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BEECHWORTH - CHILTERN - RUTHERGLEN - STANLEY - YACKANDANDAH Friday, May 16, 2025

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INSIDE

Indigo Interview

TOP PRIZE Beechworth Men’s Shed members Graham Lade (left), Cliff Cousins, Chris Brett (secretary) and Simon Schanknecht with a cubby house, valued at $2100, built for the men’s shed’s upcoming fundraising raffle.

Page 4

‘Bushies down Roos

■ Full story page 7

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

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Design released for new town Ambulance Station Beginning of works imminent as Indigo’s ambulance response times continue to fall below par

THE state government has unveiled the designs for the new state-of-the-art Beechworth Ambulance Station in the wake of Indigo Shire’s declining paramedic response times to urgent incidents within the statewide benchmark of 15 minutes.

Minister for Health Infrastructure Melissa Horne revealed the designs on

two rest and recline areas, a kitchen, training room, bzimmermann@ longer-term accommodation nemedia.com.au and secure staff car parking for paramedics.

Member for Northern Wednesday for the multiVictoria Jaclyn Symes million-dollar branch, which will replace the current station said it was fantastic that hardworking Beechworth situated on Frederick Street. paramedics will have a new The state-of-the-art twofit-for-purpose base to call storey facility will feature a three-bay ambulance garage, home in the near future.

BY BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

“The people of Beechworth know just how important emergency crews are in times of crisis,” she said.

To ensure there is no disruption to emergency services while the new station is being built, local paramedics will temporarily operate from the former medical centre on Warner Road.

While a construction date was not confirmed, a state government spokesperson said a start on the build was imminent and would get underway once the existing station is demolished.

Once complete, this brand new ambulance branch will support more paramedics already on the road in Beechworth to help meet

growing demand in the region.

Coincidentally, the announcement came as new quarterly Ambulance Victoria response time data showed the Indigo Shire as one of the worst performing areas in the state in responding to urgent emergency within the benchmark of 15 minutes.

■ Continued page 2

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Motorbike riders to hit town with warm clothing donations

By CORAL COOKSLEY

FIRST WOMAN: Liberal Party leader Sussan Ley was voted in by party colleagues 29-25 over Angus Taylor on Tuesday.

Ley voted in as first female Liberal leader

By STEVE KELLY SUSSAN Ley is the first woman to lead the Liberal Party following a partyroom vote 29-25 over colleague and shadow treasurer Angus Taylor.

The 63-year-old MP for Farrer, in announcing her candidacy for the leadership, said it was clear the party “got it wrong” and Australia expects a change in direction and a fresh approach.

Ted O’Brien will take on the role of deputy party leader.

Meanwhile, the Nationals leader David Littleproud will remain as party leader after a challenge by Matt Canavan on Monday.

“I am proud of my legacy as leader over the last three years, championing the opposition to the Voice, and fighting for nuclear energy and supermarket divestiture powers,” Mr Littleproud said.

HEADS are likely to turn when Beechworth’s Ford Street is filled with the rumble of motorbikes on Sunday, 25 May as riders prepare to deliver a swathe of warm clothing apparel to the Salvation Army.

The train of motorbikes will be for this year’s annual Jacket and Blanket run.

The run originally organised

by Yackandandah’s Trevor Botting and Kurt Dissegna from Bright celebrates a decade of giving this year by generous hearted people from around the region.

Motor bike riders from across the North East have joined in since then to support the cause in helping those in need to keep snug and warm throughout chilly winters.

Salvation Army major Pauline Middleton said items are given to people who may be homeless or going into a homeless situation or fleeing from domestic violence.

Other circumstances might be from job loss, victims of a house fire or personal tragedies.

“It’s amazing to have this support in collaboration with community groups in in the region,” she said.

Major Middleton said generosity had extended to cash donations too.

She said this is also the time for

GRATEFUL: Salvation Army major Pauline Middleton and member Gail Boyd are looking forward to receiving warm apparels of clothing and blankets to be distributed to people in need.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley the Red Shield Appeal with funds raised helping people in need.

“Money raised doesn’t stay in Melbourne and this comes back to our region across Alpine and Indigo shires,” she said.

“Sometimes we also receive referrals to support families coming out of domestic violence and that certainly has increased around the region.

Among assistance given, the Salvation Army helps with food

and petrol vouchers as well.

If people would like to donate clothing or blankets to the Jacket and Blanket run and non-perishable goods too – collections can be arranged by contacting Trevor on 0434 811 045 or Nigel Horne on 0407 058 706.

Albury Wodonga riders meet at Blind Freddie’s Café at 8.30am to depart for Ovens, Wangaratta riders meet at APCO at 8.45am for a 9.15am departure for Ovens and

all riders gather at Happy Valley Hotel in Ovens from 10am to depart at 10.30am for Beechworth.

Red Shield Appeal donations are being taken by Salvation Army volunteers in Beechworth on Monday, 19 May at 8am outside Beechworth NewsXpress, Saturday, 24 May at 8am outside Yackandandah Foodworks and then from Monday, 26 to 31 May at 8am at Beechworth NewsXpress.

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Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.

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YOUR OVENS AND MURRAY TEAM COMING SOON: An artist’s impression of the new two-storey Beechworth Ambulance Station was released on Wednesday, with works to begin on the Frederick Street site in the coming weeks.

Design released for new Beechworth Ambulance Station Correspondent Coral Cooksley

Editorial co-ordinator Bailey Zimmermann

Advertising Sales 5723 0100 sales@nemedia.com.au

Follow us www.omadvertiser.com.au Member

■ From front page

From 1 January to 31 March this year, just 21.8 per cent of the shire’s 170 urgent emergency incidents were reached within the 15-minute time frame, averaging 23 minutes and 43 seconds upon arrival.

The shire’s average response time dropped by 53 seconds compared to the previous quarter, but Indigo was the only shire in the state along with the Towong Shire (23.1pc) to have responses

within 15 minutes fall below a 25 per cent rate.

Ambulance Victoria aims to respond to 85 per cent of urgent code one incidents within 15 minutes.

Hume regional director, Narelle Capp, said there was more work to do to improve on response times.

“We continue to work with our partners to ensure our paramedics and first responders are

dispatched to the right patient at the right time, and that our patients are connected with the right care to meet their needs,” she said.

“Our expert triage service 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.

“From January to March,

43,858 people who did not need an emergency ambulance were instead connected to more appropriate care by paramedics and nurses in triage services.”

The new Beechworth Ambulance Branch is being delivered as part of the state government’s ongoing investment in ambulance infrastructure, with more than $280 million committed since 2015 to upgrade and rebuild branches across the state.

THE ADVERTISER, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 3

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COMMUNITY RALLIES FOR ANZAC APPEAL

By CORAL COOKSLEY

COMMITTED: Local fundraising volunteer Jack Mannix with his grandfather and RSL member Ian Daly outside Beechworth Bakery selling tokens for the ANZAC appeal.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

VOLUNTEERS for the Beechworth RSL Sub Branch helped raise $13,000 from this year’s ANZAC token appeal in the lead up to ANZAC Day. Appeals officer Sally Hayden said the sub-branch has a proud history of raising funds for veterans from ANZAC and Poppy Appeals.

“I’m buoyed by the resurgence of interest from our youth with their passion and enthusiasm,” she said.

Ms Hayden commended young volunteers Jack Mannix, brothers Jackson and Hunter Iaria and as well new recruits four-year-old Adrian Iaria, and Hudson Browne for their good

manners and understanding of the true ANZAC spirit.

“They bring so much joy to both our older volunteers and our customers,” she said.

Ms Hayden, who is also Beechworth Correctional Centre’s operations manager, said more than $300 was also raised at the centre for the appeal.

RSL sub-branch president John Eldrid said all funds raised from the ANZAC Appeal are given to ANZAC house with half returned to invest in veterans’ welfare.

“They have brought the freedom that we have today and we’re a lucky country,” he said.

“It’s important to provide assistance to veterans in need such as for home

maintenance, taking them to medical appointments and helping them out.

“It’s everyday things especially as they’re getting older and even taking them shopping.

“That’s what we do for our veterans.”

Ms Hayden said a special thanks goes to all volunteers, the community and the Beechworth RSL Sub Branch committee.

“I’m looking forward to the Poppy Appeal in late October and early November this year,” she said.

“I’m also looking for a passionate volunteer with spare time to join me for this appeal with a view to take over as appeals officer next year.”

Telstra outage left Beechworth businesses, households scrambling for online service

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN A SEVEN and a half hour Telstra outage put Beechworth back in time on Monday with multiple businesses scrambling to adjust or closing altogether for the day.

The telecommunication service reported the outage around 10am impacting the town’s NBN, landline, internet and mobile phone services.

Telstra regional general manager Jenny Gray said a fibre optic cable was damaged by a third-party operator in Beechworth on Monday morning.

“Our team on the ground worked to repair the damage as quickly as possible and we thank everyone for their patience,” she said.

“To avoid property damage, service disruptions, injury or costly fines it is important to call Dial Before You Dig on 1100 prior to com-

mencing any excavation works.”

Businesses including Bendigo Bank Beechworth, were forced to close with no internet access, while others like Bridge Road Brewers found a way to stay open.

Bridge Road Brewers marketing manager Nathan Fenton said some quick thinking to mobile hotspot their EFTPOS to an Optus service allowed them to stay open on Monday as they operat-

ed while the phones were down.

“We thought from a community service perspective there were still holiday makers in town and there’s locals who still want to be able to eat out and we figured there would be a lot of businesses who would have had to close,” he said.

“We felt a bit of responsibility there to try and stay open and keep offering our service to the community.

“You don’t want to have to resort

to the supermarket and get something frozen so if we could make sure to keep running that was always going to be our priority.”

Services were restored on Monday night, after initially indicating a scheduled restoration on Tuesday morning.

Mr Fenton said the business may look at storing a 4G router with an Optus card as a back-up in case an outage occurs in the area again.

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Celebrating an early Mother’s Day

By CORAL COOKSLEY BEECHWORTH Montessori School held a scrumptious morning tea with scones, jam and cream last Thursday for an early Mother’s Day celebration in the lead up to the special Sunday event.

Delighted Montessori mum Karla Florence said the morning had been a great chance for her to see the work of her children Rafael (7) and Ava (10).

SUPPORTER: BEECHWORTH’S MARK ROACH ENJOYS HIS VOLUNTARY WORK ON A COMMITTEE AT A LOCAL PRIMARY SCHOOL AND AS A BOARD OF MEMBER A COMMUNITY BANK.

“I had a little bracelet made for me too,” she said.

“It was a nice opportunity to catch up with other mothers as well.”

Mum Tristy Sheridan and a teacher at Montessori said it was a wonderful community event.

“We chatted to each other and it’s nice to be part of the school,” she said.

“My daughter Indi aged 10 showed me her work and read me a story.”

Top move to Beechworth CELEBRATED: Seven-year-old Beechworth Montessori School student Rafael Florence proudly shows his mum Karla his work at last Thursday’s early Mother’s Day celebration at the school.

ENJOYED: Ten-year-old Indi Sheridan showed her work to mum Tristy at last Thursday’s early Mother’s Day celebration at the school.

PHOTOS: Beechworth Montessori School

MARK Roach was born in Plymouth, a seaside city down in England’s southwest.

In 2020, after several years working in Sydney, Mark and his wife felt they wanted a healthier environment for their two young daughters and to be closer to his wife’s family who live in Bright.

After just one visit, the couple took a chance on Beechworth and have never looked back.

What do you do workwise?

I work as an actuary for a large international insurer.

Actuaries play an important role in helping insurers manage future risks and protect policyholders.

In my role, I’m responsible for the computer models we run to see how our business may look in the future.

What brought you to your role/career?

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Mark Roach At school, I always loved maths.

This led to my reading pure mathematics at university and subsequently joining a regional insurer to train as an actuary.

My timing was perfect, as the advances in technology at that time led to me taking a role in the modelling team, allowing me to combine both maths and my other interest in computer coding.

What do you love about your work?

No two days are the same – there’s always a fresh puzzle to solve.

It could be anything from explaining some odd numbers to building a new computer model.

I also love working with the next generation of actuaries coming through, seeing their enthusiasm and that spark of excitement when new ideas connect.

What do you do in the community?

I currently volunteer on the finance committee at the

local primary school.

I’ve also recently joined the board of a local community bank, where local volunteers support the branch and direct funds back into the region.

I’m only new to this role, but I’ve been impressed by the team’s dedication to supporting the community.

Is there an important community issue that you think needs addressing?

I feel that kids are our top priority – so making sure our local schools can provide access to good quality education and learning opportunities close to home.

What would you do to solve or improve that situation?

Sitting on the school finance committee has shown me how much our schools accomplish with limited resources.

I’d love to see governments invest more seriously in regional education – our children deserve the same opportunities as their city counterparts.

What do you see as one of the most important current world issues?

I worry about young people’s mental health in this age of constant social media and diminishing social connection.

Beechworth offers some shelter from this trend – kids here still seem to enjoy something closer to the free-range childhoods I remember, and I feel that this is priceless.

If the person you would most like to meet or knew came to Indigo Shire, who would that be, what would you show them, and why?

My dad, without question.

He passed away shortly after we moved to Beechworth and unfortunately never got to visit.

He would have enjoyed the local countryside, historic buildings and friendly community.

He’d also have loved to see his grandchildren growing up somewhere so beautiful and welcoming.

What book are you reading?

I recently finished “The Anxious Generation”

by Jonathan Haidt – a fascinating look at why young people’s mental health is declining, connecting the dots between social media, smartphones, and the disappearance of unstructured play.

I found this a huge eyeopener reminding me of our responsibility to raise independent and confident kids.

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THE ADVERTISER, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 5

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Artist talk at Mayday Hills next Wednesday

By CORAL COOKSLEY A CHANCE discovery of Mayday Hills Art Society while on a road trip has led to an artist, writer and publisher invited to be an artist in residence sharing her skills and knowledge.

Canberra-based Bobby Graham has creatively explored storytelling through her narrative art combining travel since 2016.

In Beechworth for two weeks, Ms Graham plans to capture by way of sketching on location as much as she can around town.

“It could be a café or in front of one of the lovely old historic buildings, and I just sketch it in my own style,” she said.

“My aim is to fill a concertina rag paper sketchbook on both sides.

“I use gouache, watercolour, coloured inks and pen.”

Ms Graham, a member of Urban Sketches in Canberra, said Urban Sketches is an international organisation with chapters in many cities around the world with artists sitting on location.

The artist said she has invited people to join her on Sunday for a two hour outside session to sketch what can be seen.

At the end of the session artworks will be laid out on the ground - called a throwdown, photographed with the group then posted on Facebook to

share around the world.

“It’s fabulous and it’s free,” she said.

“It gets you out there, looking at places, observing and meeting other people, and learning about art.

“It’s quick and easy sketching and I have been doing this more or less full time since I left my job at the end of June last year.”

Ms Graham said the only artwork she had undertaken had been in art classes at school.

“I also draw on my iPad using a tool called Procreate - an app designed and developed in Tasmania and has taken the drawing world by storm,” she said.

“I do a lot of digital art and I teach digital art as well.”

Ms Graham said she plans to photograph all images with extended captions added and produce as a digital book.

Mayday Hills Art Society’s cofounder Christine Cansfield-Smith is thrilled the artist will be sketching Beechworth through the Art Society.

“She will also be giving a talk to people about her art bringing another dimension,” she said.

Ms Graham said a valuable exchange of ideas had taken place with other artists while in residence.

“It’s nice to learn from other artists and see what they do, and then to teach them some of the things that I do,” she said.

Friday, 16 May (tonight), Saturday, 17 May and Sunday, 18 May BEECHWORTH THEATRE COMPANY Last performances this weekend. Farcical murder mystery is set to hook audiences with lots of laughs and guessing when Beechworth Theatre Company (BTC) performs ‘Clue.’ The play Clue originated from the well-known murder mystery board game Cluedo and is adapted from the 1985 film, Clue.

Tonight’s performance 7.30pm to 10pm, Saturdays from 4.30pm to 7.30pm, and Sunday from 2pm to 5.30pm.

For tickets visit www. stickytickets.com.au/ itidl/clue_on_stage. aspx or sold at the door unless sold out prior

CREATIVE: Artist in residence Bobby Graham (left) with her sketchbook with Mayday Hills Art Society co-founder Christine-Cansfield Smith.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley Her talk ‘Sketching Beechworth’ will be held in the Art Society’s downstairs gallery located at Kurrajong Way next Wednesday, 21 May with a 5pm start.

Everyone is welcome with RSVPs needed by Tuesday, 20 May by

emailing bibart@bigpond.com.

Drinks and nibbles with entry by gold coin donation.

For information about this Sunday’s session contact Christine on 0412 126 219.

IF you have an event you’d like added to this calendar, please email edit. omadvertiser@ nemedia.com.au

Page 6 - THE ADVERTISER, Friday, May 16, 2025

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Amy’s humanities challenge rewarded

By CORAL COOKSLEY A FIRST-time Beechworth Secondary College humanities prize won by a student with a love of the discipline recently caught the ears of a former Independent federal Member for Indi.

Year 10 student Amy Schilling scooped the award at the end of last year at the school’s presentation night after excelling in three challenges over 12 months.

Challenges were writing a 1000-word essay above the year level, compete in a school public debating event and memorise every world capital.

Humanities teacher Finn Pedersen said former MP Cathy McGowan recently dropped into the school to present Amy with a copy of her book ‘Cathy goes to Canberra’.

“Ms McGowan wanted to meet Amy and was proud to hear about the work she

had done for the community too,” he said.

Among community contributions, Amy completed a 40km charity walk last year from Beechworth to Wangaratta raising $1290 for children facing famine.

Amy also volunteers for the Salvation Army in Beechworth and is an active member of 1st Scouts Beechworth where she has been a leader for Joeys while also helping to raise funds for the local Red Cross branch.

“Amy is always looking for opportunities to volunteer if it means helping the community,” Mr Pedersen said.

Mr Pedersen also said the humanities prize gives students a chance to focus on a school value of aspiration.

He said the humanities prize is open to any student from year seven to year 12.

History and legal studies are Amy’s two favourite subjects in humanities.

With a passion for history, she wrote her winning essay around women in World War II. “I worked on pretty much every aspect of women in the war - what happened to women when they stayed at home to being nurses,” she said.

“I just thought it was important to talk about because women were overlooked during World War II.” Amy said she’s planning to continue with humanity subjects next year by taking up sociology and history.

With a love of helping people, Amy said she has aimed to pursue a humanities related career in the defence force.

Mr Pedersen said the Year 10 student wants to help not only those in need but also her country.

Ms McGowan said leadership programs in Canberra offered to regional students would be an excellent opportunity for Amy.

REWARDED: Year 10 student Amy Schilling holds a copy of her book ‘Cathy goes to Canberra,’ with Humanities teacher Finn Pedersen at the college.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Councillors – please reply THE conduct of council meetings in Indigo Shire is governed generally by councils governance rules passed by council in July, 2024 and due for review in 2026.

At every scheduled meeting of council there is an open forum agenda item, the conduct of which is governed by section 35 of those rules.

In it’s opening paragraph section 35 states: “Open forum allows for questions to be asked of council….”

The forum provides residents with the opportunity to make councillors aware of community issues as well as seek information on council actions on specific problems or incidents and on council policies.

It also provides opportunity for residents to monitor the effectiveness of council and councils oversight of the administration.

L AL R R OU O F Y OF

However, questions asked have - without exception in the life of this council and with few exceptions during the four year tenure of the previous council, been referred by the mayor to the CEO and been answered by him.

The CEO is not a member of council.

My concern is that having asked a question of council, why is the question most often referred to the administration and answered by the CEO with no contribution from any councillor.

Councils reluctance to answer questions and engage with residents is becoming a defining characteristic of this council.

If the open forum is about asking questions of councillors,

it should also be about having councillors answer them.

Council: we expect better - we deserve better.

Geoffrey Palmer, Beechworth

Share your bowel screening story BOWEL cancer is the second biggest cause of cancer death in Australia.

But if detected early, more than 90 per cent of bowel cancers can be successfully treated.

Bowel screening is one of the most effective ways to detect the early signs of bowel cancer, but unfortunately only 42.6 per cent of eligible Victorians are participating in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

LETTERS to the editor must be signed with the full name, address and contact telephone number of the author provided. Letters under 250 words are preferred and we reserve the right to edit letters to fit available space.Nom de plumes will only be published at the editor’s discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by the Ovens and Murray Advertiser.

Email edit.omadvertiser@nemedia.com.au Fax 03 5721 9447 Post Ovens & Murray Advertiser, North East Media 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta, Vic 3677

Australians aged 45-74 are eligible to do a free bowel screening test every two years through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

People aged 50-74 get the bowel screening kit in the mail every two years, while people aged 45-49 can request their first bowel screening kit through the National Cancer Screening Register.

Since 2017, Cancer Council Victoria has led statewide campaigns to encourage Victorians to participate in bowel screening.

Our research shows that having a real person’s story at the heart of our campaigns encourages others to do their bowel screening test and can start important conversations between loved ones about the importance of screening.

That’s why we’re looking for individuals new to share their bowel screening story in 2025.

Bowel cancer survivor Laurie shared his cancer screening story with us in 2023 as part of a statewide bowel screening awareness campaign.

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Laurie talked about how doing the bowel screening test saved his life, ensuring he could be around for important everyday moments with family and friends.

Laurie’s story and the 2023 campaign led to more than 25,000 bowel screening tests being completed.

It is estimated this will help save an estimated 115 Victorians lives over the next 40 years.

There are many ways your story could encourage Victorians to prioritise bowel screening, including us sharing your story on our social channels or website or to your local media outlet.

If you have a bowel cancer story, we’d like to hear it.

Your story could help raise awareness about the importance of doing bowel screening and encourage others to participate through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

Do you want to make a difference and help save lives? Head to cancervic.org. au/screening-story for more information.

Kate Broun, Cancer Council Victoria

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THE ADVERTISER, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 7

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Cubby house first prize in raffle

By CORAL COOKSLEY A CUBBY house is up for grabs as first prize in a raffle for a Beechworth Men’s Shed fundraiser.

President Graham Lade said funds raised for the cubby built by some shed members will help to upgrade machinery for their ongoing main fundraiser, firewood kindling.

“We want to be more efficient with the kindling which is our main fundraiser,” he said.

Money raised from more than 700 bags of kindling produced every year, including other fundraising activities, goes back into the community as well as into equipment for community projects.

“We’ve received great support from the town from businesses sponsoring the raffle with two other prizes as well as helping us with printed raffle tickets,” he said.

The cubby with tables and chairs and a little kitchen set up is valued at $2100, with the second prize a night’s accommodation for two people at the Beechworth Motor Inn. Third prize is a Karcher WD3 wet and dry vacuum cleaner donated by Beechworth Mitre 10 while the fourth prize is a handcrafted

WORK IN PROGRESS: Beechworth Men’s Shed members Graham Lade (left), Brian Thornton (treasurer), Cliff Cousins and Simon Schanknecht show the new extension underway for extra storage space.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley chopping board made by the men’s shed.

Mr Lade said the raffle will be drawn on Wednesday, 4 June with the cubby delivered within 100km from Beechworth.

Raffle tickets have been distributed around town to various organisations including local primary schools and the local newsagent has provided some space for the men’s shed members to sell

them as well.

Mr Lade said the men’s sheds from the North East region are together exploring wider activities in the future beyond woodworking and metal work for members.

“Quite a few people still working would like to like to use shed facilities too, and from the start of June we’re opening up between 6pm and 9pm on Wednesday nights,” he said.

“We will trial and to see how it goes.”

With the main purpose of the men’s shed being mental health and well-being of members, Mr Lade said the shed was a place where men feel comfortable in visiting, have a chat or want to make something.

A program for year five and six students from a local primary school with once-aweek visits gave shed members a chance to pass on their craft skills and knowledge to the youngsters.

“There’s great enthusiasm from the students we’re looking at working with other schools as well in the future,” Mr Lade said.

A recent community project has been the stage set up with doors for the local production of ‘Clue’ by Beechworth Theatre Company.

A shed extension is underway to cater for extra space needed for storage too such as fire wood kindling from a grant received with more funds needed too.

“We’re open Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 9am to 12pm,” Mr Lade said.

For more information about the shed or raffles tickets ring 0483 220 262, email b e e c hw o r t h m e n s s h e d @ gmail.com or drop into the Shed at the rear of Kibell Lane off Sydney Road.

Page 8 - THE ADVERTISER, Friday, May 16, 2025

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International Nurses Day celebrated at Beechworth

By CORAL COOKSLEY

BEECHWORTH Health Service (BHS) marked International Nurses Day celebrated around the world every year on 12 May with an afternoon tea for staff on Monday.

For Eldorado’s Rhonda Lee, a registered nurse (RN) for 44 years, the profession makes a difference to people’s lives.

“I remember seeing how nurses cared for my cousin and the difference that they made, and I thought that’s what I want to do,” she said.

Rhonda working with BHS for the last three years said she has been fortunate with a diverse working career in both public and private health care in various specialisation areas including operating theatre, general paediatrics and midwifery.

The RN said she has had covered many areas over her career with a love district nursing too and has been a matron as well as a clinical services director.

“It’s a great career and although I haven’t worked overseas it’s a portable one where you can work around the world,” she said.

“A lot of my friends have and you can also map your career around where your family lives.

“We have a passion for people.”

Rhonda said she now has a chance to give back as a nurse educator as well as a student and graduate coordinator.

PEOPLE PASSION: Bachelor Nursing students Abby Fielder (left) and Ella Stephens with RN and nurse educator Rhonda Lee (middle) at the Beechworth Health Service celebration for International Nurses Day on Monday.

PHOTO: Gabriella Tange “We have some great students and it’s heartwarming to see them blossom and learning in their own careers,” she said.

“I also look after non-clinical services too because we’re a small hospital.

“I’d be a nurse all over again.”

Nursing student Ella Stephens from Wangaratta said she had been influenced by her mum who is a nurse.

The former Wangaratta High School student said she is studying her Bachelor of Nursing at La Trobe

University travelling to the Wodonga campus.

“I have a four-week placement at BHS as a second year nursing student,” she said.

Ella said as a nurse she wanted to help people in their recovery journey with emotional support for them too.

“I have an open mind for my career and initially wanted to undertake a double degree with midwifery as well,” she said.

“The degree was only offered at

the Bendigo campus, and I wasn’t in a position to relocate, so I started with Bachelor of Nursing.

“There’s around 800 hours of clinical placement over three years and I may find that I like working in an emergency department or acute care and prefer that type of work rather than choosing midwifery.

“I’m open to everything and anything for my nursing career.

“I’ve only been here for a week now, and you can see the teamwork.”

Watch what you burn off: EPA AS the weather cools and conditions for burn offs in regional areas improve, EPA Victoria is alerting the agricultural sector in particular, not to mix their prunings and felled timber with other forms of waste.

“We issued several reminders last year after receiving reports of farms, orchards and vineyards mixing their legitimate burn off materials with waste like treated timbers, plastics and other common farm waste that should have gone to a licensed landfill or recycling facility,” EPA regional operations director Martha-Rose Loughnane said.

“Disposal of waste by burning is illegal.

“Common farm waste, like treated pine posts, agricultural plastics, hessian, concrete, metal, waste tyres and mattresses, must be disposed of lawfully and at a place that is licensed to accept it.”

EPA has a handy guide available from its website on farm waste management – visit epa. vic.gov.au/about-epa/publications/iwrg641-1.

“Everyone has a duty to protect the environment,” Ms Loughnane said.

Learn what can and can’t be burnt from EPA’s farm waste guide to avoid being a nuisance to your neighbours, causing a hazard to the environment or getting a fine from EPA. You can report pollution to EPA’s 24 hour pollution hotline at 1300 372 842 or online at epa. vic.gov.au/report-pollution.

THE ADVERTISER, Friday, May 16, 2025 - Page 9

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Beechworth grind out crucial win

By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN

HOW IS THAT: Degan Dolny celebrates his goal last weekend as the Bushrangers ran out winners over Yackandandah.

PHOTO: Beechworth FNC

BEECHWORTH’s senior footballers came through with a crucial four points against the struggling reigning premiers Yackandandah last weekend, sneaking home by eight points.

A tough slog in the first half at Baarmutha Park opened up in the third quarter as the Bushrangers made a strong surge, but allowed a couple of goals late to go into the last change up by a goal.

Both teams once again struggled to break through

in a tense final stanza, with the Bushrangers doing just enough to win 9.10 (64) to 8.8 (56).

Cam Fendyk starred with three goals and was well supported up forward by Austen Fendyk, while Kayde Surrey, Hamish Malsem, and Hayden Cooper all delivered standout performances.

The Bushrangers sit comfortably in second, equal with their opponent this week in Barnawartha at five wins and one loss, while the Roos sit at 1-5 in their premiership defence.

Across the fence, Beechworth’s A graders played out another thriller with the Roos, this time Yackandandah getting over the line by a solitary goal.

Falling behind by eight goals going into the last quarter, Beechworth put up an almighty fight to restrict Yackandandah to just seven goals in the final 15 minutes, but it was just enough to edge out the Bushrangers 42-43.

Earlier on the court Danielle Jansen was given a guard of honour as she laced

them up for her 200th senior game in the B grade.

Following the day the club hosted AFL legend Kevin Sheedy in front of a packed clubrooms as Sheedy shared riveting insights and stories from his time in the game at the top level.

The club also held a successful Mother’s Day event with Yackandandah which included afternoon tea and fantastic raffle prizes.

You can catch Beechworth in action at the Barnawartha Recreation Reserve from 9am Saturday.

Women’s club championships get underway

By DYLAN POOL LAST Wednesday the women played their first round of the Beechworth Golf Club championships.

Gail Smith easily won the daily event with 69 nett of a 17 handicap.

Runner up was Nada Guyatt (25) with 72 nett.

Everyone else were all in the 70s.

Coral Ward on the 7th and Hollie Goodwin (17th) won the nearest the pins.

Gail Smith leads the race for the championships on 86, Hollie Goodwin is only one shot behind on 87 and Glenda Marshall sits in third with 92.

Also on Thursday a group of our members travelled to Myrtleford for their women’s bowl.

By the looks from the result Nada Guyatt was the only winner of note taking home a nearest the pin.

Congratulations to Darren Edwards who won the scratch event at Myrtleford in their tournament on Saturday.

On Sunday we played a 4Ball better ball (two person).

The winners were Rod Shaw (19) and Dylan Pool (2) with 42 points on a countback from Jackson Wells (18) and Andy Croome (12) 42.

Next were George Ward

(21) and Jamie Dolny (13) 38.

Jamie cleaned up the nearest the pins winning three of them, on the 3rd, 10th and 17th.

Jackson Wells also claimed one on the 7th.

Next Sunday we have at least one team going to Tallangatta for a three person Ambrose.

If anyone else is interested let Dylan know and we will try and send another team.

At Beechworth there will be a stableford event.

Upcoming Sunday golf: 18 May Tallangatta three person ambrose.

Stableford at Beechworth.

25 May NEDGA Sandgreen Championships at Bethanga.

Stableford at Beechworth.

1 June Rutherglen tournament.

Stableford at Beechworth.

8 June Monthly medal.

Golf at Beechworth will be 11:30 arrival for 12noon hitoff each Sunday.

If anyone would like to play in any of the other club tournaments let Dylan know.

FROM DOWNTOWN: Rod Shaw putts for the green during a round at Beechworth.

Before you know it, your e-scooter is on fire.

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Page 10 - THE ADVERTISER, Friday, May 16, 2025

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DEATH NOTICES

KING, James (Jimmy, Jim).

13/2/1935 – 11/5/2025 Passed away peacefully at Myrtleford Lodge.

Loving husband of Lyn (dec).

Cherished Dad to Belinda (dec), Jamie and Jenny.

Beloved Poppy to Ebony and Luca.

Father-in-law to Maurice and Step Poppy to Jenna and Georgia.

Favourite son, brother, brother-in-law and uncle to the King family.

He built his life with steadfast might, A shining beacon, burning bright.

A father’s heart, a husband’s soul, A story told, making us whole.

We’ll carry on, with love and light, His memory will forever shine, so right.

Dad we can never thank you enough for the absolute, devotion, love and care you gave to Mum. May you rest easy now you are back with your adored Lyn and Belinda.

Special thanks to the team at the Myrtleford Lodge for their care and support to Dad over the years.

FUNERAL NOTICES

KING The Celebration of Life for the late James (Jimmy, Jim) King will be held at the Myrtleford Golf Club on Monday, May 19, 2025 at 1pm.

All welcome.

Notice of Annual General Meeting

Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 5.15pm (Board meeting) and 6pm (AGM).

The AGM for the 2024 financial year for Quercus Beechworth Inc. will be held at the Quercus Hall, 26-30 Ford Street, Beechworth.

All members of the Community are invited to attend the AGM. Light refreshments will be available at the conclusion of the meeting.

Agenda 1. Review and approval of minutes from the 2023 AGM 2. Chairperson’s address 3. Presentation of financial statements and Annual Report 4. Election of directors 5. Confirm the amount of the annual subscription for membership. Information about attending the AGM. Who can attend?

All full (over 18) and associate (under 18) members of Quercus Beechworth Inc. can attend the meeting. All members of the community may attend the AGM. Who can vote on agenda items?

Only financial members of Quercus Beechworth Inc. can vote on agenda items, including electing any new directors.

All attendees can ask questions at the meeting. If you would like to become a financial member you can access the member application form from the Quercus Beechworth website.

Who can stand for election to the board of management?

Only financial members are eligible for nomination and election to the board.

If you wish to nominate for a position on the board, please ensure that you have applied for membership first and then complete the nomination form for election to the board.

Nominations for board positions must be lodged at the Quercus Beechworth offices before May 21, 2025. https://quercusbeechworth.org.au/membership/

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Indigo Shire Council is inviting feedback on a number of key strategic documents that will shape our community’s future.

The following documents are now on public exhibition until 4 June:

CLASSIFIED GUIDELINES > CAR ADVERTISERS Private vendors of motor cars advertised for sale must include in their advertisement • Cash price of motor car • If car is registered, registration number • If unregistered, the engine number > PHOTOGRAPHS All photographs appearing in this issue that are taken by our photographers are available as reprints. > FOUND ADVERTISEMENTS All found advertisements are published free.

Simply provide the details of your find for publication. > PERSONAL ADVERTISERS • All personal photos submitted for printing in this issue must be collected within the next 4 weeks.

• All engagement and marriage notices must carry the signatures of BOTH parties, if under 18 the parents’ signatures as well.

• Birth notices require signatures > ADDITIONS • Bold heading • A various selection of logos are available. > INTERNET In lodging an advertisement with us you agree that we may publish the advertisement on our website. The general terms and condition that apply to publication apply also to publication of material on our website.

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How to view the documents: Online: www.engage.indigoshire.vic.gov.au Need assistance? Contact our Customer Experience Team on 1300 365 003

How to make a submission: Email: info@indigoshire.vic.gov.au (include the document name in your subject line) Post: Indigo Shire Council, PO Box 28, Beechworth 3747 Submissions close: 5pm Wednesday, 4 June 2025 All submissions will be considered at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday, 23 June 2025.

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QUALITY REPAIRS & SERVICE

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Young Beechworthian plays cricket in Indonesia Playing women’s cricket in Bali has been an incredible experience for 13-year-old Mary Edwards AN EXCITING chance to play cricket in Indonesia last month was a fabulous experience for a young 13-yearold Beechworthian.

Mary Edwards, a keen member of the Beechworth Wanderers Cricket Club played for the first time overseas in the Bali Bash T10 series representing the Philippines through her connection to the country.

The women’s tournament hosted, by Cricket Indonesia, drew teams from across the country, the Philippines and the Australian Indian Women’s Cricket Association.

Selected before Easter, Mary represented the Philippines women’s cricket team the Blue Caps - for its tour of Indonesia.

The young cricketer played in the annual Kartini Cup T20 International series comprising four teams from the East Asia Pacific zone - in Bali followed by the T10 Bali Bash tournament.

Eight teams from both international and regional East Asia Pacific squads competed in the tournament held between 8 and 18 April.

“I was really proud I could play with the team, took wickets and was ranked as number 36 out of 104 players which isn’t bad,” Mary said.

“I took a catch and bowled two people out.”

Mary said it was a very exciting feeling going to a different country to play the sport.

“The ground was different as well as the culture and it was really cool getting to know all of it, and the different people from various countries playing women’s cricket,” she said.

Mary’s mum Gina Edwards was born in the Philippines, meaning the young cricketer with dual nationality qualifies as a heritage player.

Gina, with a love of cricket too, had discovered the opportunity for her daughter which came to fruition.

BY CORAL COOKSLEY

ccooksley@ nemedia.com.au

Mary also plays in two state zones, the North East Knights and Riverina in Southern New South Wales with training for both held in Wodonga.

“Local club games are normally on Saturday mornings with the North East region and Riverina tournaments are held in the school holidays and doesn’t clash with club cricket,” Mary said.

The young player is notching up some incredible achievements in her cricket journey.

Mary inherited her passion for cricket from her dad, Simon Edwards, who also taught her how to play.

She also ranked number 34 in NSW country batting rankings during last year’s under 15 Youth Championship in Singleton.

At the end of last year she also competed in the under 16s Country Championship in Bathurst with eligibility exemptions to compete due to her age.

Mary was also selected for the Cricket Victoria Girls Leadership Program.

The young cricketer said she has played with the Wanderers Cricket Club for five years, progressing through the under 12s and 14s mixed teams and is a supporter of girls in cricket.

“The Wanderers really helped me get into it with everyone very supportive and now I really enjoy it,” she said.

“If girls in the area tried cricket, I’m sure they would like it as it’s a lot of fun.

“The club recently started a competition around this area for an all-girls team for DEDICATED: BEECHWORTH’S MARY EDWARDS BOWLS IN INDONESIA LAST MONTH. under 14s.”

Mary said she has a future aim to represent Australia CRICKET PASSION: Beechworth’s Mary Edwards had a great time representing the Philippines in Indonesia last month. playing internationally.

PHOTO: Coral Cooksley