hamill.

MOG BREW MATES: Chris Capstick and Euroa Hotel owner Mitul Ahir at the Mog Brew stall.

THE DANCEFLOOR: Longwood Football Netball Club secretary Serena Blackwehl dancing with two-year-old Pheonix Watson.

FOR THE LOVE OF ALE: Dean Morris, Scott Collins, Brent Morris, Greg “mayor of Mansfield” Earney, Russell Peterson and Dale Morris.

FOR THE LOVE OF MELON: Cam Purdie, Jess Blashka, Michael Hotchkiss, Kelli Dodman, Kate Blaschka and Codie Lloyd.

ROWDY REVELLERS: Karen Gee (left), Andrew “Earnie” Severn, Charles Robert Kemp, Leitisha Kemp and Bruce Hunt. PHOTOS: Darren Chaitman

History board memorialises Old Longwood

Some 50 people attended the unveiling of board in Longwood East on Sunday morning S 5 0 p p l t t d d t h i l i g f b d i L g d E t S d y

By VAL KNEEBONE

SOME 50 people were welcomed to the corner of Longwood Ruffy Road and Faithfull Road, Longwood East with a bacon and egg roll and tea or coffee on Sunday, February 25 at 9.30am.

Community members joined with Longwood East Landcare to celebrate the unveiling of the Old Longwood history board.

The history board is the culmination of two years of work by Landcare members to document and celebrate the history of the old town of Longwood, now known as Longwood East.

President of Longwood East Landcare, Kevin Lied, welcomed guests and members.

He thanked the Shire of Strathbogie for supporting the project.

Fomer mayor Laura Binks and former deputy mayor Paul Murray were both supportive of the project and attended community workshops to allow the community to come together and provide input to the history project.

Kevin thanked all those that have had input to the process of documenting the history and fabrication of the sign.

Special mention was made

of council staff and the Euroa Historical Society.

Maggie Gardner and Michael Banks contributed many hours to the formatting of the sign and design of the structure around the sign.

Coral Cox helped community members to have input to the project.

The history board will inform both residents and visitors of the very special history of a town that moved.

It is located on the corner of Longwood Ruffy Road and Faithfull Road, Longwood East.

You are welcome to visit.

BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS: Marg Duncan watches on as Graeme Duncan whips up a breakfast of bacon and egg rolls.

2 Noble Street, Euroa, VIC eldersrealestate.com.au

THE CROWD: Some 50 people attended the history board’s unveilling on Sunday morning.

THE SUBCOMITTEE: Longwood East Landcare president Kevin Lied, Val Kneebone, Maggie Gardiner, Lisa Reynoldson (chair). Absent from the photo is Coral Cox.

RECOGNISING LONGWOOD EAST’S HISTORY: Neil Tubb spoke to the crowd at the history board’s unveiling event.

UNVEILED AT LAST: Michael Banks and Val Kneebone unveiling the Old Longwood history board

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Church Services

BAPTIST CHURCH

31 Kennedy Street, Euroa

Sunday March 2nd, 10am

Tuesday: 9.30am Prayer, 10.30am Bible Study.

Listen to Vision Radio 88.4 FM

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST

Services at Kelvin View Hall

Sunday March 2nd

10.30am Morning Worship

Everyone welcome

Pastor: Murray Broughton 5795 1950

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Balmattum

Every Sunday 3pm Worship

Enq: Rev. Stephen McDonald 5762 6275

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

CATHOLIC CHURCH

St John’s, Euroa

Friday 12.30pm Mass

Saturday Vigil Mass 6pm St. John’s Church Euroa

Sunday Mass

8.30am St Patrick’s Longwood

10.30am St Attracta’s Violet Town

Enquiries: Fr Tony Hill 5795 3048

For Baptisms and weddings please contact Fr Tony or the Parish Office

UNITING CHURCH

St Andrew’s, Euroa

Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am

Everyone Welcome

Enq: Robyn Burke 5795 3103

Judi Ward 0437 686 072

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

Enq: Joan Wood 5795 1175

St Andrew’s Violet Town

Regular Sunday Service at 9.30am

All welcome

Enq: John Dunn 0419 362 866

EUROA CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

Old School House, Clifton St Euroa

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

Enquiries: Aaron 0493 101 663

NOW Festival in Nagambie brings “wow” factor

The 17th water festival took place on a glorious late summer’s day

By DIANE GRANT

NAGAMBIE Lake and township have wonderful assets for the locals and visitors to enjoy.

This was shown once again, on a glorious late summer’s day on Saturday, February 24 in the heart of the town when the 17th Nagambie on Water (NOW) Festival reins were taken over by GoNagambie and festival volunteer groups.

The NOW Festival organisers were happy that the perfect weather attracted a large crowd who made the most of the family friendly festival and Go Nagambie thanked all the individual event organisers, all the volunteers, participants, patrons and entertainers and

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stated that their contributions ensured that there were plenty of amusements and fun activities on the day.

The 2024 festival featured GoAdventure and Wacky Water Play Stay and Play activities, the GoNagambie market, sail boats, and water craft fun around Lake Nagambie foreshore near Jacobson’s Outlook and the Lake Nagambie Bow.

Over the other park areas in Blayney Reserve and Buckley Park were the school artwork and amusements and the ever popular annual Park 2 Pub swim start and finish line.

This swimming race is always a main attraction to swimmers from all across Victoria.

Over 40 swimmers took

part in the popular 600 metres open water swim and close to 60 swimmers competed in the 1.1km Club 2 Park swim from the rowing club precinct at Buckley Park.

In both races all swimmers swam around the course buoys then headed back to the finish area near the Buckley Park boat ramp. Spectators encouraged the young and older swimmers to complete the course from the lakeside viewing points.

Race presentations took place at the Buckley Park rowing club area after the races.

To add to the festival atmosphere for visitors was the Costa Community Canoe Challenge, the Beer Auto and Kelvin

Grove Floating golf shootout, Go Adventure Goulburn Gallop of yabbies, Tahbilk Grape stomp, Mitchelton Boardwalk run, and Wacky Water park fun.

The final event of the day, in the late sunny balmy breeze, was the Nagambie Brewery Stars Down Under Water ski and stunt display with the young and experienced water skiers entertaining the small Festival crowd after 5.30pm.

One of the ski boat drivers has been leading the Moomba water skiers for over 50 years.

The 17th NOW Festival showed that the carnival atmosphere transformed the small township of Nagambie and that everyone who came along had an enjoyable day.

NOW Festival’s Park 2 Pub swim 600m short swim contestants braving Lake Nagambie’s water to take part in the 2024 Park

Pub annual swim. INSET: Sailboat fun at the 2024 NOW Festival on Lake Nagambie.

FLAG FLYERS: More water skiing performers entertained the audience.

WATER PYRAMID: Water skiing performers at the early evening ski and stunt team event.

PHOTOS: Di Grant

with Di Grant

P: 5794 1720

E: stardust2011@bigpond.com

THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK: Treat myself with respect and teach others to do the same.

PERSONALS: Happy birthday wishes go this week to Julienne Kelly, Coleen O’Donnell, Sue Hutcheson, Morgan Ashby, James Milne, Sarah Cambrey, Travis Hansen, Michael Thomson, Noel Gillard, Bradley Weaire, Joshua Weaire, Leanne O’Sullivan, Sandra Comi and Eliza O’Sullivan.

29th February birthday wishes go to Ken Lewis and Andrea Molony.

57th Anniversary wishes go to Gladys and Bruce Parris.

Sympathy goes to the family and friends of Alan Labas and to the family and friends of Dianne Akers, both who passed away recently.

QUEEN’S GARDEN HISTORICAL RECORDS:

This week I am presenting the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Rose Garden photo album, news articles and royal correspondence and memorabilia to the Nagambie and District Historical Society members, to keep for posterity the records compiled to commemorate our late Queen.

INTERNATIONAL WORLD DAY OF PRAYER:

Friday March 1, Ecumenical service - International World Day of Prayer at 11am at St John’s Anglican Church in Nagambie.

Theme: I Beg You... Bear With One Another in Love. 2024 Program written by the World Day of Prayer Committee of Palestine.

Bring and share lunch.

Contact D Grant on 5794 1720.

If you can’t make the Nagambie one, here are details for the Seymour Ecumenical one.

Friday, March 1 Seymour WDP service will be at the Christian Fellowship’s 2pm service at the VRI Hall near the station.

All welcome.

SHIRE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY AT

TAHBILK WINERY: Friday, March 8, Tahbilk Winery.

Strathbogie Shire Council is inviting everyone to this annual International Women’s Day event in the Winery’s Homestead Private Gardens.

The free event will run from 10.30am to noon.

Guest speakers are Hayley Purbrick fifth generation family member of one of the oldest winemaking families in Australia, Tahbilk Wines.

The other guest speaker will be short film director Emily Quattrocchi.

Emily will speak of her experiences and her helping others in the disabled community.

Also on offer is a complimentary wine tasting at cellar door and a luncheon at the Wetlands Café.

Costs and details on the booking link.

Bookings are essential for this event.

To book, visit: http://tinyurl.com/SS-IWD or call (03) 5795 0000.

NAGAMBIE LAKES COMMUNITY HOUSE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY BREAKFAST:

Saturday, March 9 at Nagambie Rowing Club at 9am.

Cost is $35 per person.

Guest speaker will be Victoria Police Senior Sgt Rachel Walsh from Seymour Police Station Senior Sergeant Walsh has held the position of Family Violence Training Officer for five years.

In this role she upskills police members in what family violence is, and what the police response needs to be.

Bookings and payments to the Nagambie Lakes Community House.

Phone 5792 1487.

COMING UP: Tennis club’s six week social competition on February 21-March 27.

Contact 0408 143 560.

RSL annual meeting on Tuesday, March 5 at 2pm.

Friday, March 22: Royal Children’s Hospital’s Trivia night fundraiser at Mechanics Hall, starting at 7pm.

Tickets are $15 per person.

For tickets, contact P Moroney on 0407 811 572.

CHURCH NEWS: Ecumenical Lent Bible Studies will be held at St Malachy’s church Nagambie on March 7, 14, and 21 at 11am.

Sunday 10th March.

Anglican church’s Mothering Sunday. Posies and simnel cake to be distributed at Nagambie and Seymour Anglican churches on Saturday March 23 at 10.30 am.

Diocese of Wangaratta Mother’s Union’s Lady Day presentation and service, Holy Trinity Cathedral Wangaratta.

Haines introduces bill to end pork barrelling

MEMBER for Indi Helen Haines has introduced a private members’ bill to Federal Parliament seeking to end “pork barrelling”.

Pork barrelling is the practice of directing government funds to projects in marginal electorates to win votes, without regard to evidence of the project’s merit.

“Taxpayer money should be spent on the needs of communities not the wants of the major parties,” Dr Haines said.

“Funding decisions should be evidence-based, with grants awarded on merit and need.

“At election time, the major parties use taxpayer money to shore up votes in marginal seats.

“Rorting grants programs wastes money and destroys public trust in government processes.”

Dr Haines has worked with

the Centre for Public Integrity to draft the bill, which she said would:

 require all grants programs to have clear and publicly available selection criteria;

 ensure robust reporting to the parliament to increase accountability; and

 create a parliamentary committee with oversight of grant administration and guideline compliance.

“My bill would require ministers to report to the parliament when they have delivered money to their own electorates or gone against the advice of their department when awarding grants,” Dr Haines said.

“Sunlight is the best disinfectant, and by forcing ministers to front up and explain themselves if they go against official advice, we are less like-

• Member for Indi Helen Haines

ly to see dodgy decisions made on the eve of elections to win votes.”

Examples of pork barrelling include the sports rorts, commuter car park rorts and the misuse of the opening round

FRIDGE THAT: Residents in Euroa and Avenel recently received a double-sided fridge magnet (pictured) with emergency information from Strathbogie Shire Council. The magnets were designed by the Local Emergency Action Plan (LEAP) working groups through council’s LEAPing into Resilience Program – a jointly funded project by the Federal Government with Murrindindi and Mansfield Shire councils.

District News

LONGWOOD LOOKOUT

By LONGWOOD ACTION GROUP

THE next meeting of the Longwood Action Group will be held April 3, 7pm at the Community Centre meeting room.

All welcome.

The Longwood Action Group, along with the Longwood community, respectfully pass on condolences to the family and friends of Longwood resident and ardent Redlegs supporter, Harry Hargood.

Harry was wholly remembered and laid to rest on Tuesday, February 6.

He will be missed by all.

Congratulations to the Longwood Football Netball Club for another very successful Beer, Wine and Cider Festival.

The weather was amazing, there was a great selection of stall holders, the music was rocking or even boot scooting and the

vibe was about fun, friends, and family.

It’s a credit to them that this event just gets better every year and is pulled together by a small country town club.

Well done crew.

Breakfast Club for students has commenced at the Longwood Primary School on Wednesdays.

This is a great opportunity for our students to come together before school to share breakfast in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Students can partake in cereals, fruit, toast, eggs, spaghetti/baked beans, just to name a few of the dishes on offer.

Any offers of assistance to help with cooking and washing up afterwards would be appreciated.

Unfortunately, our Parents Club has been inoperative for the last few years. With an increase in families at the school we are looking to getting it up and running again.

Parents’ clubs promote the welfare of, and provide support to, the school and its community.

of the community battery for household solar program.

“At its best, pork barrelling is maladministration, at its worst its corruption,” Dr Haines said.

“The solutions I have put forward in this Bill are practical reporting measures that ensure that the parliament, and the public, know how funding decisions are made, and why grants are awarded.

“Pork barrelling is happening right now during the Dunkley by-election, and before long the government and the opposition will be campaigning for the next federal election.

“We need these simple and reasonable reforms now to help rebuild public trust in government spending and to ensure public money is invested wisely and effectively.”

Get your skin checked for cancers

THE State Government is calling on Victorians to make sure their cancer screenings checks are up to date in a major push to boost screening rates for breast, bowel and cervical cancers.

Earlier this week, Minister for Health MaryAnne Thomas released the inaugural 2022 Victorian Cancer Screening Annual Statistical Report, a report that is the first of its kind in Australia.

Victoria has some of the best cancer outcomes in the world, but data from the report shows more Victorians need to be getting screened – particularly in regional Victoria and areas of economic disadvantage.

Using data from the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, BreastScreen Victoria and the National Cervical Screening Program in Victoria, the report found:

 just 50 per cent of the eligible population aged 50 to 74 participated in breast screening in 2020-2022, however, the overall participation rate improved by 4.2 per cent compared to 2019-2021;

 In 2022 there was an 11 per cent decrease in completed bowel screening tests compared to 2021; and

 79 per cent of eligible Victorians aged 25 to 74 had a cervical screening test in 2018-2022.

The 2022 Victorian Cancer Screening Annual Statistical Report is available at report.acpcc.org.au.

Parents are key partners in their child’s learning.

By interacting with the school and other parents, parents’ club members can use their skills and experience to work collaboratively with others in supporting the school and its students and build a sense of community within the school.

The role of a parents’ club is threefold:

 to provide support, in various forms, for the school, its students and community, including raising funds for the benefit of the school;

 to work in cooperation with the principal, staff and school council in building effective partnerships between home and school; and

 to encourage diversity by getting to know the parents of other children at the school, and to support the operation of the school.

Please forward any information you would like included to longwoodlookout@ gmail.com.

Violet Town Probus Club celebrates 25th anniversary

By SUE MCNUTT

RECENTLY Violet Town Probus celebrated its 25th anniversary.

We are ever grateful to the late Geoff Webster from Rotary for facilitating the inauguration of our group. The 25th celebration was marked with a gathering in the park at Violet Town where members enjoyed a delicious barbecue expertly cooked by Ken Byrne and salads

prepared by members.

Margaret Down, being the longest serving member of the group, cut the cake, which was enjoyed by all.

The group has achieved a great deal over the 25 years ably guided by many talented people. Members have enjoyed entertaining and informative speakers and attended a host of different and varied trips around Victoria including some multi-day ventures. There is still lots more to come.

Artist searches for “hidden language of this country”

By SIM AYRES

THROUGHOUT March, Bush Gatherings in Violet Town is presenting an exhibition of mud maps, possible landscapes and tall stories by myself, Simeon “Sim” Ayres.

All works have been completed over the past year.

A few were inspired from a return to the Sussex Weald in January last year, but all others have grown directly from my relationship with the Strathbogie ranges.

I have been making maps and drawing in the ranges for the past ten years and this is my first solo exhibition for seven years.

Euroa Garden Club

members happy to return after summer break

Local horticulturalist Jemma Norman shares surprising life journey pgjy

By DENISE HOLT

THE Euroa Garden Club held their first meeting for 2024 in the Show Ground Pavilion on Friday.

The meeting was well attended.

President Rosalie Wrest welcomed 42 members and was happy to introduce three new members.

There was much chatter and catching up after a long summer break.

The usual trading table was well stocked and members enjoyed finding treasures for their gardens.

Coral Cox, who co-ordinates this much valued feature of garden club meetings, had been busy propagating and collecting plants, flowers and fruit to sell for a nominal amount.

Several other keen gardeners also contributed to the table.

Rosalie introduced the guest speaker for this meeting, Jemma Norman.

Jemma gave a very interesting talk about her path to her present career as a horticulturalist.

Jemma began her working life as a public servant in Canberra but a change in direction saw her study horticulture and a move to Euroa.

Jemma loves the small town vibe and is presently working at the Euroa Arboretum and Billabong Nursery in Shepparton.

Both of these are interesting, communityenriching enterprises.

Jemma spoke of bringing a “bit of bush” into our gardens and encouraged Garden Club members to visit the

new retail facility at the Arboretum.

Rosalie presented Jemma with a small gift of thanks and the meeting concluded with a generous afternoon tea.

The next meeting will see the Garden Club return to visiting lovely gardens, the first being the garden of Margaret and David Cerini in Kennedy Street on March 15.

New members are invited to attend.

More information is available from president Rosalie Wrest on 0488 105 396.

The exhibition features 11 works and accompanying words.

It was Barry Lopez who said: “We need maps that make evident the resplendent earth.”

For me, making art, making maps, recognising patterns, comes from a deep love of the world I experience around me.

I work a lot in the forest and on the peaks, I follow the little creeks down from the perched bogs, I’m fascinated with how this country ties together, what leads to where, what belongs together, and what is the hidden language of this country.

speaker Jemma Norman with president Rosalie Wrest.

EXHIBITION IN VIOLET TOWN: Sim with two framed original landscapes in pen and ink: “Flame trees on Mount Wombat” and “The trees that call us together”.

CUTTING THE CAKE: Margaret Down, watched by John Ryan.

Avenel artists join forces for ARTBOX

TWO of Strathbogie Shire’s talented artists are coming together for a joint exhibition at ARTBOX, currently situated on the banks of Lake Nagambie at Jacobson’s Outlook.

Anabranch, by Gus Leunig and Angus Cameron, will examine the nature of their shared environment along the creek and reserves of Avenel.

It will run from March 2-24.

Anabranch refers to the way in the artists explore elements and pathways of their subject matter but continually returning to the essence of the natural environment as a key reference.

With contrasting styles, the artists celebrate the rich natural life and seasonal diversity of the bush through prints and paintings.

About the artists:

GUS LEUNIG

Gus Leunig’s colourful and poetic paintings encapsulate his love of the natural environment in the countryside where he lives in northeast Victoria.

Leunig’s imagery is created through a mixture of observation and imaginative expression.

His art features quirky figures which inhabit a complex and whimsical world.

The elements in his work are drawn together through a tight compositional framework while creating playful pathways with un-

Gus Leunig and Angus Cameron to hold exhbition named Anabranch gg

expected encounters.

Leunig’s art career began in 2009 with a sell-out show at Art Sydney, followed by a succession of solo exhibitions at Libby Edward’s Gallery in Melbourne.

He currently exhibits with Van Rensburg Galleries in Hong Kong and New York and Salt Contemporary Art Gallery in Queenscliff

Gus Leunig lives in and works in Avenel, Victoria.

ANGUS CAMERON

Based in Avenel, Angus Cameron makes prints and impressions on paper that reflect the environment where he lives.

His works embody aesthetics found in nature, echoing forms and patterns that make up the micro and macro world of plants and place.

The work sits in a space between abstraction and representation.

It is a filtered gaze reflecting the patterns and shapes of the land and the life it supports.

Angus lived in Darwin from 1997 to 2019 and has experience in art education, project management, curating and arts industry development.

In 2005 he established Nomad Art Productions in partnership with his wife Rose.

Nomad Art is well known for facilitating unique pro-

jects that foster cross-cultural collaborations with artists nationally.

These curated exhibitions promote collaboration, reconciliation and understanding and with an educational focus.

Angus relocated to Victoria in 2019 and established a print making studio at his home in Avenel, allowing him to focus once again on his own artwork.

Avenel artist Gus Leunig at his studio.

RED BIRD: Red Bird, collagraph on paper by Gus Leunig, 35 x 29cm.

UNTITLED: Untitled, acrylic on canvas by Gus Leunig, 61 x 61cm.

BECOMING THE LAKE II: Becoming the Lake II, collagraph on paper by Angus Cameron 120 x 42cm.

PETRIE, Raymond.

Loved brotherin-law of Biddy, Geoff, Kathy, Val, Christine and Vicki.

Reunited with Mabel.

Thoughts to Lee and Brett.

Vale PETRIE, Ray.

Date Issued: 20 February 2024

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT

POSITION VACANT –SECRETARY

PASSIONATE ABOUT COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT?

Join the Euroa Agricultural Society Inc. as our Secretary and help enrich our community!

Cherished Memories

Euroa FNC wish to extend our condolences to family and loved ones of past player Ray Petrie. Ray played over 100 senior games at Euroa FNC and was part of the 1957, 58, 63, 64, 65 Premiership teams. May he rest in peace.

DEATH NOTICES

KOPANICA, Emil.

Passed away peacefully at the Morrie Evans Wing, Benalla Health on February 21, 2024.

Aged 97 years.

Loved and loving husband of Anne.

Loved and adored father and father-in-law of Michael and Angela, Dianne and Helen. Treasured granddad of Joel, Aaron, Amanda and Ben.

And great granddad of Lenny and Layla. Rest in peace.

FUNERALS

KOPANICA

The funeral prayer service to celebrate the life of Mr Emil Kopanica will be held at the N J Todd Funeral Home – Feehan Chapel, 81 Baddaginnie Benalla Road, Benalla on Thursday, February 29, 2024 commencing at 11.30am.

The funeral will leave at conclusion of the prayers for burial at the Benalla Lawn Cemetery.

Livestream of the funeral service will be available, please go to the N J Todd website and follow the Livestream link.

N.J. TODD

Member AFDA

EUROA 1800 352 425

BENALLA (03) 5762 2461

FUNERAL DIRECTOR

N J Todd Funeral Directors

Member AFDA

Servicing Euroa & District since 1937

Damien Feehan

Justin Feehan

The land affected by the application is located at: 82 Kirwans Bridge Road, Nagambie VIC 3608

The application is for a Permit for: Use and development of the land for a Camping and Caravan Park, Restaurant and Place of Assembly, Two lot subdivision, creation of an easement and removal of native vegetation

The applicant for the Permit is: Nagambie Waters Pty Ltd

The application Reference Number is: P2023-128

You may view the application and any documents that support the application on our website at: https://www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/services/building-and-planning/ planning-applications-currently-advertised/ or at the office of the Responsible Authority during office hours:

Strathbogie Shire Council

109A Binney Street Euroa / Telephone: (03) 5795 0000

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the Permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority.

An objection must be sent to the Responsible Authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before:

11 March 2024

All objections are placed on the relevant Planning Permit application file, which is publicly available at all times. Objections can therefore be read and used by other parties.

An objection form is available from Strathbogie Shire Council office, by phoning Council on (03) 5795 0000 or at: https://www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/development/statutory-planning/ objections

If you submit an objection, the Responsible Authority will tell you of its final decision.

PUCKAPUNYAL

ARMY LIVE FIRING RANGE

WARNING NOTICE

Euroa Basketball Association Annual General Meeting

Monday, March 4, 2024, 7pm at Euroa Secondary College Sport Stadium Multi-Purpose Room. All positions have been declared vacant. Enquiries: euroabasketball association@ gmail.com.

Work closely with volunteers and manage administrative tasks year-round, plus assist in the preparations of our Annual Euroa Agricultural Show event.

Strong time management and computer skills required. Voluntary role with small remuneration.

Find more information and apply at www.euroashow.org.au. Contact Sharon at euroashow@bigpond.com or 57952 527 with questions.

Applications close 5pm, March 8th.

SOLD

2011 Pajero, silver, 155,500km, 7 seats, (YKD 934) reg until September 1, 2024, Redarc electric brake control, RWC, $22,500. Ph 0428 553 686.

2002 Toyota Landcruiser Prado Grande Auto 4cyl 3lt diesel, excellently maintained by original owner, always garaged, service records, new tyres, leather seats, powered windows, sunroof, remote locking, many features ahead of its time, 458,790km, RWC, registration till August, (RTM 834), REDUCED TO $13,500. Phone John 2009 Ford Mondeo XR5, m anual, 180,00km, (1SM6DN), adaptive cruise control, bluetooth, sunroof, all-round parking sensors, service history, $8500. Ph 0458 583 608.

REDUCED!

MY 2019 Nissan Juke Nismo RS. AWD, auto in stunning black, this fun packed small 5 Dr hatchback has been lovingly cared for by p resent older owner, regretful sale, making way for campervan, less than 25,000kms on clock, Mansfield, all books, service records, keys, RWC etc, reg (BOP081). $25,250. Call Paul on 0488 444 650.

KOKODA caravan 20’6” 2017 model, full ensuite with ceramic vanity, front island queen bed, café dinette with trifold table, 190Ltr 3 way fridge, full oven with 3 gas and 1 electric burner, 19” digital TV, reverse cycle aircon, LED down lights, top load washing machine, rolled bench tops, drawers on rollers, diesel heater installed, double glazed windows, full checker plate on front and all-comp sides, roll-out awning, 2x 95ltr water tanks with galvanised stone, 22.6Ltr gas and electric hot water system, 2x 9kg gas bottles, deep cycle b attery with charger, solar wiring provision with regulator, generator hatch, picnic table, 6” alloy wheels, dual access tunnel boot with lights, immaculate condition, $49,950, legitimate r eason for selling, located in Bright. P h 0418 802 351 or 0427 189 176.

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

JAYCO Sterling 2013 22ft, immaculate condition, slide ou t queen bed, full annex and veranda and lots of extras, (V71417), $40,500. Ph 0438 511 958.

Around the Bowling Greens

EUROA BOWLS CLUB

By GREG BLATCHFORD

The first week of the finals series is done and dusted with our three participating sides still in contention.

Midweek division four and weekend division five have preliminary final clashes this week while weekend division four have made it through to the grand final on Saturday week.

In midweek pennant we came up against Eildon on the slick Nagambie surface and got off to a slow start in windy conditions.

We were well down at lunch time but lifted after the break and finished strongly.

Unfortunately, we couldn’t quite bridge the gap falling short by eight shots.

This week we take on East Shepparton (again at Nagambie) and must be at our best to earn the right to try and turn the tables on Eildon.

Euroa v Eildon – 53 to 61.

Richard Noble, Doug Maconachie, Kristeen Boyce and Jan Sheargold 25-21.

Barry Hatchman, Libby Byrne, Dot Lomer and Margaretha Cerini 13-19.

Peter Naughton, Jim Perry, Mary Steen and Buffy McFarlane 15-21.

In weekend division four we took on Eildon on the slower of the Nagambie surfaces determined to put in an improved showing after

our poor performance the week before.

To the credit of all bowlers we played as a team, supported each other and came away with a win to secure a grand final berth.

One lesson from the result is that every week is different and we will need to play at the same level if we are to secure the ultimate prize.

Eildon and Alexandra face off in the preliminary final (at Euroa) on Saturday and both clubs will be champing at the bit to get the opportunity to bring us undone.

Euroa v Eildon – 103 to 70.

Kev Milner, Don Steers, Brian Diffey and Kerrie Steers 32-16.

Peter Naughton, Lindsay Cocking, Libby Byrne and David Cerini 22-14.

Barry Hatchman, Doug Maconachie, Richard Noble and Brian Bamford 28-17.

Jim Perry, Max Griffiths, Greg Blatchford and Margaretha Cerini 21-23.

Our Division six side took on Yea at Dookie in what turned out to be a close affair.

We prevailed in two of the three rinks but in the end fell short by five shots.

Whilst disappointed we were far from disgraced and can get the chance to reverse the result if we can overcome Mooroopna at Shepparton Park on Saturday.

Unfortunately Doug Morgan slipped on the slope at Dookie whilst undertaking the trek back to the green following afternoon

Grand final showdown set for Goolagong and Cash teams

By KELLY HILL

IN an exhilarating display of tennis prowess, the semi-final clashes of the competition unfolded with nail-biting intensity, setting the stage for a thrilling grand final showdown.

In the first semi-final, top-seeded Goolagong managed to clinch a narrow victory over fourth-placed Hewitt in a fiercely contested battle.

Despite Lucas’s commendable effort in winning all his sets for Hewitt, Goolagong emerged triumphant with a five game win.

Adelaide proved to be a pivotal player for the winning team, delivering stellar performances and securing victory in all her matches.

Meanwhile, in the other semi-final matchup, third-seeded Cash upset secondseeded Barty to secure their spot in the grand final.

Asha emerged as a standout performer for Cash, dominating in all her sets and contributing significantly to her team’s success.

Avie showcased remarkable skill and

determination for Barty, winning all three of her sets in a valiant effort.

With Goolagong and Cash advancing to the grand final, anticipation is running high for an epic clash next Friday night.

Both teams are primed and ready to give it their all in pursuit of the championship title.

For the remaining teams, the final week of tennis will see them competing in singles matches, ensuring that the excitement of the competition continues until the very end.

In addition to the oncourt action, the Hotshots and Intermediate coaching programs will also culminate in their final week next Friday.

Participants are encouraged to don their brightest and most brilliant tennis attire, adding a splash of color to the thrilling conclusion of the season.

As the competition heats up and the grand final draws near, congratulations are in order to all the teams for their outstanding performances and dedication throughout the season.

tea and had to be subbed out of the game. Hopefully he will be right for this Saturday.

Euroa v Yea – 52 - 57.

Marg Goode, Ross Withers, Neville Harris and Chris Asquith 24-15.

Ken Byrne, Ray Day, Doug Morgan and Gordon Grant 08-25.

Tim Scarlett, Ken Drysdale, Ian South and James Dunn 20-17.

Whilst these events were unfolding our club also hosted the weekend division three semi-finals and next Saturday we have three preliminary

Finals on our greens – divisions three, four and seven.

This means workers will be needed so our resources will be stretched a bit with division six bowling in Shepparton and also needing our support.

As always I am sure we will manage.

We are hosting the GV Men’s and Women’s Pairs Champion of Champions play offs which is another accolade to our green keepers and the wonderful grass surface they produce.

Thanks must also be extended to our catering staff for the great job they do.

But wait – there’s more.

This week we are also staging our ladies tournament which is regarded by many as the premier ladies event on Goulburn Valley Bowls.

Teams of four participating in three games with lunch and afternoon tea provided.

Thanks again to the Euroa Health Save Pharmacy who are the major sponsor of the day.

It is also the final week of Rodwells Business House Bowls and things are tight at the top of the table.

Grass Cutters and Clarkie Builders are equal top on 36 points with Crass Cutters holding a two shot advantage.

Gillies Tankers are third with 34 points, two points ahead of the fourth placed Kruger Care.

It is sure to be a big final round and there is no doubt that it will again be an enjoyable evening for all who participate.

Participation and fun are the most important things.

We also extend our congratulations to Tony Kingma and Marc Stevens on winning another club pairs championship. \rAlso well done to a new combination of Jim Perry and Max Griffiths on making the final.

Lotti’s Dad won the Nifty 50 on Friday night and the final draw will take place this week.

Come on Shane you can do it.

A new who am I for the punters “This top gun is no doll” and it was great to see Ken Drysdale returning to form with his Friday night tips.

Sponsor of the week this week is BJ & JK Douglas Shepparton who recently completed restoration works on our club rooms following the October 2022 flood.

They also worked on the Euroa

Third Age Club/RSL and the Euroa Croquet club.

AVENEL BOWLS CLUB

By KATE DONOVAN

MIDWEEK pennant division three, semi-final Avenel 62 were defeated by Seymour VRI 91.

The ever-reliable rink of Pam Pedder, Graham Lewis, Noel Slater, Geoff Hateley (s) were the only winning rink for Avenel 25 -19.

Skip Geoff Hateley guided his rink to a six-shot win backed up with on target bowling by Pedder, Lewis and Slater.

Rusty Schwab, James Wall, Dennis McGregor, Spud Furletti (s) had a battle on their hands but kept their nose in front till the 17th end when Seymour VRI finally won the lead. Avenel won the lead back on the 22nd end, however Seymour VRI scored 10 shots over the last four ends and won the game 29–22.

Fay Hateley, Kate Donovan, Jenny Furletti, Grace Kenworthy (s) fell into a hole early.

The hole quickly became a crater as Seymour VRI went on a rampage winning ten straight ends to take control of the game.

The 43–15 win for VRI was reward for accurate and disciplined bowling.

Seymour VRI go straight into the grand final and the next game for Avenel is the Preliminary Final against Mooroopna Golf at Shepparton Golf.

Youth Girls Team of the Decade to be named

■ From back page

This expansion reflects the league’s commitment to fostering the growth of female football participation across the region.

A highlight of the gala evening will be the presence of guest speaker Chyloe Kurdas, a former elite Australian rules footballer and AFL Victoria’s Female Football Development Manager.

Kurdas played a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for the AFLW, Australia’s firstever national women’s professional football competition, and will share valuable insights with attendees.

In addition to announcing the final Team of the Decade, the event will also include the naming of the Youth Girls Best and Fairest Medal, adding to the anticipation and excitement surrounding the occasion.

Congratulations to all the players selected in the squad for the Youth Girls Team of the Decade.

Their talent, dedication, and contributions to the sport have been truly commendable, and they represent the best of women’s football in the Northern Country region.

Nagambie Golf Club: Terry Lowis dominates WaterBoy Cup

NAGAMBIE WOMEN’S GOLF

By KARYN THOMPSON

RESULTS Wednesday, February

14.

We had nine players for a Stableford round.

The winner of A Grade was Irene Keogh with 34pts.

The winner of B and C Grade was Bev Brown with 27pts.

Irene also won the nine hole competition with 19 pts.

Irene was also the winner of the Seymour Club Voucher

Nearest to the pin on the eighth was Monica Hurley and the 13th Moz Fowler.

18 hole balls down the line went to Irene 34pts and Monica 33pts.

Nine hole balls down the line went to Irene 19pts, Moz 17pts on a count back from Bev.

Results Wednesday, February 21.

We had 13 players for a round of Par.

The A Grade winner was Irene Keogh with minus one.

The B Grade winner was Carol Wallis with plus four.

The C Grade winner was Jane Bow with minus three.

The nine hole winner and the winner of the Seymour Club Voucher was Carol Wallis with plus four.

Nearest to the pin on the third was Bev Brown and the 16th Carol.

18 hole balls down the line went to Carol plus four, Irene Keogh minus one and Kylie Carmichael minus two.

Nine hole balls down the line went to Carol plus four, Moz Fowler plus one and Jane.

Results of Thursday, February 22 nine hole mixed Competition.

There were 14 players for a Par

round and the winner was Wayne LeCerf plus two.

Wayne also managed nearest to the pin on the 13th and on the 16th it was Terry Lowis.

NAGAMBIE GOLF CLUB

By DAVID LOVE

THE seventh edition of the WaterBoy Cup, now a well and truly established event on the Nagambie golfing calendar gives recognition to all the irrigation teams that work hard across the summer keeping the course as green as possible, many thanks go to the day’s originator and sponsor Lindsay Hall.

It was the final weekend of summer with the month of February providing magnificent golfing weather throughout the course that was once again looking great due to all the irrigation efforts.

The winner of the day’s stableford was Terry Lowis with a dominant performance shooting 42 points to win by a margin of three, Lowis’ steady game and easy going nature serve him well playing the stableford and par formats.

Runner up was Shane Black with another solid performance on the Nagambie course 39 points was his total on the day, finishing in third position was Mathew Wallis showing off his game and completing the round with a handicap equalling 36 points.

The nearest the pin prizes went to Doug Neville with a surprise result on the third the surprise being reaching the green and landing on, Phil Hageman playing a fantastic shot onto the 13th and Terry Wallis getting inside two others to claim the 16th.

Next week on Friday March 1 we have a four person ambrose sponsored by Costa Mushrooms, hit off is

between 4pm and 6pm, visitors and non-golfers are welcome, then Sunday will be a monthly medal with B. Leviston in the office and G.

EUROA WOMEN’S GOLF

By DEDRA COX

WEDNESDAY February 21.

Twelve women played a Stableford round under some grey and showery skies.

Winner of Division one: Gail Allen with 35 points on a countback from Levenia Redfern.

Winner of Division two: Mary Dewis with a brilliant score of 44 points.

Mary clearly proving that she is a legend at golf as well as tennis.

Balls down the line: Marion McMartin who had an outstanding score of 43 points, just missing out to Mary by one point.

Well done Maz.

Nearest the Pin’s: Gail Allen took both the eighth and the 12th.

Robin Lied on the 18th.

Drive and Pitch: Levenia Redfern took the fifth and the 15th.

Saturday February 24.

Eighteen players for a Stableford round and the women who chose to play in the early morning were challenged by a cold and gusty wind.

Winner of Division one: Lorraine Ellis with 36 points.

Winner of Division two: Robin Lied with 35 points on a countback from Robyn Anthony.

Balls down the line: Annette Smith, Freda Edwards and Robyn Anthony all on 35 points.

Nearest the Pin’s: eighth, Judy McLean, 12th Sarah Bullen and 18th Deb Cox.

Drive and Pitch:Fifth and 15th both to Erica Mercer.

EUROA GOLF CLUB

By RICHARD JOHNSON

AFTER two years of washout events the Freda and Laurie Edwards Mixed Foursomes has been played in perfect summer conditions.

A field of 44 players including visitors from Tathra, Numurkah and Shepparton were welcomed to the event by Tournament Director Mandy Edwards.

The event is played in mixed pairs, playing alternate shots and event winners Bill Wright and May Hamilton combined nicely to take the scratch event with 91, one shot ahead of Sarah Bullen and Scott Watson countback runners up over Dee and Laurie McMartin.

The handicap event was won by Judy McLean and Shane Burke playing and winning his first competition event at Euroa.

Runners Up were the Dad and Daughter team of Richard and Grace Eddy.

Grace also winning a Nearest the Pin.

Other combinations were not quite as successful for the first time Gail Allen made Neal Healey’s day difficult, while Ros Doxey got to play from some places on the course she had never seen before thanks to a very wayward driver in her playing partner Richard Johnson’s hands.

A very enjoyable day at the Club with Dav and David presenting the greens and course in beautiful conditions while the tireless workers behind the scenes including sponsor Freda Edwards, Mary Dewis, Kae Lummas and May Hamilton produced a successful event.

The Men’s field on Saturday

played a Stableford Event with 41 Players Peter Ellis’s run of good form continued with a very nice 40 points to win Division one, while Glen Richmond, visiting from Eastwood Club took out Division two. Matt Mills had an excellent 39 points from his handicap of one, Phil Squires 38, Sam Mills 37.

The Twilight season continues with the shadows getting much longer.

Levena Redfern, who has become a bit of a Twilight Specialist had a win with 21 points. A nice round before she and Paul head west for a while.

Grace Eddy, Brian Rule, Robyn Anthony and Daz Toy took home the balls.

The Wednesday field was just 20 players, and a countback was needed to give the win to Frank O’Connor over Dick Farmer on 38.

Plenty of players good enough to play to the handicaps with Tony Coulters, Kevin Mead, Shane Molony and Neil Healey taking home a ball on 36 points.

Wednesday evening, course volunteer Scott Watson was attending to relocating the pin placements with the aid of his son Charlie who was surprised when he lifted the cup on the first green to find a young red belly black snake had made his home underneath the cup.

Earlier that day, some 30 golfers had extracted their ball from that very same hole only millimetres from the resident black snake.

All regular events are on this week with the Autumn Tournament offering three days golf over the following long weekend. Green fee players will be welcome but will need to fit in around the competition fields.

Euroa Golf Club handicap winners Shane Burke and Judy McLean.

SCRATCH: Euroa Golf Club scratch winners Bill Wright and May Hamilton.

CONSISTENT PERFORMER: Dublin

Vets secure first cricket win for season 23/24

By PETER MORLEY

EUROA over 60s cricket team emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter against Barkly St/Footscray last Sunday, marking their first win for the 2023/24 season in a match filled with commendable performances and team spirit.

The team’s success was attributed to a wonderful collective effort, spurred on by an inspiring speech from captain Rick O’Bree, whose unwavering competitive spirit served as a beacon of motivation for the players.

Despite the challenges posed by the hard wicket, Euroa adapted seamlessly to the conditions, showcasing their versatility and resilience on the field.

MOMENTUM:

CONFIDENCE ON DISPLAY: Michael

Euroa A grade faces Tatura in Haisman Shield showdown

A GRADE CRICKET

By JACK WILSON

EUROA A grade cricket team embarked on a challenging encounter against Tatura on the opening day of the final round of the Haisman Shield.

The match, held at Tatura, unfolded with both teams eager to make their mark in the competition.

Captain Scott Hamilton found himself on the losing end of the toss, with Tatura opting to bat first.

The Euroa bowlers, led by James Lloyd and Walter Jackson, kicked off proceedings admirably, effectively constraining Tatura’s scoring rate.

The breakthrough moment arrived when Vaughan Kirk, replacing Jackson, clinched the opening wicket of the match.

Nic Hill’s stunning one-handed

catch at short cover added flair to the dismissal.

Tatura, however, persisted in accumulating runs until Lloyd intervened, claiming the first of his impressive five-wicket haul for the afternoon.

A flurry of quick wickets ensued, with Kirk and Lloyd wreaking havoc on Tatura’s batting lineup.

The hosts found themselves in dire straits at 5/66, struggling to cope with Euroa’s bowling onslaught.

Lloyd’s mastery with the ball continued, securing two more wickets before the afternoon tea interval, leaving Tatura reeling at 6/82.

After the break, Tatura’s lowerorder batsmen staged a spirited fightback, capitalising on loose deliveries to put pressure on Euroa’s bowlers.

Brad Gleeson managed to break a significant partnership with a wellexecuted delivery that disturbed the stumps, while Hamilton’s superb run-out further dented Tatura’s progress, leaving them at 8/135.

The battle for the final two wickets proved arduous for Euroa, as Tatura’s ninth-wicket partnership posed a stern challenge.

Lloyd, however, displayed his prowess once again, claiming his fifth wicket to halt Tatura’s momentum.

A joint effort from the co-captains secured the final run-out, dismissing Tatura for 222.

With the bat, Euroa’s openers, Ash Ellis and Andrew Butterworth, negotiated the final five overs of the day without any loss.

The team will resume next week at 0/16, chasing Tatura’s target of 223.

TATURA A GRADE - 10/222 (71.3 Overs)

James Lloyd - 5/35 (19 Overs)

Vaughan Kirk - 2/67 (21.3 Overs)

EUROA A GRADE - 0/16 (5 Overs)

Ashley Ellis - 9* (17)

Andrew Butterworth - 2* (14)

D GRADE

By JACK WILSON

IN unfortunate news, Euroa’s D grade team faced a setback, as a result of B Grade’s forfeiture against Tatura.

Consequently, D grade was forced to forfeit their final two matches against Old Students and Northerners.

The players expressed gratitude to all supporters and helpers during what proved to be a challenging season.

Winning the toss and electing to bat, Euroa delivered their best batting performance since joining the competition three years ago. Six players retired after facing their allotted 25 balls, with Rick O’Bree and Dave Gleeson leading the charge with impressive scores of 40, highlighted by a flurry of sixes. Contributions from Tony Courtin and Mark Ahern, both scoring over 30, as well as Roger McKernan and Peter Morley, compiling over 20, propelled Euroa to a formidable final score of 7/262.

In response, Barkly St/Footscray displayed commendable batting prowess, but were ultimately thwarted by Euroa’s disciplined bowling attack and exceptional fielding. Outstanding performances from bowlers such as Tony Courtin (3/38), Mark Ahern (1/31), Rick O’Bree (1/31), and Phil Thomson (1/6) restricted the opposition to 6/205.

The impeccable catching skills of Ian Metcalf, Billy O’Brien, and Rick O’Bree played a pivotal role in Euroa’s victory, contributing significantly to their overall performance.

While celebrations were somewhat subdued due to the long journey home, Euroa expressed heartfelt gratitude to Bernie Hill for his invaluable contribution as scorer, as well as to their dedicated supporters – Julie, Ruth, Sue, and Michael – whose unwavering encouragement buoyed the team throughout the match.

Looking ahead, Euroa over 60s eagerly anticipate their next game scheduled for February 25 at the Friendlies against Warrandyte, aiming to maintain their winning momentum and continue their impressive form.

FORWARD

Troy Van Den Berghe catches opponents off guard with a bold charge towards the net.

Nolan demonstrates his determination with a fierce backhand return.

GAME ON: Kevin Bott, the anchor of Euroa lawn, shares a laugh ahead of the upcoming grand final showdown.

Anderson’s reliable presence defines the 2024 tennis season.

TRIPLE THREAT: Bede Redfern dominates all his sets unfortunately falling short of team success.

PHOTOS: Dale Mann

Youth Girls Team of the Decade to be named

By DAN GODSMARK

THE MBCM Northern Country Women’s League (NCWL) Youth Girls Competition is gearing up for a special milestone as it celebrates its 10th anniversary.

In honour of this significant occasion, a selection panel has been hard at work selecting the Team of the Decade.

The final team will be announced at a gala function hosted by league partners, the GV Hotel, on Friday.

Among the talented athletes vying for a spot in the prestigious Team of the Decade are Euroa’s own Georgie Gall, Lucy Dawe, Emily Chapman, Aurora Smith, and Tamara Smith.

These outstanding players have been instrumental in shaping the landscape of women’s football in the region and have consistently showcased their skills and dedication on the field.

Shaun Connell, region manager of NCWL, expressed his excitement about the upcoming event.

“We are thrilled to announce the squad for the Youth Girls Team of the Decade, and we look forward to the gala event on Friday where we will announce our Final Team of the Decade, as well as our Coach of the Decade,” Mr Connell said.

The anniversary celebrations will also include the Season Launch for 2024, during which Barooga will be formally welcomed into the Youth Girls and Women’s Competitions, along with Rumbalara and Mansfield into the Women’s Competition.

■ Continued page 17

Euroa teams secure spot in section one showdowns

Phil Mollison and John Kelly lead the section two ygcharge

By CAROLINE KEENAN

TWO Euroa sides will play for the Section one premiership cup this week after claiming victories in tight semi-final clashes on Saturday.

St Paul’s managed to topple Strathbogie despite Strathbogie’s men giving the reigning premier a fright.

Kelly and Jake Hill got their finals campaign off to a flying start by each winning all their sets and Rosie Cameron was an

impressive inclusion in the side, also claiming all three sets.

It was a battle royale between number one men, St Paul’s Mark Borthwick and Strathbogie’s Jason Eveleigh with Eveleigh getting the chocolates after a comfortable win in the mixed doubles.

St Paul’s Sarah Ternes had to dig deep to get on top Strathbogie’s Mayra Walsh, who continued to produce winning shots until the final point.

It was a 62 to 51 game win to St Paul’s.

The result means St Paul’s takes on Euroa Lawn after Euroa accounted for Longwood Lawn following an old-fashioned arm wrestle.

Longwood’s top man Bede Redfern impressed by winning all his sets but it wasn’t enough to get his side over the line.

A whole-team effort allowed Euroa Lawn to nudge ahead in the mixed doubles and ultimately claim the match by five games.

The final score was Longwood 57 to Euroa 62.

And reigning premier St Paul’s won’t get the chance to defend its Section two title after going down to Benalla Gardens.

St Paul’s men won all their sets but it wasn’t enough to get the outclassed ladies across the line.

The highlight of the afternoon came via Phil Mollison and John Kelly who produced a near-perfect set to deny Benalla a single game.

The final score was 57 to 67. Benalla Gardens will host this week’s final.

■ More photos page 19

POWER PLAY: Jacob Tarren unleashes a strong forehand return.

PHOTOS: Dale Mann