Judy Anderson (left) with Yasuaki and Taeko Tokuda, Rhonda Shallcross, Jim Oastler, Helen McNamara, Helen Hunter and Kate McNamara celebrated Myrtleford’s social side at Bush Track Wines’ Biggest Morning Tea last Friday. STORY PAGE 2
PHOTO: Phoebe Morgan
By PHOEBE MORGAN
A contemporary construction in Myrtleford has recently won the Master Builders Northern Regional Award for Best New Build under $400,000.
‘The Alpine House’ situated in Banool Avenue was designed by DX Architects and constructed by Lefoe Construction, with company owner, Brett Lefoe receiving the award at a gala dinner at the Commercial Club, Albury earlier this month in front of more than 200 guests.
“We are very thankful to Master Builders for organising an amazing evening, which showcased the excellent quality of building work in our region,” a Lefoe Construction spokesperson said.
Best New Build under $400,000. PHOTO: Jessica Carroll @jesscarrollcreative
of ‘The Alpine House’.
“From start to finish, it was an absolute pleasure to build.”
DX Architects lead designer, Bill Gibson, said the slope of the land and an existing site cut were complexities which provided opportunities for a unique approach to the design
“This project would not have been possible without our tight-knit work crew and contractors.
The build involved the construction of a new contemporary house, detached garage and carport.
With two bedrooms and one bathroom the building measures 110 square metres, with the garage and carport measuring 50 square metres.
“The Alpine House is my
own house, I live and work from here predominantly managing DX Architects’ regional projects,” Mr Gibson said.
“My wife and I purchased the land in October 2022, construction commenced October 2023 and was completed in May 2024.
“Overall it was a very com-
Local businesses involved in The Alpine House project included:
• Builder: Lefoe Constructions
• Design: @dxarchitects
• Plumbing: @rbiplumbing
• Electrical: @mitchdalbosco
• Windows: @wang_glass_ and_aluminium
• Tiling: @tilingtechniques
• Cabinetry: ovensvalleycabinets
• Benchtops: @alburystainlesssteel
pact timeframe which included obtaining planning approval and construction spanning the Christmas shut down.
“The construction itself went very smoothly, Lefoe Constructions did a great job and the typical minor challenges which appeared when building a custom house were easily resolved.
“The house is unique in a lot of ways, particularly in how it can be opened or closed through the use of shutters and screens to suit the weather or use.
“The house utilises cantilevered construction to project over the natural slope of the land, which is an uncommon construction method in residential projects of this scale.”
As the first project completed by DX Architects’ regional office, Mr Gibson said the recognition for the project means a lot to the company and is really encouraging for upcoming regional projects.
“This award is a credit to the work of Lefoe Constructions and highlights the value of collaborating with local builders as a team to deliver a highquality result,” he said.
By PHOEBE MORGAN
Every available seat was taken at Bush Track Wines Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser last Friday, with the second annual event raising $1728 for the Cancer Council.
Dozens of attendees from Myrtleford and nearby towns gathered at the cellar door and marked this year’s fundraiser, enjoying a wide range of delicious finger foods and beverages, while doing their part for the cancer cause.
Event organiser Judy Anderson thanked everyone who supported the fundraiser.
“We’ve had a lot of support from local businesses, which has been fantastic to see,” she said.
“Bush Track Wines will be running the event again next year in May.
“Thank you all for your support.”
The cellar door was able to put on such a scrumptious spread, a number of attendees were already making plans for next year’s fundraiser.
“We are advocating for an ‘Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea’ to be held here at Bush Track Wines every year,” Trish Bardoe said.
“It was well attended last year and it looks like it this year, too.
“I want to try all the different foods and drinks available at this morning tea, they look fantastic.”
Catherine Upcher said the Bush Track Wines cellar door was the perfect function space for the morning tea.
“It’s a lovely venue and it’s really
good they’ve been able to host an Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea here,” she said.
“It brings people in from all over to a place which is cozy and amenable; that’s what makes it Bush Track Wines.
“I have a twice-yearly subscription to Bush Track Wines.
“I think the chardonnay is excellent as well as the sauvignon blanc and shiraz.
“For a small winery, it packs a big punch.”
A Myrtleford man who wrecked his father’s home and set a fire in the living room over the weekend will spend at least the next six weeks behind bars.
The 39-year-old appeared from the custody box at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Monday after being arrested on Friday.
He pleaded guilty to numerous counts of property damage, breaking intervention orders and possession of meth and cannabis.
The court heard in three incidents in March this year the defendant damaged a wall and smashed a window
in his bedroom of his father’s home, causing $200 worth of damage to the wall.
An intervention order was placed on him by his brother in April who also lived at the home, but the defendant continued to visit the address and on 27 June caused $1000 of damage to the doors.
On 18 July, the defendant’s father returned home to find around $10,000 worth of damaged furniture including three TVs, a dryer, washing machine, nine windows and cabinets all destroyed.
The father confronted his son, telling him to pack
some clothes and “don’t come back”.
The court heard that the father returned home on 25 July and found the house ruined.
All windows in the home were smashed, all walls were damaged with multiple holes and entire plaster ripped off and the ceiling was damaged.
A fire had been lit in the living room on a pile of destroyed furniture with carpet ripped off, toilet destroyed, and dishes broken.
A heater was found left on against a wall.
Police arrived to document the damage, costing around $50,000, most likely to in-
crease upon the anticipated discovery of further damage.
Later that day officers arrested the defendant near the property and found him possession of 10g of cannabis.
The court heard of multiple other incidents this year when the man was caught with small quantities of meth or cannabis in his possession, breaking intervention orders and riding his bike around Myrtleford without a helmet.
Defence counsel Nancy Battiato said her client couldn’t explain why he wrecked his father’s home.
Ms Battiato said a psychology report in 2022 diagnosed
the man with major depression, reduced intellect, chronic anxiety, PTSD and alcohol and drug abuse, which was all still relevant today.
Police prosecutor Ramadan Hamidon said the man had a poor history of complying with community corrections orders and nothing seemed to be working in curtailing his offending.
“Short of burning the house down it’s hard to imagine what could be more serious than this,” he said.
“There needs to be some kind of circuit breaker event that in my submission can only be achieved by a term of imprisonment.”
Magistrate Megan Casey showed concern around the escalation of the property damage and remanded the defendant in custody to be assessed for a community corrections order and Forensicare, a mental health service provider.
“This is incredibly serious and at least on one view, this is in parole period territory,” she said.
“I’m really worried about what’s going on between you and your family members.”
The defendant will return to Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on 15 September.
Bright Food Co-op gets $10,000 grant funding to upgrade premises
By PHOEBE MORGAN
Bright Food Co-op has received $10,000 in federal funding to upgrade its site and improve access for all members of the community.
The funding was part of $150,000 in funds provided to 14 successful groups in Indi which Independent federal MP Helen Haines announced last week.
Dr Haines said the grants through the Stronger Communities Program ranged from $5000 and $18,855 and would help community organisations to maintain and improve infrastructure and facilities and
enable them to purchase muchneeded equipment.
Myrtleford RSL Sub-Branch was among recipients, with $12,231 to upgrade sunshades and purchase new interactive audiovisual and display equipment
Bright Food Co-op committee member, Gil Paulsen, said the group would put its funding towards making the centre a warm place to come in for a chat as they buy food on Thursdays and Saturdays.
“Receiving this grant is very exciting...we’re going to try to use it as effectively as we can,” she said.
“We’ll upgrade the shop, paint it and add some planter-boxes outside to try to highlight that space and maybe put in some edible plants, with plants indoors as well.
“The upgrades will make it a more welcoming and attractive space, as there are other groups who use the stadium space with us.
“As the co-op continues to grow, we’ll see if we could extend opening hours on some days or open during another day.”
The Bright Food Co-op is located in the foyer next to basketball stadium at Bright’s P-12 College. It is open from 4pm to 6pm
Thursdays and 10am to 12pm on Saturdays.
Dr Haines said 62 expressions of interest were received for the program across Indi, with each assessed by a community panel on their ability to encourage and support participation in local projects, increase community participation and contribute to vibrant and viable communities.
COMMUNITY COOKING
CENTRE: Gil Paulsen from Bright Food Co-op said funding will be put toward making the site even more warm and inviting for all users.
PHOTO: Bright Food Co-op.
Vail Resorts has promoted its Mt Hotham VP and GM Tina Burford to its largest ski resort in the United States, and also strengthened alignment of its Victorian resorts by appointing Falls Creek VP and GM Richard Phillips to now also oversee Hotham.
Announcing the changes on Monday, Vail Resorts said Mr Phillips’ vice president and general manager role at both
Hotham and Falls Creek ski resorts takes effect from 14 September and will help create “new synergies and collaboration between the neighbouring resorts”.
Ms Burford will leave her current position of vice president and general manager at Hotham at the end of this winter, relocating to the USA to be the new senior director of skier services at Park City Mountain in Park City, Utah – the largest
ski resort in the United States.
Mr Phillips has led the team at Falls Creek for nearly six years and has more than 25 years of experience in the ski industry in Australia, including former roles in sales and marketing at both Perisher and Thredbo.
He said he was “super excited” to be joining the Hotham team and community in this new role.
Ms Burford has been a long-
time leader in the ski industry with a career spanning more than four decades with 32 years at Perisher, including as the resort services director and two years at Hotham as the VP and GM.
She said she was “incredibly proud” of the work done at Hotham during her time there as VP and GM, particularly to improve the Snowsports School experience for guests.
By PHOEBE MORGAN
Bright’s ‘Winter in the Village’ committee held it’s inaugural festival last weekend to widespread success, with hundreds of attendees joining in the Christmas in July celebrations on offer.
With free admittance to all, festivities began on Friday evening as Father Christmas launched the festival at ‘Making Spirits Bright’ at 5pm, drawing in a line of families eager for a seasonal snap-shot.
Businesses in Barnard Street hosted late-night shopping hours to pair with a number of Christmas in July-themed activities across the weekend, including; the Star Road Trader fashion parade at Tigre Vita; the roaming Bright Singers performing Christmas carols around the area; and a paper-plane crafting competition with prizes for the design which flew the farthest.
Winter in the Village committee member, Amanda Hore, said Friday was a great success with attendees en-
joying the vibe of the street on a winter’s night.
“We saw a lot of people having a great time, especially the kids,” she said.
“Everybody I spoke to at the fashion show at Tigre Vita on Friday night said they had a great time.
“We really enjoyed seeing some of the attendees dress up in their ugly Christmas sweaters on Friday night... that was great fun.
“We only had to cancel the outdoor events on Saturday because there was a lot of rain forecast, but it didn’t dampen Friday night’s celebrations and we saw no other complications throughout the weekend.”
Ms Hore said the committee has a lot of awesome ideas for next year and they have already scheduled a planning session for mid-August.
“We’re looking to make it more than a weekend of activities, perhaps a week-long celebration at the next winter festival,” she said.
“We look forward to putting on a bigger event next year.”
at the beautiful, bright Christmas decorations decked out in Bright.
By PHOEBE MORGAN
Wild storms saw a house at Ovens partially relieved of its roof in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Myrtleford SES were called out just after midnight to assist with the clean-up and to prevent any further damage.
Unit controller, David Coates, said half of home’s verandah roof had blown away and the other half had blown back onto the house’s roof.
“We made safe the remainder of the roof which had collapsed, but thankfully the actual house itself remained intact and habitable,” he said.
SES volunteers finished at the Ovens call out at 2am, before they were called out once more to multiple reports of trees down at 6am.
“We arrived on scene at Happy Valley Road and removed four trees which were blocking traffic,” Mr Coates said.
“Soon after we cleared that area, we were also called out to the Myrtleford-Yackandandah Road and removed another tree partially blocking that road.”
It is believed the combination of strong winds and approximately 101mm of rainfall in the Myrtleford region over the past week, likely caused the trees to fall.
Many farms are homes as well as workplaces for farmers who work on-site and we all have a part to play in improving farm safety, health and wellbeing.
Agriculture Victoria director of rural assistance, people and planning, Clare Purcell, said despite employing only two per cent of working Victorians, the agriculture sector accounts for 14 per cent of all workplace fatalities.
On average, two people are injured on Victorian farms every day.
“We all have a role to play in making farm safety a priority, not just for those working the land, but for everyone who lives, works and visits the farm,” Ms Purcell said.
“As a part of the Farming
Safe and Well program, we have spoken to experts on farm safety for a new podcast season.
“Our latest AgVic Talk season, ‘Farming Safe and Well’, focuses on the many aspects that make up farm safety, from fatigue management, safe livestock handling, supporting youth mental health and an inclusive approach to farming with a disability.
“The stories shared are personal and important, covering vital elements of farm safety such as safe shearing practices through to topics that may be hidden from view like supporting staff members with dyslexia.
“This podcast season hopes to foster discussions on the high-risk aspects of the rewarding business of
LETTERS to the editor must be signed with the
edit.timesobserver@nemedia.com.au
Post North East Media 76 Standish Street, Myrtleford, Vic 3737
ARE YOU TUNED IN TO FARM SAFETY? Moving with the times, Agriculture Victoria releases new season of ‘Farming Safe and Well’ podcasts.
farming, emphasising the importance of raising awareness, sharing stories and building a culture of safety.”
Miller discuss the critical importance of safe livestock handling during loading and unloading processes.
ing safety standards in the agricultural sector, to protect both workers and animals.
In one episode, experts Joel Haberfield and Peter
Their insights highlight the importance of improv-
In another, Samantha Pritchard from People in Paddocks and Sheree Hen-
derson, a farmer from north west Victoria, share insights about how to make farm safety inductions more effective and inclusive.
They state creating a culture of safety on farms now and into the future is a shared responsibility to ensure safety is woven into everyday farm operations, from decision making through to daily practices. Listeners can subscribe and listen to ‘Farming Safe and Well’ on AgVic Talk on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and at: agriculture.vic.gov.au/agvictalk where more information about Agriculture Victoria’s work on farm safety is also available.
For more information about drought support call: 136 186 or visit: agriculture.vic.gov.au/ drought
The Allan Labor Government has deceived regional Victorians. Just 20 cents in every dollar of the government’s new Emergency Services Tax is being delivered to the CFA and a measly five cents to the SES. This is an outright betrayal of
our volunteers.
Labor promised a funding boost for the CFA and SES, yet they’ve been handed a realterms cut under a tax that’s raking in more than ever.
The new $1.54 billion Emergency Services Volunteer Fund was sold as a lifeline for CFA and VicSES volunteers, replacing the $1 billion Fire Services Property Levy.
But figures show less money is actually reaching the volunteers who risk their lives to protect our communities.
This government talks big but delivers small.
The CFA’s budget has been slashed by $9 million, how is that a ‘boost’?
And VicSES gets next to nothing. It’s a disgrace.
While frontline volunteers are struggling to get the trucks and gear they need, half of this massive tax take is going to Fire Rescue Victoria, and hundreds of millions more are being funnelled into bureaucratic agencies with little to no community presence.
Our CFA volunteers protect regional homes, farmland and lives. They shouldn’t have to beg for
Where do you live?
I live in Myrtleford. How long have you lived in the area?
I’m new to town.
I’ve only been here four months since moving from Melbourne.
What do you do for a living?
I work at the Buffalo Hotel as a barman.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I like to do charity work and help other people.
I’m interested in car racing and I like riding bikes.
Myrtleford is the perfect place for bike riding.
What do you think makes the area unique?
basics while Labor dishes out dollars to office-bound agencies. There must be full transparency and an immediate reversal of cuts.
Victorians were promised support for volunteers, not a spin-fest.
Labor must stop treating our emergency services like a slush fund and start treating our volunteers with the respect they deserve.
Labor can’t manage money, and volunteer emergency services are paying the price.
Tim McCurdy, Nationals’ MP for Ovens Valley
It’s nice, peaceful and away from the city.
People are lovely here and they all know each other.
What would you change about the area?
We could bring some events here specifically for young people, so Myrtleford becomes an area for both older and younger generations.
There’s not many things like discos in town.
But these types of events could encourage young people to stay here.
Where do you live?
I live in Ascot Vale. How often do you visit the Bright area?
Usually twice a year: once in summer and once in winter, for about two weeks. What do you do for a living? I’m a teacher. What are your hobbies and interests?
I like art, cycling and going hiking. I also like music and
playing guitar. What do you think makes the area unique?
I like how Bright feels like an actual village, not just a town with a high street. It has its own identity. The backdrop of mountains is very nice; Australia is usually flat. What would you change about the area?
Perhaps install some more zebra crossings.
The Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) will host a free fishing forum in Mt Beauty in August, connecting recreational fishers with the latest on topics tailored to their patch.
The Mt Beauty forum will be held on Tuesday, 19 August, from 7pm to 9pm at the Kiewa Valley Fishing Club at 1 Tennis Court Avenue, Mount Beauty.
A focus of the presentation will be on native fish stocks, particularly Macquarie perch, trout cod, catfish and blackfish.
VFA CEO Travis Dowling said the Mt Beauty forum is one of 11 annual forums to be held across the state to provide a chance for fishers and their families to pick up new information, while building relationships with a local club and sharing ideas to make fishing even better.
Each forum will highlight how the VFA is reinvesting recreational fishing licence fees locally, and include details on the Victorian
government’s $96 million Go Fishing and Boating plan to improve fishing, boating, piers and aquaculture.
“We always look forward to catching up with locals, who know their waterways best, and hearing what matters most to them,” Mr Dowling said.
“We’ve just stocked 10 million fish again, more than all other states and territories combined, we’ve removed commercial nets from Port Phillip and the Gippsland Lakes and we’ve made it free to launch and park at all of Victoria’s public boat ramps.
“On top of that we’re tripling the size of our Arcadia hatchery and undertaking fascinating monitoring of much-loved recreational species like black bream, snapper, King George whiting and Murray cod – so there’s plenty to discuss.
“The forums are also a great chance to ask our experts those burning questions and settle any longstanding debates with mates.”
Helen Haines has been officially sworn in for her third term as Indi’s Independent federal MP.
The 48th Parliament of Australia was formally opened on Tuesday last week by Governor-General Sam Mostyn, who addressed all members and senators in the Senate chamber.
Dr Haines said it was an immense privilege to again
represent Indi, marking the fifth consecutive parliamentary term in which the electorate is being served by an Independent.
“I will continue to make every minute count, influencing national debate and advocating for a fair share for Indi and regional Australia,” she said.
Dr Haines was one of the first speakers in the House
of Representatives, rising to endorse the re-nomination of Milton Dick as Speaker for his second term.
While much of last week in Parliament was dedicated to the first speeches of new members, Dr Haines was already back to work.
“Soon after my re-election, I wrote to key ministers of the government outlining the key priorities I will be
pursuing in this 48th Parliament,” she said.
“I’m setting meetings with the government on critical issues including health, housing, energy, childcare and trade.
“And, with a much-diminished opposition, the work of the crossbench in holding the government to account and scrutinising legislation is more important than ever.”
Students across the Alpine Shire rolled up their sleeves last week and dug deep for Planet Ark’s National Tree Day.
In partnership with the Alpine Shire Council’s sustainability and open spaces teams, as well as the Myrtleford and Upper Ovens Landcare groups, students from local schools planted hundreds of native trees, shrubs and grasses across Bright and Harrietville last Thursday, 24 July.
Students in Dederang, Myrtleford and Tawonga are joining in with more native tree planting this week.
The Myrtleford and District Landcare & Sustainability Group Inc. and the Upper Ovens Valley Landcare Group had to postpone their planned community planting days last Sunday due to wet weather.
MDLSG president Paul Reser said their community tree day will now go ahead this Saturday, 2 August beginning at 9:30am at the same location on Apex Lane, leading into Apex Park.
The UOVLG is yet to advise on another date and time for their scheduled Freeburgh tree-planting workshop.
Plantings have been carefully chosen to support local biodiversity and restore vital habitat, including for one of our region’s most iconic and now endangered visitors: the Gang-Gang Cockatoo.
With their distinctive crests and creaky-door call, these much-loved birds rely on mature trees and diverse understorey for nesting and food.
They favour eucalypts, wattles and introduced hawthorns and depend on old tree hollows for nesting, which can take decades to form.
Alpine Shire residents can help by planting these species at home and protecting established trees wherever possible.
National Tree Day has been growing strong since 1996, with the Alpine Shire Council proudly supporting it with local schools since 2015.
“I’m very proud to say this is the tenth year we have worked with local students, teachers, parents and volunteers from across Alpine Shire to celebrate Planet Ark’s National Tree Day,” Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas said.
“This important initiative
not only supports revegetation of endemic and Indigenous flora throughout our public lands, but also teaches young people how to care for the land by ensuring prioritising local plantings to recreate natural habitats for native animals.”
Cr Nicholas thanked the passionate staff, parents and volunteers for their continued participation year after year.
“As much as we all care about our environment, it can be challenging to find time within our busy schedules to prioritise the care required,” she said.
“Thank you to everybody
who has participated over the past 10 years and to those who continue to support our young people to develop a stronger appreciation for our local flora and fauna.
“I also extend my sincerest thank you to the multiple Landcare committees and group members across Alpine Shire, who consistently give their time to care for our lands.”
All trees, shrubs and grasses are sourced from Park Lane Nursery in Wangaratta, which is not-for-profit social enterprise which provides meaningful employment for people with disabilities.
Prostate cancer patients struggling with their mental health can benefit from free counselling sessions being offered by Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country, with more than 26,000 men newly diagnosed each year.
Alarmingly, around one in three Australian men diagnosed will experience anxiety and depression as a result of their diagnosis and treatment, contributing to a 70 per cent increased risk of suicide.
To help combat the devastating impact of a diagnosis and treatment, PCFA launched its free counselling service in 2022 and has since provided over 3200 sessions to men and their partners in critical need of support.
PCFA head of supportive care programs, Bernie Riley, said the service is Australia’s only prostate cancer-specific counselling service.
“Being diagnosed with prostate cancer and undergoing treatment can result in a number of changes both physically and mentally, which can be really confronting for those impacted,” he said.
“That’s where our counselling service steps in.
“Our counsellors help men and their loved ones navigate the challenges of their diagnosis, providing practical strategies for coping with the disease and self-managing the emotional, spiritual, and psychological impacts of what they are experiencing.
“The service exists to help catch men before they fall into isolation and suicidal ideation.”
For more information about the Prostate Cancer Counselling Service call 1800 22 00 99 or visit www.prostate.org.au.
By SIMONE KERWIN
Work is under way to acknowledge Myrtleford’s historic involvement in the Rotary Youth Exchange program.
The tradition of the 12-month exchange began in Myrtleford in the late 1950s, largely due to the efforts of Rotarian Peter Barnett, and later with assistance from Wangaratta’s Clive Schliebs.
A group has been formed to work on appropriately acknowledging Mr Barnett’s role in the formation of the program, and it has issued a callout to past outgoing and incoming Myrtleford Rotary Exchange Program students,
their families or friends to be part of the process.
John Rogers from Scottsbluff, Nebraska, USA was the first one-year Rotary exchange student, arriving in Myrtleford on 29 January, 1959 for his 12-month stay.
Then, in early 1959, Heidelberg’s John Rutherford and Cobram’s Norman Jordan left for their exchanges to the USA. It was the realisation of Peter Barnett’s idea for Rotary Youth Exchange, which emerged in 1949 as he and wife Audrey spent time cycling through warravaged parts of Europe, learning about other cultures and religions and making friends in the villages they visited.
They became passionately committed to the idea, and accepted the challenge of promoting international understanding, goodwill, peace and friendship through the power of person-to-person contact.
Peter’s idea of sending male and female high school students on exchange met with some resistance at the time, as many believed the best ambassadors would be male university graduates, rather than teenagers.
His plans to offer exchange with Japan and Germany also met with strong resistance.
Peter was responsible for and very proud to offer the program to young women at
By PHOEBE MORGAN
Local Italian heritage group, the Circolo Vicentini di Myrtleford (CVM), recently honoured their decadeslong serving committee member Sebastiano Revrenna.
The group gathered to celebrate with a lunch at the Tarrawingee Plough Inn on 5 July, with the new president, Paul Rizzato presenting Sebastiano with a trophy engraved with a message which conveyed the group’s appreciation and thanks for his commitment to the community.
After serving on the CVM’s committee for the past 47 years, Sebastiano stepped down at their AGM in February.
Not wishing to hold any grand pomp or circumstance, Sebastiano agreed to a group lunch suggested by the committee in acknowledgement of his years of service.
“Sebastiano said it was an absolute pleasure and he had a lot of fun during his time with us,” CVM secre tary, Mara Greco said.
“He thanked everybody and wished them well, stat ing it was a pleasure serving us for all those years.”
CIRCOLO CELEBRATIONS: Sebastian Revrenna was honoured for 47 years of service to the Circolo Vicentini di Myrtleford.
a time when opportunities for girls were often very limited.
The first female Rotary exchange student was Marjorie Price from Myrtleford (1960), and the first female exchange student to Asia was Cathie Bianco from Myrtleford (1961), while Bill Ginnivan from Benalla was the first male student to go on exchange to Asia, in 1960. These exchanges occurred when the White Australia policy, which placed restrictions on immigration, was still in place.
Rotarian Dr Allan Terrett, who is researching the early days of the program, said the exchange program may have contributed to the eventual
elimination of the White Australia policy, by encouraging such cultural interchange, particularly with Asian countries.
Since its introduction, tens of thousands of Australians and hundreds of thousands of high school students worldwide (about 9000 each year) have enjoyed the opportunity of a lifetime by becoming Rotary exchange students.
If you are or know a former outgoing or incoming Myrtleford Rotary Exchange Program student, please contact Dr Allan Terrett via email allan.terrett8@gmail.com or on 0432 358 008 to share your experience.
The Victorian government’s virtual women’s health clinic is now open to all Victorian women and girls of any age – offering free, expert medical advice, treatment and care for a range of women’s health needs.
Led by specialist nurses, the clinic can provide medical advice remotely via telehealth, either online or on the phone, including endometriosis and pelvic pain care, menstrual health, cervical screening, menopause care, breast health care and abortion.
Women in regional and remote Victoria will benefit the most, with services like contraception and abortion traditionally harder to access due to distance from major towns.
Operated in partnership with community health organisation EACH, it will reduce the barriers and delays in accessing care, helping to avoid detrimental impacts on a woman’s health, their quality of life and the ability to participate in school and employment.
All services are delivered by an experienced nurse or nurse practitioner who work to build connections with women, their community and local health services.
The virtual women’s clinic is available Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm, by calling 1300 003 224 or via an online form at each.com.au/ services/virtual-womens-health-clinic.
The Stroke Foundation is backing a new free digital tool, Love Your Brain, designed to help Australians understand and manage their stroke risk.
Developed with Monash University and the Menzies Institute for Medical Research at the University of Tasmania, Love Your Brain aims to reduce the annual number of strokes by empowering people with knowledge and practical steps to improve their health.
Researchers are seeking participants aged 45 and over who have not experienced a stroke or major heart event.
The program offers a 12-week tailored online course or a series of emails and SMS messages, providing insights into stroke risk factors, like high blood pressure, and how to lower them.
Stroke Foundation CEO Dr Lisa Murphy said the initiative is a powerful way to put prevention
RISK LEVEL: There are several ways to identify stroke risk factors without the luxury of an MRI.
directly into people’s hands.
“Stroke can be a devastating disease with the impact to change lives in an instant by leading to complex visible and invisible disabilities, including issues with mobility, communication, sensory and cognitive changes, mental wellbeing impacts and even death,” she said.
“The good news is that more than 80 per cent of strokes can be prevented, which is why tools such as Love Your Brain are so important to raise awareness about ways Aus-
sies can reduce their personal risk of stroke, and protect their health and wellbeing.
“This project is about raising awareness and making prevention practical.
“Love Your Brain meets people where they’re at and encourages small changes that can make a big difference.”
One in four people globally will experience a stroke in their lifetime.
In Australia, more than 440,000 people live with the impact of
PHOTO: illustrissima/Shutterstock.com
stroke, and around 46,000 Australians have a stroke every year – one every 11 minutes.
Most strokes can be prevented through simple lifestyle changes and knowing your personal risk.
The trial requires no more than 30 minutes per week over 12 weeks and includes two online surveys.
For more information or to enrol, visit https://strokefoundation.org. au/what-we-do/research/researchprojects/love-your-brain
Tour bus drivers heading to Victoria’s alpine resorts this winter are being urged to prioritise safety and compliance.
Safe Transport Victoria (ST Vic), in partnership with Victoria Police, will again conduct roadside inspections on routes leading to the state’s snowfields as part of its annual winter safety operations, to ensure drivers hold alpine region authorisation and carry essential safety equipment.
As part of the checks, inspectors will verify that buses are roadworthy, registered and equipped with the mandatory alpine safety gear, including snow chains, wheel chocks, a working torch and a shovel.
Other critical safety features, such as windscreen wipers and demisters, will also be checked.
Drivers must hold a Hazardous Area Authority (HAA) in addition to standard driver accreditation when operating in snow regions.
They are also reminded to manage fatigue and keep their mandatory logbooks up to date when carrying passengers.
Bus operators must also have systems in place to manage driver fatigue and ensure mandatory vehicle safety checks are completed, including daily pre-trip inspections.
Last winter, more than 200 buses were inspected at the roadside, resulting in 19 infringements and 31 defect notices.
This year’s inspection programwill run until the end of August.
North East Water (NEW) is inviting customers across the Alpine Shire to provide feedback on its 2026 price submission through a newly released ‘Customer Summary’.
This engagement opportunity comes well ahead of the water corporation submitting its final pricing proposal to the Essential Services Commission, Victoria’s independent economic regulator, on 1 October 2025.
The ‘Customer Summary’ outlines a proposed $250 million investment in critical infrastructure that will improve water and
wastewater security across the region, support over 9300 new housing connections and 500 local jobs, improve health and environmental compliance, and strengthen climate resilience.
It also proposes to double its Customer Support Fund which will help thousands of vulnerable customers a year with payment extensions, bill rebates and access to concessions and grants.
NEW managing director Jo Murdoch said the views of more than 6300 customers, gathered across three years of engagement, had helped shape
and influence North East Water’s proposal.
“We heard very clearly that our customers are concerned about housing shortages, cost of living and the environment and that North East Water has a role in responsibly address these,” she said.
“They also want us to remain reliable, responsive, sustainable, local and fairly priced and it is these key themes that will guide our Customer Commitments in our next price period.”
Ms Murdoch said more than $1 billion in new or upgraded water and wastewater infra-
structure was required for the region in the next 10 to 15 years to respond to housing growth, compliance and climate change.
This included the need for replacing major trunk infrastructure, upgrading water and wastewater treatment plants, new water storages, renewal of existing pipes and pumps and more, she said.
“North East Water is already delivering $350 million in infrastructure in its current price period, but further investment is urgently needed from 2026-31 to avoid delaying new
housing, impacting the environment and increasing future costs,” Ms Murdoch said.
“To cover the cost of this critical infrastructure, we are proposing bills to increase by an average of 5.25 per cent annually, excluding inflation.
“For a typical household using 194kL per year, this would mean a $61 increase in the first year, or $1.17 per week, and a total increase of $340 over five years.
“For tenants, the increase is just $11 in the first year, or 21 cents per week, and $55 over five years.”
Ms Murdoch said even with these increases, North East Water’s bills would remain on par or below the average for regional Victorian water corporations.
“North East Water’s Price Submission Customer Summary is now available on North East Water’s website, and customers are encouraged to provide feedback by 8 August.” North East Water’s new pricing would take effect from 1 July 2026 if approved. For more information and to have your say, visit: www. newater.com.au/ps.
Upper Murray Family Care (UMFC) is expanding its therapy services to address the growing mental health and wellbeing needs in the local region.
The organisation is employing counsellors, therapists, and other qualified practitioners to deliver a cross-border, trusted, tailored, and trauma-informed model of care.
UMFC said it aims to support individuals seeking personal growth, navigating family dynamics, or pursuing professional development with experienced and compassionate therapists.
UMFC’s expanded services offer flexible and inclusive care options, including family, parent and individual therapy to strengthen relationships and improve communication, and Spotlight Sessions for short-term, focused support with minimal wait times.
For children and adolescents, UMFC provides family therapy and child and adolescent therapy to support emotional regulation and personal growth.
Services for professionals and organisations include consultation services.
Individual and group supervision to promote professional growth and best practice is also offered.
Tailored training and reflective practice is available.
Additional services are available upon request.
Session fees typically range from $150 to $220, with availability for self or plan-managed NDIS participants and concession rates for Health Care Card holders.
UMFC’s approach focuses on individualised care, offering both office-based and telehealth sessions.
Felicity Williams, CEO of Upper Murray Family Care, said, they have established Therapy Services in response to the need for therapy and counselling assistance they have directly observed with the children, young people and families they support.
More Alpine Shire residents are being urged to consider consenting to becoming an organ and tissue donor by registering on the Australian Organ Donor Register.
Statistics released as part of DonateLife Week show in the Alpine Shire, an estimated 86 people registered on the AODR during 2024, beating out the previous year’s total by 10.
Approximately 35 per cent of the eligible population is registered, at 3728 total registrations.
With around 1800 Australians on the waitlist for an organ transplant, DonateLife is calling on more residents to take one minute this week to register as organ and tissue donors and to let your family know you want to be a donor.
“We acknowledge and thank all of the families who have consented to organ and tissue donation,” state medical director of DonateLife Victoria, Dr Rohit D’Costa said.
“Through their generosity, countless lives have been transformed.”
While four in five Australians support organ and tissue donation, only around one in three are registered to be a donor on the Australian Organ Donor Register.
“Victoria still has one of the lowest registration rates in the country at 23 per cent, compared to a national rate of 36 per cent,” Dr D’Costa said.
“This DonateLife Week, I’m urging everyone in Victoria to please register as an organ and tissue donor.
“Then, talk to your family: let them know you want to be a donor, because someone’s life could depend on it.”
Anyone aged 16 and over can register on the AODR: it only takes one minute to register as an organ and tissue donor at donatelife.gov.au or through your Medicare account, before informing your family of your decision.
“Incredibly, one organ donor can save the lives of up to seven people and change the lives of many more through eye and tissue donation,” Dr D’Costa said.
Australia’s annual DonateLife Week runs until thgis Sunday, 3 August.
“Daily, we see people in our communities languishing on waiting lists and unable to find the support they need close to where they live,” she said.
“We know that mental health challenges are increasing, particularly for young people, but also for those impacted by family violence.
“The family violence rate in regional areas, such as ours, is twice the rate of metropolitan areas.
“Yet therapy and counselling services are in short supply in regional areas.
“While providers within our health sector respond to people needing diagnosed mental
health support, we know that our clinical and medical system response is not enough.
“We need more communitybased support and services, particularly for those members of our community who would benefit from less formal and individualised therapy and counselling.”
UMFC is developing its Therapy Services for the whole family to complement other community-based programs such as headspace and Head to Health provided by our community health provider Gateway Health.
Further information on UMFC’s Therapy Services can be found at: umfc.com.au.
Perfectly positioned in a sought-after pocket of Wangaratta, this solid brick veneer home offers the ideal blend of comfort, convenience and low-maintenance living.
Set on a manageable 542m² approx. allotment, this property is well-suited to first home buyers, downsizers or investors looking for a quality home in an established location.
Inside, the home features three wellsized bedrooms, a central bathroom
and a functional layout that caters to everyday living.
Reverse cycle heating and cooling ensure year-round comfort, while the easy-care interiors provide the opportunity to move in and enjoy immediately or update to suit your personal style.
The outdoor area is equally impressive, with an undercover alfresco zone perfect for entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon.
The property also boasts a secure garage and undercover carport, ideal for families or those with extra vehicles, trailers, or recreational equipment.
With low-maintenance landscaping and generous outdoor space for kids or pets, this property offers a relaxed lifestyle without the upkeep.
This property at 35 Blake Street presents a fantastic opportunity to secure a comfortable and well-located home in the heart of Wangaratta.
• Opportunity to secure 3.71-hectare General Residential Zone site Potential for approximately 40 residential lots (STCA)
• 204-metre road frontage to arterial road with 2,100 daily average vehicle movements and ease of access to local services
• Located minutes from Benalla’s city centre, schools, and golf course
• Strong buyer demand for quality residential land in the region
Wangaratta 18 Maxwell Street
667m2
Charming
Wangaratta 6 Kingfisher Drive
Superb
Wangaratta 75 Phillipson Street
Wangaratta 34 Pelican Court Big on Living, Low on Maintenance For Sale $865,000 View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/L22637260
Wangaratta 3/41 Gray Street
Stylishly Renovated 2 Bedroom Unit - Walk to CBD AUCTION 01/08/2025 1PM On Site (unless sold prior) View by appointment, Wangaratta.nutrienharcourts.com.au/ L19192354 Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta
Position: Business Development Manager
A lifelong Wangaratta local, Jason joins us as Business Development Manager after 25 years of experience in the banking industry. He has helped countless individuals and families secure loans for homes, businesses, vehicles, and properties - always with a focus on personal service and community support. His move into real estate is a natural extension of his passion for helping people achieve their goals.
Jason is a familiar face in the community, actively involved in local sporting clubs as a coach, committee member, and team manager. When he’s not lending a hand around town, he enjoys walking, reading, studying, and traveling with his family.
Jason brings strong values of honesty, integrity, and genuine care to his new role at Nutrien Harcourts Wangaratta, and he’s excited to continue supporting the community he knows and loves. NEW TEAM MEMBER
Position: Property Management Assistant
Sofia joins us a valued member of our Harcourts Wangaratta Property Management and Administration team. After graduating from VCE, she is excited and driven to begin and excel in her career in real estate. Sofia comes from a hospitality background where she has developed a strong work ethic and excellent customer service skills. She prides herself on her attention to detail, communication skills and her ability to build authentic relationships - all essential to delivering an exceptional real estate experience to our clients. Outside of work Sofia enjoys staying active, playing netball and values quality time with friends and family.
a quiet pocket of Wangaratta, this well-appointed three-bedroom property offers comfort, space and opportunity.
Each bedroom features built-in robes, while multiple living zones including a formal loungeroom, spacious family area and separate rumpus room cater to a variety of lifestyle needs.
The open plan kitchen is equipped with modern appliances and flows seamlessly into the heart of the home, making everyday living and entertaining a breeze. Creature comforts are well covered with gas heating, evaporative cooling and a split system, ensuring year-round climate control.
The central bathroom boasts both a separate bath and shower for added convenience.
| $489,000 Location | 10 O’Leary Street, Wangaratta
Outside, a paved pergola invites relaxed outdoor entertaining, while a carport and large garage/workshop (approx. 9.5m x 3.2m) provide plenty of storage and workspace.
Whether you’re upsizing, investing or entering the market, 10 O’Leary Street offers incredible value.
Inspections are highly recommended.
By
Range change, facelift, tech top-up – it’s all happening for the Qashqai compact Nissan SUV.
All except the price, which remains similar to the previous model, giving a nudge to rivals from Japan and China.
Nissan has shuffled the pack, with new nomenclature in line with the company’s larger SUVs, and the range extended to six by the addition of an NDesign flagship, featuring the innovative e-Power powertrain.
Upgrades, designed to make a more striking impression, stretch across the whole range from the entry-level ST, where prices start at $32,665, plus onroad costs.
The ST-L adds $5000, the Ti comes in at $42,965 and Ti-L $48,165.
Nissan’s Ti-L e-Power jumps to $52,365, while the N-Design e-Power tops off the range at $54,365.
On test for this review is the mid-spec Ti, sandwiched between the ST-L and Ti-L petrol variants.
Priced at $42,965 before onroads.
Notably, changes for the facelifted five-seater don’t extend to mechanicals.
The Qashqai continues to be offered with the choice of a turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a turbo three-cylinder paired with Nissan’s e-
Power hybrid system.
The MY25 Qashqai does introduce Nissan’s Connected Car Services in Australia, giving owners mobile access to key vehicle information, including health and status reports, trip history and vehicle variations.
Qashqais are covered by Nissan’s generous ten-year 300,000-kilometre conditional warranty, plus roadside assis tance for a similar period.
AT A GLANCE
MODEL LINE-UP:
QASHQAI ST: $32,665
QASHQAI ST-L: $37,665
Capped price servicing (with conditions) is available for the first five years.
The new Qashqai design language is punctuated by ‘commas’ kicked off up front by high gloss, 3-D comma-shaped elements appearing to float between the bonnet lip and number plate, according to Nissan. The elements out back copy the front grille commas with their distinctive ‘super red’ shade and clear lenses.
Nissan has wheeled out a string of designs and sizes, starting with 17-inch alloys for the ST, 18-inch diamond cut alloy wheels adorn the ST-L, the Ti gets 19-inch alloys, while the Ti-L and new N-Design feature new 20-inch diamond-cut wheel designs.
Three new colours have been added to the Qashqai spectrum, including Pearl White, Black Onyx and Deep Ocean.
On top of everything, there is an option of a black roof on Ti grade and above.
QASHQAI TI: $42,965
QASHQAI TI-L: $48,165
QASHQAI TI-L E-POWER: $52,365
QASHQAI N-DESIGN E-POWER: $54,365
NOTE: These prices do not include government of dealer delivery charges.
‘Elevated’ is the word the maker likes to use in reference to the 2025 Qashqai.
The cabin comes in for particular note for the cabin with its ‘upscale ambience’ centred on new patterned materials on the centre console and insert between the dashboard and glovebox.
The Ti is dressed up by Alcantara on the dash, door inserts and armrests, centre console storage lid, and knee pads.
Another dimension is applied by ambient lighting of a range of colours.
Seats are PVC and leather accented, the front heated, with the driver boasting an eightway power adjustable position with memory function, the pas-
senger with lumbar support.
Cargo space out back in the five-seater is 479 litres with seat backs raised, rising to 1422 litres with them folded.
Powertrain equipment leaves room only for a temporary spare.
As with the previous model, the newbie calls on one of two powertrains.
One pairs a 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine (110kW/250Nm) with CVT transmission.
Three drive modes – standard, eco and sport – add to ride and handling versatility.
Also available is Nissan’s clever e-Power set-up, comprising a 1.5-litre three-cylinder
DECKED OUT: The 2025 Nissan Qashqai has seen a number of updates to the model, but prices relatively unchanged.
turbo-petrol unit, with a power generator, inverter and electric motor, delivering a combined output of 140kW and 330Nm.
Nissan’s e-Pedal Step and regenerative braking has the e-Power behaving like a full electric EV, leaving the internal combustion engine only to charge the battery.
The Qashqai attracts a fivestar rating from ANCAP’s 2021 testing.
Standard features include seven airbags, including frontcentre, while autonomous emergency braking features pedestrian and cyclist detection, plus junction assist.
Also across the range are active speed limiter, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, forward collision and lane departure warning, lane keep assist, rear parking sensors, reversing camera, traffic sign recognition, and tyre pressure monitor.
The Ti e-Power provides 360-degree camera, moving object detection, front parking sensors, ProPILOT lane centring, alarm system, intelligent park assist (semi-auto park) and side parking sensors.
The Qashqai chassis is set up on the sporty side, the stiff suspension competing with the softer clubby surrounds in a cabin that well insulates occupants from engine and
road noise.
Handling and steering feedback are positive, the latter, however, subject to jarring on bigger bumps in the bitumen. Turbo torque is enough to give handy acceleration, something that often plagues CVTequipped models.
Nissan rates Qashqai Ti fuel consumption on the combined urban/highway cycle at between 5.8 and 6.1 litres per 100 kilometres.
The test vehicle recorded 4.8 litres per 100 kilometres on the motorway and nine to ten litres per 100 kilometres in day-today city and suburban work. Premium unleaded petrol (95 RON) is recommended by the maker.
With upgrades at no extra cost and warranty out to 10 years, the handsome Qashqai deserves to be on anybody’s shortlist (sorry) for a small SUV.
RATINGS
Looks: 8
Performance: 6
Safety: 7
Thirst: 6
Practicality: 7
Comfort: 6
Tech: 7
Value: 8
STANDARD WARRANTY
Ten years / 300,000 kilometres (conditional)
Capped price servicing five years Roadside assist 10 years
Suitably qualified applicants are invited to apply for the following positions for 2026.
Full-time/ongoing:
VCE Psychology/Science Teacher (Middle/Senior School)
VCE Legal Studies and Humanities Teacher (Middle/Senior School)
Learning Enhancement Teacher (Middle School)
Food and Technology Teacher (Middle/Senior School)
Performing Arts Teacher (Prep to Year Ten)
English Teacher (VCE, Middle/Senior School)
Vocational Pathways Leader (Secondary)
Part-time/ongoing
School Counsellor (0.6)
For some roles, the ability to teach an additional subject is required or desirable. Please refer to our website, www.cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au for position descriptions and application closing dates. Cathedral College Wangaratta is a Child Safe School and an Equal Opportunity Employer
Service Coordination Officer (Rostering)
Alpine Health is seeking a full time proactive and organised Service Coordination Officer(Rostering) to join our Community Care team in Myrtleford.
This vital role supports the delivery of aged and community care services, including Support at Home and the Commonwealth Home Support Program, through effective rostering, admin support, and outstanding customer service.
What we’re looking for:
Strong admin, customer service & finance experience
Team player with excellent communication skills
Confident using computers and managing records
Applications close 6 August 2025
Enquiries
peter.burgess@alpinehealth.org.au 03 5751 9300
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. Applicants should be:
1. Computer literate with the ability to learn new systems.
2. Experienced in stock control and inventory systems.
3. Excellent time management and organizational skills.
4. High level of Customer Service and teamwork.
5. Hold a current Drivers Licence.
6. 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.
AGL’s Renewables division is looking for an Electrical Engineer or A-Grade Electrician with High Voltage experience to join our
You will be responsible for compliance and condition monitoring testing of 14 Power
This opportunity will suit an individual who has a passion for working within the Energy industry and looking to further develop their
For more information please visit www.agl.com.au/about-agl/careers Talent Partner (JToth@agl.com.au).
2015 Lagoon caravan 17’6 semi off-road, reg to 2026, solar/AC, electronic stability control, 3-way fridge/ freezer, full ensuite, led lights, duel LPG tanks (full), duel jerry tank holders, grey water tank, $37,500 ONO. Ph 0404 206 586.
POULTRY AUCTION
Sunday, August 10, 2025
Commencing at 11am at Euroa Showgrounds Bookings essential Catalogue available LAST AUCTION EVER! Ph 0416 151 696 Metrys Auction Co. FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Park Funerals P. 03 5721 5060 W. masonpark.com.au
SCAN ME to apply and for more information.
SUBARU Outback 2.5i petrol premium AWD, Venetian Red, black leather interior, one owner, 116,000km, 12 months rego (AEN996), full service record, adaptive cruise control, first registered July 2015, great condition, $19,500 ONO. Ph 0401 916 667.
ORIGINAL 1996 Ford XR6 XH Falcon Ute, manual, reg till Oct 16 (ZZS948), 247,196km, $10,000 ONO. Ph 0431 396 083.
FORD Fairlane Ghia, new tyres, new h/ lining, new exhaust, electric brakes, tow bar, Tickford motor, 163,000km, reg (SHS752), RWC, $9500. Ph 0438 251 532.
Photographer Melissa Beattie made her way out to Ovens and King round 17 match between Tarrawingee and Bright to snap some shots of the football and netball.
Kangaroos 3.2 5.4 8.6 13.11 (89) Tigers 0.2 1.2 2.2 2.2 (14)
GOALS: KANGAROOS: H. Jacka 5, M. Murphy 3, A. Symons 2, A. Brett 1, J. Scheier 1, L. Pizzini 1. TIGERS: M. Togolo-Hill 1, R. Webb 1.
BEST: KANGAROOS: M. Murphy, O. Reynolds, J. Scheier, m. sacco, A. Symons, K. Jackson. TIGERS: R. Webb, H. Gibb, L. Alexander, S. Morey, M. Togolo-Hill, O. Mullane.
Benalla
GOALS: BENALLA: T. Maru 1, B. Hazell 1. BRIGHT: H. Johnston 3, E. Lodge 3, T. Brierty 2, N. White 1, B. Brady 1, O. Dalbosco 1.
(18)
(82)
BEST: Benalla: B. Cooney, T. Maru, A. Richardson, J. Fry, W. Martin, L. Boulton. BRIGHT: H. Johnston, K. Hall-Bidois, E. Lodge, a. murrells, H. West, O. Lewis.
Mansfield
KANGAROOS: M. Coleman 3, R. MACKINNON-BURMAN
TIGERS: B. Kantor
Togolo-Hill 1. BEST: KANGAROOS: C. Kelly, E. Byrne, B. Jackson, C. Willoughby, M. Coleman, H. Edwards. TIGERS: J. Robinson, M. Simpson, K. Ackroyd, H. Togolo-Hill, H. Sharp, P. Dummett. Benalla Black
GOALS: BENALLA BLACK: R. Hilton 2, O. Wardill 2, O. Parker 1, R. White 1. BEST: BENALLA BLACK: H. Ross, J. Montgomery, N. White, J. Bamford, R. White, C. Bell, BRIGHT: H. Bruneau, D. Finlaw, O. Kelly, J. Toy, A. Humphry, K. O’Donnell.
Mansfield JFC Blue
Kangaroos: Z.
Z.
L.
F. McCoy. TIGERS: C. Togolo-Hill, H. Vandersteeg, F. Clare, C. Carter, A. Tekesic, N. Fitzpatrick.
(45) Imperials
(43)
GOALS: MANSFIELD: R. Watts 2, Z. Hotton 1, T. Gerrans 1, W. Benton 1, A. Kipping 1, J. Turner 1. IMPERIALS: H. Bandt 2, B. McMonigle 1, M. Marek 1.
BEST: MANSFIELD: S. Kain, T. Kynnersley, J. Turner, C. Purday, K. Middleton, A. Kipping. IMPERIALS: C. Flynn, R. Canning, J. O’Connor, B. Benton, P. Stamp.
(25)
(97)
GOALS: CENTRALS: C. Kennedy 2, R. Parsons 1. JUNIOR MAGPIES: J. Comensoli 4, S. McIntosh 3, J. Parker 2, H. Scalzo 2, A. Hardman 1, C. Littel 1, C. Briggs 1, H. Allan 1.
BEST: CENTRALS: K. Wohlers, C. Ormond, C. Kennedy, R. Parsons, A. Castle, J. Lewis. JUNIOR MAGPIES: H. Allan, H. Scalzo, A. Hardman, M. James, C. Littel.
GOALS: Myrtleford: R. Harris 1. COLLEGE: N. Allan 1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: N. Robb, A. Morgan, R. Harris, B. McMasters, J. Bruneau, K. Gillies. COLLEGE: F. Burgan, L. Pensak, A. Peebles, L. Dillon, N. Allan, D. Ciccone.
GOALS: MANSFIELD BLUE: W. Hewitt 1, M. Storer 1, O. Pigdon 1. COLLEGE: L. O’Brien 8, C. O’Brien 2, C. Bowman 1, C. Hourigan 1. BEST: MANSFIELD BLUE: R. Purday, L. Stevenson, H. Shevlin, J. Clydesdale, J. Kynnersley, J. Heath. COLLEGE: C. O’Brien, C. Bowman, L. Pensak, L. O’Brien, T. Hill, K. Hope. Myrtleford 3.3
Benalla Red
GOALS: MYRTLEFORD: S. Lupo 4, C. Schell 2, M. Mcmasters 1, A. Knobel 1. BENALLA RED: J. Hart 4, T. Mount 1, J. Binion 1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: S. Lupo, A. Knobel, B. McMahon, N. Durling, B. Parolin, M. McMasters. BENALLA RED: J. Hart, X. De Fazio, C. Pollard, J. Pollard, T. Snell, T. Mount.
Centrals
Junior Magpies
GOALS: CENTRALS: N. Jones 4, J. Morris 1, F. Fletcher 1, L. Doig 1, R. Sinclair 1. JUNIOR MAGPIES: S. Patterson 2, L. Sloan 1. BEST: CENTRALS: C. Blair, N. Jones, J. Bennett, W. Boulton, J. Morris, A. Fraser. JUNIOR MAGPIES: A. Bell, L. Cannata, J. Davern, S. Tredinnick, E. Harris, D. Lawrey. Mansfield Yellow 3.3
GOALS: MANSFIELD YELLOW: B. Turner 4, J. Hoskin 3, H. Yencken 2, C. Logan Williams 1. IMPERIALS: G. Marek 3. BEST: MANSFIELD YELLOW: M. Watson, L. Roberts, H. Yencken, B. Turner, J. Hoskin, L. Mccoombe. IMPERIALS: G. Marek, S. Savage, J. Campbell, T. Sealey, A. Hayward, S. Orr.
J.
1, N. Herschell 1, L. Jackson 1. BEST: BENALLA BLACK: C. Thwaites, O. Ross, J. Jackson, L. Osborne, B. Parker, B. Bourke. BRIGHT: N. Herschell, J. Peace, L. McConnachie, K. Andersen, L. Humphry, O. Dykes.
CENTRALS: J. Oats 5, J. Vincent 2, J. Woodrow 1, B. Mawson 1, A.
C.
O. Forster, J.
L.
B. Mawson, J. Vincent. JUNIOR MAGPIES: E. Davies, W. Hernan, R. Gambold, E. Wright, C. Cook, X. Graham.
1, M.
1. BEST: MYRTLEFORD: C. Corcoran, C. Maxey, N. Michelini, E.McNaught, B. McLean, O. Pethybridge. BENALLA RED: T. Smith, H. Kupke, E. Bourke, E. Sheehan, B. McKean, X. Beriman.
Five Marian College students travelled to Yarra Valley on Thursday, 24 July to compete in the SSV state cross country championships.
Year 7 student Matilda Xerri ran first at her first ever state event and really soaked in the experience and ran well.
Sisters Milla and Gemma Corcoran, and Zahra and Jade Hazeldine also made the trip down for this event.
All students felt they ran a great race and were able to finish strong.
Matilda, Gemma and Milla were all pleased with their runs and loved the experience of competing at the state level.
Zahra was able to push through her pain barrier and finished 23rd in her group out of 50 which was a great achievement.
The standout for the day was Jade Hazeldine, who finishing in first place in the 17 to 20 year old age group in a time of 11min 36sec, earning her the SSV State Championship title
“Running wasn’t the hard part, dealing with the nerves was,” she said.
Saturday, 26 July
Jo Ross Jackson Hearing
STABLEFORD AMCR 71
A Grade Winner: David Jackson (14)
39 pts. A Grade Runner Up: Tristan Purss (14) 38 pts.
Ball Winners: Brad Carroll 31.
Foodworks NTPs - 4th 2nd Shot: Brad Carroll, 14th: David Jackson, 16th: Chris Rowney.
Matthews Cleaning Encouragement Award: Gerard Black 19 pts.
Raffle Winner: Chris Rowney. Thursday, 24 July
Jo Ross Jackson Hearing Services
Stableford AMCR 73
A Grade Winner: Angela O’Shaughnessy (16) 35 pts. A Grade Runner Up: Jan Harper (31) 34pts.
Ball Winners: Marg Curtis 33pts, Jan Roseby 32pts, Kerry Newton 31, Marnie Broz 29 pts.
Foodworks NTPs - 8th: Marnie Broz, 14th: Denise O’Donohue.
Wednesday, 23 July
Jo Ross Jackson Hearing Services
Stableford AMCR 71
A Grade Winner: Barrie Bynon (28)
35 pts. A Grade Runner Up: Warren Rowney (25) 34 pts c/b.
Ball Winners: D Matthews 34, A Roseby 33.
Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Gerard Black, 4th 2nd Shot: Jade Galvan, 14th: Jon Harrington, 16th: David Matthews. Last Saturday, the club conducted a junior tournament.
Winners - Midgets: Spenser Reynolds. Tweens: Archie Knobel. Rookies: Ben McMasters.
From the start line I was in the front, leading the pack of 90 girls.
“I felt strong and confident once the race started, but there is a hill midway through the race, and this hill set me back to fifth position.
“But with my determination, I locked in and got back into first place coming down the slippery hill. “The last 800m was the most mentally and physically challenging part - I needed to give everything I
MOUNT BEAUTY GOLF CLUB
No one ventured onto the course on a very ordinary Wednesday, 23 July. Saturday 26 July was ‘Red Tee’ day for the men which was won by Dave Browning with 35 points from Roger Church with 34 points.
NTP on the 7th, along with the Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post Office, was Victor Selway.
The ninth was Roger Church, the 17th was Peter Hertzog, and no one was able to get onto the 18th - the Club kept the money.
BRIGHT COUNTRY GOLF CLUB
“As you walk down the fairway of life you must smell the roses, for you only get to play one round,” – Anonymous. This quote encourages appreciating the present moment and finding joy in
everyday experiences.
With those interesting thoughts still reverberating around your brain, it’s time to look back at last week’s results from the Bright Country Golf Club.
Sunday, 20 July, 9-hole Stableford all gender competition
Winner: Sam Buckley 29 H/C 26 wonderful points. Runner up: Brodie Brain 17 pts.
NTPs - 11th: Sam Buckley. Monday, 21 July, all gender Stableford competition.
With most of those good golfers (well, those who think they are) playing in the North East Veteran’s competition at Yarrawonga, it was left to the Bright locals to compete in the Monday Vet’s comp.
Winner: Robert Taylor 8 H/C 34 pts C/B from Graham Badrock, 34 pts.
had for that blue medal, and I did.
“Winning by six seconds was the most astonishing feeling ever, I could’ve cried.
“I’m so proud of myself and can’t wait to see what my future holds.”
right direction taken by Dederang-Mount Beauty’s senior football side against Beechworth on Saturday.
Despite going down by 80 points after four gruelling quarters, the travelling Bombers, who have dealt with a swag of heavy losses throughout the season, put up a great fight going headto-head with the perennial finalists, who are rarely seen outside the top five teams.
tell the whole story of the game played in wintery Beechworth conditions.
The Bombers kicked three goals in the first term and took the game right up to the more-fancied Bushrangers, who slotted five themselves in a high-scoring opening
DMB ran out of legs in the final term and let the margin drift, conceding five goals to
Skipper Jacob Ozolins led from the front in more ways than one with a season-best three-goal haul and took his usual place amongst his side’s best players.
Ricky Clarke, as well as playing co-coaches Jaydn Chalmers and Tom McGhee, did their best around the footy to influence the result.
Ball winner: Berney Neville. NTPs: Robert Taylor cleaned up winning the 3rd, 6th and 11th, and allowed Heather Thompson to win the 16th.
Thursday, 24 July, Men’s Stableford competition.
A field of 32 golfers played and out of those, five played well under their handicaps.
Winners: Mark (Zorro) Zwiersen 14 H/C 40 pts, Cameron Wickes playing off scratch had 69 off the stick for 39 pts C/B, Buffalo Bill Kelty 21 H/C 39 pts C/B.
Ball winners: John O’Shea 39pts, Ray ‘the Borsch’ Borschmann 38pts, David Kelly 36pts, Graham Badrock 35pts.
NTPs - 3rd: John O’Shea, 6th: Mark Zwiersen, 11th: Hugh Kirk, 16th: Cameron Wickes.
The chicken winner was Mark Zwiersen with 21 points. The NAGA went to Craig Thompson who will enjoy a drink from his new Waverley Tennis Club champaign flute, with the respectable 27 points.
Friday 25th of July, Ladies 9-hole Stableford competition. The big winner for Friday was Gina Losch with a very fine, 26 pts. Runners up, Jan Bird 23 pts and Michelle Barker 18 pts.
Saturday 26th of July was a complete and total washout. With the only good thing about Saturday was, if you weren’t golfing, there was always a trip to the snow.
The Bright Golf Guru thought of the week, ‘playing golf the way we do, is to experience the good, the bad and sometimes ugly aspects of doing something that we love.’
Finn Kernaghan, Isaac Sullivan and Cameron Walch also hit the scoreboard with majors.
The Bombers’ reserves outfit had a good look at victory as they trailed by only a goal at three quarter time after a comeback in the third term, but the game ended in a 31-point loss.
On the netball court, Dederang Mount-Beauty’s A grade netballers survived a scare against Beechworth, with the four premiership points sealed after a 27-20 win.
Up by five at half time, the Bombers were relatively in control of the game before the Bushrangers ate into the lead to bring the margin back to four goals with one quarter remaining.
The finals-bound Bombers held their nerve and the lead to claim their eleventh win of the season, and even managed to jump into fourth position on the TDNA league ladder courtesy of Thurgoona’s loss to Chiltern.
With their own 11-4 winloss record to be proud of, the B grade Bombers find themselves in third spot, but face three top-five sides on the run home and may need to win at least two matches to guarantee a date with Sandy Creek.
With three rounds to go in the regular season, DMB are on the road again to Mitta.
LAVINGTON
GOALS: LAVINGTON: S. Driscoll 3, T. Oosterhoff 3, A. Swinnerton 1, J. O’Brien 1, C. Sanson 1, E. Perryman 1, D. Smith 1. ALBURY: R. Garthwaite 2, H. Cameron 2, K. Heiner-Hennessy 1, M. Walker 1, E. Ziebarth 1, W. Blomeley 1. BEST: LAVINGTON: A. Bennett, C. Annett, J. Hart, S. Driscoll, T. Oosterhoff, D. Beavan. ALBURY: B. Kelly, W. Unthank, J. Gaynor, E. Ziebarth, J. Hillary, H. Cameron.
JULY19-20
A GRADE: Lavington 32 def Albury 30; Wangaratta 60 def Wang Rovers 37
B GRADE: Lavington 42 def Albury 41; Wangaratta 51 def Wang Rovers 44
C GRADE: Lavington 76 def Albury 26; Wangaratta 38 def by Wang Rovers 44 17 & U: Lavington 327def Albury 27; Wangaratta 47 def by Wang Rovers 54
15 & U: Lavington 42 def Albury 21; Wangaratta 48 def Wangaratta Rovers 31
A GRADE: Wodonga Raiders 49 def by Nth Albury 51; Yarrawonga 50 def Wodonga 32; Corowa Rutherglen 55 def Myrtleford 31
B GRADE: Wodonga Raiders 46 def Nth Albury 32; Yarrawonga 38 def Wodonga 25; Corowa Rutherglen 43 def Myrtleford 31
C GRADE: Wodonga Raiders 49 def Nth Albury 21; Yarrawonga 37 def Wodonga 31; Corowa Rutherglen 38 def by Myrtleford 44
17 & U: Wodonga Raiders 54 def Nth Albury 26; Yarrawonga 24 def by Wodonga 42; Corowa Rutherglen 30 def by Myrtleford 45
15 & U: Wodonga Raiders 58 def Nth Albury 29; Yarrawonga 24 def by Wodonga 39; Corowa Rutherglen 20 def by Myrtleford 66
JULY19-20
Wangaratta 4.8 (32) def by Rovers 10.8 (68)
GOALS: WANGARATTA: K. Hadley, J. Blake, H. Laverty, R. Schultz. WANG ROVERS: R. McNamara 3, J. Correll 2, J. Comensoli 2, C Breheny, K. Wohlers, M. Semmens. BEST: WANGARATTA: W. Prebble, C. Bott, H. Laverty, D. O’Sullivan, A. Jayet, K. Burrows. WANG ROVERS: J. Wohlers, K. Wohlers, E. Saunders, C. Boman, T. Ford, J. Allan.
Lavington 9.9 (63) def Albury 7.4 (46)
GOALS: LAVINGTON: R. Costello 2, C. Hall 2, I. Robertson 2, C. Way 1, A. Toohey 1, T. Goonan 1. ALBURY: R. O’Sullivan 2, L. Reid 2, J.
Whiting 1, J. Quade 1, L. Wheatley 1. BEST: LAVINGTON: T. Goonan, R. Costello, C. Way, A. Russell, C. Hall, S. Junck. ALBURY J. Quade, R. O’Sullivan, D. Dunstan, L. Wheatley, S. O’Connell, J. Whiting.
JULY26
Corowa Rutherglen 14.7 (91) def Myrtleford 6.5 (41)
GOALS: Corowa Rutherglen: D. Purcell 9, J. Massey-chase 3, H. Hall 1, W. Forrest 1. MYRTLEFORD: S. Colson 1, T. Cooper 1, C. Ashworth 1, T. Miller 1, H. Stripeikis 1, C. Piazza 1. BEST: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: D. Purcell, B. Hanrahan, B. Eyers, T. Longmire, J. Lavis, H. Hall. MYRTLEFORD: C. Ashworth, N. McMonagle, z. carroll, S. Colson, L. McManus, T. Miller. Wodonga Raiders 8.6 (54) def North Albury 4.5 (29) Yarrawonga 8.3 (51) def by Wodonga 8.6 (54)
GOALS: WANGARATTA: X. Laverty 2, N. Richards 2, A. Tilley 2, A. Federico, D. Sharrock. WANGARATTA ROVERS: C. Thompson 3, W. Christie 2, A. McCarthy 2, T. Boyd, N. Cooper, J. Dal Zotto, E Dayman, B. Filo. BEST: WANGARATTA: B. Melville, N. Richards, P. Wright, M. Bordignon, A. Tilley, M. Grossman. WANGARATTA ROVERS: C. Thompson, K. Parnell, J. Rigoni, X. Allison, N. Cooper, B. Filo.
GOALS: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: K. Bradtke 3, J. Longmire 2, N. Amery 1, T. Forrest 1.
MYRTLEFORD: B. Calogero 3, R. Sharp 3, L. Murphy-Dale 3, D. Bedendo 1, M. Munro 1, D. Harrington 1, B. Ricardi 1, R. Smith 1, M. Tenardi 1. BEST: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: J. Eyers, J. Cresswell, J. Rowston, N. Richards, J. Foote, N. Amery. MYRTLEFORD: L. Hourigan, M. Tenardi, D. Harrington, R. Smith, B. Calogero, J. East.
*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.
A GRADE:
King Valley 23 def by Greta 43; Benalla All Blacks 21 def by Whorouly 44; Nth Wangaratta 15 def by Moyhu 48; Tarrawingee 32 def Bright 23; Milawa 42 drew with Goorambat 42
B GRADE:
King Valley 21 def by Greta 52; Benalla All Blacks 26 def by Whorouly 45; Nth Wangaratta 30 def by Moyhu 49; Tarrawingee 23 def by Bright 32; Milawa 33 drew with Goorambat 33
B RESERVE:
King Valley 23 def by Greta 56; Benalla All Blacks 37 def Whorouly 28; Nth Wangaratta 21 def by Moyhu 55; Tarrawingee 36 def by Bright 48; Milawa 38 def Goorambat 18
C GRADE:
Benalla All Blacks 39 def Whorouly 34; Nth Wangaratta 13 def by Moyhu 49; Tarrawingee 23 def by Bright 35
15&UNDER:
Benalla All Blacks 30 def Whorouly 22; Nth Wangaratta 8 def by Moyhu 40; Tarrawingee 10 def by Bright 26 Not all scores available at time of print
SAT, AUGUST 2
GOORAMBAT vs BONNIE DOON
BRIGHT vs MOYHU
WHOROULY vs NTH WANGARATTA
GRETA vs TARRAWINGEE
BENALLA vs MILAWA
KING VALLEY - BYE
BEST: YARRAWONGA: B. Kennedy, B. Coghill, C. Wilson, H. Wheeler, Z. Fraser, N. Fothergill. WODONGA: N. Spiteri, C. Morrison, M. Wilson, T. Miller, T. O’Sullivan, J. O’Sullivan.
GOALS: WODONGA RAIDERS: E. Boxall 2, J. Cannell 1. NORTH ALBURY: J. Murphy 7, J. Minogue 4, K. Flack 2, T. Broomhead 2, N. Dennis 1, J. Reynolds 1, A. Gardiner 1, J. Penny 1. BEST: WODONGA RAIDERS: B. Jones, E. Boxall, B. St John, J. Casey, C. Rich, W. Robertson. NORTH ALBURY: N. Dennis, A. Gardiner, J. Hayes, J. Murphy, F. Gardiner, J. Penny. WOD.
GOALS: KING VALLEY: L. Toohey 2, H. Sims 2. GRETA: H. Moran 8, J. McClounan 5, T. Cheer 2, B. Newbold 1, F. Judd 1, C. Crawford 1. BEST: KING VALLEY: C. Davies, T. Roman, O. Day, T. Stewart, B. Collihole, H. Cook. GRETA: J. McClounan, C. Crawford, H. Moran, J. Kelly, J. Bell, T. Cheer.
GOALS: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: D. Sinclair 2, T. Levy 2, S. Cox 1, M. Ryan 1, K. Linke 1, M. White 1. WHOROULY: M. Newton 12, J. Smith 5, J. Bihun 3, L. Moore 1, J. Newton 1.
BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: S. Cox, A. Hillaire, K. Glass, K. Linke, T. Levy, L. Sinclair. WHOROULY: J. Smith, M. Newton, J. Bihun, L. Moore, Z. Bladon, M. Vescio.
NTH WANGARATTA 3.6 5.7 8.12 9.14.68 MOYHU 1.0 1.3 3.6 5.10.40
GOALS: NORTH WANGARATTA: J. Devine 4, J. Nanson 2, D. Killen 1, T. Nanson 1, C. Smith 1.
MOYHU: J. Hansted 1, D. West 1, N. Stewart 1, P. McNamara 1, M. Thrum 1.
BEST: NORTH WANGARATTA: J. Devine, B. Raggett, K. McQuade, H. Fraser, B. Kusen, Z. Lea. MOYHU: C. Gibson, P. McNamara, N. Stewart, D. Carmody, G. Hearn, M. Thrum.
GOALS: TARRAWINGEE: D. Witham 1, O. Sharp 1. BRIGHT: C. Thomason 7, P. Bren 2, W. Wales 2, J. Hudghton 1, R. Bacon 1, C. Martin 1, C. Banks 1, J. Crawley 1, R. Arguello 1, D. Chellew 1, S. Dalbosco 1.
BEST: TARRAWINGEE: T. Heywood, A. Beck, H. Amery, O. Sharp, A. Amery, N. Redley. BRIGHT: C. Thomason, D. Chellew, J. Hudghton, R. Arguello, W. Wales, S. Dalbosco.
T. Dowling, T. Muldoon, S. Bigger, R. Bone. Wodonga: D. Cameron, C. Williamson, B. Russell, D. Norman, R. Mimmo, D. Jones. Corowa R’glen 6 5 (41) Myrtleford
7 9 (51)
BEST: COROWA RUTHERGLEN: J. Butson, C. Bertram, J. Ugle, B. Minogue, H. Canning, D. Clancy. MYRTLEFORD: R. Grant, L. Miotto, C. Crisp, A. Bedendo, N. Ferguson, J. Hazeldine. ROUND15
SATURDAY, AUGUST 2 WANG ROVERS VS YARRAWONGA
WODONGA VS COROWA RUTHERGLEN NORTH ALBURY VS
BEST: TARRAWINGEE W. Phillips, E. Ryan, D. Cleal, J. Canning, B. Nolan, B. Hamill. BRIGHT: B. Nightingale, P. Crocombe, M. Kinthari, P. Harrison, S. Cinquegrana, H. Jamieson. Benalla All Blacks 0 0 (0) Whorouly ���������������� 17�26 (128)
BEST: BENALLA ALL BLACKS: D. Whitelaw-Orton, B. Marlborough, D. Whitechurch,
In a low-scoring yet captivating game of A grade netball, Bright have been unable to take home the points from their road trip to Tarrawingee last Saturday.
The visitors, who had to endure terrible weather conditions along with a matchhardened and in-form opponent, kept pace with the second-placed Bulldogs for more than three quarters, but lost their grip on the match that ended in a 23-32 defeat.
It was tough going from the outset as the 5-7 and 1112 scores after each of the first two quarters suggested, but Bright brought their best defensive game in the opening half as the teams traded goals, which were like gold as the rain tumbled down.
As they trailed by three goals with a quarter to go, Bright made one last surge before the might of Tarrawingee on their home court proved to be too strong.
Coach Ash Grimes was forced to shuffle the magnets once again in the absence of star goaler Emily Nightingale, which forced reliable defender Amber Quirk to make the switch into attack to partner the emerging Hannah Witts.
Despite missing out on the four points, Grimes knows that she has plenty to work with in the run home to a probable finals berth.
“We were right in the game until three quarter time,” Grimes said.
“Our one-on-one defensive pressure down the court was a positive for us, which turned into Molly [Whitty] being able to get a lot of turnovers for us.”
“I think our attack started well, and we had some great patience against tough defenders, but I think in the last quarter we let the pres-
ball on in the soggy conditions.
sure get to us and played into their defence.”
Speaking on this Saturday’s season-defining clash against seventh-placed Moyhu, Grimes emphasised that Bright (sixth) is still well and truly on the right track, and can break the hearts and finals hopes of their travelling opponents with a win.
“There was a lot to learn and take from the game and every week is an opportunity to learn and grow,” she said. “I think a bit of a revisit of our game plan, pinpointing what is working and what isn’t working from that and regrouping this week to put our best brand of netball out on the court again Moyhu.”
In senior football, Bright remain on top of the OKFNL ladder with three rounds to go after a comfortable 119-point wet-weather win over Tarrawingee.
The Mountain Men seemed to forget they were playing in the rain as they piled on nine goals in the opening term, which ended in a 19.21 (135)
to 2.4 (16) result. Cooper Thomason kicked seven goals in a best on ground effort, while in-form sidekicks Patrick Bren and Wayland Wales added two goals of their own. Bright will play in front of their home fans for the last time this season against Moyhu this Saturday.
By NATHAN DE VRIES
It was a good day to be a Whorouly supporter on Saturday, with the club claiming four out of seven wins at Benalla’s Friendlies Oval despite horrendous conditions.
On the football field, senior coach Michael Newton starred with a 12-goal haul to help the Lions post a 94-point win, 22.18 (150) to 8.8 (56).
Despite a fade in the second quarter, which allowed the Panthers slightly back into the game, it was a complete rout, with Whorouly simply too good
for the opposition.
The carnage up forward brings Newton’s season total to a whopping 99 goals with three matches left in the bank.
Newton will hope to move to triple figures in front of a booming home crowd this weekend against North Wangaratta.
Jessie Smith continued to show why he’s one of the best in the league, finishing with five goals, while Joel Bihun, Lachy Moore and Zac Bladon were impressive all day.
It was even more one-sided in the earlier reserves clash,
which saw the Lions keep Benalla scoreless in the 17.26 (128) to nothing annihilation.
Whoouly booted 10 goals in the first half and controlled all aspects of the game, and the margin could’ve been even more if the Lions had converted on a litany of chances in the fourth quarter.
The reserves have all but guaranteed a finals berth, with Ben Harrington, Dan White and Chris Buckland all among the best on ground for the day.
On the rain-slicked netball court, the A grade Lions
broke their two-game draw streak with a comprehensive 44-21 win over the Panthers.
With the wet weather hampering clean play, and with the top six as close as it has been for many years, the Lions needed a strong start, which is what they delivered.
A 12 goal to six opening stanza set the tone for the match, the visiting Whorouly managing conditions better then Benalla.
While the second quarter was much more contested and defensively-minded, the Lions were still on top, the margin out to seven by
the major break. The Lions would maintain their class after half-time, outscoring the Panthers in the third by five goals to lead 29-16 with 15 minutes to play.
Ultimately, the Lions would prove too good for Benalla, with Whorouly banking the full points for the first time since round 14.
The defensive end continued to fire, while the connection between the midcourters and shooters was impressive in trying conditions.
Whorouly sits third overall with three matches left, and
their chances for a top-two finish and crucial second chance in finals remain as strong as anyone’s – if they win their final three games, they will guarantee to finish second.
In the other matches, the B graders shone with a 45-28 win, while the B reserve (2837), C grade (34-39) and under 15s (22-30) all came up short.
The Lions return home to Whorouly this weekend for their round 18 fixture against North Wangaratta, with multiple squads aiming to finetweak their games ahead of finals.
By NATHAN DE VRIES
Myrtleford continue to build through the back end of the year with their third victory on the trot, this time hammering Corowa Rutherglen away by 45 points.
The Saints capitalised on a fast start to run out winners 15.10 (100) to the Roos’ 7.13 (55).
Despite the marshy ground conditions at John Foord Oval, the Saints were playing dry weather footy to great effect, utilising their kick-mark game to move the ball into dangerous positions early.
The forwards reaped the rewards, with Myrtleford booting 6.3 in the opening term for the third week in a row, setting up a four-goal buffer through doubles to Ryley Sharp and Lachlan Murphy-Dale.
Conditions took hold in the second quarter, with the game being fought out a lot more at stoppage.
The Roos had a lot of the ball, but weren’t able to make any meaningful inroads on the scoreboard, with Myrtleford maintaining a 22-point
buffer heading into the half.
Momentum continued to flow Myrtleford’s way after the break, with the Saints’ goalkicking and clean skills proving the difference between the two sides.
A six goal to nil third term would put the final nail in Corowa’s day, with the Saints cruising to the four points.
Matt Munro racked up 28 disposals and 125 ranking points in his 50th senior game, while VFL listed local Dom Bedendo kicked a goal in his senior debut.
Lachie Hourigan was immense down back, while Bowen Calogero chipped in with three goals.
Senior coach Craig Millar said their preparation over the bye week leading into the match allowed them to attack the heavy ball early.
“We trained for the conditions all week, we dealt with them here with the weather and we decided to train on the track with the wet conditions knowing there was a pretty high chance that’s what we would be in for on the weekend,” he said.
“I was really pleased with
the way we prepared and the way they executed.
pretty sensibly, and we were able to score from that.”
STAGE IS SET: Myrtleford coach Craig Millar said the Saints are eager to get stuck into a massive month of footy ahead of finals.
“They were heavy conditions but the ground itself was holding up well, so it wasn’t the traditional boggy conditions like it would’ve been if it was at our ground.
“I thought we overused it a little early in the game, but I thought we adjusted to it.
“Once the rain stopped there for a period, we capitalised on that and played the conditions pretty well and
Millar praised his defensive unit, particularly Brady Sharp, who was able to keep league leading goalkicker Kaelan Bradtke to just three goals, most when the match had already been decided.
“Lachie Hourigan, Zac Pethybridge coming back in after a reasonable lay-off –it was good to see the band back together down there, and I thought they were great,” he said.
“They were really good, the back seven, but even our midfielders, we’ve been working hard with our midfield group around our defensive running patterns, they were super on the weekend.
“Brady Sharp did an outstanding job on Kaelan Bradtke – he finished with three goals but one was on the siren, one from a deliberate rush across the line and one came from an uncontested mark 10 metres in front
when Brady wasn’t playing on him, so he actually didn’t kick a goal on Brady and we celebrated that pretty hard.”
Earlier, the reserves recorded their 11th win of the season with a gritty 10-point triumph, 7.9 (51) to 6.5 (41), while the thirds went down 6.5 (41) to 14.7 (91).
Over on the netball court, it was another tough day for the A grade Saints who fell to the Roos 31-55.
It was always going to be a tough assignment against the ladder leaders, but Myrtleford looked up for the fight early.
A hard-fought first quarter saw the Saints trail by just six goals at quarter time, but the Roos put to foot down in the second to blow the margin out to 17 by half-time.
From there, Corowa controlled the game, but Myrtleford ran it out well.
In other games, the B graders went down 31-43, while the C grade (38-44), under 17 (45-30), and under 15 (66-20) all banked massive wins.
The Saints hit the road this Saturday to take on the Tigers at the Albury Sportsground.
Savoy men go back-to-back with consecutive D1M league championships
■ From back page
As they have done so often this season, Savoy simply dictated the terms of play, mixing attack and defence with clear ball movement and pinpoint perfect positioning.
“We controlled the game, our press was really good early in difficult conditions, but on a good, wide pitch we were able to pay some good football, which was pleasing,” Vescio said.
“We knocked the ball around well, our press when we didn’t have the ball was superb on a massive pitch.
“Will Keenan opened the scoring, we scored two goals inside the first 25 minutes, and a third before halftime.
“To be able to go into the second half, I thought the foot would come off the pedal a little bit but it didn’t, especially in the first 25 minutes.
“It puts an explanation mark on why we’ve been the best team over the course of the year.”
With the title secured with two matches left to play over three weeks before finals, many teams would be tempted to park the bus, rest up for a month, maybe try some new
combinations, but Savoy is different.
“It’s a pretty driven group at the moment, we carried on a little bit after securing the league and you can get a bit complacent, but this group wants to go unbeaten in the league,” Vescio said.
“It allows us two games to tinker with things but still strive to go unbeaten in the season – I can’t really recall a team that’s gone unbeaten in the league.
“They want more, so as a coach, it’s a pretty good spot to be in.
“Our list has been hampered in the last month but they’re all coming back.
“We will get minutes and manage players, but the seasoned campaigners who have had good, long seasons, they don’t want to rest.
“The drive’s definitely there, my goal is managing the minutes and the injuries list, then getting right for three league finals.”
Meanwhile, the reserve men fought out a gritty 3-2 win over Diamonds, taking them to fourth on the ladder with a record of 10-6-2.
Savoy hosts Albury City this weekend.
By NATHAN DE VRIES
It was a confluence of impediments for Myrtleford’s senior women’s side, facing poor ground conditions and a limited squad in their 0-5 loss on Sunday. Taking on Wodonga Diamonds at LaTrobe Ground, the weather was far from conducive, but the effort from Savoy was undeniable.
Despite unavailable players and tired bodies, senior co-coach Will Robinson-Dunn said he was proud of the fight shown for the full 90 minutes.
“Having eight players away this
weekend, and nine of our starting 11 having played in the reserves earlier in the day, it was a very hard game,” he said.
“The girls know we can’t choose the weather, and a big part of what Tom [Scott, co-coach] and I drive for is we always give 110% no matter what.
“We were one nil down at halftime and had three or four great opportunities to get on the scoreboard.
“The confidence was high going into the second half, but we ran out of legs.
“With our regular keeper Jess
Stringer out, Annie [Annabel Iaria] stepped in and had a fantastic game, the scoreline would have been much worse without her in goals.
“I couldn’t be more proud of their attitudes, especially from cocaptains Gabby [Paglia] and Alessia [Colanzi].”
While the seniors went down, it was a brilliant performance from the reserves, who came from behind to take the win over Diamonds 3-2.
The ressie women sit second on the ladder, eager to maintain their form when they host Albury City this weekend, while the senior women will take the bye.
Michael Elliott and the Bright defence were on song, conceding just two goals on their way to a 119-point win.
Story page 21. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie
Savoy men go back-to-back with
They were asked to prove their mettle, and they did – Myrtleford Savoy are the 2025 division one men’s league champions for the second year running.
The title was locked away on Sunday at LaTrobe Ground, where the senior men smashed Wodonga Diamonds 4-0,
BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au
guaranteeing they’ll finish atop the league table no matter what happens. Needing just one win from their last three matches, the boys in blue secured the title at the earliest possible opportunity, courtesy of three first-half goals from the damaging Savoy.
players through the bench to keep them fresh.
probably the best we’ve played in the last four to six weeks,” he said.
Once the lead was pushed to four goals, Savoy went into management mode, and were able to keep a clean sheet while rotating
Coach Jayden Vescio said it was a tremendous accomplishment to secure the league title as early as July without having a single loss in league play.
“It was just the perfect day, we played some really good football,
“It’s one of the special ones – I’ve been involved in five, but I don’t think we’ve won one in July, so to get it done so early with three fixtures remaining was pretty special.”
■ Continued page 22
