Mansfield Courier 170424

HAPPY DAYS

and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) has ruled for the removal of four shipping containers, a sign, and other building works at a commercial laundry located at 195 Mt Buller Road, Mansfield, which Mansfield Shire Council said had been established without proper planning permits as the business expanded. Council said the additional structures erected without permits raised concerns as they did not align with the planning controls of the Mansfield Planning Scheme. Owners of AJs Laundry, Andrew and Juliet Jurrjens, said the sign referred to in council’s media release about the decision was there for 30 years before the laundry and used by other businesses.

“A permit is not required for signage on the road, as acknowledged by VCAT, however council put it in the last permit despite our objections,” they said.

“Council did agree before the hearing to drop that from the compliance, and council could choose to amend the permit, but chose not to and is going back on its word at the prehearing conference.”

In the reasons for its decision, VCAT acknowledged that “the

alpine approaches are considered important within Mansfield Shire as areas that provide residents and visitors with a pleasant entry experience to the shire and contribute to the amenity of the area”.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said that this was at the heart of the issue.

“We recognise that this business was expanding and providing more services to our community, and that’s a great thing,” he said.

“The issue in this case was that structures were added without a permit, and they did not respect the township’s character.

“We take compliance with the Mansfield Planning Scheme seriously, especially at the alpine approaches.

“When we became aware of these added structures, we engaged with the operators and sought to help them understand the requirements and comply, and we regret that

the matter has ultimately needed a VCAT order.”

In response, Mr and Mrs Jurrjens said that as stated in the VCAT McDonald’s case, there is no real consistent theme to the approaches of Mansfield and denied the veracity of council’s statement that they tried several times to attempt to engage with them.

“There are many such structures, such as at the Dairy, along Mt Buller Road,” they said.

■ Continued page 8

AFTER a four-year break, the Jamieson Autumn Festival made its much-anticipated return at the weekend, delivering a sunny day filled with festivities for all ages. FULL STORY on page 19. Pictured (from left) Samantha Atherton, Milly Kolb, Charlotte Atherton and Tahlia Hinton.

PHOTO: Jamie Buscombe of Jamie Kaye Photography

Stadium finally named in honour of ‘Chumpy’

By LYNN ELDER

MANSFIELD’s dual court stadium has finally been named in honour of champion snowboarder, Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin, after a long wait and two community engagement campaigns at both local and state government level over the past couple of years.

In what has been a bittersweet time for the family of Alex Pullin, who tragically died while spearfishing in the Gold Coast in July, 2020, last week’s announcement by the state Minister for Education, Ben Carroll, was welcomed.

The family was approached by Mansfield Shire Council in 2021 about naming the stadium after ‘Chumpy’.

“Council said they would like to use his name and we were happy for that,” said Alex’s father, Chris Pullin.

But Mansfield Shire Council didn’t have the naming rights; the state Department of Education did.

After another long awaited engagement campaign, the final public vote was 67 per cent support for the stadium to be named after ‘Chumpy’ and the other four suggested names made up the remaining percentage, according to Chris Pullin.

“We feel so overwhelmingly supported in Chumpy’s honour by council and the community who were so unwavering,” said Mr Pullin.

Now residing on the NSW coast, with Alex’s mother Sally, Mr Pullin, who ran a ski hire business in Mansfield, speaks fondly of the family’s time here and the ongoing relationships.

He hopes the new signage on the stadium will include Alex’s well known nickname – a name

used by his parents when he was a toddler that stuck all through his life.

“Chumpy grew up in Mansfield with his little sister Emma, the two kids had a wonderful life,” said Mr Pullin.

There is a huge hole in the Pullin family with the loss of Chumpy who was described by his father as “my best friend”.

For this reason, Mr Pullin hopes the stadium will be much more than just a building with a name on it and represent the values and philosophy of his son which included supporting the development of young people to achieve what they want.

“He was the only kid from a public school who participated in race club practices on Mt Buller, unlike the other kids who stayed on the mountain,” he said.

The 12 year old Mansfield Sec-

ondary College student had to get up at 5am to get transport to the on-mountain practices.

“When waiting in the cold for practice to start, he never begrudged it,” said Mr Pullin.

Mr Pullin said he would love to see the Mansfield stadium forge links with the Chumpy Pullin Foundation, created to carry on Alex’s legacy and his desire to support people in a meaningful way, and the family are looking forward to attending a naming ceremony of the stadium hopefully later this year.

Officially opened on February 25, 2022, the dual court stadium facility is shared between the shire and the secondary college.

It has two full size basketball courts which can also host netball, badminton and indoor soccer.

Construction of the stadium was a joint $6.94 million project

between Mansfield Shire Council, Mansfield Secondary College, and the Victorian Department of Education.

The council contributed $0.97million and received $3.4million funding from the federal government’s Building Better Regions.

The Victorian Government contributed $2.57million.

“Council has advocated for the naming of the stadium to honour the memory of the most wellknown winter athlete Mansfield has produced,” said Mayor Cr Steve Rabie.

“We are very pleased that the stadium has been named Alex Pullin Stadium to honour the late Olympic legend. “Council would like to acknowledge the Pullin family at this time and will work with them to determine an appropriate acknowledgement of this honour.”

McLeish slams cuts to regional hospitals

LOCAL MP for Eildon, Cindy McLeish has slammed the state government for their savage cuts to regional hospitals.

In a media release published last week, Ms McLeish said regional and rural health services across the Hume Region, including our local hospitals are facing forced amalgamations, service cuts and closures as the Allan Labor Government slashes millions in health funding.

“Labor cannot manage money, cannot manage our health system and Victorians are paying the price,” said Ms Mcleish.

The release continued that weeks ahead of the upcoming state budget, reports have indicated Labor is forcing unrealistic savings targets on all of Victoria’s 76 health services, including Alexandra District Health, Yea & District Memorial Hospital and Mansfield District Hospital which will collectively see millions cut over coming years.

These funding cuts follow confirmation that more than a dozen regional health services suffered operating losses across 2022-23, with projections that by June 2024 more than half of Victoria’s health services face negative daily cash balances.

“These funding cuts by stealth are the real-world consequence of Labor’s financial mismanagement and, it is patients across rural and regional Victoria who will suffer,” continued Ms McLeish.

“These cuts and threats of largescale amalgamations demonstrate the disregard Labor has for our local community.”

“This is not the first-time health services have been amalgamated, there are already a number of hospitals in the west of the state that have been forced to amalgamate to survive.”

“Make no mistake, these are not changes to improve efficiency, but desperate and savage cuts triggered by Labor’s financial mismanagement.”

The 2024-25 state budget will be delivered on Tuesday 7 May 2024.

Burglary at local school

POLICE are seeking information in relation to a burglary at a school in Mansfield at approximately 4am on Sunday March 24. Police are appealing to anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the vicinity of Apollo Street or with any information that may assist their investigation to contact Benalla Criminal Investigation Unit on 03 5760 0200. Reference: 240116337

HAPPY PLACE: Mansfield’s dual court stadium has finally been named in honour of champion snowboarder, Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin.

PHOTO: Chris Pullin

Ceremony welcomes two new citizens to shire

By LYNN ELDER

THE Mansfield Shire welcomed its two newest Australian citizens at a citizenship ceremony last week where residents Paul Harrop and Jennifer Ellis pledged their allegiance to their adopted home country.

Deputy Mayor Cr Mark Holcombe welcomed those to be conferred and their family and friends at the Mansfield Shire Council chambers on Tuesday morning, April 9, saying out of all the events council runs, the citizenship ceremony is one of the most enjoyable.

Before an address by Mayor Cr Steve Rabie, a short video featuring former Australian citizens of the year was played.

Common themes throughout the video were “inclusion and acceptance”, “respecting each other”, “oldest surviving culture”, and “all the same”.

“At the end of today we have two new citizens, congratulations on your commitment to be part of Australia’s future,” Cr Rabie said.

He shared a message from the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs of Australia, Andrew Giles, who thanked the new citizens for joining in the making of one of the most successful multicultural countries.

Cr Rabie commended Mr Harrop and Ms Ellis for standing up before their community to pledge their loyalty to Australia.

Following the formal citizenship certificate presentation, the state member for Eildon, Cindy McLeish, made a short address.

“It is a great opportunity to speak to people and hear their back stories,” said Ms McLeish.

Injecting some humour into the proceedings, she urged the new citizens to swear allegiance to Pat Cummins, his cricket team, and the Australian women’s team.

“Australia is a wonderful place, and the Mansfield Shire allows people to thrive,” Ms McLeish said.

Mr Harrop, who lives at Goughs Bay, came to Australia as a four-year-old with his Lancastrian parents from Manchester, England.

His love of the Mansfield area grew from his childhood trips to his family’s on-site caravan at Goughs Bay.

“I moved here in 1995 because I also loved the country life,” Mr Harrop said.

Together with his partner Cassy, he worked at Buller Freight until 2021.

“I wanted to become a citizen for years but work got in the way,” he said.

It was time to get it done, Mr Harrop said.

“All my daughters and two grandchildren are here,” said New Zealand-born Ms Ellis regarding her decision to become an Australian citizen.

The ceremony was followed by a morning tea, which included the iconic lamington.

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CITIZENSHIP CEREMONY: Last week one of two new Australian citizens Paul Harrop was conferred at the Mansfield Shire Council Chamber by Mayor Cr Steve Rabie and Cindy McLeish, state member for Eildon.

PHOTOS: Trinity Knight

Accused faces assault and damage charges at court

LAST week at court an accused faced charges of property damage and assault following a domestic incident and received a $300 fine and a conviction.

Police prosecutors outlined an incident on November 11, 2022, when at around 11:20 PM, the accused returned home and encountered connectivity difficulties with her phone, hindering her plans to watch a movie.

In frustration, she confronted her son, who was preparing to take the Xbox to his room for the night.

Angered, the accused shattered the top right corner of the TV screen, and threw the remote to the ground, resulting in it breaking into pieces.

Both the TV and Xbox belonged to the accused.

Upon witnessing the destruc-

tion, her son swore at her and demanded the accused leave the house, to which she responded by punching him in the jaw.

The accused’s other son called triple zero while the victim remained outside until the police arrived.

After midnight, the police ar-

rived, detained the accused, and issued a Family Violence Safety Notice.

Subsequently, the accused admitted to the assault.

“I did hit him, but he said a lot more than that,” the accused told police.

The accused accepted the

summary of events during court proceedings.

Addressing the court, the accused apologised, attributing the incident to a gross misunderstanding.

She said that since the incident she had spent time in rehabilitation and was currently pursuing studies at a university.

When asked about her relationship with her son, the accused said it was “fantastic” and that they “speak all the time.”

The magistrate acknowledged the accused’s efforts to rehabilitate and study and imposed a $300 fine and a conviction based on her prior record.

“I appreciate you’re back on track with your head down studying,” said the magistrate, before resolving the matter.

New food and garden scraps bin coming soon

FROM July 2024, a new green bin collection service will be introduced in Mansfield Shire.

Mansfield Shire residents will soon receive a letter advising how the service will be rolled out for their property and what actions they may need to take.

Separately processing food organics and garden organics (FOGO) waste allows it to be diverted from landfill and instead creates a compost product that can be reused for agriculture and landscaping.

The existing red and yellow bin collection frequency will remain unchanged.

The new green bin will be collected fortnightly, alternating with the yellow bin. It can be used for items such as food scraps, bones, grass clippings, branches and other plant matter.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said the new service will help make the shire cleaner, healthier and more environmentally friendly.

“The change we’re making now will have a big impact in the future,” he said. “Caring for the environment

is a priority, and we know that as our shire grows the impact of our waste will grow too.”

Feedback from temporary residents and visitors showed that they were less likely to require a regular collection service.

As a result, the service is being offered as an option in townships with high numbers of nonresident ratepayers.

Feedback also showed that farms and larger rural properties have distinct waste management practices, with many already composting their FOGO waste independently.

Due to this, collection services for properties in rural living zones will continue unchanged and properties who do not receive a green bin will not be charged for it.

FOGO: From July 2024, a new green bin collection service will be introduced in Mansfield Shire.

Buller and Stirling ready for snow season

IT IS less than 60 days until the King’s Birthday long weekend festivities that mark the official start of the snow season at Mt Buller Mt Stirling resort.

Mt Buller celebrates the major milestone of 100 years of skiing this winter.

The early pioneers from that first group of skiers with the Ski Club of Victoria would be amazed to see the changes since their inaugural Mt Buller ski trip that started it all in July 1924. Guests this winter will enjoy the reassurance of yet another snow factory adding to the snow cover.

Mt Buller was an early-adopter of this game-changing snow technology in 2017 and the latest investment of $2 million brings the count of snow factories at Mt Buller to five.

The new SF220 Snow Factory will sit at the top of the Northside Express on Burnt Hut adding to the cover in this popular beginner zone.

With more snowmaking assets the resort now has even greater flexibility to make snow exactly where it’s needed for skiers, snowboarders and snow players who can plan their winter visit with confidence.

A new ‘docking station’ has been shaped at the top of Chamois run to host a mobile snow factory ensuring snow is available to support the vibrant culture of moguls and aerials, events such as the ABOM Mogul Challenge and training for winter Olympians in this zone.

In addition to the snow factories the resort has added innovative low energy air guns along some key runs and behind the scenes there is improved automation in the pump house which adds up to a smarter use

of energy and water and betterquality snow across the ski area.

A large solar panel installation on the workshop roof is generating 48,000kWh and avoids putting 57 tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere annually.

“As we head into each season we challenge ourselves to deliver a better experience for guests, and these investments help us to be smarter in how we make snow, how we groom, farm and maintain the ski area so that snow lasts longer, how we use resources efficiently and work in harmony with our alpine environment,” Buller Ski Lifts General Manager Noel Landry explained.

Guests this winter are enjoying a better experience online long before they arrive in resort with a completely redesigned website and a helpful ‘My Planner’ tool to tailor and save their

searches as they plan a snow holiday.

Mt Buller’s website helps visitors plan and bundle everything they want for an ideal snow escape including accommodation, lift passes, lessons, rental, resort entry and even activities such as the Air Zone.

In other changes around the mountain, skiers and boarders will notice some new access gates as Buller Ski Lifts continues to invest in smarter technology to smooth the journey onto lifts.

There is a carpet lift going in at the Magic Forest to make learning even more fun for the smallest skiers on the mountain and the lights on Chamois run will be shining more brightly for evening events and training.

Alpine Resorts Victoria Mt Buller Mt Stirling has had a busy summer with projects includ-

ing improvements to the bus arrival zone in the village and the medical centre as well as maintenance on village roads and sewers.

This week 15,000 shrubs, herbs and native ground covers that have been propagated from local cuttings and seeds are being planted on the northern face of the Boggy Creek Reservoir.

Visitors are invited to enjoy the mountain bike and walking trails on Mt Buller and Mt Stirling for the final weeks of the ‘green season’.

The new RockWire climb experience off the Mt Buller summit has bookings available until Friday May 3 and will reopen in November.

The roads to Mt Buller and Mt Stirling are open and vehicle access is available to the Mt Buller village until the start of the gazetted snow season, from June 7.

conditions across the region with an

in rain has allowed for fire restrictions to ease, said CFA deputy chief officer North East, Ross Sullivan. Landowners must still register their burnoffs, check weather conditions and follow local council laws, as well as EPA laws and applicable regulations.

Landowners can register their burn-off online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au or call 1800 668 511.

If possible, landowners should also notify their neighbours and others nearby who may be sensitive to smoke so they can take necessary precautions.

PROMISING: Early dustings of snow at Mt Buller on April 9 bode well for the snow season ahead. PHOTO: BSL

Gone forever

THE majestic old red gums now getting the chop to make way for housing estates are gone forever.

Standing majestically for over 150 years, they survived everything but progress!

Future generations will only see paddocks full of houses where once these beautiful trees once stood.

Planning Permits must include a register of every tree and trees should be part of every new housing estate

Mary Parker, Mansfield

Where are the workers?

I WAS sadly disappointed with your article which didn’t answer the question.

Instead, you entertained your readers with a list of programs to attract new labour from outof-towners through increased housing options, funding this with our hard earned taxes. You could have answered the question with the following:

1. Laid off by businesses that were shut down by the ‘lock downs’ (enforced rigorously by OUR shire) who couldn’t afford to continue paying them.

2. Sacked for refusing to take ‘mandated’ vaxes that were only

OUT OF OWNERS: Four friends of some 30 years recently met in Mansfield to revisit a number of historic properties they purchased and restored in the 1980’s, including the Sartain Chambers, Begley’s Store, Begley’s Cottage and the farmhouse known as Lime Kilns, saving many from proposed plans for demolition and giving the town the buildings the Travellers Lodge and Backpackers occupy today. Pictured (from left)

advisory (not legal), and neither safe, nor effective against transmission.

3. Many were so hurt by their mistreatment that they will never return to their previous positions - they’ve found other forms of income, independent of government or corporate dictates.

4. Others left the most ‘locked-up’, ‘shut-up’ and mandated state in the world, to take up residence elsewhere.

5. Some were adversely affected by the vaxes (physically, mentally, emotionally), which were promised to be ‘safe’, and some may even have lost their lives as a result.

I’m aware those outlined above aren’t all the workers in Mansfield (or any other community in Australia), but we couldn’t miss the lack of labour, and I think it is amiss of your article to not propose any reasonable explanation to your readers.

Mark Shelling, Mansfield

Who would bother?

LIKE so many people, I am appalled at the wilful destruction of the magnificent red gums of Mansfield.

Apart from their inherent beauty, they are home to so many native creatures, including the glider possum and powerful owl.

Our mayor, explaining why our council can do nothing but has good intentions, says “these changes will take a few years to see the impacts”.

Does he mean a few hundred years?

Later in the paper there are advertisements to “stand for council” and “deliver democracy and representation”.

Who would bother when so much is predetermined to 2040. Sue McGorlick, Boorolite

Mike Davidson, Ken Silvers, Geoff Ritter, John Brearley, Barbara Brearley, and Vivianne Ritter.

strike action if negotiations with the state government over a new enterprise bargaining agreement fail.

Conciliation between the government, the Department of Human Services and the Australian Nurses Federation (ANF) are now in progress, with the results expected on April 20.

A pay rise and the retention of the nurse patient ratio are the main sticking points, with ANF (Victorian

Way Back Wednesday - a look back at what was making news 15 years ago this week.

branch) industrial relations organiser and spokesman for the North East Denis O’Callaghan saying nurses were not afraid to dig their heels in.

IN sport, last Saturday in Benalla saw Mansfield start the season in a great fashion with a resounding victory of 38 points.

Any contest between the Eagles and the Saints is always a highly competitive game and this was no exception as both teams played a hard and fast brand of footy.

Community events feature in March

MAYOR’S REPORT - Council

Meeting April 16, 2024

MARCH has been an important month for progressing a number of key council initiatives, while celebrating our community with a range of events.

I was fortunate to be able to attend some of these great events, including the Merrijig Rodeo, the Poets of Potters –Pottery Festival launch, the High-Country Arena launch and the Bald Archy viewing.

I’ve also been busy visiting some of our outlying communities including attending the launch of the Jamieson Community Energy Node Project along with Helen Haines,

Federal Member for Indi who officially opened the event.

The project is a joint initiative of the Jamieson community and Renewal Energy Mansfield who, with the support of council, delivered solar panels, battery, inverter and an EV charging Station to the Jamieson Memorial Hall – a Neighbourhood Safer Place, securing backup power for the community in emergency situations.

One of the highlights was my trip to Woods Point and Gaffney’s Creek, with the

monthly library visit.

This service has been a constant connection between Mansfield and our furthest outlying communities and was a most satisfying visit to listen to their concerns.

Works are currently underway making improvements to the Lords Reserve surface to allow for greater use through winter.

These works will continue through to the end of May and in the meantime, sporting clubs who usually use this ground can continue to train at the recently upgraded College Park which has seen extensive irrigation and additional topsoil to improve the playing surface.

A

CHANGING OF THE GUARD

The last eight years have been the happiest of my professional life. It has been a pleasure to the practice. for your support!

We have been working on an innovative strategy for key worker housing.

We partnered with developers, financiers, government representatives and other stakeholders to discuss how we could partner to help ease the key worker housing shortage.

The second workshop was held with a large number of participants, and every one of them was highly engaged and committed to great outcomes for our community.

This is the final term for the current council with local government elections occurring across the state in October.

Becoming a councillor has

provided me with many challenges and many opportunities to make a real difference and contribution to my community.

I have found it to be incredibly rewarding.

I’d like to encourage others who are passionate about their community to consider putting up their hand to stand for council.

If you’d like to find out a bit more about what the role entails, there are a number of information sessions occurring across the region in the lead up to the elections, both in person and online, making it easy to learn about how you can contribute to making our shire a better

place to live, work and play

Tuesday June 11: Goulburn Ovens Murray session one –host: Strathbogie Shire Council;

Wednesday June 12: Goulburn Ovens Murray session two – host: Mitchell Shire Council;

Thursday June 13: Goulburn Ovens Murray session three – host: Wangaratta Rural City Council;

Wednesday June 26: Mansfield Shire Council session, Council Chamber, 33 Highett Street, Mansfield.

Keep an eye out on our website for further information and details of how to register to attend any of these sessions.

MANSFIELD nurses could take

started the season off strong with a resounding victory of 38 points over the Benalla Saints.

NURSES STRIKE OPTION: Mansfield nurses could take strike action if negotiations with the state government over a new enterprise agreement fail.

EAGLES OPEN WITH WIN: Mansfield Eagles RSES nurses

MAYOR’S REPORT with Mayor Cr Steve Rabie

Strong stance or spin cycle?

■ From page 1

“We did engage with the previous coordinator of planning, and he said he would get back to us and then he left council as many staff have done, without leaving instructions to anyone else.

“After he didn’t get back to us, we called council and were told he didn’t work there anymore, and they had no record of it.

“We believe this is due to the high turnover of staff at council.”

Council’s general man-

ager infrastructure & planning, Melissa Crane said that ratepayers’ money had been saved by the decision to present to VCAT with council’s own planning staff rather than by hiring external lawyers.

“We’ve been steadily building up capacity in our planning team over a few years now, and this is one of the ways it benefits our ratepayers,” she said. “We’ve also cut down the average time it takes to process a permit application to 42 days in 2023, helping ap-

HAVE A VIEW?

Email your opinion, with contact name and number, to edit.mcourier@nemedia.com.au

plicants to get on with the improvements they want to make.”

Mayor Rabie reiterated council’s planning support for the community.

“Whether you’re a business owner, resident or developer, if you’re considering changes to your property we really encourage you to approach our planning team for support

and guidance,” he said.

The Jurrjens said they tried to do just that and the whole process has had a significant impact on their health.

“We definitely did try to engage,” they said.

“It is upsetting to read this misrepresentation of the facts.

“This is going to have a

Your Council - Your News mansfield

Council Meetings

The upcoming scheduled Council meeting is Tuesday 21 May 2024 at 5pm and will be held both online and in person at the Council Chambers, 33 Highett Street, Mansfield. Go to the events section on our website for more information about how to observe the meeting or contact Customer Service on 5775 8555.

Work With Us

Council currently has the following employment opportunities available. For full details visit Council's website mansfield.vic.gov.au

Youth Peer Worker Disaster Recovery

Fire Restrictions Ending

CFA fire restrictions are ending in Mansfield Shire on 18 April 2024. If you are planning to undertake any burn-off please exercise care and notify neighbours in advance. It is recommended you notify the CFA via firepermits.vic.gov.au/notify or call 1800 668 511 to prevent an unecessary brigade turn-out. If the fire does burn out of control, ring 000 without delay. Please note Council Local Law restrictions continue to apply to burning off within township, commerical and industrial zoned locations and permits are required to do so.

MAV Stand for Council

Council has partnered with the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) to deliver the 2024 Stand for Council: Community and Candidate Information Sessions.

The Stand for Council Program provides prospective candidates important

information regarding the 2024 council elections, the role of council and the responsibilities of being a councillor. It aims to build community awareness to understand the important role of voters in delivering local democracy and representation.

Sessions relevant to Mansfield Shire prospective candidates are as follows. These will be offered both inperson and online via MS Teams:

Tuesday 11 June 6pm: Goulburn Ovens Murray

Session 1 – Host: Strathbogie Shire Council

Wednesday 12 June 6pm: Goulburn Ovens Murray

Session 2 – Host: Mitchell Shire Council

Thursday 13 June 6pm: Goulburn Ovens Murray

Session 3 – Host: Wangaratta Rural City Council

Wednesday 26 June 6pm: Mansfield Shire Council facilitated session

For more information on the Stand for Council program and to register your attendance scan the QR code or visit mansfield.vic.gov.au/MAV-Stand-for-Council

Jamieson Toilet Upgrades

Upgrades to Jamieson’s public toilets on Perkins Street are planned for 22–26 April, addressing plumbing and drainage issues.

The toilets will remain available for use while works take place, with some areas fenced off.

Kirsten Alexander, Chief Executive Officer

significant impact on the tourism industry as we will have to lose approximately 25 per cent of our capacity impacting approximately 100 customers.”

A representative of one of the largest holiday rental companies in the region, who requested anonymity for fear of council reprisal, said they would have had serious challenges running their business without the support of the laundry.

“We wish AJs every success in finding a commercially viable premises where

they can continue to flourish and grow, rather than be restricted by an inconsistent approach to planning and supporting the regions allied industries,” the business representative said.

“A council demanding a commercial business through VCAT to landscape their commercially zoned land, for the benefit of the “Alpine Approach” is simply absurd.

“What’s next?

“Demanding businesses on Deadhorse Lane landscape their front yards?”

Don’t Lose Your Right to Vote

The state government is changing who is automatically enrolled to vote in local government elections. To retain the right to have your say about who represents you in local government, you may need to apply to enrol to vote.

If you pay rates here but your primary residence is listed elsewhere, please contact Council to enrol to vote. Some businesses and corporations may be entitled to apply to enrol to vote in Mansfield Shire too – more information for people who run a business can be found on Council’s website.

Some people will automatically be enrolled, including Australian citizens who are 18 and over and live in Mansfield Shire as their primary residence. Enrolling for council elections means you get to have a say in who represents your community. Ensure you keep your voice in these elections by enrolling to vote.

mansfield.vic.gov.au/Voting2024

Cambridge Drive Drainage Upgrade

Drainage works are planned from 29 April to address ongoing flooding issues in the easement between Cambridge Drive and Dead Horse Lane.

The works will involve creating an open swale drain along the easement, including fencing between properties and gates allowing access for maintenance. Works are expected to take 2 weeks to complete.

The road to recovery: to recovery: Danielle’s story

By TRINITY KNIGHT

Mresident

Hutchins was competing in her first season of Australian rules football last year on the Benalla Saints women’s football team when the worst happened.

Dannielle went in for a tackle with another girl which led to a tragic accident.

Her partner Carla Hutchins watched the event unfold from the sidelines.

“The girl dropped a bit lower and sent Danni flying about a meter up in the air and when she came down, she landed on her head,” Carla said.

“You often hear about concussions or see them on tv and just think it will be fine and then the footballers come back and play a week later.”

Danielle still doesn’t remember anything that happened during or following the accident.

“She was knocked out cold,” Carla said.

“That Saturday they raced her straight in for scans and she had two bleeds on the brain.

“That’s when the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne got involved and they monitored her for a week in hospital, but she didn’t actually come back from the concussion until the Wednesday, and she was very confused.”

Danielle spent three months recovering in the

brain rehabilitation unit and transitional living services to help get her back to doing everyday activities.

As a result of the accident, she has short term memory loss and can’t retain any new information.

“Anything prior to the accident is fine, but since then unfortunately they had to let her go from work and she’s lost her licence, because she suffers from vestibular migraines,” Carla said.

“They come on very quickly and she also suffers from BPV (Benign Positional Vertigo) which is a sensation of spinning or swaying which comes on in bouts.

“The neurosurgeons at the Alfred said that if Danielle takes another knock to the head she will end up in a vegetative state.

“She’s not allowed to play any contact sports at all, and it’s really disheartened Danni because she’s always wanted to play.”

Danielle had big dreams for her career prior to the accident.

“I was working full time at Mansfield Pre-Mix, and I was a concrete truck driver,” she said.

“I miss it a lot as well as meeting new people.”

Danielle has had to regain basic motor and verbal skills following the incident, but she continues to be positive.

“I had to learn how to walk again; how to shower by myself; how to talk and

WE SAY TO GIRLS STARTING FOOTY ALWAYS WEAR PROTECTION, HEAD GEAR IS A DEFINITE MUST AND MAKE SURE YOU’RE COVERED IF AN ACCIDENT HAPPENS.

DANIELLE HUTCHINS

string a sentence together,” Danielle said.

Carla said Danielle has been in speech therapy, but she still has difficulty retaining information and getting it out within conversations.

“She knows in her head what it’s supposed to be or what the word is meant to be, but trying to share what she is thinking with others is where she often gets confused,” Carla said.

“Losing your identity, depression and anxiety is very common with this sort of thing and Danni has gotten to some really low places as a result of this.

“She’ll put something on the stove and forget it’s on, so she must have carers with her all the time to prevent her from burning the house down or hurting herself.

“We go to the Alfred every three months and

there’s not a week that goes by that we don’t have an appointment with someone.”

Seymour based mental health specialist

Elizabeth Kruck said Danielle is doing everything she can to stay on top of her mental health and wellbeing against the odds.

“Where she could have easily become bitter and overwhelmed by her experiences and hardship, instead she is courageously

staying connected to community and bravely puts her hand up for support when she needs to,” Ms Kruck said.

Danielle is currently volunteering at the Mansfield Football Club, and it is her goal to raise awareness about how to minimise the risks of concussion in Australian rules football, such as learning techniques for safe tackling.

“We say to girls starting footy always wear

protection, head gear is a definite must and make sure you’re covered if an accident happens,” Danielle said.

The concussion and brain health position statement released by the Australian Sports Commission in February 2024 said that in Australian rules football 80 out of 100,000 players will get a concussion.

The Benalla Saints women’s football team has since shut down.

The club was contacted for comment.

PHOTO: Trinity Knight

ANSFIELD

Danielle

Children’s book author visits library

By TRINITY KNIGHT

LAST Wednesday, popular Melbourne children’s book author Adam Wallace came to the Mansfield Library for the second time after his first visit in 2017.

Friends of the Mansfield Library funded the event and paid for a copy of one of Adam’s books for each child who attended.

Coordinator of library services Justine Shelton said it was a success with 80 children attending both sessions.

“During the school

holidays we often hold an author talk or art workshop alongside the programs that we usually run,” Ms Shelton said.

“Adam is such a fun and engaging presenter.”

Ms Shelton said it is really great for the children to connect with the author of a book they have enjoyed.

“Talks such as this are a fantastic opportunity to bring young people into the library which connects them with the space and librarians,” she said.

“We hope when children have a go at writing their own stories and creating their own illustrations, they feel encouraged to borrow and read for more inspiration.

“We’re grateful for the support of the friends of the Mansfield Library for this event, which is such a great opportunity for the children in our community.”

Adam started writing in 1999

and self-published his first book in 2004.

Since then, he has written and published more than 100 books.

“Initially I saw a list of words that kids might find funny and then chose two and put them together and created the books with drawings and illustrations,” Mr Wallace said.

“The kids loved them, so I broke up the process with instructions.”

Since then, he has visited over 500 libraries and schools sharing his skills.

Adam loves teaching young people about how reading and drawing can be fun and achievable.

He created six how to draw books which are available to download for free on his website.

“It’s all about kids having fun and learning more about drawing,” Adam said.

“I’m currently writing a musical and it is a big dream of mine to make a movie with digital computer animation in the future.

“At the moment I’m working on two or three different screenplays and books as well.”

POPULAR AUTHOR: Melbourne author and illustrator Adam Wallace visited the Mansfield Library last week.

GETTING CREATIVE: Adam ran two sessions teaching children how to create their own illustrations.

PHOTOS: Trinity Knight

The making of an outlaw, Ned Kelly

THIS Saturday April 20

the Mansfield Historical Society presents ‘The making of an outlaw, Ned Kelly’ as part of the Australian Heritage Festival.

“We’re thrilled to be a part of the festival,” said Mansfield Historical Society president Graeme Stoney.

“The festival offers such an incredible line-up of events though out April and May, not just locally but across the state and the country.

“The Mansfield Shire is rich in history, and it is a privilege to be able to share just one of our many stories at this national event.”

The country’s largest community-driven celebration of heritage, Mansfield’s contribution to the festival includes a tour of local landmarks, memorial sites and locations associated with the ‘Stringybark Creek Massacre’.

Alongside the tour – which is sold-out – the society is also hosting an evening at the Mansfield Golf Club where guests will have the opportunity to listen to guest speakers and historical authorities on the build-up to that fateful day in 1878, the police murders and the resulting aftermath.

The story of the Kelly gang and the chain of events that unfolded after the issuing of arrest warrants for the group is one steeped in folklore, and speakers on the night aim to dispel the myths and return the narrative to one based on historical fact.

Leo Kennedy is an author and the great grandson of Sergeant Michael Kennedy, and as a child he heard the

BY EMMA OLIVER eoliver@ nemedia.com.au

story of how his great grandfather was murdered by the Kelly gang alongside two other policemen at Stringybark Creek.

“My father took me aside and explained the story, and it stunned me that such an exemplary policeman who was so dedicated to the community could be gunned down in the course of duty,” Leo said.

Leo believes that the truth both before, during and after this tragic event has been cast by the wayside driven by books that choose to sensationalise the subject and a tourism industry that has commandeered the story.

The advent of the internet and social media has also exacerbated much of the misinformation.

His life’s mission has been to rectify this false narrative.

Leo’s book Black Snake –The real story of Ned Kelly, focuses on the untold story of his grandfather Sergeant Michael Kennedy, with the book informed by meticulous research and reference to primary documents, articles, public records and relevant literature.

“It is a personal story, a family story, about Michael Kennedy and Ned Kelly and how their histories evolved, became interwoven and the fallout from that, and the impact on all the players.

“Whichever side of history you fall on, both sides and all players were negatively impacted,” Leo said.

“It was not just that fateful day at Stringybark Creek, it was the victims who came before and the events that came after – the widowed wives, fatherless children and families driven from their ancestral homes to try and make it anew.”

As Leo said “there are no winners”, with the impact still felt to this day by family members of all involved.

Many of these family members and descendants have contributed their oral history to Black Snake, shaping the story from a place of mutual respect.

“The priority was about getting all the facts right and that included listening to multiple perspectives,” Leo said.

It is the varying perspectives that attendees will hear about at the April 20 event, with Leo Kennedy being joined by keen local historian Adrian Younger and Hart-

descendant Noeleen Lloyd.

Noeleen Lloyd knows that the story is an incredible piece of Australian history, but it’s also very much a family history and a lived one at that.

Noeleen is the great grandniece of Kelly gang member Steve Hart, and her great grandmother was Rachel Hart, his sister.

Rachel was 10 years old at the siege of Glenrowan, and Noeleen’s father grew up hearing stories from Rachel his grandmother about the time, the incident, and the aftermath.

“My dad was 19 years old when his grandma died in 1958, and that’s what I like people to understand that this is not that far away,” Noeleen.

“It’s my grandfather, and my father and it’s me – that’s how close it is.

“I don’t profess to own the story, but what I do own is my

FOR 25 years, local Matt Leggett was involved with the Mansfield Colonial Reenactment Society.

“We used to do Ned Kelly reenactments at Stringybark Creek and also around Mansfield - at the showgrounds and on the main street and at various festivals,” Matt said.

“The group unfortunately folded a few years ago, but the Mansfield Historical Society knew that I’d been involved with the reenactments and approached me to participate in the event.”

Matt will make an appearance at Stringybark Creek in civilian attire from the period.

“In keeping with historical accuracy, the coppers weren’t in uniform,” Matt said of the massacre.

He will also make an appearance at the Police Monument, along with the courthouse and gravesites.

“I’ll be in police uniform for that aspect of the talk and will read out the arrest warrant that was issued by the Mansfield Magistrates Court, from the steps of the courthouse.”

At the Mansfield Golf Club dinner, Matt will once again don the police uniform, with the costume handmade by one of the founding members of the Mansfield Colonial Reenactment Society.

“I like bringing history alive,” Matt said.

“Dressing in period costume adds authenticity and provides that better understanding of what it was like in the time.

“The shire is very much a part of the Ned Kelly story, despite everybody claiming it over at Glenrowan and in Jerilderie and all those other spots.

“Stringybark Creek is over in Benalla Shire – but only just.

“And the coppers all came from here and it was the citizens of Mansfield who erected the police memorial,” he said.

family’s truth,” she said.

“The story has become so intertwined with myth, with its hero-making and demonizing, that we need to stop embellishing and romanticizing the tale and return to what it should be – the facts and the actual history.

“It has become legendary, but the people who were involved were not.

“They were real people with real lives.

“Four very young men –and they were young at 23, 21, 19 and 17 – made a terrible decision at Stringybark Creek, and the choices they made had a devastating impact on dozens of people’s lives.

“The choices made left three policemen dead and set in motion a tragic chain of events, which didn’t end at the siege of Glenrowan nor when Ned Kelly was hanged at the Old Melbourne goal on November 11, 1880.

“Those boys all died as a

consequence of their actions, and the ripple effect of those actions can be felt to this day with the grief still real and raw for many of the families involved.

“The impact didn’t necessarily affect me growing up, but it certainly affected my father.

“The family always knew their history and were told not to talk about it.

“There were members of the family who were actively encouraged to deny the connection to avoid any repercussions, and those who experienced the very deep shame.

“Back in the generation when this happened, there certainly was a divide.

“But despite all the multigenerational grief and trauma, there no longer is a them and us.

“There is only an us and any divide now is created by others.”

This event is the forerunner to the sequel ‘The Unveiling’ on Thursday, June 6 when the completed artworks are shown together and the winning portraits are selected

Anzac Day a time to reflect

By LYNN ELDER

OUR country pays its respects each year as we gather in cities, towns and villages on Anzac Day, and on Thursday April 25, this most important national occasion again marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War.

“Many personnel from the Mansfield district served in this action and we still remember them,” said Mansfield RSL Sub Branch president Ken Thompson.

“Australians recognise April 25 as a day of national remembrance, which takes two forms.

“Commemorative services are held across the nation at dawn – the time of the original landing, while later in the day, former servicepeople meet to take part in marches through the country’s major cities and in many smaller centres.”

This year’s services will embrace our younger community members through the local schools, Girl Guides, and Scouts, who contribute by laying wreaths, reading poems, flag-raising, and reciting winning essays.

The first commemorative event in Mansfield will be the 6am dawn service at the Menin Gates Memorial in Highett St.

For this year’s early morning service, the padre is the Rev Melissa Clark, and the guest speaker is Mansfield RSL committee member David Bock.

OTHER ANZAC DAY SERVICES

ACROSS MANSFIELD SHIRE

 Jamieson

The Dawn Service will be held at 6am at the War Memorial in Gerrans Reserve, Perkins Street, followed by a traditional gunfire breakfast in the bistro at the Courthouse Hotel.

A gold coin donation is appreciated.

A helicopter flyby with pilot Brett Kay precedes the mid-morning march and service.

Those marching are asked to assemble at 10.45am on the corner of Perkins and Mary Streets.

The main service is in the Jamieson Memorial Hall, which starts midday.

After this service all are welcome at a luncheon in the Courthouse Hotel.

The cost is $10 per head or bring a plate of food to share.

All proceeds will go to Legacy, which supports the families of veterans.

 Bonnie Doon:

The second event is the march, followed by the main service at 10am.

Mr Thompson confirmed the assembly point for those interested in marching is outside the Mansfield RSL in Highett St at 9.40am.

Mansfield RSL member Bill Cummins is this year’s guest speaker and will share about the role of the United Nations peacekeeping activities and his time in Cyprus in the 1970s.

As day breaks, attendees are invited afterwards to the traditional gunfire breakfast at the Mansfield CFA premises, and all are welcome. A gold coin donation is appreciated.

LOCAL MP TO VISIT

STATE member for Eildon, Cindy McLeish is extremely honoured to be representing her electorate and her family at Gallipoli on April 25.

“Travel to this deeply moving and sombre place is one that many Australians, especially those who have a family member who fought there, on their travel wish list,” Ms McLeish said.

“Gallipoli has a very personal significance for me and my family as my grandfather’s brother fought at Gallipoli.

“He went onto the Western Front where, sadly, he lost his life at Pozieres,” she said.

Ms McLeish will be at the sawn service and several others during the trip, including in Ankara.

“If you have any graves from local soldiers, you would like me to visit or poppies to lay as a sign of remembrance, please let me know,” Ms McLeish said.

“I will be thinking of you and wish you all the very best for your ANZAC Day service this year.”

“All organisations and individuals are welcome to lay a wreath during the main service,” said Mr Thompson.

He also warmly welcomes all after the service to join members and veterans for refreshments at the RSL clubrooms.

For those interested in military history, the memorabilia room will also be open for viewing.

The Mansfield RSL also thanks those who have generously supported the 2024 ANZAC Day appeal through merchandise sales.

A Dawn Service will be held at the Soldier’s Memorial in Bon Crescent from 6am.

Those attending are asked to assemble at the site by 5.50am with Stand To at 5.55am.

Guest speaker will be Denis Tucker on the topic of his time in Vietnam.

After this service a gunfire breakfast will be held at the Bonnie Doon Community Centre’s park. All are welcome with a gold coin donation appreciated.

Proceeds go to the Mansfield RSL.

 Tolmie:

A Dawn Service will commence at 6am on April 25 and end at 7am at the Tolmie Recreation Reserve, Old Tolmie Rd.

The gathering will include a barbecue breakfast with donations going to the Mansfield RSL.

 Merrijig:

A moving ceremony is expected on ANZAC Day as many gather at the Merrijig War and Service Memorial at approximately 7.30am, opposite the intersection of Mt Buller and Buttercup Roads.

As in previous years, horses and riders are expected to arrive at the memorial between 7am and 7.15am.

Prior to this they will gather at the Hunt Club Hotel at 6.30am and proceed at a respectful pace to reach the memorial.

A wreath or memorial rock may be placed at the Memorial during the service.

A gunfire breakfast will follow the service, donations appreciated.

LEST WE FORGET: Mansfield RSL members David Bock and Bill Romans at last year’s ANZAC Day service.

DAWN SERVICE: State member for Eildon Cindy McLeish with Mansfield RSL member Graeme Gobur on ANZAC Day 2023. PHOTOS: Lynn Elder

Shoegaze band Keaper brings tour to town

By TRINITY KNIGHT

SHOEGAZE band Keaper will complete the second last show of their ‘waking dream’ tour at the Mansfield Hotel on April 26.

Travelling across Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia the tour is promoting their new album which was released at the beginning of March.

Shoegaze is a subgenre of indie and alternative music containing ethereal dreamy vocals and swirling guitar effects.

The Melbourne based group made up of vocalist and rhythm guitarist Ameya Ajay, bassist Julia Derwas, drummer Sam Wallace and lead guitarist Austin Del Rio, started in 2020.

Sam, drummer and band manager, said they started writing the waking dream concept album in 2021 accompanied by a book.

“Over COVID we spent three weeks staying at Julia’s farmhouse writing songs and one of them called ‘alone’ is the main single from the album,” Sam said.

“Ameya our lyricist, was inspired after reading fantasy novels like Lord of The Rings.

“The book we wrote is a fantasy tale which tells the story of a girl called Elder who becomes an intrepid explorer travelling through her dreamworld.”

The twelve songs go across three chapters of the book, each representing a stage in the narrative.

“The narrative is built around the hero’s journey which is a story telling method that has twelve different steps,” Sam said.

Sam said Ameya is inspired by different maps and landscapes.

“As we get to travel around, she gets more ideas, so I think it has

been a really great part about touring,” he said.

“We’ve played around a hundred shows over the past three years and have completed several regional shows, however this will be our first time in Mansfield.

“A lot of the towns on the tour are on the coast and then we also get to come to places like Beechworth and Mansfield

which have lots of nice forestry.

“I think one of the goals when we started the band was to travel as much as we could and play shows in new towns, meeting locals, having a beer at the pub and exploring.”

Keaper’s Mansfield show will begin at 9pm on Friday April 26 at the Mansfield Hotel. Entry is free.

Check your smoke alarms

STATE fire authorities are calling for people to test their smoke alarms after concerning new data revealed that 14 people died in preventable house fires last year.

Discarded smoking materials, lighters and matches were the most frequent cause of the fires, resulting in five incidents and seven deaths.

There were 11 single fatality incidents and one incident that resulted in the deaths of three people.

When checking, installing, or replacing your smoke alarms, CFA and FRV recommend choosing smoke alarms powered by a 10-year lithium battery and installed in every bedroom, living area, hallway and garage.

Smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling at least 30cm from the wall or installed on the wall at least 30cm from the ceiling to avoid dead air space.

They should be interconnected, so that when any alarm activates, all smoke alarms will sound and tested monthly by pressing the test button waiting for the test alarm to sound.

Replaceable batteries in a smoke alarm need to be changed yearly.

Smoke alarms attached to mains power, should be replaced every ten years and to check your alarm, press ‘test’ and wait for the beeping sound, then each month continue to test, vacuum, and dust your alarm to remove any particles.

Second Murrindindi Jobs Expo a regional initiative

PREPARATIONS for Murrindindi Food and Wine Incorporated’s Murrindindi

Jobs Expo being held on May 6 is well underway.

This year’s event is from 11am to 5pm with a reduced program to allow more opportunities to hear from Q and A panelists and time to network.

The afternoon expo being held in Alexandra is a valuable opportunity for local job seekers, career changers and businesses to connect, network, and learn about the latest industry trends, innovations, and opportunities.

The expo is supported by the Victorian State Government and Murrindindi Shire Council.

“It is exciting to hold our second expo in Alexandra, as it’s about local business collaboration including networking and resource and knowledge sharing,” said Rob Mitchell, President of MFW Inc.

“It is for all businesses in our shire, and we encourage all businesses to see how they can be involved.”

The expo theme is jobs, connections, and pathways.

The Murrindindi Jobs

BAY COMMUNITIES

RALLY FOR LUKE

A FUNDRAISING event is being organised in Goughs Bay to support Luke and Tegan Johnson as they face the challenges of Luke’s terminal illness.

Luke was diagnosed with stage 4A bowel cancer after experiencing severe stomach pains in late April 2023.

Despite undergoing chemotherapy and surgery, his condition worsened, leaving him with an incurable diagnosis.

The couple are expecting their first child in late June 2024.

In response to this difficult situation, Luke’s father, Craig, who resides in Goughs Bay, along with friends and neighbours, including the Goughs Bay Boat Club, are hosting a fundraiser.

The aim is to raise funds for Luke’s ongoing medical expenses, including chemotherapy and oncology appointments.

Within just 48 hours of planning, local businesses and individuals from

Expo will provide a wealth of knowledge for young job seekers, career changers, and those wishing to gain employment.

Attendees can learn about essential interview skills and learn from start-ups, established businesses and innovators in a multitude of sectors.

By chatting with service providers and employers directly, jobseekers can also narrow their search and discover new career paths.

The expo will provide a platform for local businesses, employers, potential em-

ployees, service providers, and agencies to connect in a relaxed and informal setting.

Jobseekers will have the opportunity to meet potential employers, learn about open positions and gain valuable insights on how to improve their job search efforts.

There will be our popular panel of regional experts who will share their insights and answer questions.

There is also the opportunity to be involved in a mini workshop aimed at identifying challenges

for small businesses.

Open to businesses based in Murrindindi Shire, including local and state government agencies, health and aged care, manufacturing, food, realtors, agriculture, aquaculture, wine production, transport, retail, trades, and education providers, the expo offers both an in-person and online experience for maximum accessibility and engagement.

A variety of exhibitors will be present on-site, with businesses able to participate by having a stall at the exhibition or by attending in

person to listen and engage with panel experts.

The event welcomes all ages and businesses as well as regional suppliers.

Murrindindi Food and Wine Inc. will publish online job postings and invite any business to submit an employment listing before the expo.

Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity to find out about jobs and career information, connect, network and learn about the latest industry trends developments, and innovative business practices.

Goughs and Mountain Bay generously contributed donations for raffles and auctions, as well as organising food, beverages, live music, and activities for children.

Community members are encouraged to attend the event or donate to Luke’s GoFundMe page. The fundraiser will take place at 1pm on April 27, 2024, at 580 Piries-Goughs Bay Road.

Entry is $40 (free for kids under 16) and includes a spit roast lunch, two great bands playing, and a door prize. For queries contact admin@ goughsbayboatclub.com. au and visit https://www. gofundme.com/f/makelukes-colon-great-again to make a donation.

FUNDRAISER: A fundraising event is being organised in Goughs Bay to support Luke and Tegan Johnson as they face the challenges of Luke’s terminal illness.

Ag show winners off to group final

THE November Mansfield Show is the ideal place to pitch the skills and talents of our rural community and a chance to participate in statewide competitions run by VAS (Victorian Agricultural Shows) Ltd.

“Showing their commitment to our local show, prize-winning competitors will represent Mansfield at the Central & Upper Goulburn Group finals to be held on Sunday April 21 in Seymour,” said Mansfield A&P Society’s president Amanda Swaney.

This year Jess Andrews is the society’s junior ambassador entrant and Nicci Teigte is the rural ambassador representative; both are keen horsewomen.

“They will compete against other finalists from the north and central regions of Victoria,” said Ms Swaney.

“Jess and Nicci will be interviewed by a panel of judges on agricultural matters, and about their involvement in the Mansfield and other shows,” she said.

“Elsewhere at the group finals, the Mansfield prize winners will be presenting their cakes, needlework and photography for judging.

“The winners of these sections will then proceed to the Royal Melbourne Show competitions,” Ms Swaney said.

The finals also include group only qualifiers in other categories which are separate to the VAS competitions.

Judging gets underway this Sunday morning at Kings Park, Seymour.

PHOTO: GoFundMe

Jamieson aglow with Autumn festival

THE Jamieson Autumn Festival was hoping for blue skies and a beautiful Autumn day and the weather gods certainly delivered, with the crowds out in force enjoying the event after a four year hiatus.

Franzi Weiss from the organizing committee confirmed that the festival welcomed record crowd numbers, with visitors coming from near and far to make a full day of it.

“The weather was magic,” said Franzi.

“We couldn’t have wished for a better day.”

Jamieson’s main street –Perkins Street - was closed to through-traffic for the Saturday event, with stalls, stages, displays and demonstrations as well as community games and activities all adding to the atmosphere.

The Jamieson river also proved a huge drawcard on

BY EMMA OLIVER eoliver@ nemedia.com.au

the day with the main stage and most of the food vans in the vicinity.

The banks of the river were dotted with picnic blankets as visitors to the festival basked in the sunshine, dangled their feet in the water and enjoyed the great food and drink on offer, with a backdrop of good tunes delivered by local musicians.

“The success of the event is thanks to the many volunteers who worked tirelessly in the build-up and over the weekend to deliver the festival,” said Franzi.

“Over 50 volunteers contributed to the weekend from set-up, to pack down and all the stuff in between.”

A visible and helpful pres-

ence in red, festival volunteers worked alongside other volunteers on the day with members of the local CFA and the Jamieson and District Historical Society contributing to the event.

“The musicians all volunteered their time and talent, for which we are incredibly grateful,” she said.

Franzi said that the committee had received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the event.

“The community games also proved a huge success with the cow poo lotto drawing a cheer from the crowd when the cow finally delivered,” said Franzi.

“The CFA took on the caravan park in the hay bale race, with the CFA emerging victorious.”

Franzi said that the entire township came alive on the day with all businesses reporting a brisk trade, in

a fitting finale to the Easter school holidays.

“A huge thank to the Community Bank Mansfield and District along with the Mansfield Shire Council for their support,” Franzi said.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie congratulated the organisers and volunteers on making the festival such a successful event.

“This is a great example of how this community pulls together,” he said.

“There was something for everyone – market stalls, car clubs, lots of food, the Jamieson CFA selling sausages, an art show and much more.

“We took our grandchildren out there and we all had a great time.

“Everyone I saw had a smile on their face.

“All involved should be very proud of the event.

“I look forward to next year’s festival.”

REV THOSE ENGINES: The Delatite Car Club Show n’ Shine brought the chrome to Perkins Street.

PLAY SPACE: Community games and activities were the order of the day, with high participation across the board.

GO FOR GOLD: The gold nugget toss drew a line of contenders keen to try their luck.

HELPING HAND: Jayne Thackray and Kate Berg volunteered at the festival, with over 50 locals contributing to the success of the event.

OUT FOR A STROLL: There was a steady stream of foot traffic across the township taking part in all that the festival had to offer. PHOTOS by Jamie Buscombe of Jamie Kaye Photography

FACE PAINTING: Penny Butler and Edie Buscombe spent Saturday at the Jamieson Autumn Festival.

STREAM TIME: With the sun shining, the Jamieson River proved a drawcard at the Jamieson Autumn Festival.

ACROSS

4 What is a knightly or heroic champion known as (7)

8 Name a US seaport in western Washington (7)

9 What is a renewing of interest in a theory, etc, of the past (7)

10 What is the nickname of the Canberra NRL team (7)

11 Which protein hormone maintains the balance of glucose metabolism (7)

12 What is a returned soldier called (6)

14 Name a member of the clergy (6)

18 Which term describes a pioneer of any great moral reform (7)

21 Which person denies the existence of God (7)

22 Name the commanderin-chief of a navy (7)

23 Name a renowned breed of dog (7)

24 To draw tight or taut, is to do what (7)

1

official name of Iran (6)

5 What are strong affections for other persons (5)

6 To diminish the worth of something, is to do what (7)

7 Name a synthetic polyamide from which stockings are often produced (5)

13 What might we call a person employed

Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.

WHICH WORDS

Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.

Planned burns not exempt from federal environment law

Beware poisonous mushrooms sprouting

SAVE our Strathbogie Forest president Bertram Lobert expressed the group’s disappointment at the decision handed down by the Federal Court on Tuesday April 2, which will permit four planned burns in Strathbogie Forest to proceed.

The group believes these burns threaten one of the healthiest populations of the nationally endangered southern greater glider and will further degrade the outstanding values of the Strathbogie Forest.

“We are dismayed that despite all the scientific evidence presented in court about the

impacts of these planned burns on the southern greater glider and its habitat, the government has been given the green light to proceed,” Mr Lobert said.

“This case highlights the failings of the existing laws to help protect nationally threatened species and we urge the federal government to clarify and strengthen the law as part of its current review of environment law.”

The group was heartened however, by Justice Horan’s ruling that planned burns are not exempt from the requirements of federal environment laws.

“We take this as a significant win for the environ-

ment,” Mr Lobert said.

“It’s now clear that planned burns are subject to the requirements of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, contrary to the state’s claim.

“This decision now makes it clear that the state of Victoria and other jurisdictions have to meet a higher bar of environmental standard before they can burn,” Mr Lobert said.

“On the matter of the four planned burns at the centre of the case in the Strathbogie Forest, we are discussing options with our legal team and believe there may be grounds for appeal to stop the four burns.”

HEALTH authorities are warning about the dangers of poisonous mushrooms, including death cap mushrooms and yellow-staining mushrooms, which occur in Victoria during autumn as the weather becomes wetter and cooler.

Victoria’s acting chief health officer, Dr Evelyn Wong, said that anyone who collects and consumes wild mushrooms of unknown species is putting themselves at risk of potential poisoning and serious illness, and that consuming a death cap mushroom may result in death.

In an alert notice issued this week, Dr Wong said that unless you are an expert, do not pick and eat wild mushrooms in Victoria.

“Children should not touch wild mushrooms with their bare hands and animals should be kept away from them,” the advice no-

tice reads.

“Pets can develop a range of illnesses from eating wild mushrooms, including gastroenteritis-type syndrome to severe life-threatening disease and death.

“Dogs are more likely than cats to ingest mushrooms.

“Remove any mushrooms from your garden before pets have a chance to eat them...wear gloves and carefully place in a bag and dispose of them in a closed rubbish bin.”

Mushrooms purchased from a supermarket, greengrocer or other reputable source are safe to eat, the notice reads.

Dr Wong said there is no home test available to distinguish safe and edible mushrooms from poisonous mushrooms, and cooking, peeling or drying poisonous mushrooms does not remove or inactivate the poison.

BEWARE: The death cap mushroom.

INSET: NOT EDIBLE: The yellow-staining mushroom.

Death cap mushrooms

Deathcapmushrooms

Death cap mushrooms (Amanita phalloides) are extremely poisonous and consuming just one mushroom can kill an adult.

Symptoms of poisoning by death cap mushrooms can include violent stomach pains, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Even if initial symptoms subside serious liver damage may have occurred that may result in death.

These mushrooms grow under oak trees and the caps are 40-160 mm in diameter. The cap ranges in colour

from pale yellow-green to olive brown and the ridges on the underside of the cap are white.

The base of the stem has a membrane ‘cup’.

Yellow-staining mushrooms

The yellow-staining mushroom (Agaricus xanthodermus) is the cause of most poisonings due to ingestion of wild fungi in Victoria.

Consuming yellow-staining mushrooms causes nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhoea and vomiting.

The severity of symptoms varies with the amount eaten.

This mushroom looks very similar to regular purchased mushrooms or ‘cultivated mushrooms’ (Agaricus bisporus) and to edible wild mushrooms such as the field mushroom (Agaricus campestris).

In urban areas the yellowstaining mushroom is unfortunately much more common than edible mushrooms.

It can grow in large troops in lawns and gardens.

Emergency help

People should urgently attend an emergency department if they believe they’ve eaten a poisonous mushroom.

They should also take any

remaining mushrooms with them for identification.

In most cases, the sooner treatment can begin, the better the outcome...do not wait for symptoms to occur before seeking medical attention.

Contact the Victorian Poisons Information Centre immediately on 13 11 26 (24 hours a day, seven days a week, Australia wide).

Keep and photograph a sample of the mushroom that was consumed to share with the Victorian Poisons Information Centre for expert identification of the mushroom.

PLANNED BURNS OPPOSITION: Members of Save our Strathbogie Forest outside of federal court on April 2.

JUNE 22

Mansfield Lantern Festival

April

 MARCH 22 - APRIL 21: Bald Archy exhibition, 101 High Street, Thursday to Sunday $8/$6 entry.

 APRIL 18: Mansfield Lets Talk mental health group invites community members to join them for a free drop in coffee and chat at the Delatite Hotel from 10am to 12pm.

 APRIL 20: The making of an outlaw, Ned Kelly. Mansfield Golf Club, 6pm, $70 per person including dinner. Contact the Mansfield Historical Society for ticketing information.

 APRIL 20: Outdoor Provedore, producers market, 8.30am to 12.30pm on the High Street median strip, opposite the CWA (third Saturday of every month).

 APRIL 26: Lake High - Great Victorian walk for autism, Great Victorian Rail Trail, fundraiser for Mansfield Autism Statewide Services, 15km and 30km.

SECOND SUNDAY

May

 MAY 4: The mysteries and misconceptions of mistletoe, 10am12.30pm, Mansfield Steiner School. Up2Us Landcare - 5779 1593.

 MAY 12: Mansfield Marathon, Great Victorian Rail Trail. email mansfieldathleticsclub@gmail.com or call Liam Delany on 0425 711 412.

 MAY 16: Outdoor Provedore, producers market, 8.30am to 12.30pm on the High Street median strip, opposite the CWA (third Saturday of every month).

 MAY 25/MAY 26: Mushroom encounters with Alison Pouliot, 11am-3pm, Carters Mill Picnic Area. $25 per head, Up2Us Landcare - https://trybooking.com/CPSIS

June

 JUNE 22: Mansfield Lantern Festival, Erril Street, 4pm to 9pm.

 JUNE 26: Stand for Council, community and candidate information session at the Mansfield Shire Council Chambers, 6pm.

Regular Events:

 CWA Monthly meetings: 3rd Sunday afternoon, 2pm each month.

 CWA Craft Days: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 10am, 2nd Thursday 6pm and 4th Wednesday at 6pm, each month.

 CWA Op shop open: most days from 10am.

 Family History Group at Mansfield Library. 3pm every 4th Thursday of the month.

 Grief and bereavement support group meets on the first Thursday of the month at Bob’s Shed, 82A Malcolm Street. All are welcome on a regular or casual basis and morning tea is provided. Ring 5775 3161 for more information.

 High Country Poets meet at the Mansfield Library on the 3rd Friday of the month at 1:30 pm. Members of the public all welcome to come and listen / or share their poetic ramblings.

 Justice of the Peace Services – Every Thursday, Mansfield Police Station. 10am to 1pm for witnessing and signing of documents.

 Lima South Old Time Dance: At Lima South Hall the second Sunday of each month between 1pm and 5pm. Entry $10. Music provided by The Ramblers. Please bring a plate of afternoon tea to share. All welcome. Contact: 0425868277.

 Mansfield Croquet Club – Monday and Wednesday mornings from 9am till 12 noon, Lord‘s Reserve, Cnr Victoria and Apollo Streets. Playing equipment available, $2 per session.

 Monday Mingle – Every Monday – organised by the Bonnie Doon Community Centre – chat and make new friends – new theme each week. BYO ideas for activities – all ages and abilities

 Mansfield support group for carers and people with special needs – morning coffee, third Tuesday of the month, 9.30am at Bob’s Shed, Rosehaven 82A Malcolm St Mansfield. Ph 0409 751 593.

 Mansfield Uniting Church - Highett Street Sunday services, 9.30am. All welcome. Ph 0417 103 813

 Men‘s Probus meetings are held every 2nd Wednesday for monthly meetings, and then activities/outings are held on the last Wednesday of each month – or as organised.

 Ladies Probus meets every second Monday of each month at Delatite Hotel for meetings and 4th Monday for social or as organised.

 Outdoor Provedore, producers market, 8.30am to 12.30pm on the High Street median strip, opposite the CWA (third Saturday of every month).

 Preschool story time at Mansfield Library. Stories, songs and craft. Every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month 10.30am. Ph 5775 8621

 Rotary meet the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at the Delatite Hotel. 6.30 for a 7pm start.

 Rural Australians for Refugees (RAR) meet every fourth Monday of the month at 6pm at the Uniting Church Hall.

 Scrabble Club for all levels meets at 10am every Wednesday at Mansfield Library. Ph 5775 8621

 St John’s Anglican Church - meditation every Friday at 12 noon for a quiet half hour to restore your peace. Ph Christine 0412 825 324

 Tolmie Uniting Church - Tolmie Sportsground, 3rd Sunday of the month. Service at 2pm. All welcome.

 U3A meetings are held on 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month at 10am at the Library.

property of the week

IDYLLIC COUNTRYSIDE RETREAT : SECOND CHANCE OPPORTUNITY

Previously sold, but now back on the market due to the inability of the previous purchasers to settle - their loss is now your gain. Don’t miss out on this second chance to make this property yours!

The property boasts a beautiful countryside setting with lush greenery, sprawling views and an elegantly designed homestead. Offering endless possibilities for farming, grazing, plus a current planning permit in place for a five bedroom luxury accommodation homestead plus another two bedroom guest cottage. Or just kick back under the veranda and enjoy the quieter life with unsurpassed mountain views.

12ft high ceilings, big windows and seamless flow with an open-plan layout. Living room with cosy ambiance, double French doors and exposed beams. Keep comfortable yearround with a Euro fireplace and R/C split system.

Kitchen boasts a 900mm Smeg cooktop and oven for

culinary enthusiasts. 4 generously sized bedrooms with soaring ceilings, 1 with open fireplace. Spacious tiled laundry/mudroom with second shower, toilet and storage. Separate studio versatile space suitable for a gym, office, or teenage retreat.

Water tanks provide over 100,000 litres of drinking water. Hay shed, machinery shed 19m x 15m (approx.) concrete floor and power. 2 horse stables plus chicken coop ensures a steady supply of farm-fresh eggs. Single stand shearing shed with holding pens plus timber cattle yards. Cottage gardens with a comprehensive watering system and feature Palm Tree Bore, 4 dams, 10 paddocks all with shelters, water troughs fed by dam or bore. Soil improvement practices with minimal chemical usage for sustainable agriculture

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful weekend retreat, investment or a place to call home, this property has it all.

4 bed | 2 bath | 10 car

Agent Amanda Nieuwenhuizen

0407 770 548 / 5775 1444

amanda.n@nutrien.com.au

Address 146 Soliders Road, Barwite VIC

Land size 33 acres

For Sale

$1,695,000

“My products use natural materials like hemp, cotton, silk, wool, leather, fur, beeswax, gum turpentine and linseed oil and avoid plastics, toxic chemicals, harmful dyes, and industrial processes,” said Leigh. “I’m revisiting old materials and methods and using them in new ways to create long-lasting high-quality products.

THINGS TO DO:

PAVING THE WAY: Bendigo-based Jackie Yong is Soilz Alive a former hairdresser and salon owner, who pivoted her career to develop a large-scale composting business in Stanhope. Merging her two interests, Jackie uses hair offcuts from sustainable salons, transforming this beauty byproduct into a nutrient dense compost for people’s gardens.

Off-Grid Living Festival a huge success

OVERCAST skies on

Saturday April 6 failed to dampen enthusiasm with a 5000-strong crowd attending the first day of the Off-Grid Living Festival in its new Chiltern location.

And with the sun shining on the Sunday - and the weather in the balmy mid to high 20s – organisers once again welcomed similar numbers through the gate, with many return visitors to the two-day event.

The festival wasn’t just a significant drawcard for locals and those across the North East, a steady stream of vehicles were coming from further afield, with trains to the township also full with attendees.

Other visitors came from as far away as Western Australia and the Northern Territory, whilst others made the pilgrimage across the border with guests from Griffith in New South Wales and Canberra making a weekend of it.

Festival director Kate Nottingham confirmed that the festival always draws interest from across the country.

“It has become the largest festival of its kind in

BY EMMA OLIVER eoliver@ nemedia.com.au

Australia,” she said.

“There is nothing as diverse as Off-Grid, with its array of products, services, skills and knowledge-sharing in areas of sustainable, alternative, off-the-grid and eco-living.

“We cover the whole gamut from electric vehicles and latest technology to traditional skills and homesteading.

“The emphasis of the festival is on people walking away with skills and knowledge to become self-sufficient and lower their carbon footprint that they can then employ in their day-to-day lives and within their community.

“This is about change and how to enact that change, and then hopefully spread the word.”

This year is the festival’s sixth, having only missed one year due to COVID lockdowns.

“The inaugural event was a one-day festival,” said Kate. “We planned for 2000 guests and got 4000.

“The demand was there, and we realised early on that we needed to go up to two days to accommodate that interest, which we did the following year.”

The second festival had the market on the first day with workshops a focus of the second.

“There was a huge uptake for the workshops which proved very popular.

“We then decided to mix it all in together, add talk stages and make it interactive.”

Every year organisers have looked to improve on the event, allowing the festival to grow organically guided by community feedback and responses.

“It’s also got bigger each year, but we’ve arrived at the point where it’s big enough.

“The emphasis going forward is now on just making it the very best festival it can be.

“We are now in the perfect location to deliver our vision and have some amazing people on board with incredible ideas on how to develop the festival.”

Wangaratta-based Brent Ibom from My Slice of Life conducted numerous workshops over the weekend

festival on butchering and small goods making.

“Brent had sell-out sessions with about 40 people in each workshop, and when he was going over the bookings the vast majority came from further afield,” Kate said.

“It just emphasises that people are happy to travel to the event and are keen to get involved, and with increasing demand for workshops on the subject of butchering and things like sausage and salami making Brent is keen to expand what’s on offer in 2025.

“Alongside the popular homesteading tent, he has proposed a standalone butchering and ethical hunting tent which is already generating interest and we’re keen to make it a part of Off-Grid.”

The festival registered strong attendance at all the talks and workshops (both free and paid), with vendor talks and demonstrations at individual stalls also drawing a crowd.

Stanley-based Charlie Showers from Black Barn farm drew a particularly large crowd for his free demonstration on grafting fruit trees.

Food vendors across the site appeared to be doing a roaring trade, and with all cups and plates reusable and washed onsite to reduce waste, the washing station a hive of activity as the festival committed to practice what it preached.

“The dishwashing station was actually a highlight for some people,” said Kate with a laugh.

“In the end, we generated only four red bins of non-recyclable rubbish after 10,000 people went through over the two days.

“We did have cardboard and of course food waste which went into the green bins and this is now going to be composted.

“It was a great achievement all round.”

Kate also commended the Indigo Shire for its ongoing support of the festival with mayor Sophie Price opening the festival on the Saturday.

“The Chiltern Tourism Group were also invaluable, organising the shuttle bus ferrying people in and out of the historical township, running the service until 11pm at night on the Saturday so

that campers onsite could visit Chiltern’s hospitality venues,” she said.

“They really embraced the opportunity to showcase their beautiful town and region.”

Kate said that a significant part of the smooth running of the event was thanks to volunteers from the Chiltern SES, who spent the entire weekend supervising parking and facilitating the campground.

“We had over 250 campers onsite, plus all the exhibitors, across two separate campgrounds,” said Kate.

“The SES oversaw the whole operation seamlessly with such a friendly and accommodating attitude, it was just a great welcome to the festival.”

Although exhausted after delivering a full weekend of workshops, talks and entertainment and the logistical challenge of accommodating 300 stalls and assorted stages across multiple arenas, Kate is riding high on the success of the event.

“I’m already fielding calls from people who want to know next year’s dates and log it in the calendar,” she said.

HEALTHY PLANTS: Craig Hulbert from Alpine Perennials was doing a brisk trade at the festival, with the reasonably-priced plants from his Harrietville nursery proving popular.

THE GOOD DROP: Hank and Carrie Thierry from Mansfield’s Swiftcrest Distillery were the only alcohol proprietors allowed onsite, thanks to their unique status as one of the world’s only completely off-grid and environmentally friendly distilleries.

Over 300 stalls and numerous tents, stages and hubs spaced out across the Chiltern race course, ensured the 5000 strong crowd were kept entertained.

NO FEAR: Kenzie Poole from Snakes Alive is seen cuddling a croc.

OLD SKILLS: Bill Tracy from Echuca with Beau, draught horse ploughing in the arena.

ARTISAN CHEESE: Moussa Taouck from Little Cedar Farmhouse Goat Cheese, is pictured with one of his Saanen goats. Moussa and wife Victoire produce handcrafted artisan goats cheese at their 70 acre Winton farm.

QUALITY GUARANTEED: Leigh Blackall, designer and maker of Peak Oil Company products, creates outdoor clothing and equipment in Eldorado.

SPLASH OF COLOUR: The event was child friendly with numerous spaces and activities to keep the younger generation engaged.

Tales from autumn autumn festival success success

THE

It was a balmy sunny Autumn day and the crowds thronged the display areas.

There were musicians and singers performing at four venues, St John the Apostle Church the ‘Winded’ group played and a Mansfield favourite bush poet Val Kirley recited poetry to a delighted audience.

There were three stages for performers, one at the Jamieson River, one in town at Brown Street and Perkins Street, and at the Jamieson Post Office, each stage supported visiting and local artists who performed throughout the day.

A spectacular car display was a great hit, as the cars were shown in mint condition along Perkins Street.

There were some very obliging car owners, showing their prizewinning cars and chatting about their histories.

The various stalls were well attended: the Jamieson Primary school held a coin throwing competition where a coin thrown lands on a prize in a trailer, the successful coin tosser takes the prize.

There were seats near all of the

entertainment venues and many stalls selling take away treats.

The local Jamieson winery Mt Terrible Wines enjoyed a very busy trading and information day, with a stall showcasing their prize wines. The Jamieson CFA show cased their firefighting, with small uniforms for children to dress in and sit in the Fire Tanker, as well as showing the fire station and firefighting equipment to very interested home owners and visitors.

The food vendors were kept busy with long queues forming and the variety of take away food available, was outstanding.

The Jamieson Museum was a very popular venue, with volunteers showing the exhibition to a very large number of visitors.

Entry was a gold coin donation and the Jamieson and District Historical Society were the recipients of these generous attendees.

Other activities were the hilarious Cow Poo Lotto, where a number is purchased and then placed on the ground in the Old Police Paddock, when all numbers were sold, the numbers were placed on a grid and

two cows were led into the paddock.

The obliging bovine deposited on number 200 purchased for a young 10-year-old who was presented with his winnings.

The Gold Nugget Throw is always a very popular event, with hundreds of throwers trying for the winning distance.

There were a number of categories so everyone had a chance. It was won by a Mansfield visitor, the new champ.

The final event was the traditional Hay Bale Race in the paddock beside the Catholic Church, two teams challenged, the Jamieson CFA team and the Jamieson Caravan Park team.

The race is to have one team member on the round Hay Bale and the team pushes the Bale to the end of the track.

The difficulty is for the runner, they must stay on top of the Bale.

If they fall another team member replaces the vacant runner, until the wining team crosses the winning line to the tumultuous cheering of their supporters.

This year the Jamieson CFA team were the winners.

Congratulations.

FREDDIE Leong held a photographic art show in the Memorial

Hall with many visitors, viewing his art.

Franzi Weiss and her amazing team of volunteers, achieved the dream of holding the Jamieson Autumn Festival.

Congratulations.

THE local businesses were well staffed to meet the requirements of the local clientele and the visitors.

A day with the Jamieson Café, the General Store, the Courthouse Hotel and Jamieson Brewery with a stall near the Jamieson River stage.

Everyone was catered for; an amazing result for a small town with a big heart.

SUNDAY morning the Significant Tree Guided walk meeting, was held in the Jamieson Memorial Hall with members of the group in attendance, followed by a tree planting in Perkins Street.

THE volunteers worked tirelessly following the Festival enjoying a break and some food and cheer, all got their breath back and embarked on unpacking and storing stages, marquees, chairs.

Sunday morning the town was restored to order, with the beautiful Autumn leaves and outstanding display of autumn trees in Jamieson.

Advance care planning event a success

OVER 50 attendees engaged in insightful discussions at Rosehaven’s Advance Care Planning event, hosted on March 20, 2024, at The Delatite Hotel.

The panel included Dr. Andrew Wettenhall, Andrew Howie from McCormacks Funeral, Helen Callanan, Jon Gifford, and Libby Moloney.

Each panellist brought unique insights and experiences to the table, enriching the discussions throughout the event.

Attendees raised questions about will security, burial regulations, and emerging practices like water cremation.

Rosehaven’s manager, Bianca Hurle, quoted statistics from Advance Care Planning Australia:

Over 70 per cent of Australians want to die at home, but only 14 per cent do

75 per cent of people have not discussed end of life with their families

45 per cent of Australians die without having a will in place

92 per cent of deaths are expected, yet despite the knowledge of what’s coming, only 28 per cent have actually had this important conversation with loved ones

The average number of doctors you see in the last 6 months of life is 23

The event’s success was attributed to active participation, and Rosehaven extended thanks to attendees, The Delatite Hotel for the venue, and MACE for sponsoring.

Rosehaven announced another event on Dying to Know day, August 8, to give people an opportunity to discuss and ask questions around end of life care and services available.

HUNGRY HOARDES: All the food vendors and stalls did a brisk trade on the day. PHOTO: Jamie Buscombe of Jamie Kaye Photography.

PHOTO: Supplied

idea of Franzi Weiss came to fruition last Saturday, April 13th. Jamieson welcomed at last count an estimated 2000 visitors to the 2024 Jamieson Autumn Festival.

Information

Get your names in the RADIO MANSFIELD and MANSFIELD COURIER birthday book.

Win Bertalli’s birthday goodies on Radio Mansfield 99.7 FM’s “Anything Goes” Birthday Wheel Thursdays from 2-4pm

This week’s winner is:

EVAN LOWING

To enter call Radio Mansfield on 5775 2333

MANSFIELD ADULT COMMUNITY EDUCATION CALLS FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR BOARD POSITIONS

Mansfield Adult Community Education (MACE) is a community - owned and managed incorporated association encompassing a Learn Local Education provider; a Neighbourhood House, a Services Australia Agent, and an Early Childhood Education and Care Centre. Mace also offers nationally recognised, accredited courses to the local community through partnerships with other education providers.

MACE is currently seeking suitably qualified and experienced candidates for appointment to its Board of Management.

Potential candidates with the following skills or expertise are required to complement the existing Board:

FOR GENUINE SALE, the chance to purchase the complete package when it comes to heading off on the trip of a lifetime! The package includes a 2010 Toyota GX V8 trayback ute with extended cabin and steel and canvas canopy over rear tray, the ute has done a genuine 51,200kms, it has been fitted out with over $30,000 in extras, reg (1MP2DP). The caravan is a 2016 Jayco Silverline Outback, 21’6” in length, the Silverline was the top of the range in that model, it is fitted with all of the quality appliances you would expect in a van of this quality, it is also fitted with a queen size electric slide out bed, it has travelled approx 6000kms, all on bitumen surfaces, the van comes with over $10,000 worth of extras, it is a must see to believe what is included in this package. Would possibly sell the ute and van seperately, $150,000 negotiable, must sell. Ph 0407 218 028.

HOLDEN Vy Commordore 2003, car is mechanically A1 serviced and maintained regularly, very clean inside and out, no

IZUZU D-Max LSU 2021, auto, canopy, snorkel, bullbar, UHF, electric brakes, Anderson plug, black duck seat covers, full slide out floor, 80,000km, (BNE007), $55,990. Ph 0458 265 318.

expected to attend meetings and participate in relevant sub-committee meetings.

MACE promotes and encourages diversity and inclusion in the workplace and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

CAR ADVERTISERS

Private vendors of motor cars advertised for sale must include in their advertisement

PHOTOGRAPHS

FOUND ADVERTISEMENTS

All found advertisements are

PERSONAL ADVERTISERS ADDITIONS

INTERNET

Applications will be received up to COB Friday, April 26, 2024.

EMPLOYMENT

Local commercial and residential builders seeking carpenters, apprentices and/or labourers to join a highly motivated and dedicated team.

Permanent positions available for the right personnel.

Please call or email Lachie Cronin 0409 796 126, croninconstruction1@bigpond.com

HARVEY (nee O’Leary), Judith Lorraine “Jude”. 7/10/1946 - 11/4/2024

Loving mother of Karen, Brian and Danielle.

Beloved grandmother of Melinda, Alex, Darcy-Rose, Jemma and Hayden.

Resting peacefully. Private Cremation.

HARVEY (nee O'Leary), Judith Lorraine.

Beloved mother of Karen and Andrew.

Treasured Grams to Melinda and Alex Forever in our hearts.

Resting peacefully.

Personal Notices

may be placed before 12 noon Monday prior to printing

HARVEY, Judith.

To Mum, We think about you always, We talk about you still. You have never been forgotten, And you never will.

We hold you close within our hearts, And there you will remain,

To walk and guide us through our lives, Until we meet again.

Mansfield’s Marketplace

KIRKHAM, Paula Christine. 15/2/1946 - 10/4/2024

Passed away peacefully at Bindaree Nursing Home, Mansfield. Aged 78 years. Loved daughter of Jock and Norma Kirkham (both dec).

Much loved sister of John and Note, David and Judy.

ROGERS, Frederick William. 16/9/1951 – 11/4/2024

My darling man and husband has passed. Celebration of his life will be advised.

In his remembrance, please donate to Rosehaven.

~ Love from Shawn, Danielle and grandchildren Darcy, Jemma and Hayden, and 2 great-grandchildren

Aston and Ebony.

Phone: 03 5723 0101

1

HARVEY (nee O’Leary), Judith Lorraine “Arthur”.

Beloved mother of Brian.

My Mum, my hero.

Sadly passed away on April 11, 2024. The best Mum that a son could have ever hoped for.

Your kindness will always be remembered.

A big thankyou to all the staff, particularly the nurses at the Mansfield Hospital and Bindaree for the loving care. Resting peacefully.

Treasured Auntie Paula to Penny and Kenny, Katie and Rodney and Great Auntie Paula to Chelsea and Bella; and Charli. Forever your “Darlings”.

As per Paula’s wishes no funeral service to be held.

A memorial service will be held at a later date, details to be advised.

N.J. TODD

Member AFDA

MANSFIELD 1800 352 425

BENALLA (03) 5762 2461

~ Kristina.

HARVEY

An invitation to afternoon tea for Jude’s last la-di-da is extended to family and friends to share memories at the Mansfield Bowls Club on Monday, April 22, 2024 commencing at 2pm.

By NICK DUNN

Round 1 Mansfield Eagles Blue

10.8.68 def Mansfield Eagles

Yellow 4.4.28

WE WERE greeted by a day of spectacular weather for our round one hit out against Mansfield Yellow at Main Oval on Sunday.

It is always a really weird feeling going up against your best mates, and credit to all the guys from both teams for playing the game in such great spirits.

But particularly when it’s round one, and after a long lay off and a solid pre season you really want to put into practice everything you’ve trained for and come out of the gates hard, but against our mates it’s a bitter sweet feeling. But come out of the gates they did.

And managed to control the game from the start through a combination of solid defence, hard attack on the ball, and creativity in the forward line.

Our skipper this year, Archie Dunn, was phenomenal in his roles through the ruck and across centre half back

and centre half forward.

His penetrating left foot was a real asset throughout the day, and his ability to stand up and wrestle the momentum back in our favour was beautiful to watch.

Our vice captains this year, Taj Kynnersley and Gus Robinson, were incredible.

Gussy attacked the ball and the contest with the same kind of ferocity were have become accustomed to, and picked up where he left off from last year.

Taj played the best game of footy I’ve seen him play.

The way he presented and attacked the contest at cen-

classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Phone: 03 5723 0101

MATCH RESULTS

Eagles Blue get the win over Yellow

tre half forward and then moving onto the ball. The impact he had in there was superb, and its so good to see him play with so much confidence.

Our back line was really solid all day, lead by Noah Langlands and Phoebe Guppy. Their composure and team work to drag the ball out of defence got better and better as the day wore on.

Reeve Purday, in his first run in the 14s was sensational and read the play beautifully, picking off the oppositions forward half entries time and time again.

Our mids, with Lenny

Gardner, Zander Haslau and Harry Theodosi rotating through the wings and the centre owned the middle of the ground. While Jay Kynnersley and Billy Turner were so hard at the footy and so creative with the ball in their hands, both through the middle and up forward.

Bodhi Killeen was at his damaging best up forward, proving a real handful for the opposition defence, and when moved onto the ball gave us a real spark in the middle.

Captains Choice award, sponsored by Mansfield Hunting and Fishing went

to Reeve Purday, while the coaches award sponsored by Ben Purday Bricklaying, went to Harry Theodosi.

We couldn’t be prouder of the efforts of both teams.

To be able to turn out two teams of that quality is a testament to the hard work put in by Mansfield Junior Footy Club, in particular Mick Bretherton our president.

Best: Archie Dunn, Taj Kynnersley, Jay Kynnersley, Lenny Gardner, Reeve Purday, Gus Robinson

Goals: Killeen 3, T Kynnersley 2, Gardner, Robinson, J Kynnersley, Turner, Haslau

U14s Yellow show strong signs in opener

FOOTBALL - U14S MANSFIELD

EAGLES YELLOW

By FRASER STEVENSON

IT WAS a hot day to start the season at Mansfield recreation reserve against the other Mansfield 14s Blue side.

The first quarter was a tough start with the Blues dominating early, our big six did a great job trying to stem the flow, led by VC Fe-

lix Smith, Heath Shevlin and Noah Desantis.

Cooper Martin and Mac Watson also chimed in with some impressive intercepting marking.

The second quarter saw the yellow team start to win their share of the footy out of the middle led by Will Benton and our new Captain Toby Gerrans and the running machine Jack Clydesdale.

Our forwards started to present and we finally hit the scoreboard through some great play with Mitch Rossettia marking and goaling truly.

The third quarter was our highlight, out-scoring the opposition through some great leadership and running by Zach Hotton and our mids Martin, Watson and Clydesdale starting to get on top.

Wingers Lach Roberts

and Levi Stevenson helped to link up some dangerous forward 50 entries.

Our new VC Mitch “Tiprat” Storer was everywhere up forward hitting the scoreboard and looking very dangerous for the opposition.

Zain Daikin didn’t take a back step all day, his second and third efforts were one for the highlight reel during the week, and Jake West was playing a tough brand of footy.

Yellow were keen to finish off the game on a high and that they did with Issac Crowe making a welcomed return to footy playing in multiple positions and new kid on the block Tait Goodes looking lively.

Mosquito fleet Hudson George, Tommy D and Max O’Brien proving a handful for the opposition to match up on.

The Eagles Blue were too strong in the end, but the Ea-

gles Yellow should hold their heads up a high with how they finished off the game with team effort and pressure.

Awards – Zac Hotton and Cooper Martin

We look forward to facing Benalla at home again this Sunday.

Thanks to all the umpires and volunteers for making the day a success.

Go Eagles

FOOTBALL UNDER 14S EAGLES BLUE

By ALLISON WILSON

A MASSIVE well done to our U14 girls for their stellar performance at the champs in Mildura over the weekend.

Playing six solid games over Saturday and Sunday up against Benalla, Phillip Island and Morwell, Wonthaggi , Warracknabeal landed them finishing fifth on the ladder which sent them into the quarter finals against Phillip Island.

The girls took control of the game taking a 17 point win and then onto a semi

final against Wangaratta which was anyone’s game from start to finish sadly going down by six points.

The girls gave it 100 per cent energy, effort, teamwork and smiles. Whatever their task was on that count they went above and beyond what was asked of them.

Coach Adam and assistant Craig could not have asked for anything more from the girls all weekend.

A huge thank you to the parents for all your support and scoring and travelling over the weekend.

MATCH RESULTS

Eagles U17s come back to beat Tigers

By ANGELA DESMOND U17s Boys Football

THE Tigers came out firing with two quick goals in the first 10 minutes before adding another two behinds, before our boys kicked three behinds and James Benton put us on the board with a goal.

The boys worked hard in the back line with Cruz Purday bursting out of defence numerous times to send it back into the mid field.

However they could only manage one goal.

Second quarter saw the

boys get their hands on it more and head down into our 50m area with Noah Pigdon popping up and kicking a goal.

The boys were working hard in and around the football with Eddie Morphett combining with Astin Browning bringing it out of the pack to Ethan Pigdon, Harry Craddock and Charlie Dobson.

Hitting targets was a problem however they kept working hard.

Unfortunately they could manage only one goal and three behinds to the Tigers who were letting us off the

hook with their inaccurate kicking of three behinds and only two goals.

Half time saw wise words from the coach and encouragement that we were not out of it; they went back on and started to find some wonderful pages of play.

Jaxon McCormack and Sam Kain both took turns working hard in the ruck, Cruz and Dobbo tackled hard, ran hard and kept bringing it back into the mid field.

Eddie and Astin worked all around the ground pushing it forward and Jame Benton dominated across centre

half forward, and they were rewarded with James Benton and Judd Turner both kicking goals in the quarter and keeping Tigers to one goal.

The last quarter was going to be tight but the boys were up and about, and controlling the footy better.

The Tiges kept coming though and they weren’t going away easily, but our boys worked hard, playing tough footy and working well in the pack.

Eddie did a nice little hand ball to Max Payne to Hayden Desmond and it was out into our forward line.

However it went back just

BEST: BENALLA RED: Noah Hogan, Thomas Mount, Harrison Skelton, Private player, Harry Bowen, Hailey Ziebell. IMPERIALS: Isaac Robinson, Kade Ely, Samuel K Savage, Wally Startin, Lenny Campbell, Oskar

GOALS: BENALLA RED: Thomas Mount 3, Xavier De Fazio 1, Cash Nolen 1, Harrison Skelton 1. IMPERIALS: Jack Ambrose 1, Zeke Hogan 1.

BEST: KANGAROOS: Oscar Edwards, Henry Ackerly, Charlie Kelly, Urban Holt, George Everard, Maddox Coleman. CENTRALS: Archie Knobel, Beau Johns, Liam Bennett, Milla Wallace, Jesse Walkerden, Nicholas Jones. GOALS: KANGAROOS and CENTRALS: no goal scorers added. Junior Magpies 2.4.16 College 18.13.121

BEST: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Jimi Pell, Will James, Jacob Nesbitt, Jack

Vincent, Alexander Scholes. GOALS: JUNIOR MAGPIES: Jimi Pell 1, Alexander Scholes 1.COLLEGE: No players allocated to line-up.

Myrtleford 3.1 4.5 6.6 6.9.45

Bright 3.1 4.3 8.8 13.13.91

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: Max McMahon, Sam Lupo, Hudson Durling, Jacob McAuliffe, Matthew Morgan, Taylor McPherson. BRIGHT: Oscar Lewis, Harry West, Cash Garratt, Darcy Andersen, Joe Brewster, Kody Watkins.

GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: Hudson Durling 2, Sam Lupo 2, Lucas McKeone 1, Blake Parolin 1. BRIGHT: Darcy Andersen 3, Brock Buckland 3, Alex Tanaskovic 3, Cash Garratt 2, Harris Bruneau 1, Kaegan Hall-Bidois 1.

BEST: MANSFIELD BLUE: Archie Dunn, Taj Kynnersley, Jay Kynnersley, Lenny Gardner, Reeve Purday, Gus Robinson. MANSFIELD YELLOW: Zac

as quick into their forward line.

Cruz Purday and the backline crew worked hard bringing it back down into the midfield.

James Benton found himself with the ball at the 50m line and unselfishly kicked to Hayden who kicked accurately to find a much needed goal, and later in the quarter he managed another.

The Tiges found another goal and we were back to desperately needing another goal and it was heading back down into their area but up popped Noah Whittle who took a mark to put a stop to

that ball sneaking into their forward line.

He found his target in Ethan Pigdon who hand balled it off to the mid field and it was heading back down our end.

Astin Browning found himself with the ball, space and time to line the sticks up and slotting it through nicely to make sure we kicked the sealer.

Well done boys you came from behind to win and worked as a team.

Mansfield 8.11.59 def Tigers 8.9.57

Awards: Corcoran & Parker - Cruz Purday, Reece Plumbing – Jimmy Benton.

STELLAR PERFORMANCE: The u14s basketball team gave it their all last weekend at the state championships unfortunately falling short of a win by six points to Wangaratta. PHOTO: Supplied

WDJFL

NETBALL REVIEWS

Bomberettes clean sweep against Moyhu

13.

A GRADE

By ERIN BROND

Bonnie Doon 57 defeated Moyhu 31

Best on Court: Mia Tanner sponsored by Bowser Bean Coaches Award: Erin Brond sponsored by Foodworks

AFTER a week off after our Good Friday win, the girls were keen to get back on court.

Our instructions before the game were to play our game, as Moyhu is a side to never underestimate.

They were hungry for a win, we were hungrier.

Portia Keatch and Amy Starzer shot with a high accuracy while the Moyhu defenders tried everything to stop them.

Steph Ward joined the A Grade side after also playing in B Grade.

Stoofie played the WA position as if she was born into it.

Leading from the front, captain Mia Tanner put in a BOC performance through the midcourt.

She was always an option when transitioning the ball out of defence and fed the ball to the goalers with confidence and precision.

Another BOC performance came from Casey Thompson as she hassled the goalers, getting their re-

bounds when her hand over pressure was too much for them.

When moved into centre, she always gave the right pass to the attackers, perfect to the millimetre.

Cara Moody played her first game in the red and black and had an instant impact. Her hands over rattled the Moyhu goalers, completely blocking their view of the goal, resulting in misses and critical rebounds we were able to convert into goals.

Erin Brond worked hard one on one all game to slow down a dominant WA.

Anna Manning took some flying intercepts, had many strong rebounds, and kept the positivity up all game.

Her talk from one end of the court was heard up the other.

The final siren went with Doon emerging 26 goal victors.

This week we play Greta at home with all seven games bound to be an entertaining watch so make sure you head out to Bonnie Doon this Saturday.

B GRADE

By CHRISSY BLUNT

Bonnie Doon 58 defeated Moyhu 25

Best on court: Chrissy Blunt sponsored by Moody Racing Coaches Award: Jess Harris sponsored by Bonnie Doon Hotel

THE first quarter Bonnie Doon knew the match wasn’t going to be the easy, there was not only heat from the weather but there was also some heat coming from the Moyhu players.

There were going to be no easy goals and Bonnie Doon players needed to adjust and quickly, thankfully they did with defenders Cass McCormack and Cara Moody winning ball and with quick transition through the midcourt to our Goalers Steph Ward and Chrissy Blunt converted these into a top scoring quarter for the match.

The second and third quarters saw goals harder to come, however Jess Harris and Shannon Cameron were consistent in bringing the ball through the mid-court to keep the scoreboard ticking along in our favour.

Tara Murray had some perfectly timed leads onto the goal circle which again allowed the goalers to find post.

Whilst the scoreboard gap was high before the last quarter it didn’t see any less effort from any players, particularly Alicia Foster whose speed through the midcourt was just what we needed.

Special shout out to Michelle Tanner for stepping into GS in the third quarter, also awesome job from Cara Moody, Steph Ward and Cass McCormack for putting in some big km’s to make it to the match this week, much appreciated girls.

B RESERVE

By AMY CLAPHAM

Bonnie Doon 52 defeated Moyhu 30

Best on court: Cass Turner sponsored by Alpine at Home Coaches Award: Ash Greaves sponsored by Bonnie Doon Hotel

Players Player: Chrissy Blunt sponsored by Anvil

DING ding round three, it was the first game of the season for the B res girls, with some fresh new exciting faces, joining the two time premiership team.

The first quarter was a slow start with the Bonnie Doon girls finding their groove, the ball went back & forth with goals hard to come by at each end, seeing the score for the quarter 1012 Bonnie Doon way.

The second quarter brought a lot of hard work and drive from Doon, with outstanding pressure by the dream defence team of Ash, Hannah & our Captain Cass, winning a number of tips and intercepts to quickly converted goals by the dynamic attacking end of Madi, Ace, Sarah & Michelle. Bonnie Doon score increasing their lead by 10 goals.

At Half time the girls were given instructions to just keep the ball safe, give the easy shorter option & work the ball down steady.

Casey Hearmon made her debut stepping on the court in

GA with Sarah ready to work her magic in the GS position, it was a tough task with the attack ending working tirelessly to get the ball in for a good shot at goal, spoiled by a whistle coming at every possible opportunity.

Defensive pressure by the Doon girls caused a lot of turnovers that just couldn’t be converted with that pesky whistle blowing loud.

The score once again in Doon’s way by just another two goals.

The fourth and last quarter was the last chance to take advantage of Moyhu’s tiring legs, Doon came out firing once again converting defensive pressure and turnovers into hard fought goals.

The final siren blowing Bonnie Doon 52 defeating Moyhu 30.

A good first hit out by the B res girls, with a lot to work on and smooth out for round 4 against Greta at home next week.

UNDER 17S By STELLA BRAKELS

Bonnie Doon 45 defeated Moyhu 38

Best on court: Tilly Thornton sponsored by Desmond Family

Coaches Award: Chelsea Neale sponsored by Walshs Gas THE girls played another great game on Saturday.

The defence was super strong and the attack end all

worked really hard to get the goals.

Chelsea Tilly and Gemma got many tips and intercepts in the defence end, working really well together and Maya and Chloe’s passes into the shooters were perfect every time.

Charli shot very accurately, and Cobie’s holds were strong, and she shot well like always.

UNDER 15S

By ANNIE ARMSDEN

Bonnie Doon 29 defeated Moyhu 25

Best on court: Keira Thornton sponsored by Mansfield Holiday Letting

Coaches Award: Bella Neale sponsored by Kirley Family

IT was a perfect sunny day for netball at the Moyhu netball courts when Moyhu jumped Bonnie Doon in the first quarter 11-4.

Heading into the second quarter Bonnie Doon’s defence was strong with Bella N, Erin M, Carly D and Annie A pressuring their opponents, which led to turn overs.

The second half was when the Bombers really found their feet with Kiera T and Lara K displaying great accuracy in shooting.

By the last quarter our mid court players Amy C and Sadie B were on top, delivering the ball well to our shooters, leading us to victory with a win 29-25. A nail biting finish.

Gear and fishing report for the High Country

WHEN venturing into the Victorian High Country for backpacking and fishing, your gear choices can significantly impact your experience.

Let’s dive into a detailed gear and fishing report to ensure you’re well-prepared for this adventure.

Essential Gear:

Backpack: Opt for a durable, lightweight backpack with enough capacity to hold your gear and provisions for the trip.

Tent and sleeping gear: Choose a reliable, weatherproof tent and a warm sleeping bag suitable for mountain conditions.

Don’t forget a sleeping pad for insulation and comfort.

Clothing: Pack layers for variable weather, including moisturewicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy hiking boots.

Food and Cooking: Bring lightweight, high-energy meals like dehydrated backpacking food. Carry a compact stove, fuel, utensils, and a water filter or purification tablets.

Navigation: Carry a detailed topographic map, compass, and GPS device.

Familiarise yourself with the route before setting out.

First aid kit: Include essentials like bandages, pain relievers, blister treatment, and any personal medications.

Lighting: Pack a headlamp or

flashlight with extra batteries for nighttime navigation and camp tasks.

Safety Gear: Consider carrying a whistle, signalling mirror, and emergency shelter in case of unexpected challenges.

Personal Items: Don’t forget items like sunscreen, insect repellent, a multi-tool or knife, and a small repair kit for gear maintenance.

FISHING GEAR:

Rod and reel: Choose a versatile, lightweight fishing rod suitable for mountain streams.

A medium-action spinning rod with a small reel works well.

Tackle: Pack a selection of artificial lures such as spinners, spoons, and small crank-baits. Include a variety of hooks, sinkers, and fishing line.

Bait: Carry live bait options like worms or insects if permitted in the area.

Artificial baits like PowerBait can also be effective.

Fishing license: Ensure you have a valid fishing license for the Victorian High Country.

Familiarise yourself with local regulations regarding catch limits, size restrictions, and protected species.

Safety and Conservation: Practice catch-and-release fishing to preserve the ecosystem. Use barbless hooks and handle fish carefully to minimise stress.

FISHING REPORT:

In the Victorian High Country, you’ll find an abundance of pristine mountain streams and lakes teeming with trout, including brown, rainbow, and brook trout. Focus on early mornings or evenings for the best fishing action, as trout are more active during these times.

Popular fishing spots include the Howqua River, Jamieson River, and the Goulburn River.

Target areas with natural cover such as fallen trees, rock formations, and deeper pools where trout often seek shelter and food.

Experiment with different bait and lure presentations to entice bites, and be prepared to adapt your approach based on weather conditions and water clarity.

Keep in mind that fishing in alpine environments can be unpredictable, so flexibility and patience are key.

Weather conditions:

Before embarking on your journey, always check the forecasted weather conditions for the Victorian High Country. Alpine environments can experience rapid weather changes, including sudden storms, temperature drops, and high winds. Prepare accordingly by packing appropriate clothing layers, rain gear, and shelter options.

Be mindful of potential risks such as flash floods or lightning strikes and adjust your plans as needed to ensure safety.

Safety precautions for solo trips:

If you’re backpacking and fishing alone, it’s essential to take extra precautions for your safety.

Inform a trusted person about your trip details, including your planned route, camping locations, and expected return date. Provide them with emergency contact information, such as park authorities or local emergency services.

Check in with them at designated intervals using a satellite communicator or other reliable communication device if available.

Additionally, consider carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger device that can send distress signals in case of emergencies.

These devices can be invaluable for summoning help if you encounter unexpected challenges or injuries while alone in remote areas.

By staying informed about weather conditions and taking proactive safety measures, you can enhance your enjoyment of backpacking and fishing in the Victorian High Country while prioritising your well-being.

3

MATCH REVIEW

Solid win for Bombers win

By TRINITY KNIGHT

ON Saturday, the Bonnie Doon seniors dominated the field and finished their second match of the season with a strong victory of 154 points.

The Bombers finished with 22.23 (155) over Moyhu 0.1 (1) at the Moyhu Football Netball Club.

From the first quarter, the Bombers displayed confidence in the air and on the ground kicking four goals with their score rising on the board as the game progressed.

The best players were Jayjay Curtin with one goal, Mathew Hedin, Will Foster who kicked four, Jack Goonan and Joel Sanford with two.

Luke Murray is completing his second year at the Bombers after moving into the team from the Mansfield Eagles in 2023.

He displayed strong skills kicking seven goals bringing his season total to 12.

Head coach of the Bombers, Campbell Smedley was impressed with the team’s consistency throughout the match maintaining forward pressure and working closely together as a team.

“It was a solid win for the Bonnie Doon football club with a number of positives to take out of the game,” he said.

“I was particularly happy with the high defensive effort and intensity the boys played with over the four quarters.

“What’s contributed to the team’s success so far is a team first mentality and our high pressure.

“I was happy with the progress of our team structure.”

Some of Campbell’s standout players were Matthew Hedin and Luke Murray.

“Jayjay Curtin on ground and James Law who is currently in his third year at Bonnie Doon and previously played with the Mansfield Eagles kicked five goals,” Campbell said.

Next week the Bombers will play against Greta at their home ground.

Campbell said they are excited for the challenge ahead.

“We knocked Greta out in the prelim last year, but they’ve had a couple of good wins this year as well, so it will be a good test for us to see where we’re at,” he said.

“We know next week is going to be a super tough hit out but, I’m hoping we can take some confidence from the last two weeks and put our best foot forward against Greta.”

Campbell said that the team’s success will continue with on-going training and maintaining a consistent approach.

The Bonnie Doon Reserves team also came out on top leading by 38 points over Moyhu.

Bonnie Doon won the match with 10.10 (70) to Moyhu 5.2 (32).

Next week’s match against Greta will be held at the Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve.

First bounce is at 2pm Saturday April 20.

WINNERS AND LOSERS

*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.

AGRADE: Benalla 38 def Bright 37 Goorambat 25 def by KingValley Moyhu 31 def by Bonnie Doon 57

Tarrawingee 30 def by Greta 39 Whorouly 44 def NorthWangaratta 27

B GRADE: Benalla 30 def by Bright 59; Goorambat 33 def King Valley 29; Moyhu 25 def by Bonnie Doon 58; Tarrawingee 34 def by Greta 50; Whorouly 51 def North Wangaratta 29

B RESERVE: Goorambat 14 def by King Valley 30; Moyhu 30 def by Bonnie Doon 52; Tarrawingee 38 def by Greta 44; Whorouly 61 def North Wangaratta 14

C GRADE: Benalla 9 def by Bright 57; Goorambat 51 def King Valley 38; Moyhu 38 def by Bonnie Doon 45; Tarrawingee 31 def by Greta 64; Whorouly 34 def North Wangaratta 25.

UNDER 15s: Benalla 19 def Bright 18; Goorambat vs King Valley; Moyhu 25 def by Bonnie Doon 29; Tarrawingee 3 def by Greta 21; Whorouly 18 def by North Wangaratta 31

SATURDAY, APRIL 20

BRIGHT vs WHOROULY

GOALS: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Dylan Sinclair 1. BRIGHT: Cooper Thomason 10, Declan

Bren 8, Jack Dalbosco 2, Riley Bacon 1, Patrick Bren 1, Samuel Dalbosco 1, Kieren Jamieson 1, Nick Lebish 1. BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Sam Cox, Chelton Orchard, Jordan Smith, Dwaine Lancaster, David Button, David Whitechurch. BRIGHT: Michael Elliott, Cooper Thomason, Declan Bren, Thomas Gray, Samuel Dalbosco, Dale Breeding. GOORAMBAT

KING

GOALS: GOORAMBAT: Duane Haebich 6, Travers Nolan 3, Dylan Beavis 2, Kobe Black 2, Jamie Dunne 2, Rhys Goodley 2, Lachlan Boyle 1, Darcy Edgar 1, Charles Hunter 1, Sully

Malay 1. KING VALLEY: Joshua Cook 2, Jack Davies 1, Joshua Toy 1. BEST: GOORAMBAT: Duane Haebich, Samuel Gladstone, Lachlan Boyle, Darcy Edgar, Joel Bate, Rhys Goodley.

KING VALLEY: Dylan Browne, Joshua Toy, Sam Evans, Thomas Stewart, Beau Wheeler, Joshua Cook.

MOYHU

GOALS: BONNIE DOON: Luke Murray 7, James Law 5, Will Foster 3, Conor Heaslip 3, Joel Sanford 2, Al Bennett 1, Jayjay Curtin 1. BEST: MOYHU: Dylan Carmody, Jett Roberts, David McDonald, Ethan Rooney, Nick Stewart. BONNIE DOON: Jayjay Curtin, Matthew Hedin, Luke Murray, Will Foster, Jack Goonan, Joel Sanford.

TARRAWINGEE

GRETA

GOALS: TARRAWINGEE: Dylan Adams 1, Austin Amery 1. GRETA: Frazer Judd 15, Cody Crawford 6, Tyler Arrowsmith 5, Lachie Kennett 4, Brodie Pearson 3, Bradley Whinray 3, Joshua Bell 2, Brenton Newbold 2, Dale Walker 1,

TOP NOTCH: Bombers Coach Campbell Smedley said Jayjay Curtin was a standout player in the team’s win on the weekend.

Eagles win over Shepparton Swans

GV FOOTBALL

By TRINITY KNIGHT

ON Saturday, the Mansfield Eagles senior team looked strong as they won their first game for the season in front of a home crowd at the Mansfield Recreation Reserve.

The Eagles scored 15.9 (99) over the Shepparton Swans 14.12 (96).

In the first half of the game, the Eagles displayed strong forward pressure kicking four goals in the first quarter and six in the second.

In the final minutes of the last quarter, the Swan’s kicked three goals and their score slowly but surely moved up on the board, however the Eagles continued to hold their winning position taking the lead by three points.

Head coach of the Eagles Jack Hutchins said it was a nailbiting finish for the Eagles, but he was impressed with their resilience on the ground.

“The last minutes were daunting, but we managed to hold on,” said Hutchins.

“It’s just good to go away with a win and get some rewards that we’ve been building off in the last few weeks.

“Shep Swans were onto things early which was pleas-

ing to see and then to their credit they came back and were streaming forward which was quite hard to stop and defend.

“It’s always great to win in front of your home crowd and we had a great attendance on the weekend.”

Some standout players were Brett Mahoney and Dirk Koenen who each kicked one goal, Ben Christopher with two and Cody George and Nathan Buchanan with four.

“I thought Brett in the middle was fantastic, he drove through and took the game on showing his class in the midfield,” Jack said.

“Dirk had a change of position and we put him in the ruck where he came up against a giant and he was super.

“Going forward Ben was great; he competed all day and got some reward and also Cody with his pressure forward had a bit of a turn in the midfield.

“Nathan was half forward and wing on the weekend, which is where he’s been playing for the last few weeks.

“He is coming along really well and he’s starting to work on his game in terms of smarts around contests and ball use.”

Jack said in the weeks to follow the Eagles main focus will

NETBALL SCORES

A Grade: Euroa 53 def Tatura 42

Rochester 58 def Kyabram 46

Mansfield 43 def by Shepparton Swans 53

Shepparton United 43 def by Shepparton 47

Mooroopna 69 def Benalla 24

continue to be playing specific roles and not get overruled by situations in the game.

“We’ll continue to build pressure holding on for the last quarter where this week we could have nullified to make momentum; I think that will be something we can keep building on moving forward.”

Next week the Eagles will face Tatura.

“Tatura have certainly improved on last year I think they had a win, first up in round one,” said Hutchins.

“They are looking like they’ll be a challenge especially away.”

The Eagles will come up against Tatura this Saturday April 20 at Tatura Park.

First bounce is at 2pm.

The Mansfield Eagles reserves team were defeated by the Shepparton Swans.

Eagles 3.4 (22) to the Swans 4.5 (29).

The Mansfield U18s side were also defeated by the Swans.

Eagles 5.9 (39) to the Swans 12.6 (78).

FIRST WIN OF THE SEASON: Adam Boshevski takes a strong mark in the Eagle’s game against the Swans at the weekend.

VALLEY SENIORS LADDER ROUND 3

GOALS: EUROA: Tristan Davies 3, Matthew Ivill 2, Fletcher Paul 1, Andrew Smith 1, Jett Trotter 1, Silver Yousif 1. TATURA: Jacob Simpson 3, Sean McAllister 1, Tim Wilson 1. BEST: EUROA: Nate Trotter, Max Gleeson, Tristan Davies, Nic Burke, Jack McKernan. TATURA: Ethan Penrith, Jake Warren, Jacob Simpson, Matt Rennie, Mitchell Elliott.

GOALS: ROCHESTER: Sean Williams 3, Wil Hamilton 2, Mitch Cricelli 1, Adam McPhee 1, James McPhee 1, Dillon Williams 1. KYABRAM: Anthony Depasquale 4, Bradley Mangan 2, Kaine Herbert 1, Jake Parkinson 1, Khy Stovell 1. BEST: ROCHESTER: Matt Kellett, Dylan Gordon, Mitchell Trewhella, Wil Hamilton, Adam McPhee. KYABRAM: Lachlan Smith, Marcus Khoo, Charlie Barnett, Joshua Dillon, Anthony Depasquale. EUROA

GOALS: MANSFIELD: Nathan Buchanan 4, Billy Hogan 3, Ben Christopher 2, Jayden Howes 2, Tom Dunstan 1, Dirk Koenen 1, Ben Les 1, Brett Mahoney 1. SHEPPARTON SWANS: Steele Simpson 4, Mark Kovacevic 2, Matt Perry 2, Mitchell Grumley 1, Nathan Hrovat 1, Jamie Macmillan 1, Liam Rachele 1, Lucas Rachele 1, Nathan Rachele 1. BEST: MANSFIELD: Brett Mahoney, Dirk Koenen, Adam Boshevski, Nathan Buchanan, Harry Mahoney. SHEPPARTON SWANS: Mason Pedretti, Luke Davies, Steele Simpson, Enrique Goggin, Mitchell Grumley.

PHOTO: Paul Martin

Busy week of ladies competition

GOLF

ANOTHER busy week of golf with both Stableford and Stroke competitions. Terrific to see Wendy Hunt with another win for Tuesday’s Stableford.

Her 17 points beat Patsy Smiles and Susan Kinloch with 15 each.

It was also great to see both Gayle Wells and Donnalee Ross back on the course.

Wednesday last week saw Jan Bedford winning the B Grade with a net 72.

Jan is fairly new to the ladies competitions so well done.

Keep that up Jan and your handicap will soon start to move. Lesley Anderson and Jenny Foster not far behind with 73 and 74.

Sheryl Sargent also had 72 to win A Grade from Marg Knapp 73 and Millie Cumming 74.

The sole line ball was Robyn Baker.

Nearest the pin (NTP) Marion Foster third, Kylie Egan seventh, Jan Bedford 16th and Sam Bailey with a great third shot on 18th.

Not that far from the hole Sam.

Sheryl Sargent won the putting.

No players for Thursday.

Ladies saving themselves for pennant on Friday.

Ten ladies played Stableford on Saturday.

Shelly Comerford in good form with a perfect 36 points from Sue Parsons 34 and Jenny Koraus 31.

Pennant on Friday saw divisions three and four have 5/0 wins.

Well done ladies with special mention to pennant newbie Kerri Nicol who smashed her opponent 7/6.

Division four needed to have that win to make the finals but as luck would have it the top team Jubilee were wiped 5/0 by Albury and we were pipped at the post.

Division two, undefeated all season, will be playing the final at Corowa next Friday.

Good luck to those amazing ladies.

No doubt Gayle Wells will be leading any celebrations. Watch out Mansfield.

Finally, the Sunday pennant ladies also bought home a 3/2 win from Yarrawonga.

Congratulations.

The Mansfield lady golfers certainly make their presence felt among the North East clubs.

Autumn brings some good golf

MENS GOLF

By ROD SARGENT

THIS week we have lost another friend, member and great bloke in Fred Rogers who finally succumbed to Parkinson’s disease.

Fred was an inspiration to all as he went about life with this debilitating dis-

ease and continued to play golf up until the last couple of months.

Fred you will be missed by us all, and we wish Fred’s family all the best in the future.

Tuesday golf was a little bit different, it was a stroke round with players having to play six holes from each of the three

different colour tees. The day was enjoyed by everyone and Rob Healy came away with the chocolates, with a nett 64, Malcolm Griffiths second on nett 65 and Phil Conway third on nett 66.

Thursday saw a good field of 59 players, with Billy Moran taking out the Gold Tee event.

B Grade winner was Colin Whytcross on 38 points, Damien Ryan second with 38 points and Warren Shepherd third with 37 points. The A Grade saw the best round for quite some time from Alan Parrot, who you could say has been struggling since Christmas, with a great round of 37 points, to edge out his very close

friend Maurie Walsh also on 37 points. Graham Clarke was third on 36 points. Saturday was a small field with only 37 players and the winner of the day was Kyle Bridgeman with an awesome score of 41pts (five under the card) to edge out Jeremy Venermen also on 41pts and Aaron Knight on 37pts.

Sunday pennant was a success for the scratch side, beating Thurgoona on their home track, three and a half to one and half which was a great result.

The handicap side wasn’t as fortunate going down three two.

Next Saturday is the Monthly Medal for April, happy hitting.

WINNING SMILES: Jan Bedford enjoying her golf with Elaine Irwin and Marg FrankeWilliams, PHOTO: Supplied

MANSFIELD MENS GOLF

REVIEWS

Eagles battle the Swans in round two

UNDER 17S

UNDER

Mansfield 34 def

Swans 15

Best on Court sponsored by Mansfield Armchair Cinema –Esher Berry Coaches Award sponsored by Subway – Leah Storer

WHAT an amazing effort the girls put into their first win on the score board.

The girls were just too strong from the start with the sharp shooting of Charlee Bretherton and Sienna Kynnersly working the ring and producing the goods early on.

Centre court had too many girls to choose from, but one girl standing out with her steady passing and ball skills around the ring claiming a well-deserved best on court.

Esher Berry with a young line up of girls including Ellie Marks, Maddie Berry and Harper Smith proving what exciting potential these young group of girls are.

The second quarter proved much the same with some added height going in the goals, Maddie Clarke, showing her holding skill and great positioning.

Girls went into third quarter a little slower, but two of their older girls never stopped in the defence end.

Eva Clydesdale and Leah Storer were a fantastic duo to watch with how hard and well they work together.

The last quarter saw quite a few changes with the new running bench giving the likes of Lily Oliver, Emma Edwards and Kiara Brackman the chance to move around Centre court testing all positions.

Overall, just a fantastic effort by all the girls and an exciting first win bringing lots of motivation for the weeks to come.

Mansfield 19 def by Swans 53

Best on Court sponsored by Joanne Holt – Molly Judge Coaches Award sponsored by Café 41 – Brianna Weight

IN round three, the under 17s played a tough game against Shepparton Swans on Saturday.

With heads held high the girls had positive vibes.

The starting lineup was Annie Thompson in goal shooter, Isabelle Byrne goal attack, Eliza Doig wing attack, Emma Witkiss centre, Brianna Weight wing defence, Jaspa Robbinson goal defence and Molly Judge in goalkeeper.

All girls played strong defensive pressure throughout the court and amazing teamwork by Issy and Annie with amazing shooting.

Molly judge and Jaspa Robbo put on a hard game for the GA and GS for the swans.

By the second and third quarter the swans had taken a big lead, but that didn’t stop the hard work through the mid court to get the ball down to our goalies, the defenders kept on their players with many intercepts.

We made some changes to the game by Annie and Jaspa working together to get the points up.

Harper Anderson continued the pressure in GK.

By the fourth quarter the girls kept their heads held high to push through and applying what we have learnt at training onto the court, had noticeable improvement with defensive and attacking play as well as movement on the court.

The ending scores being 19 to 53 Swans.

Best on being Jaspa Robinson for her amazing efforts at shooting and holding her own in defence and Brianna weight getting coaches.

Well done eagle’s amazing efforts.

B RESERVE

Mansfield 33 def by Swans 45

Best on Court sponsored by Steam Café – Sarah White Coaches Award sponsored by Subway – Chloe Rekers

WHAT an amazing day the b res girls had on court.

With the first half keeping everyone on the side of their seat with the score board being point to point.

As we entered the second half we started to get tired and unfortunately let it go, but held our time and continued to play our best netball end score was only

about down by ten points.

As the amazing Leonie Berry gets on court it just settles the team all over slowing us all down and playing our best netball. Sarah white in GS all game was absolutely smashing it.

She continues her best netball, awarding her best on court.

B GRADE

Mansfield 20 def by Swans 63

Best on Court sponsored by Alpine Home – Belle Edwards Coaches Award sponsored by Byrne Seeds – Kara Dolling

B GRADE started strong with solid attack and defence happening throughout the court. Throughout the game defenders made as many turnovers as possible with getting intercepts, tips and rebounds to provide opportunities for Mansfield to score.

The mid-court assisted the ball down the court and fed the ball into the shooters.

Players working in goals made continuous hard drive towards the ball and created plenty of movement in the ring, however even with the b graders making continuous efforts, Shepp Swans took the upper hand defeating Mansfield.

A GRADE Mansfield 43 def by Swans 53

Best on Court sponsored by Mansfield Foodworks- Sophie Carr - Paterson Coaches Award sponsored by Simpsons Fuel – Darcy Croxford - Demasi Saturday saw Mansfield Eagles take on the Shepparton Swans

THE Eagles were eager to take the court after connecting over a solid warm up in the beautiful sunshine.

From the first whistle, the girls came out punching.

Scoring the first few goals set the tone for the game, keeping the swans on their toes.

Alex Ball was as agile as ever, leading the attacking end and maintaining her composure when the Swans gained a lead.

Molly Rekers held with strength and pulled in accurate feeds from Jess Dolling.

Thanks to the defensive end, both Tilly Lang and Nelle Cousins worked tirelessly to narrow the lead the swans had gained.

This excited Eagles army both on and off the court.

Amy Dixon-Rielly played her first game for the season after injury and what a comeback it was.

Unfortunately, in the last quarter the Swans were too strong and gained a lead of ten goals.

The girls are proud of their efforts, although do feel the sting of the loss which has left us in a hungry position wanting our first win for the season.

Special thanks to Lucie Mitchell for her support and guidance, she was integral in keeping us composed and accountable for our performance.

Thank you to Tahlia Browning for coming on with impact and applying amazing defensive pressure after a full game of B Grade.

Merton Campdraft weekend success

By LYNN ELDER

THE Merton Campdraft Club ran its third annual event over the weekend April 12 to 14 which was a huge success thanks to fine conditions and the dedication of a small but hardworking committee.

With more than 700 entries for seven events, the three-day campdraft attracted competitors from across Victoria and interstate, and the club wanted to thank everyone who supported the actionpacked program.

“The weekend kicked off with the ladies’ event, followed by the maiden, junior, juvenile and open events,” said club secretary Lisa Smith.

“Our junior and juvenile events are a great way of giving kids a chance to be part of the action.

“And many of them give the adults a run for their money.

“Campdrafting is a great sport for the whole family to enjoy.

“On Sunday, we started with the Alan Fox Memorial Novice event, followed by the encouragement event to round out the weekend.

“The encouragement event is designed to provide an entry level competition to riders starting out in campdrafting,” Lisa said.

“As a club, we think it’s important to give people an opportunity to give campdrafting a go.”

“We’d like to thank Fox Pastoral and Fox Dairies for coming on board as our major cattle donors, and Kerrabili Pastoral Co, based in Merton, for donating the cattle for the encouragement event.

“We are extremely grateful to Luke Hilton from TRAX Livestock Carriers for donating his weekend to cart the cattle for us.”

“Events like this just aren’t possible without the support from our sponsors, including our major sponsor Oakdale Meat Co., as well as the Lovick Family, Rupari Ag, Ground Up Tree and Stump Removal, G Mack Contracting and local business Koala Cherries.”

Prizes over the weekend were kindly donated by Johnson’s Natural Formula, Gidgee Eyewear and Salon No. 4 Mansfield.

“Finally, I’d like to thank our hardworking committee members for the hours they’ve put in to make our upcoming event a success,” said Lisa.

“Thanks also to local farmers Jim and Jan Young and Les and Margaret Ridd for the loan of essential equipment needed to prepare our campdraft arena.”

■ Full results to follow in next edition.

TOP PLACE: Tash Adams and Beljay Miss Cassidy beat more than 200 other entries to win the novice final at Merton Campdraft on the weekend. PHOTO: Lynn Elder

CAMPDRAFT