IN THE WORKS
Minor changes made to $1.3 Rutherglen Main Street improvements on back of community feedback
THE Department of Transport and Planning have made minor changes to their $1.3m Rutherglen Main Street pedestrian safety upgrades on the back of community feedback.
According to the project’s state government website, the Department of Transport and Planning have updated planned changes to minimise the loss of on-street car parking.
“A er receiving feedback from the community regarding the project, we’ve made some minor changes to the planned
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
improvements,” the department said.
“There will be no on-street parking impacts on the Murray Valley Highway (Main Street) near the Murphy Street roundabout.
“We will seek to use other measures to slow vehicles on this approach, including extending the 40km/h speed zone beyond
the roundabout on the Murray Valley Highway and ChilternRutherglen Road, and installing a speed cushion on the straight alignment approach to the roundabout from ChilternRutherglen Road.”
There have also been design changes to the installation of two kerb outstands near Bowling Green Lane.
The kerb outstands will still be installed, but changes to the signs to be installed at the location will be made to reduce the need to remove additional car parking
due to sightline considerations, according to the department.
“The kerb outstands are a valuable measure in alerting motorists that they are entering a changed road environment with increased pedestrian activity,” the department said.
Other safety improvements expected to come to the street will include new pedestrian-operated tra c lights between High Street and Murphy Street and a zebra crossing near Warrens Lane to improve pedestrian crossing near the newsagency and pharmacy.
Speed bumps will also be installed on the approach to the new pedestrian-operated tra c lights and the zebra crossing to assist in slowing vehicles ahead of the crossing points.
Zebra crossings and raised safety platforms will also be installed across High Street on both the northbound and southbound approaches to Main Street to slow vehicles accessing the intersection and provide a safer crossing location for pedestrians.
■ Continued page 2
THE Ovens and Murray Advertiser is celebrating 170 years of continuous publication in a historic milestone for one of Australia’s longest-running publications. Regular readers of the paper from Indigo U3A, Mhairi Nelson, Libby and Pieter Mourik, Neil Townsend, Brenda Nicholson, Jill Keith and Maureen O’Flaherty share their joys in looking through the local news each week as part of our special 12-page feature inside today’s edition celebrating our rich history.
PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
Farmers need real help to overcome drought - Tilley
BENAMBRA MP Bill Tilley says drought affected farmers are desperate for meaningful help, not a scheme to share the cost of hay sheds and poly pipes.
In the Victorian Parliament last week, Mr Tilley called for Indigo Shire to be added to the local government areas that can access the state government’s drought package.
Three weeks ago, he successfully lobbied for Towong to be placed on the list.
Mr Tilley said as the state government package stands now, it’s a co-contribution for hay sheds or poly pipe up to $5000.
“What our farmers need is financial assistance to buy and transport feed and fodder, in some instances they need water,” he said.
“Farmers across the district are struggling; farmers are paying exorbitant transport costs, in one instance $5500, to bring in fodder from interstate.
“Some in the Rutherglen area are unable to differentiate between their cropping and grazing paddocks as their properties have become dustbowls.”
Mr Tilley said farmers face the prospect of feeding out for the entire winter and rain in the past week will do little for crops or livestock with the onset of colder weather.
Tribute to First Nation’s artists and Elder Yackaduna
By CORAL COOKSLEY
A FORMER longtime Rutherglen resident travelled from the seaside town of Torquay to Rutherglen to attend the opening of a sculptural tribute to honour local First Nations artist and Elder Yackaduna (Tommy McRae 18351901) and his family on Saturday.
Ro Porter with her late husband Rob had been a driving force behind the ArtsRutherglen project.
“We were leaving Rutherglen with mixed emotions as we had spent a signi cant part of our lives in the town and wanted to give back to the community,” she said.
Ms Porter said Rob had been a strong advocator for education about the environment.
“We both taught history at the local high school with an understanding of colonisation,” she said.
“We were very aware of Tommy McRae as an extraordinary and famous person who no one knew about.
“We wanted to give something back in a way for people to learn, appreciate and value the land we all live on.
Ms Porter said the pair drew on Tommy McRae from teaching history.
“Tommy was on the national stage,” she said.
“Being in a position in our stage of life we could invest in the project.”
Acclaimed Wiradjuri artist Lorraine Connelly-Northey created the sculpture “A First Nations Canoe and Pronged Fishing Spear” as a personal tribute to mark the well-respected Indigenous artist.
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YOUR OVENS AND MURRAY TEAM
“I can’t say enough of how lucky we were to have Lorraine creating her sculpture,” Ms Porter said.
“Uncle Dozer with his daughter Jiarra are also connected to the Yackaduna’s family.”
Both Mr Porter and Ms Connelly-Northey delivered talks about Yackaduna’s in uence and inspiration for their projects.
Jiarra Atkinson, a descendent of Yackaduna, delivered a ‘Welcome to Country’ as well as sharing family stories of the Indigenous artist.
Ms Porter said Uncle Dozer had been moved that a small
country town paid tribute to a First Nations person.
The Elder spoke about conversations and connections and played his didgeridoo.
“The event was very special with an upli ing feeling,” Ms Porter said.
ArtsRutherglen’s Gail Steed also said the event had been uplifting.
“It was also inspiring and heartfelt, and a perfect outcome in achieving Rob and Ro Porter’s vision,” she said.
The event was o cially opened by Indi MP Helen Haines and drew more than a combined 50 people from Yackaduna’s Family and the community at Rutherglen’s Lake King.
“I felt we could all walk together today and it’s what we set out to achieve.”
Minor changes made to $1.3 Rutherglen Main Street improvements on back of community feedback
■ From front page
Three on-street car parking spaces will be removed to allow the installation of safety infrastructure and improve visibility for pedestrians.
The state government announced the $1.3m investment for the street last year a er two major incidents including a truck crash and a pedestrian collision which killed a 77-year-old woman occurred on Main Street, re-igniting
calls for urgent action to improve safety or a bypass to be implemented.
The exact timing for the expected works is due to be con rmed later this month.
A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said safer infrastructure on roads were being delivered right across the state.
“People moving around Rutherglen’s town centre will soon have safer and easier journeys,” they said.
Roberta Horne and Ro Porter.
PHOTOS: Toni Harris
IN THE WORKS: Rutherglen Main Street upgrades expected to take place in the coming months.
Celebrating 125 years for Rutherglen’s Wine Bottle
By CORAL COOKSLEY
NEW life continues to be breathed into Rutherglen’s historic wine bottle.
Once a working water tower, it has been transformed into a tourist attraction with an added dimension as a community hub for events.
The iconic landmark regarded by many residents as a beacon to the town celebrated its 125th anniversary on the ANZAC Day long weekend.
The event drew around 400 people over two days including cyclists from the Rutherglen Rotary’s Vintage Bike Ride.
The water tower had been built in 1899 to 1900 with the facility the primary water supply to Rutherglen until decommissioned in 1945 when it couldn’t keep up with supply demand.
Rutherglen Wine Bottle’s committee of management secretary Cooper Gabriel said the town had its inaugural wine festival in 1967, Some of the local wineries and artists boosted marketing with a wire mesh top in 1969.
“It became an icon for wineries as well,” Ms Gabriel said.
The Wine Bottle’s transition lies in a community driven project by
a group of passionate history bu s ‘Friends of the Rutherglen Wine Bottle’ created in 2010 to save the tower.
The group set out to give the affectionately known ‘old girl’ a new lease of life and in 2012 when they presented a submission to Indigo Shire Council to acquire the structure from North East Water.
North East Water undertook and paid for a restoration to make the building safe with a sale to council for one dollar in 2014, followed by the development of a master plan.
Ms Gabriel said she was excited to contribute with a musician to the Wine Bottle’s anniversary as a community project with a plan when a participant in the Tim Fisher Community Leadership Program two years ago.
“We took an idea to the committee of management, worked with the Rutherglen Historical Society and the Rutherglen Rotary Club,” she said.
Friends of the Rutherglen Wine Bottle member Nyree Wiggins said there have been many new initiatives taken while building on its existing history.
“With amazing interior acoustic qualities, successful performances and music events are held with the Wine Bottle opened up at week-
ends and during holidays drawing tourists and locals alike,” she said.
In exploring community engagement Ms Wiggins said the friends group linked up with the recent Rotary Club Vintage Bike Ride held in Wahgunyah.
“There’s new interest from cyclists and we are connected to the shire’s revitalization plan and are on cycling trails,” she said.
“It’s becoming more integral to the community for di erent reasons, and it has also been included on the national pro le for Big Things in Australia.
“We get the peregrine falcons nesting in it annually and is a big draw card for bird lovers and photographers too.”
Ms Gabriel said the Rutherglen Wine Bottle management committee (created in 2014) is proactive in working with other groups around the town.
“We now have a community choir with a group of 25 ladies who performed at our anniversary celebrations, and it was fabulous,” she said.
“They gave us $500 for a new door that needed replacing too.”
Ms Wiggins said the Rutherglen Wine Bottle is an old entity with a new personality, but still retains a strong community connection.
BUILDING ON HISTORY: Friends of the Rutherglen Wine Bottle member Nyree Wiggins (le ) and Rutherglen Wine Bottle’s committee of management secretary Cooper Gabriel at the historic Rutherglen Wine Bottle. PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
From rail to rural
Pat Giltrap
PAT Giltrap was born in Melbourne, moved to England with his parents and siblings until eight years old when the family returned to Australia living in the North East. He le the area a er nishing school and a er 27-odd years he returned to the North East ve years ago with his wife and young daughters to live in Stanley.
What do you do workwise?
I do a lot of work on the small farm we call home, but what I actually do for money? I work in the construction industry on major projects.
I’m the environment, approvals and sustainability manager for the $400 odd million Canberra Light Rail Project.
I point at things and write stu . What brought you to your role/ career?
I got a degree in geology.
I moved into construction because (a) I got a job and (b) it’s so holistic, varied and fast paced and I’m never bored.
What do you love about your work?
Many things.
I feel great about building sensible, sustainable public transport systems.
I love the breadth of the technical subject matter and solving technical issues.
What do you do in the community?
Vice-chair for the Stanley Landcare, secretary for the Stanley Collective and a member of the Indigo Environmental Advisory Committee (IEAC).
Plus I am also on the Mitta Mitta Caravan Park committee and the Mitta Mitta Camp dra committee.
Do I have the time to be a volunteer, probably not, and I’m pretty bad at it with my family, farm and work commitments.
Until I moved back to the country from the various cities I lived in, I had no appreciation for how much reliance small towns have on volunteers and committees.
Is there an important community issue that you think needs addressing?
A key issue is the fate of the Stanley public school.
The Stanley Collective currently has the lease for the school which we use to host the Stanley post o ce and the school as a site for community events, workshops and more.
Ensuring that the primary school stays an active and accessible site for the community either as a school or as an asset is of paramount importance for the Stanley community.
What would you do to solve change, improve that situation?
I don’t actually have a solution as yet, however the Stanley Collective is continuing to explore the legal,
nancial and social issues and opportunities associated with the school to maintain it as an asset for the community.
We welcome any input from the community.
What do you see as one of the important current world issues?
As a parent of young children, it’s a triple whammy of the ubiquity of screens, the use of these screens for (anti) social media and the reliability of information from these devices.
If the person you would most like to meet came to Indigo Shire (past or present), or was already here,
who would that be, what would you show them, and why?
Probably not the person I most want to meet, but I would invite Robert Coates – a patient at the former Mayday Hills Hospital who also designed the gardens to come for a stroll around the gardens so that he can see what a sterling job he did so many years ago.
What book are you reading?
Travelling a lot, I have a number of books on the go.
I am nishing o a re-read of ‘Catch 22’ by Joseph Heller with the intent of starting ‘The Overstory’ by Richard Powers imminently.
Friday, 6 June to Monday, 9 June
BEECHWORTH ARTS COUNCIL
Photographic exhibition. 10am to 4pm. ‘Beechworth Family Album - Portraits of Creative Beechworth’. The next chapter in the Beechworth Family Album - a photography project started in 1984 and produced every decade since then. Photographs include local artists, photographers, musicians and creative groups taken by local photographer Mark Bongers. Sub-Treasury building (next to the Old Court House), Ford Street.
Saturday, 7 June
SIX ARTISTS EXHIBITION IN CHILTERN
Official opening. 3pm to 5pm.
The exhibition with the wide variety of artistic creations stretches from weaving to watercolour, abstracts and landscapes. Chiltern Court House, 58 Main Street. Exhibition runs from 6 to 9 June from 10am to 4pm.
BEECHWORTH FARMERS MARKET
8am to 12pm. Always held on the first Saturday of every month. A great variety of fresh, local produce. Craft and food stalls. Located at the Anglican Christ Church, corner of Ford and Church Streets.
QUERCUS BEECHWORTH
Repair café. 10am-12pm. A place to visit to repair items and learn a new skill. Volunteer repairers inspire and advise too. Or visit for a cuppa and chat - it’s a great place to meet new people. Oregon Hall, Quercus Beechworth, Corner of Ford and Church Street (opposite the Anglican Christ Church).
Saturday 7 June and Sunday 8 June
ROAM RUTHERGLEN WINERY WALKABOUT
Australia’s longest-running wine festival of more than 50 years reimagined with a fresh and fun twist. 17 wineries. Hop on and hop off bus. Ticketed event. Visit www. explorerutherglen.com.au/ roamrutherglen2025.
Sunday, 8 June
RUTHERGLEN COUNTRY FAIR: 9am to 3.30pm. One of Victoria’s largest and longestrunning regional markets. Part of the Roam Rutherglen Winery Walkabout weekend. Close to 300 stalls with a variety of homemade arts and crafts, clothing, tools, fresh produce, entertainment. hot food and drinks. Funds raised supports projects for the Rutherglen and district community. Main Street, Rutherglen.
Sunday, 15 June
YACKANDANDAH LIONS CLUB MARKET
9:00am-1:00pm. Produce and products ranging from olives, hand-crafted soaps and candles, wines, plants, clothing, jewellery and more. Wellsford Street.
UP FOR THE RIDE: Pat Giltrap enjoys his work on major construction projects across the country while living in Stanley. Photo taken with his daughter Charlie.
COMMUNITY FOCUSED: Stanley’s Pat Giltrap enjoys contributing to his community and is Stanley Landcare’s vicepresident and secretary for the Stanly Collective. Photo taken with his wife Kylie.
Beechworth creatives captured in new exhibition
A COLLECTION of recent portraits capturing Beechworth artists and cra speople, taken by local photographer Marc Bongers, are the latest instalment in the Beechworth Family Album, a long-term project undertaken by the Beechworth Arts Council.
Each decade since it rst began in 1984, a di erent photographer has been engaged to capture images of Beechworth creatives of the time.
The 2025 portraits taken by Marc Bongers will now be revealed as part of the Beechworth Family Album - Portraits of Creatives Beechworth exhibition, being held in the Sub Treasury in Beechworth.
The pivotal event also celebrates Beechworth
Arts Council’s h decade as the leading community arts organisation in Beechworth.
A series of ve panels will be shown during the exhibition, telling the story of the Beechworth Family Album and its creative contribution to the cultural life of Beechworth.
The panels include a focus on the photographer for each chapter, and a visual history of the Beechworth Family Album projects in 1984, 1994, 2004, 2014 and now 2025, capturing local artists, photographers, musicians and groups.
The exhibition be open to the public on the June long weekend, 10am to 4pm from Friday, 6 June to Monday, 9 June, with all welcome and entry free.
Man caught at .221 slumped behind the wheel in carpark
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
A MAN who was found passed out in a car at Yackandandah on Monday was allegedly more than four times the legal limit.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said Yackandandah Police were alerted by concerned community members to a vehicle driving erratically and later found at a local carpark around 4:45pm.
A welfare check found the 67-year-old man passed out in his car.
He was taken to Wodonga Police Station by officers where he blew a .221 alcohol reading, resulting in the immediate suspension of his licence and his car was impounded.
Big draw at Men’s Shed decides winner of cubby house
By CORAL COOKSLEY
BEECHWORTH Men’s Shed member Allan Mansfield delved deep into the barrel to draw winning tickets including a huge cubby house as first prize at the close of a fundraising raffle on Wednesday.
A West Wodonga resident won the cubby house valued at $2100 built by Mr Mansfield.
Other winners for second, third and fourth prizes hail from Beechworth.
More to the story with winners and funds raised in next week’s Advertiser.
IN TUNE: A portrait of Beechworth cartoonist and musician Adrian Osborne with his double bass, is among the captivating images featured in the Beechworth Family Album - Portraits of Creative Beechworth exhibition. PHOTO: Marc Bongers
THE DISCOVER YOUR COUNTRY SIDE BIT
Head for the hills and discover Victoria’s regional events.
Try your hands (and feet) at various things you’ve never done before. You could find yourself cider quaffing, tulip sniffing, grape stomping, maybe even fun running.
Indigo creative projects receive funding boost
CREATIVE projects and presentations within Beechworth and surrounds has received a total $11,500 boost of state government funding to help present more local showcases in local venues.
State government minister for creative industries Colin Brooks announced last week the latest round of recipients of the small regional presenters program which provides grants to community groups, notfor-pro t organisations to assist with the costs of programming and presenting creative shows in the area.
Among the 14 recipients of funding, Indigo Shire Council received $7450 to
◀
present a series of four creative programs in collaboration with local primary schools featuring the performances and workshops.
The Winterwords Autonomous Collective received $4160 to help present Geraldine Quinn’s show The Passion of Saint Nicholas and her workshop ‘Adapting a True Story’ as part of the Winterwords 2025 Festival.
Mr Brooks said the funding program adds to regional Victoria’s creative calendar.
“We’re proud to support programs like this which ensure that all Victorians can experience the bene ts of our creative scene no matter where they live,” he said.
WORDED UP: The Winterwords Autonomous Collective received a $4160 grant to help present Geraldine Quinn’s show The Passion of Saint Nicholas and her workshop at the 2025 Winterwords Festival. Pictured at last year’s opening at the town hall was poet Rose Lilley (le ), local crime author Margaret Hickey, actor and writer Stephen Hall, crime writer Shelley Burr and writer David Crawford. PHOTO: Coral
Local childhood asthma cluster putting a strain on health resources: study
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
A STUDY has shown childhood asthma across the Indigo Shire and parts of the North East was almost twice as more prevalent than the national average
The University of New South Wales study identi ed the Hume region and surrounding areas as a childhood asthma cluster which was placing increased demand on local healthcare systems and increased costs for local families.
An asthma cluster is a group of neighbouring areas where the proportion of children up to 14 years of age with asthma, called childhood asthma prevalence, is higher than the national average of 6.3 per cent reported in the Census 2021.
High asthma clusters identi ed in the Hume region include Chiltern - Indigo Valley (10.48pc), Wan-
garatta (10.21pc), Rutherglen (10.19pc) and West Wodonga (9.09pc).
Bright and Mount Beauty (7.02pc), Yackandandah (7.90pc) and Myrtleford (6.83pc) also show a higher asthma prevalence in children than the national average.
Asthma Australia has urged all political parties to prioritise the health of children in the Hume area by supporting their Healthy Futures for Kids with Asthma program, which aims to reduce hospital admissions for children with asthma and improve their quality of life.
Chief executive o cer Kate Miranda said managing a child’s asthma can be a huge nancial strain on families, with the cost of doctor visits, medicines, and time o work adding up.
“Our program is designed to meet this need - helping families manage asthma more effectively and keeping kids out
of hospital,” she said.
According to Australian Institute for Health and Welfare studies, asthma was the most common chronic respiratory condition a ecting children in Australia and the costliest respiratory disease for primary healthcare, with costs rising 50 per cent from 2018-19 to 2022-23.
Ms Miranda said the solution to managing the local cluster was keeping children out of healthcare and promoting better awareness and educated around asthma to a ected parents and teachers.
“We want to work with children in the areas where they spend most of their time, so in the home and the community,” she said.
“We need people to better understand what their triggers are and with children they just need a bit more support because they don’t always recognise it.
“In these places where the
rates are higher a teacher might have three children in a classroom with asthma, but they’ll be triggered by di erent things.
“It’s about them understanding that and being able to support the child.”
Ms Miranda said a complex interplay of environmental, genetic and social factors played a part in high asthma prevalence in the region, with the surrounding environment the most in uential.
“The air quality of the area,
allergens and housing conditions are the most prominent contributors to these geographical variations,” she said.
“In regional areas we know the access to GPs and wait times are longer and there’s all of these other socio-economic factors as well.”
Asthma Australia has reached out to Members of Parliament representing these areas, highlighting the need for targeted support and intervention.
“We’re targeting these ar-
eas, and we want parents who need more support to call our asthma educators, have a free consultation and be able to talk about the personalised circumstances speci c to their child and their home,” Ms Miranda said.
“We’ve got a free onehour rst aid course, but we don’t have the resources to promote that speci cally in Wangaratta and those surrounding areas, we have to let people to discover it.
“It’s just really practical, simple solutions.”
Cooksley
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 What is an elementary particle present in every atomic nucleus (6)
8 Which item of clothing is worn in cold weather (8)
9 What are dirigibles also called (6)
10 What do we call a visionary person (8)
11 Name another term for a fiddle (6)
12 What is a present known as (4)
13 Name a renowned Australian novelist, etc, Patrick ... (5)
16 When one takes notice, one does what (5)
19 Name a crazed, earlier Roman emperor (4)
21 Who is known as the Great White Shark, Greg ... (6)
22 Name a chequered board game (8)
23 To have in mind, is to do what (6)
24 To be treated with nitric acid, is to be what (8)
25 What is a demand for a repetition of a song, etc (6)
DOWN
2 Name a favourite of Queen Elizabeth I, Sir Walter ... (7)
3 What is a pattern, mould, or the like (7)
4 To be nuzzling, is to be doing what (6)
5 What is an alternative term for width (7)
6 Which term describes leaves in general (7)
7 What are representations carved in stone or wood (7)
13 Which soft material is used for stuffing, packing, etc (7)
E-QUATIONS
14 What are young children called (7)
15 What are puzzling things (7)
Letters have a number value
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
17 To be eccentric, is to be what (7)
18 A plumber is also called a what (7)
20 To be in agreement, is to be what (6)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
1 INTRACTABLE
(a) Undaunted (b) Genuine (c) Obstinate
2 JURATORY
(a) Pertaining to an oath (b) Learned in law (c) Pertaining to natural or positive right
BIYWORD
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
Allow (3)
Check cost (5)
Darlings (coll) (7)
Dead animal (7)
Early old english (3)
Expel (5)
Horse command: ...-up (3)
Momentous (5)
Strongly aggressive girl (coll) (5)
Vacant space (3)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
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Man avoids conviction for assault on Wangaratta teen
A BEECHWORTH man took matters into his own hands when he was told police needed time to investigate inappropriate behaviour claims towards his daughter, a court had heard.
The 41-year-old appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court pleading guilty to assaulting a 19-year-old Wangaratta man.
The court heard the 41-year-old visited the teen’s home during the night of 17 September last year and asked the 19-year-old to have a chat in their driveway.
“Do you know who I am?” he said to the Wangaratta teen, before punching him in the face
after a short confrontation.
The 19-year-old su ered a bloodied nose and a so tissue injury, and went to hospital.
The man would attend Beechworth Police Station on 7 October where he was charged.
Defence counsel Geo Clancy said the 41-year-old’s daughter had
been subject to “inappropriate behaviour” from the victim earlier in the day of the incident.
While it was reported to police, the Beechworth man was told there was little o cers could do while they began an investigation into their claims, so Mr Clancy said his client took matters into his own hands.
Country Fair and Rutherglen Roam to draw huge crowds
By CORAL COOKSLEY
RUTHERGLEN Rotary’s biggest fundraiser on the calendar – the County Fair on Sunday – is one of Victoria’s longest running and largest regional markets.
Club president Frank O’Loughlin said the outstanding free event from 9am to 3.30pm is expected to draw 5000 to 8000 visitors.
“Since we took over the event in excess of $400,000 has been raised and distributed to the community for projects,” he said. He said this year Winemakers
of Rutherglen and Destination Rutherglen have supported the Rotary Club in helping to organise the fair.
Financial assistance has been received from Winemakers of Rutherglen while Destination Rutherglen has helped with logistics.
“We have close to 300 stall holders this year,” he said.
Stalls are set to have a huge selection of local arts and cra s, clothing, tools, fresh produce, and a huge variety of other goodies.
“We also have support from tra c controllers who live in lo-
cally and the Nolan group has handled stall holder bookings,” Mr O’Loughlin said.
Mr O’Loughlin said the Rotary Club manages the event, setting it up as well as dismantling.
“In sharing Main Street, we have had good conversations with traders in the town who have been supportive and positive about the event,” he said.
The president said country fairgoers travel from near and far for the fun day.
The bustling market with entertainment a vibrant atmosphere is part of the Roam Rutherglen Win-
ery Walkabout over the June long weekend.
The longest standing wine festival in the country will have 17 of Rutherglen region’s cellar doors open to host wine lovers.
The program has premium tastings, live entertainment and unique sensory cellar door experiences.
Festival shuttles with more than 40 seats running have hop on and hop o experiences.
For more information about the ticketed Roam Rutherglen event visit www.explorerutherglen. com.au/roamrutherglen2025.
“The moment got the better of him,” he said.
Magistrate Victoria Campbell placed the 41-year-old on a 12-month good behaviour bond without conviction.
“We would all do anything to protect our children but it’s just not acceptable to assault a child,” she said.
$250,000 funding secured to switch on Barnawartha
THE Barnawartha Recreation Reserve will soon bene t from a major lighting upgrade with new energy-e cient LED oodlights to improve safety, access and participation in local sport and recreation.
The project has received $250,000 in funding through the 2024-25 Country Football and Netball Program, with additional contributions from Indigo Shire Council and the Barnawartha Football Netball Club (BFNC) for the $350,000 project.
The Barnawartha Oval Lighting Upgrade was identi ed as a priority action in the Active Indigo Strategy 2018-2026 and is a key project supporting community recreation in Barnawartha.
Since adoption of the strategy, council has worked closely with the BFNC, Barnawartha Recreation Reserve Committee of Management and other key user groups to support participation in local sport.
The new lighting system will provide 100 lux illumination which will enable the Football Netball Club to host twilight matches and increased programming opportunities at the reserve.
The project is currently in the feasibility and concept design phase with detailed planning underway.
Site works are expected to follow once design and approvals are nalised.
SHOWCASE: Wine lovers will enjoy sipping varietals at this weekend Rutherglen Winery Walkabout.
PHOTO: Winemakers of Rutherglen
UP: The Barnawartha Recreation Reserve is set to be boosted by a major lighting upgrade.
Ovens Murray communities highlight social issues in the region
LAST week’s launch of the Ovens Murray Area Community Needs Assessment Report 2024 marked more than the release of a document - it signalled a turning point in how the region understands and responds to complex social issues across North East Victoria.
Supported by the Victorian Government, this report was commissioned by the Ovens Murray Child & Family Services Alliance (OMCFSA) and the Ovens Murray Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Alliance (OMMHADA), in collaboration with the Ovens Murray Family Violence Partnership (OMFVP) and the Ovens Murray Homelessness Network (OMHN).
It provides the rst comprehensive, locally grounded snapshot of the social challenges impacting children, young people and families in the region.
Developed by La Trobe University’s Care Economy Research Institute, the research combines local data, frontline service insight, and community experience to explore four interconnected
areas of need: mental health, family violence, alcohol and other drug use, and homelessness.
Jacki Eckert, chief strategy o cer at Gateway Health and deputy chair of the OMMHADA, opened the launch by recognising the foundation of partnership.
“This report was built on collaboration,” she said.
“It’s not just a piece of research; it represents an opportunity for shared response.
“We can’t keep doing things the same way.
“The complexity of these issues requires us to think di erently, work together, and genuinely listen to what the data and our community are telling us.”
Claire Anderson, transitional services manager of NESAY and chair of the Ovens Murray Homelessness Network, spoke about the opportunity this provides for collective action.
“We came together because we needed a shared foundation to move forward,” she said.
“Now we have it.
“This report helps us shi from individual responses to collective impact.
“We’re better placed than ever to plan, advocate and act with clarity and purpose.”
Kath Kerin, executive director of child, family and community services at Upper Murray Family Care and executive chair of the OMCFSA, highlighted the strength of local partnerships.
“This work is the result of a genuine commitment to
collaboration across sectors,” she said.
“We’ve built strong relationships, aligned our practice, and focused on how to better support children, young people and families across Ovens Murray.
“This report gives us a shared foundation to move forward - together.”
Jaime Chubb, chief executive o cer (CEO) of the Centre Against Violence and chair of the OMFVP, emphasised the
report’s practical value.
“This data is clear, local and needs-based - it’s helping us move from anecdote to evidence,” she said.
“We can now tailor our services and programs based on what our communities are telling us they need - especially around areas like mental health for young women.
“This is how we start doing better; together.”
Key ndings include:
Benalla shows the high-
est rates of family violence and alcohol-related incidents, alongside entrenched socio-economic disadvantage.
Wangaratta is experiencing a sharp rise in ambulance attendances related to alcohol and worsening mental health concerns - especially among young women.
Wodonga reports the region’s highest rate of homelessness, with rapid population growth placing further pressure on already stretched services.
Wodonga also reported notably higher rates of mental health issues, particularly among young women.
Despite the challenges, the report also highlights local strengths: deep inter-agency collaboration, a commitment to evidence-based action, and a shared will to improve outcomes across the region.
The full report is now available online.
Read the full report here: https://centreagainstviolence.org.au/wp-content/ uploads/2025/05/Oven-Murray-Area-Community-NeedsAssessment-2024-Report.pdf
Standover man jailed two years
The court heard Ahmad Al Essawi, 23, was oblivious to the terror he instilled in local victims
A STANDOVER man who attempted to extort Wangaratta and Wodonga tobacco stores which were later rebombed was sentenced to two years behind bars.
Ahmad Al Essawi, 23, sat straight-faced in a green tracksuit from a Port Phillip Prison link at Wodonga Magistrates’ Court last Wednesday, 28 May, as he learned he would be in custody for at least the next 18 months.
The court heard the Doreen man pleaded guilty of two frightening extortion attempts with threats to destroy property at Wodonga Gi s, and Ramseen Gi s, Wangaratta on 4 July, 2023, acting on behalf of an underworld criminal syndicate in the state’s war for control of the tobacco trade. He rst arrived at Wodonga with an unknown co-o end-
er between 3pm and 3:38pm, telling a female employee they had 24 hours to shut the shop and hand him the keys, or it would be burnt down.
“We’re the Iraqis from Melbourne… we’re coming to take over the shop,” Al Essawi said.
The middle-eastern man, with an imposing 6’4’ build, sporting a black pu er jacket and tracksuit pants continued to make threatening demands for around two minutes.
“You’re frightening the s*** out of me so just go away,” the female employee said.
At around 4:27pm the same day, the two men arrived at the rear entrance of Ramseen Gi s on Murphy Street, Wangaratta to confront another female employee at the door.
“I’m a reasonable man, but my bosses are unreasonable,” Al Essawi said.
“I’m sorry but your bosses have f***ed around with my people, and my people are not to be f***ed with.
“If you are not out by the next 24 hours, there’s going to be big, big headaches for this shop.
“My job is to send a message, that’s it.”
The frightened store worker then told the 23-year-old she lived at the premises.
“I can’t help you with that, you’ll have to sort it out with the bosses,” Al Essawi said.
Both incidents were lmed by the unknown associate, described by one of the victims as African, young and around 5’2’ tall.
The videos were distributed in a WhatsApp messenger group, believed to contain members of the criminal syn-
dicate they were serving. Both videos were obtained by police and played at court.
In the early hours of 27 July, both Wodonga Gi s and Ramseen Gi s were extensively damaged by re. Al Essawi was not accused of being involved in the arsons.
The same woman who was threatened by Al Essawi at Wangaratta was rescued by CFA after the Murphy Street store was gutted by the blaze.
A victim impact statement submitted to the court heard of the intense trauma the woman had experienced since the incident, saying it “stolen my life”.
“I have experienced significant trauma throughout my life which I had overcome, but it has come back 10-fold,” the statement read.
Al Essawi has been in custody since he was arrested and charged by police at his home on 23 January this year.
Defence counsel Natasha Freijah pleaded for leniency for her client and said the 23-year-old had undergone rehabilitation programs in the nearly two years since the incident occurred.
Ms Freijah said Al Essawi was set to be transferred to a lower security prison due to his good behaviour, but he had not helped in assisting police with their investigation.
Prosecutor Anthony Albore said the Doreen man’s role within the major criminal syndicate could not be understated, and his o ending was of grave concern for the community.
Magistrate Ian Watkins said Al Essawi’s o ending was cold, calculated and
showed a complete disregard for the welfare of the people who stood in his way.
“You behaved in an evil and terrifying manner, oblivious to the impact you had on the female employees,” he said.
“You used your physical stature and manner to terrify two victims who were just going about their business.”
In his sentencing, Magistrate Watkins noted the court needed to set a strong standard for people who behave in such manner, setting a nonparole period of 18 months. Al Essawi was also ned an accumulative $1150 for other driving, the of identi cation cards and drug possession charges.
He was also sentenced for imprisonment for possession of an imitation ‘Desert Eagle’ pistol.
Brendan Breen 0427
JOINT SUPPORT: Claire Anderson, Jaime Chubb and Kath Kerin spoke at the Ovens Murray Area Community Needs Assessment Report 2024 launch last week. PHOTO: Kelly Timms
Police issue warning to snow travellers this winter
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
POLICE will be taking a zero-tolerance approach to unprepared drivers trekking to the snow this season a er nearly 1500 drivers were turned back at Mount Hotham alone last year
While police have observed a growing number of people travelling to the snow for single-day trips, the force have seen many arriving without understanding the road rules, weather risks or equipment requirements for alpine travel.
All vehicles entering alpine areas during the declared snow season are required by law to carry wheel chains and t them when instructed.
Failing to carry chains may result in a $395 ne, while failing to t them when required may attract a $988 penalty.
during the season.
O cers responded to 16 incidents during last year’s snow season, including the rescue of a stranded solo hiker on Mount Feathertop, who was forced to camp out overnight in freezing conditions while emergency services arrived.
WATCHING ON: Police will be monitoring key alpine roads this snow season to ensure motorists comply with regulations, including carrying wheel chains.
In the last snow season, police turned around 1471 drivers at Mount Hotham alone for not carrying wheel chains.
Superintendent Joy Arbuthnot said wheel chains were essential for navigating steep, icy roads and the failure to use them appropriately puts all road users at risk.
“We’ve seen cars slide o the edge of mountainsides, families stranded in dangerous conditions, and collisions that could have been avoided,” she said.
“Visiting the snow is a
popular tradition for many, and an exciting trip for tourists, but it’s important to remember it can quickly turn into a very serious situation if you’re not prepared.
“Your safety, and the safety of everyone else on the mountain, starts before you even leave home… don’t put lives at risk.”
Police and authorised ofcers will be conducting checks across key routes
into alpine resorts including Mount Buller, Mount Hotham, Falls Creek, Mount Baw Baw, Lake Mountain and Mount Stirling.
Police will also maintain a visible presence across the snowfields with local police, highway patrol, the Heavy Vehicle Unit, Liquor Control Victoria officers and dedicated alpine police conducting proactive patrols and enforcement
Police also responded to a serious head-on collision on Mount Buller Road involving multiple vehicles, where a number of people received injuries, including four children.
One of the drivers was allegedly travelling on the wrong side of the road.
In another incident, a family travelling from Gippsland to Mount Hotham were directed by their GPS system onto the seasonally closed Dargo High Plains Road, where they were stranded in deep snow.
There was also several impaired drivers detected across the snow elds last season.
Those planning a snow
Community quick to charge up on incoming household battery subsidy
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
THE North East community are snapping up the chance to access a one-time rebate for home batteries, according to a local provider.
The federal government announced the Cheaper Home Batteries Program during the election campaign, seeking to transform how households bene t from their roo op solar and substantially reduce their annual energy bills.
The $2.3 billion plan o ers a 30 per cent discount on the cost of a new battery for households, businesses and community facilities such as sports centres or town halls.
The federal government plan to roll out their Cheaper Home Batteries Program from 1 July.
But, there’s no need to wait until the subsidy kicks in, with batteries able to be purchased and installed and still be eligible for the discount when the new nancial year kicks in.
Solargain Wangaratta sales and marketing manager, Blake Smith, said since the election pledge was made in early April, North East homes have been eager to cash in on the batteries.
“From that Monday onwards we’ve just seen it go ‘bang’, which is crazy,” he said.
“Everybody wanted these batteries and I think one of the main objections to them was the price.
“To have these rebates in there, it’s great to bring those prices down.”
Mr Smith said home battery attachment rates had been grow-
SET TO CHARGE: BLAKE SMITH FROM SOLARGAIN WANGARATTA SAID THERE HAS BEEN A BIG SURGE IN LOCAL HOME BATTERY ATTACHMENT RATES SINCE THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF THEIR SUBSIDY PROGRAM. PHOTO: KURT HICKLING
ing year-on year in the past 24 months in the region and the discount incentive was a “gamechanger”.
“It makes it more a ordable to store their own solar power, reduce their evening and peak power bills and stay powered during grid outages,” he said.
Eligible home batteries for the rebate range up to 50kwh in size.
Mr Smith said a popular option for locals was the 13.5kwh battery, which would attract a discount of around $5000 using the government’s scheme.
“It’s more a ordable than it has ever been,” he said.
Mr Smith said the surge in battery buys for the rebate was also aided by a timely drop in the excess solar tari , set to go down to 0.04 cents on the same day as the eligible rebate period begins.
“The timing of this battery to
store that power rather than sell it for nothing is great,” he said.
Independent MP for Indi, Helen Haines, said she was thrilled when the policy was announced, advocating for a home battery subsidy in parliament for two years.
“Home batteries will deliver immediate bill relief for households and community groups, and over time we will see this bene t extend to all consumers by reducing overall pressure on the grid,” she said.
Mr Smith said 30 per cent of homes have roo op solar in Australia and the North East was a high uptake area for installation.
A spokeswoman for the federal Minister for Energy, Chris Bowen, said the home battery policy re ected 12 months of input from a broad range of stakeholders and advocates, including Dr Haines.
“It will bene t households right across the country, including in the electorate of Indi,” she said.
You can make enquiries and install the batteries before the rebate kicks in, but homeowners must wait until 1 July to switch them on.
Mr Smith said people who already have a battery can still access the rebate if they add or upgrade their battery system.
The rebate is a one-time perhousehold subsidy and will drop year-on-year by 20 per cent until 2030.
“My advice is we’re encouraging people to be mindful that it is one shot so don’t blow it on something just because it’s cheap, do your research and really be thorough with your investigations into what battery is right for you,” Mr Smith said.
trip, particularly day-trippers, are urged to familiarise themselves with alpine road rules and conditions, and ensure they have a backup plan in place should the weather change or access be restricted.
Other key safety tips for those heading to the snow include:
Ensure your car’s radiator is lled with anti-freeze and if diesel use Alpine Mix
Drive cautiously with gradual pressure on the accelerator to avoid wheel spin
Brake gently and avoid unnecessary gear changes
Maintain a safe braking distance from vehicles in front, especially in poor visibility
Let someone know where you are going and how long you will be Regularly check weather and snow conditions as conditions can change quickly
If lost – stop, seek shelter, call Triple Zero (000) and wait.
A weekend of food and wine fit for a king
EIGHT wineries of the King Valley are welcoming the return of the Wines Of the King Valley Weekend Fit For a King food and wine festival this coming King’s Birthday weekend.
Celebrate in style with friends and family as you travel your way through the picturesque King Valley feasting on mouthwatering dishes, tasting new release wines and dancing the afternoon away.
“Our events are known far and wide for the food we serve, not just our wines,” Sophie Darling, from Darling Estate, said.
“It is also a great opportunity to stop at a winery you haven’t experienced before and try new wines as you travel the Valley and get a better understanding of the number of varieties we are producing and how different they taste from one end of the valley to the other.”
Visitors to the festival are able to buy their tickets online via the Wines of the King Valley website, or buy them at the gate.
“The ticket includes entry, your wine glass and entertainment at each of the eight participating wineries,” president of the Wines of the King Valley, Dean Cleave-Smith, said.
“This includes Brown Brothers, John Gehrig Wines, La Cantina, Darling Estate, Dal Zotto, King River Estate, Pizzini and Politini.”
“Events at some of the wineries stretch the whole weekend including Friday evening at Dal Zotto, which is included in your festival ticket and an Ocean to Graden Dinner at Brown Brothers, tickets are additional and can be purchased through their website.
“And for those keen to spend time on the dancefloor, each of the venues have you covered.”
The welcome return of the regional event sees festival tickets providing entry into all the participating wineries activities from Friday, 6 June to Sunday, 8 June.
Travel between the participating wineries that showcase the beauty and diversity of the King Valley.
Tickets are $40 and can be purchased online https://www.winesofthekingvalley. com.au
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KNEEBONE (Ferguson), Lorraine Margaret. 15/8/1931 – 18/5/2025 Aged 93 years. Formerly of Beechworth. Passed away peacefully at Westmont Aged Care Baranduda a er a short illness. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Colin and Dianne, Glenda, Noel and Ruth, Christine and Ken. Cherished Nan of eight grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. At Lorraine’s request a private graveside service was conducted at the Bowmans Cemetery on June 2, 2025. Forever in our hearts. Mason Park Funerals 5721 5060 masonpark.com.au
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Boosting new healthy activities
By CORAL COOKSLEY
A DONATION of $500 to the Beechworth Health Service (BHS) by a local exercise group is set to help age care residents with new activities.
Beechworth Exercise and Activity’s (BEAT) president Helen Kenny presented the cheque to BHS chief executive Sharon Walsh and cinical service director Elizabeth Ibrom on Wednesday, 24 May at the Senior Citizens Centre. The funds given have been given towards the purchase of sporting equipment and
games for use in its soon-to be new communal activity centre as well as outdoor garden spaces.
Grateful for the donation, Ms Walsh said the health service had canvassed residents for what they would like.
“They’re keen to have more equipment like indoor croquet, some modi ed table tennis and other activities,” she said.
She said activities will be undertaken in the auditorium once the new building is completed as well as in existing residential aged care
facility spaces.
“BEAT will be happy to bring in some trainers for us as well do activities with them in the future,” she said.
An excited Ms Walsh said this is integrating with community.
“We don’t want to reinvent the wheel, and BEAT already provides their service to an older population as well,” she said.
Ms Ibrom said activity ofcers and physiotherapist have compiled a list with a variety of activity-based items such as pop-up basket
END MND FUNDRASIER A BIG SUCCESS
ball, a oater ball and foxtail ball set and geometric block sorter to bene t dementia clients.
Other items for health service’s clients include indoor croquet sets, indoor bowls, hooky sets, bean bag toss and ying disc golf.
Ms Kenny said BEAT makes regular donations to the community to assist various projects.
“This project is very worthwhile and a bene cial program for all Beechworth Health Service clients,” she said.
Beechworthians atop of Rutherglen tournament
By DYLAN POOL
LAST Wednesday the third round of the Women’s Club Championships was played.
A good eld of 11 players contested the day.
Clearly a er last week’s rain the going was a bit tougher with a bit less run and quicker greens.
The winner of the day was Glenda Marshall (15) 75.
Runner up was Deb Tully (24) 77 on a countback from Judy Pierce (26) 77 and Jacqui Cato (26) 77.
Nearest the pins went to Glenda Marshall on the 10th
and Jacqui Cato on the 17th.
A er the third round of the championships are as follows.
Taking the best two scores.
A grade
Hollie Goodwin 169. (87,82)
Gail Smith 173. (86,87)
Glenda Marshall 182. (92,90)
B grade
Jacqui Cato 197. (94,103)
Judy Pierce 207. (103,104)
Ellie Hirst 221. (110,111) Handicap
Gail Smith (17) 139. (69,70)
Jacqui Cato (26) 143. (67,76)
Hollie Goodwin (13) 143. (74,69)
On Sunday there was a handful of golfers front up at Beechworth for a stableford event.
Dean Howard (14) was the winner with 35 points, runner up was son Jacob Howard (9) 34.
Next best were Phil Pelgrim (17) 33 and Jamie Dolny (13) 30.
Nearest the pin on the 5th went to Jacob Howard.
Also on Sunday four of our members travelled over to Rutherglen for their tournament.
Dylan Pool made it two tournament wins in a row.
Taking out the title with an even par round of 65, to win by one shot from fellow Beechworthian Vaughan Saunders.
Dylan along with Rod Shaw took home a nearest the pin each.
This coming Sunday will be a Stableford event for the long weekend. The June Monthly Medal will be played the following Sunday, 15 June. This round will also double up as the top 8 qualifying for the George King Memorial handicap matchplay Championships.
HAPPY DAYS: Winners of the Rutherglen Golf Club annual tournament, including Beechworth’s Dylan Pool show o their prizes. Pictured are Jay Mase (sponsor, le ), Barry Mann B grade winner (Rutherglen), Leo McCoy C grade winner (Tarrawingee), Dylan Pool A grade winner (Beechworth)
SPEECHLESS: Local Floral Designs’ Gina Kromar (right) had an icy shower with a Mitta United PHOTOS: Claire Mitchell and Bob Darling
LOST FOR WORDS: Beechworth Fire Brigade’s Kirsty Sutherland does the deed on her brigade colleague Damian Jones while Beechworth netballer Rachael Cavallin looks on.
SPLASH ZONE: Beechworth Football Netball Club’s Gareth Pritchard
15.
END MND fundrasier a big chilly success
A SUCCESSFUL END MND fundraiser held at the Beechworth Football and Netball Club (BFNC) on Saturday raised more than $5700.
Beechworth Fire Brigade volunteer Damien Jones took part in the shivering icebucket challenge describing it as a “breathtaking” but enjoyable moment.
“When you have the ability to help a great cause, you do what you do,” he said.
“It’s great that the football and netball club gets behind the event.
“We’re lucky in Beechworth with a community spirit of wanting to help each other.”
BY CORAL COOKSLEY ccooksley@ nemedia.com.au
A delighted Georgia said with dollars raised at the weekend, more than $20,000 has been clocked up for the cause over three years.
golf buggy for the ice-bucket challenge.”
ber who lost his life from MND had done a lot for the club.
“We all want to see the end of this debilitating disease.
Drawn to the family fun day Beechworth’s Trish Shaw said she always enjoys being part of the community vibe for the fundraiser.
“It’s such a strong community spirit there,” she said.
“Everyone gets behind the cause and it’s a wonderful family-oriented day.
“Georgia O’Connor and her crew of happy workers do an amazing job.”
For the third year in a row BFNC has joined forces with End MND North East Victoria and Albury (End MND) for the much-loved ice-bucket challenge with Mitta United Football Netball Club taking part this year too.
“There was a lot of new faces from the community,” she said.
“It was a great community day for families and for people of all ages, and the day brought together many people from across the community.
“We’re all coming together for an important cause with ghting back an insidious disease with an event of joy, laughter and community connection.
“There were lots of laughs when Beechworth Golf Club’s Holly Goodwin arrived in a
Locals Ben Kraus cycled across the eld while plumber (and under 14s football coach) Gareth Pritchard arrived with a loo sat on until he changed to a seat for the icy challenge.
“People make an e ort in di erent ways they can contribute,” she said.
“We had someone make biscuits that sold out and raised $300.”
Georgia said many new volunteers joined the END MND to be part of the community group with its fundraising e orts.
BFNC president Emma Carey said the late Brendan Halliday, a past BFNC mem-
“It’s such a worthy cause supported by local businesses too,” she said.
“The event was a big success and everyone came to watch the games and hung around for the Big Freeze.”
Trish said supporting the cause is important in part due to the strong connection to the Halliday family. who sadly lost their wonderful husband and father to the insidious disease.
“The show of support from all the community is testament to the wonderful man Brendan was and the beautiful legacy he le in his family,” she said.
“The more we all get behind this cause and do our bit, the more hope we have of nding a cure.”
Georgia said from funds raised $3219.50 is going to Fight MND for research to nd a cure and $2542.50 is being given to the Motor Neurone Disease Association of Victoria to support those living with MND.
Georgia said it’s not too late to donate.
Tax deductible donations can be made to help nd a cure by visiting bit.ly/FightMNDBeechworth, or to support Victorians living with MND at bit.ly/MNDVicBeechworth.
(le ), Jaxon Gale, Jobe Warner and Poppy Voight brave the freeze at the club’s END MND ice bucket challenge.
More photos page
PHOTO: Claire Mitchell and Bob Darling