Euroa Gazette 300823

Local cattle farmer Brenton Sessions is pinching himself after one of his Angus cattle gave birth to triplets earlier this month.

Friends

A VERY special, 101-yearold guest last week joined a celebration of the Friends of the Euroa Library (FOEL)’s 30th anniversary.

About 30 people filled the back room of the Euroa Library on Wednesday, where the guest of honour Peg Lusink, the founder of FOEL, joined via Zoom, her face enlarged on a TV screen. It was the centenarian’s own suggestion to join via Zoom after she could not find a driver to take her to Euroa from her apartment in the inner-city Melbourne

BY DARREN CHAITMAN dchaitman@ nemedia.com.au

suburb of Carlton.

Ms Lusink – the first Victorian woman to have been appointed to the judiciary and a former Justice of the Family Court – was remarkably sharp-minded, holding the crowd as she regaled them with tales from the first days of the FOEL.

She had been living on Binney Street, Euroa, across the road from the library in the house beside Doug Stone Gold Maps, when one day she thought to herself, “I need a project” – so, she looked across the road at the library and thought, “that library looks like it needs friends”.

That idea in 1993 became the FOEL, an independent group of community members who worked on

improving and raising funds for the Euroa Library.

It was one of the first groups of its kind in Australia and came one year before the formation of a larger group, Friend of Libraries Australia (FOLA), an association which today includes “Friends” groups all over Australia, with five in the Goulburn Valley.

Ms Lusink was FOLA’s first president in 1994.

At last week’s celebration,

The Euroa Gazette asked Ms Lusink why libraries are still important today, and her answer certainly pleased the crowd of book lovers gathered in the room.

“I think they’re probably more important than they’ve ever been,” she said.

“People still want to have books, they will always want to have books – we’re not going to suddenly lose our ability to ask about things.

■ Continued page 2

PHOTO: Darren Chaitman ■ Story on page 5

Euroa Secondary College to host environment-focused festival

By EUROA SECONDARY COLLEGE

EUROA Secondary College

(ESC) will host a Youth Growers Festival on Saturday, September 2 from 10am-2pm at the school.

This is an event run by the ESC Student Representative Council (SRC) and the ESC Fiends for Green Environmental Group.

It focuses on bringing to-

gether the community of Strathbogie and surrounds to promote sustainability and togetherness in confronting climate change.

There will be food, stalls, live music, child friendly activities, working bees, and more.

This project has come about following the students’ attendance in March this year at the Shepparton

Youth Climate Change Leadership Congress.

At the Congress they started to devise a plan to help act in the local community.

Their plan to help the environment in our town is to bring everyone together by an informative environmentally friendly festival.

“We have gathered information and learnt about the deadly habits we have

as humans who can’t help but waste food/packaging/ and supplies and just throw them into our earth,” the students wrote.

“We want to raise awareness in our community by showing them how easy it is and how much they could do for the environment.”

Overall event organisers have been Joshua Quilty, Mieka Peterson, and Bonnie

Carver.

They have been supported by an SRC and Level Leader Team, including Declan Antonis (website), Alina Lester (food), Matilda Hocking (music), Indi Holloway (community and stalls), Bianca Nikolovski (tour and stall support) and Beryl Farell (art and design).

Further support has come from Jemma Hunter, Henry

Brennan, Jaxon Scorah, Kobee Mann, and Hanna Taylor-White.

SRC students Joshua Quilty, Tamieka Petersen and Bonnie Carver have organised volunteers from within the school community to help on the day. We look forward to seeing you at the festival; enter via the main entrance on Campbell Street off Clifton Street.

Celebration of pioneering group joined by 101-year-old founder Peg Lusink

■ From page 1

“Don’t think for a moment you’re going to be redundant – that’s not evident.

“Books and libraries will never be out of date.”

Today, FOEL has about 45 members (or “Friends”, as the group calls them).

Many have dropped out and re-joined over the years, but the one person to have stayed a member for the entire 30-year period is Leanne Baker, who was presented with a bouquet of flowers and applauded by the crowd for her commitment.

“I really don’t feel like I deserve anything,” the modest Ms Baker said, but the crowd clearly did not agree.

She has kept records of all the FOEL’s activities, such as photos and articles from past editions of The Euroa Gazette, and collated them in binders, which were on show at the celebration for guests to read through.

Ms Baker gave a short speech listing the main achievements of the FOEL over the years, including the hosting of literary dinners with visiting authors; having the library’s hours extended; opening the Already Read Bookshop (the group’s main fundraising vehicle); successfully advocating for a new

library to be built; opening the library’s Artspace, where art exhibitions are regularly held; and supplying the library with much new equipment.

Asked to nominate just one of these as the highlight of the FOEL’s 30 years, Ms Baker told The Euroa Gazette it would have to be getting a new library built, which took 18 months and opened in 2011.

“We had the library, we expanded the library, it outlived that spot, [so] we got a new library and then everything seemed to develop from then.”

Justus Hagen put it less delicately, recalling the old library had been a “s***box”.

In more recent times, one of the group’s latest projects was the installation of a Hub-

let at the library, a collection of loanable tablet devices which was funded by the FOEL at a cost of about $16,000.

In a message to FOEL –published as a letter to the editor in this week’s Gazette – FOLA president Jack Goodman congratulated the group on their milestone anniversary.

“From donations of books, furniture and equipment to supporting renovations and upgrades to library infrastructure, and the establishment of your bookshop, the Friends of the Euroa Library has shown what a difference can be made over the course of three decades,” he wrote.

“We are so pleased to see the Friends of the Euroa Library continuing to thrive as it heads into its fourth decade.”

BOOK BUDDIES: Bruce Hargrave (left) and Deputy Mayor Paul Murray.

LIBRARY LOVERS: FOEL president Greg Carlon (left), Deb Cox and Marg Broadhurst.

CUTTING THE CAKE: Libby Woodhouse and Leanne Baker had the honour of cutting the 30th anniversary cake.

LIFELONG MEMBER: Justus Hagen (left) presented Leanne Baker with flowers, recognising her as the only person to have been an FOEL member for its full 30 years.

BAKED BY BURKE’S: Burke’s Bakery provided a celebratory cake for the occasion.

ADORING CROWD: (Above) Ms Lusink held the crowd with ease as she chatted and asked questions over Zoom. Pictured are Anne Murray (left), Diana Arnold, Nan Sullivan and Libby Woodhouse.

101-YEAR-OLD ZOOMER: The 101-year-old founder of Friends of the Euroa Library (FOEL), Peg Lusink, joined the celebration via Zoom.

RAINFALL for Euroa in the week until 9am Monday, August 28 included 0.2mm on August 21, 6,4mm on August 22 and 6mm on August 23, totalling 12.6mm.

St John’s Primary calls for speed lights to secure school crossing

By DARREN CHAITMAN

ST John’s Primary School is campaigning to the State Government for flashing speed indicator lights to address safety concerns at their school crossing.

The school has observed drivers frequently overshoot the 40kph speed limit and fail to see the school crossing flags, which are often hidden by parked cars, at the supervised crossing site on Anderson Street in Euroa.

The popular crossing, located on a busy arterial road, is passed by about 50 trucks from Kinross Farms alone each week, the school was told by a trucking contractor, while other transport companies also use the route regularly.

Principal Therese Stewart believes solar-powered flashing lights indicating the 40kmph speed limit would be the easiest, most effective way to get cars to slow down.

“When you think about government paying a penalty of $380 million for no Commonwealth Games, we just want a small amount of money for flashing solar lights,” she said.

The school’s efforts have seen a promising response from the Department of Transport, who told deputy principal Libby Hamilton last month they were reviewing the safety of the site and would take the school’s concerns into account.

The department was reviewing all school crossings in the

MANON GALLERY ART

Framed & Unframed Paintings – Prints

Antique Maps

52 Binney St, Euroa Sat Sept 2 - Sat Sept 30

Open 10am – 3pm

Strathbogie Shire as a result of council withdrawing from the school crossing supervisor program.

Ms Hamilton said the school’s efforts have been assisted by MP for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland, who has “really gone in to bat for us”.

Ms Cleeland said the school had “very real concerns about the visibility of signs, and the visibility of the crossing itself”.

“Flashing lights and any other measures that can help improve the visibility of the crossing is a step in the right direction,” she said.

The school’s crossing supervisor, Marc Stevens, agreed something needed to be done.

“There’s too many cars that are unaware [of the crossing] when they come off the overpass,” he said.

“If it’s lit up better, like if it’s flashing lights, people have got no excuse then, they can’t miss it.”

He remembered an occasion about three years ago where a student was excited to see her mother and began to run to the other side of the road, unsupervised, while a car drove towards her.

Fortunately, that car had only been going 40kmph and the child stopped before disaster struck, but Mr Stevens said it could have been a different story if the car had been going 60kph, which he often sees.

These safety concerns are even more pressing as Mr Stevens’ future as a crossing su-

pervisor remains uncertain, following council’s withdrawal from the crossing supervisor program.

The Department of Transport, who did not respond to a request for comment from this masthead, told the school Mr Stevens’ role would be funded until the end of the year, but has not yet committed to funding the role on a longer-term basis.

Strathbogie Shire Council withdrew from the crossing supervisor program earlier this year, arguing it was a last resort after their efforts to advocate to the government for fairer school crossing funding were unsuccessful.

The move continues to be met with backlash in parts of the community, especially in Nagambie, where the town’s two school crossings are not being funded by the Depart-

ment of Transport.

The Euroa Gazette spent some time with Mr Stevens on a school morning last week, talking to him as he undertook his duties as a supervisor.

It was clear many students use the St John’s crossing, suggesting recent data from council on the average number of students who use the crossing daily stacks up: 60 students each morning (the most of any school crossing in the shire) and 45 each afternoon.

In addition to the school’s safety concerns, it also became clear there was another reason they have campaigned so hard for Mr Stevens’ future.

Even as he spoke to The Euroa Gazette, Mr Stevens did not fail to greet a single student by name as they crossed the road and greeted him enthusiastically in return.

THE

Sat 2 Sept, 7:30pm & Sun 3 Sept, 4pm

The New Boy depicts the mesmeric story of a 9-year-old Aboriginal orphan boy who arrives in the dead of night at a remote monastery run by a renegade nun.

Cast: Aswan Reid, Deborah Mailman, Wayne Blair, Cate Blanchett.

The

of American scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer and his role in the development of the atomic bomb.

CAMPAIGNING FOR SAFETY: At the St John’s crossing are Oliver (left), Willow and Bertam Du Plooy, and St John’s crossing supervisor Marc Stevens. The school is campaigning for flashing speed indicator lights to address visibility problems at the crossing.

PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

HARD TO SEE: The school has observed drivers frequently overshoot the 40kph speed limit and fail to see the school crossing flags, which are often hidden by parked cars.

Violet Town a Tidy Town finalist

The Violet Town community has been named a finalist in the Keep Australia Beautiful 2023 Victorian Tidy Towns and Cities Sustainability Awards. The township entered in all 10 of the award categories and was announced as a shortlisted entry in seven of these categories.

This year, Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria (KABV) received a total of 132 entries and from that 70 projects were shortlisted across the 10 categories, highlighting the remarkable efforts of communities, organisations, individuals, and councils in creating a more sustainable, resilient, and beautiful Victoria.

Full reserved seating aims to remediate train overcrowding

Are you a member of a club or group?

Did you know one of the features of our website is a community directory. It’s a listing of clubs, community groups and businesses in the Strathbogie community. You can search through local listings or list your club or business.

It’s really simple just head to www. strathbogie.vic.gov.au and click on the ‘find a business, club or group’ button.

$1K quick response grants remain open

A RESERVATION-only booking system for seats on weekend V/Line train services between Albury and Melbourne will be trialled, in an attempt to overcome over crowding since cheaper fares were introduced five months ago.

Under the trial, if all seats are booked on a service, passengers would then have the option of purchasing an unreserved ticket, which alerts them that they may have to stand for some or all of their journey.

to stand for all or some of an up to four-hour long journey, with some choosing to sit on the floor.

Extra train services on a Saturday morning from Albury and another on Sunday afternoon from Southern Cross was trialled during July and August to address the demand, but overcrowding still exists.

railway line, it was a distraction from the real problem, which she said is the need for more frequent and reliable services.

“While the introduction of reserved seating on weekends might alleviate weekend crowding, it raises several unanswered questions,” Ms Cleeland said.

“This trial, without additional services, could potentially restrict even more passengers from utilising the train system.

Have your

say: Draft Governance Rules

Strathbogie Shire Council is seeking input into its Draft Governance Rules. Governance rules are required under section 60 of the Local Government Act 2022. The Draft Governance Rules underpin the fundamental decision-making processes of Council and are a way in which the overarching governance, and supporting principles of The Act are implemented on a day-to-day basis. Submissions close at 5pm, Wednesday, September 13. Learn more and have your say by scanning the QR code or heading to your local survey station.

Have your say: Rates Valuation Averaging Mechanism

Local Government Victoria (LGV) is seeking feedback from the public regarding the application of a Local Government Rates Valuation Averaging Mechanism. It comes after the Final Report of the 2020 Local Government Rating Review recommended the Victorian Government consider the benefits of a Valuation Averaging Mechanism to mitigate the impact of significant changes in property valuations on rates.

As this LGV project affects ratepayers, we encourage you to have your say at https://engage. vic.gov.au/local-government-ratesvaluation-averaging-mechanism

Here you can complete a survey which is closing tomorrow on August 31, 2023.

Survey stations in every town

A reminder this is another way to engage if you don’t have access to a computer or prefer to share your views in hard copy. Survey stations can be found in every town in the shire.

Now there’s hard copies of the draft governance rules so you can review in your time. Survey station are located at: Euroa Library

Violet Town Library

Avenel Library

Tablelands Community Centre

Strathbogie General Store

Longwood General Store and PO

Greytown Community Centre

Nagambie Visitor Information Centre

1800 065 993

Don’t forget our $1000 Quick Response Grants are now open year-round, and approval is by the CEO ensuring they are quick and accessible. The funding pool for Event Grants has also increased from $30,000 annually to $50,000, with event organiser able to apply for up to $5000. For more information head to our website.

Work with us

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

Senior Environmental Health Officer

Permanent Part Time (64 hours per fortnight)

Band 7 - $44.28 per hour + 11% super

Applications close 9am, 11 September 2023

Customer Service Officers

Permanent positions – Full Time or Part Time opportunities

Band 4 - $31.43 + 11% super

Applications close 9am, 11 September 2023

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: Drainage reconstruction works – Burns Av, Atkins St, Anderson St, White St, Euroa (contract number 23/24-16).

Tenders received until 4pm AST

Wednesday, 20 September 2023.

Land Slip Repair Treatments (contract number 23/24-20).

Tenders received until 4pm AST

Wednesday, 20 September 2023.

Detailed Design of, Design of Arboretum Link (including pedestrian bridge over Castle Creek, Euroa) – contract number 23/2411. Closing 13 September 2023.

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.

www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au

info@strathbogie.vic.gov.au

Follow

Alternatively, passengers may also have the option to travel on an overflow coach, on services where these are available.

With only two of six carriages on the Albury line services currently offered reserved seating, a surplus of unreserved ticket holders have found themselves being forced

The State Government this week announced it will trial weekend reserved seating from Saturday, September 2 until late November following feedback from a recent survey of weekend passengers.

It found that more than 70 per cent supported a move to reservation-only seating on the busy Albury line trains.

State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland said while the move was a positive recognition of the under-serviced

“There is uncertainty about the availability of these reserved seats, as I’ve already heard reports of advanced bookings becoming a challenge for community members.”

V/Line said it will keep Albury line passengers updated as details of the seating reservations trial are finalised to ensure passengers have advanced notice of the change.

Flood betterment funding “not enough”

pg

MAYOR Laura Binks has welcomed the state and federal government’s new $9.4 million Council Priority Betterment Program, but said the funding does not go far enough.

Strathbogie Shire Council is eligible to apply for funding from the program, which aims to improve the resilience of essential public assets such as roads, bridges and footpaths damaged as a direct result of the 2022 flood event.

“It is pleasing to hear … but it’s still not enough,” Cr Binks said.

“Across our shire we have about 2500km of roads and we estimate the damage bill could be as high as $50 million.”

Strathbogie Shire Council and Mayor Binks have advo-

cated to the government to invest in roads and bridges which have been significantly damaged by the effect of ongoing wet weather and the October 2022 floods.

Cr Binks said the council’s advocacy efforts are paying off

In February, the council sent a motion to the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) to advocate to the Victorian government to include “betterment” as part of the Natural Disaster Financial Assistance (NDFA) scheme, which means building back assets to a higher standard to withstand possible future natural disasters.

Rural Councils Victoria chair Cr Mary-Ann Brown said the new Council Priority Betterment Program is

the first time that state and federal governments have embraced the concept of betterment in Victoria.

“We see the program announcement as an important first step in building back damaged or destroyed assets to a more resilient standard,” Cr Brown said.

In July, Cr Binks and council’s acting manager asset planning Jeeva Ali spoke at a federal senate inquiry into the impact of natural disasters on the road network.

Earlier this month, council endorsed a notice of motion to the MAV calling on the Victorian Government to allocate Commonwealth Games funding towards an investment in critical road and bridge projects in small rural and regional shires.

FUNDING DOESN’T CUT IT: Mayor Laura Binks said the state and federal governments’ new $9.4 million Council Priority Betterment Program “is still not enough”, saying council estimates the damage bill from the October 2022 floods could be as high as $50 million.

PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

Farmer Brenton in disbelief at birth of triplet Angus calves

By DARREN CHAITMAN

LOCAL cattle farmer Brenton Sessions is pinching himself after one of his Angus cattle gave birth to triplets earlier this month.

Mr Sesssions, the owner of family-run cattle breeding and selling operation Bellaspur Angus in Balmattum, had never seen triplets in his 29 years of cattle farming.

“Especially not live triplets – I’d never even heard of live triplets up until this happened,” he said.

They were first discovered by Georgia Mundy, who was farm-sitting while Mr Sessions’ parents were away.

“We just went to feed the hay in the afternoon and drive around all the cows like we always do, and she was just standing there with three calves,” Ms Mundy said.

“She was feeding two and one was sitting down.”

Mr Sessions’ cattle have given birth to four sets of twins this calving season, making the birth of triplets even more uncanny.

“Multiples are a sign of a good season to come and … it’s been an exceptionally high

PINCHING HIMSELF: Brenton Sessions, the owner of family-run cattle breeding and selling operation Bellaspur Angus in Balmattum, had never seen triplets in his 29 years of cattle farming.

level of multiples this year, so hopefully it’s a sign of better times and good seasons ahead,” he said.

The mother of the triplets, Desire, has now given birth to four calves in the last 10 months, after she gave birth to one calf in October last year.

The triplets have been named Fred, Wilma and Betty.

Holly Dever, a vet at Euroa Central Vets, said calf triplets

are “not very common at all” and she had never seen them before.

She said a commonly cited study has put it at one in every 105,000 and she believes calf triplets have about an 80 percent survival rate.

University of Melbourne professor of production animals Peter Mansell told The Euroa Gazette one to three pc of calvings are twins, while triplets are “very unusual”.

The professor added that problems with the reproductive efficiency of female calf twins – a phenomenon called “freemartinism” – are also applicable to female calf triplets.

“The assumption is that the female has actually got defective reproductive organs, so we would generally recommend that female should not be kept in the herd, because they’re likely to not turn into a productive female,” Professor Mansell said.

Wilma and Betty did not respond to requests for comment.

THE NATION'S ACTION TRACK!

WINTONRACEWAY.COM.AU

WINTON TEST & TUNE DAYS

Test & Tune days are held for the preparation and setting up of race cars, as well as enabling race competitors to gain practice driving on a race circuit.

Book: wintonraceway.com.au/events

WHATS

1stWinton Test & Tune - BOOK NOW!

2ndTrack For Days

3rdNuggets Nationals

5thWinton Supercars Test - BOOK NOW!

8thWinton Test & Tune - BOOK NOW!

9thPedders No Bull Sprints - ENTER NOW!

10th Private Hire

12th-14th Private Hire

15th-17th Victorian Motor Racing Championship Round 4/Winton 300 - ENTER NOW!

18thWinton Track Day - BOOK NOW!

19th Winton Racecar Test Day - BOOK NOW!

22ndWinton Test & Tune - BOOK NOW!

23rdWinton Fun Day - BOOK NOW!

24thTrackschool Open Pit Lane - BOOK NOW!

25thTrackschool Open Pit Lane - BOOK NOW!

SCAN ME

PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

THREE’S A PARTY: Desire (left) shortly after giving birth to triplets Fred, Wilma and Betty.

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

Email

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

I READ, with delight, the report by Darren Chaitman regarding the recent installation and unveiling of the “magnificent magpie” in Seven Creeks Park.

It’s not before time that this magnificent bird has been recognised in this manner, and I congratulate Strathbogie Shire Council, the Euroa Chamber of Commerce, and Euroa Community Action Group, for their foresight in erecting such a fine statue, superbly created by Tank and Tobin.

While not being a “birdo” or twitcher myself, I do appreciate our feathered friends, and have several different species visit my backyard throughout the year, to feed on my trees and the foods I put out for them.

They are asking politely and reasonably if they can regain some sense of control.

They are requesting a Voice to Parliament regarding the political decisions that directly affect them.

This, I believe, is an entirely reasonable request.

Please vote “yes” in the referendum as a start, to help narrow this terrible gap in health outcomes.

Dr Malcolm Altson, Euroa

Council must explain decision on gate closure

REGARDING the shire depot and subsequent traffic, could the council please explain their reasoning behind closing the access gate for the Euroa depot in Sutherland Street?

From donations of books, furniture and equipment to supporting renovations and upgrades to library infrastructure, and the establishment of your bookshop, the Friends of the Euroa Library has shown what a difference can be made over the course of three decades.

FOLA has sought to provide support for the hundreds of friends groups that, like FOEL, have operated across Australiamostly in rural and regional areas - over the last 30-plus years.

We are so pleased to see the Friends of the Euroa Library continuing to thrive as it heads into its fourth decade.

Jack Goodman, Friends of Libraries Australia president

Too little, too late for V/Line trial

Est. 1897

45-47 Railway Street, Euroa VIC 3666

Classifieds: 5723 0101 Ext 1 or classifieds@nemedia.com.au

General Advertising: 5795 3041 Ext 3

Editorial: 5795 3041 Ext 2 or editor@euroa-gazette.com.au www.euroagazette.com.au www.nemedia.com.au

Follow us

NEWSPAPER DEADLINES:

Display ads - 3pm Thursday

Classifieds - 3pm Monday

Sports results - 10am Monday

General news - 12 noon Friday

Letters - 10am Monday

Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 45-47 Railway Street, Euroa, 3666.

Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner.

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

YOUR GAZETTE TEAM

Painted lorikeets, eastern rosellas and red wattle birds all visit from time to time to enjoy the treed sanctuary of my backyard (somewhat of a rarity in today’s suburbia), and, of course, the “maggies” – a thirdgeneration family, which I am now able to hand-feed.

Congratulations, again, to all concerned, and kudos to Mr Chaitman for his in-depth report, well-supported by the photos of your newest “resident”, gazing imperiously over his (her?) new domain.

John Kruger, St Albans

Health is at stake in the Voice referendum

THE recognition of an Indigenous Voice to Parliament is a health issue.

There is a 45-year gap in life expectancy between the APY homelands, a group of remote Aboriginal communities in northern South Australia, and the people living in the longest-living postcodes in Australia.

Unbelievable, but true.

“Locus of control” has been shown to be an independent determinant of health.

This is the ability to have a say on how you manage your and your family’s lives.

The less control that people have, the worse their health outcomes.

This was taken away from our First Nation peoples and they have been told what to do ever since.

It is about 100m from Euroa-Shepparton Road, the main road, but have all council vehicles accessing via Sutherland St for nearly its entire length and then into Graham Street.

Sutherland St would be one of the roughest streets in Euroa.

Yes, there is a degree of vehicle traffic using Sutherland Street, on sale day or the businesses over Graham Street, but not six and eight times a day, and that is just the shire trucks.

There is no logical reason why access to the depot has been changed to use a residential street to this extent.

I pose this question, as I am sure affected residents would appreciate an explanation.

Peter Gregson, Euroa

Congratulations to Friends of the Euroa Library on 30 years

I WRITE on behalf of Friends of Libraries Australia (FOLA) to congratulate the Friends of the Euroa Library for their exceptional result as they celebrate their 30th anniversary.

The Friends movement has proved to be of enormous value across Australia, and nowhere more so than in rural and regional communities such as Euroa.

When individuals who are passionate about their local library join together, the results can be incredible.

FOLLOWING months of disastrous rail service in the North East that has left countless local commuters standing or without a ride at all, the Labor government announced this week it would trial a reserved-only service on weekends for the Albury line beginning from September 2.

It is good news to see the government finally acknowledges there are serious issues with overcrowding on our trains, but this will not address the issue at all.

In fact, for some it will probably make it worse.

The number of passengers that need to use the trains does not change.

But now instead of being first in, best dressed, it will just be first booked, best dressed.

For those that need to travel on short notice, this could be devastating.

Locals going to Melbourne for desperate health care will be booked out of luck.

The solution is simple: we need more services each day, and nothing else will solve this.

Too often I hear of passengers missing health appointments, elderly and pregnant passengers travelling hours standing up or others not being able to get home.

Some 150,000 passengers have travelled on the Albury Line since the fare reductions were introduced, now it’s time we made sure passengers could travel comfortably.

We need a real solution.

Annabelle Cleeland MP, Member for Euroa

Edward Higgins DIRECTOR Lorraine Millard ADVERTISING ACCOUNTS MANAGER

ON SALE AT:

Dale Mann PHOTOGRAPHER

Darren Chaitman JOURNALIST Daniel Godsmark SPORT EDITORIAL

Euroa: Euroa Newsagency

Violet Town: Violet Town Corner Store

Avenel: Avenel Newsagency

Benalla: Benalla Newsagency

Strathbogie: Strathbogie Store

Nagambie: Nagambie Newsagency

Longwood: Longwood Newsagency

Merton: Merton General Store

Seymour: Seymour Newsagency

Shepparton: Lovell’s Newsagency

Wangaratta: Edgar’s Newsagency

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

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

Member

The magpie’s time has finally come

CHECKING US OUT: Dozens of people wearing high-vis orange vests and safety helmets could be seen walking around Euroa last Wednesday. Accompanied by ARTC representatives, they were from construction firms CPB Contractors, John Holland and McConnell Dowell, assessing the site of Euroa’s future railway precinct. These companies were recently shortlisted to bid for the final eight Inland Rail projects in Victoria, and are developing their final design and construct tender submissions.

PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

Here for You

Celebrating Tradies National Health Month at Bunnings!

BOLO AUGUST REPORT

(Be On the Look Out)

Chickenpox is caused by the varicellazoster virus that is a highly contagious infection. Symptoms appear around two to three weeks after exposure, including mild fever, headache, runny nose, sore throat, and a distinctive skin rash. Diagnosis is typically done by a doctor using laboratory tests. Most cases are mild and self-resolved, with symptom management involving rest, hydration, fever control with paracetamol, using calamine lotion for itch relief, and considering measures like wearing mittens to prevent scratching, especially for infants. For more information, head to https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/ health/conditionsandtreatments/mea sles

MEASLES

Be mindful of mould

Mould, a type of fungi thriving in damp environments, can be found on various surfaces like plants, animals, wood, and fabrics. It appears as fuzzy or stained patches, commonly in black, green, or white, and can lead to respiratory problems while exacerbating asthma and allergies. To manage indoor mould, repair leaks, use exhaust fans, enhance ventilation, and keep furniture away from walls. In case of spotting mould, prompt cleaning is advised. If health issues arise, seek medical guidance from a local GP or contact NURSE-ONCALL at 1300 60 60 24 or GP Online.

August is Tradies National Health Month and GVPHU put the spotlight on the hardworking tradies in our region by partnering with Bunnings Warehouses in our catchment. The team provided information to local tradies on the risks of vaping, local connections on support for positive mental health and informed approaches to healthy eating. Bunnings provided the wholesome breakfast to keep their energy levels up! GVPHU reminds our tradies and all of our community that a healthy mind and body are the most valuable tools on the job.

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that goes beyond just a rash and fever, potentially leading to severe complications like pneumonia and encephalitis. While Australia experiences few cases due to widespread vaccination, awareness remains important. The virus spreads through coughs and sneezes, particularly affecting unvaccinated people, those with weak immune systems, young children, and pregnant women. If infected, stay home for four days after the rash starts and until recovery. The best defence is vaccination – two doses offer protection to 99% of vaccinated individuals. For more information, head to:

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/ health/conditionsandtreatments/chic kenpox

VARICELLA (chicken pox / shingles)

Pat Farmer headed to Violet Town for “yes” campaign

By KATE STOTHERS

PAT Farmer is an ultramarathon runner, motivational speaker and former Member of the House of Representatives representing the Liberal Party of Australia.

He is currently on a 14,400 run around Australia to raise awareness about the importance of the upcoming referendum on the Voice to Parliament and constitutional recognition for Aboriginal

and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Pat is a multi world recorder holder for endurance running.

He has run from the North to the South Pole, the length of India and Vietnam, through the Middle East, across and around Australia and around America.

Pat is leading this current run around Australia to raise awareness, support and engagement for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

Voice to Parliament.

He will run into Violet Town on Tuesday, September 5 after completing about 70km that day.

There will be a gathering with Pat and other speakers at the Community Complex in Cowslip Street, Violet Town starting at 5pm that evening.

Please come along and hear from this inspirational person and learn more about why this issue is so important for our country.

ON this week 50 years ago, a successful spring show was held by the Euroa Garden Club, featuring a “delightful display of camellias and daffodils”.

As usual, the Gazette’s gossip columnist Snoopy had much to report on August 29, 1973.

“Johnny Schneeberger, proud of a new car, took a car to a garage for its first 500 mile service,” Snoopy wrote in one of his many short missives.

“He need not have bothered yet as the speedometer is in the metric system and shows kilometres instead of miles.”

Over 70 children paraded for the judges at the Euroa Youth Club fancy dress ball.

Some familiar names are seen in a list of the competition winners, like “tiny tot” Helen Brook with her Mini Mouse dress-up, who today manages the Euroa Farmers Market.

Pasture seed was in short supply in Victoria due to the effect of the 1972 drought.

Maurice Stanley Paul Lester of Euroa was sentenced to one month in jail for car stealing, unlicensed driving and stealing property.

It was alleged that Lester stole a ute belonging to Euroa’s Neil Mintern from the North Eastern Hotel, then “tried to sell the car to

a couple of boys”. There were many tributes in the paper for Joseph Halsall, who passed away the week before.

SPECIAL CATTLE SALE

Wednesday 6th September 2023 at North East Store Sale Centre Commencing at 9.00am (New Time)

WEANERS

WATSON PARK, TRENTHAM ...........................NUT

80 ANGUS M/S, 7-8 MTHS, NEWNHAM & MORANDING BLD, WEANED, VB, GF

GOORAM SPRINGS, GOORAM..........................NUT

50 ANGUS & B/B M/S, 7-8 MTHS, PRIME ANGUS & MILLA MURRAH

BLD, YARD WEANED, VB, GF

FHN ANGUS, ALEXANDRA ............................NUT

45 ANGUS M/S, 9-10 MTHS, RIDDLEVUE & KELLY ANGUS BLD, WEANED, VB, GF

BYLANDS CREEK PASTORAL, GLENAROUA...............NUT

40 ANGUS M/S, WITHERSWOOD & LANDFALL BLD, VB, GF

GALLS GAP FARM, STRATHBOGIE ......................NUT

40 ANGUS M/S, 11-12 MTHS, ADAMELUCA BLD, WEANED, VB, GF

W & D MACKRELL, STRATHBOGIE .....................ROD

30 ANGUS X M/S, 11-12 MTHS, YARD WEANED

G & L JOHNSTON, SPRINGFIELD ......................ROD

30 ANGUS M/S, 11-12 MTHS, BY CONNAMARA ANGUS BULL, WEANED

LES VEARING, GOORAM ..............................NUT

30 ANGUS & ANGUS X M/S, 10-12 MTHS, RENNYLEA BLD, WEANED, VB, GF

GOORAM ESTATE, GOORAM ...........................NUT

30 ANGUS STEERS, 11-12 MTHS, CONNAMARA BLD, WEANED, VB, GF

N. MAHNCKE .......................................ELD

30 ANGUS M/S, VB, GF

GIBSON PARK, SHEANS CREEK ........................NUT

20 CHAROLAIS X M/S, RANGAN BLD, WEANED, VB, GF

8 ANGUS STEERS, CONNAMARA BLD, WEANED, VB, GF

*CURFEW 3.30PM Tuesday*

PINE RIDGE, YAN YEAN ...............................NUT

25 ANGUS M/S, MERRIDALE BLD, YARD WEANED, VB, GF RIGGS CREEK PARK, RIGGS CREEK .....................NUT

25 ANGUS X M/S, 7-8 MTHS, NEWBLAX BLD, WEANED, VB, GF BURNVIEW ANGUS, MOGLONEMBY .....................NUT

20 ANGUS STEERS, 12 MTHS, MARGNI PARK BLD, WEANED, VB, GF STRATHVIEW, WHITTLESEA ...........................NUT

20 ANGUS M/S, CONNAMARA BLD, VB, GF KEEYUGA PASTORAL, GLENAROUA .....................NUT

20 ANGUS M/S, WITHERSWOOD & LANDFALL BLD, VB, GF RIVER GUM PAST CO, UNDERA ........................NUT

10 ANGUS STEERS, 10-11 MTHS, CONNAMARA BLD, VB, GF VALLEY VIEW, PYALONG ..............................NUT

10 ANGUS STEERS, CONNAMARA BLD, VB, GF VERGE PASTORAL, MAY PARK ........................ROD

10 B/B STEERS, 11 MTHS, BY DUNOON ANGUS BULL, YARD WEANED JUNE

WHARNLEYSIDE ....................................ELD

10 CHAROLAIS STEERS, TARCOMBE BLD, WEANED, VB, GF GROWN CATTLE

NEWBLAX, EUROA ...................................NUT

50 ANGUS & ANGUS X STEERS, 15 MTHS, NEWBLAX BLD, WEANED, VB, GF

WATSON PARK, TRENTHAM ...........................NUT

40 ANGUS HEIFERS, 15 MTHS, NEWNHAM BLD, WEANED, VB, GF MONUMENT VALLEY CHAROLAIS, TATONG ...............NUT

15 CHAROLAIS STEERS, 12-15 MTHS, BY MONUMENT VALLEY BULLS, VB, GF

10 ANGUS STEERS, 2 YRS, GF GOULBURN PARK, WAHRING ..........................NUT

24 SPECKLE & SPECKLE X HEIFERS, 15 MTHS, WEANED, VB, GF HELEN MCKERNAN, BALMATTUM ......................NUT

18 HEREFORD STEERS, 15-20 MTHS, BY TARCOMBE BULLS, VB, GF PARKLEA, NAGAMBIE ...............................ROD

10 ANGUS HEIFERS, 15-16 MTHS

PINDARI BOHO PASTORAL COMPANY ..................ROD

10 ANGUS M/S, 15-16 MTHS, BY NEWNHAM ANGUS BULLS JOINED FEMALES

NINE MILE FARM, NUMURKAH .........................NUT

12 ANGUS X COWS, 1-2 CALVERS, DEP TO MARGNI PARK BULL, TO C.C. SEPT/OCT COWS & CALVES

COLIN STRAY, SEYMOUR .............................NUT

15 ANGUS COWS, 2ND CALVERS WITH ANGUS CAF, REDEP TO LAWSONS ANGUS BULL 13/4/23 TO C.C JAN 2024, PTIC.

TIEGAR PARK, BALMATTUM ...........................NUT

5 SHORTHORN X HEIFERS WITH 3-4 MTH CAF, REDEP TO SAME BULL SINCE CALVING

5 SHORTHORN X MIXED AGE COWS WITH 3-4 MTH CAF, REDEP TO SAME BULL SINCE CALVING

RUNNING INTO VIOLET TOWN: Pat Farmer will run into Violet Town on Tuesday, September 5 to raise awareness about the Voice to Parliament.

Way Back Wednesday - a look back at what was making news 50 years ago this week.

“Yes” corflutes in Euroa allegedly vandalised and stolen

By DARREN CHAITMAN

CORFLUTES in Euroa promoting the Voice to Parliament Yes vote have allegedly been vandalised on four recent occasions, and then stolen, according to Euroa’s Kate Auty.

Ms Auty said on the first three occasions, the word “no” was allegedly painted or spray-painted over the signs, which are located at the vacant lot at the back of the North Eastern Hotel.

She and her partner Charlie Brydon cleaned the paint off on these occasions.

Shortly after the signs had been cleaned again on Thursday last week, the signs were allegedly cut with a knife or sharp instrument.

“The use of a knife sharp enough to cut a corflute is concerning,” Ms Auty said.

Ms Auty and Mr Brydon repaired the signs the following day.

On Monday, the repaired signs had disappeared and Ms Auty alleges they were taken.

She alleges the vandalism and theft incidents had all occurred at night and took place on the vacant lot,

which is part of a privately owned property.

The owners of the lot were not available to speak to The Euroa Gazette by the time of going to press.

The incident had not been reported to police at the time The Euroa Gazette spoke to Ms Auty.

“It’s targeted, it’s divisive, it’s unpleasant,” Ms Auty said.

“If they’ve got an issue, [they should] put their own sign up.”

Avenel residents encouraged to use free community bus

AVENEL Active is encouraging more residents to use its weekly community bus service to Seymour.

The volunteer-operated “Get Me to the Shops!” community bus runs every Thursday morning, taking passengers from Avenel to the Seymour shopping centre.

“We provide a door-to-door service,” volunteer driver Jim Billings said.

“We collect our passengers from their homes, help them with shopping in Seymour if needed, and drop everyone off back to their homes.”

Volunteers are also available each week to help passengers with getting on and off the bus and any other assistance needed in Seymour.

Some passengers also use the service to attend medical appointments, go for a swim, or to catch up with friends.

“We meet up at a coffee shop in Seymour each week before returning to Avenel,” Mr Billings said.

“So it’s a great opportu-

nity to catch up with your neighbours, as well as get to the shops.”

The community bus is supported in 2023-24 by the Australian Government’s Volunteer Grants program.

“There are very few train services each day from Avenel and no public bus services at all,” Avenel Active secretary Helen Gwilliam said.

“Get Me to the Shops! offers a much needed service for non-drivers and those who may need assistance with shopping to get to Seymour each week.”

The community bus runs every Thursday morning, picking up residents from their homes in Avenel at around 9.15am and returning at around 11.30am.

The service is open to all Avenel residents, of all ages. The return trip from Avenel to Seymour costs $5 only. For enquiries and bookings call Jim Billings 0433 270 101 or email avenelactiveinc@ gmail.com.

Shannon Lane closed to public access

SHANNON Lane in Euroa is no longer open for public access after Strathbogie

Shire Council came to a mutual agreement with the lane’s owner Jimmy Davidson to exit the lease early.

Prior to being closed on Friday last week, some locals would park their cars in the Euroa Hotel carpark and use the connected lane as a walkway to access Binney Street.

As a result of the lane closing, this option will no longer be available for accessing Binney Street, which at busy times suffers from a lack of parking spots.

Political graffiti appears on Euroa Third Age Club

By DARREN CHAITMAN

GRAFFITI with a message disparaging Mayor Laura Binks and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has appeared on the Euroa Third Age Club building on Kirkland Avenue, Euroa.

The graffiti on the council-owned building was

seen by The Euroa Gazette on Monday, May 28.

Third Age Club president Pam Vaughan was disappointed to hear the news.

“They don’t have to like the government or the council, but they could leave other things alone,” Ms Vaughan said.

“It’s more that we are going to have to fix up now.”

Mayor Binks struck a wry note in a comment made to this masthead.

“I’m proud to be mentioned alongside another Australian leader who recognises the importance of equality throughout our nation,” she said.

The Euroa Third Age Club building has not been used since it was damaged in the October 2022 floods.

The building is almost directly across the road from the Euroa Police Station.

Euroa Police were not available to comment by the time of going to print.

Mr Davidson said he purchased the lane – which is in between Indian restaurant Northern Rasoi and SKM Hairdressing – three years ago as an investment, with the intention of building on the land when the council’s lease expired.

The singer and entertainer plans to build a hall in the space, which could be used an entertainment and events venue.

“I think it’ll benefit Euroa – [it’s] another hall, we have a shortage of halls and entertainment venues here,” Mr Davidson said.

Now the council is no longer leasing the lane, Mr

Davidson said he would be liable for legal damages if an individual were to be injured at the site, which is why he blocked the lane off from public access at the advice of his insurer.

Council’s lease of the lane was due to expire soon, but they agreed to exit the lease early at his request.

Euroa Chamber of Commerce president Steph Swift said the chamber plans to talk to council about opportunities for more parking spaces around Binney Street.

“If that accessibility has been taken away, there’s not much we can do about that now, but we will endeavour to find other options and other opportunities,” Ms Swift said.

“So we’ll contact council about that and hopefully we can provide another access point for pedestrians.”

Council confirmed they terminated the lease of Shannons Lane but did not respond to a question asking why they agreed to exit the lease early.

“We encourage people parking in Binney Street to abide by the two-hour parking limit to ensure regular movement and parking availability,” Mayor Laura Binks said.

CUT: On the most recent occasion, vandals allegedly cut the corflutes. Euroa’s Charlie Brydon is pictured with a cut sign.

PAINTED OVER: Vandals allegedly spray-painted “no” over corflutes in Euroa advertising the “yes” vote.

PHOTOS: Kate Auty

GRAFFITI IN EUROA: Disparaging political graffiti has appeared on the Euroa Third Age Club building on Kirkland Avenue.

KEEP OUT: Shannon Lane in Euroa is no longer open for public access.

September

4 Longwood Senior’s monthly two course luncheon held at Longwood Community Centre at $12.30pm - all seniors welcome. Cost per head $16. Enq: Margaret 0407 529 991.

16 RUFFARTZ presents Sass and Secrets. A wickedly funny cabaret featuring awe inspiring magic, mentalism, fabulous singing and physical comedy mayhem! Not to be missed. Ruffy Public Hall. Doors open 7.30pm. Performance commences 8pm. Reservations: Email Kelly: ruffartztickets@ gmail.com or Mob: 0407 017 090. Adults $25, Students/Pensioners $15. BYO Nibbles and drinks. Coffee and cake available at intermission $5.

25 Euroa Probus Club provides you with the opportunity to join a social club in your local community to meet retirees on a regular basis, listen to interesting speakers and join together in activities. Meetings are held 4th Monday of each month, 10am at Uniting Church Hall, Kirkland Ave Euroa. Enq: Fred 0408 443 288 or Stan 0427 884 075.

October

2 Longwood Senior’s monthly two course luncheon held at Longwood Community Centre at $12.30pm - all seniors welcome. Cost per head $16. Enq: Margaret 0407 529 991.

20-22

Euroa Golf Club are hosting the Power Industry association (PIA) Golf State Championships for 150 golfers. This event was washed out last year. The golf course will be closed to members and green fee players on these days.

23 Euroa Probus Club provides you with the opportunity to join a social club in your local community to meet retirees on a regular basis, listen to interesting speakers and join together in activities. Meetings are held 4th Monday of each month, 10am at Uniting Church Hall, Kirkland Ave Euroa. Enq: Fred 0408 443 288 or Stan 0427 884 075.

28-29

“Long Walk” to Canberra to stop in Nagambie

FORMER Essendon player Michael Long will stop in Nagambie on Friday on his walk from Melbourne to Canberra in support of the Yes campaign for the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum.

He began his 650km walk on Sunday, August 27, at Melbourne Town Hall and he expects to arrive in Canberra on September 14. It is Mr Long’s second “Long Walk”, having walked from Melbourne to Canberra in 2004

to see then Prime Minister John Howard, to get Indigenous issues back on the national agenda. He will also visit Violet Town for breakfast at about 9am on Friday, where he will be joined by Indi MP Helen Haines.

Contact Kate Stothers on 0436 471

for Violet Town details. Mr Long is inviting everyone to join his walk this year. You can register to join the walk at https://thelongwalk.com. au/.

“Serious fashionistas” put on a stylish show

By LISA JENSEN

VIOLET Town Community House, in partnership with the Violet Town Op Shop, put on a fabulous afternoon tea and fashion parade with some stunning clothes from our little Op Shop on Tuesday last week in the Violet Town Hall. Guests were treated to a delicious afternoon tea and relaxed into a performance from some serious fashionistas.

Our special guest was a little old lady called Mavis from just out of Violet Town.

She was treated to a makeover and had the guest thoroughly enthralled and amused.

Huge thanks to all the volunteers, the food makers and models, the packer uppers and downers, and for the donations for the raffle prizes: Monkey Business, Violet Town Café and the Jackson’s Produce Store.

IN

Euroa Agricultural Society Inc will hold the 131st Euroa Agricultural Show.

November

4-7

Strathbogie “Cup Weekend” Festival 4 days of fun and events.

www.strathbogiecupweekendfestival.com

6 Longwood Senior’s monthly two course luncheon held at Longwood Community Centre at $12.30pm - all seniors welcome. Cost per head $16. Enq: Margaret 0407 529 991.

December

4 Longwood Senior’s Christmas Luncheon which is fantastic, held at the Longwood Community Centre. All seniors welcome. Enq: Margaret 0407 529 991.

SENIOR ADVENTURES: Longwood Seniors had a filling lunch and stopped at a chocolate factory and winery on their recent bus trip to Yarra Glen.

Longwood Seniors adventure to Yarra Glen

By JOHN MACKLIN

THEY do it again, Longwood Seniors go on another adventure.

At 9am on Wednesday last week, Cardwell’s bus arrived at the courthouse to pick the adventurers up.

After boarding the bus, the bus ventured down the highway. By 11am, we arrived at the big chocolate factory in Yarra Glen.

After everyone stocked up with a fair supply of chocolate, they also had a huge display of a big variety of ice cream and their serves

were very big.

The bus then went on to the Yarra Valley Grand Hotel for a very filling lunch; we had 10 different meals to choose from.

After the meal, which took about one and a half hours, we started to head back home.

We did not get far as the bus pulled into De Bortoli’s winery; that put a smile on some of the seniors’ faces.

We headed home with smiles still on our faces as we had a very enjoyable day, and the club picked up a couple of new members.

IN VOGUE: Wendy McLaughlin tore up the runway in this stylish get-up.

FASHIONISTA: “Serious fashionista” are the only words to describe Jen Wilson.

DISGUISE: Sheryl Taylor and “Mavis” (Audra Kunciunas).

433

Nagambie garden to be dedicated to the late Queen Elizabeth II

Dedication to take place on September 8, the first anniversary of the Queen’s passing

By DIANE GRANT

THE Nagambie community has undertaken a Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Rose Garden project over the past two months.

Local groups were invited to donate a standard rose and metal post and a small amount to a memorial plaque for the commemoration of our Queen who served us for over 70 years.

Strathbogie Shire Council’s parks and gardens team and the office have supported the idea.

The parks men dug the bed in the High Street nature reserve near the water tower recently.

Some 15 donor groups (including some individuals) have donated a rose for this memorial.

The weather was cool on August 18, when Michael Smith, Mick Burns and I marked out the garden bed and placed the pots in their positions for planting.

Around 10.30am three Nagambie Primary School representatives, Helen Heathcote (senior Australian of the year Australia Day recipient

2023), Brodie Miller (junior citizen of the year), shire-wide Australia Day recipient 2023 and school student Julian Aisbett-Wray planted the primary school’s “all gold” rose.

Then a small working bee of volunteers came along from the men’s shed, RSL, community house, senior citizens and Anglican Church, and within two hours all the donated roses were sorted, planted and staked, and labelled with donor groups and individual names.

The garden looks good and it will be dedicated on Friday, September 8 at 11am.

Thanks to Strathbogie Shire Council staff, Bob Slater, donors Julie Cubbins of Bloomin Natives, Go Nagambie (Nagambie Lakes Tourism and Commerce), Nagambie Primary School, Nagambie Lakes Men’s Shed, Nagambie Senior Citizens Club, Nagambie Lakes Community House, Nagambie RSL, Anglican Mother’s Union, Nagambie Football and Netball Club, Nagambie and District Historical Society, Kelvin Grove Village-Boyle family, Cathy Lawrence and Di and John Grant, Nagambie Mechanics Institute

and Nagambie Rowing Club, who have taken this royal project on board.

A memorial plaque will be placed in the garden before the ceremony.

September 8 is the first year anniversary since Queen Elizabeth II passed away in September 2022.

The dedication ceremony will be conducted by the Anglican minister of St John’s Nagambie, Rev Richard Pennington.

An invitation is extended to all donor groups and their members, individuals and their families, and community folk to attend this momentous community project dedication.

Thanks to everyone who has supported this community project.

The community spirit has been great.

PLANTING ROSES FOR THE QUEEN: The Nagambie Primary School trio who represented the school at the Queen Elizabeth II memorial rose garden planting: Brodie Miller (left), Helen Heathcote and Julian Aisbett-Wray.

PHOTO: Diane Grant

pp,yQpg

St Paul’s Anglican Church priest reflects on his first months in Euroa

By ANDRE DU PLOOY

I AM the new priest at St Paul’s Anglican Church in Euroa and August completes my fourth month in this quaint little village.

I have moved from Kilmore, which means “great (big) church” in the Gaelic language, to Euroa, which comes from an Aboriginal word, meaning “joyful.”

In the first weeks I found the transition challenging, for Euroa is very rural and the faith communities I serve covers a wide area.

From Violet Town to Longwood, Murchison to Rushworth and Euroa.

My instinct to get tucked into the ministry I am called to, often becomes the safe space that prevents the exploration of any new environment.

In June, my son, his wife, and grandchildren came to stay with us, which changed our lives completely.

I had to discover what being a grandfather is like.

Frankly, they started to explore Euroa and introduced Patty (my wife) and I to the events in Euroa.

We are now doing parkrun/ walks on Saturdays.

Connecting with people in the community and with the

schools on our daily rounds.

Patty and I had the pleasure of the hospitality of a few members of the community which we truly enjoyed.

Euroa has much to offer.

I am sure to discover in the coming months.

St Paul’s Anglican Church is a unique place in Euroa.

Dad talk: the top podcasts for fathers

BEING a dad brings unique experiences and challenges, and these days, there are plenty of dads talking all about it.

These are some of the top dad-themed podcasts for dads and dads-to-be, which you can find on your favourite podcasting app.

GRANDPARENTS: Andre Du Plooy (right) in Euroa with his visiting family members; his son Bertram (left), daughterin-law Lee-Ann, wife Patty, and grandkids Oliver and Willow.

Dad in Progress

ONE for the new dads, it’s hosted by fresh-to-fatherhood suburban dad Raph Dixon, and features chats with to other dads, parenting experts, psychologists and some familiar voices like Aaron Gocs, Osher Gunsberg, Archie Thompson and Clarke Gayford as they navigate the challenges of being a dad in the 21st century.

It has a labyrinth which any member in the community is welcome to walk.

Then there is the amazing church organ, which has historical significance, unique to Euroa.

Sadly, it is seldom heard, it is hardly being played.

This might be its loss for the church and for the community.

So much potential and opportunity out there.

If only we dare to explore.

Birth, Baby and Beyond with Midwife Cath and Chris Taylor

TAKE the midwife Cath Curtain who has delivered thousands of babies over her famed 47-year career, and add the journey to fatherhood of Chris Taylor, the Australian creative who’s best known as a member of The Chaser team and as creator and producer of the Foxtel/Binge drama Upright starring Tim Minchin.

What’s the result?

A new season of Birth, Baby and Beyond, a podcast for new parents, but this time, it’s through the lens of a dad.

Dr Golly and the Experts

AN inspiring listen for dad, Dr Daniel Golshevsky (Dr Golly) talks with “experts” – parents who have, through necessity, become a specialist in their child’s or their own health journey, from diagnosis to day-to-day treatment and beyond.

The stories are told through the voices and hearts of high-profile Australians as they talk to Dr Golly, a Melbourne-based paediatrician, former chief resident medical officer at The Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne and father of three.

Guests include AFL great Jonathan Brown as well as players Jordan Lewis and Jarryd Roughhead, fitness guru Tiffany Hall, Australian sports broadcaster Hamish McLachlan, stay at home dad Josh Miller and more.

Dadtime Story Collection

SOME famous dads and uncles have been enlisted to help dads out at bedtime – Ed Kavalee, Andy Lee, Sean Szeps, Waleed Aly, Chris Taylor and more read classic bedtime stories, including Possum Magic, The Speedy Sloth, My Shadow is Purple, Bush Magic and Do Not Open This Book.

Caitlin’s gold in cheer nationals Father’s Day

Father’s Day came early for proud dad Phil yyp

By DARREN CHAITMAN

EUROA’S Caitlin Crowe has brought home gold for Victoria for the second consecutive year from the Schoolaerobics Australian National Championships.

The 15-year-old FCJ College Benalla student competed in Adelaide earlier this month in cheer dance, an aerobic exercise similar to cheerleading.

“It was very exciting – we didn’t know if we’d win, because we watched the other team and they looked really good,” Caitlin said.

Her team of 17 competitors, named “Triple Zero”, represented Revival Aerobics Studio in Shepparton, where Caitlin trains every week.

True to the team’s name, the cheer routine took on the theme of “emergency services” and was performed to a mix of songs about police, fire and ambulance, such as the “Fireman Sam” theme song, “Help Is On Its Way” by Little River Band and “Emergency” by Icona Pop.

Sean Reynolds, the team’s coach and the owner of Revival Aerobics Studio, said their routine was judged to be superior to that of their opponents, a South Australian team.

“There are two judges: they look at technique – how high you can jump, how high your hips are, how straight your legs are – and the other judge looks at artistic, which is the arm lines, the creativity of the routine and the theme,” he said.

Mr Reynolds said the win was all the more special given the challenge of pulling

off a cohesive performance with a large team of 17 competitors.

“It’s a lot harder to make 17 people at all different abilities, heights, all work together and move as one, and I think we did a pretty good job of delivering that.”

He said Caitlin had done a “fantastic” job after coming from a junior cheerleading background.

“She’s improved heaps – her coordination’s improved, even flexibility,” Mr Reynolds said.

“She’s made lots of friends – Revival’s a home for a lot of these kids, or a second home at least, and I think she fits in perfectly with us.”

Caitlin said she started cheerleading when she was three years old.

“When I was three until when I was about eight I did all-star cheerleading, which is a different type of cheerleading, and I’d always wanted to do it since we moved here,” she said.

“So when I heard that there was a cheerleading

thing, I tried it out.

“It was different, but I liked the people there and I liked what we did.”

Caitlin said “being with everyone else” had been the highlight of her time in Adelaide.

“It was very fun – performing on stage and getting to watch everyone else,” she said.

“And just being at that top level.”

She was accompanied in Adelaide by her parents, Lisa and Phil Crowe.

Father’s Day came early this year for Phil, who beamed with pride throughout his daughter’s interview and said he was “just elated” by her win.

“[We’re] just so proud of her,” he said.

“She’s got no friends from school that do it – she plays netball and basketball with friends at school – it’s something that she wants to do of her own volition.

“So, anything that she wants to do like that, we will support her 100 per cent.”

CHEER DANCE WITH URGENCY: Caitlin’s team’s winning cheer routine took on the theme of “emergency services” and was performed to a mix of songs about police, fire and ambulance.

TWO YEARS IN A ROW: 15-year-old Caitlin Crowe, pictured in her home in Euroa, brought home gold for Victoria for the second consecutive year from the Schoolaerobics Australian National Championships.

PHOTO: Darren Chaitman

Church Services

ANGLICAN CHURCH

Sunday 3rd September

8am St Andrew’s Longwood 9.15am St Paul’s Euroa

Wednesday 6th September

10am Eucharist St Paul’s Euroa

Enq: 5704 0330

www.anglicaneuroa.org.au

All welcome

BAPTIST CHURCH

31 Kennedy Street, Euroa

Sunday September 3rd, 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 September 3rd

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 6pm Vigil Mass in St. John’s Church

St Malachy’s, Nagambie

Monday 10.30am Rosary

Wednesday 12.30pm Mass

Mass on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month at 9am

Liturgy of the Word and Holy Communion on the 2nd, 4th and 5th

Sunday of the month at 9am

St Attracta’s, Violet Town Mass on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 11am Mass on the 5th Sunday at 10am

Liturgy of the Word and Holy Communion on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month at 11am

St Mary’s, Avenel

Mass on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month at 11am

Liturgy of the Word and Holy Communion on the 2nd, 4th and 5th

Sunday of the month at11am.

St Patrick’s, Longwood Mass on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 9am

Liturgy of the Word and Holy Communion on the 1st, 3rd and 5th

Sunday of the month at 9am

Enquiries: Fr Tony Hill 5795 3048

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

Vale Frank Staples

Remembering a legendary confectionary and loved community member ggyyy

By DIANE GRANT

FRANK Staples was a

well known member of the Nagambie Community for close to 34 years.

At his funeral held recently it was said that success is not measured in wealth accumulation, but satisfaction, friendships formed, peace of mind, charity, respect and family love.

That describes Frank’s life.

Frank was born in 1931 and was the second child to Frank and Hazel Staples.

He attended school in Oakleigh.

His first job was as a confectioner, which he enjoyed so much he did it right up until he was 85, making various goodies to sell at the Nagambie market where people came from as far as Wodonga just to buy his peanut brittle.

He was also a good sportsman, playing football against the likes of Tom Hafey the Richmond legend as a junior.

He played in the centre and vaguely remembered being cleaned up by Hafey before half time and didn’t remember the rest of the game.

He was also a very good ten pin bowler and reached a top score of over 250.

He loved fishing and gardening, spending hours each day perfecting the right amount of everything to make his garden the best, especially his roses.

His first marriage finished in 1966 to Betty Minihan and in 1968 he met Iris.

They went out and the rest is history.

Frank and Iris loved to travel all around Australia, usual-

REST IN PEACE: Iris with her husband Frank Staples (26 June 1931 – 19 August 2023).

ly driving, and they travelled around parts of the world to places most people only dream of going to.

He was a manager at Darrell Lea (in Melbourne and Sydney), James Chocolates, Red Tulip, then factory manager of Smith’s (potato chips) in Brunswick and Europe bars in Moorabbin.

THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK: Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone.

PERSONALS: Birthday greetings go to John Hilton, Celina Hill, Cheryl Evans, Elaine Bruce, Debra-Lea Ringin, Martin Coll, Sarah Sidebottom, Kylie Hogan, Jarrod Melican, Julie Melican, Travis Hogan and Bev Kilpatrick.

Happy 55th anniversary to Helen and Derrick Boyd and happy 33rd anniversary to Leanne and Bart O’Sullivan.

Sympathy goes to the family and friends of Frank Staples who passed away recently.

SPRING HAS SPRUNG: As John and I travelled back down from Queensland we saw sugar cane fields, banana plantations, bright canola crops in paddocks, and olive groves and pine forests.

But the wattles all down the entire trip in from Bundaberg, through NSW and the ACT to home were beautiful.

Then the blossom trees in Canberra Gundagai, Albury and in Nagambie really made us realise that spring had sprung.

My daffodils have been out for ages and the camellias in our village look beautiful too.

May you enjoy the spring growth and nicer weather now, too.

THANKS TO OUR UNSUNG HEROES: Before I went away on my bucket list trip recently I had some health problems, again.

But I managed them while away and now, this past week have had medical treatments, tests, and hospitalisation for a procedure but still have a way to go yet.

I would like to thank my Nagambie GPs

The recipes used by Molly Bushell were all developed by Frank, as well as Red Tulip’s peanut brittle, along with dozens if not hundreds of other lolly recipes he developed. He was rated as one of the top five confectioners in Australia and travelled Australia as Mr Molly Bushell making high boil confectionery by

NAGAMBIE NOTES

with Di Grant

P: 5794 1720

E: stardust2011@bigpond.com

and staff, I-Med Imaging Shepparton staff, my orthopedic surgeon in Bendigo, my surgeon and anesthetist at Shepparton Private Hospital and their team for their ongoing support to me and everyone who needs their medical support.

They are still, as far as I am concerned, our unsung heroes.

This also includes our doctors, nurses, all hospital, hostel and nursing care staff, ambulance, paramedics, police and CFA personnel.

COMING UP: Avenel Make It, Bake it or Grow It market on the second Sunday of each month.

Tuesday, October 31: Halloween party, so you can get your spooky gear ready for this fun, music and games evening.

It is sponsored by the Nagambie Lakes Community House and will be from 6-8pm at the Mechanics Hall.

All ages welcome, $5 a child, $10 max for a family.

Get more details from the Community House co-ordinator Anna Close on weekdays at 5794 1487 or email nlchouse32@ gmail.com.

CHURCH NEWS: ANGLICAN: September

14: Anglican Mothers Union annual “Morning Melodies” fundraiser at Christ Church Hall Seymour.

hand (barley sugar, humbugs, etc).

Iris and Frank married on December 31, 1983 at their home at Wantirna.

Frank had two sons, Gary and David, and Iris accepted them as her own family and their partners and children over the years.

In 1984, the Staples started to visit the Nagambie Caravan Park and eventually placed their caravan on site there.

A caretaker’s job came up there and they decided to see if they could manage the park. They got the job and they built their own unit near the office.

The Park was owned by Maree and Kel Boyle.

Frank wanted to anchor some roots down in one place. Nagambie was it.

He made confectionary for The Nut House run by Maree Boyle, and started to join in with local community groups and charities.

Frank loved his lawn bowls.

He was also president, curator and green keeper of the Nagambie Bowls Club.

The Nagambie Bowls Club sent their condolences to Frank’s family and a tribute for Frank’s funeral stating the details of his bowling success as a champion, respected member and hard worker for the club until his retirement.

He was team manager for the Nagambie football and netball clubs when he first moved to Nagambie.

Frank passed away quietly after a short illness. Thanks is extended to the Nagambie healthcare staff for their care of him over the past few years.

Rest in peace Frank Staples.

Funds will go towards the Mothers Union to tackle gender-based violence, domestic violence and climate change.

The entertainer will be well known local singer Noel Pearson.

There will be a trading table, raffle, lucky door prizes and lots of fun.

Bookings will be available soon.

CATHOLIC: Services: Nagambie St Malachy’s, Mondays 10.30am and Wednesday noon rosary.

First and third Sundays 9am mass on second, fourth and fiftth Sundays at 11am for word and communion.

Contact W Keenan on 0459 595 908. Avenel St Mary’s on Sundays at 10.30am for rosary.

First and third Sundays 11am mass on second, fourth and fifth Sundays word and wommunion.

Contact G Kenworthy on 0405 125 963.

Contact parish priest Fr A Hill in Euroa on 0439 033 029.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: Nagambie St Andrew’s 9am service first and third Sundays and Seymour every second and fourth Sunday of the month.

Contact W Day on 0429 933 116.

UNITING: Seymour and Avenel Uniting Church.

During winter combined service at 10am Avenel, contact Rev J Payne on 0408 176 754.

NAGAMBIE CONNECT FAITH COMMUNITY: (Uniting Church) second and fourth Sundays at 9.30am, Nagambie Senior Citizens’ Clubrooms.

Contact R Close on 0402 286 277.

Council congratulates Violet Town on making Tidy Towns shortlist

STRATHBOGIE Shire Council has congratulated the Violet Town community on its submission to the Keep Australia Beautiful 2023 Victorian Tidy Towns and Cities Sustainability Awards.

The township entered in all ten of the award categories and were recently

announced as shortlisted entries for seven of these categories.

Mayor Laura Binks said she was proud of the community’s efforts in their application.

“I know this can be a challenging process after preparing the national entry for Euroa last year,”

Cr Binks said.

“It is a real credit to Rebecca Cole who drove the entry for Violet Town and we wish the township all the very best for the next announcement on September 13 when Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria will reveal the finalists.”

Ms Cole said she had been

energised and inspired by Euroa’s results and thought Violet Town also had great things on offer.

“I was able to easily infect a team of community members with my enthusiasm and within the two weeks and many hours work, we had the 10 submissions ready,” Ms Cole said

“A big thank you and shout out to Robbie Rae, Karen Russo, Bruce HuntHughes, Hank Bakker, Marg Crawford, Bruce Cummings, James Howden, Jo Spring and Mayor Laura Binks.

“Without their knowledge and skill, the entry would not have been possible.”

Karen Russo, who also helped with the submissions, said the St Dunstan’s Hall Film Society was delighted be shortlisted for the Tidy Towns and Cities Sustainable category Indigenous Culture after hosting a free NAIDOC Week film screening, ‘A boat with no name’.

Calling all poets: poetry Shepparton competition next week

GOULBURN Valley Libraries

is hoping poets and poetry lovers from across the region will get to Shepparton Library for their annual Poetry Slam event.

The event next week is an opportunity for poets to compete for their chance to be the next Australian Poetry Slam champion. It is an opportunity for poets to compete for their chance to be the next Australian Poetry Slam champion.

Two poets chosen by the Shepparton Library audience will head to the Victorian final for their opportunity to make it through to the national final.

ON NOTICE: Victorian beekeepers have been urged to monitor for varroa mite after the parasite was detected in New South Wales.

Beekeepers urged to watch out for varroa mite

THE State Government have urged beekeepers to be vigilant in monitoring for varroa mite and keep up-to-date with permits, after the mite was detected over the border in New South Wales.

Last week, a new biosecurity emergency order was issued after varroa mite were found in beehives at Euroley in the Riverina and Euston in the Sunraysia region in New South Wales.

New South Wales has attempted to eradicate Varroa mite since it was first detected in Newcastle in 2022.

Victoria’s chief plant health officer Dr Rosa Crnov said no Varroa mite has been found in Victoria.

Varroa mite is a parasite of adult honey bees and honey bee brood, which weakens and kills honey bee colonies and can also transmit honey bee viruses.

The detection of varroa mite in New South Wales comes as Victoria’s almond pollination season in the Sunraysia region is coming to an end, and beekeepers are moving their hives to pollinate other Victorian fruit and crops.

Dr Crnov said Agriculture Victoria biosecurity officers have been on the ground in Sunraysia undertaking targeted surveillance and no Varroa mite was detected.

‘Victoria is committed to the National Response Plan and will be

undertaking further surveillance in the region,” she said.

“We are also working closely with New South Wales to trace beehives and understand their movements.”

Under the nationally agreed response plan, no hives can move within 25km of an infested beehive.

This applies to bee hives located in Victoria that are located within NSW’s 25km zone at Euston.

“Agriculture Victoria will make every effort to contact any beekeepers that might be affected by this zone,” Dr Crnov said.

“Beekeepers who think they might be impacted are encouraged to contact us.”

Victoria has a permit system in place to help keep the state free from Varroa mite.

A permit is required for anyone bringing bees, hives, queen bees, used beekeeping equipment, pollen for bee feeding, and bee products, including honeycomb, into any part of Victoria from any other state or territory.

Victorian registered beekeepers are required to keep movement records under Victorian regulations, preferably in BeeMAX.

For more information on Varroa requirements, reporting and permit applications, visit the varroa page on the Agriculture Victoria website.

The national final will be held at Sydney Opera House and there will be a prize worth $20,000 including publishing opportunities.

Poets have two minutes on the microphone to present an original poem.

Judges selected from the audience will mark their performance and the two poets with the top scores will be off to the Victorian final.

The Shepparton Library Poetry Slam Heat will start at 6.30pm on Friday, September 8.

Registration for the heat is only available in person, in the library, on the night.

Registrations open at 6.00pm –don’t delay as there will be limited spaces.

Head to www.

australianpoetryslam.com/rules to read the rules of the heat.

NICE DAY FOR A TRIP TO ELMORE: The students, including Tristan Hollingsworth (left), enjoyed watching the new equipment in action. The spring weather is just around the corner, which means hay and silage will be made shortly.

TRACTOR TRIO: Earlier this month, Euroa Secondary College agriculture students attended Australian Fodder Industry Association Fodder Festival at Elmore, which was a demonstration day of hay and silage machinery. Pictured are teacher Lachlan Cooke (left) with students Jasmyn Wilson and Amber McNally.

Nic Everist exhibition coming to ARTBOX

A CHANGE of exhibition is coming soon for ARTBOX.

It is the final chance to go and check out artist Ann Cremean’s Open Space before artist Nic Everist’s exhibition opens on August 31, 2023.

Nic Everist will be the third artist to exhibit in the travelling art space.

Ms Everist is a landscape artist who works out of her studio in Geelong.

Inspired by her travels and explorations, Nic loves to visit new places, discover new landscapes and delve into the stories behind them.

With this series, Ms Everist revisits her old stomping ground, the Strathbogie Region, where she grew up on her family farm along the Sevens Creek.

Ms Everist has always been inspired by the tall gums and flora on her family farm, having been exposed to this at a young age through her father’s regeneration projects, spending hours on end planting nature corridors along the Sevens Creek.

“This series is inspired by the natural vegetation of the area, learning the names of the different flo-

THE ARTIST: Nic Everist, whose art will show in the ARTBOX from August 31, grew up on a family farm along the Sevens Creek.

PHOTOS: Nic Everist, supplied

ra and celebrating the ecosystems that have existed for hundreds of years,” she said.

In this series, she has applied techniques she has been using since the beginning of her practice, specifically fluid pouring to replicate the textures in nature, such as the bark, trees and shrubs.

“The unpredictable nature of pouring reflects the chaotic design of nature itself and each piece draws in the viewer to look a little closer at the details, to slow down and notice the fine marks created, and in turn, notice those fine details in their own environ-

District News

ACTIVITIES IN AVENEL

By LYNJ JAMES

AVENEL Australia Day community survey forms can be dropped off in a box at the pharmacy.

The survey is open until September 18.

Avenel’s community bus runs weekly to help you get to the shops.

If you don’t drive or need help with shopping, enjoy social shopping with Avenel Active.

Door-to-door transport to your home runs every Thursday morning from Avenel to Seymour for $5 return.

Pick-up is at about 9.15am and return is around 11.30am.

You could use the service for shipping, appointments, the library, swimming or meeting friends.

Join us for a coffee and chat before returning to Avenel.

All residents welcome.

For bookings, call Jim Billings on 0433 270 101.

Avenel Primary School is seeking expressions of interest for market stall holders for the Avenel Primary School fete on November 18.

ments,” Ms Everist said.

Each piece celebrates species native to the Strathbogie Region and, through sharing her own learnings of the flora, viewers will also have the opportunity to learn about the native species as well.

Nic Everist’s exhibition will show at ARTBOX in the Seven Creeks Park, Euroa, which can be viewed by the public 24/7 through the glass pane windows from August 31 to September 26.

To find out more about ARTBOX or to express your interest in using the space, visit https://www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/community/ arts-and-culture/artbox/.

Stall holders must have their own public liability insurance.

Please contact the school office to express interest and further information.

Avenel Tennis Club 2023/23 is fast approaching.

Anyone interested in playing Saturday afternoon senior competition are asked to message either Steve Garden on 0419 870 207 or Dee Wright on 0419 438 949 as soon as possible, so we can organise how many teams we enter.

Social tennis membership for those would still like a hit: $25 for individuals or $50 a family.

On Sunday, September 10 there will be a big Avenel fun day at Avenel Jubilee Park.

At the Avenel Tennis Courts, the tennis club has their working bee commencing at 9am, followed by Open Day.

All members of the community are wel-

come to come and have a hit.

There will be a demonstration of a new craze in tennis, “pickleball”, with the opportunity for learning more and having a go.

Join in – with enough interest, there may start a fun social competition.

Sunday September 10 is also Avenel’s monthly market day from 9am to 1pm with stalls, bargains, coffee and food.

Longwood lookout

By LONGWOOD ACTION GROUP

THE next meeting of the Longwood Action Group will take place Wednesday, October 4 at 7pm at the community centre meeting room. Anyone is very welcome to attend.

A working bee has been nominated for Sunday September 10 at 10am.

Please bring along the usual tools, trailers, etc that may be of use.

The Longwood Seniors’ monthly twocourse luncheon will be held September 4 at 12.30pm at the community centre.

The cost is $16 and all seniors are welcome.

The Longwood Primary School need helpers to sell raffle tickets for the meat tray at the White Hart Hotel on the September 22 and November 17.

Proceeds from these raffles go towards educational programs that benefit all students during the year.

If you can help on any of these dates, please contact Rose or Travis.

The Longwood Primary School transition program for 2024 foundation students will commence on Tuesday, August 29 from 2.30pm to 3.15pm and then continue the following Tuesdays on September 5, 12th and 19.

In term four, sessions will be at the same time on October 10, 17, 24 and 31.

Sessions on 14 and 21 November will be half day sessions and 28 November and 5 December will be full day sessions, leading up to the state wide transition day on Tuesday, December 12.

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

Inclusions are at the editor’s discretion.

THE ART: Ms Everist’s exhibition is inspired by the natural vegetation of the Strathbogie Shire area.

BY EMAIL BY PHONE 5723 0101

45-47 Railway Street, Euroa, Victoria 3666

EMPLOYMENT

Euroa Lawn Tennis Club AGM

September 5, 2023

at the Euroa Lawn Tennis Club rooms at 7.30pm

All welcome.

Deceased Estate Garage Sale

Saturday, August 2, 9 Mansfield Road, Euroa, 10am - 5pm.

Furniture, tools, craft supplies, jewelry, vintage kitchen wares, antiques and vintage.

K&M Automotive 4x4 is the leading Emergency Roadside Assistance provider in Mansfield and surrounding areas. We provide roadside care and towing for RACV, emergency services, vehicle manufacturers and motor car clubs.

We are looking for new RACV contractors to join our team.

The job will be providing emergency roadside assistance after hours and weekends, on behalf of the RACV and another programs. You will be provided with a work service vehicle / tow truck as required, work phone and tools, as well as training.

Roles & Responsibilities:

HOLDEN Cruze

SRi-V, (1OK9GX), great first car, 1.6L turbo, auto. Top of the range including heated seats, Bluetooth, Sat.nav, 6 air bags. Registered to Nov. 2023. RW certificate. $10,600. Couple minor scrapes on passenge r side. Contact Brad 0488 095 109.

Skills & Experience: but not essential)

To apply, please send your resume to shannon@kmonsite.com.au or (03) 5775 1605.

2014 Mazda CX5 Maxx Sport, AWD, 2.2l TurboDiesel, 6 sp Auto, Reg Dec 2023 (1DT2XG), ODO 122,400, towbar, RWC supplied, $20,500 ONO. Ph 0447 381 481.

BEREAVEMENT THANKS

BURNS, Anne.

The family of Anne Burns would like to thank everyone for their prayers and love, on the passing of our Mum.

We are grateful for the support and friendship you gave Mum throughout her life. Please accept this as our personal thanks. We miss you, Mum.

~ Julieanne, Kathryn, Jennine, Andrea, John and Luellen.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

N J Todd Funeral Directors Servicing

Hamill Brothers sweep up the spotlight at the Hockey awards

By CHRIS CHITTICK

THE past weekend marked the conclusion of the winter competition for the Euroa Hockey Club.

On Saturday, the Junior Grand Finals and Women’s Senior Semi Finals took place, followed by the Men’s Senior Semi Finals on Sunday.

As the season wrapped up, Euroa had plenty to celebrate, not only from each individual day but also from the achievements of the entire season.

Aidan Hamill played a key role in the Under 14 Hockey fives Grand Final.

As one of the younger members of the GVGS Under 14 team, he faced off against minor premiers SYC.

Despite SYC being favored, an early lead for them didn’t guarantee their victory.

This high-scoring and exhilarating game turned into a hard-fought, skillful battle that engaged both players and spectators until the very end.

Although SYC maintained a lead throughout most of the match, it was never by more than a goal or two.

GVGS made a strong comeback, leveling the score with a good goal and then quickly taking the lead with two more goals.

The intensity continued to rise, and even when SYC managed to score, the margin remained tight.

When the final whistle blew, GVGS emerged as win-

ners with an eight to seven score.

The game showcased exceptional talent and determination from both teams, leaving nothing behind on the field.

Aidan Hamill was further honored at the medal presentation as he was named the “MVP for the Under 14 Grand Final,” an impressive accomplishment, especially considering he could still be playing Under 12s this year.

In the previous weekend, Joel Hamill’s junior winter season concluded when his Under 17 Hockey fives team lost their semi-final to Mooroopna in a shootout after a drawn full time.

Despite this, Joel continued to support his family and the sport.

On Saturday, he cheered on Aidan in his grand final and supported his Mum, Kim, sisters Chloe and Kira, and the rest of the B Women’s team in their semi-final.

The following day, he pre-

pared to participate in his B Men Semi Final.

During the Junior Presentation, Joel’s role shifted from being a spectator to receiving several Association Awards.

The prestigious Nathan Black Memorial Junior Umpires Award was presented to him by Association President Cam Druitt and Nathan’s mother, Association Life Member and Strikers Player Debbie Black.

Debbie highlighted the similarities between Joel’s hockey and Nathan’s, making this recognition even more meaningful.

Joel’s achievements continued as he received the Best and Fairest Award for the Under 17 Hockey fives Competition.

This was particularly remarkable given Joel’s status as a bottom-age player in the competition.

Lastly, Joel was honored as the GVHA Junior Sportsperson of the year, sharing

Tennis final showdowns on the horizon

WINTER TENNIS

By RHONDA CARPENTER

HOSTED by Mansfield and Euroa, the latest round of matches saw intense showdowns in the tennis arena.

Mansfield Black welcomed Terip, Red and Blue, while Euroa witnessed Seven Creeks against Benalla and Moglonemby facing Euroa.

Terip’s Cindy Hayes, Frances Lawrence, Bec Lyttle, and Phoebe McDermid clashed with Mansfield Black in fiercely contested openers.

Despite challenges, Terip triumphed with eight to six and eight to five games.

Mansfield Black gained strength from Di Ellis’ return and combined effectively, as Jenny Bell and Ellis secured a stunning eight to six win.

Terip displayed dominance in the remaining sets, setting the stage for their upcoming finals campaign.

Terip emerged victorious, 5/46 to 1/26.

Euroa prepared for their next challenge with an impressive win over Mo-

glonemby.

Lyndall Bigland, Sue Vaughan, Ros Doxey, and Ruth Nolan exhibited seamless teamwork, clinching every set. Moglonemby’s Deb Seach, Judy Sands, Lyn Johnson, and Mary Kelly put up a fight, narrowly losing six to eight in two sets.

Euroa secured victory, 6/48 to 0/20.

Seven Creeks tested Benalla in a fierce match, setting the tone for the finals.

Rowena Ellis and Kerry Hewlett made their mark with an 8-2 victory over Benalla’s Claire Sharp and Maureen Jewell. In response, Helen Chectuti and Deb Siggers secured their eight to two win.

Although Seven Creeks’ Melissa Cossar and Nicola Enright warmed up, Benalla rallied, capturing the remaining sets with one in a tiebreak and another eight to six.

Benalla emerged victorious, 5/42 to 1/28.

Mansfield Blue, represented by Michelle Pigdon, Sophie Yencken, Clare Beecham, and Jill Breadon, dominated against Mans-

this distinction with Sophie Morton from Benalla.

To receive one of these awards in a season is an outstanding accomplishment, but to achieve all three in different aspects of the game is truly remarkable and rare.

Joel’s contributions to the game as a player, umpire, and assistant make him deserving of not only congratulations but also gratitude.

Finishing off Saturday was the Strikers vs. Euroa B Women’s Semi Final.

Despite the absence of senior players Lucy Foster and Stacey Moore, many teams might have faltered before the match even began.

However, this first-time semi-final team showcased remarkable resilience.

Every member stepped up, willing to take on any role required.

As a result, Euroa collectively and individually delivered their finest perfor-

mance not just of the season but also during their twoyear journey together.

As expected, the Minor Premiers Strikers launched a strong assault, but Euroa embraced the challenge and exerted pressure across the field.

Even when Strikers secured their initial goal in the first quarter, Euroa’s determination held firm.

The team remained focused, adhering to their game plan.

This compelled Strikers to repeatedly draw upon their experience to elevate their play.

However, Euroa consistently matched their efforts, frustrating them with their defensive marking, interceptions, and counterattacks.

While Strikers extended their lead with a goal in each subsequent quarter, they never found comfort, and every goal required a high level of execution.

When Euroa rallied with their own goal in the final quarter, Strikers were once again prompted to raise their game.

Despite the final score favoring Strikers four to one, the Strikers advancing to the Grand Final against Echuca.

Euroa’s team merits should be applauded, most notably all but three of their players are still in school, unlike Strikers, who had only one school-aged player.

Kudos to the young talents Elise and Erin Durkin, Chloe and Kira Hamill, Madison Heywood, Stella Keramaris,

Ada McKeachie, Evie and Mika Stefanos, along with Kim Hamill, Sarah, and Chris Chittick.

Their efforts were well supported by Lucy Foster and Anne Murray managing the bench and their families in the cheering section.

While the outcome wasn’t as hoped, the entire team’s performance was commendable, and Euroa’s persistent and resilient approach earned admiration once again.

On Sunday, Joel returned to Shepparton as part of Benalla’s B men’s team, facing SYC in the B Men’s Semi Final.

The match was another hard-fought battle, ultimately concluding in SYC’s favor.

Euroa’s Under 10s also enjoyed a highly successful season guided by coach Kim Hamill.

Their numbers grew from one team at the start to two by season’s end.

Their individual and collective play progressed significantly since the season’s commencement, and their enthusiasm remained unwavering.

The Euroa Hockey Club expresses gratitude to GVGS and Benalla Hockey Clubs for providing playing opportunities in age groups where the club couldn’t field teams this year.

Recruitment efforts for the next season are in the works, and new and returning members are warmly welcomed, regardless of prior experience.

field Red.

Karyn Fraser, Carolyn Murray, Loretta Armitage, and Deb McCormack showcased resilience in the final sets.

Fraser and McCormack narrowly lost six to eight, while Murray and Armitage triumphed with an eight to six win.

Blue clinched victory, 5/46 to 1/23.

Looking ahead to the final round, Euroa and Terip face off in a table-topping clash.

Benalla takes on Moglonemby in the third and forth contest, while Mansfield Red battles Seven Creeks, and Mansfield Blue challenges Mansfield Black.

The top four remains unchanged.

Semifinals on September 4 in Mansfield start at 10:30 am, and spectators are welcome.

Members are encouraged to attend MTA’s AGM at 7pm in the clubhouse.

Ladder: Terip 102, Euroa 95, Moglonemby 83, Benalla 72, Mansfield Black 56, Seven Creeks 41, Mansfield Blue 38, Mansfield Red 33.

STRONG CONTEST: Violet Town under 14s found the going in their final at the weekend losing to Murchison-Toolamba 14.11.95 to Violet Town 0.0.0. PHOTOS: Dale Mann

Embodying excellence: Joel displays his trophies.

BONDED BY GLORY: The Hamill brothers and their treasured trophies.

VICTORIOUS AND UNITED: Euroa Under 13 Black netball team secures a grand final spot. See story page 22.

PHOTO: Scott Embling

GOLF NAGAMBIE MID WEEK

By KARYN THOMPSON

RESULTS WEDNESDAY

AUGUST 23.

WE only had nine players for a Stableford round and playing for the monthly medal which was played in amazing weather conditions.

The winner of all grades and the monthly medal was Irene Keogh with 32pts. Irene was also the winner of the nine hole competition with 17pts and also managed the nearest to the pin on the third hole.

Balls down the line for 18 holes went to Irene 32pts and balls down the line for nine holes went to Irene with 17 pts, Moz Fowler 15 pts on a count back over Kylie Carmichael.

NINE HOLE MIXED COMPETITION THURSDAY AUGUST 24

There were 26 players for a round of stroke played in beautiful weather conditions.

The winner was Barry Cryer with 47-13-34 net.

The runner up was the in form Gary Bow with 4610-36 net on a count back over Shaun Bryant and there weren’t any nearest to the pin winners.

GVVGA

By ROLF WEBER

SEVENTY-seven veteran golfers contested at Valley View Golf Club, Kyabram on Monday August 21.

The weather presented us with “four seasons in one day” throughout the playing period where the temperature moved from 13 to 16 degrees.

The wind varied from seven to 13 km/hour and several sprinkles of rain brought out the umbrellas but hardly registered in the gauge and brief periods of sunshine had the jumpers off

Our sponsor for this event was Rushworth Community Bank and we thank them for their long standing support of the Association.

We also appreciate the work of the volunteers at

Valley View who presented the course in such excellent condition and provided an outstanding luncheon to complete the day.

A-Grade winner Peter Mangan of Valley View with 40 stableford points was the only player to better his handicap; with runnerup Peter Jeffery from Cosgrove,. The mark with 36 pts.

B-Grade winner was Michael Keely from Euroa on 31 pts and runner up Peter O’Brien from Deniliquin on 30 pts.

C-Grade winners saluted with identical scores with Robert Smith from Parkland on 31 pts.

New member Philip Mitchell of Murray Downs came runner-up with 30 pts.

Nearest the pin was contested on a 133 metre long third hole where Bruce Brown from Merrigum, Bernard O’Hare from Nathalia and Phil Cooper from Parkland were successful in A,B and C grade respectively.

Ball winners included in

A-Grade: John Radeski from Deniliquin, Rolf Weber from Mooroopna, Kevin Humbert from Lockington, Stephen Piggot from Cobram, Greg Austin from Mooroopna, Jack Dell from Numurkah.

B-Grade winners Graham Ashton from Numurkah, Bill Murphy from Mooroopna, Garrick Campbell from Rushworth, Robert Oliver from Hill Top, Bernard O’Hare from Nathalia, Daryl Sheridan from Numurkah.

C-Grade winners Gerald Pennefather from Shepparton, Tom Martin from Mooroopna, Phil Cooper from Parkland, Laurie Steward from Mooroopna, John Neale from Valley View and Dudley Bryant from Numurkah.

Our next regular event is at Merrigum Golf Club on Monday September 11 2023.

9.30am assembly for 10am tee off

AVENEL GOLF CLUB

By LYN CARRACHER

WHILE the weather was ideal for golf on Saturday,

the field saw a depletion due to seven players participating in the Victorian Sandgreen Championships at Talbot.

Dale and Alex Smith brought good news by winning the fourball on Friday, achieving back-to-back victories in the event.

Although individual success was limited, Jed finished in the top 10 for A grade scratch and forth in the handicap, while Campbell Smith secured a top 10 spot in B grade and Tim Batten took third place in the B grade handicap.

Both Tim and Jed managed to claim a Nearest to the pin over the weekend, making for some well-deserved recognition.

On the home front, six players, three men and 3 ladies participated in a stableford round, with Judy Eddy joining for nine holes and Kait Carracher submitting her first handicap card, achieving an impressive 90 off the stick, featuring six pars and a birdie.

Kudos to Kait for the accomplishment!

The day’s best scorer was Dave Fullager with 31 points, earning the winner’s voucher, and Bill Eddy came in as the runner-up with 28 points.

Although no one secured a nearest to the pin on the 18th, Dee’s shot wasn’t far off the mark.

Terry Lowis was the delighted winner of the Avenel Meats Meat Tray.

This upcoming Saturday marks the third round of the club championships, intensifying the competition for bragging rights.

Best of luck to all players.

Don’t forget to return Father’s Day raffle tickets and money, either directly to Marlene or bring to the club on Friday night or Saturday, along with something for the prize hamper.

Raffle will be drawn after golf on Saturday.

A friendly reminder about the Ladies tournament on Thursday, September 14.

Entries can be given to

Lyn Carracher at 0427 985 268.

In the meantime, happy golfing to everyone.

STRATHBOGIE GOLF CLUB

By KRISTEN MOORE

STABLEFORD was the game of choice on Saturday, August 26, at Strathbogie Golf Club.

The course’s condition was impressive, and the weather matched the enthusiasm, offering a splendid spring day despite the calendar still marking it as winter.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the dedicated volunteers who put in great work on the course throughout the week; your efforts are greatly appreciated.

Emerging as the victor of the day and the recipient of the Euroa Hotel Voucher was Kerry Hewlett with a total of 32 points.

This victory was secured after a countback against Victoria Fry.

Victoria managed an impressive 21 points in the final nine holes.

Lineball honors were shared by Victoria Fry with 32 points and David Kennett with 31 points.

The closest to the pin prizes were clinched by David Kennett on the eight hole and Phil Fry on the 17th.

Kerry Hewlett seized the victory in the Ladies drive and pitch contest.

Chris Bennett emerged victorious in the Straightest Drive category.

Looking ahead, next week’s game will feature stroke play and the Monthly Medal, with Allan Rowarth taking up duty.

On another note, the monthly dinner took place on Saturday night, and even though attendance was lower than usual, everyone thoroughly enjoyed the evening.

A big thank you goes out to everyone who contributed to making the night a success.

Mark your calendars for September 7, when the club will host the Jim Gibson Cup - Veterans Tournament. I t’s bound to be a fantastic

event.

NAGAMBIE GOLF CLUB

By DAVID LOVE

IT felt like spring with mild temperatures and warm sunshine but winter scoring continued.

The ground conditions have firmed somewhat but not enough for the higher handicappers just yet.

Ben Cassar proved too good on the day completing his round with a square result, this surprisingly was good enough to win, Cassar’s concentration and ability to operate under pressure was the catalyst for the win.

Runner up went to Wayne Le Cerf utilizing his giant handicap to good effect with minus one which just happens to be one worse than handicap.

First time back after a winter absence due to football commitments was Ryan Ezard with minus two a good result and he will most likely be a golfer to watch through the coming spring and summer events.

The nearest the pin prizes went to Tony Favero firing an exceptional shot onto the third, Jeremy Ezard smacking it onto the 13th and the revitalised runner up of the day. Wayne ‘the bullet’ Le Cerf producing a breathtaking strike to go close on the16th.

Next week’s golf will be a stroke monthly medal and fifth round of the social club trophy on office duty will be David Love and in the bar B. Leviston.

EUROA GOLF CLUB

By RICHARD JOHNSON

SPRING like weather drew 34 golf enthusiasts to the course on Saturday.

Despite the day feeling like spring, the course itself still retained its winter characteristics, making the challenge of playing par quite formidable.

Impressively, Dick Farmer was the sole player to match his handicap and emerge as the winner of the day with an even par score.

This achievement was remarkable, especially considering he was three down at

the fifth tee.

The ever-consistent Paddy McCarthy secured the runner-up position with a score of minus two.

Balls were also earned by Dale McIntosh, Laurie McMartin, and Donald Bubeck, all with a score of minus three.

In the two-ball category, Ross Wishart claimed victory on holes eight and 18, while Dale McIntosh and Glen McMartin each had one.

Among the 10 ladies who took on the challenge, Dee McMartin clinched victory over Gail Allen in a countback decision.

The Lewis Family event is progressing, and with Rosy’s return from Queensland, he’s set to face off against Chris Burke.

The winner of this match will then proceed to play against Pete McMahon in the Semi Final.

In the Lindsay Park match play event, the matches to watch are Owen Robertson vs P. McCarthy, Paul Jones vs Gary Ritchie, Charlie Walker vs John Gilbert, and L. Paul vs P. McMahon.

The closely-matched nature of these matches is generating significant interest.

Unfortunately, Wednesday’s golf was dampened by rain, and Donald Bubeck’s day took a turn for the worse when a sizable pothole damaged his Kart trailer, rendering the Kart itself unusable.

Hopefully, his insurance will promptly get him back on a new Kart.

Looking ahead, the upcoming Saturday marks the first monthly medal for Spring, expected to draw a large crowd.

With favorable forecasts and the greens showcasing their quality, players are eager to experience their true and fast roll.

Preparations are in full swing around the club to present the course at its finest for the Power Industry weekend event in October, which includes a major working bee planned for October 8.

Standpipe Cup raises awareness for water project Greening Euroa

By RICHARD MCGEEHAN

LAST weekend marked the inaugural Standpipe Cup between Euroa and Mansfield at the Memorial Oval.

Wow – what is this about?

Firstly, search “Greening Euroa” on YouTube to find a six-minute video produced by Strathbogie Shire Council on bringing recycled water back to town for our community spaces, including the Memorial Oval.

I am a member of the Greening Euroa steering committee, who is working on this project with GV Water and Strathbogie Shire Council.

The project has the capacity (200ML of recycled class B water every year) to keep our town green forever.

Forever means it’s totally sustainable.

The more our town grows, the more water for the green open spaces.

How far will 200 megalitres go, and would an investment of $3.8 million be worth it?

GV Water, our major partner, has advised that an oval like the Memorial Oval will require 5ML per year.

A simple calculation tells us that there is sufficient water for 40 recipients.

Currently we have eight user groups – three schools, the showground, Memorial Oval, Friendlies Reserve, the arboretum and the croquet club.

To date we have completed stages one and two being a feasibility study and detailed plans (see the YouTube video).

Our next priority is to demonstrate how it works by

bringing treated water to the secondary college.

This will require community support, hence the Standpipe Cup.

Ultimately, we require funding from state and commonwealth governments to make this work.

To give traction to the project, our community needs to push politicians at all levels to make this a priority.

PRESENTING THE TROPHY: Former councillor Mick Williams, Euroa A grade captain Tyiah March Bank and Mansfield A grade captain Isabella Riley with the Standpipe Cup trophy.

Charli excels in PetStock Victoria Interschool Equestrian

By DAN GODSMARK

VICTORIA’S young equestrian enthusiasts converged upon the Werribee Equestrian Centre this April to show their skill at the PetStock Victoria Interschool State Championships.

The sprawling five-day event witnessed riders from various corners of the region engaging in a thrilling array of disciplines, from the graceful art of dressage to the heart-pounding intensity of showjumping and much more.

The culmination of fierce competition was underscored by a unique pointsbased system, ultimately crowning champions in both primary and secondary

school categories. Standing out among these accomplished contenders was Charli Hewlett, a spirited grade two pupil hailing from St John’s Primary School.

With her trusty companion, “Sunshine, Lollipops, and Rainbows,” Charli embarked on a solo journey into the primary age section.

Her dedication and prowess shone through as she emerged victorious in the first two showjumping classes, securing an impressive second place in the third.

This exceptional performance proved to be the golden key to the overall showjumping championship.

But Charli’s triumph

didn’t stop there.

She asserted her dominance in the sporting horse section, reigning supreme in both of its classes and thus claiming the overarching

sporting horse championship.

Even in the demanding Working Hunter section, Charli’s unwavering effort landed her a commendable

sixth position in the championship standings.

As the dust settled after five exhilarating days, the accumulation of points led to a captivating showdown for the coveted Nan McArthur Primary School Championship.

In an unforeseen turn of events, Charli and two grade six talents from Melbourne schools found themselves in a riveting tie, their scores mirroring each other precisely within a field of 113 primary school riders.

Such a deadlock defied resolution through conventional means, resulting in the unique recognition of all three as joint primary school champions.

Charli’s triumph was

marked by a collection of exquisitely embroidered rugs, a trove of prizes and ribbons, and the enduring honor of having her name engraved upon the perpetual trophy.

Beyond the arena battles, the event encapsulated the true spirit of sportsmanship.

The organisers orchestrated an array of engaging social events that facilitated the forging of new friendships and the celebration of shared passion.

This blend of competition and community solidified the event’s reputation not only as a stage for showcasing excellence but also as an avenue for young riders to relish the joys of sport and companionship.

Euroa residents shine at festival

By DAN GODSMARK

EIGHT enthusiastic residents from Euroa proudly represented their town at the Campbells Shepparton Running Festival recently, showcasing their running prowess on the picturesque courses that wind along the banks of the Goulburn and Broken Rivers and encircle the stunning Victoria Park Lake.

The Shepparton Running Festival, an event with a rich history dating back to 1998, is recognised as one of Victoria’s oldest running marathons.

This year’s festival proved to be another memorable chapter in its legacy.

With a maximum temperature of 19 degrees and a gentle spring breeze, the weather conditions were ideal for the 821 participants registered to

push their limits.

In the demanding 42.19km marathon, two Euroa locals displayed their determination and endurance.

Among 160 participants, Daniel Godsmark secured the 74th position with an impressive time of three hours, 54 minutes and 37 seconds.

James Bodycoat further showcased his commitment, achieving the 32 position with a personal best of three hours, 22 minutes and 37 seconds.

The festival also saw the participation of four Euroa residents in the challenging 10km race.

Bibby Simmonds exhibited her speed and determination as she secured the 35 overall position and the seventh position among the female runners.

Completing the 10km

RESULTS:

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

Eleven NEBB junior teams compete in the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) - the highest level junior competition in Victoria.

One NEBB Youth League Men’s (YLM) team competes in the semi-professional Big V competition.

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

SEMI FINAL

course in just 50 minutes and 23 seconds, Simmons left her mark on the day.

Alana Morrison also made a remarkable appearance, securing the 48 overall position and the 15 position among the female runners.

Morrison completed the race in 52 minutes and 59

U14 Girls 1 42 def Diamond Valley 2 31

(Top Scorers: Ella Mercieca 24, Lily Purss 11, Eloise Hudgson 5)

QUALIFYING FINAL

U16 Boys 1 39 def by Gippsland United 1 47

(Top Scorers: Blake Newton 10, Connor Breheny 10, Dashiell Smith 9)

SEMI FINAL

U16 Boys 2 66 def Ballarat 34

(Top Scorers: Lenny Lonergan 17, Mateo Hanley 13, Josh Vearing 11)

ELIMINATION FINAL

U16 Girls 1 50 def by Altona 1 65

(Top Scorers: Molly Moylan 25, Lily-Anne McClure 9, Elise Napier 6)

QUALIFYING FINAL

U16 Girls 2 24 def by Bulleen 3 45

(Top Scorers: Scarlett Mullavey 6, Sienna Sampson 6, Sophia Kotzur 5)

QUALIFYING FINAL

U18 Boys 1 46 def by Waverley 1 62

(Top Scorers: Lochie Harvey 18, Caleb Wharepapa 9, Frank Oguche 8)

seconds.

Lily Godson and Hannah Tuckett showcased their dedication in the same category, completing the 10km race with admirable times.

Godson secured the 95 overall position and the 48 position among the fastest female runners, completing

the race in 59 minutes and 9 seconds.

Tuckett on the other hand, achieved the 97 overall position and the 50 position among the fastest female runners, completing the race in 59 minutes and 18 seconds.

In an impressive display

of speed, Victoria Mitchell secured the title of the fastest female with a remarkable time of 17.40 minutes for the 5km run.

Meanwhile, Shay Hill marked her accomplishment as the 17th fastest female, completing the same distance in 30.31 minutes.

For those who might be inspired by the Euroa residents’ accomplishments and wish to embark on their own running journey, the local park run presents an excellent starting point.

Euroa’s weekly parkrun takes place every Saturday at 8am from the Sevens Creek amenity blocks, offering a friendly and supportive environment for individuals of all fitness levels.

To join, interested participants can register at www. parkrun.com.au

Capturing the moment: Charlie and her champion pony Sunshine, Lollipop and Rainbow.

UNSTOPPABLE DETERMINATION: Pushed to their limits. Left to right: James Bodycoat, Daniel Godsmark, Lily Godson, Hannah Tuckett and Bibby Simmonds).

Eight local residents participate in Shepparton at one of Victoria’s oldest running events

SPORT - SCOREBOARD

JUNIOR NETBALL

EUROA UNDER 13 BLACK vs KIALLA WEST

By SCOTT EMBLING

THE Euroa Under 13 Black netballers emerged as the ladder leaders this season, and their recent clash against Kialla West proved crucial for their grand final aspirations.

In a closely contested encounter, the first quarter showcased intense pressure from both sides.

Daisy Cameron and Lara Saxon demonstrated unwavering defensive skills, ensuring a solid presence on the court.

Adelaide Downie’s efforts also played a vital role in transitioning the netball from defense to attack.

Despite the spirited efforts, Kialla West secured a five-goal lead by the end of the quarter.

As the game progressed into the second quarter, a few strategic changes seemed to bring about a settling effect on the Euroa team.

The mid-court dominance was evident, with Molly Fowler orchestrating plays from the center.

Bethan Burton capitalised on the opportunities, delivering remarkable goals.

By halftime, Euroa trailed by just a single goal.

The third quarter witnessed a standout performance from the girls, argu-

ably their best this season.

The combination of Asha Embling and Grace Eddy in the mid-court created a platform for the Euroa goalers to shine.

Sissy Davey defensive prowess was on full display, consistently intercepting the netball.

The team’s collective efforts outscoring their opponents eight goals to four.

As a result, they took a lead of 23 to 19 heading into the final quarter.

The last quarter posed its challenges, with Kialla West determined to make a stand.

However, Euroa’s team spirit and coordinated play proved decisive.

Each player executed their roles flawlessly, contributing to both defense and crucial conversions.

In the end, Euroa emerged victorious, securing a final score of 31 to 25.

With this triumph, the girls have earned a spot in the upcoming grand final scheduled in two weeks’ time.

The Euroa Under 13 Black team is all set to carry the momentum forward as they strive for glory. Go Pies!

UNDER 13 MAGPIES VS SHEPPARTON SAINTS OPALS

By CAROLINE KEENAN

THE 13/under secondary Magpies team secured a spot in the grand final with an impressive victory over

the Shepparton Saints Opals on Saturday.

The opening term saw an evenly matched contest, with the Magpies holding a slight lead of 12 goals to the Opals’ 11.

The game took a turn in the second quarter, as defenders Ella Kearns (GD) and Grace Hill (GK) put in a strong effort to limit the Opals’ goal scoring to just five goals. Meanwhile, with Zahara Johns (GA) and Grace McKellar (GS) leading the attack, the Magpies scored 11 goals.

The third quarter saw fewer goals as the Magpies struggled to break through the center and were outscored seven to five.

Maisy Wilson returned to the court in the fourth quarter, resuming her duties as (C) and working in tandem with wings Shelby Baker and Ella Kearns. This combination continued to provide options through the middle and drive the ball forward.

Members of the Magpies’ mosquito fleet, including Willow Hamill, Willow Timperley, and Heidi Taresch, made crucial contributions from the interchange bench when the game hung in the balance.

Coach Jason Timperley expressed his delight with the outcome and praised the girls for their hard work in earning their spot in the grand final.

GOULBURN VALLEY SENIORS LADDER

“We’ve really hit our stride at this crucial point of the season,” Timperley commented. “To win the title, we’ll need to play our best netball, and I believe we are more than capable of doing so.”

Grace Hill and Zahara Johns received the best oncourt awards for their outstanding performances.

JUNIOR FOOTBALL

EUROA

UNDER 13 VS LEICHVILLE GUNBOWER

By TROY VAN DEN BERGHE

FIRST quarter: On a glorious day for football, Euroa’s under 14 traveled to the pristine surface of Kyabram Recreation Reserve.

With an early kick-off at 9.30am and a touch of dew on the grass, Euroa arrived ready to play.

The season was on the line, and coach Saxon directive was clear leave nothing behind.

From the initial bounce, Euroa asserted dominance over Gunbower.

Ollie Robinson’s ruck prowess set the tone, allowing the midfield to shine.

They constantly surged the ball forward, resulting in an Ollie Wilson goal.

The strategic move of placing Ethan Saxon on the wing and Dougie Kipping forward paid dividends.

Both players made an impact.

Midfielders Swain, Creevey, Walker and Wilson

showed their mettle around the contest.

The resolute backline, led by Davey, Van Den Berghe, and McLure, thwarted numerous advances.

At quarter time, Euroa was firmly in control.

2nd Quarter: With Van Den Berghe in the ruck and Robinson at center halfback, Euroa carried their momentum into the quarter.

They displayed vigor, communication, and cohesion.

The team delivered their best performance of the year.

Every member executed their role, resulting in a united front.

Forward threats Haimi Wolfenden, Sam Mills, Ollie Swain, Ollie Wilson, and Darby Hoare were formidable.

Euroa added four goals for the quarter, with Haimi (two), Darby Hoare (one), and Ollie Wilson (one) each contributing.

The pressure and commitment around the ball were exceptional.

Gunbower attempted to rally, but Euroa’s backline, anchored by Robinson, Davey, McLure, and Swain stood unyielding.

3rd Quarter: Euroa understood that Gunbower wouldn’t yield easily.

As frustration grew, Euroa’s relentless on-ball pressure paid off

SENIORS SCOREBOARD

Ruck dominance from Robinson and Aaron Van Den Berghe allowed the midfielders to flourish.

Sustained forward pressure led to more goals.

Creevey, Holden, and Sheridan orchestrated the transition from the backline with speed and precision.

Ethan, Haimi, and Darby Hoare were rewarded with goals, a testament to their hard work in congested situations.

4th Quarter: Gunbower changed tactics and capitalised instantly with their first goal, eliciting cheers from their supporters.

The sudden breakthrough caught Euroa off-guard, as the goal was scored swiftly from the middle.

Euroa regrouped, adhering to their attacking style.

The quarter saw backand-forth action, with Euroa adding two more goals.

A complete team effort defined the game, making it the best performance of the year under the pressure of a preliminary final.

Congratulations to the entire team, coach Saxon, and proud parents for securing a place in the grand final, some for the second consecutive year.

Final Score:

Euroa: 9.8.62 defeated Leitchville/Gunbower: 1.2.8.

Saturday, August 5

RESERVES

RESULTS

FINALS NETBALL SCORES

A Grade: Euroa 81 def Mansfield 23; Benalla 30 def by Kyabram 44; Shepparton 69 def Seymour 61; Mooroopna 31 def by Echuca 48; Tatura 44 def Shepp Swans 33; Rochester 62 def Shepp Utd 29

B Grade: Euroa 67 def Mansfield 34; Benalla 25 def by Kyabram 44; Shepparton 50 def Seymour 41; Mooroopna 36 def by Echuca 44; Tatura 32 def by Shepp Swans 51; Rochester 51 def Shepp Utd 21.

B Reserve: Euroa 43 def by Mansfield 56; Benalla 38 def by Kyabram 39; Shepparton 29 def by Seymour 36; Mooroopna 36 def by Echuca 66; Tatura 25 def by Shepp Swans 72; Rochester 48 def Shepp Utd 25

17 & Under: Euroa 24 def by Mansfield 47; Shepparton 57 def Seymour 21; Mooroopna 44 def Echuca 41; Tatura 28 def by Shepp Swans 64; Rochester 31 def by Shepp Utd 35; Benalla 39 def by Kyabram 66.

15 & Under: Tatura 27 def by Shepp Swans 47; Benalla 0 def by Kyabram 20; Shepparton 41 def Seymour 33; Mooroopna 41 def Echuca 39; Euroa 32 def by Mansfield 35; Rochester 33 def Shepp Utd

Sat, Sept 2 - - Benalla Showgrounds

NETBALL

A Grade 2:15pm EF2 Echuca v Shepparton

B Grade 1pm QF Echuca v Shepparton

B Reserve 11:45am QF Echuca v Seymour

17 & Under 10:30am EF2 Kyabram v Echuca

15 & Under 9:15am EF2 Kyabram v Mansfield

FOOTBALL

Seniors 2:00pm QF Echuca v Seymour Reserves 12:00pm EF1 Echuca v Euroa

Under 18 10:00am

GOALS: BENALLA: Tom Bennett 3, Jack Frampton 2, Wade King 1, Campbell Mccoy 1, Tom O’Brien 1, Jarrad Waite 1. KYABRAM: Anthony Depasquale 2, Will Golds 2, Kayne Pettifer 2, Joshua Dillon 1, Kaine Herbert 1, Thomas Holman 1, Kyle Mueller 1, Archie Watt 1, Toby Wooller 1. BEST: BENALLA: Joshua Marchbank, Tyler Mcgregor, Tom Bennett, Wade King, Jordan Wolff. KYABRAM: Aidan Robinson, Kaine Herbert, Archie Watt, Zachary Norris, Jake Parkinson.

SEYMOUR

GOALS: SHEPPARTON: Jhett Cooper 2, Trent Herbert 2, Xavier Stevenson 2, Tyron Baden 1, Tyler Larkin 1, Lewis McShane 1, Jacob Watts 1, Jack Whitlock 1. SEYMOUR: Riley Mason 3, Nathan Beattie 1, Benjamin Clifton 1, Cooper Lubeck 1, Jack Murphy 1, Ben Rigoni 1, Lachlan Waite 1. BEST:

SHEPPARTON: Mitchell Brett, Bryce Stephenson, Tyron Baden, Jordan Mcgregor, Xavier Stevenson.

SEYMOUR: Jack O’Sullivan, Riley Mason, Ben Cooney, Dylan Scopel, Ben Rigoni.

EUROA

MANSFIELD

GOALS: EUROA: Jett Trotter 3, Tristan Davies 2, Adam Giobbi 2, Andrew Bell 1, Jayden Gleeson 1, Cohen Paul 1, Erishmiilan Uthayakumar 1. MANSFIELD: Cameron Arnold 3, Ben Christopher 2, Jack Tomanovits 2, Brett Mahoney 1. BEST: EUROA: Jacob Gleeson, Jett Trotter, Andrew Smith, Jack McKernan, Andrew Bell. MANSFIELD: Brett Mahoney, Jack Tomanovits, Cameron Arnold, Harry Mahoney, Dylan Lowry.

ROCHESTER 5.3 9.4 12.8 14.11.95

SHEPP UNITED 3.4 3.8 8.10 10.13.73

GOALS: ROCHESTER: Mitch Cricelli 4, Reid Gordon 2, Wil Hamilton 2, Kyle Waters 2, Joseph Atley 1, Adam Mcphee 1, Bailey Wileman 1, Sean Williams 1. SHEPPARTON UNITED: Jayden Magro 3, Liam Serra 2, Kaedyn Napier 1, Riley Onley 1, Kian Roche 1, Lewis Stanton 1, Patrick Thompson 1. BEST: ROCHESTER: Joseph Atley, Grant Fuller, Mitch Cricelli, Nathan McCarty, Wil Hamilton. SHEPPARTON UNITED: Jye Chalcraft, Mitchell Trevaskis, kyle clarke, Marcus Wattie, Mitchell Black.

MOOROOPNA 5.4 6.6 10.7 11.9.75

ECHUCA 5.4 8.9 10.12 11.14.80

GOALS: MOOROOPNA: Jackson Trengove 4, Daniel Johnston 3, Kydan Atkinson 1, Keelin Betson 1, Ben Hicks 1, Darcy Russell 1. ECHUCA: Liam Tenace 3, Corbin Anderson 1, Cooper Barber 1, Jack Evans 1, Mitchell Kemp 1, Will Monahan 1, Riley Smith 1, Jackson Stewart 1, Sam Willoughby 1.

BEST: MOOROOPNA: Bryce Rutherford, Jack Johnston, Jed Woods, Nathan Basile, Liam Betson. ECHUCA: Jackson Stewart, Liam Tenace, Logan Prout, Matthew Lias, Jack Evans.

TATURA 0.2 5.3 8.4 11.6.72

SHEPP SWANS 7.2 12.3 15.5 16.6.102

GOALS: TATURA: Chaz Sargeant 5, Brodie Meyers 2, Michael Archer 1, Blake Armstrong 1, James Bennett 1, Andrew Ciavarella 1. SHEPPARTON SWANS: James Auld 5, Rylen Damianopoulos 4, Zac Clohesy 3, Nathan Rachele 2, Joeve Cooper 1, Mason Reeves 1. BEST: TATURA: Mitchell Elliott, Chaz Sargeant, Brodie Meyers, Andrew Ciavarella, Harley McCarthy. SHEPPARTON SWANS: Diesel Batey, Tom Preece, James Auld, Ben Gilberto, Nathan Rachele.

Euroa 16.10.106 def Mansfield

10.5.65

BEST: EUROA: Craig Bamford, Zac Gleeson, Nicholas McCabe, Jd Hayes, Lincoln Mckernan. MANSFIELD: Colby Croxford-demasi, Joshua Stefanutti, Jacob Howes, Thomas Sheahan, William Chiller. Benalla 8 7 55 def by Kyabram 13 8 86

Shepparton 1 1 7 def by Seymour 16 9 105 Rochester 5 3 33 def by Shepp United 22 11 143 Tatura 1 2 8 def by Shepp Swans 11 10 76 Mooroopna 3 5 23 def by Echuca 14 11 95 

by

11.12.78 BEST: EUROA: Mitchell Walters, Will Creevey, Maxwell Miller, Tynan Cummins, Dublin Anderson. MANSFIELD: Brayden Van Winden, Harry Purcell, Angus Bolitho, Benjamin Reardon, Riley Hall.

A Grade triumph clinches Standpipe Cup

EFNC - NETBALL

A GRADE

By DEBBIE HOARE

EUROA and Mansfield competed for the new annual Standpipe Cup trophy from Goulburn Murray Water.

The Magpies were eager to claim it this year.

With strong defensive pressure, quick ball movement, and accurate shooting, they secured a 14-goal lead by the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, Euroa’s defensive pressure, led by Tylah Marchbank and Ellie Warnock in the defensive ring, made it challenging for the Eagles to score.

The Magpies dominated, leading by 33 at halftime.

In the third quarter, Mansfield exerted tremendous effort, making it an even game initially.

However, the Magpies managed to increase their lead by 44 points by the end of the quarter.

During the fourth quarter, Eliza Hoare and Sophie Owen strategically moved the ball into the goal area, creating shooting opportunities. Their efforts led to 21 goals in the last term, securing a 58-goal victory.

This commanding performance concluded the home and away season on a high note.

Euroa claimed the minor premiership in the Goulburn Valley League, boosting their confidence for the upcoming final against Mooroopna next week.

Final Score: Euroa 81 defeated Mansfield 23.

IN CONTROL: Bree Poole holds up the action as she plots her next move.

Best Players: Sophie Owen, Eliza Hoare, Tylah Marchbank.

B GRADE By SALLY REDFERN EUROA’s B Grade team delivered a dazzling netball performance in their final game of the 2023 season.

Beneath a brilliant blue sky and cheered on by a large, loyal crowd, the Magpies commanded the game from the opening whistle to the closing moments.

Ruby Watson and Chloe Salter stepped up from the Juniors, embracing their first taste of B grade.

Both girls demonstrated remarkable composure, leading confidently and passing purposefully.

They fearlessly embraced the heightened physicality of the game.

The defensive unit showed no mercy, with Millie Watson, Sienna Trotter, and Kelly Hill asserting dominance over the Mansfield goalers.

The defenders consistently intercepted, rebounded, and redirected play, translating into Magpie goals.

Caitlyn Elliott’s center court performance earned her the title of best on court.

Her ability to finish the game with the same intensity she started left Eagles supporters in awe.

Although no surprise to locals, her stamina was truly remarkable.

Abbie Ellis displayed her versatility by assuming goaling duties after two fastpaced quarters on the wing.

Stepping in for the accurate Sarah Ternes, who had an A grade game ahead, Abbie

Under 18s ignited for last game for the 2023 season

EFNC - UNDER 18

By SCOTT WALTERS

A BEAUTIFUL sunny winter morning welcomed Mansfield as they journeyed over the hill to Memorial Oval.

Euroa’s ranks were bolstered by the return of Will Creevey and Mitch Walters from the senior team, along with several U16 players.

The Euroa boys were ignited for the last game of the season with unwavering intensity.

Caid Miller set the tone with an early robust bump, followed by Mitch Walters, who elevated the tackling intensity.

Euroa swarmed the opposition with numbers, displaying remarkable camaraderie throughout the day.

seamlessly teamed up with the dynamic Molly Redfern, who shone in the goal ring.

Navigating the congested goal area with finesse, Molly showcased her movement skills and self-confidence, making long shots appear effortlessevidence of a skill she undoubtedly inherited.

The nearly flawless netball showcase marked a splendid conclusion to the season.

Transitioning into the role of supporters, the B grade girls, joined by the entire Euroa community, rally behind the A grade side.

They aim to secure the first A grade premiership in 40 years.

Final Score: Euroa 51 defeated Mansfield 21.

Best Players: Caitlyn Elliott, Kelly Hill, Molly Redfern.

The first score for Euroa came from Alif Chambers, securing a behind, followed by another rushed behind.

Creevey’s initial scoring attempt was touched on the line, resulting in a behind.

Euroa demonstrated confidence that they have cultivated over the season, effectively executing strategic ball switches.

Baxter Fraser dominated the ruck contests, while Max Miller held strong across

half-back.

Dublin Anderson proved his mettle in the unfamiliar role of fullback.

Will Creevey earned another behind before landing an impressive goal from deep in the pocket.

In the last quarter, Alif Chambers added another goal to Euroa’s tally.

With this under 18s game marking the season’s end, let’s extend our gratitude to the multitude of volunteers who make each week’s footy game possible.

A huge thanks goes out to coach Andrew Hill and his assistants, the dedicated individuals who prepare the oval, the goal umpire, timekeepers, scorekeepers, boundary umpire, Gazette contributors, trainers, runners, water carriers, and our invaluable game day sponsors.

Your efforts are deeply appreciated.

Final scores: Euroa 2-6-18 defeated by Mansfield 11-1278

Best players: Mitchell Walters, Will Creevey, Max Miller, Tynan Cummins, Dublin Anderson, Blake Hepworth.

GREAT CONNECTION: Sophie Owen shows off her strong

LASER PRECISION:

The sharp shooter Sarah Ternes dominates the second half for A grade.

Hill

Bickerton Strathbogie

Jacqui Thomson Choices Flooring by Thomsons

passing game.

PHOTOS: Dale Mann

CHARLI EXCELS IN IN PETSTOCK EQUESTRIAN

Finals bound off the back of win

Thrilling victory on home turf as the Magpies looking to finals with an air of confidence

EFNC - SENIOR FOOTBALL

By SCOTT WATSON

A CRACKING day for football presented last Saturday at Memorial Oval in Euroa as the Magpies took on the Mansfield Eagles in their top-six encounter.

The football promised to be uncompromising and tough with both sides delivering on this in spades.

A huge crowd in attendance were entertained by some excellent country football.

Jett Trotter bagged three goals throughout the afternoon to finish second on the GVL goal kicking ladder for the home and away season –a wonderful effort from the club vice captain.

Max Gleeson was again his unstoppable self in the middle of the ground with tackle after tackle being felt by the Mansfield players.

Jack McKernan, back in the side for his first game in a couple of months, took to the game like a duck to water as he defended brilliantly, adding another string to the bow for the team in the back half.

Erish Uthayakumar, Tristan Davies and Adam Giobbi all retuned to the side and playing up forward were bound to cause havoc throughout the afternoon – which they did – the supply to these key forwards will get better each week no doubt.

Young gun Cohen Paul was also back in the team and made sure his opponent was held accountable as he looked very dangerous all over the ground – his high marking and long left foot kicks a highlight.

Will Hayes was his normal best despite having a heavy tag showed his class round the ground with captain Jacob Gleeson putting in an excellent display throughout the four quarters.

The game was certainly a see-sawing affair with Mansfield looking to take it right up to the Euroa team on their home deck.

Steadying goals from Tristan Davies, Andrew Bell and that man Jett Trotter put paid to any chance of an upset as the home side finished off the season with a win in round 18.

This team now head to their elimination final next weekend and play Mooroopna in Rochester on Sunday, September 3 at 2pm.

Get along for what will be a ripper of a game and one the Pies need to win to stay alive in the finals for 2023.

Final scores: Euroa

11.7.73 defeated Mansfield

8.7.55

Best players: Jacob Gleeson, Jett Trotter, Andrew Smith, Jack McKernan, Andrew Bell

Goal kickers: Jett Trotter (three), Tristan Davies (two), Adam Giobbi (two), Andrew Bell (one), Jayden Gleeson (one), Cohen Paul (one), Erish Uthayakumar (one).

RESERVES

By NICK McCABE

FOLLOWING a narrow round one defeat against the Mansfield Eagles and a disappointing performance against Kyabram the previous week, the Euroa Reserves were seeking redemption in the final home and away game of the season.

The glorious weather provided optimal playing conditions, and the game commenced at a blistering tempo.

Euroa scored the first major of the afternoon, quickly countered by a reply from Mansfield.

It became evident early on that Euroa’s midfield had an edge over the Eagles; however, the question remained whether Euroa could capitalise on this advantage.

The back six worked cohesively to counter Mansfield’s inside 50s, with smooth transitions aided by wingman Caden Robinson’s excellent run and carry.

At the quarter-time break, Euroa led 4.2.26 to Mansfield’s 1.1.7.

The second quarter proved to be an arm wrestle, with neither side revealing their full potential.

Despite the Eagles gaining momentum, Euroa’s players like Zac Gleeson, Craig Bamford, and JD Hayes continued to influence the contest.

The back six maintained their efforts to prevent Mansfield from scoring, although a couple of easy goals out the back allowed the Eagles to consistently score.

At half-time, the scoreboard displayed Euroa 7.4.46, Mansfield 4.2.25.

In the third quarter, Mansfield emerged firing, scoring the first two majors and increasing the pressure on Euroa.

The lead was reduced to just 9 points.

Euroa countered with goals of their own, but by the final break, their lead had narrowed to only 13 points.

Entering the final quarter

with everything on the line and inspired by a message from Linc McKernan, Euroa was determined not to back down.

Mansfield managed the first goal through a swift center clearance, narrowing the lead to seven points.

However, this goal ignited a spark in Euroa.

They proceeded to score five unanswered goals, essentially securing the victory to the delight of a packed Memorial Oval.

When the final siren sounded, Euroa emerged victorious with a score of 16.10.106 defeating the Mansfield Eagles with 10.5.65.

Congratulations to everyone involved on a stellar

2023 campaign, highlighted by Robert Wilson’s leagueleading 60 goals for the season.

The Reserve team will now face a do-or-die Elimination final on Saturday, September 2, at the Benalla Showgrounds against Echuca, starting at 12pm.

Best Players: Craig Bamford, Zac Gleeson, Nicholas McCabe, JD Hayes, Lincoln McKernan

Goal Kickers: Craig Bamford (three), Zac Gleeson (three), Ben Harrison (two), JD Hayes (one), Nic Hill (one), Peter Cairns (one), Declan Redfern (one), Chris McKay (one), Nic Burke (one), Robert Wilson (one), Caden Robinson (one).

FORWARD MOMENTUM: Jett Trotter skillfully switches on his trusty left foot.

INTENSE BATTLE: Cohen Paul engages in a one-on-one battle against his Eagles opponent.

HIGH CONTACT: Ben Giobbi applying relentless Magpie pressure on his opponent.

PLAY MAKER: Andrew Smith controls the play vs Mansfieild on the weekend.

PHOTOS: Dale Mann