Mansfield Courier, Wednesday, May 24, 2023

MAKING THEIR MARK

The Family of secrets

WRITING about your childhood experience of growing up in a cult involves cathartic reflection, meticulous research, and a whole lot of butcher paper.

At least that’s according to cult survivor Ben Shenton.

“A few years ago, I basically took a huge roll of butcher paper and laid it down on a lunch table and just started scribbling down thoughts,” he said.

“I used mind-mapping apps to try and connect my memories and spoke with other family members to clarify what I remembered

BY HANNAH KENNELLY hkennelly@ nemedia.com.au

was accurate.”

Ben grew up in The Family, a notorious doomsday cult residing in Lake Eildon between the 1960s to the 1980s.

Led by matriarch Anne Hamilton-Byrne, the cult acquired approximately 28

children - some through adoption scams and others who were biological children of other cult members.

Dressed identically with bleached platinum hair, the children were isolated from the rest of society and believed Hamilton-Byrne was their mother.

Ben’s upcoming book, Life behind the Wire, delves into his childhood memories

of the cult and explores his subsequent rescue and transition into society.

The chapter titled Liberation Day, recounts the moment police rescued him and his siblings in 1987.

Ben said sifting through his childhood memories for the book was an enlightening yet deeply confronting experience.

“People always want to know ‘what did you go

through?’, so I had to dig through all the memories, trauma and emotions of what happened,” he explained.

“You can’t just write things down mechanically, you’ve got to put life into it and put flesh and blood on it “

“So in a sense I was moving around the skeletons in my closet.”

An integral part of Ben’s research approach

was discerning how Anne Hamilton-Byrne managed to successfully operate a cult and evade detection for over 20 years.

“I really wanted to get my head around how Anne did it,” he said.

“How did she manage to convince academic geniuses and professionals to follow her?”

A previous yoga teacher, Hamilton-Byrne preached a concoction of apocalyptic prophecies and claimed she was the reincarnation of the Messiah.

■ Continued page 3

(From left) MASS CEO Simone Reeves, MP Jacyln Symes, Max Hennessy, and Kerrianne Barnes got down and dirty to kick off the next phase of MASS’ Operation Gamechanger. Full story on page 2.

PHOTO: Hannah Kennelly

Council reacts to federal budget

WITH the federal budget handed down, Mansfield Shire Council is positive about what funding will do for council services.

Mayor Cr James Tehan said there were some great wins for the shire after federal representatives called

for further regional spending, especially on infrastructure, housing and relieving cost of living pressures.

“The Budget indicates that an estimated $746 million will be provided to Victorian councils under the financial assistance grants program

in 2023-24,” he said.

“This includes general purpose and local roads grants and represents an increase of $65.6 million (or 9.6%) compared to the amount allocated to councils in 2022-23 which is fantastic news.”

Mayor Tehan explained that internal pressures have meant that the Mansfield Shire is looking for more assistance to keep up with demand.

“As a small regional Council, with a Shire that has experienced three times our

forecasted growth in population, we welcome this shortterm support and the opportunities it presents for us to further invest in services and infrastructure in Mansfield Shire,” he said.

“The demand for this investment from the com-

munity is not slowing, and alongside significantly increased visitation in recent times, we understand its importance and will continue to seek long-term support to help with the increased demand and costs Council is experiencing.”

Construction kicks off again for MASS’ Operation Gamechanger

By HANNAH KENNELLY

MINISTER Jacyln Symes is not afraid to get her hands dirty.

The Member for Northern Victoria recently kicked off construction at the Mansfield Autism State-Wide Services (MASS) Therapeutic Care Farm building site.

Known as Operation Gamechanger, the specifically designed campus will deliver innovative and tailored classrooms for students with autism.

The project will include five general learning area class-

rooms with separate amenities, vocational, life experience, therapy, and training spaces with observations areas - all built with high resilience and low sensory design.

MP Symes described Operation Gamechanger as “life changing for children with autism and their families”.

“Every Victorian student deserves the best opportunity to thrive when it comes to their education - that’s why we’re contributing to building this exciting new specialist education campus,” she said. Delivered with a $4.9 million investment from the

State Government, the project is scheduled to be completed in mid-2024 and is part of a $402 million initiative to improve infrastructure across independent and catholic schools.

MASS Chief Executive Simone Reeves said Project Education is being built to help meet enrolment demand and is a critical piece in the jigsaw puzzle that delivers student residences, meeting, training, recreational, and family camp facilities on the farm.

“The whole project is valued at over $52m and will be an Australian first in the delivery

of integrated, wrap around autism services in Australia,” she said.

“The students will stay on the farm on term therapeutic placement and walk over to their new school campus.

“Over 50 years of experience has gone into the design of the campus and we are so excited to see construction commence,” she said.

Hennessy Constructions based out of Merrijig were awarded the contract to build the new school campus, with Kerrianne Barnes of Maya and Moss as architect and project manager.

SMOOTHING THE CEMENT: MP Symes lent a hand to construction workers at MASS’ Operation GameChanger site.

PHOTO: Hannah Kennelly

LIFE BEHIND

THE WIRE: Ben Shenton’s upcoming book explores his childhood memories

The Family of secrets

■ From page 1

She allegedly used starvation and beatings as disciplinary techniques and injected the children with LSD as part of initiation rituals.

While aided by the use of hallucinogens, Ben argued Hamilton-Byrne’s use of religious ideologies and indoctrination techniques was insidiously effective.

“Yes, she preyed on people who were in need and used LSD, but there was also a major spiritual element,” he said.

“She set up a belief system to transition people from the Judeo-Christian worldview to her own.

“Learning about the frameworks she used made me wonder what lessons can be learned and how do we avoid things like this?”

Despite her alleged atrocities, Hamilton-Byrne never faced abuse charges and was only is-

sued with a $5000 fine for falsifying birth documents.

She passed away in 2019 in a nursing home from dementia.

Ben was frustrated by the lack of legal repercussions for Hamilton-Byrne, but believed “the outcome would remain unchanged”.

“I don’t think justice applied to Anne would have produced any change in her - she was too far gone,” he admitted.

“But I think it would have said to society ‘This is wrong and this is unacceptable’.

“Don’t hurt children, don’t hurt the vulnerable.”

Ben’s childhood is inspiration for an upcoming Disney+ series, The Clearing, debuting on May 24.

The eight-part psychological thriller stars an impressive line-up of Aussie actors and is based off the crime novel by J.P Pomare.

The series joins a long cata-

logue of documentaries, books, and podcasts inspired by the Family.

Ben said he was not contacted by Disney+ in regards to the production or script.

He listened to the audiobook the series is based on and described it as a “fantastic fastpaced action book that was nowhere near the truth”.

“The beauty of it for Disney+ is that they only have to deal with one author, they don’t have to deal with damaged children,” he said.

“It’s really something I have no control over, so I really hope the series makes people want to find out more about the story.”

Ben currently works as a project manager and serves as pastor in his local church.

He recently celebrated his 30th wedding anniversary with his wife and two kids.

“I absolutely love serving people and helping them con-

nect with God, not controlling or manipulating them,” he said.

His website, Rescue the Family, is dedicated to “sharing lessons on overcoming trauma” and educating people on the dangers of cult ideologies.

Ben hoped his upcoming book would ignite conversations about power imbalances in society.

“The reason I chose to write my story is to try and speak to the human dilemma of power structures, communities, and leadership,” he said.

“Stronger parties taking advantage of weaker ones, institutions that appear to be looking after you and belief systems that look good.

“Cults aren’t just religious; they are a belief system that drive a political position.

“Yes I’ve come through this, but there are lessons to be learned that we can’t sweep under the rug.”

Our warming menu specials are on the go again – perfect to combat the chilly weather right now.

This week …..

Duo of sausages with garlic & parmesan mash, gravy and peas

House made Chicken Kiev served with bacon, pea and rosemary rice and green beans.

LONG WEEKEND MUSIC

We’re celebrating our long weekend with some fabulous live music - Bo Jenkins is returning to the Delatite Hotel stage to take over the mic. You’re in for a great night outdon’t miss it!

PART OF THE FAMILY: Ben Shenton was rescued from the cult when he was 15 years old.

MOVING FORWARD: Ben Shenton and his family at Christmas

Wednesday: Shower or two

Temperature: 4-14

Thursday: Showers

Temperature: 5-13

Friday: Showers

Temperature: 3-9

Saturday: Shower or two

Temperature: 1-11

Sunday: Possible shower

Temperature: 3-13

Monday: Shower or two

Temperature: 6-12

Tuesday: Showers

Temperature: 4-11

Week to 9am Monday–7mm

Month Total (May 2023) – 27.2mm

Month Total (May 2022) – 37.2mm

YTD Total – 202.6mm

Total (2022) - 977.20mm

Total (2021) – 789.9mm

Total (2020) – 746.6mm

Readings as at 9am Monday

This week: This week 287.16 full 93.1% of capacity 1.74m below full supply level

Inflow: 1,500 megalitres per day

Release: 1,850 megalitres per day

Ros Fauvel is stepping up

Driver with cannabis in system has licence disqualified

A MAN has had his licence suspended in the Mansfield Magistrates Court after being found driving with cannabinol in his system.

Police observed the man driving along the Maroondah Highway in an unregistered vehicle which was then intercepted and the man identified.

By SAMUEL O’BRIEN

MEET Ros Fauvel, SES Mansfield’s new controller.

Having been in the region for the past 30 years, she is looking to bring her experience and passion to the role as Tom Thoburn steps down.

“I’ve been farming in Bonnie Doon for 20 years,” she said.

“We lived in Melbourne for 15 of those, becoming weekend farmers.

“There are a lot of people that commute every weekend.

“It was like changing occupations on a Friday night and changing back on Monday.”

During the week Ros was a teacher, assisting children from a broad range of backgrounds and abilities to learn English.

When she retired, she and her husband Chris decided to move up to the Mansfield area permanently.

It was Chris who convinced Ros to join the SES.

“He was very much focused on the SES and CFA, and helping people in emergencies sort of fitted into what I was doing in my teaching role,” Ros said.

“I was working with people that were in need, which fit the same criteria [as my teaching work].”

While Ros is new to the role, she said that she feels well supported by the SES team.

“Mansfield SES is a fantastic group of people,” she said.

“They’re very dedicated to what they’re doing.

“They work as a team, which is fantastic.

“No one has to know everything but as a team, we know a lot.”

A lot of this she credits to outgoing controller Tom Thoburn, who has led the unit for the past eight years.

“That is a lot of his life dedicated to the SES,” Ros said.

“He has kept the standard of training, morale and recruitment at a really high standard, and that’s built Mansfield

into the unit it is now.

“He deserves a lot of praise.”

Ros hopes she can help the Mansfield SES to be even more successful during her time.

“I want to maintain the high standards we’ve got,” she said.

“I want to continue to build that link with the community and their understanding of what we do but also their understanding of how to be prepared for emergencies.”

Nowadays Ros does the reverse trip to Melbourne, visiting her two daughters who live in the city.

“I’m still doing my trips, just in a different direction,” she said.

The man tested negative for alcohol but tested positive for illicit drugs with an oral fluid test.

Upon further testing, police found that he man had consumed cannabis which he admitted to when interviewed.

The man claimed that he did not feel inebriated when asked why he was driving with illicit drugs in his system.

In the court, the man explained that he had recently given up cigarettes and had taken the cannabis many hours before driving to “keep the cravings at bay” and thought he was in the clear to operate a motor vehicle.

The magistrate explained that marijuana remains illegal and no medical exemption would allow the man to drive with cannabinol in his system.

“Cigarettes are hard but at least they are legal,” the magistrate said.

“If you want to smoke marijuana - which I recommend that you don’t - I’d recommend you not drive for four weeks after you have had a joint.”

The man was fined $500 and his licence was disqualified for 12 months.

Hannah Kennelly (JOURNALIST)

Samuel O’Brien (JOURNALIST)

Emma Oliver (JOURNALIST) Pam Zierk-Mahoney (JOURNALIST)

Leah Scott (ADVERTISING MANAGER)

Edward Higgins (DIRECTOR) Jarrah Loh (SENIOR JOURNALIST /BRANCH MANAGER)

The Courier is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the standards may have been breached, you may approach the Courier itself or contact the council

READY TO LEARN: While new to the role, Ros Fauvel (pictured) is confident she has all the right tools to succeed.

SES paints town in orange

LAST week, the Mansfield SES unit turned the town orange to celebrate Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW), thanking State Emergency Service volunteers for their work.

Held annually during National Volunteer Week, WOW Day encourages the public to thank and acknowledge SES volunteers, for the invaluable contribution and commitment they make to local communities.

SES controller Ros Fauvel said the event really helped members of the public understand and appreciate the work volunteers do.

“It is designed to give the community a chance to day

thank you to our volunteers,” she said.

“For us, it is all about building the links with the community and getting a real awareness out there of what the SES actually does.”

On High Street, volunteers put on a sausage sizzle, allowing passers-by to participate in the day by learning more about the SES and thank them for their work.

Local businesses in Mansfield were also participating, as many adorned their display windows with orange themed products and messages of thanks to the SES.

Whether it was an orange

product, orange decorations or even just a simple thank you, Ros and the SES volunteers noticed it all.

Even the schools and kindergartens got involved, with a special visit to the Farmhouse particularly memorable for Ros.

“It’s lovely going around talking to people who are very appreciative of what our volunteers do,” she said.

“It makes them feel good about what they do, which is really positive.”

Ros thanked the SES Community Engagement team and the volunteers for their hard work.

“They’re very much appreciated,” she said.

SAUSAGES GALORE: The SES were cooking up a storm in the High Street median offering sasuages for passers-by. Pictured (from left) Laurie Daniels, Bethany Moore and Ros Fauvel all doing their part to serve up the food.

HAVING FUN: (Back from left) Sandra McLennan, Evie Goodwin, Chloe Smith and Sarah Zahir, with Isla Evans, Jye Universita and Macy Haines in the front, wearing celebratory orange headwear.

SHOWING APPRECIATION: Theresa Stevenson (centre) put on an impressive morning tea for the SES volunteers at last weeks WOW Day, with (from left) Ros Fauvel, Bethany Moore, Grant Prosser and Laurie Daniels.

GROUP EFFORT: Students and staff at The Farmhouse had fun celebrating the SES WOW (Wear Orange Wednesday) Day last week. The SES crew came for morning tea with the children and together were a sea of orange.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Way Back Wednesday - a look back at what was making news 20 years ago this week.

MANSFIELD will no longer be under the yoke of water restrictions with welcome rains last week prompting Goulburn Valley Water to lift stage five limits on water use.

Consistent wet weather saw 41.0mm of rainfall in Mansfield over the past seven days, reducing the need for strict limitations on household penalties.

In sport, the new soccer season in Mansfield kicks off this Sunday, May 25 at 10 am at the Lords Oval and will once again feature the GoalKick program sanctioned the Victorian Soccer Federation. There will be increased emphasis on game playing, rules and of course further skills development.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Questioning institutions

THERE are people who believe that five elected officials in any Shire, can stand with some agency against their council’s

hope the wet weather will mark the end of a tough summer.

corporate paid administration.

Some believe their elected MP can have agency over how their parties vote.

Then there are people who believe that whatever is on TV and main stream news is the mental picture we should believe, when an

Mansfield Eagles also made a positive representation at the intergleague tournament.

increasing factor is Artificial Intelligence.

My personal belief is that this is like expecting an organic result from an inorgance source.

Unsustainability has it’s own demise built in, so nothing is needed to be done about it.

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

The good and grounding observation I can share is that people will see what they want to see and think what they want to think, and it will be right for them.

Some people will be encouraged by that.

Ishe Boge, Mansfield

Email: edit.mcourier@nemedia.com.au.

Fax: (03) 5775 1580

Post: Letters to the Editor Mansfield Courier, 98 High St, Mansfield 3722.

ARKED IMPROVMENT: The

BACK ON TAP: Goulburn Valley Water M

Mansfield Primary School’s World Greatest Shave

By KATHRYN HEWITT, MPS teacher

ON Thursday, May 11, Mansfield Primary School took part in the World’s Greatest Shave where students signed up to fundraise money to help support

The Leukaemia Foundation.

Each year, thousands of Australians participate in the event, making it their mission to help beat blood cancer by getting sponsored to shave, colour or cut their hair.

Seventeen students signed up to shave their heads on the day, in support of the event.

Our brave team of shavers were: Franzi Stumpf, Corey Purvis, Jack Stevensen, Jake Hoskin, Banjo

Russell, James Camilleri, Kayden Schaeftlein, Brock Martin, Coby Hodge, Poppy Craven, Kai Friday, Keegan Carman, Cody Stevens, Mannix Peck, Jett Riches, Angus Maling and Ashley Harbour.

We also had a team of students who fundraised and coloured their hair on the day.

The total amount raised was $12,264.

We hope that by shaving or colouring our hair we can send hope and support to the many families currently facing blood cancer, raise funds to provide relief to those who need it, and most importantly one day find a cure.

Thank you to everyone who supported our cause.

EXCITING RESULT: Fundraising efforts by the year six students at MPS, delivered the largest amount the school had ever raised for the World’s Greatest Shave.

FUNDRAISING EFFORT: Franzi Stumpf raised an impressive $4,024 (the largest amount for a student), and shaved her long hair off on the day which she also donated.

MPS goes from city to surf

By MACEY EGAN, ALICE HANN and EMMA HINCE, MPS year five students

HERE is a recount of the Mansfield Primary School grade 5 Anglesea camping trip.

On the first day we went to Vic market with $5 each to pick something we had never had before, we had heaps of fun exploring all the shops, then the groups walked to the Sothern Cross station.

We then boarded a train to Geelong.

Once we arrived in Geelong, we boarded a big bus to Anglesea.

The bus drove us to the caravan park.

After the three activities everyone headed back to camp and had free time until dinner.

After dinner, we got ready for the talent show (the dumbos won).

The sun rose on the third day, and we set off into our groups, some groups went surfing and the others had free time around the caravan park.

After a while we swapped.

Our after-dinner activity was trivia. So much fun.

The last day arrived, and the massive journey home was about to begin.

We woke early to get a start on packing up everything.

EMBRACING THE ACTIVITIES: The jumping pillow provided a fun-way to warm up for MPS students at the Anglesea camp.

BOARD RIDING: Wintery weather and the forecast of rain, failed to dampen the year five’s enthusiasm as they took to the waves for their surfing lesson.

We set up and settled in, after dinner the caterers offered us doughnuts. After breakfast we went for a walk along the beach.

After the beach walk, we got ready for stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and an environmental estuary walk.

We stopped at Southern Cross Station on the way home, and all got $10 to spend on whatever lunch we wanted.

We all managed to find some delicious food.

We arrived back at MPS at 6:30pm.

A big thank you to everyone who helped make it happen.

Your Council - Your News mansfield

mansfield.vic.gov.au

Council Meetings

The upcoming scheduled Council meeting is Tuesday 27 June 2023 at 5pm and will be held online. Go to the events section on our website for information about how to observe the meeting or contact Customer Service on 5775 8555.

Have Your Say

CRES Application until 26 May Urban Tree Planting until 24 May

Proposed 2023-24 Budget until 7 June

Work with Us

Full advertisements and position descriptions are available on our website.

Proposed 2023-24 Budget

Community members are invited to give feedback on the P

The budget outlines what Council will deliver over the next 12 months including new initiatives and core services and how they will be funded. The 2023-24 budget proposes a totaloperating expenditure of $25 million, with a $15.58 million Capital Works Program and a 3.5% rate increase, in line with the State Government Rate Cap.

Submissions will be accepted up to 5:00 pm on Wednesday 7 June 2023. View the on engage.mansfield.vic.gov.au

Community Information Sessions

Mansfield

33 Highett Street, Mansfield

Wednesday 31 May, 5.00pm

Online via Zoom

Wednesday 31 May, 6.30pm

Residents and ratepayers are invited to attend the above information sessions to be facilitated by Councillors and senior officers regarding the Proposed Budget.

To attend either information sessions you must register via email at budget@mansfield.vic.gov.au, or call 5775 8555.

Engage With Us!

Planning Applications

Public Notices for the following planning application can be found under 'Public Notices' in the Classified section of the Courier. 86-92 Highett Street Mansfield

Additional Meeting of Council

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that an additional meeting of the Mansfield Shire Council will be held on Tuesday 6 June 2023 at 4.00pm in the Council Chamber at 33 Highett Street, Mansfield.

Business to be conducted at the meeting is as follows:

Confidential Report - Lakins Road

Land Sale

Confidential Report - HVAR

Such other business as determined by the unanimous decision of the Council.

High Country, Lakes and Rivers

Arborist Works Planned

Extensive arborist works are planned for the Mansfield Township from late May – June 2023. Council, with support from a qualified arborist continue to complete regular assessment of Urban trees to ensure trees are in good health, with a focus on community safety and the positive natural features that healthy trees generate.

Planned works include formative pruning, removal of dead wood and weight reduction to ensure healthy tree shape and balance. Work areas will include the High Street Median Strip and Amor Drive, Mansfield. This work will complement the annual Elm, Ash and Oak tree injections that protect Urban trees from various pests and diseases.

To view either of the below masterplans, and share your feedback visit engage.mansfield.vic.gov.au

Botanic Park Masterplan

Council is undertaking a review of the Mansfield Botanical Park Masterplan to ensure it reflects the community's vision for a vibrant, accessible, and sustainable public open space.

The plan aims to retain the openness of the park while improving accessibility and balancing natural and developed areas.

Public meetings and site walks will be hosted by Council for the community to share their ideas on the following dates:

Botanical Park Site Walk (starting at BBQ area): Tuesday 30 May 10.00am - 11.00am

Information Drop In Session: Wednesday 31 May 12:30pm - 2.00pm at the Council Chamber, 33 Highett Street Mansfield

Mansfield Station Precinct

Council invites the community to take part in the review of the Mansfield Station Precinct Masterplan.

The Precinct includes the rail trail, information Centre, walking trails, and wetlands. The current plan features an all abilities play area, play area, pump flow track for cyclists, new parking areas, a community civic hub, and a rail trail facilities area.

Public meetings and site walks will be hosted by Council on the following dates:

Station Precinct Site Walk (starting at the VIC): Tuesday 30 May 1.00pm - 2.00pm

Information Drop In Session: Wednesday 31 May 12:30pm - 2.00pm at the Council Chamber, 33 Highett Street Mansfield

Councillors: Cr James Tehan (Mayor), Cr Steve Rabie (Deputy Mayor), Cr Paul Sladdin, Cr Mark Holcombe, Cr Rohan Webb

Kirsten Alexander, Chief Executive Officer

Winter strain on housing is Haines’ focus

By SAMUEL O’BRIEN

AS winter approaches and the Mansfield and Mount Buller regions ready themselves for an influx of tourists, regional housing has once again be called into focus, with Independent member for Indi Dr Helen Haines calling on the government to do more.

She told the National Rural Press Club in Canberra last week the Government must invest in critical enabling infrastructure to boost housing supply in regional Australia, proposing a $2

billion Regional Housing Infrastructure Fund, which would enable critical enabling infrastructure to help much-needed housing projects get off the ground.

Speaking as part of a panel on regional housing, the Independent Federal Member for Indi made the case for funding to solve housing issues specific to the regions.

“In Australia, especially in the regions, the heart our problem is a desperate lack of housing supply,” Dr Haines said.

“We need to unlock in-

vestment in new houses by building the basic infrastructure needed for new, multi-type developments.

“And it would have the flexibility to fund social infrastructure and provide local government assistance to fast-track planning approvals, because that’s a big challenge in the regions.”

In her address, Dr Haines explained that regional tourism is struggling as housing remains unaffordable for residents.

“Whenever I speak to a business owner, they tell me

they’re unable to fill job vacancies because people cannot find anywhere to live,” she said.

“Many usually bustling cafes who came back after COVID are being forced to let the passing traffic just walk on by because they cannot open every day - they have no because there is nowhere to live.

“Rural Councils Victoria estimates that if we don’t build the extra homes needed, we could lose up to $1 billion in Gross Regional Product over the next 15 years.”

Dr Haines also pointed to housing as one of the exacerbating factors in shortages of worker supply in the electorate, especially for essential services like healthcare.

“In my electorate of Indi, the largest workforce - over 11,000 people - work in health care and social assistance,” she said “We need to grow that workforce into the future.

“But, again we need to find them somewhere to live.

“In the worst-case scenario, people are living without a stable roof over their heads at all.”

The independent member’s proposal focusses on infrastructure, allowing for plans proposed by regional councils to go ahead once infrastructure upgrades are complete.

Dr Haines told the Press Club plans by local councils to help solve the housing crisis are already in place around regional Australia, calling on the government to support her proposal.

“This is an opportunity for the federal government to be a national leader where, really, previously it has fallen short,” she said.

AWARDS NIGHT: North East Victorian hotels were well represented at the Australian Hotels Association (AHA) Victoria 2023 State Awards for Excellence this week.

Local pubs among best in the state

Mansfield Hotel

LOCAL venues from North East Victoria are listed among the finalists and winners of the Australian Hotels Association (AHA) Victoria 2023 State Awards for Excellence, announced at the Crown Palladium in Melbourne on May 15 in front of more than 1200 people.

The AHA awards are Victoria’s biggest and most prestigious hospitality awards of the year, celebrating the accomplishments of Victoria’s pubs and hotels in 40 distinct categories.

The Vine Hotel in North Wangaratta

and

Anvil Brewing make finals

was a finalist in the Best Pub Restaurant - Regional dining award, while The Old Town ‘n’ Country Tavern was a finalist in the Best Family dining award and Parma of the Year award.

The Harrietville Snowline Hotel was also a finalist in the Parma of the Year award.

The Mansfield Hotel, alongside The Old Town ‘n’ Country Tavern, Vine Hotel Wangaratta, Mountain View Hotel in Whitfield, and Harrietville Snowline Hotel were all finalists in the category

Best Casual Dining - Regional, with the Mountain View Hotel winning the award.

Also, Mansfield’s Anvil Brewing Co. were finalists in Best Outdoor Experience - Regional, with the Mountain View Hotel also taking home that award.

It turned out to be a big night for the Pizzini family, who not only picked up two major awards, but had two employees from the Mountain View Hotel nominated as finalists in Individual Employee Awards categories.

Delatite cellar door gets nomination

THE 2023 Victorian Architecture Awards shortlist has been released and the Delatite Winery’s cellar door has made it on the list.

The cellar door, opened in June 2021, is designed by Lucy Clemenger Architects and takes advantage of the stunning views over Mt Buller and the Alpine Range.

The design has been nominated for an Interior, Commercial, and Sustainable architecture award as well as the regional architecture prize which enables public and peer recognition of the innovative work of the Australian Institute of Architects’ members and promotes architects and architecture across Victoria and Australia.

A total of 249 entries were accepted for consideration across 10 direct categories in the 2023 Victorian Architecture Awards, the highest number of entries in the country.

Managing Director David Ritchie said, “We are thrilled to be shortlisted in four categories in the Victorian architecture awards.

“This is a real testament to the amazing architects at Lucy Clemenger Architects who have designed a beautiful building.

“The design was a collaboration between us and the architects and they delivered above and beyond our brief.

“We really wanted the new building to highlight our commitment to being as sustainable as possible, so to be shortlisted in the sustainable building category was particularly important to us.”

Chair of Juries, Ingrid Bakker LFRAIA said there were some consistent themes among the diverse range of shortlisted projects.

“The overall quality is really high, and this is a real credit to the industry as many of the projects were both designed and realised during the pandemic,” she said.

“There is a focus on place - many of the buildings strongly relate to the context they are in, both through how they are sited and in the materiality.”

Mr Ritchie echoed the statement, saying, “The architects took inspiration from the environment around us.

“The colour of the bricks are designed to blend into the summer grass, the greens used in the interiors are taken from walking along the Howqua river and the use of timber was inspired from local fishing and cattleman’s huts.”

Council chamber meetings in focus

By SAMUEL O’BRIEN

DURING public question time at the April meeting of the Mansfield Shire Council, a member of the public raised a question about council returning to in-person meetings.

The person was concerned that inconsistent internet coverage prevented residents and ratepayers from engaging in council meetings which do not have an in-person option.

In the meeting, Mayor Cr James Tehan explained council is currently looking for a way to hold meetings online and in the council chambers but a solution had not been reached.

All councils surrounding the Mansfield Shire have returned to in-person meetings and have been operating under a hybrid model since the start of 2023.

Council says it has been investigating solutions for three months, pointing to a lack of sufficient technology and funds to hold hybrid meetings in the council chambers.

“We understand it is im-

portant to make participation possible for all of our ratepayers and community members, and for this reason Council has arranged both in person and online sessions for community feedback on the Proposed 2023-24 Budget on May 31 at 5pm and 6:30pm,” Mayor Tehan said.

“Until a hybrid option is available, we continue to provide the opportunity for community members to attend the Council Chamber where a computer can be set up for them to join the Council meeting online.”

Potential funding for hybrid council meetings was allocated to the Digital Transformation project in last year’s budget.

The program, with aims to improve customer service interactions and business dealings though technological improvements in the council’s systems, was justified as being a more effective use of council’s money.

Council has applied for a grant to acquire the equipment to hold hybrid meetings and will hear the outcome of that process shortly.

Strathbogie shire, which has a similar population to Mansfield, has held in-person council meetings from March 2022, with options to attend in person or watch the recording on YouTube

Other councils across the North East have implemented a variety of solutions, all with the option to attend the meeting in person and watch a recording of the meeting afterwards.

Mansfield Shire Council argued that the livestreamed meetings shows higher engagement in council activities and decisions.

“Since Council has moved the meetings online, the community participation has increased markedly,” said Mayor Tehan.

“Council meetings continue to be streamed live and recorded for community members to watch on Council’s YouTube channel at a time that suits them.

“This provides a transparent and accessible opportunity for any community member to see matters of interest to them, noting that 42 per cent of our ratepayers are non-resident.”

OVER THE RAINBOW: Mansfield’s Shire Council’s Liz Bird raising the rainbow flag at the Visitor Information Centre last Wednesday for IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia). The Shire has also recently pledged support for the North East Pride Collective (NEPC) - an advocacy and youth group for LGBTIQA+ young people.

PHOTO: Pam Zierk-Mahoney

Mansfield turns the page for new library

By HANNAH KENNELLY

THEY say you should never judge a book by its cover.

But Mansfield Library’s recent renovations make a pretty good impression.

The library opened their doors last week to welcome a herd of community bookworms and inquisitive minds after five months of renovations.

Friends of Mansfield Library volunteers stood at the entrance and eagerly handed out orange paper goodie bags with books, chocolate, and stationary.

Library staff dressed as fairytale characters bustled

around the room, signing up new members and offering tours.

The library’s new interior design features freshly painted walls with fluffy clouds and green trees and ornamental book lamps suspended from the ceiling.

Multiple shelves of multicolored books fill the room and magical toad stools offer a cozy place to sit and read.

Mayor Cr James Tehan said it was fantastic to see the newly refurbished library.

“The design reflects the beautiful landscapes and colours of Mansfield’s environment and includes an exciting children’s space as

well as areas for socialising, studying, and remote working,” he said.

Mayor Tehan extended his gratitude to the library staff and contractors for their commitment during the renovation period.

Coordinator of Library Services, Justine Shelton, described the library as “Mansfield’s community lounge room”.

“We wanted to create something really special for the community with this renovation, and we are grateful to be able to offer this new space with additional opening hours,” she explained.

“People attend the library for a number of reasons: for programs, community group meetings, seeking tech help and assistance in dealing with government agencies, alongside borrowing from our curated collection.”

Justine emphasised the importance of public libraries for a growing regional community.

“We know that the cost of living is rising, and life is financially difficult for many people,” she said.

“In this regard, public libraries are so important, offering a free space and a free service.”

MP Symes hands over keys to new CFA tanker

By HANNAH KENNELLY

THE Mansfield Fire Brigade have officially welcomed a new tanker to their hardworking team.

The ginormous state-of-theart tanker is one of several being rolled out across Country Fire Authority (CFA) locations across Victoria.

Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes, visited Mansfield last week to officially hand over the keys to the tanker and congratulate volunteers.

MP Symes said the new tanker would provide improved safety outcomes for firefighters and

help the Mansfield community feel safe and secure.

“I congratulate the Mansfield Fire Brigade volunteers on their replacement heavy tanker - this appliance is well deserved and will make a difference in allowing these firefighters to continue carrying out their vital service to the community,” she said.

“We’re providing the equipment our fire services need to help keep our firefighters, volunteers, and communities safe.”

Mansfield CFA Captain Andrew Peachy said the brigade had “fallen in love with the tanker instantly”.

Since its establishment in

1891, the Mansfield Fire Brigade has played a vital role in protecting the community, responding to an average of 95 call outs per year over the last decade.

The heavy tanker replaces the existing CFA single-cab tankers, with the full fleet expected to be rolled out by late 2023.

Thanks to its revolutionary, multilayered crew protection system, the tankers will be able to withstand fire temperatures of more than 600 degrees Celsius during burn overs, meaning CFA members will continue to be protected while firefighting as they carry out their life-saving work.

UPGRADE: MP Jacyln Symes hands over the keys to the new tanker to CFA Captain Andrew Peachy.

PHOTO: Hannah Kennelly

FAIRY CIRCLE: Mansfield Library has a designated children’s section. PHOTO: Samuel O’Brien

Bulk pharmaceuticals not the cure

By EMMA OLIVER

FROM September 1, a change in pharmaceutical dispensing rules will allow Australians to access medication in a 60-day prescription, in a proposed shift from the current 30 day model.

The Federal Government, the Royal Australian College of GPs and the Australian Medical association (AMA) have claimed the new rules to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme will ease cost of living pressures for patients, but the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and pharmacists across the country have told a different story.

While the scheme aims to reduce across-the-counter costs for consumers - with two month supplies costing the same as a monthly prescription - concerns have been raised by both local and nationwide pharmacy operators that the viability of their businesses will be directly impacted.

Halving the cost of the 325 medicines listed on the scheme is projected to save average Australians $180 per year, however the federal government is not subsidizing the reduced price.

Local pharmacists are, while still being expected to provide the same level of duty and care.

“Whilst there will be savings, those who take the most medicine will actually lose out,” said Cathy Henry, of the Mansfield Pharmacy.

“The safety net threshold which is currently 36 scripts is not set to change.

“Currently when 36 scripts is reached, by an an individual, a couple, or a family, a new card is then issued by the pharmacy.

“A drop in the price of all their PBS prescriptions for the rest of the calendar year is then triggered.

“For those who reach this threshold early in the year, this drop in price is welcome and needed.

“It will take twice as long to trigger this price drop with the 60 day model,” Cathy said.

Pharmacists also rely on government subsidies to

dispense medicine, and by halving the frequency of patient visits, annual incomes are set to be significantly affected, impacting local jobs and the ability to provide primary healthcare.

Furthermore, pharmacists expect changes to the scheme will have major effects on the pharmaceutical supply chain, which is already under duress.

For Mansfield’s Eisners Pharmacy, financial cuts will impact dayto-day operations.

“We have a great relationship with our local doctors, practitioners and the hospital,” said local pharmacist John Eisner.

“It’s a positive process of consultation and collaboration to achieve the best health outcomes for our patients.

“It’s taking the time to explain how medications work, provide guidance and assistance and going that extra mile to procure needed pharmaceuticals.

“Just those little things that we do every day, behind the scenes, which are all effectively funded in part by the current model.

“And now with changes to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, a significant portion of that funding is gone.”

Pharmacies and chemists provide an on-the-ground service with funding cuts expected to directly impact the level of care.

“Medication management via webster-paks is one of the main ways we help our patients stay-at-home and live independently,” said Cathy Henry.

Webster-paks provide peace of mind for patients and help improve medication adherence.

The packs are ideal for those who take multiple medications, with seven days of medicine organised to ensure that patients take the correct dose at the right time.

Both local pharmacies offer this invaluable service.

“This is just one service - much like vaccinations -

that we offer that is sustainable thanks to the current system of pharmacy that we have in Australia,” Cathy said.

“We are not sure how this will remain viable once 60 day dispensing is introduced, and what other services will be impacted.”

Cathy Henry is also concerned about the unintended and inevitable wastage of medicines.

“We see too much wastage already,” she said.

“I don’t like thinking of all those half-full, discarded medications that we send off for incineration now, having a second full pack attached to them in the future.”

Cathy also worries about the future ramifications of having additional packs of medication in the house.

“Will more medication misadventure and poisonings be additional consequences of these PBS changes?” she said.

“The potential for serious, impossible-to-manage, unintended consequences is huge.

“The lack of transparency and consultation with experts - people who would be best to manage it allsuch as the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia and the Pharmacy Guild of Australia does not inspire confidence.”

The speed of the roll-out is also of concern, especially as the planned changes

involve a total of 325 medicines, with pharmacists feeling very much blindsided by the initiative.

Whilst the federal government is downplaying shortages, pharmacists on the ground and in the community paint a different story and are justifiably concerned.

“Our number one concern however is having the medications our patients need on hand when they need them,” said Cathy.

“We work with an ‘ethical constraints list’ that the wholesalers provide, which is the wholesalers’ way of sharing medications out amongst all pharmacies, so that smaller and country pharmacies don’t miss out.”

Currently on that list are children’s antibiotic mixtures, adult antibiotics and medicine like Ozempic which is used to treat type two diabetes and Diltiazem which treats high blood pressure and angina, to name just a few.

Despite this the Mansfield Pharmacy struggles daily with the ‘out of stock’ list. “It’s time consuming, and not always with success at the end,” she said.

John Eisner reiterated this sentiment, explaining that the tenuous supply chain for many pharmaceuticals results in a portion of each work day simply being spent on guaranteeing supply.

He also confirmed that this situation is not limited to Mansfield, hearing the same story across the state and country from colleagues.

“Everyday we spend hours trawling suppliers to determine which brands of drugs are available,” John said.

“Every week is an unknown, and this is not a new problem with numerous PBS medicines in short supply, and substitutes not available.

“We have been contending with medication shortages for probably the last four to five years.

“The very real issue is that medication is either not available or that we are getting it at the very last moment.

“We have to chop and change through a variety of brands which is not ideal.

“It is confusing and potentially dangerous.

“At times medical practitioners have wanted to change a patient’s medication, but when it’s not available or in very limited supply, we have to determine whether we can manage their health using alternative pharmaceuticals and transition across when the medication becomes available.

“The current model enables us to do this, and go that extra mile to identify alternatives.”

John Eisner believes that

sixty day dispensing will only exacerbate shortages in the initial stages, with a surge in demand and a lack of resources to find substitutes and alternatives.

“We envisage the transition period will be particularly difficult, and we are worried,” he said.

The federal minister for health, Mark Butler however has downplayed concerns, stating that only seven of the 325 medicines available under the new scheme are experiencing supply shortages.

“This is not going to change the number of tablets dispensed in a given period of time,” he said.

“It simply means that people can get two boxes at a time, instead of having to get one box and come back twice as often.”

However whilst touting the financial savings for patients, Mr Butler also specified that he “wanted to see pharmacists delivering more services, more health programs, using all of their vast skills and training as health professionals for the benefit of their customers and their patients”.

But with financial cuts to every pharmacy’s bottom line, additional services and health programs don’t look like they will be viable anytime soon.

Federal member for Indi, Dr Helen Haines has met with pharmacists across the electorate to discuss their concerns regarding the change to 60-day dispensing for some medications.

Dr Haines encouraged the pharmacists to put their concerns in writing to the Health Minister Mark Butler and she would ensure that the letter is received.

“They brought a variety of perspectives on how the changes would affect their businesses and their customers,” Dr Haines said “It was a constructive discussion about the ways in which policies around pharmacy and medication dispensing generally affect the valuable community work pharmacists do, especially with our elderly residents.”

CONCERNS RAISED: The Pharmacy Guild of Australia and pharmacists across the country say the changes to pharmaceutical dispensing rules will impact the viability of their businesses.

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

1 What is timber, sawn into planks, boards, etc (6)

7 Which animal belongs to the pachyderm family (8)

8 Name a worldwide youth movement founded by Sir Robert Baden-Powell (6)

9 Name an international telecommunications satellite organisation (8)

10 Who, in classical mythology, is the god of darkness (6)

11 What are persons with flaxen or light-coloured hair called (8)

14 Name the ancient classical literary language of India (8)

18 What is something puzzling or inexplicable (6)

19 Who grooms racehorses in the stables (8)

21 Name a US short-story writer, novelist, and adventurer, Jack ... (6)

22 From which aircraft did the helicopter evolve, perhaps (8)

23 Name the author of “Animal Farm”, etc, etc, George ... (6)

DOWN

1 Which Nevada city is famous for its gambling casinos (3,5)

2 What are effusively laudatory advertisements found on the jacket flap of a book (6)

3 Which device introduces opposition into an electric circuit (8)

4 Which annual season precedes Easter (4)

5 To put aside for consideration, is to do what (6)

6 What is the Australian outback known as (6)

12 Where was Napoleon defeated by the British in 1815 (8)

13 What are shell fragments known as (8)

E-QUATIONS

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

15 Name a cavity in a bone, especially that in the maxilla (6)

16 What is comparative darkness (6)

17 Name a small European cyprinid fish (6)

20 Which term describes one who is precise in a self-righteous way (4)

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

BIYWORD

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.

CLUES:

Experimented (7)

Follower of moab (7)

Great (coll) (5)

Letter to the editor (3)

Number (3)

Revolt (5)

Rule (5)

Saloon (3)

Steal (3)

Swell (5)

SUDOKU

QUICK THINK

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

SOLUTIONS

Promoting spiritual, academic social and motional growth in children

ST MARY’S primary school last week celebrated Education Week along with other schools across the region.

St Mary’s offers students a high standard of education encompassing spiritual, academic, social and emotional growth, within a positive, supportive and contemporary learning environment.

St Mary’s value and believe in contemporary education and nurturing children through their primary school years.

“In a nutshell, we hope that you will see that we believe all children are entitled to a world-class education that prepares them for a world yet to be imagined,” said school principal Trish Etcell.

“With access to the latest educational research and armed with the most powerful learning tools ever invented, our dedicated teachers passionately and lovingly cultivate a learning environment that feeds and grows the hearts, minds and souls of every student in our care.

“It is a privilege to be part of the community and as Principal, each day I witness the love, commitment and hopes that each parent carries for their child,” she said.

“Parents are the first edu-

St Mary’s offers contemporary education in Mansfield ypy

ing and differentiated curriculum, in a supportive and caring environment, that is centered on the individual needs, learning styles and interests of the students.

“We are blessed to have a dedicated staff, supportive parents, a welcoming school and parish community, an engaging Parish Priest and friendly and cooperative students, who are interested in learning.

“As a Catholic school, we are committed to an education that is centered on the Gospel message of Christ.” She said.

“We work in unison with the Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS), parish leaders and parents, in promoting values and ideas that are central to our Christian beliefs.

cators of their children and it is they who are the consistent influence in their lives.

“We, as teachers, journey with you in supporting your child’s development by providing a safe learning environment.”

Ms Etcell said the school staff aim to work in partnership with you (the parents), nurturing your child’s development, and by taking a genuine interest in their well-being to guide, support and assist

their holistic development.

The teachers at St Mary’s School are professional, dedicated and resolute in ensuring that each child attains their full potential.

Co-operation, respect and shared responsibility are

values fostered throughout the school.

“Our learning and teaching are based on contemporary learning styles and resources,” Ms Etcell said.

“Teachers work collaboratively to plan an engag-

“As we are taking enrolments now for 2024, we invite prospective families to come along for a tour of our school, meet myself as principal and see for yourself, how we inspire children’s strengths and prepare them to flourish in a world yet to be imagined.”

Please contact the office on 5775 2670 to arrange a personalised tour at a time that is convenient for you and your family.

GROWTH & LEARNING: Students at St Mary’s Primary School, Mansfield gain knowledge on the environment and community based on individual needs in a caring environment.

North East regional news in brief

Red Rooster & Cold Rock face child employment charges

TWO high profile regional businesses face criminal charges in the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria over alleged breaches of the state’s child employment laws in the North East. Wage Inspectorate Victoria, the state’s child employment watchdog, has filed 355 charges against Red Rooster Wodonga.

They have also filed 124 charges against Cold Rock Shepparton.

“Victorians will be disappointed to see these household names facing allegations of breaching child employment laws,” said Robert Hortle, Commissioner of Wage Inspectorate Victoria.

“These are the type of businesses where many kids get their first job, so people rightly expect them to have a strong focus on creating a safe workplace for kids, which is what child employment laws help ensure.

“Kids under 15 don’t always recognise risks in the workplace and some don’t feel able to speak up when they feel unsafe.

“Child employment laws help ensure the employer understands the risks and puts measures in place to keep young staff safe.”

A statue for Sandy

THE 8th Indi Light Horse Heritage Troop joined hundreds of horses from light horse troops across the region for the unveiling of the Sandy the War Horse

statue at Tallangatta on Friday.

Sandy the War Horse, the trusty steed of Major General William Bridges, was the only Australian war horse to return from 136,000 sent to World War One and was bred at Old Tallangatta.

The life size bronze statue was made by sculpture artist Brett Garling and is set on a memorial platform in Tallangatta’s main street.

The event was commemorated over Saturday and Sunday with street markets, live music, silent auctions and other novelty events for families, horses and riders on show.

Alpine Shire snow resorts short on accomodation

SNOW season at the Alpine Shire resorts may look a little different this year, with a shortage of accommodation for staff causing a range of issues for local businesses.

Falls Creek Chamber of Commerce president Lisa Logan said COVID, the rising cost of living and the landslip on Bogong High Plains Road were among the causes of the lack of beds for staff

“The landslip put out 150 beds which is quite a big impact and the increase of value of holiday accommodation has meant owners are renting to holiday markets rather than staff,” she said.

“We know there are some larger employers on the mountain struggling to house all their staffing needs and part of that is also rental prices going up exponentially

Professional & Consultant business directory

following COVID.

“It’s now around $7000 a bed per person, just for renting for 16 weeks; a couple of years ago that was $5000 and only $3500 before that.

“Ironically this has been an issue for a number of years before COVID; we’ve been looking at a number of options in terms of building key worker housing on the mountain, both year round and seasonal, but because of the limited availability of sites or just time and cost of building, nothing will be a quick solution.

“We need governments to provide funding or streamline this process to get permits in place so we can get things moving a lot quicker.

“Hopefully, they’ll recognise these places as major destination locations and we need priority due to the influx of demand.

“We also want to appeal to property owners to consider providing rental

accommodation for staff so we can keep providing services people are used to; not only in the alps but places in Bright or Mount Beauty.”

Ms Logan said the lack of accommodation may affect the services provided over ski season.

“We might see some services limited and we’ll definitely need more patience from people because we won’t have the full compliment of staff,” she said.

“We also need to be mindful of flu and COVID still around so that will put additional impact with business owners already running establishments closer to home.

Mount Hotham Chamber of Commerce president Steve Belli said there is “next to nothing” for staff Mr Belli said there are already businesses that have closed for the season, and permanently, due to the issues raised.

Multi-agency response for missing man

AN 82-year-old Creswick man with dementia was reported missing in Bright last Sunday night, leading to a multi-agency emergency services response, but the man returned safely to his accommodation by himself.

The man and his wife went for a walk on the Canyon Walk along the Ovens River in Bright last Sunday afternoon, and according to Senior Sergeant Doug Incoll he went missing around 4:15pm when his wife was distracted.

Sen Sgt Incoll said emergency services, consisting of SES, police and Victoria Police’s Air Wing unit, searched for the man for around two hours, and were becoming concerned as night began to fall, however, the man was then reported as having walked back to his accommodation on Mystic Lane unharmed.

Another monitor to sort out Strathbogie Council

THE Victorian Government has appointed a municipal monitor to the Strathbogie Shire Council in response to concerns around governance and health and safety of councillors and staff Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne announced that Peter Stephenson has been appointed as municipal monitor until August 15, 2023, under the authority of the Local Government Act.

The monitor will examine why the council has been unable to resolve issues identified by the previous monitor, Janet Dore, over a 12-month appointment made at the request of the council.

Mr Stephenson will use his time over the next three months to assess the council’s ability to best serve the community and will report to the Minister for Local Government on any further action needed.

Mayor Laura Binks said, in appointing Mr Stephenson, the Minster was responding to serious concerns about governance and conduct raised with her by councillors, council staff and independent members of Council’s Audit and Risk Committee.

Mr Stephenson’s appointment is the second monitor to work with council during this term. The first, Janet Dore, finished her appointment in July 2022 and her report was provided to council in January 2023.

& Beauty guide

MARCHING ON: Shane Welch and Jarrod Toomer of the 8th Indi Light Horse Heritage Troop were in the parade of more than 200 horses at the unveiling of the Sandy the War Horse statue at Tallangatta.

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

property of the week

LAND BANK OR DEVELOP SITE (STCA)

A great opportunity to purchase this unique development site (STCA) offering prime exposure with 313 metre (approx.) Maroondah Highway frontage and 134 metre (approx.) frontage to Withers Lane.

Numerous options and uses to consider all of submission and approval. Transform the site into a sleek and bespoke Medical Centre complex, Hospital, Aged Care Centre, Childcare Centre, Service Centre with car hire and electric vehicle charging station, Indoor Adventure Centre, TAFE,

boutique accommodation, while there is also subdivision potential (all STCA). The property has water and power connected. Colourbond shed 18m x 7m (approx.) with 3-phase power, hot and tidied, and the existing house structure will be removed prior to settlement.

prominent with both Summer and Winter visitors. Located at the key gateway to Victoria’s High Country, enabling thousands of passers-by to access the site on a daily basis.

Williams Hunt & Bett

Whether

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Amanda Nieuwenhuizen 0407 770 548 / 5775 1444 amanda.n@nutrien.com.au

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For Sale By Expressions of Interest closing 12 noon, Tuesday 6th June if not sold prior. Note GST is applicable to this sale.

MANSFIELD | LOT 2A, 13B CUMMINS ROAD

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Positioned on the banks of Goulburn River with over 220m of your own river access. Two bedroom cedar home, currently operating as self-managed holiday rental “Scott’s Mist”. Shed approx 12m x 6m with power, concrete floor, separate studio/home office, pumping rights from river.

It’s okay to reach out for help

A NORTH East GP has noticed a rise in the number of farmers reaching out for support to assist their mental health, breaking through what can sometimes be a barrier.

Financial stress from inflation and high interest rates as well as loneliness due to geographic isolation are some of the major factors being voiced.

It’s akin to the latest national research that shows the decline in mental health of Australian farmers, with depression and anxiety becoming more prevalent following natural disasters such as flooding and failed crops.

The National Farmer Wellbeing Report commissioned by Norco (an Australian owned dairy cooperative) in partnership with the Na-

tional Farmers’ Federation (NFF), which surveyed 1338 farmers in February, found that 33 per cent of Victoria’s farmers reported a decline in their mental health over the past few years.

“In recent years, close to half (45 per cent) have felt depressed, with more than half (55 per cent) experiencing anxiety,” the report said.

Almost one in 10 (eight per cent) farmers said it was a frequent experience.

Rural doctors and other professional service providers are all too aware of the ongoing mental health issues in communities, such as Wangaratta and its surrounding towns.

Wangaratta GP Sean Warfe at Northeast Family Medicine said mental health is a major issue among farmers.

“We know from the Na-

tional Farmer Wellbeing Report there are some alarming statistics,” he said.

“Nearly half of the farmers have had thoughts of self-harm and suicide, and close to one in three of those have attempted self-harm or suicide.

“This means farmers are twice as likely to commit suicide compared to the general population.”

“I am now seeing more and more farmers coming forward with mental health issues.

“Many are finding life difficult with financial stress and loneliness being some of the major factors.

“But a lot of farmers find it difficult to come forward, due to personal reasons, like not wanting to appear weak, placing a burden on their family members or feeling embar-

rassed to ask for help.”

Dr Warfe said finding help locally can be difficult, as there is a major shortage of mental health workers and psychologists locally, which means we have seen patients met with longer waiting times to access services.

However, Dr Warfe said a new wellbeing group is opening up in the Wangaratta-Benalla-Mansfield area.

He said this is a direct result of the mental health issues in our area and has been funded to target this exact issue within our community.

“Other services I direct patients to have included Lifeline, Beyond Blue and Head to Health, as well as the local Mental Health triage service that can be contacted on 1300 104 211,” he recommended.

NFF vice president, David

Jochinke, a grain and livestock farmer in Victoria’s Wimmera region, said the wellbeing report highlights a sense of shame and stigma still felt by many farmers when talking about their mental health and urges governments and industry representatives to step in to overcome barriers providing mental health support.

“We’re also calling on all levels of government to urgently assess the resourcing they provide to farming communities as its clear their unique needs are not being met by existing services,” Mr Jochinke said.

Despite their struggles, the report said that almost two-thirds (60 per cent) of Victorian farmers remain optimistic about the future and viability of farming in Australia and believe farm-

ing is a rewarding career path for the next generation.

However, the research highlighted that more than three-quarters (77 per cent) of those surveyed believed the Australian public undervalues the nation’s farmers and their role.

If you or anyone you know needs help:

• North East Mental Health Triage Information 1300 104 211

• Lifeline on 13 11 14

• Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636

• Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467

• Headspace Wangaratta on 1300 332 022

• ReachOut at au.reachout. com

• MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978

• Head to Health at headtohealth.gov.au

WORKS STARTED: Goulburn-Murray

Water will be conducting its annual maintenance and capital program during the irrigation off season.

Winter water works to disrupt irrigation during off season

GOULBURN-Murray Water (GMW) has begun its winter works program.

The annual maintenance and capital program, held during the irrigation off-season from May 16 to August 14, will help to enhance the capacity of the channel systems that supply the irrigation network.

The total expenditure of the 2023 Winter Works Program will be about $10 million.

Infrastructure Delivery Services general manager Warren Jose said it would be a busy period for GMW.

“The annual winter works program is crucial to the business, as the maintenance and repairs we are able to undertake during this period have a significant impact on the irrigation season that follows,” he said.

“In the coming weeks, we will have more than 100 staff undertake various works, including channel bank and gate repairs, bridge works, desilting and weed treatment.”

Feral horses a threat to local species

IT’S claimed a range of critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable species are threatened with extinction by feral horses in the Australian Alps, according to the Threatened Species Scientific Committee (TSSC).

In a submission to a parliamentary inquiry into the impact of feral horses, The TSSC said feral horses are a threat to 12 vertebrate animals that occur in the Australian Alps, including frogs, fish, reptiles and one mammal.

The TSSC is an statutory body that provides independent scientific advice to the Federal Minister for the Environment regarding the conservation of threatened native flora and fauna.

According to the TSSC submission, six horse-affected species are in the highest category of threat; critically endangered, indicating high risk of imminent extinction; five are endangered and one is vulnerable.

Currently, at least 14 species

of vertebrate animals that occur in the Australian Alps have been assessed under the EPBC Act as being threatened with extinction.

Feral horses are documented as a threat to 12 of these - three frogs, four fish, four reptiles and one mammal.

According to the document, the impact of feral horses is one of several threatening processes that operate in combination to put species at risk, however, feral horses may be the crucial factor

that causes final extinction.

The report lists the example of Stocky Galaxias (a fish), which currently has an extremely restricted distribution due to impacts of introduced trout.

Feral horses are reportedly abundant in this area and trampling by horses is widening the stream, removing vegetation, and degrading water quality by addition of sediment; increased sedimentation is likely to smother the eggs of the Stocky Galaxias.

To allow these works to occur, channels will be dewatered throughout GMW’s delivery network.

Customers have been advised to plan ahead and ensure, if needed, they have alternate arrangements to secure their water during the period.

Mr Jose encouraged people to also be mindful of changed traffic conditions during the winter program.

“There will be an increase of traffic on backroads as heavy vehicles and equipment access our channels and properties over the next three months, so we ask that people take extra care on the roads during this period,” he said.

The program will be complete by August 14 to allow channels to be recharged and ready for the start of the 2022/23 irrigation season on August 15.

BRUMBY WORRIES: A range of critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable species are threatened with extinction by feral horses in the Australian Alps, according to the Threatened Species Scientific Committee (TSSC).

JUNE 10 - 12

King’s Birthday Weekend Celebrations

May

 MAY 27: Mansfield Farmers’ Market - High Street opposite the Post Office.

 MAY 27: Wolseley Hornet Show

N Shine: 9-11am - High Street opposite the Commercial Hotel. Showcasing the rare 1930 - 1935 Vintage and Post-vintage Wolseley Hornet Sports and Specials.

 MAY 28: RSPCA Million Paws Walk - Mansfield Botanic Gardens. A 3km walk to raise money supporting the fight against animal cruelty. Registration opens at 8:30am and the walk kicks off at 10am.

 MAY 28: Blue Tree Project Day: 11:30am - 1pm - Mansfield Golf Club. Positioning a blue tree to raise mental health awareness with a free BBQ, games for kids and live music with guest speaker Sarah McDonald from Canine Comprehension.

June

 JUNE 1: Mansfield Historical Society presents The Ride to Snowy River with Chris Stoney and Early Days in Barwite with Bill Griffiths - MACE: 7pm. $25 ticket includes light supper and refreshments. All proceeds go towards the Mansfield Heritage Museum fit out. Bookings essential.

MAY

Great Victorian Rail Trail. Races start from 8am. Register online.

 JUNE 4: Winter Twilight Concert: 5pm - St John’s Anglican Church. Featuring Mansfield and District Orchestra and String Ensemble and St John’s Choir. Entry by donation.

 JUNE 10: Mansfield Bush Market: 8am - 2pm - Highett Street.

 JUNE 10 - 12: King’s Birthday Weekend Celebrations - Mount Buller. A weekend full of activities and events to celebrate the 2023 season. Guaranteed skiing on Mt Buller from this weekend.

 JUNE 16 - 18: Mansfield Lantern Festival - Erril Street.

JUNE

Merton Hall 100 year celebrations Gala Dinner: 6pm11pm - Merton Memorial Hall. A celebration of a century of history at Merton Hall with live music by The Washboards. Tickets $25 via www.trybooking.com/1053658

 JUNE 22: Feast for Freedom: 6:30pm - 10pm - Uniting Church Hall. Rural Australians for Refugees Mansfield presents a dinner featuring Myanmar culture and food. Tickets $40 via www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1056354

 JUNE 26 - 30: Kids Week - Mount Buller. Kid-friendly activities on offer each day of the week at Mount Buller.

 JULY 2 - 9: NAIDOC Week. A free week long program packed full with activities, movies, art and more presented in collaboration with the Taungurung Land & Waters Council and Gadhaba Local Aboriginal Network.

 JULY 8: Shred for Chumpy - Mount Buller. The Mt Buller community comes together for a shred to remember Chumpy.

 JULY 13: Adams Ski and Golf DayMount Buller. An event for teams of four to enjoy the sporting attributes of skiing at Buller and playing golf in Mansfield whilst raising money for a worthy cause.

MANSFIELD ARMCHAIR CINEMA

Regular Events:

 CWA Monthly meetings: 4th Wednesday Evening or Sunday afternoon (alternating each month: March -Wed).

 CWA Craft Days: Wednesday’s 10am and last Thursday evening of the month at 6pm.

 CWA Op shop open: most days from 10am to 2pm.

 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 ClubMonday and Wednesday mornings from 9am till 12 noon, Lord’s Reserve, Cnr Victoria and Apollo Streets. Playing equipment available, $2 per session.

 Mansfield Multicultural Group - Every second Tuesday of the month at 6pm at MACE.

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

 Mansfield support group for carers and people with special needs - morning coffee, third Tuesday of the month, 9.30am The Witches Brew

 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.

 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 in the library (rear entrance)

 U3A meetings are held on 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month at 10am in The Delatite Hotel Meeting room.

f JUNE 4: Mansfield MarathonGreatVictorianRailTrailRaces

JUNE 17: Merton H lbtiGlD

Mansfield Farmers’ Market Mansfield Lantern Festival

27

16 - 18

Lights, camera, action in Jamieson

JAMIESON, the new Hollywood, is really strutting its stuff, with the local residents working as performers, extras and assisting in many areas, from providing accommodation to presenting cattle in different pastures, driving cast and crew to various destinations in the township, fo the new series being filmed called High Country.

The main street scape is being changed to keep the historical buildings in shotthe police station has change position and is at the post office and the general store signage is now the post office. Tomorrow, who knows?

The traffic controllers have worked very hard at times, diverting local residents, service providers and visitors to alternative entry and exit points.

JAMIESON ON THE LINE with Carmel Dixon

The film makers are appreciative of the cooperation from the local community and the harmony within the creative departments during the filming.

Last week there were 50 candle holding actors and extras at St John the Apostle church attending an evening memorial service onset.

This week Monday, Perkins street traders had a day off, as the filming was in the Jamieson Café, and the post office (police station) and the general store (post office).

RECENTLY a carers morning tea in Jamieson was held at the Courthouse

Hotel, a small group of carers attended this most informative session.

The hotel proprietors provided coffee and biscuits and a roaring log fire.

The aim of the discussion was to hear the needs of the carers.

Jason from Gateway Care conducted the session with great care; he encouraged the attendees to talk about their caring techniques that work.

Some of the carers had travelled distances from Woods Point and Tolmie.

It was very informal and informative, hearing how carers have access to coping tools, other tales of aloneness and the importance of not isolating, but sharing and accepting a friendly hand when offered.

The discussion was

invaluable; the Gateway Care group hope the Jamieson community will invite other carers who were unable to attend, to the next carers morning tea.

NEXT Friday, at 8:00am, the Heart Foundation walk fundraiser will be held.

Four Jamieson ladies in Karen Alderson, Janet Druce, Franzie Weiss and Michelle Jenson have been in training for weeks and will be competing as the ‘High Country Happy Hoofers’.

Some of the girls have completed this outstanding feat in past years and have raised thousands of dollars for the foundation.

To help the ‘High Country Happy Hoofers’ increase their funds a donation to www. coastrek.com.au would be appreciated.

The Hoofers have been training in their costumes, coloured fancy tights with a matching coloured ‘tulle tutu’.

Looks amazing - go Hoofers.

LAST week Jamieson primary school celebrated Education Week reading books and the students were encouraged to wear pyjamas, creating a bedtime reading theme.

Parents were invited to attend and help with reading many books.

It was a tremendous success as the students enjoyed the pyjama party and mum helping with hard words made all the difference.

The students’ normal classes were held prior to the reading period.

The staff at Jamieson

primary school recognised class teacher Kailyn De Munk and school manager Pauline De Bono, thanking them for their tireless input.

Congratulations.

NEXT Sunday at St John the Apostle church the service will be at 11:00am Fr George Feliciouz will celebrate Mass. All welcome.

NEXT Friday the students from Jamieson primary school have been invited by the production team of the High Country film being filmed in Jamieson at the momet to attend the filming. It is a generous offer and will be a great experience, for the students and the teachers.

An opportunity not to be missed, the experience will be something to remember.

Shining all the way to Rochester

ATTENTION all car enthusiasts - May 27 is your time to shine.

The Mansfield and Rochester Car Clubs have partnered with their local football and netball clubs to host a show and shine event, featuring some of the region’s favourite, fanciest, and finest vehicles.

The event will be held at the highly anticipated Eagles versus Tigers match at Rochester on May 27.

Mansfield Car Club member Paul Appleby will be barracking for the Eagles but simultaneously showing off his prized 1963 EJ Panel Van.

“We can park our cars and do the show and shine

and then go watch the footy or netball,” Paul said with a laugh.

“It’s going to be really nice.”

Paul said the event will feature a number of prize categories including the most coveted, Best in Show title.

“Our Rochester event is

open to everybody and anybody who thinks they have something special,” he said.

“You can enter any vehicle from any age.

“Our last show and shine we had a 1924 Ford and a brand new Maserati, so anybody is welcome.”

While the event will stoke up some healthy rivalry be-

tween Mansfield and Rochester, all funds will be donated to food relief victims.

“Rochester is a town that was basically wiped out during the floods,” Paul explained.

“They are getting back on track but they are still many people who are homeless and who are unable to ac-

cess their insurance.

“We really wanted to do something to help.”

The upcoming show and shine will have a $10 entry fee for any car submission.

Mansfield residents are welcome to meet at the information centre at 9:15 am on May 27 to travel together to Rochester.

EARTH

MANSFIELD PLANT

Ph: 5779 1733

Ben: 0400 877 582 Corey: 0409891 367 admin@alpinecivil.com.au 261 Deadhorse Lane, Mansfield

Information

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

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:

ZALDA KIRLEY

To enter call Radio Mansfield on 5775 2333

AGM MANSFIELD BOWLS CLUB

Administration Positions

Sunday, May 28, 2023 1pm in the clubrooms at 35-37 Ailsa Street, Mansfield.

All welcome!

Notice for AGM Rotary Club of Club at 6pm. 28th June 2023

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT

The land affected by the application is located at: 86-92 HIGHETT STREET MANSFIELD 3722

The application is for a permit to: Development of land for alterations and extensions to a Residential Aged Care Facility, and removal of Native Vegetation The applicant for the permit is: Sophia Motamed. The application reference number is: P054/23.

A decision on the application will not be made before: 5 June 2023.

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at:

The office of the Responsible Authority, Mansfield Shire Council, 33 Highett Street, Mansfield (during office hours) Online at www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/residents/buildingand-planning/public-notices

Scan QR code

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority. An objection must be made to the responsible authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.

The responsible authority must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.

If you object, the responsible authority will tell you its decision.

Kirsten Alexander Chief Executive Officer

AUTUMN AND SPRING

POULTRY AUCTION

Sunday, June 4, 2023 at the Euroa Showgrounds. 500 pen capacity.

Penning 8am-10am, sale commences 11am.

Bookings essential Payment cash or eftpos available

Metrys Auctions 0416 151 696.

Contact Georgie 0400 674 430 gmackcontracting@ gmail.com

Timbertop Campus

To obtain the Position Description and/or to apply for the above vacancies, visit the Employment page on our website: www.ggs.vic.edu.au/employment

Staff wanted

Delatite Steel and Industrial Hardware are seeking a full-time steel worker for immediate start. This position will suit a person with experience and knowledge in the steel industry. Monday to Friday with occasional Saturday work necessary. This is a customer service industry, so neat presentation and friendly demeanour preferable. Must be strong, fit and reliable with the ability to work in a fun, fast paced and ever-changing environment.

Forklift/truck license a bonus.

Above award wages, negotiable for qualified applicants.

Advertising Account Manager Full or Part Time Opportunity

matters Search for more jobs online.....

Leah Scott, Sales Manager, lscott@nemedia.com.au

Finding Call us today... Classifieds WORK! Classifieds Work! Phone: (03) 5723 0101 nejobs.com.au

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

Food And Domestic Services Assistants

Mansfield District Hospital

Do you have a passion for food or an eye for detail, an interest in supporting your community and want to be part of committed team, then apply now!

Position Type: Casual/ PPT

Closing Date: June 4, 2023 at 5pm

Position Description and application details: https://www.livehire.com/job/mdh/TG39P

Vacuum Truck Supplies

Floor and Bar Staff

We have staff heading back up to Buller for winter and to Europe for extended holidays so we need 2-3 more good people. Bring a good personality, work ethic and reliability. We’ll happily train you.

2 – 5 shifts per week, we can offer Call, come and have a coffee / chat, let’s see what could work.

Email: dean@thedelatitehotel.com.au or call 5775 2004

Mansfield’s Marketplace

GOODING, Hazel.

25-11-1936 - 19-5-2023

Loved Wife of Perrin. Mother of Kerryn and Brett. Grandmother of Nicole. Great grandmother of Gabby. Now at peace. Private Cremation.

POWELL, Anthony (Tony), and his loyal friend Mr Percy. Will be greatly missed by his friends.

TOYOTA Hilux SR5, 4WD, petrol, tray, 1981, reg (BBO864), excellent farm vehicle, no RWC, $4100. Call Rod 0439 839 228.

TRAILER

info@vacuumtrucks.com.au

KIA Serato 2016, auto, one owner, in good condition, reg (1HO3HB), 156,000km, $17,500 ono. Ph 0429 033 285.

MOBILITY SCOOTER

Want to buy a secondhand mobility scooter. Contact Bill 0429 950 749.

There are four positions available with an average of 35 hours per week and two positions available for an average of 20 hours per week. The hourly rate is $36.00.

2003 Ford Falcon XT BA Fairmont, only 170,000km, RWC, 5 month reg, (IJQ405), $5,500. Ph 0499 992 860. Bright.

HONDA Civic 2009, 40th anniversary, 144,000km, leather seats, alloys, in very good condition, reg (AAG703), $10,500. Ph 0428 871 803.

SUBARU Forester 2016, reg (1HF5BV), 280,000km country driving, service history, RWC, $15,000. Ph 0417 546 311.

CLASSIFIEDS - 5723 0101

CARAVANS & CAMPERS

Hours worked:

2014 Aussie

Ultra

~ From his friend Sonia.

MEMORIAL SERVICE

Celebration of Life

HUGHES, Betty J.

August 13, 1927 – May 25, 2021. Formerly of Tolmie.

1.30pm, Saturday, May 27, Violet Town Hall, afternoon tea provided.

Swag

Champions receive their trophies

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY

THE final event for the summer 2022/23 Mansfield Bowls Club’s season was held on Sunday with the presentations of trophies to club champions and club competitions.

Club president Ray Robinson welcomed everyone to the presentation day and thanked all club members for their participation in this season’s (which runs from September through to the end of April); also thanking the sponsors again for their support.

Match committee chairs, Marian Ryan and George Petersen introduced each of the events and announcing the trophy winners and runners up.

Results were:

Home Pennant winners: Marco Bohren, Kathleen Bock, Alan Dobson and Denis Sharpe; runners up:

Mick Walsh, Ian Morley, Belinda Snider, Elva Healy.

Home Pennant Most Consistent

Player: Kathleen Bock

Ladies Handicap Triples: Winners: Elaine Peterson, Glenda Revell, Lyn Holland; runners up: Irene Fuller, Enid Smith, Cathy Johnson.

Ladies Championship Triples winners: Elaine Peterson, Marian Ryan, Enid Smith; runners up: Kathleen Bock, Glenda Revell, Renee Prosser.

Men’s Championship Triples winners: George Peterson, Peter Roberts, Graeme Tyers; runners up: Mick Walsh, Nick Klein, Trevor Thompson, Peter McNeil (fill in).

Ladies Handicap Pairs winners: Lyn Foots, Lyn Holland; runners up: Glenda Revell, Yvonne Robinson.

Men’s Handicap Pairs winners: Ray Robinson, Alan Dobson;

runners up: George Peterson, Trevor Thompson.

Ladies Championship Pairs winners: Jenny Walsh, Lyn Holland; runners up: Lyn Foots, Enid Smith.

Men’s Championship Pars winners: John Foots, Noel Jackson; runners up: Rick Nichols, Nick Klein. Pike Pairs winners: Graeme Smith, Enid Smith; runners up: Marian Ryan, Steve Lewis.

Ladies 21 Up winner: Elaine Peterson; runner up: Lyn Foots.

Men’s 21 Up winner: George Peterson; runner up: Mark Bettany.

Ladies 100 Up winner: Yvonne Robinson; runner up: Lyn Holland.

Men’s 100 UP winner: Mike Harrison; runner up: Shane O’Brien.

Ladies B Grade Champion winner: Jenny Walsh; runner up: Vicki Klein.

Men’s B Grade Champion winner: Mike Harrison; runner up: Steve Lewis.

Ladies Club Champion winner: Lyn Foots (10th time club champion); runner up: Enid Smith.

Men’s Club Champion winner: Steve Spence; runner up: Steve Lewis.

Bowls wraps up

By LYN FOOTS

LAST Tuesday saw 17 players enjoying a wonderful day of bowls with the winners on the day being Pam Zierk-Mahoney, Tony Pridham and Christina Smith with 2 wins 33pts from George Peterson, Lyn Holland and Theo Scheltinga with 2 wins 32pts.

Last Friday saw a fantastic field of 26 players enjoying the sunshine with the winners on the day being Kevin Nikkelson, Sid Revell and Harry Smith with 2 wins 33pts from George Peterson, Irene Fuller and Ken Rainsbury with 1 win 22pts and Dom Diaz, Lyn Holland John Lobbe also with 1 win and 22pts.

Sunday saw the club presentation day with around 40 people enjoying a free BBQ lunch followed by the presentation of trophies to all of this season’s winners.

A big thank you to everyone involved with cooking the BBQ and making salads and also thanks to both match committees for organizing the trophies and for an outstanding year.

This Sunday is the Annual General Meeting in the clubrooms beginning at 1pm.

All Members are encouraged to attend.

Impressive Friday nights for junior football

By MICHAEL BRETHERTON

ANOTHER large crowd on Friday to witness the continued development of our footy stars of the future.

Andrew Rabson was a fillin coach for the night and did a terrific job with Jason Robinson and their Demon chargers.

Despite what the scoreboard showed, the team showed great willingness to work together as a team.

Alex Craddock played his best game for the year and the whole backline did an outstanding job.

Cody Place, Xavier Heasyman, Beau Anstee and Addi-

NORTH East Bushrangers

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

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

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

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

son Bertalli were all strong contributors behind the ball.

The Hawks welcomed two new players to their line up last week who instantly impressed.

Thomas Hood and Luca Fados shone in their new colours and were key players.

Cruz Heath and Ned Forrest were also prominent in a strong performance for the Hawks.

Eagles new recruit in Jack Jacob played a great game and hit the scoreboard while Hudson Hall continued his improvement.

Under rainy skies the under 12s took to the field with the Blues having a very

ROUND RESULTS:

competitive night with many players having their best games in the Blues jumper.

Nathan Mongelli and Tommy Richter were outstanding.

Harry Buscombe was strong in many contests and took a big pack mark to kick the Eagles’ first goal after some great passing from Levi Stevenson to hit Angus Parsons who found Buscombe in the goal square.

Zac Borg continues to dominate for the Blues while the mosquito fleet of Tom Forrest, Tom Dowell, Cooper Hunt, Hudson George and Paige Gridley did some great team plays.

The Bombers got away to a flying start with a great team effort.

Birthday boy Jack Clydesdale led from the front, resulting in goals.

Mitch Howe again impressed in the ruck , joined by Lachlan Roberts who was also a live wire up forward.

The Bombers backline was strong all night led by Jake Hoskin, Mannix Peck and Heath Martin.

Tyson Parks had a great game putting his body on the line.

Riley Sutherland again performed well, as did Heath Shevlin.

For the Eagles, Ashton

Prosser Angus showed great skills.

Reeve Purday was again prominent in the ruck and Sophie Snell had a great night.

Jay Kynnersley and Cooper Martin continued their good form and kicking several goals as did Eli Kain who was also dangerous up forward.

LAST Friday, the Hawks welcomed two new players to their line-up who instantly impressed.

Thomas Hood and Luca Fados shone in their new colours and were key players in many passages of play.

For the Eagles, Roy Mer-

cieca continued his great form, racking up possessions at both ends of the ground.

Trav Langlands was also strong, while Tom Steele kicked his first goal of the season.

In the under 12s, the Blues were a bit slow out of the gates, but once they started to get their running game and link up football it was a pleasure to watch.

The Bombers got away to a flying start with a great team effort.

For the Eagles, Angus Vasey had a great night along with Eli Kain in his best performance for the year so far.

U14 Boys 1 38 def by Ringwood 1 41

(Top Scorers: Keoni Anderson 14, Harris Kain 10, Sam Lupo 10)

U14 Boys 2 38 def by Whittlesea 4 44

(Top Scorers: Brock Buckland 15, Michael Moylan 8, Thomas Waite 5)

U14 Girls 1 44 def   Diamond Valley 2 37

(Top Scorers: Ella Mercieca 22, Lily Purss, Maisey Moscrop 5)

U14 Girls 2 15 def by Whittlesea 2 19

(Top Scorers: Kaity Ford 5, Ella Kennedy 4, Maria Hanley 2)

U16 Boys 1 53 def Camberwell 1 37

(Top Scorers: Owain Boyle 18, Jett Milligan 14, Blake Newton 9)

U16 Boys 2 48 def Melton 2 43

(Top Scorers: Sam Kain 16, Mateo Hanley 8, Harry Pople7)

U16 Girls 1 43 def by Casey 1 62

(Top Scorers: Lily-Anne McClure 12, Mekenzie Wood 9, Meg Evans 5)

U16 Girls 2 48 def Diamond Valley 5 42

(Top Scorers: Sophia Kotzur 21, Scarlett Mullavey 10, Elliana Gray 5)

U18 Boys 1 40 def by Bendigo 1 47

(Top Scorers: Lochlin Harvey 13, Frank Oguche 10, Coen Ainsworth 10)

U18 Boys 2 48 def by Bellarine 1 60

(Top Scorers: Harry Stripeikis 17, James Frazer 10, Bailey Allen 9)

U18 Girls 39 def by Diamond Valley 1 46

(Top Scorers: Jess Freeman 21, Niamh Moylan 10, Felicity Camplin 2)

YLM 76 def by Whittlesea 106

(Top Scorers: Jordan Birch 18, Matt Rennie 16, Jesse King 11)

U14

GIRLS 1 TEAM: BACK ROW (L-R):  Tristan Purss (Coach), Layla Graham, Phoebe Guppy, Scarlett Van Shaik, Ella Mercieca, Amanda Graham (Team Manager) FRONT ROW (L-R):  Annaliesse Gray, Maisy Moscrop, Minnie Humphry, Emerson O’Neill, Eloise Hudgson

ALL TOGETHER: Gathering for the final photo of the day were all trophy winners.

MATCH REVIEWS

Bombers beat King Valley in wet

UNDER 15S

By AMY CASH

Bonnie Doon 54 def King Valley 20

Best On Court - sponsored by BDFNC: Gemma Revell

Coaches Award - sponsored by David Walsh Gas: Amy Cash

IT was a very tough game against King Valley.

Luckily the rain held back for our game.

Charli, Keira and Tilly worked amazing getting in the goals and getting the rebounds if they missed.

Bella, Zara, Tayla and Gemma worked so well together keeping the opposition outside the ring and also getting the intercepts and rebounds needed to get the ball back into our attacking end.

Amy and Sadie worked well working the ball around the centre third and feeding the ball into our goalers.

All in all it was a great win and we are all looking forward for next week.

UNDER 17S

By DEMI MURRAY

Bonnie Doon 54 def King Valley 20

Best On Court - sponsored by BDFNC: Cobie McCormack

Coaches Award - sponsored by Mansfield Holiday Letting: Demi Murray

IT was a cold and wet start to the morning for the under 17 girls.

The rain made the court

slippery and hard to hold on to the ball.

But that didn’t stop us as we came out firing.

Charlotte and Emmeline worked nicely together in defence putting a lot of pressure on the King Valley shooters.

Stella worked around the ring well and made it easy for the mid courters to pass it into her.

Cobie did great holds and barely missed a goal.

Maddie in WD was great at keeping her opposition on their feet making them work hard for the ball.

Our mid-courters Demi and Casey worked the ball down the court feeding the ball smoothly into the shooters.

Second quarter Grace was in WD doing lovely on her opposition player and getting a lot of intercepts.

Chloe in WA was doing very well and her passes into the shooters were on point.

We are looking forward to the challenge of Whorouly next week.

B RESERVE

By MADDIE COOKSEY

Bonnie Doon 55 def King Valley 21

Best On Court - sponsored by Alpine Home: Michelle Tanner Coaches Award - sponsored by Lakeside Rise: Maddie Cooksey

IT was a cold and wet day for netball at Bonnie Doon on Saturday which made the Bres girls

have to warm up extra hard.

First quarter was a slow start finding our feet in the rain and needing to get some wobblies out the way.

With Chrissy out with soreness we had the talented Cass Turner step into GA and what a fine job she did.

Mich Tanner had great leadership all day and made sure those goals were going in beautifully.

Madi Hearman and Ace Clapham were doing a mountain of work in the mid court.

At half time we needed a rev up by the coaching team and needed to step it up a gear.

Defensively the girls switched roles brilliantly with Maddie Cooksey, Hannah Sheahan , Zoe Files and Narelle Seymour putting great pressure against the King Valley attackers and brought the ball down court well.

Lots of tips and intercepts made for some good turnovers.

The girls are looking strong and need to keep putting the skills and training into place on game day.

B GRADE

By STEPH EVANS

Bonnie Doon 52 def King Valley 30

Best On Court - sponsored by Greenway Lane: Jess Harris Coaches Award - sponsored by Lakeside Rise: Steph Evans IT was a very wintery day for netball on Saturday and the girls wanted to start strong.

OVENS AND KING SENIORS LADDER

With a great warm up and a goal to go out and do your own job, the girls did just that.

We welcomed back Casey for her first game of the season and she seamlessly slotted into the defence in without a problem.

With our big gun Webby off enjoying the sunshine, Casey filled her shoes perfectly.

Casey and Cass Mack looked like they had been playing together for years, they created many turnovers in the first quarter along with our award winners for the day Steph and Harris.

The defensive pressure all day was just too strong for King Valley.

Steph’s lethal asset of those long arms and over the ball pressure was a highlight in her game today.

Her WA struggled to feed all day.

Heading into the second quarter the girls had a nine goal lead but wanted more.

Jo and Armstrong had our highest scoring quarter with 16 goals to their seven.

They are starting to combine better and better every week and its showing.

The ball movement from Harris and Tara outside the ring created many opportunities for the attack in.

But their defensive pressure was strong this week which created many turnovers for the team to convert to goals.

Jess Harris had a ripper game both attacking with her strong feed, we got told to look

in and Harris let them rip. Our second half wasn’t the greatest netball we have played and the conditions didn’t help with a slippery ball at hand meaning we dropped off with some costly missed opportunities.

We still out scored King Valley in the second half but need to work on not just staying on top of teams but running over the top of them.

Well done girls we have had the most inconsistency with our team but are just starting to bring it all together nicely.

A GRADE

By PORTIA KEATCH

Bonnie Doon 58 def King

Valley 49

Best On Court - sponsored by Foodworks: Mia Tanner

Coaches Award sponsored by Lakeside Rise: Portia Keatch

AFTER last week’s devastating loss to Tarra, the A grade girls were determined to get the win against King Valley.

Despite the freezing weather conditions, each player was set on keeping possession of the ball and we aimed to score off every turnover.

With Anna and Erin (GK & GD) working tirelessly in the ring, their constant hands over the ball and movement throughout made for some nice intercepts and rebounds.

Tahlia’s (WD) defensive pressure and speed also allowed for some good intercepts which she then was able to help bring

the ball out of defence and into the attack end.

This then saw Shannon (C) and Mia (WA) working the ball quickly yet carefully into the shooters Portia and Steph.

Steph’s (GA) strong drives into the ring and ball movement made it that much easier for Portia (GS) to get onto the hold and shoot the ball.

At the end of the first quarter the scores were even, 13-13.

At the end of the second quarter Doon was down by three.

Half time came and so did a few position changes which now saw Mia in C, Shannon in WD and Tahlia in WA.

Mia’s speed and athleticism made for some amazing drives down the court, gaining many tips and intercepts along the way.

Tahlia in WA once again used her speed to get onto the ring which made for smooth passes into Portia and Steph.

Shannon in WD kept her hands up over every ball forcing it to be passed high which made for fabulous intercepts by the defenders.

The final quarter saw the same positions which proved to be working well as once the final buzzer went the score read 58-49 Bonnie Doons way. We would also like to thank Jess Harris and Cass McCormack for sitting on our bench this week and for their constant support throughout the game. Well done Bombers, bring on next week.

SCOREBOARD RESERVES RESULTS

WHOROULY

GOALS: MILAWA: Patrick Rattray 3, Xavier Ham 2, Harry Allan 1, Jack Bussell 1, Ben Clarke 1, Declan Joyce-Lawford 1, Luke Toohey 1, Steven Williamson 1. WHOROULY: Joshua Newton 2, Jack Lunardi 1, Lachlan Moore 1, Samuel Piazza 1. BEST: MILAWA: Ben Clarke, Liam Byrne, Aiden Bihun, Declan Joyce-Lawford, Liam Murphy, Xavier Ham. WHOROULY: Edward Bramich, Andrew Newton, Paul Glanville, Joshua Newton, Glenn White, Connor Crimmins.

BONNIE DOON

KING VALLEY

GOALS: BONNIE DOON: none selected. KING VALLEY: Aaron Cheong 2. Tomas Boustead 1, Bradley Collihole 1. BEST: BONNIE DOON: Jayjay Curtin, Joel Sanford, Morgan Evans, Zak Bailey, Matthew Hedin, Beau Smith. KING VALLEY: Sam Evans, Vincent Star, Tim Roman, Beau Wheeler, Tomas Boustead, Bradley Collihole.

NTH WANGARATTA 2.1 5.1 8.2 8.4.52

BRIGHT 4.1 7.2 10.4 17.6.108

Milawa ...................11.11.77

Whorouly ..................9.5.59

BEST: MILAWA: Daniel Larkings, Ned Turner, Dylan C Savage, Hamish Falla, Private Player, Jordan Friend.. WHOROULY: Matthew Harris, Daniel Harris, Marc Costenaro, Harrison Colville, Peter Sang, Nathan de Vries. North Wangaratta ......3.4.22 Bright ..................19.10.124

NORTH WANGARATTA: Luke Brown, Blake Marlborough, William Petersen, Corey Dagoli, Corey Petersen, Cameron McCormack. BRIGHT: Dylan Bursill, Tyler Thomason, Bailey Jennings-Allen, Sam Buckley, Beau Whitely, Aidan Parmesan. Tarrawingee ................1.3.9 Moyhu..................21.10.136

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

NETBALL SCORES

AGRADE:

Milawa 52 def Whorouly 26; Bonnie Doon 58 def King Valley 49; North Wangaratta 45 def Bright 28; Tarrawingee 68 def Moyhu 39, Goorambat 48 def Benalla All Blacks 33

BGRADE:

Milawa 67 def Whorouly 40; Bonnie Doon 52 def King Valley 30; North Wangaratta 57 def Bright 40; Tarrawingee 33 def Moyhu 29; Goorambat 29 def by Benalla All Blacks 56

BRESERVE:

Bonnie Doon 56 def King Valley 21; Milawa 50 def Whorouly 30; North Wangaratta 37 def by Bright 67; Tarrawingee 29 def Moyhu 21; Goorambat 17 def by Benalla All Blacks 53

CGRADE:

Milawa 16 def by Whorouly 40; Bonnie Doon 55 def King Valley 21; Nth Wangaratta 26 def by Bright 41; Tarrawingee 49 def Moyhu 29; Goorambat 33 def by Benalla All Blacks 38

UNDER15s:

Milawa 23 def by Whorouly 26; Bonnie Doon 20 def King Valley 12; North Wangaratta 28 def by Bright 36; Tarrawingee 19 drew with Moyhu 19; Goorambat 14 def by Benalla All Blacks 23

ROUND 9

SATURDAY, MAY 27

MOYHU VS GOORAMBAT

BENALLA ALL BLACKS VS TARRAWINGEE

WHOROULY VS BONNIE DOON

KING VALLEY VS NORTH WANGARATTA

BRIGHT VS GRETA MILAWA - BYE

GOALS: NORTH WANGARATTA: Tyler Nanson 5, Flynn Butterworth 1, Ryley Ely 1, David Killen 1. BRIGHT: Cooper Thomason 6, Myles Jamieson 5, Nick Lebish 2, Patrick Bren 1, Mason Cracknall 1, Samuel Dalbosco 1, Max Rampling 1. BEST: NORTH WANGARATTA: Ben Schulz-Dahlenburg, Adam Enever, Cooper Gracie, Preston Coleman, Timothy Wilson, Thomas Johnson BRIGHT: Max Rampling, Myles Jamieson, Samuel Dalbosco, Darcy Sholl, Harry Jamieson, Mikka Paulsen.

TARRAWINGEE

2.1 7.1 9.3 9.4.58

MOYHU 6.3 11.6 17.8 19.13.127

GOALS: TARRAWINGEE: Ethan Roach 4, Mitchell Holt 2, jeremy Lawford 1, Matt Seymour 1, Oliver Sharp 3. MOYHU: James Kelly 7, Ned Taylor 3, Charlie West 3, Liam Cook 1, Harrison Grant 1, Fraser Landgren 1, Jared Lea 1, Jett Roberts 1, Ethan Rooney 1. BEST:

TARRAWINGEE: Ethan Roach, Jarrod Everitt, Hugh Amery, Thomas Salmon, Joshua Smart, Mitchell Holt MOYHU: Harrison Grant, James Kelly, George Hearn, Liam Cook, Harrison McCarthy, Lukas Jakobsson.

GOORAMBAT

3.4 7.5 9.7 10.10.70

BENALLA ALL BLACKS 3.3 6.7 8.11 8.15.63

GOALS: GOORAMBAT: Aaron Blackburn 4, Kobe Black 2, Simon Briggs 1, Jamie Dunne 1, Samuel Gladstone 1, Bradley Simmons 1. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Joshua Hyland 4, Cody Crawford 1, Joel Eastwood 1, Jordan Smith 1, Regan Williams 1. BEST: GOORAMBAT: Jamie Dunne, Rick Walker, Kobe Black, Charles Hunter, Tim Colville, John House. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Jake Jones, Cody Crawford, Chelton Orchard, Kyle Collisson, Kieran Linke, Joshua Hyland.

TARRAWINGEE: Tyler Heywood, Tennessee Younger, William Styles, Brodie Hamill, Lukas Allan, Dan Hogarth. MOYHU: Leroy Dowling, Will Johnson, Caleb Bell, Jacob Beattie, Thomas Clough, Anthony Welsh. Goorambat .................0.3.3 Benalla All Blacks ......12.8.80

GOORAMBAT: Jack Williams, Peter Cochrane, Todd Haslam, Shaun Lemmer, Dallas Spencer, Brenton Doig. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: Jordan Dux, Brendan Moffatt, Dean Bradshaw, Alex Singline, Patrick Dunican, Jack Horsburgh. Bonnie Doon ...........12.15.87 King Valley ................1.6.12

Men’s golf semis success

By TOM SWAN

THIS past week has seen three days of stableford competition and the semi-finals of the Bill Reardon Memorial Trophy.

On Tuesday 25 players fronted the starter with some great scores being returned, indicating the terrific condition the course is in at the moment.

Compliments to Tony Cooksey and his grounds crew.

1st: Adrian Smith, 44 points (h/c 22); 2nd: Rob Fankhauser, 41 points (h/c 14); 3rd: Shane Brook, 40 points (h/c 15).

Both Rob and Shane came in thinking they were certainties to pick up the main prizes only to be knocked off by Adrian.

Shire students head to Yea to contest District

Cross Country

THE top eight place-getters from each race in the recent Division Cross Country will be heading to Yea this Friday to take part in the next level, District Cross Country.

With the nine and ten year olds running two kilometres, and the older students three kilometres, the whole shire will be wishing our young runners all the best.

9/10 year old GIRLS

1st Audrey Greco MRSSK; 2nd Olga Schierholter MPS; 3rd Miranda Ingpen MPS ; 4th Silver Purcell ST M; 5th Scout Gardner MPS; 6th Isla Rayfield Merrijig; 7th Macey Thornton MPS; 8th Matilda Slijkerman MRSSK

9/10 year old BOYS

1st Cooper Hoebergen MPS; 2nd Guilian Krsticevic MRSSK; 3rd Charlie Howie MPS; 4th Parker Darby MPS; 5th Roy Mercieca MPS; 6th Harvey Knight MPS; 7th Alastair Ross MRSSK; 8th Jude Macintosh MPS

11 year old GIRLS

1st Zali Hopkins MPS; 2nd Georgia Crowe MPS; 3rd Jade Withers ST M; 4th Paige Ridley MPS; 5th Edie Gardner MPS; 6th Arrie Turner MPS; 7th Sarah Ingpen MPS ; 8th Sophie Snell MPS

Adrian was a later starter and had a terrific score that was eight shots better than his handicap.

A special mention to Shane who has appeared in the prize getters over the last three weeks.

However, he has seen his handicap drop by quite a few shots as a consequence.

Thursday’s stableford round had a great field of 51 with once again a number of players bettering their handicaps which doesn’t often happen at this time of the year.

A Grade

1st: Bob Cullen, 41 points (h/c 16) on a countback; 2nd: Steve Chisholm, 41 points (h/c 13); 3rd: Peter Vallance, 38 points (h/c 8) on a countback.

B Grade

1st: David Wilson, 38 points (h/c 24); 2nd: Geoffrey Morris, 37 points (h/c 18); 3rd: Nick Jones, 36 points (h/c 23) on a countback.

Well done to Bob who seems to be making a habit of beating Steve in countbacks.

Peter Vallance, fresh off winning the Division 2 handicap pennant player of the season continued his golden run with another great round bettering his handicap.

Saturday’s competition was played in cold and damp conditions with 39 playing, with scores being very close.

The first five players were all within one stroke of each other, so the countback system was used to determine the placings

1st: Fred Rogers, 37 points (h/c

25); 2nd: Peter Vallance, 36 points (h/c 7) on a countback; 3rd: Maurice Walsh, 36 points (h/c 9) on a countback.

Nice to see Fred back on the winners’ step with Peter continuing that run having lost a shot on his handicap after Thursday’s round.

The super consistent Maurice Walsh once again featuring after another very steady round.

A mention to Ian Jones who missed getting his first hole-in-one by a mere three inches.

On Sunday the semi-finals of the Bill Reardon Memorial Trophy were played with Rod Sargent beating Paul Lange 6 and 4 and Mark Jones beating Ian Jones 1 up.

The final is scheduled to be played next Sunday over 27 holes.

Steady week for ladies golf

By MARION MITCHELL

AFTER a previous busy week, only five ladies played the Tuesday ninehole stroke competition. Linda Brook won with a great nett 44 followed by Jenny Koraus with 52. Wednesday saw 26 ladies playing a stableford competition off the gold tees.

We had to rethink our game and clubs for this.

Some enjoyed the change and others were a bit challenged.

No problem for Kylie Egan winning A Grade with 36 points on a countback to Millie Cumming and Andrea Marsden placing third.

Marion Sargeant certainly had no problem scoring a golden 38 points to win B Grade and the day.

Jenny Koraus not far behind with 37 and Marg Franke-Williams on a countback in third place with 35.

Line balls went to Lorraine Wilson, Lyn Holland, Louise CalvertJones, and Jaquie Smithwick.

Nearest the pins were Sam Bailey on the 3rd, Lyn Poulson on 7th, Susan Kinloch on 9th, Jenny Koraus on 16th, and Andrea Marsden on 18th.

A team of Linda Brook, Sheryl Sargent, and Marg Franke-Williams played on Thursday for the Bowl at Hill Top, Tatura.

Unfortunately, they were pipped on a countback for the Bowl.

11 year old BOYS

1st Zac Borg MPS; 2nd Angus Vasey MPS; 3rd Will Hewitt MPS; 4th Jack Forrest MPS; 5th Hamish Brown MRSSK; 6th Harry Buscombe MPS; 7th Lincoln Hall ST M; 8th Will Friend MPS

12/13 year old GIRLS

1st Rachel Mercieca MPS; 2nd Lexie Meek MRSSK; 3rd Rowena Creighton MPS; 4th Dekoda Beekman MPS; 5th Mya Cios ST M; 6th Josephine Taylor MPS; 7th Lily Adams ST M; 8th Indi Currie MPS

12/13 year old BOYS

1st Jack Clydesdale MPS; 2nd Lachlan Roberts MPS; 3rd Ben Ross MRSSK; 4th Thomas Dowell ST M; 5th Trenton Bowen MRSSK; 6th Owen Hurle MPS; 7th Billy Turner MPS; 8th Oscar Pigdon ST M

Mansfield teams struggle against visitors

By RHONDA CARPENTER

THE three Mansfield teams welcomed visitors on a glorious autumn day in Mansfield last Monday.

Mansfield Blue were grateful to Terip who travelled across relocating their home match to enable a contest.

Mansfield Red hosted Moglonemby’s Deb Seach, Judy Sands, Robyn Johnson, and Lyn Johnston who found the groomed courts to their liking and didn’t let Red get a look in.

Jo O’Brien, Carolyn Murray, Deb McCormack, and Loretta Armitage all toiled away for Red, but Moglonemby took every set, 48 games to 14.

Mansfield Blue’s Michelle Pigdon, Emily Dirksen, Jill Breadon and Sophie Yencken were right in it against Terip, unlucky to lose both openers 5-8 and 6-8.

Terip’s Francis Lawrence, Bec Lyttle, Phoebe McDermid and Jenny Martin edged Blue out in five of

the sets, but Michelle and Sophie snagged one in a tiebreak.

It was a long even match with Terip taking the win 5-1, 47 games to 32.

Mansfield Black were up against newcomer Seven Creeks in an equally long and engaging contest. Black’s Rhonda Carpenter and

Jenny Smith took their opener 8-1 but Seven Creek’s Rowena Ellis and Rosie Cameron took theirs 8-5.

The next sets were also split each way, with the double Jenny combination finding their rhythm to win 8-2. Rowena and Kerry Hewlett took theirs 8-4 for the visitors.

The final sets were again split when Rowena and Triona King won 8-3 and Jenny Bell and Rhonda outlasted Rosie and Kerry.

But Black somehow wove their magic and fell across the line by four games, 3 sets all, 36 to 32.

Over in Benalla the home side welcomed Euroa’s Sue Vaughan, Chris Ellis, Lyndall Bigland, Jenny Tehan and Lyn Pierce who was returning from time away.

Euroa were convincing against Benalla who had even recruited one of the opposing players, Julie Harrington, for their team.

Bev Gill, Maureen Jewell, Deb Siggers and Julie fought hard all day.

Bev and Deb were able to secure one set 8-5 for the home side.

Euroa won 5-1, 45 games to 20 on a beautiful day in the sunshine.

Ladder: Moglonemby 19, Euroa 19, Terip 16, Benalla 11, Mansfield Black 8, Seven Creeks 6, Mansfield Blue 1 Mansfield Red 0.

Linda Brook however won B Grade with a fantastic 40 points. Well played team and a great representation for Mansfield.

On a cold Saturday, a good field of 15 ladies played the stableford competition.

Lyn Poulson came away with the win on 33 points, Marion Foster second on 32, and Patsy Smiles.

Line Balls were earnt by a visitor Dianna Wtttey and Kylie Egan.

Patsy also had nearest the pin on 3rd and Kylie on 16th.

To finish the week, the semi-finals of the Bill Reardon Matchplay were played on Sunday.

Shelly Comerford won over Lorraine Cullen and Robyn Baker won over Jenny Koraus.

Well done to all for qualifying and good luck to Shelly and Robyn for next week.

Also good luck to the ladies playing on Wednesday with only four clubs, and on Thursday for those playing in the Strathbogie Bowl.

RED-Y TO GO: (From left) Karyn Fraser, Carolyn Murray, Jo O’Brien, Deb McCormack, and Loretta Armitage played in perfect conditions.

PHOTO: Robyn Johnson

OFF TO DISTRICT: Scout Gardner came fifth, with Macey Thornton seventh, Miranda Ingpen third and Olga Schierholter second in the nine to ten year old category.

From little things big things grow

By EMMA OLIVER

HIGHLINE is a multi-discipline mountain bike festival - four massive days of adrenalin-soaked thrills and spills - that takes place in Mansfield in March every year.

This year was Highline’s third, with the event already boasting a significant national and overseas following despite its relative infancy.

Previously as a mountain bike rider in Australia if you wanted to showcase your talents or consider competing, overseas was your only option.

This grass-roots festival on a domestic stage set

about changing this, bringing freeride and gravity culture to the High Country.

Shannon and Narelle Rademaker are the driving force behind Highline, and it is their unwavering commitment and passion to the industry that developed a lowkey jump jam into a four-day spectacular.

Highline’s humble beginnings date back to 2018, with a contained jump jam on the toboggan course at Mt Buller.

“It was the prime location for riders to execute tricks and showcase their skills, and as it was the opening weekend we drew quite a crowd of spectators,” said

Shannon.

“There were only about eight riders at that event, primarily friends and colleagues who trained and

kicked around together on their own backyard set-ups.

“We had one jump and a couple of kickers, and it was a great weekend.

F TY TIPPING COMPETITION

2023

Sydney St Kilda

Melbourne

Geelong Western Bulldogs West Coast Richmond

Collingwood

Brisbane

TIPSTER: Helen Haines

INDEPENDENT FEDERAL MEMBER FOR INDI helenhaines.org

117 Murphy Street Wangaratta 03 5721 7077 helen.hainesmp@aph.gov.au

Authorised by H. Haines MP 117 Murphy Street Wangaratta 3677.

Last Week: 7 TOTAL: 50

Carlton St Kilda

Melbourne

Carlton St Kilda

Melbourne

Geelong

Western Bulldogs

Essendon

Richmond

Collingwood

Adelaide

TIPSTER: Kate Armstrong

5762 6822

admin@dosserpanels.com.au 90 Bridge St W, Benalla

Last Week: 6 TOTAL: 60

Sydney St Kilda

Melbourne

Sydney St Kilda

Melbourne

Geelong

Western Bulldogs

Essendon

Port Adelaide

Collingwood

Brisbane

“Initially, it was just a bit of fun and an opportunity for our local riders to get out there put on a show.”

The success of the event and the positive feedback inspired Shannon to put it on again in 2019, re-building the course, going bigger and better, and incorporating a proper drop start and four features.

In 2020, Mt Buller ceased to be an option and the Rademakers began to consider alternative locations off-mountain.

It was the panoramic views that drew Shannon and Narelle to Blue Range, a private property minutes away from the Mansfield

town-centre, when they first started scouting a location for their festival in 2020. And it was the unerring belief in the vision by landholders Louis Van der Heyden and Tamara Watson that then made the festival a reality.

Read all about the Highline Mountain Bike Festival, and how a small jump jam evolved into an internationally renowned competition drawing interest and competitors from across the country and the globe. Article in the current edition of North East Living, available from the local newsagency and supermarkets.

ROUND 11

Sydney Swans vs. Carlton

St Kilda vs. Hawthorn

Melbourne vs. Fremantle

Geelong Cats vs. GWS GIANTS

Gold Coast SUNS vs. Western Bulldogs

West Coast Eagles vs. Essendon

Richmond vs. Port Adelaide

Collingwood vs. North Melbourne

Adelaide Crows vs. Brisbane Lions

Sydney St Kilda

Melbourne

Geelong

Western Bulldogs

Essendon

Port Adelaide

Collingwood

Adelaide

TIPSTER: Sam O’Brien

TIPSTER: Steve (Groucho) Marks

Open 7 Days

47-51 High Street, Mansfield Ph 5775 2014

Last Week: 8 TOTAL: 60

Sydney St Kilda

Melbourne

Last Week: 5 TOTAL: 62

Sydney St Kilda

Melbourne

TIPSTER: Cameron Hotton

Geelong Western Bulldogs Essendon Richmond Collingwood Adelaide Shop 5/165 Mt Buller Road Mansfield 03 5775 2123

Last Week: 7 TOTAL: 63

Sydney St Kilda

Melbourne

Geelong Gold Coast

West Coast

Richmond

Collingwood

Adelaide

TIPSTER: Jenny Gould

Geelong Western Bulldogs Essendon

Port Adelaide Collingwood Brisbane

TIPSTER: Cindy McLeish

Cindy McLeish MP State Member for Eildon (03) 9730 1066

PO Box 128 Yarra Glen 3775 cindy.mcleish@parliament.vic.gov.au

Last Week: 7 TOTAL: 61

Carlton St Kilda

Melbourne

Geelong Gold Coast West Coast

Port Adelaide

Collingwood

Brisbane

TIPSTER: Sam McDougall

McGrath Mansfield 03 5775 2437

Geelong Gold Coast

Essendon

Port Adelaide

Collingwood

Adelaide

TIPSTER: Dion Theodossi

Geelong Western Bulldogs

West Coast Richmond Nth Melbourne Adelaide

TIPSTER: Pat (Bull) Smith

3 Chenery St, Mansfield Phone: 5775 1992

Last Week: 6 TOTAL: 58

Sydney St Kilda

Melbourne

Geelong Western Bulldogs Essendon Richmond Collingwood Adelaide

TIPSTER: Andrew Marshall

www.mansfieldfoodworks.com.au

Last Week: 8

TOTAL: 61

Last Week: 7 TOTAL: 52

FOOTY TIPSTER LADDER

TIPSTER TOTAL:

Cameron Hotton .........................63

Stephen Marks ...........................62

Andrew Marshall .........................61

Cindy McLeish .............................61

Sam O’Brien ..............................60

Kate Armstrong..........................59

Dion Theodossi ..........................58

Sam McDougall ..........................56

Jenny Gould ...............................53

Pat (Bull) Smith .........................52

Helen Haines ..............................50

ON TOP OF THE WORLD: Shannon Rademaker, along with his wife Narelle, is the driving force behind Highline Mountain Bike Festival.

Eagles u18s fall to Shepparton

By DAVID HOLLIDAY

AFTER a very stressful week trying to put together a team we went from having 11 fit and available players on the Tuesday to having 21 by the Saturday to face off against Shepparton last weekend.

The schoolboys decided to all come back and a few old familiar faces also decided to pull the jersey on and help us out.

We went into the weekend having trained super well and with the confidence we could cause a bit of an upset and at least be competitive with the much improved bears.

Along with our contingent of under 17s that have been helping out all year, we lined up against a very tall and well-structured team.

The first quarter we started okay with the young mids holding their own and the backs again fantastic under waves of pressure from the Bears.

A few sneaky goals from their mids and maybe our forwards not quite pressing up enough allowed them to get a few goal lead going into the break.

After a few small adjustments they headed back out but the Bears had settled into their rhythm and their older bigger bodies in the

midfield really started to get on top of us.

They skipped away to have a five goal lead at half time.

The boys were still getting their hands dirty but the class and structure of the bears was too good for our inexperienced side.

After the main break we decided to sure up our backline to stop the flow of goals and was hoping to pinch one or two the other way to get close, but again the bears where just too well drilled and structured around the ground.

We found it nearly impossible to get anything going.

The forwards were working tirelessly but were just

unable to get enough to close the gap.

With the spare man in defence we slowed their scoring enough to even the quarter which was a fantastic effort from everyone.

In the last we kept toiling away and not one boy dropped their head even in the face of our biggest loss in two years.

You can’t fault the effort these boys put into every game and they kept fighting till the very last siren which for me was the most important thing.

Our backs again were fantastic and the mids probably got outplayed but Will

Friday continues to impress and Jack Marks and Hunter Reeve showed great signs under the immense pressure from the Bears.

Archie Storer was the pick of the forwards with another four goals in what was a quiet day for most of them.

Dylan Lowery competed all day all over the ground in a runner up best on ground performance.

It was a good lesson for our boys but under the circumstances I couldn’t be more proud of the intensity and fight they showed.

We limp into the interleague break knowing five or six boys will come back from

More to come from cycle club

By SAMUEL O’BRIEN

THE Mansfield Mount Buller

Cycle Club is getting younger.

That’s according to Vice President Bruce Halket who has enjoyed watching younger riders get involved in the sport locally.

“Getting juniors involved is good for the future [of the club],” he said.

He admits that the club has been a big stagnant numbers-wise but is confident that the club is building a good foundation for expansion.

“I wish we were [growing], but we’re going in the right direction,” Bruce said.

The club has had a busy year with plenty of competitions, social rides and events getting all members involved in a variety of ways.

Through their mountain biking on a Tuesday night and road riding on a Thursday, Bruce has seen members embrace their motto as a “social club with a cycling problem”.

There have been plenty of highlights for the club too, with Talia Appleton, who will represent Australia in Glasgow for the World Championships, making a few visits up to ride with the club.

Bruce also pointed out that many other members have made

strong representations of the club on a variety of levels.

“We’ve got three junior girls who have represented Australia in the last 12 months,” he said.

“Ruby Dobson is currently overseas racing cross country mountain bike in Europe and will represent Australia in August at Glasgow.

“Elise Empey, who was until recently he was the Australian Junior downhill champion, is going overseas to Europe to race the northern summer as well.

“Talia Appleton recently came

second in the Grafton to Inverell Cycle Classic and won the Junior Oceania championships in Brisbane two months ago.

“The junior girls are really coming along and we’re hoping some junior boys are going to do something similar in the not too distant future.”

There will be four riders from Mansfield at the World Championships this year, with Bruce admitting variety is key to their success.

“Our members are racing a lot away from Mansfield, getting more experience and bet-

ter at competitions,” he said.

Looking to the future, Bruce is hoping to get more social riders involved in the club when it comes back in October.

“We’ve been concentrating on racing recently,” he said.

“We want to concentrate more on social and recreational rides to appeal to more people who aren’t involved at the moment.

“Maybe one day down the track they can get involved in racing.

“That’s one thing where we realised we have to shift our focus.”

injury and we can start getting a full strength team on the park.

We again thank the under 17s for always helping out and both coaches have been incredible supporting our team.

To the schoolboys who all jumped on the bus Friday night to play, we thank you.

Overall Mansfield 6.7 (43) was defeated by Shepparton 13.8 (86)

Goals: Archie Storer 4, Riley Northcott, Cody-James Turner.

Best: Lachlan Pentony, Dylan Lowry, Benjamin Reardon, Andrew Thomson, William Friday.

Interleague victory slips through GVL’s hands in thrilling footy match

■ From back page Returning as last year’s victors, the O&M team were ready to fight. They delivered a top quality match, but ultimately fell 36-39 in a close affair.

The GV led by six goals at the first break but the O&M closed the margin to just one at three-quarter time.

But GV were not willing to concede and stormed home to win the game.

No Mansfield players were on the team for the game.

Goulburn Valley’s Sarah Szczykulski was named best on court.

The 17 and under side could not overcome their powerful opponents and lost 42-57.

LEAPS AND BOUNDS: GVL’s Bryce Stephenson was in top form.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

Bombers bounce Kangaroos

By SAMUEL O’BRIEN

THE Bonnie Doon Bombers showed their might against King Valley over the weekend with an impressive 67 point home win in slippery conditions.

The game started strong, with the Bombers’ defence not even letting a point in in the first quarter, allowing the forwards to capitalise and create an early lead.

Bombers coach Ken Murray noted the early pressure was an important strategy, saying, “We wanted to make sure we were able to take some momentum into the second quarter.”

In the second quarter, the Bombers continued to dominate, putting away six goals and four points while the Kangaroos could only manage two goals.

The Kangaroos fought back in the second half, managing to stall the stronger side from continuing to score as much but failing to score critical goals to bring the game back into contention.

The fact that the Kangaroos were fifth placed on the ladder before the game did not escape Ken and he was expecting pushback from the visitors.

“Fifth is a playing finals position,” he said.

“They came at us for a period of about five minutes [in the third quarter] and then we took control again and we were able to steady and pull away.”

The final quarter saw Bonnie Doon bring it home, pulling off another four goals and three points to finalise the score at 13.15 (93) against King Valley’s 4.2 (26).

Ken said it was a successful game, with plenty of highlights despite the less than ideal conditions.

“Some of the pressure acts were really good,” he said.

“It was wet early on and the field was an extremely slippery surface.

“That just clogged up people’s boots and they were skating around everywhere.

“That made it really tough for turning and changing direction.

“I think the boys were able to adapt to that successfully.

“It was a good even performance.”

The reserve side 12.15 (87) also beat the Kangaroos 1.6 (12), putting in an impressive effort in the second half to make sure the visitors didn’t gain a single point while building a substantial lead.

Interleague victory slips through GVL’s hands

By HANNAH KENNELLY

THE Goulburn Valley has lost the Ash-Wilson Trophy in a bittersweet match against the Ovens and Murray during the interleague round on Saturday afternoon.

The close clash could have gone either way, with both teams fighting hard until the final siren.

The O&M team initially appeared the obvious victor, leading the first quarter by five goals.

However, the GV players

mounted a fierce second quarter comeback, booting several goals which left their hosts reeling.

By three-quarter time, the GV squad was leading by two points and looked to secure that elusive Ash-Wilson trophy.

Midfield effort and several mighty contests saw the GV team cruise away, 15 points ahead in the final quarter.

Two crucial goals by brilliant O&M player Riley Bice shifted the last minute momentum back to the hosts, who stormed home to

win 13.14 (92) to 13.7 (85).

Congratulations to Ben Christopher, Frazer Dale, Lachlan Murphy-Dale, and Harry Mahoney from the Mansfield Eagles seniors who represented GV.

The GV U18s also suffered a tough 59-point loss in their battle against the O&M.

The GV team looked to be in trouble during the first quarter, facing a six-goal deficit from their top form competitors.

However, the GV pushed back and kicked 10 goals

within the second quarter.

But the O&M’s consistent defence proved too strong, with the hosts triumphing 13.11 (89) to GV’s 4.6 (30).

Max Mahoney, Ben Reardon and Lachie Pentony proudly represented Mansfield in the U18s.

Despite little success on the football field, GV was able to claim victory on the courts.

The GV open netballers triumphed over the O&M in a close clash over the weekend.

■ Continued page 35

HOW HIGH CAN YOU GO?: Mansfield’s Frazer Dale showed his athleticism at Saturday’s interleague match.

PHOTO: Melissa Beattie