Next year’s Beechworth Secondary College captains Aya McInerney and Poppy Voight delivered the commemorative address at this year’s Remembrance Day Service.
PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
Story page 3
A GREATER diversity of representation across Indigo Shire has emerged with four new faces among seven councillors elected for the next council term.
Successful candidates were sworn in as councillors at 6pm on Monday at the main council offices in Mayday Hills, which followed the formal declaration of the Indigo poll in Beechworth last Friday.
Jane Dowsley from Yackandandah, Beechworth’s
BY CORAL COOKSLEY ccooksley@ nemedia.com.au
John Harvey, Scott Landells from Chiltern, and Kiewa’s Greg Bourke joined re-elected councillors Sophie Price from Barnawartha, Roberta Horne from Rutherglen and Diane Shepheard from Indigo Valley.
Mr Bourke, presently overseas, will be sworn in upon his return.
Eleven candidates had stood for election with Bernard Gaffney, Emerick Teissl, Graham Parton and Lisa Turner unsuccessful.
From 13,644 enrolments in the shire there were 10,868 formal votes, 569 informal (4.98 per cent of the total votes), with voter turnout at 11,437 (83.82 per cent of the total enrolment).
In an invited address to successful candidates on Friday Cr Shepheard, now in her third term, said she was excited to see four
new faces on council as well as being part of a new group.
She thanked all candidates for their great campaigns as well as acknowledging the work over the last four years of Mr Gaffney – a councillor for 16 years and a former mayor – and Emerick Teissl who had again tossed their hats in the ring.
Despite being sixth after first preference votes were counted, Mr Gaffney was overtaken on preferences.
■ Continued page 2
Shadowing Hume and Hovell’s path
AUSTRALIAN-born Hamilton Hume and the irascible English-born William Hovell on November 23-24, 1824, passed near what is now Beechworth, Stanley and Murmungee on their expedition from Yass to Port Phillip.
With them were “six convicts, a pram, four bullocks, two horses and five hunting dogs”, as historian Kiera Lindsey described it - and one of the convicts proved vital to the exploring party’s success.
Beechworth History and Heritage Society will remark the bicentenary of the expedition with a presentation in Beechworth town hall on November 23.
Chair Jamie Kronborg said it would recount the challenges faced by the party.
“It will also explore the point that the ‘fine country’ through which Hume and Hovell, convicts and pack animals journeyed ‘was neither unknown nor uninhabited’, as Kiera Lindsey noted in ‘The pathfinders’, an audio history broadcast on the ABC in 2022,” Jamie said.
“What did they find? Did they engage with Dhudhuroa Waywurru, Bangerang or other First Nations’ people on Country?”
The event will run 6-8pm and include music from the late Georgian period led and performed by Sandra Williams, Beechworth Singers’ director Colleen Arnott and Mark Stephens.
Refreshments will also be served.
Tickets are available for $49 ($40 concession) at trybooking.com/CWLCY or can be reserved by text to 0409 912 967 for collection at the door.
Proceeds will fund town hall pipe organ maintenance.
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YOUR OVENS AND MURRAY TEAM
By CORAL COOKSLEY
DEMONSTRATIONS of how bushfires gain momentum drew crowds at the Beechworth Farmers market two weeks ago.
Community partnerships support officer for the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) Ben Merritt, who lives locally, had been invited by the Beechworth Fire Brigade to give the presentation.
The local fire brigade was also on hand as well including a recruiting drive to provide the local community with information about fires, prevention and safety.
Mr Merritt, working in fire management, used a fire behaviour table tool to showcase how bushfires worked.
“What I’ve been doing is showing how the wind and the slope make fires get bigger, faster and more intense than a fire that’s backing down the slope and going into the wind,” he said.
“It’s all about educating the public and people coming through the market about safety around fires leading into the fire season.
“The CFA are also provided their expertise in safety within houses and structures, smoke alarms and also how to defend your house.
“I work in the bush and vegetation, and they work around structures which is more dangerous than being in the bush.”
Mr Merritt said the demonstration drew a good attendance.
“We’ve had eight runs on the table, and I would say we’ve had around 400 people come up and watch the entire sessions over those runs and then ask some questions afterwards about how they can be safe and what they need to do,” he said.
“There have been a c ouple of people who said they have put their hand up to become
Mr Merritt said the demonstrations kicked off at 9am until the market finished.
The Fire Danger Period (FDP) begins at 1am at the beginning of next week - Monday, November 18 for CFA’s North East region.
FDP will begin for local government areas including Indigo, Wangaratta, Benalla, Mansfield, Alpine, Towong, Wodonga, and also alpine resorts Falls Creek, Mt Hotham and Mt Buller.
CFA District 23 acting assistant chief fire officer Steve Contessa said now is the time for residents to be aware of the conditions around them and to prepare their properties.
District 24 assistant chief fire officer Brett Myers said a summer of grassfires is predicted due to a great deal of fuel.
“We’re asking people to keep an eye out on the VicEmergency App and CFA website, to be aware of the fire danger ratings and to know what their plan is should a fire event arise,” Mr Myers said.
Diversity shines in council elections
■ From front page
Newly elected councillor Scott Landells said having one councillor from six different towns and a rural locality was likely to be unique in the council’s history.
“But each councillor represents every community from around the shire,” he said.
“I’m really looking forward to being a representative for all communities and have had the fortune to live in three towns.”
With by far the highest number of votes with a tally of 2351 (21.63 per cent) of first preferences, re-elected Ms Price and mayor for the last term, said in her third election the high number of votes had given her confidence.
“I’m really looking forward to working with all of these people and we really have a great group to work with,” she said.
“I think the community has done a good job in who they’ve elected, and it will be an important next four years as there’s lots going on in the shire.
“I’m hearing from elected councillors about lots of the issues they aware of throughout their campaigning.”
Cr Dowsley said she is excited to be delivering on things she campaigned for and can’t wait to get started.
“It’s about economic and sustainable growth of our towns, holding council to account and better community engagement,” she said.
Cr Harvey’s said his aim is to help improve the life of the citizens of the Indigo Shire.
“I’m very much into basic services of rates, roads and rubbish and think council’s primary focus should be looking after infrastructure,” he said.
Re-elected councillor Roberta Horne said she is looking forward to working with a new group of people to work giving a new energy.
“I just hope we can focus more on listening to what people are saying to us,” she said.
Cr Horne said she is also about infrastructure including the fundamentals such as roads and footpaths.
“But I really want to encourage the community to keep en-
gaged as it doesn’t end with just voting somebody in,” she said.
“We need to really keep aware of what’s going on and what’s happening, because it’s the voices that make the difference.”
The long-time advocate for improved safety on Rutherglen’s Main Street, said recently a petition with 900 voices sent to the Parliament of Victoria’s Upper House had finally got something happening.
“I don’t think that would have happened without those 900 voices,” she said.
The vote for mayor and deputy mayor will be held at next week’s statutory meeting on Tuesday, November 19 at 6.30pm at council offices in Mayday Hills.
AWARENESS DRIVE: DELWP’s Ben Merritt delivered an informative presentation about fire behaviour with help from young Beechworth Fire brigade volunteer Flynn Chalmers at the Beechworth Farmers Market held at the beginning of this month. PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
EXCITED: Newly elected councillors following the formal declaration last Friday in Beechworth Scott Landells (left), Jane Dowsley, John Harvey, Sophie Price, Diane Shepheard and Roberta Horne are eager to get on with the job.
PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
A time to remember
By CORAL COOKSLEY
FOR incoming Beechworth Secondary College captains Poppy Voight and Aya McInerney, Remembrance Day acknowledges courageous and selfless people who served and continue to serve a great country for Australians to live rich, happy and peaceful lives.
Next year’s school captains delivered this year’s commemorative address for Remembrance Day marking the 106th anniversary of the Armistice on the Western Front.
Beechworth RSL Sub Branch organised the moving event held at the Town Halls Garden’s Cenotaph on Monday, November 11, where an estimated 100 people gathered.
Beechworth was also mentioned in Governor General Sam Mostyn’s address in Canberra where she found meaning in a single photo held at the War Memorial where it came to mind during his first visit to the Western Front as GovernorGeneral two months ago.
“Captured from above Sydney’s George Street looking down towards Martin Place, it pictures a crowd gathered to celebrate Armistice Day on November 11, 1919,” she said.
“Standing in their thousands, they are Australians, stilled and silent in a solemn moment of commemoration.
“Seeking solace in community, they gathered - in Sydney and Perth, Pinnaroo and Wagga Wagga, Beechworth and Scottsdale – in cities and towns, in the bush and regional centres across the country, to commemorate and give thanks.
“And each year since, for more than a century, Australians have
MOVING SERVICE: Musician Mark Stephens (left), Beechworth RSL president John Eldrid, Beechworth Secondary College (BSC) year 7 student Olivia Cavallin (left and raised the flag), year 11 students Ella Pund, next year’s captains Poppy Voight and Aya McInerney, vice-captain Tahji Browne, year 7 student Austin Milsome (raised the flag), year 11 students Madeline Sandow (wreath laying), Albert Milsome, Ella Rose (wreath laing) and Cooper Savage with BSC principal Patricia Broom and Beechworth Salvation Army major Pauline Middleton took part in Monday’s Remembrance Service.
repeated this ritual of remembrance – just as we gather today.”
Beechworth RSL president John Eldrid said the day is a reminder with a minute’s silence on the 11th hour on November’s 11th day when guns fell silent in 1918, after four years of the horrific war ended.
He said 332,000 Australians fought in the Great War with the First Australian Imperial Force (AIF).
Poppy and Aya drew upon one of many Beechworthians who enlisted in World War I for their address – Charles Alfred Birtles - born in the town on June 30, 1889.
The soldier enlisted in the 19th battalion on July 10, 1915 with the battalion joining the battle in Gallipoli in August that year.
They spoke about his following time in Egypt after the ANZAC retreat as well as his service in
France and the Western Front.
Private Birtles had been acknowledged for conspicuous gallantry, awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his actions in 1917 and promoted to Corporal and then Sergeant soon after.
Aya said Sergeant Birtles received the Military Medal in October 1917, followed by joining the Australian Flying corps in 1918 undertaking training to fly Sopwith Snipe planes.
He returned to Australian in 1919 after being promoted to Second Lieutenant.
Poppy said Second Lieutenant Birtles enlisted again in the World War II.
The young students said they were deeply grateful for sacrifices made to serve the country by Second Lieutenant Birtles and count-
PHOTOS: Coral Cooksley
less others.
“They faced unimaginable challenges and gave so much not only for those who lived during their time but for future generations,” they said.
LEST
WE FORGET: Wooragee Primary School students Addison Rushford (left) and Larissa Mackay laid a wreath on behalf of the school at Monday’s Remembrance Day Service.
RESPECT: Beechworth Secondary College year 11 students next year’s vice-captain Ella Pund (left), captain Poppy Voight, musician Mark Stephens, Beechworth RSL president John Eldrid, BSC captain Aya McInerney and vice-captain Tahji Browne at Monday’s Remembrance Day Service.
Mr Eldrid said young people taking part in the service is paramount in keeping Remembrance Day alive.
“Their families are proud to see them being part of the commemoration as well,” he said.
Beechworth Salvation Army major Pauline Middleton gave the Prayer of Remembrance, Mr Eldrid recited The Ode with poems ‘In Flanders Field’ and ‘We Shall Keep the Faith’ read by BSC incom-
ing vice-captains Ella Pund and Tahji Browne.
Mark Stephens sang ‘And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda’, as well as leading the crowd in singing the Australian and New Zealand Nations Anthems.
Wreath laying by community organisations, local schools and other organisations followed before the ceremony conclusion.
SMALL WORLD WAR I REPLICA BATTLESHIP TURNS HEADS
By CORAL COOKSLEY
A SMALL World War I battleship replica appeared on Beechworth’s Lake Sambell on Remembrance Day this week. Wangaratta’s Joel Iskov with his daughter Skye created a great deal of interest from the community with many people heading to the Lake to have a look.
Mr Iskov said the boat had originally been a small family canoe built in1950 by the late Gordon Gibson in Wangaratta and used throughout the 1950s and 60s.
As a furniture removalist engaged by Mr Gibson’s son for a move, he came across the steel canoe with a timber seat at the front and back four years ago sitting in a paddock.
“I fell in love with it and bought it off him,” he said.
“I’ve kept its name of Ulysses as it was named after the passenger ship Gordon’s great uncle, Rowley Jones embarked to England on in 1916 when he enlisted in World War 1.”
Mr Iskov said he delved into the history getting hold of as much information as he could then built the replica based on the
World War I Ulysses battleship H61.
Transforming the vessel into the replica using steel and iron scrap metal, it took six months to get the shape while tinkering with the boat for the last four years.
“It became a labour of love, and this is first time showing her off,” he said.
“We go camping and it’s our fishing boat, and we have a gas cooker and all that on it.”
Local Beechworth resident Lyndan Blackman said it was wonderful to see such an interesting boat on Lake Sambell.
FASCINATED: Beechworth’s Lyndan Black with Wangaratta’s Skye Iskov (left) and her dad Joel who built the WW1 battleship replica at Lake Sambell on Monday.
PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
A career in full bloom
Jennifer Wright
JENNIFER Wright was born in Wodonga and left the regional city after high school to see the world and attend university.
“I was desperate to leave and explore the world but always loved the North East, and its beauty, so I returned 12 years ago,” she said.
“I’ve lived in Yackandandah with my partner Steve for 10 years and feel very fortunate to be raising our three ‘kiddos’ here.”
What do you do workwise?
I own and operate Juniper and Stone Florist in Yackandandah where I also make art and sell gifts, run workshops and of course create floral arrangements.
What brought you to your role/ career?
I studied and worked in the arts sector but have always wanted to be a florist since I was seven years old.
About five years ago I did a career gear shift when I had my kids as the corporate world wasn’t so flexible.
While on maternity leave I studied floristry and found I could bring my creative mind and business skills together and run my own little operation.
What do you love about your work?
There are a few loves – being the custodian of other people’s sentiment and then crafting that in floral form and delivering or handing over the beautiful blooms.
I also really love the flowers, customers, the artists I get to represent, and learning from the growers and farmers.
What do you do in the community?
I love opening my little shop four days a week and welcoming in our community and tourists alike.
I have impromptu making happenings and planned workshops and participate in community events such as events like Beechworth Honey’s ‘Pollinate’, Vivienne Cate’s Spring Fashion show, Yackandandah Women’s Shed Christmas market
flowers with youngsters too.
and Yackandandah Folk Festivals.
I am privileged to be a parent helper volunteer at Yackandandah Kinder and have recently shared my knowledge and a big bucket of flowers with the students.
I was also able to do this for with my eldest son’s class at St Francis of Assisi Primary School too.
I have painted banners and hung the annual (and epic) end of year art show for the kindergarten as well.
It really is an absolute joy to see children create and make and to see their process.
Is there an important community issue that you think needs
addressing beyond a local one?
The ongoing and scary number of women across Australia who die or experience violence delivered by men.
What would you do to solve change, improve that situation?
I would like to see better education around respectful relationships for young people and increased support and funding (wage bases) for professionals working with men to change behaviours.
What do you see as one of the most important current world issues?
Gender equity equality and respect and what is happening in America is quite alarming.
Indigo ambulance response times take slight setback
INDIGO Shire ambulance response times to urgent calls for assistance are still among the worst 15 shires across the state as latest quarterly data is released.
According to the Ambulance Victoria data, Indigo Shire crews were on average 14 seconds slower responding to Code 1 patient cases (requiring urgent paramedic and hospital care) between July and September compared to the last quarter.
The average response time to Code 1 incidents within the shire was 21 minutes, the 15th slowest in the state.
Out of 187 total incidents, crews were able to respond to 29.4 per cent of those within 15 minutes, down from 33.8 per cent last quarter.
Within the April to June quarter, Indigo Shire observed one of the biggest improvements in average response times to critical incidents, shaving two minutes and 35 seconds off the average response time between the January to March quarter.
AV Hume regional director Peter Jenkins said there is more work to do and AV continues to work with hospitals to transfer patients as quickly as possible and ensure all Victorians receive the right care at the right time.
“Our expert Secondary Triage team of nurses and paramedics also make a real difference by connecting patients with the care they need while helping free up crews for patients in time-critical emergencies,” Mr Jenkins said.
“From July to September, 41,142 people who did not need an emergency ambulance were instead connected to more appropriate care by paramedics and nurses in Secondary Triage.
“In 2023/24, paramedics referred nearly 43,000 patients to the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED), with over three quarters cared for without transport to a physical ED.”
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?
Landscape artist and photographer Ansel Adams.
I would like to follow him rather than show him - follow him and see how he makes art from the natural environment.
It would be fascinating to see what he would have capture here in Indigo Shire, there are so many breathtaking vistas he would be spoilt for choice.
What book are you reading?
‘The Paper Palace’ by American author Miranda Cowley Heller –again! This is her debut novel.
Mr Jenkins said it is also important that everyone does their part, and if your matter is not an emergency, consider using alternative care options.
“This includes the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED), Urgent Care Clinics and other options such as your GP or pharmacist, or Nurse-On-Call on 1300 60 60 24,” he said.
Ambulance Victoria (AV) executive director regional operations Danielle North said across Victoria there was a 2.7 per cent drop in demand compared to the previous three months, which was the busiest quarter on record for Code 1 cases.
As a result, ambulance response times to the most time-critical patients was 16 seconds faster on average across Victoria.
CREATIVE: Yackandandah’s Jennifer Wright loves her career gear shift in becoming a florist and sharing her knowledge of
PHOTO: Agi Lebiedz
ARTISTIC: Chiltern sculptor Louise Hazelton with her incredible metal creation at the Chiltern art exhibition.
CREATIVE: Chiltern sculptor Helen Hay with her artistic metal garden sculpture at the Chiltern art exhibition.
Creatives showcase talent at Chiltern
By CORAL COOKSLEY
CLOSE to 40 art lovers including creatives with work on show gathered at the opening of an art exhibition hosted by the Old Chiltern Courthouse management committee and the Chiltern Art Collective at the beginning of this month.
Officially opened at the courthouse by award-winning artist Kirralee Anderson based in Chiltern, the guest speaker delivered a fascinating account of her artistic journey and love of the area.
Artists Bill Hotson and Yasmin Chambers with sculptors Helene Hay and Louise Hazelton were among talented creatives with an overall 68 works on show for the two-day weekend exhibition.
Among other artistic mediums had been felting, ceramics, drawings, photography and 3D work.
Committee management president Mr Hotson said mainly local artists showcased their work while some came from Rutherglen, Albury Wodonga, Beechworth and Benalla with the diversity of mediums and subjects.
He said around 120 people comprising locals and those from around the region and as far as Melbourne walked through the doors over the weekend.
Both Lois and Bill Hotson helping to drive the exhibition running with committee members and artists said they had been thrilled with the results.
“The showcase gives local artists an opportunity to present their work to the public and sell them runs in both spring and autumn each year and provides a great avenue for the Chiltern art collective,” Mr Hotson said.
A raffle run over the weekend won by local Chiltern resident Scott Landells contributed to raising close to $800.
“Funds raised go to the upkeep of the courthouse and refurbishment as an artistic space,” Mr Hotson said.
Lois said local photographer David Skinner donated the raffle prize – a photograph of the old Australasian Bank in Chiltern.
The exhibition ran over Saturday, November 2 and Sunday, November 3 with the opening night held on Friday, November 1.
ON SHOW: Chiltern artist Yasmin Chambers with her work on show at the Chiltern art exhibition.
TALENTED: Committee management president and artist Mr Hotson with his painting ‘Upper Murray Landscape’ on show at the Chiltern art exhibition earlier this month. PHOTOS: Belinda Adams
Inspirational gardens grow fundraiser success
By CORAL COOKSLEY
A FUNDRAISER held by Friends of Atauro Island last Sunday with four stunning gardens open to the public as a ticketed event tallied more than $5000.
Funds will support one of Australia’s closest and poorest neighbours – Timor Leste’s community on the small island of Atauro with its population of around 10,000 people.
Beechworth’s Valerie Crosse, Joan Simms and John Hennessy, Roberta Baker and Peter Matthews as well as Libby Hosking and Ross Taylor welcomed locals as well as people from around the region to their gardens showcasing a variety of native and mixed plantings.
Organisers estimated around 200 garden lovers took the opportunity to be inspired throughout the day with about 80 people attending a garden event wrapped around garden and food crop pollinators with environmental educator Karen Retra sharing her knowledge.
Ms Retra’s presentation in Libby and Ross’ garden had been supported by the Ovens Landcare Network in partnership with Swamps Rivers and Ranges with funding from the Victorian Landcare program.
Ms Retra said her talk delivered information about insects in gardens and their role in habitat gardening.
The environmentalist also covered attracting other animals to gardens as well as pollinators deemed food for
other critters such as birds or mammals.
“It might be pollinators that you just spend 10 minutes watching and learning about without any idea of things going on in the garden, and it’s another way to enjoy your garden,” she said.
Ms Retra said locals are a very supportive community.
“People come together to support a particular cause and do it as a fun fundraiser, and people are really enjoying seeing these different gardens which have been a great draw card as well as adding another interest such as the talk,” she said.
“There’s been something for everyone.”
Thrilled friendship group
president Libby Hosking said Ms Retra’s talk on pollinators at had been fantastic with community interest shown about keeping gardens healthy.
Ms Crosse – an artist inspired by her cottage style garden – with a mix of eclectic herbs, exotic deciduous shrubs, natives, fruit trees with some vegetables – said it has been a busy time in her garden with visitors.
“It’ s been wonderful and there’s nothing like supporting a project such as Atauro Island,” she said.
Ms Crosse said she called her garden ‘Mermaid’s Rest’ after turning a small salvaged timber boat into a garden bed.
▶ SEEDS FOR SALVATION: Wooragee’s Chris Robinson (left) and Sue Brunskill were among helpers on the day selling raffles tickets and combined open garden map with tickets at the Quercus
Neighbourhood Centre for the fundraiser.
The keen gardener said the eastern bank of her garden is a work in progress with indigenous native plants overlooking a wetland.
Ms Hosking said funds of $5340 raised on the day will help ongoing education and health projects on the island.
“It’s been a great effort by many people,” she said. An official memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed in 2008 between Indigo Shire and the municipality of Atauro Island where the Indigo Atauro Friendship Committee (Friends of
Atauro) formed to help develop relationships with the island. For more information about helping to sponsor projects or join the group with members regularly visiting Atauro island contact Libby Hosking on 0417 286 639.
Beechworth
Lesley Milne at the stall held in Roberta and Peter’s garden selling hand-crafted items from the women’s co-operative Boneca de Atauro as part of the fundraiser.
▲ SUPPORTED: Dr Wendy Connor (left) with Chris Robinson helped with the fundraiser. Dr O’Connor had first tripped to Atauro Island in 2004 where she began working there as a volunteer doctor with the connection developing into the ‘Friends of Atauro Island’ group.
GARDEN CHAT: Friends of Atauro Island president Libby Hosking, Ross Taylor and environmental educator Karen Retra at last Sunday’s fundraiser. PHOTOS: Coral Cooksley
Sponsorship revved up for grabs in shire
By CORAL COOKSLEY
PEOPLE across Beechworth and surrounds have a chance to jump start their mechanical career in the automotive industry with an interest of learning the ropes around older vehicles with sponsorship of up to $3000 from the local motor club.
Beechworth Old Cranks Motor Club president David McKay said the sponsorship can be for study, tools, employment or something related with the sponsorship open to school leaver or someone recently engaged in the trade.
“There might be someone who
started their apprenticeship last year,” he said.
“The old cranks run the fabulous Drive Back in Time weekend on the first weekend of May each year with an incredibly supportive community including individuals and businesses in town where we raise some funds.”
With the annual fundraising event where a well-supported raffle is run too, funds raised help in giving back to the community.
Mr McKay said technology is continually changing with technologies in older vehicles no longer being taught and the club would like to foster mechanical
knowledge around maintaining those older vehicles.
The president said there are some workshops in the region where older vehicles and engines are being restored.
“I see a great need in encouraging young people to get into the industry,” he said.
Mr McKay said three Old Cranks members will be on the selection panel.
Applications close next week on Wednesday 20 November.
For more information about the sponsorship contact Mr McKay on 0407 057 894 or email dmswmckay@bigpond.com.
Thousands expected to attend Folk Rhythm & Life Festival
THE three-day Folk Rhythm & Life Festival is gearing up for welcomed return to the Eldorado district next month.
What has been a staple on the local calendar for decades was disappointingly cancelled last year after the necessary approvals couldn’t be obtained in time.
However, with plans for the festival approved by the Rural City of Wangaratta last month, everything is falling into place for over 60 musical acts to entertain patrons from December 6 to 8.
Next month’s event will once again take place at the Bilyana Natural Amphitheatre on the rural outskirts of Eldorado, drawing attendees from across Australia and abroad to experience the unique atmosphere of the region.
The Folk Rhythm & Life Festival has celebrated music and the bush since 1996 and the strong fan base make it a significant drawcard, expected to attract an audience of
between 2000 and 3000.
A council spokesperson said events like these provide a major boost to the local economy, supporting hospitality, tourism and local businesses.
The spokesperson said council
Indi MP awaits more detail before deciding on social media ban
By CHLOE JAENICKE
INDI federal Independent MP
Helen Haines is undecided on whether she will support the Federal Government’s imminent legislation to set a minimum age of 16 for social media access.
Speaking after federal cabinet last Friday backed introducing proposed legislation as early as this month, Dr Haines told this masthead she is awaiting more detail from the government before making up her mind.
She said while she understands that social media can cause harm to young people, she also recognises that it can also be used as a platform for connection.
“I understand the deep concern of many about the effects of social media, which can sometimes have devastating consequences, particularly for young people,” Dr Haines said.
“I also recognise that for many people, social media is an important way that they foster and maintain connection.
“There are many suggestions about how to respond to the dangers of social media, of which a ban is one.”
Dr Haines said she encouraged Indi residents with opinions on the matter to contact her office.
“People of all ages and backgrounds across Indi have been sharing their different perspectives with me in recent months,” she said.
“I encourage parents, young people, teachers, healthcare workers and others who have an active interest in this issue to contact my office with their views.”
While the government is still working on details of the proposed legislation, it will seek to ban social media from all people under the age of 16, regardless of parental consent.
The ban will apply to TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat and X, and YouTube is likely to be banned as well.
looks forward to a continued partnership with festival organisers, “welcoming their commitment to enriching the community and furthering our region’s reputation as a premier destination for live music and cultural events”.
The government is hoping the social media platforms will take the reasonable steps to block people under 16 from accessing their sites.
MOTOR VECHICLE ENTHUSIAST: Beechworth Old Cranks Motor Club president David McKay with his 1980 Audi
Model SE100 owned since 1987 is on behalf of the club calling for people interested in a sponsorship to help in a mechanical trade.
PHOTO: Coral Cooksley
GOOD TIMES: The Folk Rhythm & Life Festival will be held at the Bilyana property at Eldorado from December 6 to 8 this year.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 To be ready and willing, is to be what (6)
8 Name the capital of Finland (8)
9 Who was a king of England, Denmark and Norway (6)
10 To be free from imperfection, is to be what (8)
11 Name the Chief Justice of NSW 1974-88, Sir Laurence ... (6)
13 To once more express in words, is to do what (8)
16 What are apothecaries more commonly known as (8)
19 Name a particular switch in electronics (6)
22 Which term describes empty language (8)
24 To be impenetrable to light, is to be what (6)
25 What might we call a native of Venice (8)
26 What are currents at variance with the main currents (6)
DOWN
2 To respond in a particular manner, is to do what (5)
3 Which hand-held device controls the cursor of a computer (5)
4 What are operating rooms (8)
5 What does a beggar seek (4)
6 Name a renowned Australian cricketer, Keith Ross ... (6)
Letters
7 Which blades are used to glide on ice (6)
12 To be prevalent, is to be what (4)
14 To put off to a later time is to do what (8)
15 To be in a state of wonder, is to be what (4)
17 Name the Australian painter of watercolours, Jesse ... (6)
18 What is a rag doll called (6)
E-QUATIONS
to
Solve
20 Name a colloquial term for a thousand dollars (5)
21 What is a small, wingless, blood-sucking insect (5)
23 Name a more common term for precipitation (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 FARRIER (a) A litter of pigs (b) A game of chance (c) One who shoes horses
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:
Alphabetical listing (5) Any day of the week (7) Brand new (5) Common beverage (3) Friday (abb) (3) Inclination (5) Inquired (5) Made difficult journey (7) Parent (coll) (3) Word element: six (3)
Notice of Intention to apply for a Licence to Construct Works (Bore) / Take and Use Licence for a Licensable GMW Reference No: BGW0266-24
We W & J Lucas Pty Ltd
Of 121 Fanning Lane Wooragee Victoria 3747
Refer to Vic Roads Map 35 D6
Board director opportunities at Beechworth Health Service
The Minister for Health, the Hon. Mary-Anne Thomas MP, is pleased to invite applications for part time board director positions at Beechworth Health Service. The positions start on 1 July 2025 and appointments are for up to three years.
DECLARATION
Fire Restrictions
CFA and Forest Fire Management Victoria will be introducing fire restrictions (Fire Danger Period and Prohibited Period, respectively) for all private land within the municipalities listed below.
The Fire Restriction Period will commence at 0100 hours on the date shown and unless varied by a subsequent declaration, will end at 0100 hours on 01/05/2025
Municipality Date of Commencement
Indigo Shire Council 18/11/2024
Alpine Shire Council 18/11/2024
Towong Shire Council
18/11/2024
City of Wodonga 18/11/2024
Alpine Resorts Victoria 18/11/2024
Certain restrictions on the lighting of fires are in force during the Fire Restriction Period. Information about fire restrictions within the Country Area of Victoria can be obtained from www.cfa.vic.gov.au, your local CFA District Office or Municipal Fire Prevention Officer Information about fire restrictions within the Fire Protected Area can be obtained from www.ffm.vic.gov.au, or your local Forest Fire Management Victoria Fire District Officer
Jason Heffernan Chief Officer
Chris Hardman Chief Fire Officer
Intend to make application to Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) for a Licence to Construct Works (Bore), and if successful:
- This is our notice for an application of a new Licence to Take and Use Groundwater and we intend to apply to transfer 94.0ML of licensed entitlement from an existing licensee/s on a temporary or permanent basis. The application is for (1) one Bore to be constructed to a proposed depth of 13.6 metres. The water will be used for the purpose of: Irrigation.
Any person able to demonstrate that their interests will be affected by the transfer of this Licence including any intended Groundwater use, is invited to make a formal submission setting out the nature of the impact within 14 days of receipt of this written notification.
To make a submission please read the information available to download from Make a submission about a licence applicationGoulburn Murray Water (g-mwater.com.au) refer to the Groundwater section or contact GMW to arrange a copy to be posted to you. Submissions must be lodged using the GMW template available by either mail or email to, licensingadmin@gmwater.com.au or PO Box 165, TATURA VIC 3616.
These positions provide an exciting opportunity for Victorians to contribute to the health and wellbeing of our communities. Applicants are selected for their capabilities, including personal and professional experience, knowledge, and skills that contribute to the strategic leadership and oversight of health care for the Victorian community.
The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring that government boards reflect the rich diversity of the Victorian community. This includes diverse leadership of the health system that represents the variety of backgrounds and cultures of Victorian communities to enable the vision of achieving the best health, wellbeing and safety for everyone.
To build an empowered and engaged leadership across the health system, our priority areas are people of all ages, First Nations people, people who live with a disability, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, people who identify as LGBTIAQ+, the promotion of gender equality and upholding human rights.
Applicants must be able to demonstrate the capabilities identified in their applications.
Applications close at midnight Sunday 24 November 2024.
Further information about Victorian health service boards and how to apply can be found at https://www.health.vic.gov.au/board-applications
HAVE YOUR SAY
YOUR VOICE, YOUR FUTURE
Help us develop the Council Plan 2025-2029
We’re planning for our next Council Plan, to be adopted in 2025, and we need your input.
The Council Plan outlines the key priorities for Council over the next four years. Your feedback is crucial in helping us decide where to focus our resources and efforts to best support you, our community.
Get Involved
From now until 20 December 2024, we’re calling on all community members to participate in a range of engagement opportunities. The more people we hear from, the more we can ensure that the Council Plan reflects the true needs and aspirations of our community.
Win a $100 Gift Voucher
By participating, you’ll have the chance to win one of three gift vouchers. All you need to do is head to our ENGAGED INDIGO website and complete the survey. www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/yourvoice
Edwards steals the show at start
of men’s club championships
MILESTONE MOMENT: Darren Edwards in the midst of retrieving his ball from the 5th hole at Beechworth Golf Club on Sunday, after hitting the first hole-in-one of his golfing career.
500 men to help shape the future
THE Centre Against Violence (CAV) in Wangaratta is making a bold call to action.
It is inviting 500 men from across the region to come together in Wangaratta next week and be part of a movement that will shape future generations of good men, breaking the cycles of violence and creating hope.
So far, more than 100 men have already registered, including teachers, coaches, businesspeople, students, athletes, police, and many others, all eager to learn, grow, and stand alongside their community.
The free event, featuring internationally renowned speaker and advocate Matt Brown, is being held from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.
Jaime Chubb, CEO of CAV, said they’re calling out for 500 men “because we know the power of collective action”.
“This is more than just a gathering; it’s a movement aimed at equipping men with the tools they need to lead with integrity, respect and kindness in every part of their lives,” she said.
“From family homes to sporting fields and workplaces, men are being called upon to help create a community where respect is the
norm and violence has no place.
“This event is not just for those impacted by violence, but for those who want to be part of the solution.”
Mr Brown, co-founder of She Is Not Your Rehab, said he is excited to be touring Australia and engaging with communities such as Wangaratta about the critical issue of family harm prevention.
“These events are about more than just raising awareness - it’s about equipping individuals and families with the tools to break cycles of trauma to foster healing,” he said.
Mr Brown’s journey from surviving family violence and childhood trauma to becoming one of the most influential voices in the global anti-violence movement is extraordinary.
His message isn’t about blame or shame; it’s about hope and healing, about turning vulnerability into strength.
Alongside his wife Sarah, he has ignited a global conversation about redefining masculinity, healing trauma, and making family violence prevention everyone’s responsibility.
Ms Chubb said the event offers a moment for men to stand up, not just as individuals, but as a force for
By DYLAN POOL
IT was a busy day last Sunday out on course.
With plenty of social golfers and a great field of 19 players for the first round of the Men’s Club Championships.
Along with Sunday being the first round of Championships, we also held our 2024 Medal of Medals and the Tony Greenhill Memorial Trophy.
Tony was a long time member and Greenkeeper of the Beechworth Golf Club and also a life member.
We also thank the Greenhill family who continue to sponsor the trophies for both the men and women.
First things first, congratulations to Darren Edwards who had a hole-in-one on the 165 metre 5th hole.
This is Darren’s first hole in one after many years of trying.
In the stroke event Jacob Howard had the round of his life recording a great score of four over off the
stick to win with 72/11/61.
Darren Edwards was close behind in second place with a great two under par score off the stick for 66/3/63.
There was a three way countback for third place on 65 nett.
Phil Pelgrim was the lucky winner of that countback with 85/20/65.
Relegated to fourth was Zane Howard with 86/21/65, and Darren McCormick was fifth with 76/11/65.
Others to play to their handicap or better (and there were 11 in the field to do so) were
Vaughan Saunders 68/2/66, Stuart McIntosh 86/19/67, Dylan Pool 69/2/67, Willem Love 73/6/67, Josh Carr 73/5/68 and Jamie Dolny 82/14/68.
Zane Howard was crowned the 2024 Medal of Medalist with his 65 nett, Willem Love was runner up with his 67.
Nearest the pins went to Dylan Pool on the 3rd, Darren Edwards on the 5th (hole-inone), Jamie Dolny on the 7th, Jacob Howard on the 10th and
change in their communities.
“We believe in the power of good men, but we need them to do more than just be good – we need them to act,” she said.
CAV is urging men from all walks of life – fathers, brothers, friends – to join them in creating a future where respect, empathy, and kindness are at the heart of everything we do.
To book your seat for the event visit: https://events. humanitix.com/menagainst-violence-champions-for-change.
Darren McCormick on the 17th.
Leaderboard after round one in each grade are as follows.
A grade.
Darren Edwards 66, Vaughan Saunders 68, Dylan Pool 69, Willem Love 73, Josh Carr 73, Jarryd Pritchard 74. B grade.
Jacob Howard 72, Darren McCormick 76, Jamie Dolny 82, Dean Howard 83, Andy Croome 84, Graeme Cordy 85, Dave Clark 90.
C grade.
Phil Pelgrim 85, Stuart McIntosh 86, Zane Howard 86, Peter Smith 89, Dave Lang 92, Rod Shaw 94.
The next round is in two Sundays time on November 24.
This Sunday coming is the club’s AGM.
Please could all members make an effort to attend. 4:30pm tee time with afternoon tea included.
Two options for golf. 18 holes at 12 noon or nine holes at 2:30pm.
Sunday, November 24
FRIENDS OF THE STANLEY MUSEUM: 10am. Bicentenary of Hume and Hovell at the Hume and Hovell Cairn and afterwards see ‘They Passed This Way’ exhibition at the Stanley Athenaeum. Morning tea served. $5 donation. Enquiries: Chris at stanleyathenaeum@gmail.com or 0408 606 922. Tuesday, November 26
CARER GATEWAY PROGRAM: 10am to 12noon. Connecting carers in Beechworth and surrounds. First introduction session. Includes info about Carer Gateway, morning tea and some relaxation exercises. Discussions on topics people would like to include at a Carers Connect group. Being held at Quercus Beechworth, 30 Ford Street. Register by email at CarerGatewayEnquiries@ vt.uniting.org.
IF you have an event you’d like added to this calendar, please email edit.omadvertiser@nemedia.com.au
A VOICE TO BE HEARD: Matt Brown will be the keynote speaker at the Wangaratta men against violence vigil on November 18.
Beechworth tumble to first loss
Beechworth’s A grade was bowled out for just 46 against Rovers United Bruck last Saturday
BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au
BATS went cold for Beechworth’s A grade side on Saturday at Baarmutha Park as they suffered their first loss of the 2024/25 season.
Chasing Rovers United Bruck’s 189 made the previous week, the Wanderers could only muster 46 in reply, bowled out within 38 overs.
After snaring the prized wicket of Kayde Surrey for a second-ball duck last weekend, Hawks skipper Paddy McNamara threw the ball to import Daniel Jones (3/12), who tied down the batters and snared two vital top order poles cheaply.
Jones trapped Clancy Ellett in front LBW for just 10 from 45 balls, before snaring the biggest scalp of the innings with Brenton Surrey for eight off 43.
Their tails up, Jeremy Wilson came on and spun a web around the Wanderers’ middle and lower order, finishing with handy figures of 4/7 from 6.3 overs.
Beechworth were sent in to bat again following the end of their first innings and faired much better.
While Wilson was again the danger man, taking another three wickets to take his match figures to 7/28, opener Ellett led an honourable resistance as he notched up his maiden halfcentury of the season.
Ellett would end the innings unbeaten as Beechworth ended the match on 4/101.
The A grade Wanderers will have their second bye of the season and the weekend off for the next two weeks as the two-day competition continues.
EFFORT: Beechworth’s A grade will be given the next two weeks to regroup after being bowled out for 46 last
Beechworth’s B grade will also have the bye this weekend after a similarly off day with the bat with the bat at Greta last weekend, going down by six wickets.
The travelling Wanderers chose to bat first and were given a nice start by under 16s centurion Rama Schultz at the top of the order, caught for 15.
Outside of Brendan Fitzpatrick’s 19 and Lachlan Fitzpatrick’s 10, the rest of the batting order were outclassed as they were bowled out for 73.
Despite an early wicket, Greta made a comfortable chase of the total behind captain Mick Barnard’s 38 not out and reached the
total in 17 overs.
Young Schultz was the pick of the bowlers, taking 2/20.
Compared to their compatriots, Beechworth’s C grade were on the other hand of a low total, rolling through Rutherglen for 55 at Stanley to win by nine wickets.
Dean Fitzpatrick was in a
league of his own with the ball taking 4/1 off four overs, rattling the stumps with all four wickets as Beechworth inflicted six ducks on the Rutherglen scorecard.
Austen Fendyk led the chase at the top, finishing with 32 not out.
C grade will be the only senior team in action this
week as they take on Yarrawonga-Mulwala tomorrow while the under 14 boys will occupy Baarmutha Park in their two day match against the Lakers.
The under 12s will face Ovens Valley in Myrtleford on Friday while the under 14 girls will be taking on Benalla.
