Ovens and Murray Advertiser 081223 by Provincial Press Group

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ADVERTISER, Friday, December 8, 2023 - Page 1

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BEECHWORTH - CHILTERN - RUTHERGLEN - STANLEY - YACKANDANDAH Friday, December 8, 2023

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‘Bush Magic’ takes stage Page 5

CREATIVE APPROACH: Beechworth Primary School youngsters Matilda and Harlow Maguire (left) and Kasper McArthur with Friends of the Burke Museum’s John Baines, teacher Kylie Love and educational support teacher Cheryl Norman (right) at the school’s presentation of a quilt bearing reference to the town’s history. Story page 7. PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

Crime watch THE purchase and installation of two portable CCTV cameras will be included in Indigo Shire Council’s next budget, in an effort to stymie the shire’s rising crime rate. At last week’s council meeting, Crs Croucher, Gaffney, Horne, Price and Teissl voted in support of a move to purchase two

BY RYAN MALCOLM

rmalcolm@ nemedia.com.au

cameras at a cost of no more than $5000 each, which will be deployed in consultation with Wodonga police command to address crime hotspots and deter rising rates of domestic

violence. Deputy Mayor Bernard Gaffney pointed to recent Crime Statistics Victoria data, which indicated an 18.9pc increase in reported crime across the shire in the last 12 months, despite the crime rate remaining well below the state average. He said regular

consultations with police through the shire’s local safety committee, as well as at a recent neighbourhood policing forum with senior area commanders had endorsed the need to act to more efficiently apprehend offenders. The increase has largely been driven by an increase in reported domestic

violence and breaches of intervention orders, according to Cr Gaffney. “We have a low crime rate and we want it to stay that way – police told us of the importance of CCTV in solving (domestic violence) offences and bringing those responsible to justice,” he said. ■ Continued page 3

Indigo Interview Page 9

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Australian identity program digs deep into local history By CORAL COOKSLEY FOR Beechworth’s Greg Clydesdale, a chance to hear locals deliver talks about their connections to the town over generations had been an interesting discovery at this year’s Ian Jones Memorial tribute around the Australian identity program run by Friends of the Burke Museum. A presentation for this year’s theme delivered in an afternoon session at the Beechworth Town Hall focused on the theme ‘Ancestry and Community - A Celebration of Family Heritage Through Time’. Among guest speakers were local historian Ian Hyndman, winemaker Stephen Morris from Pennyweight Wines, author Frank Prem, Heidi Freeman from Freeman on Ford and her sister Helen Freeman and Bridge Road Brewers’ Ben Kraus with musician and

guest speaker Sandra Williams at Beechworth’s Town Hall. Headline guest speaker Adam Zwar delivered an entertaining talk at an awards dinner later in the evening held at Hotel Nicholas. “The session was informative, educational and enjoyable,” Greg said. “Local musician Sandra Williams played Greensleeves on the historic organ and it was fantastic, and she talked about her family. “I really enjoyed how speakers who were descendants, are a living history and spoke about their ancestors and long connection through to today.” Greg said the talk fitted in with the Burke Museum’s work and exhibition ‘People of Beechworth’ that’s in the museum about people living in Beechworth. Friends of the Burke Museum president Dr Kate Sutherland said despite not

having a family connection to the area, Mr Hyndman delivered a fascinating presentation about early pastoralist Daniel Reed, Beechworth properties and the discovery of gold. She said 15 high-quality creative entries for the first-time award for young people aged between 16 to 30 years old had been on show in the town hall session. The president said the Albert and Barbara Tucker Foundation will be supporting Indigo Shire’s young people with an additional award for next year’s event. Award-winning Australian writer, producer, actor and voiceover artist Adam Zwar has a connection to the former Zwar Tannery and to Beechworth through his late father Desmond – who had been a wellknown journalist and returned to Beechworth to live in his later years.

CONNECTED: Guest speakers Ben Kraus (back left), Frank Prem, Ian Hyndman (front left), musician and presenter Sandra Williams with sisters Helen and Heidi Freeman and Stephen Morris at the Friend of the Burke Museum’s Australian Identity afternoon session. PHOTO: Kate Sutherland He said his father had a close friendship with the late Ian Jones too. He said the judges’ comments had recognised how wonderful entrants were with

Local photographers showcase their talents By CORAL COOKSLEY A PASSIONATE photographer with the drive to inspire others in taking up photography opened an exhibition last Friday at Mayday Hills Art Society premises. Fifteen photographers from Beechworth, Stanley, Yackandandah, Chiltern, Wodonga and Clifton Springs near Geelong drawn to the community photography exhibition are showcasing their artistic creations in a range of categories. Anticipate, believe in yourself and create had been three key messages delivered by exhibition curator Claire Mitchell at a Mayday Hills Art Society talk in August this year to more than 40 attendees.

their creative work but even encouraged them to be better. Speaking from his own experience in being inspired by artists in the Australian film and television

Council to purchase two CCTV cameras to address crime in shire ■ From front page

SUCCESS: Photographers John Purkis (left), Sacha Davey, Marcia Lac, Ella Briotti and Claire Mitchell at the last Friday night’s exhibition opening. Claire said she had been thrilled to see a huge variety of work. “I hope people will be inspired looking at other people’s photos,” she said. “Mayday Hills Art Society has provided a lovely venue for the exhibition which is open until the end of this

month,” she said. With the success of the inaugural event, planning is already underway for another exhibition to be held next year. Claire said people can submit five of their favourite photos taken over the next 11 months covering

Do you have a

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any subject. Photos will then be needed for mounting in November. For more information about the next exhibition or to see work on display at the Art Society contact Claire on mobile 0455 290 011.

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“The CCTVs would be portable and able to be moved where they’re needed the most right across the shire. “People shouldn’t only be safe, but they need to feel safe, and according to police, having these cameras will assist in this regard.” Cr Gaffney said senior officers from Rutherglen Police Station had spoken of how the cameras could be strategically placed to deter domestic violence offending, and noted Beechworth police had said CCTV cameras placed on the Beechworth-Wodonga Road would have assisted in identifying offenders linked to the recent alleged burglary of 20 storage sheds in the town. Cr Sue Gold was the only

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councillor to oppose the motion, questioning whether the cost should fall on the shoulders of ratepayers. “It sounds like cost-shifting – if this is a valuable asset to police, I would have thought police would have purchased the cameras themselves, and I’ve not had any advice in any way to suggest the police couldn’t do so,” she said. “I think it’s behoven on us to be really well informed where we choose to put our budget, and my biggest concern is that we are perhaps trying to solve a problem with a solution that is perhaps not fit for purpose.” Mayor Sophie Price noted it would be a big task for two cameras across the shire to catch offenders, but spoke in support of the purchase.

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Beechworth combined church Christmas events Friday, December 15 INTERACTIVE NATIVITY AND CAROLS: The Beechworth Combined Churches are holding a Christmas event for the town being held at the Anglican Christ Church in Beechworth from 4pm to 6pm. Nativity at 4.30pm. Carols at 5pm. Photo booth. Dress up as an angel, shepherd or wise man. This year’s Christmas Church events: Anglican, Christ Church 27 Ford Street: Sunday Sung Eucharist, Sundays @ 9.30am; Service of nine Lessons & Carols, Wed, Dec 20, 2023 @7.30pm; Family Christmas Eucharist, Sun, Dec 24, 2023 @ 9.30am; Early Midnight Mass, Sun, Dec 24,2023 @ 9pm; Sung Eucharist & Carols, Mon, Dec 25 2023 @ 9.30am; Enquiries: Father Matthew Healy on 0438 224 986 or vicar3747@gmail.com. Catholic Church, St Joseph’s 9 Church Street: Sunday Mass, Sundays @ 9am; Christmas Eve Mass, Sun, Dec 24, 2023 @ 5.30pm; Christmas Day Mass, Mon, Dec 25, 2023 @ 9am; See notice board at the Church. The Salvation Army, Beechworth Corps 35 Ford Street: Sunday Worship, Sundays @ 10.30am; Christmas Day Service, Mon, Dec 25 2023 @ 9.30am; Enquiries: Major Pauline Middleton on 03 5728 3245 or pauline.middleton@salvationarmy.org.au Uniting Church, St Andrew’s, Cnr Ford & Williams streets: Sunday Service, Sundays @ 10am; Christmas Day Service, Mon, Dec 25, 2023 @ 10am; Enquiries: 0417 745 105.

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Local recognised for support of exercise group By CORAL COOKSLEY LIFE membership to a local exercise club came as a big surprise for a Beechworthian last month. Beechworth Exercise Activity and Training Group Inc. (BEAT) member Helen Kenny received the special badge and certificate presented by then president Judy Smith at the group’s AGM held on November 8 at the Senior Citizens Centre. A thrilled Helen, who was also elected president on the night, said she appreciated receiving the membership. “I hope to continue being involved for many years to come,” she said. The BEAT member said she joined the group offering exercises and activities for older adults in 2008 to help her undertake regular exercise. “Most of what I was doing at the time was sedentary such as sitting to play music, teach and study,” she said. “At first I felt unsure about exercising in a group, but soon found it to be a welcoming bunch of people who were all wanting to retain their health and fitness.” Helen said the social aspect of having a chat over a coffee after the class also helped her feel part of the group.

In 2013 Helen joined the committee as well as helping with the exercises, under the watchful eye of her mentor, Lorna Green. “Lorna encouraged me to do some training and become an instructor,” she said. “At that time we held linedancing after exercise classes, and I became involved in helping run them with Lorna.” Helen said most of her study, which was undertaken online through the Australian Fitness Institute, provided videos for downloads and uploads for the practical part while she also joined the local gym. Receiving a Certificate III in Fitness in 2014, Helen keeps up with her registration as a professional trainer with the leading fitness provider by undertaking regular courses, expanding her knowledge and keeping up with any new developments. “During COVID restrictions we had to double the number of classes held and limit the numbers attending,” she said. “One of my ongoing tasks was taking bookings for classes each week which took quite a bit of time. “What pleases me greatly is when I meet people in the street who share how much BEAT has done in keeping them healthy and strong, or how much they have improved in doing rehab

PASSIONATE ABOUT EXERCISE: Thrilled BEAT member Helen Kenny received a life membership badge and certificate presented at the group’s AGM meeting in early November. PHOTO: Judy Smith. after an injury or after surgery. “This is what makes it all worthwhile.” Past president Judy Smith said Helen had been an enthusiastic and dedicated member of the over 55-year-

olds’ exercise group. “Helen stepped up to be a trainer when needed and has been an active executive committee member and knows the exercise benefits for older people,” she said.

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ADVERTISER, Friday, December 8, 2023 - Page 5

School play a fabulous success KOOKABURRAS on a quest to find their lost raucous laughs with the help of a platypus, kangaroo, a galah and a magpie were among cute characters taking centre stage in a Beechworth Primary School play ‘Bush Magic’ last month. The first school production in three years, which was held at the Beechworth Servicemen’s Memorial Hall, drew a full capacity audience of 400 family members, friends and staff over two nights on November 22 and 23. School parents Beechworth’s Rose Paton – a TV and radio producer, and Dr Lara Stevens – a researcher and lecturer in theatre at Melbourne University’s School of Culture – helped students write the play based on an idea sparked from ‘Possum Magic’ by Justin Kneebone in Year 5. Set in Beechworth and starting from a gum tree in the school grounds, the kookaburras used school values of ‘persistence, safety, caring and respect’ to help find their chuckling voices, visiting four local iconic places around Beechworth – Queen Victoria Park’s rock slide, Lake Sambell, Old Beechworth Gaol and the Gorge.

BY CORAL COOKSLEY ccooksley@ nemedia.com.au

Principal Sue McDonald said students from across the school took part with those from Years 3 to 6 performing on both nights. “Students from Foundation and 1SB performed their scene on Wednesday night while students from 1/2D and 1/2J performed their scenes on Thursday night where each class had a song to perform,” she said. Ms McDonald said Lara and Rose worked with students in two initial workshops to meet the students for production ideas. “They then worked with the students each week to create the script and practise in preparation for the production,” she said. Ms Paton said the play revolved around a problem, a journey and resolution using the school values. She said all students were engaged putting forward their ideas. “We Involved all the kids as much as possible with the music, chorus, choreography and those who wanted to say a line

FUN: Beechworth Primary School students showcased their talents at the school’s recent play ‘Bush Magic’. PHOTOS: Samantha Hemphill. could,” she said. “It was great to see them falling in love with drama and allowed them to shine and showcase their talents in another way. “We could not be prouder on how they stepped up to perform on the night.” Ms McDonald said it had been amazing to see students on stage with confidence and pride as they shared their performances. “The audience em-

braced the sense of fun of the production, with lots of laughs at the jokes and the various humorous characters,” she said. “It was fantastic to be supported by Rose and Lara to recreate that sense of community through the production.” The annual school production had been interrupted over the past three years by building works as well as prior COVID restrictions.

CONFIDENT: Beechworth Primary School students Olivia, Lily and Lauren had fun in the school’s recent play ‘Bush Magic’.

Page 6 - ADVERTISER, Friday, December 8, 2023

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ADVERTISER, Friday, December 8, 2023 - Page 7

Students stay connected to community By CORAL COOKSLEY A COLOURFUL creative handmade quilt presented to a Friends of the Burke Museum member by Beechworth Primary School’s before school care students reflected connection to their local history and community. The students had undertaken the project as part of a recent Ian Jones Memorial Australian Identity program offered for the first time to all primary schools throughout the shire, which allowed students to choose an activity to show what was important to them living in their community. Project manager for the overall program John Baines accepted the quilt on behalf of community organisation Friends of

CONNECTED: Beechworth Primary School’s before school care group with Friends of the Burke Museum’s John Baines, teacher Kylie Love and Educational support teacher Cheryl Norman at the school’s presentation. PHOTO: Coral Cooksley the Burke Museum at a school assembly late last month. The activity was titled

‘My family in the Community’ and wrapped around this year’s main event theme “Ancestry and Com-

munities: A Celebration of Family Heritage through Time.” Beechworth Primary School teacher Kylie Love said the school finds the Burke Museum a great resource. “For our school kids here to be able to link an activity back to the Burke Museum is just something really special,” she said. She said the kids loved going to the museum when taken to visit. Educational support teacher and supervisor Cheryl Norman said students picked up on different and interesting aspects they found important for their community connections. Patches included a street named after the family name of grandparents, a family tradition of feed-

ing ducks at Lake Sambell, a family being part of Chiltern Theatre group ‘The Clappers to bike riding at Beechworth’s Mountain Bike Park. Louis Armstrong’s famed song ‘What a Wonderful World’ accompanied a slide presentation showcasing quilt panels. A humbled Mr Baines said seeing the children’s and supervisor’s enthusiasm showcased the basic principle that museums engage with their citizens to build resilience based on promoting an awareness of ‘who we are and where we have come from’ identified in the Spiers Report to Indigo Shire Council in 2009. Another three primary schools - Chiltern’s St Josephs, Wooragee and Chiltern Primary School

had joined the Friends of the Burke Museum program with various activities undertaken. Bendigo Bank supported each participating school with $200 to help with their projects. Mr Baines said Friends of the Burke Museum thanked the primary schools for taking up the educational opportunity, and expressed his thanks for the financial support from the Bendigo Community Bank. The Australian Identity program also builds on a previous project started by former Burke Museum manager Cameron Auty by working with history collections around the shire. Friends of the Burke Museum supports the museum’s work preserving and recording local history.

Local history buff advocates for dedicated gallery By CORAL COOKSLEY A FORMER Ovens and Murray Advertiser senior journalist and editor with a deep interest in Beechworth’s history has advocated for creative people who shaped Australia’s post-colonial cultural identity to be celebrated with the development of a dedicated gallery. Jamie Kronborg delivered a fascinating talk on different aspects of Beechworth’s history which drew an audience of around 30 people at the Anglican Christ Church as part of the recent Beechworth Heritage Festival events. With the discovery of gold in 1852 and the rush on Spring Creek, the place subsequently named Beechworth quickly became the centre of the Ovens Goldfield and colonial government administration for Victoria’s North East. As the town developed and became a centre of government, Jamie said Beechworth attracted, or became home to, scientists, artists, writers, bushrangers,

explorers, teachers, lawyers and administrators. “Their works influenced Australia’s development in the post-European settlement colonial and federal periods,” he said. “Among them were scientists like Georg von Neumayer, artists Eugen von Guerard and Nicholas Chevalier, storekeeper Daniel Cameron and Dr John Owens who championed the miners’ right to vote.” Jamie said others included extraordinary lawyers John James Beresford Bowman who challenged ‘terra nullius,’ Frederick Brown (elected to the first Beechworth Municipal Council in 1856) and Isaac Isaacs, who became High Court chief justice and Australia’s first governor-general of Jewish faith. Among others cited were colonial-era female writer and poet Ada Cambridge, and celebrated painter Hilda Rix. He said government botanist Ferdinand von Mueller contributed to identifying, naming and recording Australian alpine and other flora with important books given

ENJOYED: Beechworth locals Gerri Boland (left), presenter Jamie Kronborg, Jean Henderson, Peter Kenyon, Greg Clydesdale and artist Terry Batt at the fascinating talk about Beechworth’s history recently held at the Beechworth Anglican Christ Church. PHOTO: Coral Cooksley. to the Burke Museum and Stanley Athenaeum. Jamie also spoke about James Bray, who photographed the aftermath of the Kelly gang’s Glenrowan siege. “He also photographed the prominent Protestant women of Beechworth petitioning for the right to vote in the late 1880s and 1890,” he said.

“Some of them mixed with police inspector Robert O’Hara Burke and judge Redmond Barry, others with the famed opera diva Nellie Melba. “And everyday connections and relationships between them and with them helped shape the way we see ourselves today. “But we should celebrate

them and truly recognise the significance of their cultural legacy, administrative prowess, advocacy, and pursuit of democratic values.” Jamie said he would love to help the community join together to work towards the development of a gallery that celebrates their legacy as well as a research centre. “This would help us and

those who come after us to understand the significance of what happened here and the change that grew from it,” he said. “I’m hoping that through presentations like this we can start to generate momentum for a really serious contemporary designed art gallery but it’s a big longterm project.”

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ADVERTISER, Friday, December 8, 2023 - Page 9

Disaster aftermath support for women By STEVE KELLY A LOCAL women’s support agency will use $120,000 to continue a project that supports regional women especially in the aftermath of extreme traumatic events like bushfires and floods. Women’s Health Goulburn North East (WHGNE) has been funded $40k per annum over three years to establish ‘Women Gathering in Goulburn and North East Victoria’, a project that will help bring together and support the health and wellbeing of regional women. “We are really pleased with this funding, particularly as it runs over a multiyear period,” WHGNE CEO Amanda Kelly said. “This longer term focus allows us to build on the work that commenced in the aftermath of the 2022 floods and to provide con-

sistent support for those long-term connections that are integral to our communities in recovery.” With the State Government funding and a host of innovative initiatives within local communities, WHGNE is undertaking a number of activities to contribute to flood relief and the prevention and mitigation of mental health related impacts of disaster in northeast Victoria. Seven recipients from the region have received Flood Recovery Wellbeing Grants through WHGNE and they are supporting a number of events fostering the wellbeing of diverse communities in northeast Victoria. The Care through Disaster research project will contribute to the understanding of what women and communities need before, during and after disaster.

WHGNE has also contributed to disseminating resilience packs, designed to foster the wellbeing of children and young people who have been impacted by floods. Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas announced 12 other recipients of the Women’s Health and Wellbeing Support Groups and Programs grants program. “For many women, the support they’ll get from these groups will be lifechanging – healthcare should be equitable and by empowering women to understand their own bodies and experiences, we can make a real difference,” Ms Thomas said. “We are giving women the support they deserve – these groups are about listening to Victorian women and making sure no one slips through the cracks.”

• Just got married? • Just had a baby? • Recently taken a great photo in the Indigo Shire? • Been to a recent function or event and captured a great memory? Send your photo to the Ovens & Murray Advertiser and let us share it with your community! E-mail: edit.omadvertiser@nemedia.com.au

Please include names of people in photos, location and name of event.

ENGAGED IN COMMUNITY: Rutherglen’s Ted Shanks is passionate about contributing to his community and is a Rutherglen Men’s Shed member, a Rotarian and a Rutherglen Uniting church member.

Handcrafting passion TED (Edward) Shanks was born in Glasgow, Scotland and emigrated with his family to Australia in 1953, living in Warragul in Gippsland before a move to Dandenong three years later. He has lived in Rutherglen for 48 years. Ted completed his secondary schooling in Dandenong before taking up a teacher training course at Melbourne Teacher’s College, Melbourne University and RMIT. He completed his training as a secondary art and craft teacher. Ted and his wife Beth have been married for 52 years. Their son and a daughter grew up in Rutherglen where they completed their education. What did you do workwise? I taught art, metalcraft, and woodcraft firstly at Balmoral in Western Victoria, then at Rushworth, finally obtaining a promotion to Rutherglen High School in 1975. I was appointed as assistant principal in 1993 and continued in this role until I retired in 2003. What brought you to your role/career? I started to think about a career early in my secondary schooling and transferred from Dandenong Technical School to Dandenong High School so I could gain a matriculation certificate to study teaching. I was influenced by great teachers along the way. Choosing secondary art/craft teaching allowed me to further my interest in practical art. What did you love about teaching? I enjoyed the positive interaction with young people. Teaching art and technology subjects also provided the opportunity to work in different ways with students, helping them to increase their skills and develop their interests in ways not always offered by other subjects. I also enjoyed the friendship and interaction with fellow staff members as well as sharing common goals and interests. What do you do in the community? I played a number of sports on the weekends where I got to know a wider cohort of community members and took up administrative positions in some of the clubs and coached some teams. I’ve been an Apex Club member and am an active Rotary Club member being a past president and a board member of both clubs. I’ve been a Rutherglen Uniting Church member since we arrived in the town and am a member of

Ted Shanks the church council and worship team. I have been a Rutherglen Community Men’s Shed member for the past 16 or so years. I was an inaugural member and joint coordinator and am the secretary. We live in a great community enjoying many benefits and advantages that don’t just happen. I feel that I have an obligation to contribute in whatever way I can. Is there an important community issue that you think needs addressing? The ongoing issue of trucks and heavy vehicles in Main Street. Over the past 15 years, I have been a member of two committees that looked at this issue in depth, made recommendations to Indigo Council and Rural Roads Victoria but despite all this and the expenditure of well over a million dollars, nothing significant has happened. We still don’t have a heavy vehicle bypass and, given the recent Federal Government decision to cut any funding for this project, we are not likely to see anything changing in the foreseeable future, What do you see as one of the most important current world issues? More than one - climate change, pollution, war and I would love to see a more effective United Nations that pushes alternatives to armed conflict. 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? I would love to bring my father here. He died at age 50 when I was 19. I would like him to see how his decision to emigrate has affected his family. Two of his sons live in the Indigo Shire as did my mother. I think that he would be pleased to see what we made of the opportunities presented in our generation and the next. What book are you reading? ‘The Shepherd’s Hut’ by Tim Winton.

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V/Line workers to strike, in push for better pay By STEVE KELLY

WINE CONNOISSEURS: (From left) Brian Lewis of Greenacres Vineyard, who won TAFCO Viticulturist of the Year at the North East Victorian Wine Challenge, with Billy Button Wines’ chief winemaker and co-director Glenn James and senior winemaker Melissa Fettke, whose 2023 Pecorino won the TAFCO Wine of Show Trophy. PHOTO: Brodie Everist

Alpine winery shines at 2023 wine challenge THE North East Victorian Wine Challenge was held at the Myrtleford Bowls Club last month after a four-year hiatus, with local winery Billy Button Wines winning a number of awards for a 2023 white wine. The wine show celebrates the diversity of styles and varieties produced in the North East Victorian Wine Zone, which encompasses the Alpine Valleys, Beechworth, Glenrowan, King Valley and Rutherglen. According to event manager Alpine Valleys Vignerons, the wine challenge had a record 335 entries across 27 classes. Treasurer and secretary of Alpine Valleys Vignerons Bridget Phillips said support from each of the regional wine associations – Wines of the King Valley, Winemakers of Rutherglen, Glenrowan Vignerons and Beechworth Vignerons – and the collaboration between the regions, is integral to the show’s success. “There’s a lot of work that goes into the organisation of a wine show and the region’s wine producers have wholeheartedly

supported this event, from entering their wines to attending committee meetings, rounding up sponsors and providing staff to help with stewarding, and the washing and polishing of glasses over the three days of judging,” she said. Wine writer, educator and presenter Jane Faulkner returned as chair of the judging panel. “I’ve witnessed this show not only grow, but flourish,” Ms Faulkner said. “The North East zones all have their strengths with an array of outstanding wines, and many have been on show this week.” Ms Faulkner said there were strong classes of tempranillo, chardonnay and shiraz amongst the record number of entries. “Each region is pushing boundaries with some producers creating different styles or interpretations of a particular variety or varieties, and all the while, the fine-tuning continues,” she said. “To all those who came on board from sponsors, exhibitors to those behind-the-scene, in-

cluding stewards and all the essential support staff, thank you. “You have ensured this little show has morphed into one of the best. “It is why it can attract the highest calibre of judges as it did this year. “Those outstanding judges were thoughtful, considered, thorough and worked diligently to seek out wines worthy of medals, especially the gold ones and ultimately the trophy winners.” The wine challenge culminated in a public tasting followed by the trophy presentation, where Billy Button Wines was awarded the TAFCO Wine of Show Trophy for their 2023 ‘Not the Cheese’ Pecorino. The wine also received the Best Wine of Region trophy, the Laffort Best White Table Wine Trophy and also Classic Oak Products Best Alternative White Wine Trophy. A Rodda Wines was awarded the Xcel Freight Wine of Provenance Trophy for their trio of tempranillo from the Aquilla Audax Vineyard. Other standout wines includ-

ed the 2012 Cofield Provincial Black Sparkling Pinot Chardonnay and the 2021 Mayford Tempranillo. Brian Lewis of Greenacres Vineyard in Merriang South won TAFCO Viticulturist of the Year. The Alpine Valleys was awarded the Regional Shield, given to the wine region with the highest aggregate points. Alpine Valleys Vignerons president Stef Antonello said they appreciated the support received from local and wine industry sponsors. “We’re still in a rebuilding phase, getting this show back up and running after a few years off, and their support was absolutely essential for a successful event,” Mr Antonello said. “We’re really building on the momentum of the attention that this region has been receiving, not only within the wine community for the diverse and quality wines we are producing, but from the greater region as a vibrant year-round wine tourism destination.”

STRIKE action by V/Line workers planned for Wednesday, December 13 is likely to cause widespread disruption for country commuters. Workers are pushing for a 17 per cent pay increase over four years, a deal that would bring V/Line staff in line with a recent pay deal that their metro counterparts secured. Operations staff, including conductors, train controllers, stations and customer service staff, and authorised officers will walk off the job for four hours between 3am and 7am, bringing the network to a halt. At this stage only non-driving grades will participate in the action. The entire V/Line network across the state will be affected as workers take action to advance claims for their enterprise agreement. The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) reported it has been bargaining since June, but V/Line is yet to address key concerns that have been raised throughout thenegotiations to date. RTBU branch secretary Vik Sharma said in the current climate of automation, major changes and an uncertain economy, members are fighting for what all workers across Victoria deserve – job security and decent conditions. “We are focused on minimising the impacts of industrial action on the travelling public and encourage commuters to plan their working weeks accordingly where possible,” he said. “The RTBU will continue to meet with V/Line and negotiate in good faith as members would prefer to avoid industrial action if their concerns are addressed. “V/Line needs to stop blindly driving this corporate cowboys’ train and listen to its workers. “We make no apologies in our fight to secure decent conditions for our members.” The decision to escalate the campaign comes following last week’s ballot result that saw union members vote overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action. V/Line chief executive officer Matt Carrick said it has been negotiating with employee representatives and the union “in good faith and urge the union to reconsider industrial action” which could potentially disrupt tens of thousands of passengers. “We’ll continue to work with the union to deliver excellent employment conditions for our workforce and a better service for our passengers - we will work hard to minimise the impacts of disruption on passengers,” Mr Carrick said. V/Line will work to finalise a plan for replacement coaches and will notify passengers of these plans as soon as possible.

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Workshop to improve emergency readiness THE final in a host of community resilience workshops for Stanley residents to prepare them for emergencies will be held next week. The Indigo Shire Council and Red Cross collaboration will culminate in a Meet your Neighbours evening at Stanley Recreation Reserve from 6 to 8pm on Wednesday evening.

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Line in the sand moment addresses drink driving myths By RYAN MALCOLM HUME region residents are being urged to take extra caution to refrain from drink-driving on the roads this holiday season, with the region’s road toll already climbing to its highest since 2018. A new Transport Accident Commission (TAC) road safety campaign is set to bust the myths which exist around how to stay under .05 when drinking alcohol, amid recent TAC road safety monitor data indicating a “concerning” 48pc of Victorians would still consider driving after two or more alcoholic drinks. So far this year, 57 lives have been lost throughout the Hume region, with Shepparton (14), Moira (12) and Indigo, Mansfield, Strathbogie and Wangaratta shires (five each) reflecting the bulk of road deaths. According to the TAC, alcohol remains the most represented drug in fatally injured drivers, with close to one in every five drivers or riders killed in Victoria being over the legal alcohol limit. The road safety campaign combats myths around the speed at which people drink, how many standard drinks are appropriate per hour, if people have had enough water, how much people have eaten, as well as body size. It also places a spotlight on one of the mandatory penalties for all drink drivers caught in Victoria – having an interlock device installed. Transport Accident Commission chief executive officer Tracey Slatter said the campaign was about embracing a culture where driving after drinking any alcohol was not considered normal. “As we head into summer and

STOP AND THINK: Police, TAC urge caution on roadways this festive season. the festive season, this campaign is a timely reminder to Victorians that drinking and driving don’t mix,” she said. “Many people think they can manage their blood-alcohol level by following a set of vague rules handed down through generations, but the only way to avoid the risk entirely is to completely separate drinking and driving.” The campaign comes as Victoria Police recently erected

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its annual lives lost Christmas tree at its Melbourne CBD headquarters, which is adorned with baubles honouring those who have lost their lives on Victorian roads this year. The 274 baubles adorning the tree as of Wednesday is the highest number since 2008. Road policing Assistant Commissioner, Glenn Weir, said he didn’t want to see the tree further decorated. “It’s a stark reminder of the

North East riders gather for Christmas toy run North East riders g gather for Christmas toyy run By BRODIE EVERIST

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importance of taking care on the roads,” he said. “I’m really appealing to everyone between now and the end of the year to take care, have conversations with your loved ones as they’re going out on the roads – if you’re in a car, you’ve got a responsibility to make sure you get to your destination safely. “We want every Victorian to remember Christmas this year for a good reason, not for one of tragedy.”

A GROUP of motorcyclists are doing their very best Father Christmas impressions this Sunday as they meet in Ovens for the annual toy run, where they will deliver donated toys to the Salvation Army in Beechworth to help make sure all children get a present this Christmas. The event will start at the Happy Valley Hotel at 10am, where the Reverend Moira Evers will conduct a blessing of the riders. Myrtleford residents are encouraged to watch the procession of bikers, with one hot rod taking the toys, as they drive through town

at around 10:30am before they take a long route to Beechworth, via Everton and Eldorado. Organiser David (Stumps) Hogg said they will dress up as elves, Father Christmas and in other festive attire, though they don’t know what the temperature will be on Sunday. “We do it rain, hail or shine,” he said. Mr Hogg said the toy run has been running in Myrtleford for around five or six years after he and Yackandandah resident Trevor Botting took over the delivery from a Bright-based group. He said riders from as far as Yarrawonga will take part in the toy run, with an

expected delivery of around 200 toys. Local residents can still donate to the cause until Sunday morning by donating new toys for children approximately aged between 5 and 17. The toys should not be gift-wrapped and should be kept in their packaging. Soft toys are not permitted due to COVID-19 restrictions. Locals can also make monetary donations to the Salvation Army. For donations Mr Hogg said to contact him on 0427 823 951 or to contact the Happy Valley Hotel. “Every kid deserves a good Christmas,” he said.

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PYPER JENNINGS

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RUTHERGLEN’S u/12 cricketers made the trek to Wangaratta High School on Saturday morning to take on City Colts, and walked away winners after holding the home side to 2/70 from their 20 overs, having clubbed 8/114 from their own batting innings earlier in the day. PHOTOS: Melissa Beattie

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ADVERTISER, Friday, December 8, 2023 - Page 15

Twilight golfers continue to turn out in numbers By DYLAN POOL LAST Thursday we had a fantastic roll up of 23 players for twilight golf on the back nine. It was hot at the top, with Dave Lang taking home the cash on a three way countback on 21, with his 19+2 winning the countback from John Sheehan 21 (18+3) and Bill Love who was relegated to third also with 21 (18+3). Ball winners were Josh Carr 20 (18+2), Emilio Miranda 19 (18+1), Dave Atkins 19 (16+3) and Rod Shaw 19 (16+3). The Beechworth Bakery nearest the pin went to Dave Lang on the 10th, the Alpine Indigo Accounting nearest the pin on the 18th went to Graeme Cordy and Tony Stockdale claimed the cash with his nearest chip on the 14th. Dave Atkins took home the

CC’s Quality Meats & Smokehouse voucher in the raffle. On Sunday a couple of groups went around the course for a stableford round. The bit of extra run of late has the scores improving with Andy Croome (18) returning a great score of 40 points, Jamie Dolny (17) thought he had a good enough score to win the day, but had to settle for second with 38 points. Zane Howard (22) came third with 35. Nearest the pins went to Andy Croome on both the 3rd and 5th, while George Ward took home the prize on the 17th. Sunday will be another stableford round with the normal 11:30 for 12 hit off. Twilight golf will continue throughout the festive season. We will hold an ambrose

WINDING UP: George Ward takes to the tee before claiming the nearest the pin on the 17th hole during Sunday’s competition. competition on the last Thursday before Christmas on December 21, where we will

have some extra prizes up for grabs, so make sure you don’t miss that one.

Beechworth triumphs in two-run thriller ■ Continued from

back page “It was a bit of a batter’s game and the scores reflected that, but it got a bit closer than it probably should’ve. “They needed 12 off two, and I was fairly confident, I would’ve been fairly disappointed if they got over the line from there. “He (Cavill) banged a six off the secondlast ball, and you very rarely see guys hit two sixes in a row - I was pretty calm, but I’m sure a few of the younger guys were a bit on edge.” Surrey said Ellett was having a breakout season, with the young opener leading the A grade batting aggregate with 290 runs.

“He’s done well, it’s a good reward for a young fella to keep making runs,” he said. “One innings is good but to do it three or four times so far for the year, that’s what you want. “All clubs are chasing that, they want the top order to really dig in and get involved, which we’ve been able to do so far for not even half a year. “That’s the challenge going forward now, to keep going and make a year of it, not just a week here and a week there.” The Wanderers take on Rovers United Bruck this weekend at WJ Findlay Oval in a 40 over match.

Residents explore nature of local birdlife By CORAL COOKSLEY WOORAGEE Landcare members were all ears when local ecologist Dr Richard Loyn delivered a fascinating talk at a Wooragee Landcare event “Birds in Wooragee and nearby” last month held in the Wooragee Hall. Known to open up the windows on the world with his research including fascinating birdlife, Dr Loyn is president of North East community-driven landscape restoration group Swamps Rivers and Ranges. The group’s aim is to work alongside communities to improve landscape health. With the group managing a bird monitoring project for the last eight years with volunteers undertaking observations along set transects, Wooragee Landcare’s Sue Brunskill said many sites exist in the North East with four lots in Wooragee. She said Dr Loyn shared some of his latest project analysis findings as well as other interesting bird stories. “Richard also spoke about mistletoe as an important resource for birds,” she said.

“Painted Honeyeaters found in Wooragee rely on mistletoe fruits to survive and they travel around dependent on the plants which are commonly found in Silver Wattles in this area.” Among interesting sightings recently in the area mentioned in the talk have been the Channel-billed Cuckoo, a bird more commonly found in the north of Australia. Others have been the whiteheaded pigeon never recorded before in the North East spotted by Landcare facilitator Jim Blackney recently in his garden. In discussions Woodland birds were noted to be in serious trouble with twenty per cent of the species facing extinction while some rare woodland birds such as the Regent Honeyeater and Diamond Firetail had been noticed in local gardens. Planning gardens and properties with bird habitat in mind can play an important part in helping to protect and nurture birds for the future. Sue said Friday night meetings held at 6pm for these events are proving to be a good time slot for short talks. “It’s a good end to the working

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INFORMATIVE: Deb Tully (left), Pieter Mourik, presenter Richard Loyn with Steve Routledge at the recent Wooragee Landcare talk given on birds. week with great speakers, a time for a catch up with friends and then as Pieter Mourik says be home in time to watch the ABC’s Gardening Australia. We are planning to run some talks on bird Identification for be-

ginners next year with theory and then some field sessions.” For information on bird species and their abundance in Wooragee and Burgoigee visit the Wooragee Landcare website at www.woorageelandcare.org.au.

A celebrated Australian ecologist, his passion for birds started as a youngster with a journey to an academic career focusing on forests, fire, wetlands, conservation and sustainable development.

Page 16 - ADVERTISER, Friday, December 8, 2023

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STRONG OPENER: Clancy Ellett smashed his fourth score of more than 50 runs against Benalla last weekend.

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IT came down to the final over at Benalla’s Gardens Oval, but Beechworth Wanderers’ A grade squad took the points over the Bushrangers by just two runs. The Wanderers success-

fully defended their 5/197 total, limiting Benalla to 7/195 from their 40 overs. Once Beechworth won the toss and chose to bat, youngster Clancy Ellett notched up his fourth half century for the year in an 85-run first wicket stand with Kayde Surrey.

After Kayde departed for 32, Ellett and skipper Brenton Surrey kept the runs flowing, with Ellett eventually dismissed by Ross Cavill for 73. At 2/137, the middle order added another 50 runs in the remaining overs, with Bren-

ton belting 56 at better than a run a ball. Tight bowling and solid fielding put the pressure on the Bushrangers, as they worked their way to 4/79. Cavill was the glue holding the run chase together, with smart and aggressive

batting inching the total ever closer. Wickets kept falling at the other end, with Cavill and the Bushrangers needing 16 from the final over to win. Despite a six launched off the second last ball, Beechworth emerged victorious.

“It was a good game of cricket, both teams had a go,” Surrey said “It was a pretty good batting wicket, and once you got in and that white ball got old it came onto the bat pretty well. ■ Continued page 15

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