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SERVING THE ALPINE SHIRE Wednesday, August 6, 2025

edit.timesobserver@nemedia.com.au

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Events share in shire funds

Page 5

ENVIRONMENTAL ENTHUSIASM More than 40 volunteers helped plant native trees and grasses around Apex Lane in Myrtleford on Saturday. Story page 2

Saints in red hot form

PHOTO: MDLSG

SPORT

Please, our Op Shop is not a rubbish drop-off Volunteers at the Myrtleford Hospital Op Shop (MHOS) are appealing to community members to stop using their premises as a rubbish dump. MHOS president Lorraine Piazza said in recent weeks there have been a disturbing number of donations including broken items or outright rubbish left at the premises, which impedes the charity’s ability to raise funds for the hospital and the community at large. “It’s costing us a lot of money to get rid of the broken items dumped at the shop,” Ms Piazza said. “The main issue is people who dump items after hours. “I totally understand, peo-

BY PHOEBE MORGAN

pmorgan@ nemedia.com.au

ple are struggling and it costs money to go to the tip, but we’re trying to raise money for both the hospital and the community and this issue is impacting our ability to do so. “One thing people might not know is we’re not able to accept any furniture items... we just don’t have the space. “Even little coffee-tables... the furniture will end up filling our skip. “Highchairs which are broken and pushers which don’t roll properly have also been donated in the past.

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“We appreciate everything people donate and 99 per cent of people’s donations are really good, but if it’s not good enough quality to wear or if it can’t go on the shelves, it’s no good to anyone.” Volunteer, Margaret Prior said the Hospital Op Shop is able to put tens of thousands of dollars back into the community every year. “The Myrtleford Hospital Op Shop is a huge resource for the community,” she said. “Two-thirds of the money raised on site is donated to the hospital and the other third goes to the rest of the community through grants and so on. “We’re all volunteers and

people would be surprised to learn how much we do for the community through the Myrtleford Hospital Op Shop.” The MHOS team of volunteers are imploring the community to heed the multiple ‘No Dumping’ signs on the shop’s windows and doors, to prevent the issue from occurring again. The MHOS is closed on Sundays and Mondays, but open 10am to 4pm from Tuesdays to Fridays and 10am to 1pm on Saturdays, for volunteers to accept donations in person and for visitors to find something to add to their homes or turn into a gift.

‘DONATION’ DUMP: MHOS volunteers (from left) Margaret Prior, Grace Rinaudo, Myrna Canning and Lorraine Piazza urge donors to keep up the charitable spirit by dropping items off during opening hours. PHOTO: Phoebe Morgan

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Page 2 - THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025

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Native tree planting days a boon for Myrtleford wildlife By PHOEBE MORGAN The Myrtleford and District Landcare and Sustainability Group hosted successful tree-planting days last week, in honour of National Tree Day, working with almost two dozen Marian College students on Friday and more than 40 community volunteers and Scouts on Saturday. The MDLSG planting sites centred around Apex Lane, the road and bike path which leads into Apex Park. The Alpine Shire had previously removed a copse of weedy trees including privet, Hawthorne and blackberries along the roadside, which were less than desirable in their location and environmental impact. The area was then mulched to suppress any regrowth from last year, making the site ready to replant during last week’s workshops. “In total over 300 trees and shrubs were planted, with another 200 grasses,” MDLSG president, Paul Reser said. “For aesthetic reasons and as a boost to native pollinators, it was decided to replant the area with 10 different species of wattles, from tree size down to shrubs and then border the planting with a number of native grasses. “Once grown, the wattles will progressively bloom in the early months of spring

providing an attractive welcome to the park and Mosaic Trail. “We did all wattles so in spring they’ll bloom and herald the change of season for the high country. “On the Friday, 20 Marian College students plus staff from the Alpine Shire Council ‘open spaces’ crew and Landcare volunteers started off the planting with wattle trees such as Silver Wattle, Blackwood and the iconic local native, the Ovens Wattle. “Saturday morning saw 40 additional volunteers arrive for National Tree Day to finish the planting, putting in shrubs such as Gold Dust Wattle, Varnish Wattle and Red Stem Wattle among others. “The border was planted with native grasses such as Tall Sedge, Weeping Grass and Snow grass. “Children from the local Scouts were among those planting and then placing stakes and tree guards to protect the newly planted trees, shrubs and grasses.” Landcare members concluded the afternoons by hosting a barbeque in Apex Park to thank all those who participated. Later this year, Landcare will be hosting a ‘Bee Hotel’ workshop, where homes will be built for native bee spe- SEEDLINGS SPREAD AT SECOND WEEKEND WORKSHOP: The future of Myrtleford’s cies to take up residence in ecological layout is strong, with plans for the installation of ‘bee motels’ and further the new ‘Wattle Way’. native plants.

Help plant native trees at Freeburgh this Sunday The recently postponed National Tree Day planting workshop at Freeburgh will now go ahead this Sunday, 10 August, starting at 10am. Participants at this year’s planting can meet at the Old Harrietville Road Bridge near to the Junction with the Great Alpine Road and North East Water storage and offtake pipe, wearing suitable clothes, a hat, gloves and sturdy footwear. The Upper Ovens Valley Landcare Group (UOVLG) is hoping to plant 500 native trees along a one kilometre stretch of the Ovens River, after invasive bushes and other woody weeds were recently removed from the embankment. Planting participants are invited to bring along their favourite planting tools, although tools will also be provided on the day. This is a family event, with children welcome to join in and lend a hand to plant as many native seedlings as possible. Attendees are asked to observe the Parks Victoria ‘Working with Children’ protocols, visit: https://www. parkconnect.vic.gov.au/Volunteer/childsafety/ for more information. A barbeque lunch will be provided for all volunteers on the day. Anyone interested in joining in, please let Martyn Paterson know you can attend and for more information, call 0437 501 441.

voice BankWAW reaffirms ongoing commitment Farmers’ key to Victorian to serve Myrtleford and district community ‘State of the BankWAW has reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to the Myrtleford community, following recent changes to local banking services. BankWAW CEO, Michael Mack, said BankWAW remains firmly in Myrtleford. “We understand how vital access to local banking is for individuals, families, businesses, and community groups across Victoria’s North East,” he said. “Our Myrtleford Service Centre in Clyde Street is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, offering a full range of personal and business banking services. “We also have an experienced local lender ready to support customers, whether for home loans, business needs or community projects.” Sam Johanson of BankWAW said he was happy to meet with customers in

the service centre, at home or wherever is convenient for them. “Being local means that I understand the community and that’s important,” he said. Mr Mack said BankWAW has proudly served the people of Myrtleford for many years as a customer-owned bank. “Our continued presence is a reflection of our deep roots in the region and our commitment to providing face-toface service, local employment, and ongoing support for the town’s growth and wellbeing,” he said. “We understand the concern that comes when a local bank closes its doors. “That’s why we want to reassure the community that BankWAW remains dedicated to supporting our Myrtleford customers with personalised, in-branch service as well as digital HERE TO SERVE: BankWAW in Clyde Street, Myrtleford, is opened 9am to banking solutions.” 5pm during the week.

MYRTLEFORD

Est. 1933 THE ALPINE

Est. 2013 Incorporating Hydro Courier, Bright Observer, Est. 1881 and Kiewa Valley Observer, Est. 1952

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State’ survey

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is urging farmers and regional Victorians to have their say on the biggest issues and opportunities facing their communities through the first ever ‘State of the State: Farmer Priorities Survey’. VFF president Brett Hosking said the VFF-led survey comes at a time when frustration in farming communities is reaching boiling point. “This survey is about getting the data to support our advocacy for the next 12 months as we head towards a state election,” he said. The survey is open now until 14 August and can be accessed by visiting the VFF website: https://www.vff.org.au/

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The Times & Observer 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 Time & Observer itself or contact the council by email at info@presscouncil.org.au or by phone on (02) 9261 1930.

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THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025 - Page 3

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Satisfaction survey shows Alpine Shire has room for improvement By PHOEBE MORGAN The latest results for the Alpine Shire Council’s Community Satisfaction Survey are in and reveal four areas of decline in popular opinion, two areas where the results remained approximately the same and two where scores were recorded as higher than last year. Conducted by an independent research consultant, the survey compiled feedback from 400 Alpine Shire residents through telephone interviews conducted in June 2024, September 2024, November 2024 and February 2025. The first four measures of the survey, ‘overall performance’, ‘value for money’,

‘overall council direction’ and ‘customer service’ have all declined compared to last year’s averages. ‘Customer service’ dropped from 59% to 55%, ‘overall performance’ dropped from 50% to 47%, ‘value for money’ dropped from 45% to 43% and ‘overall council direction’ reduced from 39% to 38%. Regarding council’s ‘community decisions’ and ‘consultation and engagement’, the figures remain the same as last year at 45% and 46% respectively, while the scores for ‘waste management’ and ‘sealed local roads’ have been reported with higher percentages, increasing from 56% to 60% and from 41% to 45% respectively.

ALPINE SHIRE COMMUNITY SATISFACTION RESULTS MEASURES 2025 Overall performance 47 Value for money 43 Council direction 38 55 Customer service Waste management 60 Community decisions 45 Consultation/engagment 46 Sealed local roads 45 % of respondents having contact with council 65 “[It’s] clearly not a great result,” Alpine Shire CEO, Will Jeremy said as the survey was discussed at last week’s council meeting. “In terms of the community’s perception and the feedback we’ve received from the

2024 50 45 39 59 56 45 46 41

2023 52 47 41 62 62 51 50 49

community, there is still work to be done. “We are genuinely interested to understand what the community’s perception of council’s service [is]. “We will share through council’s website the full re-

downhill trend in this year’s survey results. “Many factors as outlined in the comprehensive report have contributed to this result,” he said. “Including the BESS in the Kiewa Valley and the new development in the Upper Ovens Valley. “With our 2025-2029 Council Action Plan, I really hope the feedback received from our residents and ratepayers will be addressed and we could see an improvement in these strengths in the next months or years.” Councillors voted unanimously to note the results from this year’s Community Satisfaction Survey.

sults of the survey as we do every year. “One other thing I’d like to reflect on is the organisation, together with council, are working through development of the Council Plan. “We’ve been out to the community with the first draft and we’re working through a revised draft of the Council Plan. “We are cognisant of these survey results and there’s a very strong focus within the draft Council Plan which is being developed for the next four years, in addressing some of the challenges we’ve seen through these survey results.” Councillor Jean-Pierre Ronco said it was not really a surprise to see a continuous

PUPILS CONVERGE AT BRIGHT PAVILION TO ENJOY INDIGENOUS CULTURE By PHOEBE MORGAN

SCHOOLING CIRCLE: Aunty Lee Couch led students in a weaving and mindfulness exercise.

PHOTO: Myrtleford P-12 College

A Young Mob Collective Day was held at the Bright Pavilion on last Wednesday, 30 July, with approximately 50 primary and secondary school students in attendance from Myrtleford, Mount Beauty, Bright, Tawonga, Porepunkah, Tallangatta and Rutherglen. The multi-school gathering was created with the aim of bringing local First Nations youth and young people together to engage in cultural activities, including a smoking ceremony to kick off proceedings, an art workshop, traditional games, creation stories discussions and a wellness workshop. Two Myrtleford P-12 College VCE students, Sahara Giles and Lauree Duncan, worked with the Alpine Shire Council and other community supports to organise the Young Mob Collective Day. The activities were led by local Elders Uncle Mick Harding, Aunty Tammy Cambell and Aunty Lee Couch alongside First Nation’s community members Luke Brock and Dale French.

Almost $100,000 shared with 24 community groups, organisations Almost $100,000 will be shared by 24 groups and organisations throughout the Alpine Shire, after council last week approved funding under its 2025/26 Community Grant Program. Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, said with a broad range of applications from across the shire, the assessment panel prioritised the degree of benefit to the community and the degree to which projects can be maintained and are sustainable, as well as the impact on built, economic, environmental, recreational, social and wellbeing criteria. Of the recipients, 13 applicants got the full amount requested and 11 received a partial amount. An application from Alpine Cycling Club seeking $24,350 to developing a pathway for inclusion at Gravity Enduro 2026 was deemed to be outside the scope of the funding round while a $10,000 application from Tawonga & District Community Association has been referred to council’s capital project team.

Successful recipients are: • Albury Wodonga Regional FoodShare: hub planning $2500 • Alpine Valleys Autism Community: improving autistic wellbeing learning sessions $8950 • Bright Food Co-op: cultivating volunteer engagement $5325 • Bright P-12 College: hydroponics and aeroponics educational resource $2300 • Bright Theatre Company Inc: enhancing community theatre $4767 • Gapsted Public Hall Committee of Management Inc: heating upgrade $4990 • Gapsted Recreation Reserve: groundwork for generations $4052 • Havilah Cemetery Trust: Visitor Information $7947 • Little Stitches MTB Inc: sewing club $2000 • Lodge of Unity No. 54: improved car park access $2100 • Mount Beauty Golf Club Inc: ability-based tee boxes $4790 • Mount Beauty Market Inc: market revitalisation project: $1066 • Mount Beauty Playgroup: on the move program $1792 • Mount Beauty Toy Library: new shed for outdoor toys $6000 FUNDS GRANTED FOR COMMUNITY: • Myrtleford and District Historical Society Inc: upgrading display Mt Beauty Golf Club is among units $3200 grant recipients. • Myrtleford Golf Club Inc: new workshop enclosure $5240 • Myrtleford Savoy Soccer Club Inc: turf maintenance equipment $6750 • St Paul’s Hall (Lillis Community Hall): sustainable hot water supply $4152 • Sustainable Upper Ovens Inc: social media video promotions $4600 • U3A Myrtleford and District Inc: Myrtleford Senior Citizens Centre acoustics $6000 • Bright and District Chamber of Commerce: World chamber congress $3000 • Myrtleford RSL Sub-Branch Inc: securing historic memorabilia $4563 • United Bright Football and Netball Club: netball court WiFi $1717 • Upper Ovens Valley Landcare Group: threatened species and fire recovery workshop $2000

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Page 4 - THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025

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By PHOEBE MORGAN

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myrtlefordtimes.com.au

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S D B A S A L T P R I A C A R A P A C E U A G I T A T E R R D V E S T A A D M I T M I N T P P A S S E D R O N U S D E L V E B U D M E E T B E L L M A R E N I D E A L S S T O P B A N T A M S S T A L E E A S E S E S T A T E S R N C C A R E E R E D T O E S E V E R E Y S S

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Alpine Shire Council unanimously voted to approve, execute, sign and seal a proposed lease of a Porepunkah Airfield hangar at last week’s council meeting. Moved by Councillor Gareth Graham and seconded by Councillor Noah Tanzen, Cr Graham asked if there were any restrictions on the use of these aircraft hangars. Council’s director of corporate and community, Nathalie Cooke, said the hangars were only to be used for aviation purposes, which is detailed in the copy of the lease. Councillor Dave Byrne asked when and how the amount of rent was established. “The lease cost was established some time ago and my understanding is we’re to align with [the] best practice of other councils,” Ms Cooke said. “As it’s a not-for-profit, it was based on an equitable square-metre rate for the community.” Council consulted with the Porepunkah Airfield Association, which supported the issuing THE FUTURE OF FLIGHT AT POREPUNKAH: Council voted to lease an aircraft hangar at last week’s monthly meeting. PHOTO: Phoebe Morgan of the lease.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR With Children Checks. Labor betrays children Working These changes weren’t political; they were practical, backed by the Ombudsman in 2022, in Victoria, again and long overdue.

I am deeply disappointed with the Allan Labor Government’s decision to block urgent reforms in Parliament last week that would have strengthened Victoria’s broken Working With Children Check (WWCC) system. We had a chance, a real opportunity, to take meaningful action to protect our kids. Instead, Premier Jacinta Allan and her Labor government voted against it. The proposed reforms, introduced by The Nationals and the Liberals through the Worker Screening Amendment (Safety of Children) Bill 2025, would have allowed authorities to consider a wider range of risk factors when assessing applicants and made it easier to refuse or revoke

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Our children’s safety should never be compromised. The Allan Labor Government was given the chance to close dangerous gaps in the system, yet they failed to deliver when it mattered most. But Labor continues to ignore the warnings, Tim McCurdy, Nationals’ MP for Ovens Valley and now with children suffering the consequences of a broken system, they still refuse to act. Every day of inaction from Jacinta Allan puts more children at risk. How many more families have to suffer before LETTERS to the editor must be signed with the full name, address and contact telephone number of the author protecting kids, comes before protecting the provided. Letters under 250 words are preferred and we system? reserve the right to edit letters to fit available space. Families in Ovens Valley and across Victoria Nom de plumes will only be ptublished at the editor’s deserve better. discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared Labor had three years to fix this mess. by this newspaper. Again, they could have acted, but, true to edit.timesobserver@nemedia.com.au Email form, chose not to. Post North East Media 76 Standish Street, Myrtleford, Vic 3737 Jacinta Allan had the chance to protect our children, and she walked away from it.

THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025 - Page 5

myrtlefordtimes.com.au

Community groups share in more than $143,000 of events’ funding More than 40 events across Alpine Shire have been awarded a share of $143,500 in funding and $15,500 of in-kind support through

Alpine Shire’s 2025/26 Event Funding Program, which was approved by councillors last week. Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah

$10,000 FOR LA FIERA ITALIAN FESTIVAL

MYRTLEFORD  Myrtleford Chamber of Commerce & Industry Inc. received $10,000 for La Fiera Italian Festival, $5000 for Myrtleford Summer Series, and $2000 for Myrtleford Bush Market.  Into Our Hands Community Foundation received $2000 for Twilight Christmas Carols 2025.  Myrtleford and Districts Agriculture and Pastoral Society received $10,000 for the Myrtleford Show.  Myrtleford Football Netball Club received $2000 for Mental Wellbeing Week 2026.  Myrtleford Golf Club received $2000 for the Great Alpine Classic and $1500 for Victorian Veterans 4BBB Championship.  Myrtleford Lions Club received $5000 for the Golden Spurs Rodeo.  Spartan Aus 3.0 received $5000 for the Myrtleford DEKA Trifecta Weekend.  The Tobacco & Associated Farmers Cooperative Ltd received $2000 for Myrtleford Farmers Market.  Myrtleford Lawn Tennis Club received $1000 (in kind) for its Easter Tournament.

Nicholas, said applications represented a wide scope of events that both attract a large number of visitors and accommodate for local interests.

Council said the events were chosen based on whether they have a positive impact for the community, how they contribute to a

diverse events calendar, whether they encourage repeat visitation, and their sustainability over a long period of time.

$5000 FOR BRIGHT AUTUMN FESTIVAL

$5000 FOR MOUNT BEAUTY OKTOBERFEST & DASCHUND DERBY

BRIGHT  Bright and District Chamber of Commerce received $5000 for Bright Autumn Festival, $5000 for Bright Winter Festival 2026, $2000 for Bright Make It Bake It Grow It Market’ and $2000 for Bright Twilight Tastings.  Alpine Cycling Club received $10,000 for its Tour of Bright Criterium, $2000 for Alpe de Buffalo, $2000 for Gravity Enduro, and $2000 for Ride Her Way: Come and Try Day.  Bright Rod Run & Kustom Club Inc. received $8000 (in kind) for the Bright Rod Run.  Australasian Bluegrass and Old Time Music Association received $1000 (in kind) for its Mountaingrass Festival.  North East Victoria Hang Gliding Club received $2000 for the Bright Open 2026.  Quad Events Pty Ltd received $5000 for the Quad Crown: Mystic Yak.  Single Track Events Pty Ltd received $10,000 for the Buffalo Stampede Festival 2026.  Skunkworks Community Limited received $2000 for the Alpine Brass Festival.  Rotary Club of Bright received $3000 for Bright Rotary Markets.  Bright Cabaret & Comedy Festival Inc received $2000.  Bright Lights Winter Nights received $1000 for the Christmas Market 2025.  Bright P-12 College received $5000 for its Bright Fun Run: Trail Fest 2026.  Thought Sports Pty Ltd received $5000 for Bright Alpine Climb: 4 Peaks.

MT BEAUTY  West Peak Pty Ltd T/A Mountain Monk Brewers received $5000 for Mount Beauty Oktoberfest & Daschund Derby.  Team Mount Beauty received $3000 for the Victorian Downhill Series Round Mount Beauty.  Kangaroo Hoppet Inc. received $2000 for the Mount Beauty Running Festival.  Upper Kiewa Valley Regional Arts Inc. received $2000 for Mount Beauty Writers Festival.

DINNER PLAIN  Dinner Plain Community Association received $4000 for It’s a Long Way to the Top.

DEDERANG  Dederang Picnic Race Club received $5000 (in kind) for the Dederang Picnic Races.

HARRIETVILLE  Harrietville Historical Society received $2000 for Harrietville Bush Markets.  Harrietville Primary School received $3000 for the Harrietville Half Marathon. WANDILIGONG  Wandiligong Nut Festival received $10,000.  Wandi Trail Runners Inc. received $5000 for Wandi Cross.

ATO’S NEW REQUIREMENTS FOR NFPS

If you are involved with running a not for profit (NFP) organisation it is important to be aware of key obligations and requirements. In particular, if the NFP qualifies as a tax exempt entity there are some specific conditions that need to be satisfied and a relatively new ATO reporting obligation which needs to be undertaken to maintain that income tax exempt status.

ANNUAL NFP SELF-REVIEW RETURN From the 2023–24 income year, non-charitable NFPs with an active Australian Business Number (ABN) are required to lodge an annual NFP self-review return with the ATO. This return notifies the ATO of the organisation’s eligibility to self-assess as income tax exempt. The return has three sections: • Organisation details: standard information on the NFP. • Income tax self-assessment: confirmation of the organisation’s income tax exempt status. • Summary and declaration: acknowledgement of the information provided. When the return is being completed the NFP must answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to the question: ‘Does the organisation have and follow clauses in its governing documents that prohibit the distribution of income or assets to members while it is operating and winding up?’ This requirement needs to be satisfied in order for the NFP to self-assess its position as a tax exempt entity. If a NFPs governing documents don’t have these clauses then it can still self-assess as income tax exempt for the 2024 income year as long as no income or assets have

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been distributed to members. As a transitional arrangement, the ATO is allowing NFPs until 30 June 2025 to update their governing documents. Failing to do this will mean that the organisation cannot self-assess as income tax exempt from 1 July 2024 for the 2025 income year, which would lead to the organisation being treated as a taxable entity that might then need to lodge a tax return. MANDATORY CLAUSES IN GOVERNING DOCUMENTS Governing documents are the formal documents which set out the purpose of the organisation, its character and the rules and requirements for how decisions are made, how it operates and how long it operates for. As noted above, NFPs must include specific clauses in their governing documents to self-assess as income tax exempt. These clauses must: • Prohibit the distribution of income or assets to members during the organisation’s operation and on winding up. • Ensure that any surplus assets are transferred to another NFP with similar purposes upon dissolution. NFPs should also ensure that there are sufficient controls in place to ensure that members don’t receive income, property or assets which belong to the organisation, except where they are receiving remuneration for work performed for the entity or a reimbursement of expenses incurred on behalf of the organisation. The ATO advises that NFP governing documents should be reviewed at least annually or whenever there is a major change to the structure or activities of the organisation. An annual general meeting is a good time to review governing documents. Taking a proactive approach helps identify any issues and reinforces your organisation’s commitment to good governance.

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Page 6 - THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025

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Bonjour et Bienvenue à French Day for Porepunkah students By PHOEBE MORGAN Porepunkah Primary School students immersed themselves in French culture on 26 July. French teacher Madame Kathryn Rupp, dressed in a head-to-toe costume as the Mona Lisa, again excelled organising the big day, with the help of the school’s wonderful teaching staff and parent volunteers. In mixed age groups (F-6), all students rotated through eight different activities which included: making crepes, building an Eiffel Tower, croissant rolling, Brittany dancing, delving into the world of French cartoons with Asterix and Obelix, playing Pétanque (boules) ball game, engaging in a French language and culture quiz, and drawing their own French street art scene. Many staff commented on how wonderful it was to see the students so engaged. The day’s event culminated in a whole school fashion parade on the basketball court in which students and teachers voted for the best dressed students. There was a French tour de France rider, an inventor of the parachute, many mimes, the Mona Lisa, le chat noir, Emily in Paris, a giant packet of French fries and plenty of moustaches and berets on show. Selected students won prizes for the effort they had put into their costumes as well as prizes for stu-

dents who were noticed by staff and parents for helping others, being patient, looking after the younger students and who excelled in a certain activity etc. When asked about her plans to make it bigger for next year, Madame Rupp said that she would love to try out some new activities, perhaps bring in some wider francophone culture from other countries such as Belgium or Madagascar, as well as engage some local French speakers to assist on the day too. While the school’s focus has been France and French to support language and cultural learning at school, there is huge potential to draw on the local heritage languages and the diverse community to run an international day DANCING DELIGHT: Enjoying a traditional Brittany dance were (from left) Tilly Croucher, in the future. Heidi Booth, principal Jill Gillies and Rafe De Campo.

Queensland driver caught at 148km/h on Snow Road A Queenslander will be facing erratic driving related charges after being caught allegedly driving 48km/h over the speed limit at Whorouly. A Wangaratta police spokesperson said officers responded to a call of an erratic driver on Snow Road. Highway patrol members subsequently clocked the vehicle allegedly travelling 148km/h in the 100km/h zone. The SUV was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1729 and the driver will face court at a later date for traffic related charges.

Lost handbag in police hands

Bright police have been handed this handbag which was recently found in a local venue. The owner can contact the property officer on (03) 5755 1444 and quote property number 202507-E-2649. Proof of ownership must be provided.

Ski equipment theft is surging

YUMMY: Rolling their croissants were (from left) Patrick Beatson, Hilton Savage and Jamie Muccio.

TIME TO COOK: Pierre-Louis Rupp get ready to make crepes.

PICTURE PERFECT: French teacher Madame Kathryn Rupp, dressed in a head-to-toe costume as the Mona Lisa.

Police at Mt Hotham and Falls Creek are urging snow goers to lock up their equipment, with a surge in ski equipment theft at Victorian alpine resorts this season. Police are reminding alpine visitors to remember to secure your skis, snowboards and boots with a retractable lock to ensure their safety, while taking a break or having a meal.

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THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025 - Page 7

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Myrtleford court unaffected by remote services switch By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN A cutback of in-person services at regional magistrates’ courts in Victoria won’t affect Myrtleford Magistrates’ Court monthly sittings. Magistrates’ Court Victoria (MCV) switched 10 regional Victorian courts, including Wangaratta, to remote reg-

istry services on non-sitting days as of 14 July. In a statement, MCV said the move would provide staff with time to prepare listing for future sitting days and do other registry work. The move was described as the third phase of MCV’s “successful pilot”, which began in early 2024.

Local legal services Hume Riverina Community Legal Service and ARC Justice have expressed disappointment in the cutback of in-person services, saying it will limit the community’s access to justice. A MCV spokesperson told this masthead the Myrtleford Magistrates’ Court will re-

main open once per month on Fridays except on public holidays. For in-person support, court users are advised to attend Wangaratta Magistrtaes’ Court on sitting days. The Wangaratta court is set to have its first non-sitting day since the remote registry service rollout on Friday,

8 August, when Myrtleford Magistrates’ Court will be sitting, followed by two more on 12 August and 15 August. The MCV spokesperson said all court services remain fully accessible remotely, including phone enquiries, email correspondence, filing of documents via electronic means and access to virtual

Lions laud Stephen Jenvey with Max McGillivray Award

By PHOEBE MORGAN

The Lions Club of Bright have named Stephen Jenvey as this year’s recipient of the Max McGillivray Award. This perpetual award recognises an individual or group’s outstanding service to the Alpine community over an extended period of time. The award is granted in honour of the late Max McGillivray, who, himself was a member of the Bright Lions and involved tirelessly in the community and its innumerable projects. “This year’s awardee, Steve, was born in Bright and his family is well known here,” Bright Lions Club secretary, Chris Jenvey said. “Steve is well involved in the Bright Lions Club, the Bright Lawn Bowls and the Uniting church. “He is always ready to lend a hand. “Steve was very humbled by the honour and didn’t expect it at all: gosh, it was hard keeping that secret from him. “His many years of service to the community saw him

LOCAL LIONS LAUREL: Pictured at this year’s Max McGillivray Award presentation are (from left) recipient Stephen Jenvey, with Max’s son Ian McGillivray who presented the award with Lions members Paula West and Malcolm Stapleton. PHOTO: Bright Lions nominated for this award and the committee decided he was the most favourable candidate this year.” Malcolm Stapleton, one of the oldest serving Lions and current committee member,

made a speech introducing the award and the recipient, then proceeded to tell a bit about Steve’s history and how he became the winner at the Lion’s meeting on 15 July.

The award entails a small plaque for the winner, with a larger perpetual plaque held at the Bright Library as well as $1000 to be donated towards a cause of their choice within Bright: this year, the

funds will be awarded to the Bright Theatre Company. Stephen made a short speech to say thank you, stating he felt very honoured and humbled he had been chosen for the award.

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hearing and registry services. Court users can call the Myrtleford Magistrates’ Court registrar on (03) 9063 0114 or email myrtlefordcoordinator@courts.vic.gov.au. For in-person services when Myrtleford and Wangaratta courts aren’t sitting, you can visit Wodonga Magistrates’ Court.

State funding to help tackle roadside weeds Alpine Shire Council has received $19,083 in Victorian government funding to help manage harmful weeds and pests along rural and regional roads. Acting Minister for Local Government, Melissa Horne, said the funding through the Roadside Weeds and Pests program could be used for a range of activities, such as treating and preventing the spread of weeds including blackberry, boxthorn and serrated tussock, as well as managing rabbit populations. Minister Horne said Local Government Victoria and Agriculture Victoria will work with council to ensure plans to tackle weeds and pests are tailored to their local area. She said Invasive plant and animal species threaten native biodiversity and can have a serious negative impact on agricultural production. “Since 2017, the Labor Government has invested more than $24 million across the state to help councils manage rural roadsides,” Minister Horne said. Alpine Shire’s recently adopted 2025/26 budget allocates $1,465,000 towards the maintenance of local roads, bridges and drainage, with some funding going towards roadside vegetation.

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Page 8 - THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025

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20% cut to HECS debts passes Independent federal MP for Indi, Helen Haines, has covered a gamut of key service areas in the first two weeks of the new federal parliament. With international affairs a heavy presence in the parliament, so too were domestic issues with Dr Haines making key advocacy statements for Indi. The federal government passed legislation on its election commitment to reduce student HECS debt by 20 per cent, which Dr Haines supported for the almost 14,000 people in Indi that have an average HECS debt of $21,000.

Dr Haines support was not without criticism, though, citing the timing of indexation as a problem for students. “The current indexation arrangements are unfairly adding thousands of dollars to Australian debts and should be fixed,” she said, calling on the government to extend payments for practical placements for students, following her successful amendment in the last parliament to have the system reviewed within three years. “I hear from so many people having to choose between study or work – some putting

their degrees on hold because unpaid placements are simply not possible when they have mortgages, rents and bills to pay.” Dr Haines raised issues with changes to the NDIS Pricing Review after meeting with local service providers last month. Under new rules, the amount providers can claim for travel is halved and risks the viability of future service delivery. “Last month I met with more than a dozen of Indi’s physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dieticians,

speech pathologists and support coordinators to hear their concerns,” she said. “I have urged the government to pause these pricing changes and consult with providers in order to protect these NDIS services in the regions.” Other legislation passing the parliament included two bills to legislate technical changes required for aged care reforms that will come into effect from 1 November. Dr Haines reinforced concern that the delay of 83,000 new Home Care Packages was leaving nearly 90,000 people

PEOPLE AROUND TOWN MYRTLEFORD

BRIGHT

Jon Setford Where do you live? I live in Bright. How long have you lived in the area? I’ve been here for two years after moving from Shepparton. What do you do for a living? I’m the manager at Cloud 9 Escape Rooms in Bright. What are your hobbies and interests? I like gaming, writing and basically any other creative activities. What do you think makes the area unique? The hillsides and mountains around town. Coming from the flat farmland part of the state, I can say the closest you’ll get to a hill are the dams on properties. What would you change about the area? Improving the telephone reception in a few spots.

Emma Benincasa Where do you live? I currently live in Bright, in a quiet street with my husband Adam and our two dogs Marley and Poppy. How long have you lived in the area? 10 years. We are originally from Melbourne, however my husband’s family have always been local to the Alpine region. What do you do for a living? I work at Myrtleford Property Group as a property manager. My background has always been property and people, involved through Bright Escapes Holiday Accommodation and Four Peaks Real Estate. However, I am settling into my new position with Myrtleford Property Group and loving getting to know everyone and everything Myrtleford has to offer. What are your hobbies and interests? I love interior design and decorating,

along with anything homewares. I also love being outdoors and spending time with family and friends. I am however guilty of being a homebody and just enjoying the simple life. What do you think makes the area unique? Being from Melbourne I can truly appreciate the appeal of our Alpine region and why so many people want to call it home. We are so lucky to have small and meaningful communities. The pace here in Myrtleford may differ from Bright, however, I appreciate them both the same for different reasons. Not to mention how stunning our landscape is. We are truly lucky to be able to live where we do and have so much natural beauty at our doorstep. What would you change about the area? The infrastructure could definitely improve to support the locals with more opportunities and assistance.

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waiting for care, speaking on the bill and raising the issue in Question Time last Thursday. “The government’s delay to the new aged care system leaves nearly 90,000 people waiting for a home care package,” she said. “Despite this, the government ignored the crossbench call to fund 20,000 packages to bridge the gap to the new system and cannot articulate what they are doing to support these people in the meantime.” Parliament resumes on 25 August.

BIG ISSUES ON AGENDA: Dr Haines raising NDIS issues in the House of Representatives. PHOTO: Auspic

New campaign launches to help reduce men’s suicide Murray Primary Health Network (PHN) has launched a new campaign, ‘His Story. End Silence. End Suicide’, in a bid to reduce the rate of men’s suicide across the North East. Suicide is the leading cause of death of Australian males aged 15-44 and the third leading cause of death of males aged 45-64. Knowing that men are typically less likely than women to reach out for support, the campaign has been developed with the help of a consumer reference group to increase awareness and to encourage help-seeking behaviours among men. Murray PHN CEO Matt Jones says the strength of the campaign comes from involving those with lived and living experience. “Mental health and suicide touches the lives of many,” he said. “When we include those who can draw on their own life-experiences, that’s where the real power lies. “Their unique perspectives have helped to create something that breaks the silence and importantly encourages

action, and I thank each and every one of them for their involvement.” The men featured in the campaign also have lived and living experience – bringing a real, strong and emotive visual to the messaging. One of those men is proud Wiradjuri man Buddy Oldman, who said the best thing he had ever done was to ask for help with his mental health. “What you see in the footage is the raw reality of my mental health, not acting,” he said. “If people are struggling and need help, I encourage them to speak up, not shut up.” People can view the campaign and find a range of dedicated support resources at hisstory.com.au. If you are in an emergency situation or at immediate risk of harm to yourself or others, contact emergency services on 000. Other support services include Lifeline – 13 13 14 or lifeline.org.au or Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice. org.au.

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THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025 - Page 9

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Labor will make work P&C from home legal right Alpine

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The Victorian government intends to make working from home a right. Premier Jacinta Allan announced over the weekend that her government will introduce legislation to protect the ability of an employee to work from home. She said under this proposed law, if you can reasonably do your job from home, you will have the right to do so for at least two days a week – public sector or private sector. Premier Allan said working from home “works for families and it’s good for the economy”. She said more than a third of Australian workers – including 60 per

cent of professionals – are already regularly working from home. Premier Allan said it saves families money (on average $110 a week or $5308 every year), cuts traffic congestion, and gets more people working as it supports women with children, carers and people with a disability to work. She said it’s also good for business, as “those who work from home are working nearly 20 per cent more hours than those who are working in the office full time”. To develop the working from home laws, the government intends to undertake consultation led by the Department of Pre-

mier and Cabinet. “We will consider the types of businesses and the size of businesses that that will be covered by this scheme, as well as the definition of remote work and who is able to do it,” Premier Allan said “Consultation will focus on ensuring the law reflects the realworld experience of working from home: what’s fair, what’s practical, and what’s already working in many workplaces today. “This consultation process won’t determine whether working from home should be a right. “We’re already clear on that: it should be.

“We just need the appropriate laws to reflect it.” Following consultation, the Labor Government intends to introduce and pass this legislation next year. Opposition leader Brad Battin said the the Victorian Liberals and Nationals recognise that working from home has become a valuable option for many workers and families. “We support measures that help Victorians enjoy a better work-life balance, and will review any legislation closely, to ensure it supports flexibility, productivity, and personal choice,” he said.

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High Country tourism funding boost

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Regional tourism businesses across the state will receive more support to upskill and boost their business through the State Government’s Regional Tourism Network Industry Strengthening Program. Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos last week announced additional funding for the program, which supports Victoria’s Visitor Economy Partnerships (VEPs) to deliver training and support regional tourism businesses. Under the program, VEPs will be eligible to receive up to $100,000 each in additional funding, ensuring regional tourism businesses continue to benefit from tailored training programs giving them the skills to grow their business and improve visitor experiences. Tourism North East welcomed the opportunity, saying it has already benefited from the first round of funding under the program. Tourism North East head of visitor experience Dean CleaveSmith said $100,000 was received under the program last year, which was invested in the delivery of two key programs within local industry, focussing on accessibility, and on cycle tourism. Mr Cleave-Smith said the Accessible Tourism program involved working with a range of businesses to build their understanding and awareness of accessibility needs,

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Hearing Services JO ROSS-JACKSON HEARING CENTRES 29 Clyde Street Myrtleford CYCLE CAPITAL: Tourism North East’s Dean Cleave-Smith says cycle tourism remains “an incredibly important” sector to the local region. PHOTO: Wmedia/Ride High Country how they may cater to people with those needs, and better present their offering to the market. He said the second key program was Ride High Country Preferred, working with a range of businesses across the region to refine their product offering for cycle tourists. “It’s a key product for the region, supported by our dedicated Ride High Country brand, and it’s a very high yielding business, so optimising the product delivery to that sector is important, so we continue to be a destination of choice with all cycle tourists,” Mr Cleave-Smith said. “It will culminate in an industry forum in September,

where it will be launched.” Mr Cleave-Smith said cycle tourism was “an incredibly important” sector to Victoria’s High Country, and last year Tourism North East was the first organisation in Australia to launch a fully mapped and documented gravel cycling network, including a top 10 of gravel rides unique to the High Country. He said research showed gravel cyclists were some of the highest yielding cyclists, pedalling hard by day but enjoying themselves at night, accessing local accommodation and multiple hospitality venues. “The feedback from consumers around that launch has been

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Make your plates safe with anti-theft screws Police are asking the community to tighten the screws on number plate theft by purchasing and installing one-way screws at the station. Number plate theft crimes are not to be taken lightly, as stolen plates can be used to commit more serious offences including petrol drive-offs, driving offences, burglaries and even drug trafficking. Wangaratta police station has anti-theft screws available for just a gold coin donation at the front counter. The one-way screws can be used to secure number plates and make them much harder to steal. Prevention is the key – secure your plates and park in a well-lit, secure area. But if you ever become a victim, report it at your earliest opportunity to give the best chance to catch the offenders, recover what’s yours, and keep the community safe.

astronomical - it has completely shifted the thinking of Melbourne - as a key market - around what the High Country can offer in terms of gravel cycle tourism,” he said. Mr Cleave-Smith said the second round of funding was a welcome initiative from the government, and they look forward to submitting a strong application for it. He said Tourism North East is looking to develop a strategy to market the region’s fabulous waterways, including its many lakes and rivers, exploring the potential to attract tourists interested in water-based experiences and recreational activities.

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Page 10 - THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025

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Women’s Health Goulburn North East welcomes new CEO Women’s Health Goulburn North East (WHGNE) has announced the appointment of Mandy Macdonald as the new chief executive officer. WHGNE chairperson Chris McInnes said Ms Macdonald brings more than 16 years of executive and senior leadership experience in the health and community services sector.

“She is a values-driven leader with a deep commitment to gender equity, social justice, and improving the health and wellbeing of women and gender-diverse people in regional communities,” Ms McInnes said. “Throughout her career, Mandy has led multidisciplinary teams in regional and

rural settings, fostering inclusive, respectful, and outcomes-focused cultures. “Her leadership is grounded in integrity, empathy, and empowerment, and she is known for creating psychologically safe environments where individuals and teams can thrive. “Mandy is passionate about ensuring the voices

of women and underserved communities are central to service design, delivery, and policy advocacy.” As CEO, Mandy will lead WHGNE’s strategic direction and operations with a focus on amplifying regional voices, securing sustainable impact, and expanding the reach of initiatives that pro-

mote gender justice, sexual reproductive health rights and climate justice. “As valued partners and friends, please join us in warmly welcoming Mandy to the team,” Ms McInnes said. “We look forward to the leadership, vision, and energy she will bring to our WELCOME: New WHGNE CEO shared purpose.” Mandy Macdonald.

SLED DOG RACING RETURNS TO DINNER PLAIN THIS WEEKEND

READY TO RACE: Mushers and their dog teams will be competing in the annual Dinner Plain Sled Dog Sprint this weekend.

Dogs will become the focus of attention at Dinner Plain this weekend, with the annual staging of the Dinner Plain Sled Dog Sprint. Event organiser Vaughan Winther said on the back of a great snow season so far, interest has only grown and mushers from every state and territory (except the NT) in the country will be bringing their sled dog teams to race on the cross country ski trails around the Dinner Plain Village. “We’re expecting more than 90 dog teams to compete making for an action-packed weekend,” he said. “The dog teams number from one to six and they are separated into ‘classes’ and run two heats over two days. “The open class ‘competitive’ races have two-dog, three-dog, four-dog, six-dog and eight-dog teams and there is usually between 10-20 teams in each class. “The teams line up and run out in one minute intervals. “The faster teams will pass the slower teams, with the faster teams ‘seeded’ to run out first in the second heat. “The winners receive prizes, trophies and some awesome premium Black Hawk

Dog Food for their teams.” Racing runs from 9am to 2pm on both Saturday and Sunday. Mr Winther said there is also a touring/social class which is good for beginners or mushers who want to take their older dogs out for a run. “In 2022, we introduced the Mini Musher Sprint for kids and families which was a great success,” he said. “An adult can take a child under 12 out on a sled with up to two dogs. “We are also supporting junior mushers to participate and build their mushing skills and confidence with our two-dog Junior Class.” Mr Winther said previous events have attracted hundreds of spectators to enjoy the free unique racing experience, and he hopes this year will be the same. “We have created a family friendly atmosphere for mushers and also improved the spectator experience,” he said, thankful of the support for local stakeholders and sponsors, specifically the Alpine Shire Council, Dinner Plain Services and Black Hawk Petcare. For more details go to www.dinnerplainsleddog.com

Second strike rule created to tighten up Victoria’s bail laws New bail laws have been introduced to Victorian Parliament in an effort to curb reoffending and bolster community safety. Premier Jacinta Allan, Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny and Police Minister Anthony Carbines introduced the Bail Further Amendment Bill 2025 into parliament last week. The bill establishes a new bail test for repeat and serious offenders and creates a second-strike rule for those already on bail accused of further offences. This follows changes earlier

this year, which have already seen a rise in bail revocations and remand numbers. The government’s aim is to reduce reoffending risk and ensure the justice system prioritises community safety. The new test targets those on bail and charged again with offences including aggravated home invasion, aggravated carjacking, armed robbery, aggravated burglary, home invasion and carjacking. This surpasses similar New South Wales laws by applying it to all ages permanently. A second-strike rule will

broaden the impact beyond the six serious offences. Building on the stand-alone offence of ‘committing an indictable offence on bail’ introduced in March, this bill “uplifts” the bail test for repeat indictable offending, making it tougher than it would be for first-time offenders. Offences subject to this uplift include burglary, motor vehicle theft, assaults, robbery, riot and affray, firearms and controlled weapons offences, sex offences, serious drug offences, theft over $2500, and criminal damage

exceeding $5000 or caused by fire. Safeguards are in place to mitigate disproportionate impacts on vulnerable people, with lower-harm offences like low-level drug possession exempt from uplift. This second bill expands on earlier legislation that prioritised community safety in bail decisions, created bail offences, removed the ‘last resort’ principle for youth remand and subjected high-harm offences, such as knife crime, to stricter bail tests. The government anticipates

a further increase in adult and youth offenders on remand, prompting the hiring of hundreds of new prison staff and the addition of almost 1000 adult prison beds systemwide, plus 88 beds at Cherry Creek and Parkville youth justice facilities. Premier Jacinta Allan said they needed to go further under tough new bail laws to keep Victorians safe. “Victorians are rightly disgusted with repeated, violent offending and now our bail laws are the toughest in the country, because community

safety will always come first,” she said. Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny said these laws protect the community from serious repeat offenders who endanger Victorians, while ensuring vulnerable people aren’t unfairly caught up. Police Minister Anthony Carbines said frontline police work hard day and night to keep the community safe. “These tough new laws will back that work and send the strongest possible message to serious, repeat offenders,” he said.

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THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025 - Page 11

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Conference in Timor-Leste brings friends and community together BY ANITA McPHERSON

amcpherson@ nemedia.com.au

embers of Wangaratta Friends of Lacluta (WFOL), Mansfield Friends of Venilale and Indigo Shire Friends of Atauro, were among the local contingent to attend the 5th International Conference of Friendship Groups held in Dili, Timor-Leste over two days in July. The objective of the conference was to strengthen the bonds of friendship between municipal councils and communities in Australia and those in TimorLeste, with the opening ceremony officiated by Timor-Leste Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, with Timor-Leste Minister of State Administration, Tomas do Rosario Cabral, and Australian ambassador to Timor-Leste, Caitlin Wilson. More than 200 people from 20 friendship groups - some who have been working together for more than 20 years - joined Timor-Leste leaders from government, authorities, administrative bodies and other organisations from both countries for the event. The conference aims to reinforce people-to-people and government-to-government connections, fostering deeper engagement and collaboration at the local level. It was a fitting way to end this year’s expedition to Timor-Leste by WFOL’s Karen Jones, Linda Sexton, Brian Thompson, Barbara Broz and Andy Kimber. WFOL chairperson and Myrtleford resident Ms Jones said it had been an enjoyable and successful trip. “The conference reinforced the value the Timor-Leste government places on the work being done by friendship groups at a local level, and the commitment to work together in the future,” she said. “It was a fabulous opportunity to network with others (both Timorese and Australians), hear about the programs funded by Australia, and discuss priorities which include addressing the needs of women, young people, people with a disability, and for vocational education.” Ms Jones said while on the ground, the team worked with their long-time friend, translator and new liaison person Benny

LOCAL LINK: Wangaratta Friends of Lacluta chairperson Karen Jones said long-time friend, translator and new liaison person Benny Gonsalves is passionate and committed to working with the group in Lacluta.

LIFE EXPERIENCE: It was the first trip to Timor-Leste for Brian Thompson, with regular visitor Karen Jones of Myrtleford, experiencing local transport and logistical challenges in Lacluta. MEET AND GREET: Attending the 5th International Conference of Friendship Groups in Dili were Karen Champlin, Brian Thompson, Rabela Punif, Karen Jones, Benny Gonsalves, Snr Pasquale, Linda Sexton, Andy Kimber and Barbara Broz. Gonsalves, who she said is passionate and committed to working with WFOL. “He is also a talented musician and wrote a special song called Building Bridges, Not Walls about our friendship, which he and Andy sang at the conference in Dili,” she said. “We have also employed a new disability support person to make short visits to disabled children in their homes. “Very sadly our last person passed away suddenly while in her early 20s – which is the reality sometimes with Lacluta’s remoteness and lack of medical facilities.” Ms Jones said they purchased a number of re-useable menstrual kits in Lacluta - made by a trained local sewer - for the Mother and Baby Bags the group provides to vulnerable mothers.

She said they continue to strengthen their partnership with the new local technical vocational school – appreciating the motivation and forward thinking of the principal. “Our first two tertiary scholarship students from this school both have jobs now in agriculture – which is so important to the food security of the nation,” she said. Ms Jones said the group is now focussing on working more closely with the local administration on the ground via their liaison person, and strengthening their vocational scholarship program and process. They also continue to work closely with the new leadership at the local medical centre, assisting with priorities government is unable to meet, and working together to support those with a disability.

ndy Kimber said he continues to be impressed by the positivity and dignity of the Timorese people, despite the level of poverty still experienced. “Our still very isolated community of Lacluta is operating so much better than observed on our first trips 20 year ago, with a very functional medical clinic and a permanent doctor present,” he said. “There are improved educational facilities too, with the new technical vocational school.” Andy said attending the conference was most rewarding, and many contacts were made with people from Timor-Leste and other nations, who are trying to get to grips with the country’s past and future. He is looking forward to working with Benny on a project to relate the incredible story of Lacluta to the

Independence for older people. The transition to our new aged care system must preserve the dignity and quality of life for older Australians. Read my speech at helenhaines.org Wodonga: 79 High Street, Wodonga | 02 6024 6284 Wangaratta: 117 Murphy Street, Wangaratta | 03 5721 7077 helen.haines.mp@aph.gov.au | helenhaines.org | @helenhainesindi Authorised by Helen Haines, 117 Murphy St Wangaratta VIC 3677

outside world, while the three local groups in the Indi electorate are also planning a special event to celebrate 20 years of friendship with their Timor-Leste communities. Together they will host a celebration on Saturday, 20 September at the Uniting Church Hall in Rowan Street, where there will be music, dancing and video links back to Timor-Leste, along with raffles and other entertainment, with tickets available soon via the Friends of Lacluta Facebook page. Members of Wangaratta Friends of Lacluta have also been invited to attend a special ceremony in Melbourne on Tuesday, 12 August, where President and Nobel Peace Laureate José Ramos-Horta will be awarding the Order of Timor-Leste Medals to nominated friendship groups.

Page 12 - THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025

myrtlefordtimes.com.au

Kia EV3 Air: From little things...

■ DRIVING SUSTAINABLY: One of many vehicles in Kia’s EV collection, the EV3 is certainly a strong competitor in the small electric SUV department.

out at $63,950 for the GTLine Long Range. The EV3 comes under Kia’s With the latest edition, the impressive warranty of seven EV3, hitting the market down years or 150,000 kilometres, under, Kia electrics make up whichever comes first. almost as many numbers as a STYLING Keno card. The EV3 Air continues to But is there a winner? Having just sampled the speak to Kia’s signature Opentry-level EV3, and with posites United language as EV5, 6 and 9, on the dance well as adding its own angle. The Air and Earth front incard down the line, it’s anycorporates Kia Star Map lightbody’s guess. The all-electric small SUV ing and Tiger Face family elehas a lot going for it – sub- ments. Aerodynamics shape the $50k price, comfortable cabin, fuel economy and seven- side view with flowing geoyear warranty – designed metric shapes, taking in flush from the ground up to be a front and hidden rear door handles, complemented no-compromise EV. The EV3 sets its sustainable by Air-specific 17-inch alloy stall out with triple trimlines – wheels. The rear follows the front Air, Earth and GT-Line – the first with a choice between (of course) with further Star Standard and Long-Range Map lighting, with black winbattery set-up and the latter dow frames flowing through the C-pillar to the rear winpair with Long Range only. The test EV3 Air Standard dow. Body dimensions differ acRange is rated for a maximum distance between charges of cording to grade across the EV3 range but share a com436 kilometres. The sustainability flag is mon wheelbase of 2680mm. flown high with Kia’s use of its ‘must have’ environmentally INTERIOR The EV3 takes advantage friendly materials such as BioPE and Bio-PP plastic, leather, of the Kia E-GMP platform, PU Foam, and Bio and BTX- squeezing optimum leg, head and shoulder room out of a free paint. Good use is made of recy- compact exterior. Air occupants, however, cled fishing net, PET yarns miss out on heated and venand felt and fabric. It’s all part of Kia’s bid to be- tilated front seats and heated come a leading sustainable steering wheel. Three different colour commobility provider with more affordable vehicles, accord- binations are spread over the ing to the company’s Austral- EV3 trimlines. Air models feature cloth ian CEO Damien Meredith. As for the latter, the entry- trim. Earth and GT-Line oclevel EV3 Air Standard Range comes to market at $47,600, cupants wallow in artificial plus on-road costs, and tops leather. By DEREK OGDEN, MARQUE MOTORING

AT A GLANCE MODEL LINE-UP: KIA EV3 AIR STANDARD RANGE: $47,600 KIA EV3 AIR LONG RANGE: $53,315 KIA EV3 EARTH LONG RANGE: $58,600 KIA EV3 GT-LINE LONG RANGE: $63,950 NOTE: These prices do not include government of dealer delivery charges. Contact your Kia local dealer for drive-away prices. Earth folk also have the choice between ‘Subtle Grey’ and ‘Light Warm Grey’ artificial leather. Cargo space is generous for its class, 460 litres available in the rear and a 25-litre cubby in the nose. INFOTAINMENT Kia lays claims to a homely theme in the cabin, with minimalist details and soft touch points set off by large touchscreen displays and physical buttons for frequently used functions. These screens are comprised of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 5-inch climate control monitor and 12.3-inch infotainment display with Kia’s latest graphical user interface. Features across the range include Kia Connect, overthe-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto And phone charging. V2L function includes connector kit, and a column-style

shift-by-wire gear selector. There’s hardly a centimetre of space on the double width screen, and some of the info – climate controls, for example – is hidden by the steering wheel spokes. Also, Air owners miss out on an automatic power tailgate. ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS The Kia EV3 Air Standard Range is powered by frontmounted permanent magnet synchronous motor, delivering maximum power of 150kW and torque of 283Nm, mated with a one-speed reduction gear automatic transmission. This is good for a range of up to 436 kilometres. SAFETY The EV3 ticks most of the boxes with active and passive safety. Features across the board include Highway Driving Assist 2, Driver Attention Warn-

ing from sensors built into the steering wheel. A total of seven airbags include a centre side airbag. The rating is dependent on EuroNCAP crash testing which, Kia says, will be available later this year. Kia says a 360-degree camera was not an option because of weight and cost. In its place is a rear-view camera with guidelines, plus front and rear parking sensors. DRIVING The electric ‘charge’ off the mark found in many EVs is not matched by the EV3 in Normal drive mode. Sport mode puts a spark in the action, at the cost of fuel consumption. The Air Standard Range with its 58.3kWh battery consumed close to the claimed 14.9kWh per 100 kilometres by the maker over varied conditions of the drive period. This followed a few door handle dramas with the flush front door access. Some found the opening action hard to cotton onto at first, especially with only one hand free. Practice made perfect, however. Hiding the rear door handle only added to comments of disdain. Did they really save fuel? As far as driver warnings were concerned, there were more chimes than Big Ben. Traffic sign recognition includes an overspeed warning, which had debatable success. The chime can be disabled by holding down the mute

button on the steering wheel, shutting up the overspeed alert, not the sound when the car detects a new speed limit. It’s possible to turn the latter off. Kia puts battery charge times on DC fast charging at 100kW in the Standard Range, and 127kW in the Long Range, for claimed 10 to 80 per cent recharging times of 29 and 31 minutes respectively. AC home charging at up to 10.5kW on three-phase power, or 6.9kW on single-phase, is offered, for a claimed 10 to 100 per cent recharge time of five hours and 20 minutes, to seven hours and 15 minutes on an 11kW home wall box. The test car was timed at 60 minutes for a public station DC fast charge from 36 per cent to 96 per cent. SUMMARY Naturally, the Chinese generally boast more luxury for less money in their EVs. Kia’s EV3 is a competitive rival to these leaders in the small electric SUV segment. RATINGS Looks: 8 Performance: 7 Safety: N/A Thirst: 7 Practicality: 7 Comfort: 6 Tech: 8 Value: 7 SPECIFICATIONS (Kia EV3 Air Standard Range,1sp auto, FWD SUV) STANDARD WARRANTY Seven years / unlimited kilometres Seven-years / 150,000 kilometres, battery

THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025 - Page 13

myrtlefordtimes.com.au

1 - 7 AUGUST | 2025

Amazing family home that offers the lot You can’t go past this perfect lifestyle property in a great location in the popular township of Oxley. The property consists of a 3064m2 lot size with a four-bedroom two-bathroom home with excellent shedding. The main bedroom has a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite with built-in wardrobes to all the other bedrooms. The kitchen area is open plan with

breakfast bar, walk-in pantry, adjoining family living area plus second living/ rumpus room. Heating and cooling are well catered for with ducted refrigerated heating and cooling plus wood combustion heating in the lounge room. Car accommodation is via a double enclosed garage with auto roller door with direct internal access plus separate ga-

rage/workshop approx. 3.5m x 6.8m in size. Water is secure with town water, plus a rainwater tank for toilets and garden water with a solar system to keep your energy bills low. The gardens are established with a chicken run, excellent secure fencing for pets and kids to play. Contact us now to arrange your private inspection.

MORE THAN A SHED, IT’S PEACE OF MIND.

Agent

| Harcourts Wangaratta

Phone

| (03) 5722 9444

Price

| $890,000 - $970,000

Land

| 3064m2

Location | 19 Ely Street, Oxley

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Page 14 - THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025

myrtlefordtimes.com.au

At Your Service

Business Guide (03) 5723 0100 sales@nemedia.com.au

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Great location and low maintenance This immaculate three-bedroom townhouse in a great location is close to schools, walking tracks and easy access to the CBD. 3 1 1 The property consists of three spacious bedrooms, two with built-in wardrobes, Agent | Harcourts Wangaratta and a central bathroom plus a spacious north facing main living area. Phone | (03) 5722 9444 The kitchen has electric cooking, amPrice | $400,000 - $429,000 ple cupboard space, breakfast bar and Land | 279m2 (approx) attached dining area. Heating and cooling are via a split sysLocation | 2/111 Phillipson Street, tem air conditioner plus a recently inWangaratta stalled instant gas HWS. Externally there is a fully enclosed gaThe property is vacant and available rage with remote roller door and direct internal access, extra space for storage for immediate settlement for the new needs plus a secure low maintenance owner to move right in, contact us now for your private inspection. rear yard.

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THE OBSERVER TIMES, Wednesday, 15 THE/ CHRONICLE, Friday, August 6, 1, 2025 - Page 21

myrtlefordtimes.com.au wangarattachronicle.com.au

532m2

74 Cribbes Road, Wangaratta

Prime Renovation Opportunity 19 Wills Street, Wangaratta

Perfect First Home

1 581m2

Walk to Everything

2 Dixon Street, Wangaratta

1 504m2

• A clear project opportunity for those looking to add value • Convenient to Vincent Road shops, Kmart/Coles & CBD

• Single carport with easy access & off-street parking • Ideally positioned near Cathedral College & local shops

• Minutes from medical precinct, supermarkets & sporting • Spacious living with gas heating & evap. cooling

HOUSE FOR SALE

$275,000

$380,000

$385,000

OPEN HOME Saturday 2nd August 11:30-11:45am

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133 Greta Road, Wangaratta

2 623m

Plenty of Opportunities 2

10 Oleary Street, Wangaratta

2 638m2

Lifestyle with Spectacular Views 56 Yarrabee Road, Markwood

16 ha

• Well-maintained, ideal for first home buyers or investors • 17 panel solar electricity system for reduced power bills

• Open plan kitchen with modern appliances • Spacious family/living room, rumpus & paved pergola

• Secure a peaceful lifestyle with panoramic valley views • Ideal to renovate, improve, or rebuild (STCA)

HOUSE FOR SALE

LIFESTYLE FOR SALE

$429,000

Move-In Ready, Sought After Estate 40 Sarakos Circuit, Wangaratta

$489,000

657m

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564 Upper King River Rd, Cheshunt

1 1.59ha

‘Florence Villa’

1527 Wang-Eldorado Rd, Eldorado 8,287m2

• 2024-built home, perfect blend of modern living & style • Stone benchtops, induction cooking & a walk-in pantry

• Expansive 28-acre property in the scenic Cheshunt region • Two dwellings, abundant shedding, spring-fed dam

• Circa 1870s cottage, timeless character & modern comforts • 3 separate titles, established trees & exceptional shedding

HOUSE FOR SALE

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54 Ryley Street, Wangaratta

$768,000

1,099m2

$848,000

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• Planning permit for mixed commercial & residential • Extensive information available to assist with project

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• Major renovation completed in 2019/2020, versatile layout • Three car parks on title – rare in Wangaratta’s CBD

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23 Baker St, Wangaratta | Ph: (03) 5722 2663 | garrynash.com.au |

Page 16 - THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025 MYRTLEFORD

myrtlefordtimes.com.au

THE ALPINE

BY PHONE 5723 0101 PUBLIC NOTICES

POULTRY AUCTION

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO ENTER LEASE As per Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 and in accordance with Council policy, notice is hereby given that Alpine Shire Council intends to enter into a lease with the current occupant and operator of the Myrtleford Bowls Club over a part of the permanently reserved land known as Myrtleford Bowls Club, being part of allotment 20D Section E. Further information can be obtained by contacting Sascha Russell, Property and Contracts Coordinator, at info@alpineshire.vic.gov.au or (03) 5755 0555.

Sunday, August 10, 2025 LLED Commencing ANCE C at 11am at Euroa Showgrounds Bookings essential Catalogue available LAST AUCTION EVER! Ph 0416 151 696 Metrys Auction Co.

Emailyouradvert classifieds@nemedia.com.au

BY EMAIL

classifieds@nemedia.com.au

EMPLOYMENT

Classifieds

WORK!

LYONS, Margaret Ellen. Passed away peacefully at Myrtleford Hospital on Saturday, August 2, 2025. Much loved wife of Brian. Beloved mother of Karen, Gary (dec), Dianne, Christine and Andrew and their partners. Loved Grandma to nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Reunited with Gary. Special thanks to the wonderful staff at Myrtleford Hospital for their care and compassion in her final days and previous visits, also to Northeast Health Wangaratta. Funeral details to follow at a later date.

Classifieds Phone: 03 5723 0101

Mason Park

EMPLOYMENT

You are warmly invited to attend the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Bright Theatre Company Inc., scheduled for: Sunday, 24 August 2025 1pm – 2.45pm Bright Courthouse, 1–3 Park Street, Bright The agenda will include a review of the past year, committee reports, and proposed Changes to the Rules of Association. Nominations for all committee positions are welcome. To nominate, please email: BrightTCsecretary@outlook.com We encourage all members to attend and participate in shaping the future of BTC.

Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au

SMITH (nee Callander), Margaret Pellow.

Outdoor Leadership Traineeship – Certificate IV

12/4/1926 – 24/7/2025 Passed away peacefully in her 100th year at Hawthorn Village, Bright.

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Devoted wife of Gordon “Cobber” (dec). Loved mother of Gordon, Anne, Judi, Chris and their extended families.

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A private cremation has already taken place.

Outdoor School – 15 Mile Creek and Bogong Campuses are seeking, enthusiastic people who have an interest in Outdoor Education to apply for their 2026 traineeship intake. Positions are available at both campuses for a 12-month appointment starting 12 of January 2026. Further information and how to apply is available by calling 03 57666247 or emailing rhys.evans@education.vic.gov.au Applications close Friday 3/9/2025 at 5pm.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS 60TH BIRTHDAY 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 60

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FORD Fairlane Ghia, new tyres, new h/ lining, new exhaust, electric brakes, tow bar, Tickford motor, 163,000km, reg (SHS752), RWC, $9000 ONO. Ph 0438 251 532.

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DESPATCH OFFICER Agri-Gene P/L, Australia’s largest privately owned genetics company located at Wangaratta, has a challenging full-time position available for a Despatch Officer. Duties will include handling of bovine semen and embryos, packing and despatching stocks to A.I. Centres throughout Australia and co-ordinating import and export shipments. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Applicants should be: Computer literate with the ability to learn new systems. Experienced in stock control and inventory systems. Excellent time management and organizational skills. High level of Customer Service and teamwork. Hold a current Drivers Licence. Interest in the A.I. Industry and Animal Breeding is desirable

If you would like to apply for this position, please send your Resume to the General Manager, Chris McIlroy at accounts@agrigene.com.au Applications close Monday, August 4th, 2025.

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THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025 - Page 17

myrtlefordtimes.com.au

SPORT

Presentation day for MiniRoos On Saturday, 2 August, the Myrtleford Savoy Soccer Club MiniRoos celebrated their presentation day lunch at Club Savoy in Myrtleford. A group of 200 players, coaches and families attended with a gourmet pasta smorgasbord on the menu, with everybody thoroughly happy with the verities of pastas and salads. Along with celebrating the success of all of the club’s MiniRoos as they continue to grow into outstanding football players and exceptional representatives of the MSSC, two players were awarded with the brand-new John Hymus Purpetual Trophy. Jhett Talbot and Aiden Kelly each received the trophy for displaying qualities including integrity, commitment, teamwork and strength of character. The MSSC MiniRoos will continue to train through August and will officially finish on Saturday, 6 September with Skillzone Cobram bringing along their blow-up football stadium and barbecue lunch to finish the day.

HONOURED: John Hymus Purpetual Trophy winner Jhett Talbot (left), with Jo Hymus, and Saxon Hymus.

NEXT GENERATION: The nine-to-12 year old group.

RECOGNITION: John Hymus Purpetual Trophy winner Aiden Kelly (left), with Jo Hymus, and Saxon Hymus.

FUTURE STARS: The four-to-eight year old contingent of Myrtleford MiniRoos.

GOLF RESULTS MYRTLEFORD GOLF CLUB Saturday, 2 August Drummond Golf Albury Monthly Medal Stroke & Super 6 AMCR 71 A Grade Winner: Gerard Black (14) 84/70. A Grade Runner Up: Spider Hancock (12) 87/75 c/b. B Grade Winner & Medal: Paul Cowman (21) 87/66. B Grade Runner Up: Jason Sillis (16) 89/73. Super 6 Winner: Paul Cowman (21) 20 nett c/b. Super 6 Runner Up: Jason Sillis (16) 20 nett. Ball Winners: J Martin 75, R Wheeler 75, J Galvan 75, B Carroll 76, T Purss 76. Foodworks NTPs - 4th 2nd Shot: Andrew Loftus, 8th: Gerard Black, 14th: David Clark, 16th: Jim Martin. Raffle Winner: Wayne Kuple. Matthews Cleaning Award: Adam Kuple (18) 110/92. Thursday, 31 July Jo Ross Jackson Hearing Services Stableford AMCR 73 A Grade Winner: Kerry Newton (18) 34pts. A Grade Runner Up: Lizzie Orton (13) 30pts. Ball Winners: Marnie Broz 29pts, Marg Curtis 27pts. Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Wendy Caldwell, 8th: Marg Curtis, 16th: Lizzie Orton. Wednesday, 30 July Jo Ross Jackson Hearing Services Stableford AMCR 71 A Grade Winner: Andrew Loftus (18) 34 pts. A Grade Runner Up: David Clark (15) 33 pts. Ball Winners: P Cowman 31, J Martin 31 T Purss 31. Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Tristan Purss, 4th 2nd Shot: Tristan Purss, 8th: Peter Ellison 14th: George Browne, 16th: George Browne.

BRIGHT COUNTRY GOLF CLUB As someone once said, “In golf as in life, it’s the journey that matters,” - this quote emphasises the value of enjoying the process of striving towards goals, rather than solely focusing on the outcome. All this reflection can only mean one thing, let’s look at how the Bright golfers wandered around the Bright course last week battling a variety of conditions. Monday, 28 July was a very wet and unpleasant day to play golf - due to the course conditions, there were no golf cats, and only four intrepid players played. Winner: John ‘Reddog’ Rudduck 31 pts. Ball winners: Colin Richardson 29, Ray Borschmann 28. NTPs - 6th: John Rudduck, 11th: The Borsch, 16th: Reddog. GREAT EFFORT: Greenkeeper Gerard TOO GOOD: Stuart Cariss took On Wednesday, 30 July, the Bright Black was on fire last Saturday to win home the monthly medal at Mount ladies played a 4BBB Stableford A grade with a net 70. Beauty. competition. MOUNT BEAUTY GOLF CLUB Winners: Robyn McGrath and mond with a net 82 from Liz Harvey, Libby Barker 41 pts C/B. Runners A field of seven ladies played their par net 85. up: Tina Cook and Suzette Heydon NTP second shot on the 18th was three course on Wednesday, 30 July. 41 pts. Karen Etherton. The winner was Ruth Rynehart NTPs - 6th: Robyn McGrath, Monthly Medal was the name of the with 23 points, runner-up was Lynda 11th: Libby Barker, 16th: Robyn game for the men on Saturday, 2 AuBarter with 22 points. gust, which was won by Stuart Cariss McGrath. NTP on the seventh, second shot, Thursday, 31 July, Men’s Stableford with a net 76 from Roger Church with went to Ute Svoboda. comp. net 77 and Neil Tappe with net 78. The men played the front nine on Winners: John O’Shea 16 H/C 37 A total of four players with net 79 Wednesday, 30 July which was won pts C/B, Graham Barrow 19 H/C 37pts, got themselves a ball: Victor Selway, by Roger Church with 15 points. and in third place Frog Thompson 36 Mark Redmond, Stephen Short and Three players, all with 14 points, pts. Rick Biesboer. shared the podium: Mark Redmond, Ball winners: Riley Bacon 34 NTP on the seventh, along with the Ivan Mock and Andrew Cook. Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South pts C/B, John Forbes, 34 pts C/B, NTP on the seventh was Allan Cameron Wickes 34 pts C/B, and Troy Newsagency & Post Office, was Rick Retallick, and the ninth was Mark Stevens 34 pts. Biesboer - Rick also took home the Redmond. NTPs - 3rd: Riley Bacon, no one money on the 18th. The ladies played their monthly on the sixth, 11th: Riley Bacon, 16th: The ninth went to Peter Dilley and stroke comp on Saturday, 2 August Riley Bacon. which was won by Jooyon Kang-Red- the 17th was Dave Browning.

The chicken winner went to John O’Shea with 19 pts, and the NAGA went to Graham McElvenny 21 pts, who was delighted with his ‘City of Mildura Golden Jubilee 1984’ glass, which will go straight to the pool room. On Friday, 1 August, the ladies played a nine-hole par competition. Winner was Jan Bird -2 and the ball winner was Roschelle Harrison -4 nearest the pin went to Gina Losch on the sixth. On Saturday, 2 August, 40 golfers teed off in the all gender stroke event, and the men competed for the August Monthly Medal. Winner: Gavin Hunt 14 H/C nett 69 C/B and medal winner, Peter McGrath 11 H/C nett 69, Graham McElvenny 29 H/C nett 70, Darren Wood 17 H/C nett 71 and Rod Brown 8 H/C nett 72 C/B. Ball winners: Andy Armstrong nett 72, Andrew Palm nett 73, John O’Shea nett 74 C/B, Jason Egbers 74 nett, Tony Chalwell nett 75 C/B and Brendan Raveane nett 75 C/B. NTPs - 3rd: Bill Stonhill, 6th: jackpot, 11th: Peter McGrath, 16th: Andy Armstrong. The NAGA went to Steve Grogan with a magnificent nett 94, but he was delighted with his 1980 Melbourne Cup wine glass. The members draw went to Frog Thompson, who wasn’t around for the presentation, so it jackpots to next week. The Bright Golf Guru question of the week: where did the hundreds of large goldfish come from, that are now happily swimming in the fourth water hole at Bright?

Page 18 - THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025

myrtlefordtimes.com.au

MATCH RESULTS

COOPER BOWMAN WILLIAM PICKETT

UNDER 17 SCOREBOARD Imperials Benalla

3.1 0.2

5.5 12.6 3.7 3.7

UNDER 14 SCOREBOARD 15.9 (99) 5.8 (38)

Tigers Mansfield Blue

GOALS: IMPERIALS: M. Marek 5, B. McMonigle 4, H. Bandt 2, S. Ismale 1, C. Flynn 1, M. O’Sullivan 1, P. Stamp 1. BENALLA: O. Beaton 3, L. Fielding 1, T. Maru 1. BEST: IMPERIALS: C. Flynn, H. Bandt, M. Marek, M. O’Sullivan, B. Benton, R. Canning. BENALLA: J. Fry, B. Cooney, O. Beaton, H. Carter, B. Blackford, M. Willett.

College Centrals

2.5 2.0

5.7 7.13 4.0 4.1

11.20 (86) 4.1 (25)

GOALS: COLLEGE: H. Bowman 3, F. Burgan 2, C. Pasquali 2, J. McGennisken 1, N. Allan 1, H. McKenzie 1, A. Peebles 1. CENTRALS: J. Lewis 1, K. Wohlers 1. BEST: COLLEGE: H. Bowman, A. Peebles, T. Fieldew, S. Reid, H. McKenzie, L. Dillon. CENTRALS: K. Wohlers, R. Parsons, J. Lewis, B. Mawson, E. Cryer, S. Steer.

Kangaroos Mansfield

4.3 10.4 12.8 15.13 (103) 1.1 2.3 4.4 4.6 (30)

GOALS: KANGAROOS: O. Edwards 4, H. Jacka 3, M. Murphy 2, A. Brett 1, O. Reynolds 1, H. Ackerly 1, M. Sacco 1, T. Hunter 1, A. Symons 1. MANSFIELD: T. Kynnersley 2, A. Daniels 1, A. Kipping 1. BEST: KANGAROOS: O. Edwards, O. Reynolds, K. Jackson, M. Sacco, A. Symons, A. Brett. MANSFIELD: C. Purday, T. Kynnersley, J. Turner, Z. Hotton, S. Kynnersley, T. Gerrans.

Myrtleford Tigers

0.2 1.4

1.2 2.3 3.6 4.10

2.6 (18) 7.11 (53)

GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: H. Durling 1, B. Robb 1. TIGERS: M. Benton 3, M. Togolo-Hill 2, M. Correll 1, O. Mullane 1.

1.6 0.1

1.9 2.13 1.5 1.6

UNDER 12 SCOREBOARD 5.15 (45) 5.8 (38)

College Centrals

9.2 12.3 16.7 1.0 1.0 2.1

WEEK

1.3 2.1

1.3 3.2

4.5 (29) 3.2 (20)

3.1 (19) 7.19 (61)

Centrals Benalla Red

1.0 2.4

1.1 4.5

2.3 7.8

3.4 (22) 10.12 (72)

14.11 (95) 8.9 (57)

GOALS: CENTRALS: C. Petts 1, L. Palmer 1, J. Oats 1. BENALLA RED: J. Davies 6, E. Sheehan 2, H. Pickering 1, J. McKenzie 1.

GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: A. Knobel 5, S. Lupo 3, N. Harris 2, X. Millar 2, K. Prott 1, C. Schell 1. MANSFIELD YELLOW: L. Roberts 2, M. Watson 2, J. Hoskin 2, B. Turner 1, C. Martin 1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: A. Knobel, S. Lupo, H. McIntyre, N. Harris, B. Parolin, N. Durling. MANSFIELD YELLOW: M. Watson, B. Turner, C. Martin, J. Hoskin, L. Roberts, C. Howie.

BEST: CENTRALS: L. Palmer, J. Vincent, O. Forster, A. Thayer, B. Mawson, C. Ford. BENALLA RED: J. Davies, E. Sheehan, X. Beriman, T. Smith, H. Kupke, J. McKenzie.

Myrtleford Mansfield Yellow

6.3 2.2

Junior Magpies Bright

3.1 1.2

8.6 14.10 3.8 4.8

3.1 6.3

2.3 0.3

5.2 7.4

7.5 10.7 3.6 5.7

Junior Magpies Bright

5.2 (32) 13.5 (83)

1.1 0.3

1.3 0.5

1.4 4.5

2.5 (17) 7.7 (49)

GOALS: JUNIOR MAGPIES: E. Fulton 1, C. Gardner 1. BRIGHT: N. Herschell 2, . 2, L. Jackson 1, H. Dornom 1, A. Penaluna 1. BEST: JUNIOR MAGPIES: R. Scholes, X. Graham, S. Bell, R. Filipenko, J. Briggs, C. Cook. BRIGHT: N. Herschell, H. Dornom, J. Peace, L. McConnachie, S. Cunico.

Myrtleford Tigers

12.8 (80) 8.8 (56)

3.3 0.0

4.5 7.11 0.2 0.2

8.12 (60) 2.4 (16)

GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: O. Szaraszek 3, C. Maxey 1, N. Michelini 1, K. Heather 1, J. Maxey 1, J. Ives 1. TIGERS: H. Vandersteeg 1, A. Tekesic 1.

GOALS: KANGAROOS: J. Pople 3, M. Coleman 3, H. Edwards 1, B. Jackson 1, U. Holt 1, D. Jeffries 1, S. Lewis 1, R. Mackinnon-Burman 1. BENALLA RED: J. Hart 2, H. Bast 2, E. Sheehan 1, O. Smith 1, T. Mount 1, J. Binion 1. KANGAROOS: M. Coleman, E. Byrne, C. Ackerly, D. Jeffries, J. Pople, C. Kelly. BENALLA RED: J. Pollard, X. De Fazio, T. Mount, C. Pollard, T. Snell, E. McKean.

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: B. McLean, B. Cartwright, R. Hilton, O. Szaraszek, J. Maxey, E. Salvemini. TIGERS: A. Tekesic, H. Vandersteeg, T. Conroy, F. Clare, C. Togolo-Hill, O. Meyer.

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1.0 2.1

GOALS: COLLEGE: H. Dyson 1, R. Allan 1, P. Russell 1, R. Monk 1. KANGAROOS: C. Downing 1, F. Holden 1, M. Batt 1.

GOALS: IMPERIALS: G. Marek 3, B. Letica 1. BENALLA BLACK: R. white 2, J. Williams 2, O. Parker 1, H. Ross 1, O. Wardill 1. BEST: IMPERIALS: J. Campbell, G. Marek, C. Cumming, W. Startin, J. Ambrose, L. Wilson. BENALLA BLACK: H. Ross, N. White, C. Bell, J. Montgomery, R. White, O. Wardill.

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BEST: COLLEGE: R. Allan, A. Jenkins, F. Mckenzie, S. Guley, J. DAY, H. Carson. KANGAROOS: J. Ring, A. Ryan, G. McCurdy, C. Downing, M. Tucker, Z. Ivory.

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BEST: JUNIOR MAGPIES: J. Holmes, K. Ross, J. McNeill, L. Sexton, M. James, A. Scholes. BRIGHT: H. West, J. Thomson, B. Brady, A. Toy, a. murrells, C. Garratt.

1.2 3.1

GOALS: COLLEGE: L. OBrien 10, R. Monk 4, L. Pensak 2, C. Bowman 1, T. Llewellyn 1, C. OBrien 1, B. Jessup 1, H. Ledger 1. CENTRALS: N. Jones 1, C. Richards 1, H. Boyle 1. BEST: COLLEGE: L. OBrien, R. Monk, J. Borschmann, C. Bowman, W. Pickett, T. Llewellyn. CENTRALS: H. Muraca, A. Fraser, N. Jones, W. Boulton, D. Hogarth, J. Morris.

Junior Magpies Bright

GOALS: JUNIOR MAGPIES: J. Parker 2, S. McIntosh 1. BRIGHT: T. Brierty 7, E. Lodge 4, C. Garratt 3, B. Brady 3, R. Logan 2, O. Dalbosco 2, a. murrells 1,

1.2 2.0

GOALS: IMPERIALS: M. Allisey 1. BENALLA BLACK: J. Jackson 2, C. Thwaites 2, T. Brown 2, J. Quarrell 1, J. Crook 1, B. King 1.

21.9 (135) 3.3 (21)

BEST: MYRTLEFORD: N. Robb, A. Morgan, B. McMasters, J. Thompson, S. Muraca, M. McMahon. TIGERS: A. Turner, M. Togolo-Hill, S. Morey, M. Correll, O. Mullane, T. Tilbrook.

3.0 3.0 3.0 (18) 8.6 13.10 22.15 (147)

Imperials Benalla Black

GOALS: TIGERS: L. Benton 3, T. McCully 1, B. Kantor 1. MANSFIELD BLUE: O. Pigdon 2, J. Kynnersley 2, M. Storer 1. BEST: TIGERS: L. Benton, J. Robinson, M. Flanigan, M. Simpson, T. McCully, H. Sharp. MANSFIELD BLUE: J. Kynnersley, R. Purday, H. Shevlin, T. Bowen, H. George, B. Bruce.

GOALS: JUNIOR MAGPIES: J. Nesbitt 2, L. Sloan 1, S. Patterson 1, L. Bott 1. BRIGHT: O. Kelly 4, B. McConnachie 4, H. Bruneau 2, E. Thomson 1, D. Finlaw 1, K. Buckland 1. BEST: JUNIOR MAGPIES: J. Pell, J. Olenczuk, L. Cannata, B. McLeod, G. Thomas, J. Vincent. BRIGHT: O. Kelly, H. Bruneau, D. Garratt, W. Bailey, X. Paul, B. McConnachie.

1.0 6.2

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THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025 - Page 19

myrtlefordtimes.com.au

SPORT

Six in a row for finalsbound Bombers

LOFTED: Scott peggie crosses the ball in. PHOTOS: Janet Watt

Savoy men one win from undefeated year

By NATHAN DE VRIES

It was another exceptional performance from Myrtleford’s division one men’s side, who managed a 3-2 triumph in their Sunday match with Albury City. After securing their second consecutive league title last week, they could be forgiven for parking the bus and taking it easy until finals, but the team’s made of sterner stuff than that. With the lure of an undefeated league season very much a possibility, the side ripped into their match,

with Azia Feltrin slipping one by the keeper in the 18th minute. City levelled it in the 39th, but Feltrin extended the lead once again immediately, with Savoy leading 2-1 at the break. Tom Morrison struck in the 80th and Savoy went on the defensive, with City only managing to find a penalty deep into stoppage time. Senior coach Jayden Vescio was impressed with the drive from the players after winning the league last week. “It was a good, well-rounded team

DOUBLE TROUBLE: A brace to Azia Feltrin helped Savoy post their 16th win for the season.

performance on Sunday,” he said. “You can get a bit complacent after winning the league, but this group I’ve got now, I could tell they weren’t going to let that one slip, they’ve got a real emphasis on going unbeaten in the league. “They probably got on top for the first 10 minutes of the second half – they obviously got us in that [FA] cup game earlier in the year and they’ve scored a lot of goals, the same if not more than us, but they’ve leaked quite a few. “They got on top for about 10 min-

WIDE ADVANCE: Matt Park brings the ball up the wing.

utes where we defended really well as a unit, we had 10 players behind the ball. “They weren’t really penetrating with their attacks, but they probably got on top for the best part of 15 minutes, but we were able to wrest some momentum back.” Savoy will take this weekend off with the bye before rounding out their home and away season with a home game agaisnt Melrose FC. The reserve men took a 2-1 win over Albury City, while the division one women had the bye.

CONTEST: Josh Zito wins the header.

A sixth-straight win for Dederang-Mount Beauty’s A grade netball side sees them hold on to fourth spot on the TDNA ladder after a 15-goal victory on Saturday. The away trip to Mitta has caused headaches in the past but the Bombers had no such trouble this time around, leading from start to finish in the comfortable 56-41 win. A nine-goal lead at the first break ballooned to 15 at the second, which ended up being the final at the end of four quarters, with Mitta staying level with the finals-bound Bombers in the second half. Captain and shooter Alysha de Koeyer owned the attacking goal circle with 44 goals, while Keely Bullivant provided great support with 12 of her own. Coach Alex Dyde was stoked with how the game, and first half in particular, panned out. “I think the most impressive bit of the game was our ability to remain unshaken even when Mitta were putting up lots of different combinations against us,” Dyde said. “A ripper first quarter helped set us up for the rest of the game too, which is what we will need to do over the next few weeks.” In what will be arguably their toughest two-week block of the year so far, Dederang-Mount Beauty will face KiewaSandy Creek (home) and Thurgoona (away) to finish the regular season. “Kiewa undoubtedly will put up a strong contest, particularly as they’ll be hungry for a win after their loss this week,” Dyde said. “I’d like to see us play the game and plays we want to play, focusing on our strengths in order to put a strong contest forward and solidify our set plays going into finals.” In Tallangatta league senior football, DederangMount Beauty were soundly beaten by Mitta United by 162 points last weekend. On a great day for free-flowing football, the Bombers put the brakes on the Mountain Men to trail by 14 points at quarter time, but Mitta opened the floodgates with 26 goals in the remaining three quarters. The 4.5 (29) to 30.11 (191) loss leaves Dederang-Mount Beauty winless with two rounds to go.

Page 20 - THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025

myrtlefordtimes.com.au

WINNERS AND LOSERS

ROUND

OVENS AND MURRAY SENIORS LADDER #

TEAM

1 WANGARATTA ROVERS 2 LAVINGTON 3 MYRTLEFORD 4 NORTH ALBURY 5 WANGARATTA 6 WODONGA 7 ALBURY 8 YARRAWONGA 9 COROWA RUTHERGLEN 10 WODONGA RAIDERS

B PTS

15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15

12 11 10 10 9 8 7 5 3 0

3 4 5 5 6 7 8 10 12 15

1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0

48 44 40 40 36 32 28 20 12 0

SCOREBOARD %

150.72 139.74 143.88 132.09 117.97 113.79 83.44 73.82 81.92 39.40

NETBALL SCORES

THIRDS RESULTS

A GRADE

North Albury 4.6 (30) def by Wangaratta 13.7 (85)

Lavington 29 def by Wodonga Raiders 42 Wodonga 40 def by Corowa Rutherglen 67 Albury 44 def Myrtleford 46 Wang Rovers 34 def by Yarrawonga 71 Nth Albury 51 def Wangaratta 38

GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: C. Dickson 1, H. Westmoreland 1, C. Spencer 1, M. Bowler 1. WANGARATTA: H. Barry 4, C. Petersen 3, W. Prebble 2, J. Parker 2, C. Newton 1, H. Laverty 1. BEST: NORTH ALBURY: C. O’Rourke, T. Mcintosh, W. Harrington, J. Eckhardt, C. Singe. WANGARATTA: O. Boyle, E. Clayton, D. O’Sullivan, J. Scheier, H. Barry.

Albury 14.20 (104) def Myrtleford 3.4 (22)

B GRADE

Lavington 34 def by Wodonga Raiders 40; Wodonga 46 def by Corowa Rutherglen 48; Albury 32 def Myrtleford 30; Wang Rovers 36 def by Yarrawonga 53; Nth Albury 30 def by Wangaratta 36

GOALS: ALBURY: R. O’Sullivan 3, R. Tinworth 2, M. Field 2, J. Quade 1, L. Reid 1, N. Conway 1, J. Whiting 1, E. Wallgate 1, D. Dunstan 1, B. Davies 1. MYRTLEFORD: L. Masin 2, C. Ashworth 1. BEST: ALBURY: J. Quade, I. Schirmer, J. Whiting, B. Davies, D. Dunstan, R. Tinworth. MYRTLEFORD: C. Ashworth, O. Benson, N. McMonagle, T. Cooper, N. Robb, W. Graham.

C GRADE

Lavington 31 def Wodonga Raiders 23; Wodonga 47 def Corowa Rutherglen 35; Albury 22 def by Myrtleford 68; Wang Rovers 41 def Yarrawonga 31; Nth Albury 30 def by Wangaratta 51

Wangaratta Rovers 11.11 (77) def Yarrawonga 3.9 (27)

17 & UNDER

GOALS: WANGARATTA ROVERS: J. Correll 5, H. Dodgshun 1, E. Saunders 1, C. Breheny 1, C. Ormond 1, Z. O’Shannessy 1, C. Lugg 1. YARRAWONGA: S. Trembath 1, L. Henley 1, T. Baxter 1. BEST: WANGARATTA ROVERS: J. Allan, T. Ford, C. Flynn, C. Lugg, H. Mullane, J. Correll. YARRAWONGA: L. Wren, B. McDonald, S. Bigger, S. Trembath, T. Clarkson, X. Mitchell.

Lavington 31 def by Wodonga Raiders 52; Wodonga 38 def by Corowa Rutherglen 43; Albury 40 def by Myrtleford 45; Wang Rovers 58 def Yarrawonga 31; Nth Albury 33 def by Wangaratta 50 15 & UNDER

Lavington 25 def by Wodonga Raiders 44; Wodonga 75 def Corowa Rutherglen 20; Albury 19 def by Myrtleford 54; Wang Rovers 27 def by Yarrawonga 37; Nth Albury 41 def Wangaratta 35

Wodonga 6.12 (48) def Corowa R’glen 6.7 (43) Lavington 5.10 (40) def Wod. Raiders 4.10 (34)

ALBURY MYRTLEFORD

2.4 4.5 5.0 10.4

5.6 6.10.46 14.6 21.9.135

WODONGA COROWA R’GLEN

3.2 5.4 3.0 4.3

13.4 7.6

NORTH ALBURY WANGARATTA

1.2 5.10 2.4 3.4

5.10 13.14.92 3.4 10.8.68

WANG ROVERS YARRAWONGA

4.5 5.5 0.1 6.5

8.9 14.16.100 6.5 9.6.60

GOALS: ALBURY: L. Dattoli 2, K. Heiner-Hennessy 2, L. Conlan 1, M. Bender 1. MYRTLEFORD: B. Ricardi 5, L. Murphy-Dale 5, R. Sharp 2, D. Harrington 2, B. Calogero 1, D. Bren 1, T. Cappellari 1, L. Miotto 1, J. East 1, T. Cossor 1, M. Munro 1. BEST: ALBURY: M. Byrne, J. Gaynor, J. Kelly, B. Kelly, M. Walker, D. Pattinson. MYRTLEFORD: K. Agosta, B. Ricardi, J. East, D. Harrington, L. Murphy-Dale, D. Batey.

15.7.97 11.8.74

GOALS: WODONGA: J. Hymus 3, J. Cassidy 3, T. Miller 2, R. Bourke 2, J. O’sullivan 1, T. O’Sullivan 1, A. Jorgensen 1, M. Wilson 1, K. Mimmo 1. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: J. Foote 2, A. Curry 2, C. Schutt 2, R. Murphy 1, E. Amery 1, K. Bradtke 1, J. Longmire 1, B. Kantilla 1. BEST: WODONGA: A. Jorgensen, C. Morrison, G. Crothers, J. Hymus, M. Wilson, J. Cassidy. Corowa Rutherglen: J. Eyers, R. Irvin, J. Rowston, J. Cresswell, B. Morton, J. Longmire.

GOALS: NORTH ALBURY: J. Penny 2, F. Gardiner 1, J. Murphy 1, C. Winter 1, K. Flack 1, B. Rigoni 1. WANGARATTA: H. Gottschling 2, M. Hedin 1. BEST: NORTH ALBURY: J. Pope, J. Weidemann, F. Gardiner, J. Penny, F. Gardiner, B. Rigoni. WANGARATTA: M. Grossman, M. Bordignon, T. Norton, H. Gottschling, D. Sharrock, A. Federico.

GOALS: WANGARATTA ROVERS: N. Cooper 4, W. Christie 4, N. Scholte 2, L. O’Brien 2, s. rourke 1, D. Wilson 1. YARRAWONGA: B. Coghill 2, J. James 1, B. Kennedy 1, B. Schofield 1, N. Fothergill 1, N. Irvine 1, C. Wilson 1, C. Courtney 1. BEST: WANGARATTA ROVERS: N. Cooper, C. Ledger, S. Booth, B. Paul, W. Christie, W. Nolan. YARRAWONGA: C. Wilson, N. Irvine, B. Kennedy, B. Coghill, Z. Fraser, M. Findlay.

RESERVES RESULTS Wang Rovers........ 21.14 (140) Yarrawonga.............. 3.6 (24) BEST: WANGARATTA ROVERS: S. Comensoli, T. Vincent, W. Ashton, O. Clelland, M. Cullen, P. Coleman. YARRAWONGA: M. Grinter, D. Flanagan, A. Kealy, D. Walsh-hall, T. Dowling, R. Bone. Wodonga ��10.7 (67) Corowa R’glen ��7.9 (51) BEST: WODONGA: C. Garoni, D. Cameron, J. Gilbee, R. Thompson, D. Norman, H. Venturoni. COROWA RUTHERGLEN: H. Canning, C. Bertram, B. Minogue, J. Richardson, F. Parker, J. Ugle. North Albury ��8.13 (61) Wangaratta ��5.9 (39) BEST: NORTH ALBURY: C. McIntosh, J. King, A. Crelley, J. Spurr, R. Wall, C. Hetherton. WANGARATTA: M. Bihun, J. Hedin, A. Johnstone, C. Ross, C. Hines. Lavington �� 18.20 (128 Wodonga Raiders ��4.2 (26) BEST: LAVINGTON: J. Phegan, D. Finnimore, L. Gaffney, K. Williams, P. Flood, S. Hargreave. WODONGA RAIDERS: A. Sinclair, C. Howells, J. Cannell, B. Knights, D. Ramage, T. Scott. Albury ��6.9 (45) Myrtleford ��10.8 (68) BEST: ALBURY: N. Morrison, B. Hodgson, E. Moore, D. Buntin, J. Moran, O. Sharman. MYRTLEFORD: J. Gribbin, N. Ferguson, R. Forrest, N. Turner, R. Grant, L. Young.

ROUND 16 LAVINGTON WOD. RAIDERS

7.1 12.4 1.3 4.3

14.5 19.10.124 5.5 6.8.44

GOALS: LAVINGTON: T. Oosterhoff 7, A. Cook 3, J. O’Brien 2, A. Swinnerton 1, D. Smith 1, J. Glanvill 1, S. Driscoll 1, E. Perryman 1, P. Ryan 1, T. Hargreave 1. WODONGA RAIDERS: N. Clarke 3, B. O’Neill 1, C. Smith 1, A. Scammell 1. BEST: LAVINGTON: J. Glanvill, E. Perryman, A. Swinnerton, D. Beavan, N. Newton, T. Oosterhoff. WODONGA RAIDERS: W. Fordham, J. Casey, A. Scammell, N. Clarke, C. St John, H. Cribbes.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 9 COROWA RUTHERGLEN VS WANG ROVERS MYRTLEFORD VS WODONGA YARRAWONGA VS NORTH ALBURY WANGARATTA VS LAVINGTON ALBURY VS RAIDERS

WINNERS AND LOSERS

ROUND

OVENS AND KING SENIORS LADDER

SCOREBOARD

TEAM 1 BRIGHT 2 GRETA 3 MILAWA 4 BONNIE DOON 5 WHOROULY 6 GOORAMBAT

P 16 16 17 16 16 16

W 14 14 13 10 9 9

L 2 2 4 6 7 7

D 0 0 0 0 0 0

B 2 2 1 2 2 2

PTS % 56 245.45 56 192.71 52 198.37 40 116.75 36 114.37 36 110.94

7 NORTH WANGARATTA 8 TARRAWINGEE 9 MOYHU 10 KING VALLEY 11 BENALLA ALL BLACKS

16 17 16 16 16

6 5 4 4 1

10 12 12 12 15

0 0 0 0 0

2 1 2 2 2

24 20 16 16 4

96.88 58.58 75.88 66.05 23.89

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

NETBALL SCORES A GRADE: Greta 34 def by Tarrawingee 44; Bright 45 def by Moyhu 47; Whorouly 63 def Nth Wang 21; Benalla 32 def by Milawa 58; Goorambat 30 def by Bonnie Doon 45 B GRADE: Greta 41 drew with Tarrawingee 41; Bright 47 def Moyhu 40; Whorouly 65 def Nth Wang 32; Benalla 23 def by Milawa 66; Goorambat 38 def by Bonnie Doon 43 B RESERVE: Greta 42 def Tarrawingee 36; Bright 40 def Moyhu 37; Whorouly 52 def Nth Wang 21; Benalla 26 def Milawa 25; Goorambat 21 def by Bonnie Doon 55 C GRADE: Greta 55 def Tarrawingee 21; Bright 37 def Moyhu 31; Whorouly 43 def Nth Wang 23; Benalla 30 def by Milawa 41; Goorambat 14 def by Bonnie Doon 84 15 & UNDER: Greta 37 def Tarrawinge 26; Bright 42 def Moyhu 21; Whorouly 54 def Nth Wang 14; Benalla 66 def Milawa 25; Goorambat 3 def by Bonnie Doon 123 Not all scores available at time of print

ROUND 19 SATURDAY, AUGUST 9 WHOROULY vs BRIGHT TARRAWINGEE vs MOYHU BONNIE DOON vs GRETA NTH WANGARATTA vs KING VALLEY BENALLA vs GOORAMBAT MILAWA- BYE

GRETA TARRAWINGEE

5.3 9.8 14.10 18.16.124 1.2 2.3 2.6 3.8.26

WHOROULY NTH WANGARATTA

8.0 13.2 2.1 3.5

BRIGHT MOYHU

10.3 15.4 24.10 28.16.184 1.1 2.5 3.6 5.8.38

BENALLA MILAWA

0.1 0.3 0.4 2.5.17 12.4 22.7 31.11 36.16.232

GOORAMBAT BONNIE DOON

2.3 4.8 4.3 6.6

GOALS: GRETA: H. Moran 5, B. Newbold 5, L. Kennett 3, J. McClounan 2, C. Crawford 1, T. Rosser 1, T. Cheer 1. TARRAWINGEE: S. Piper 2, O. Sharp 1. BEST: GRETA: L. Kennett, C. Crawford, B. Newbold, J. McClounan, M. Wettern, T. Baker. TARRAWINGEE: S. Piper, T. Heywood, C. Chamberlain, O. Sharp, A. Amery, D. Hogarth.

20.3 22.4.136 4.8 9.9.63

GOALS: WHOROULY: M. Newton 10, J. Newton 3, A. Newton 3, L. Moore 2, P. Glanville 1, J. Smith 1, D. Hoy-Maroney 1, M. Scott 1. NORTH WANGARATTA: C. Smith 3, J. Kemp 2, T. Schulze 1, J. Devine 1, J. Adamo 1, D. Killen 1. BEST: WHOROULY: M. Newton, M. Scott, R. Eden, J. Smith, J. Bihun, D. O’Shannessy. NORTH WANGARATTA: T. Schulze, M. Curtis, H. Fraser, B. Raggett, J. Nanson, C. Smith.

GOALS: BRIGHT: C. Thomason 16, C. Banks 3, R. Bacon 2, H. Jamieson 1, T. Thomason 1, L. Quirk 1, S. Dalbosco 1, P. Sullivan 1, P. Bren 1, J. Crawley 1. MOYHU: W. Johnson 1, J. Hansted 1, D. West 1. BEST: BRIGHT: C. Thomason, L. Quirk, J. Gray, W. Wales, C. Banks, S. Dalbosco. MOYHU: P. McNamara, G. Hearn, B. Zimmermann, C. Gibson, M. Thrum, D. Carmody.

GOALS: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: D. Sinclair 1, B. Marlborough 1. MILAWA: B. Bartlett 19, B. Kearns 6, J. Goddard 3, A. Law 3, H. Graham 1, J. Lea 1, R. Mckay 1, N. Congram 1, C. York 1. BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: B. Marlborough, S. Cox, M. Ryan, K. Linke, A. Hillaire, R. Nedeljkovic. MILAWA: B. Bartlett, B. Kearns, T. Dunn, A. Law, J. Owen, N. Congram.

6.9 12.12.84 13.6 18.9.117

GOALS: GOORAMBAT: D. Haebich 3, B. Stepien 3, J. Webb 1, B. Reaburn 1, S. Gladstone 1, J. Costigan 1, A. Ellis 1, J. Priest 1. BONNIE DOON: J. Magro 7, J. Sanford 5, J. Curtin 3, A. Brkljacic 1, L. Berriman 1, J. Malan 1. BEST: GOORAMBAT: M. Priest, J. Costigan, V. Butler, J. Webb, S. Emmett, C. Anker. BONNIE DOON: J. Magro, J. Sanford, J. Fox, P. Cairns, F. Butterworth, J. Curtin.

RESERVES RESULTS Goorambat ��2.1 (13) Bonnie Doon �� 16.14 (110) BEST: GOORAMBAT: J. Hill, W. Hyland, G. Kirk, J. Sloan, J. Bramich, D. Barber. BONNIE DOON: C. Turner, T. Smith, M. Tait, A. Marshall, C. Cummins, W. Lockhart. Greta �� 19.19 (133) Tarrawingee ��6.2 (38) BEST: GRETA: C. Hernandez, S. Mcleod, J. Reid, B. Hogan, D. Murphy, D. Cassidy. TARRAWINGEE: R. Benton, W. Phillips, C. Fitzgerald, B. Hamill, M. Smith, H. Ormond. Benalla All Blacks ��3.2 (20) Milawa �� 33.14 (212) BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: B. Marlborough, D. Whitelaw-Orton, M. Jacobs, C. Orton, J. Smith, A. McNab. MILAWA: J. Stevenson, D. Farley, L. Niklaus, J. Baker-Swain, S. Pane, T. Leslie. Bright �� 15.11 (101) Moyhu ��6.3 (39) BEST: BRIGHT: P. Crocombe, D. McCormick, J. Higgs, P. Harrison, S. Cinquegrana, M. Kinthari. MOYHU: R. Hargreaves, L. Reynolds, Z. Salta, D. Carmody, B. Booth, A. Welsh. Whorouly ��12.16 (88) North Wangaratta ��5.5 (35) BEST: WHOROULY: W. Allen, B. Harrington, G. White, T. Crook, J. Penn, D. Gephart. NORTH WANGARATTA: C. Dagoli, B. Schulz-Dahlenburg, J. Brown, A. Knights, L. Clark, R. Delahunty. LADDER 56 284.15 1 Bright 52 292.29 2 Greta 3 Bonnie Doon 52 259.14 52 247.32 4 Milawa 5 Whorouly 40 147.31 6 Nth Wangaratta 24 93.10 20 66.04 7 Moyhu 8 King Valley 20 57.16 9 Tarrawingee 20 52.13 16 30.83 10 Goorambat 11 Benalla All Blacks 4 20.27

myrtlefordtimes.com.au

ROUND

MATCH REVIEWS

THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025 - Page 21

Lions locked: Whorouly seniors guarantee finals spot in clean sweep of Hawks Whorouly’s senior footballers confirmed their presence in September action at home against North Wangaratta on Saturday. It was a massive day for the club, which saw senior coach Michael Newton kick his 100th goal for the season, and defender Paul Glanville play his 327th senior match, a new club record. Newton’s century came within minutes of the start of the match against the Hawks, as Whorouly powered to victory 22.4 (136) to 9.9 (63). It was a dominant display from the Lions early, booting eight goals to two in the first quarter as North Wangaratta struggled to control the footy and use it effectively. The Hawks kept fighting, but couldn’t make the most of their opportunities, while Whorouly’s precision in front of goal led to a 57-point halftime margin. Momentum would continue to flow Whorouly’s way as tempers flared, and the Hawks were unable to make any inroads until the final term. Coming out of three quarter time trailing by 91 points, North Wangaratta managed to pare it back to a 73-point margin after the Lions put the cues in the rack. Newton finished with 10 goals, while Max Scott and Darcy O’Shannessy kept the pressure on down back, and for the Hawks, Tyler Schulze,

CENTURION: MICHAEL NEWTON BECAME THE FIRST PLAYER TO KICK 100 GOALS IN THE 2025 SENIOR SEASON.

BY NATHAN DE VRIES

ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

Matt Curtis and Corey Smith were named in the best. The result guarantees the seniors will see finals action for the first time since the 2019 season. They won’t be alone, with the reserves putting together a 12.16 (88) to 5.5 (35) win, sitting fifth overall with two matches to play. After a slow start, the Lions built quarter on quarter, with the only downside coming from inaccuracy in front of the sticks. Will Allen played a brilliant game out on the wing, providing deadly transition play, while Glenn White, Ben Harrington and Tom Crook all impressed. Over on the netball court, it was a clean sweep for the Lions, with A grade (63-21), B grade (65-32), B reserve (52-21), C grade (43-23) and under 15 (54-14) all recording mammoth wins. Out of the club’s seven teams in football and netball, five are in contention for finals. This weekend will see the second edition of the alpine derby, with the Lions hosting Bright for what should be seven incredible matches across the day in football and netball.

SHARP PASS: Tayla Allen looks to fire a quick pass into the shooting circle. PHOTOS: Nathan de Vries

STAUNCH DEFENCE: Max Scott and Paul Glanville combine to spoil the mark down in the Lions’ backline.

OVER THE TOP: Sally Wood lobs a pass over the Hawks midcourters.

Thomason’s sweet 16 seals double chance

DOMINATION: Cooper Thomason, pictured earlier in the season, slammed on 16 goals against the hapless Hoppers.

A triple-digit win from Bright on Saturday has cemented their place in the top two on the Ovens and King senior football competition. Finishing in first or second place guarantees the Mountain Men a place in the preliminary final at worst because of the week off and second chance, which is a luxury they did not have on their way to grand final appearances in 2023 and 2024. To make the victory even more memorable, star forward Cooper Thomason carved up the Moyhu defence and put on a display of

forward craft rarely ever seen on the hallowed turf of Pioneer Park, which was undoubtedly the highlight of the 28.16 (184) to 5.8 (38) thrashing against Moyhu. An incredible 16-goal haul of the team’s 28 majors takes Thomason within seven goals of the magical milestone of 100, with two games to reach the tally. Team of the year contender Cy Banks added three goals to join the party, the silky Riley Bacon chipped in with two, while seven other players kicked one. Milawa, who are currently in third place and have a bye this

weekend before taking on Bonnie Doon, won’t be able to make up the one game and almost fifty per cent difference, even if Bright happened to lose their remaining two matches against Whorouly and King Valley. The in-form Lions have a habit of lifting for big games at home, and in the battle between Whorouly (fifth) and Bright (first), this could be a lot closer than their current ladder positions suggest. An almost-certain finals appearance for Bright’s A grade netball side is now clouded in

uncertainty after a shock 45-47 defeat to seventh-placed Moyhu. The Hoppers, who are now only two premiership points behind Bright, made better use of their attacking forays and were much more efficient in front of the post. With the match all square at 34-34 with a quarter to go, Moyhu held their nerve to win by two away from home. Bright will now need to win at least one of their next two games, then hope that other results fall their way, to end their finals absence in the top division.

Page 22 - THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025

ROUND

OUTPLAYED: Emma Sharp, pictured in an earlier match, and the Saints went down by eight goals to the Albury Tigers.

myrtlefordtimes.com.au

MATCH REVIEWS Heartbreak for A grade; C grade and juniors thriving Myrtleford went down in their A grade clash with Albury Tigers on the weekend after leading at halftime. The Saints held the advantage by four goals at the mid-match break, but ultimately couldn’t hold on to the lead, falling 3644. It was scintillating netball early doors, as the Saints shot out to a

13-9 lead after 15 minutes, a margin they maintained through the second term. However, Albury would bring themselves back through the third, flipping the script to lead the Saints by three heading into the last 15 minutes. It was all Albury through the fourth, as the Tigers capitalised on turnovers and shot cleanly, out-

performing Myrtleford across the court. The A grade Saints sit eighth on the ladder with a 3-12 record, but other grades are simply flying through the season C grade continued their domination of the league with a 68-22 smashing of the Tigers, with the Saints two games clear on top of the ladder.

OUT IN SPACE: Ja xon East takes an easy uncontested mar k.

They’ll more than likely be joined in finals by the under 15 and under 17 Saints squads, who also sit in the top three. The juniors flew the flag on the weekend, with the under 17s holding off a challenge from Albury to take the win 45-40, while the under 15s hammered the Tigers 54-19. B grade suffered another loss, falling agonisingly short, 30-32.

RUCK CRAFT: Toby

. Cossor gets the tap

MASTERFUL: Small forward Brody Ricardi lit up the second quarter with four goals.

PASSION: Lachlan Murphy-Dale roars after slotting one of his five goals for the match.

COUNTERPUNCH: Kye Agosta’s ball use off the half back line PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie gave the Saints plenty of counterattack capability.

Senior Saints in red-hot form ahead of finals, kick season-high 135 points in Tiger hunt ■ From back page

“We knew we had to keep the ball moving, and I think we had 25 marks inside 50, which is just an extraordinary number when we average about 10 or 11, and that gave us plenty of looks at goal. “The thing that stood out the most is we were able to cash in on our opportunities – I think we kicked 21.9 whereas last time we played them we kicked 9.21 so that definitely helps. “We spoke about that at three quarter time, that we hadn’t really capitalised on those three quarter

time leads, and it was a really mature way to finish the last quarter.” Kye Agosta at centre half back ran the show, racking up 23 disposals and six marks, while Ricardi and Murphy-Dale finished with five goals apiece. Consistent ball-winners Jaxon East (26 disposals, one goal), Bowen Calogero (25, one goal) and Mitch Tenardi (23, five tackles) were impactful throughout, while Matt Munro and Josh Muraca were driving the Saints forward with six inside 50s each. “Kye was outstanding at centre half back for us, that was his

best game for us,” Millar said. “He’s been quite lively in a number of performances throughout the year, but that was his best fourquarter performance. “Lachy Murphy-Dale just had a really consistent four-quarter match. “Brody Ricardi hadn’t had the best last month – his tackling numbers and score involvements have been really high but he hadn’t been hitting the scoreboard, he’s been working hard over the last month, so I was pleased he was able to get a return on his effort.

“Brody’s second quarter was one to remember, he could’ve easily kicked five or six goals, and it really changed the momentum of the game.” The win solidifies Myrtleford’s position in the top three with less than a month until finals, but it’s going to be a tough run home. The Saints are due to face Wangaratta Rovers (first) and North Albury (fourth) in the run-up to finals, but they’ll first have to get through the sixth-placed Wodonga Bulldogs, who embarrassed the tricolours in their earlier meeting. “We’ve probably got the toughest

run home with Wodonga, Rovers and North Albury,” Millar said. “If we win this, I think it helps [secure finals], but our focus at the moment is not what three or four weeks could look like, it’s about trying to get as many consistent performances as we can, and if we’re good enough to get to finals, we’ll get there. “All our energy is going into beating the Bulldogs this week.” In other matches, it was a successful day for the reserves, who took the win 10.8 (68) to 6.9 (45), while the thirds fought hard in their 3.4 (22) to 14.20 (104) loss.

BUSINESS

myrtlefordtimes.com.au

Footy2025

THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025 - Page 23

AFL

TIPPING

Collingwood Geelong St Kilda Brisbane Gold Coast Fremantle Greater Western Sydney Western Bulldogs Adelaide

TIPSTER

Collingwood Geelong Richmond Brisbane Gold Coast Fremantle Greater Western Sydney Western Bulldogs Adelaide

Rebecca Healy

Last week: 8

TIPSTER

30 Ovens St, Wangaratta P: 03 5722 9600 W: travelncruise.com.au

ROUND 22

Collingwood Geelong St Kilda Brisbane Gold Coast Port Adelaide Greater Western Sydney Western Bulldogs Adelaide

Helen Haines

TIPSTER

THURSDAY AUGUST 7 Hawthorn vs. Collingwood (MCG)

Cameron Alexander

NEVIN LENNE GROSS

HELEN HAINES MP

ALEXANDERS FIRST NATIONAL

5752 1255 57 Clyde St Myrtleford

5721 7077 117 Murphy St Wangaratta

5755 1944 107 Gavan St Bright

www.nlgsolicitors.com.au

www.helenhaines.org

www.brightfirstnational.com.au

TOTAL: 133

Collingwood Geelong St Kilda Brisbane Gold Coast Fremantle Greater Western Sydney Western Bulldogs Adelaide

TIPSTER

Last week: 8

TOTAL: 132

Collingwood Geelong St Kilda Brisbane Gold Coast Fremantle Greater Western Sydney Western Bulldogs Adelaide

Mark Ditcham

TIPSTER

Last week: 7

TOTAL: 130

TIPSTER

Steven Prince

0400 494 128

5752 1151 47 Clyde St, Myrtleford 104 Gavan St Bright

Hawthorn Geelong St Kilda Brisbane Gold Coast Fremantle Greater Western Sydney Western Bulldogs Adelaide

TIPSTER

Hawthorn Geelong St Kilda Brisbane Gold Coast Fremantle Greater Western Sydney Western Bulldogs Adelaide

Geoff Zach

TIPSTER

Last week: 7

www.ovib.com.au

TIPSTER

Brisbane Lions vs. Sydney

SUNDAY AUGUST 10 GWS Giants vs. North Melbourne (Manuka Oval)

Melbourne vs. Western Bulldogs (MCG)

West Coast vs. Adelaide (Optus Stadium)

TOTAL: 125

LEADERBOARD

Collingwood Geelong St Kilda Brisbane Gold Coast Fremantle Greater Western Sydney Western Bulldogs Adelaide

Jo Ross-Jackson

(MCG)

(Adelaide Oval)

5755 1932 104 Gavan St Bright

TOTAL: 127

Richmond vs. St Kilda

Port Adelaide vs. Fremantle

OVENS VALLEY INSURANCE BROKERS

Last week: 8

SATURDAY AUGUST 9

(Marvel Stadium)

FOUR PEAKS REAL ESTATE

TOTAL: 128

(GMHBA Stadium)

Carlton vs. Gold Coast

BRIGHT COMMUNITY BANK

Last week: 7

Geelong vs. Essendon

(Gabba)

Collingwood Geelong St Kilda Brisbane Gold Coast Fremantle Greater Western Sydney Western Bulldogs Adelaide

Elley Fraser

FRIDAY AUGUST 8

After

ROUND 21

Alanna McLees

Rebecca Healy ..............................133 Helen Haines..................................132

BELMORES

JO ROSS-JACKSON HEARING CENTRE

HALLIDAY SOLICITORS

5752 2288 1-7 Albert St Myrtleford

5752 2817 29 Clyde St Myrtleford

5752 2874 97 Myrtle St Myrtleford

Cameron Alexander ...................130 Mark Ditcham ...............................128

Last week: 9

TOTAL: 124

Collingwood Geelong St Kilda Brisbane Gold Coast Fremantle Greater Western Sydney Western Bulldogs Adelaide

TIPSTER

Last week: 7

TOTAL: 124

Hawthorn Geelong St Kilda Brisbane Gold Coast Fremantle Greater Western Sydney Western Bulldogs Adelaide

Amanda Toner

TIPSTER

Last week: 8

TOTAL: 122

Mark Knobel

TIPSTER

Geoff Zach ......................................124 Jo Ross-Jackson ...........................124 Alanna McLees .............................122 Gerard Gray

Amanda Toner...............................120 Mark Knobel................................... 119

MYRTLEFORD NEWSXPRESS

DICKENS REAL ESTATE

5752 1493 86 Standish St, Myrtleford Rear Unit 4, 4 Ireland St Bright

5752 1250 21 Clyde St Myrtleford

5755 1307 20 Ireland St Bright

TOTAL: 120

Last week: 8

TOTAL: 119

TIPSTER

TOTAL: 115

After

ROUND 21 Brian Grenfell MYRTLEFORD HOTEL

5752 1023 69 Clyde St Myrtleford

0497 534 278 67 Standish St Myrtleford

Last week: 1

Last week: 7

AFL LADDER

SPORTFIRST

TOTAL: 113

Gerard Gray .................................... 115 Paul Maskell................................... 113

Collingwood Essendon St Kilda Sydney Gold Coast Fremantle North Melbourne Western Bulldogs Adelaide

Paul Maskell

Elley Fraser.....................................127 Steven Prince ................................125

Collingwood Geelong St Kilda Sydney Gold Coast Fremantle Greater Western Sydney Western Bulldogs Adelaide

TONER & ASSOCIATES

Hawthorn Geelong St Kilda Brisbane Gold Coast Fremantle Greater Western Sydney Western Bulldogs Adelaide

TIPSTER

Last week: 7

TOTAL: 79

Adelaide Crows ...................60 Collingwood..........................60 Brisbane Lions .....................58 Geelong ...................................56 Fremantle ..............................56 Gold Coast .............................52 Hawthorn ...............................52

Brian Grenfell .................................. 79

GWS Giants ...........................52 Western Bulldogs.................48 Sydney.....................................40 Port Adelaide........................32 Melbourne .............................28 Carlton ....................................28 St Kilda ....................................28 Essendon................................24 Richmond...............................20 North Melbourne ..................18 West Coast ...............................4

Page 24 - THE OBSERVER / TIMES, Wednesday, August 6, 2025

myrtlefordtimes.com.au MYRTLEFORD

THE ALPINE

ªxHRLEOHy1230 3z

3 McGeehan Crescent, Myrtleford. AH: 5752 2198

PRECIPICE OF GREATNESS Tom Morrison and the division one men’s team are one win away from an undefeated league season. Savoy held off a challenge from third-placed Albury City to continue their stunning league season 3-2. PHOTO: Janet Watt STORY PAGE 19

Finals calibre Senior Saints in red-hot form ahead of finals, kick season-high 135 points in Tiger hunt

Myrtleford made it five wins from the last six matches of senior football, and their third consecutive victory over the Tigers at Albury Sportsground on Saturday. After a tone-setting first half which saw the Saints slam on 10 goals to Albury’s four, the visitors were able to

BY NATHAN DE VRIES

ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

run out winners 21.9 (135) to 6.10 (46). Myrtleford made the most of their early chances in a bizarre reversal from their

last match with the Tigers, in which the Saints kicked 9.21. Lachlan Murphy-Dale lit up the opening term with two goals before Brody Ricardi booted 4.2 in the second to set up the 35-point lead at half-time. While the Tigers tried to fight back, they were getting

killed by the Saints transition out of half back and slick skills. With a convincing ninegoal advantage heading into the final change, Myrtleford had their foot on the Tigers’ throat, and continued to punish them on the scoreboard.

HOME GAME Saturday August 9 Go Saints!

Thursday Night Meal - BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

Precision ball movement and clinical execution in front of goal saw the Saints pile on seven goals in the final term to put their highest total and largest winning margin (89 points) of the season. Coach Craig Millar said it was gratifying to see the

team run a game out and put a score on the board. “I was really pleased with the way our boys approached the week at training, we had a good opening quarter, and I was really pleased with the way we finished the game off,” he said. ■ Continued page 22

THIS SATURDAY

Ladies Day

Saturday August 9

From 2:30pm - $60 per person Ablett Pavilion Book Tickets via our TidyHQ shop